The Transformation lock lens was a device invented by Tarantulas, based loosely on the ancient Transfixatron used by the Decepticons. It was a much smaller more portable variation (that is to say, it can fly). Initially used against Cheetor and Tigatron, the Predacons captured them to learn the reason for the Maximals construction a communication tower in their territory, subsequently learning that it was to try and send a signal to a Maximal probe that had entered the system. Determined to stop this, Megatron used the device to immobilize the other Maximals and destroy the tower, but Cheetor and Tigatron were able to escape and repair themselves in time to rescue their comrades and destroyed the lens. The Probe