Scale model
Physical model geometrically similar to a prototype for testing or display.
A scale model is a physical model that is geometrically similar to an object, known as the prototype. Scale models are generally smaller than large prototypes such as vehicles, buildings, or people, but may be larger than small prototypes such as anatomical structures or subatomic particles. They are used as tools in engineering design and testing, promotion and sales, filmmaking special effects, military strategy, and hobbies such as rail transport modeling, wargaming, and racing, as well as toys.
- definition
- Geometrically similar physical model of a prototype
- typical materials
- Plastic, wood, metal
- common paints
- Enamel, lacquer, acrylics
- construction methods
- Kit assembly, scratch building, collecting pre-assembled models
- types
- Static and animated
Lore & Background
Scale models are built to a defined ratio of any linear dimension of the model to the equivalent dimension on the full-size subject, expressed as a ratio with a colon (e.g., 1:8 scale) or as a fraction (1/8 scale). In English-speaking countries, scale is sometimes expressed as the number of feet on the prototype corresponding to one inch on the model, such as 1:48 scale meaning '1 inch to 4 feet'. Models are obtained by three means: kit assembly, scratch building, and collecting pre-assembled models. Scratch building requires the highest level of skill and craftsmanship, while kit assembly may be done 'out of the box' or with modifications known as kitbashing.
Reader's Guide
Scale models serve diverse purposes across many fields. In engineering, structural scale models are constructed observing the requirements of similitude to study problems too complicated for analytical or numerical techniques, such as reinforced concrete beam-column-slab interactions. Aerodynamic models are used for testing new aircraft designs in wind tunnels or in free flight. Architectural firms use models to sell designs to builders and investors, traditionally hand-made but now involving high-tech processes like laser cutters, CNC machines, and 3D printing. In filmmaking, before CGI, miniature models were used for visual effects, such as the Starship Enterprise models for Star Trek: The Original Series. Hobbyist models range from static display to operational features like rolling trains and flying airplanes. Manned ship models at 1:25 scale are used for research, engineering, and training in shiphandling. Military applications include plan-reliefs for visualizing fortifications and hand-made warship models for identification and instruction.
Did You Know?
- Scale models can be larger than small prototypes such as anatomical structures or subatomic particles.
- Manned models are scale models that can carry and be handled by at least one person on open water, usually at 1:25 scale.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a scale model in the modeling hobby?
It is a three-dimensional replica that keeps the same geometric proportions as a real-world object called the prototype. Depending on the subject, the model can be smaller than the original (vehicles, buildings) or even larger (anatomical structures, subatomic particles).
What materials and paints do scale modelers typically use?
Builders shape plastic, wood, or metal stock into their pieces and then finish them with enamel, lacquer, or acrylic paints. The workflow can be kit assembly, scratch building from raw materials, or simply collecting pre-assembled models.
What are the two main categories of scale models?
They split into static displays meant for viewing and animated models that include moving parts. Within each category, a modeler might assemble a boxed kit, build entirely from scratch, or purchase a finished product.
Beyond hobbies, what practical roles do scale models play?
Engineers use them to test design and aerodynamics, filmmakers build them for special-effects shots, and military planners rely on them for strategy visualization. They also appear in trade-show promotions, real-estate sales displays, and as children's toys.
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