Editing Scale model

{{Short description|Physical representation of an object}}
{{Use American English|date=April 2022}}

{{more citations needed|date=July 2022}}

[[File:Scale Model Of The Tower Of London In The Tower Of London.jpg|thumb|upright=1.35|A scale model of the [[Tower of London]]. This model can be found inside the tower.]]
[[File:Maqueta turbina hidroeléctrica.jpg|thumb|upright=1.35|A scale model of a [[hydropower]] turbine]]

A '''scale model''' is a [[physical model]] that is [[similarity (geometry)|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. Models built to the same [[Scale (ratio)|scale]] as the prototype are called ''[[mockup]]s''.

Scale models 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; and as toys. [[Model building]] is also pursued as a hobby for the sake of [[artisan]]ship.

Scale models are constructed of [[plastic]], wood, or metal. They are usually painted with [[enamel paint|enamel]], [[lacquer]], or [[acrylic paint|acrylic]]s.
Model prototypes include all types of vehicles (railroad trains, cars, trucks, military vehicles, aircraft, and spacecraft), buildings, people, and science fiction themes (spaceships and robots).

==Methods==
[[File:震電（実物大模型）.jpg|thumb|This full scale (1:1) model of a [[Kyushu J7W Shinden]] was built by [[Toho Studios]] for use in the 2023 film ''[[Godzilla Minus One]]''.]]
{{Main|Model building}}
Models are built to [[Scale (ratio)|scale]], defined as the ratio of any linear dimension of the model to the equivalent dimension on the full-size subject (called the "prototype"), expressed either as a ratio with a colon (ex. 1:8 scale), or as a fraction with a slash (1/8 scale). This designates that 1 length unit on the model represents 8 such units on the prototype. In English-speaking countries, the scale is sometimes expressed as the number of [[Foot (unit)|feet]] on the prototype corresponding to one [[inch]] on the model, e.g. 1:48 scale = "1 inch to 4 feet", 1:96 = "1 inch to 8 feet", etc.

Models are obtained by three different means: [[plastic model|kit assembly]], [[scratch building]], and collecting pre-assembled models. Scratch building is the only option available to structural engineers, and among hobbyists requires the highest level of skill, craftsmanship, and time; scratch builders tend to be the most concerned with accuracy and detail.{{Citation needed|date=January 2014}} Kit assembly is done either "out of the box", or with modifications (known as "[[kitbashing]]"). Many kit manufacturers, for various reasons leave something to be desired in terms of accuracy, but using the kit parts as a baseline and adding after-market conversion kits, alternative decal sets, and some scratch building can correct this without the master craftsmanship or time expenditure required by scratch building.

==Purposes==
[[File:PIA scale model at display in Karachi Airport.jpg|thumb|right|A scale model of a [[Pakistan International Airlines]] [[Boeing 777]] on display at [[Jinnah International Airport]], [[Karachi]]]]
Scale models are generally of two types: ''static'' and ''animated''. They are used for several purposes in many fields, including:

===Hobby===
Most hobbyist's models are built for static display, but some have operational features, such as railroad trains that roll, and airplanes and [[model rocket|rocket]]s that fly. Flying airplane models may be simple unpowered gliders, or have sophisticated features such as [[radio-controlled aircraft|radio control]] powered by [[model engine|miniature methanol/nitromethane engines]].

====Slot car racing====
{{Main|Slot car racing}}
Cars in 1:24, 1:32, or HO scale are fitted with externally powered electric motors which run on plastic road track fitted with metal rails on slots. The track may or may not be augmented with miniature buildings, trees, and people.

====Wood car racing====
{{Main|Wood car racing}}
Children can build and race their own gravity-powered, uncontrolled cars carved out of a wood such as pine, with plastic wheels on metal axles, which run on inclined tracks.

The most famous wood racing event is the [[Boy Scouts of America]]'s annual [[Pinewood Derby]] which debuted in 1953. Entry is open to [[Cub Scouting (Boy Scouts of America)|Cub Scouts]]. Entrants are supplied with a kit containing a wooden block out of which to carve the body, four plastic wheels, and four axle nails; or they may purchase their own commercially available kit. Regulations generally limit the car's weight to {{convert|5|oz|g|1}}, width to {{convert|2.75|in|cm}}, and length to {{convert|7|in|cm|1}}. The rules permit the cars to be augmented with [[tungsten carbide]] weights up to the limit, and graphite axle lubricant.

====Wargaming====
{{Main|Miniature wargaming}}
Miniature wargames are played using miniature soldiers, artillery, vehicles, and scenery built by the players.

===Television and film production===
{{Main|Miniature effect}}
Before the advent of [[computer-generated imagery]] (CGI), visual effects of vehicles such as marine ships and spaceships were created by filming "miniature" models. These were considerably larger scale than hobby versions to allow inclusion of a high degree of surface detail, and electrical features such as interior lighting and animation. For ''[[Star Trek: The Original Series]]'', a {{convert|33|in|m|adj=on}} pre-production model of the [[Starship Enterprise|Starship ''Enterprise'']] was created in December 1964, mostly of pine, with Plexiglass and brass details, at a cost of $600.<ref name=":16">{{Cite journal|last=McCullars|first=William S.|date=2001|title=Enterprise '64, Part 1|journal=Star Trek Communicator|issue=132|pages=51}}</ref> This was followed by a {{convert|135.5|in|m|adj=on}} production model constructed from plaster, sheet metal, and wood, at ten times the cost of the first.{{sfn|Eaglemoss|2013|p=17}}{{sfn|Weitekamp|2016|p=5}} As the ''Enterprise'' was originally reckoned to be {{convert|947|ft|m}} long, this put the models at 1:344 and 1:83.9 scale respectively. The [[Polar Lights (models)|Polar Lights]] company sells a large plastic ''Enterprise'' model kit essentially the same size as the first TV model, in 1:350 scale (32 inches long). It can be purchased with an optional electronic lighting and animation (rotating engine domes) kit.

===Engineering===
====Structural ====
[[File:33) Load and Confinement box, U of Illinois (Urbana, IL) Alex.JPG|thumb|This is a load confinement box from the University of Illinois, UC Structural engineering lab. It can impart six degrees of freedom on structural scale models.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://ceephotos.karcor.com/?s=load+and+confinement+box |title=Civil Engineering Photos » Search Results » load and confinement box |access-date=2013-11-19 |archive-date=2013-12-13 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131213234147/http://ceephotos.karcor.com/?s=load+and+confinement+box |url-status=dead }}</ref>]]Although [[structural engineering]] has been a field of study for thousands of years and many of the great problems have been solved using analytical and numerical techniques, many problems are still too complicated to understand in an analytical manner or the current numerical techniques lack real world confirmation. When this is the case, for example a complicated reinforced concrete beam-column-slab interaction problem, scale models can be constructed observing the requirements of similitude to study the problem. Many structural labs exist to test these structural scale models such as the Newmark Civil Engineering Laboratory at the University of Illinois, UC.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://cee.illinois.edu/portalresearch_facilities |title=Research Facilities &#124; Civil and Environmental Engineering at Illinois |access-date=2013-11-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131020021818/http://cee.illinois.edu/portalresearch_facilities |archive-date=2013-10-20 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

For structural engineering scale models, it is important for several specific quantities to be scaled according to the theory of similitude. These quantities can be broadly grouped into three categories: loading, geometry, and material properties. A good reference for considering scales for a structural scale model under static loading conditions in the elastic regime is presented in Table 2.2 of the book ''Structural Modeling and Experimental Techniques''.<ref>Harris, H., et al. 1999, p. 62</ref>

Structural engineering scale models can use different approaches to satisfy the similitude requirements of scale model fabrication and testing. A practical introduction to scale model design and testing is discussed in the paper "Pseudodynamic Testing of Scaled Models".<ref>Kumar, et al. 1997, p. 1</ref>

====Aerodynamic====
{{Main|Aerodynamics}}
Aerodynamic models may be used for testing new aircraft designs in a [[wind tunnel]] or in free flight. Models of scale large enough to permit piloting may be used for testing of a proposed design.

====Architectural====
{{Main|Architectural model}}

[[File:China Schweinestall Linden-Museum.jpg|thumb|[[Han dynasty]] pottery model of a pig pen]]

Architecture firms usually employ model makers or contract model making firms to make models of projects to sell their designs to builders and investors. These models are traditionally hand-made, but advances in technology have turned the industry into a very high tech process than can involve Class IV [[Laser cutting|laser cutters]], five-axis [[Numerical control|CNC machines]] as well as rapid prototyping or [[3D printing]]. Typical scales are 1:12, 1:24, 1:48, 1:50, 1:100, 1:200, 1:500, etc.

===Advertising and sales ===
{{empty section|date=January 2025}}

=== Military ===
{{Main|Plan-relief}}
[[Image:Modeltown2006.JPG|thumb|right|Model ships and castle]]

With elements similar to [[miniature wargaming]], [[building model]]s and [[architectural model]]s, a plan-relief is a means of geographical representation in relief as a scale model for military use, to visualize building projects on fortifications or campaigns involving fortifications.

In the first half of the 20th century, navies used hand-made models of warships for identification and instruction in a variety of scales. That of 1:500 was called "teacher scale." Besides models made in 1:1200 and 1:2400 scales, there were also ones made to 1:2000 and 1:5000. Some, made in [[UK|Britain]], were labelled "1 inch to 110 feet", which would be 1:1320 scale, but are not necessarily accurate.

==== Manned ships ====
{{Main|Port Revel}}
Many research workers, hydraulics specialists and engineers have used scale models for over a century, in particular in towing tanks. Manned models are small scale [[Ship model|models]] that can carry and be handled by at least one person on an open expanse of water. They must behave just like real ships, giving the shiphandler the same sensations. Physical conditions such as wind, currents, waves, water depths, channels, and berths must be reproduced realistically.

Manned models are used for research (e.g. ship behaviour), engineering (e.g. port layout) and for [[Port Revel|training in shiphandling]] (e.g. [[maritime pilot]]s, masters and [[officer]]s). They are usually at 1:25 scale.

==Materials==
Models, and their constituent parts, can be built out of a variety of materials, such as:

===Plastic===
This includes [[injection molding|injection molded]] or extruded plastics such as [[polystyrene]], [[acrylonitrile butadiene styrene]] (ABS), [[butyrate]],  and clear acrylic and [[copolyester]] ([[PETG]]). Parts can also be [[casting|cast]] from [[synthetic resin]]s.

===Wood===
[[Pine]] wood is sometimes used; [[balsa wood]], a light wood, is good for flying airplane models.

===Metal===
Aluminum or brass can be used in tubing form, or can be used in flat sheets with [[photoengraving|photo-etched]] surface detail. Model figures used in wargaming can be made of [[white metal]].

===Glue===
Styrene parts are welded together using [[butanone|plastic cement]], which comes both in a thick form to be carefully applied to a bonding surface, or in a thin liquid which is applied into a joint by [[capillary action]] using a brush or syringe needle. [[Ethyl cyanoacrylate]] (ECA) aka "super-glue", or fast-setting [[epoxy]], must be used to bond styrene to other materials.

===Paint===
Glossy colors are generally used for car and commercial truck exteriors. Flat colors are generally desirable for military vehicles, aircraft, and spacecraft. Metallic colors simulate the various metals (silver, gold, aluminum, steel, copper, brass, etc.)

[[Enamel paint]] has classically been used for model making and is generally considered the most durable paint for plastics. It is available in small bottles for brushing and [[airbrushing]], and [[aerosol paint|aerosol spray cans]]. Disadvantages include toxicity and a strong chemical smell of the paint and its mineral spirit [[paint thinner|thinner]]/brush cleaner. Modern enamels are made of [[alkyd resin]] to limit toxicity. Popular brands include [[Testor Corporation|Testor]]'s in the US and [[Humbrol]] (now [[Hornby Railways|Hornby]]) in the UK.

[[Lacquer]] paint produces a hard, durable finish, and requires its own [[lacquer thinner]].

Enamels have been generally replaced in popularity by [[acrylic paint]], which is water-based. Advantages include decreased toxicity and chemical smell, and brushes clean with soap and water. Disadvantages include possibly limited durability on plastic, requiring priming coats, at least two color coats, and allowing adequate cure time. Popular brands include the Japanese import [[Tamiya Corporation|Tamiya]].

Some beginner's level kits avoid the necessity to paint the model by adding [[pigment]]s and [[Chrome plating#Automotive use|chrome plating]] to the plastic.

===Decals===
[[Decal]]s are generally applied to models after painting and assembly, to add details such as lettering, flags, insignia, or other decorations too small to paint. Water transfer (slide-on) decals are generally used, but beginner's kits may use [[dry transfer]] stickers instead.

==Subjects==
===Vehicles===
====Trains====
[[Image:HO Layout 1.jpg|thumb|right|An [[HO scale]] [[model railroad]]]]
[[Image:Virginia Farmlands Rwy 2 SW8 @ Doorstown 6-17-2007.JPG|thumb|right|An [[N scale]] locomotive]]
[[Image:Livesteamtrain.jpg|thumb|A propane fired 1:8 scale [[live steam]] train running on the [[Finnish Railway Museum]]'s miniature track]]
{{Main|Rail transport modelling}}
Model railroading (US and Canada; known as ''railway modelling'' in UK, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland) is done in a variety of scales from 1:4 to 1:450 ([[T scale]]). Each scale has its own strengths and weaknesses, and fills a different niche in the hobby:
* The largest scales are used outdoors, for "[[Live steam]]" railroads with trains large enough for people to ride on, as much as {{convert|3|m|ft|sp=us}} longs are built in several scales  such as 1-1/2", 1", and 3/4 inches to the foot. Common gauges are 7-1/2" (Western US) and 7-1/4" (Eastern US & rest of the world), 5", and 4-3/4". Smaller live steam gauges do exist, but as the scale gets smaller, pulling power decreases. One of the smallest gauges on which a live steam engine can pull a passenger is the now almost defunct {{frac|2|1|2}}-inch gauge.
* The next largest scale range, [[G scale]] (1:22.5) in the US and [[16 mm scale]] (1:19.05) in the UK, and as large as 1:12 scale, is too small for riding but is used for outdoor [[garden railway]]s, which allow use of natural [[landscaping]]. G scale is also sometimes used indoors, with the track mounted adjacent to walls at eye level of standing adults. A franchise chain of restaurants and [[coffeehouse]]s named [[Výtopna]] in the [[Czech Republic]] acquired a trademark for the use of G-scale trains mounted on the countertops to serve customers beverages, and pick up their orders and empty glasses.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.reuters.com/video/2011/12/29/model-train-delivers-restaurant-drinks?videoId=227620002 | title=Model train delivers restaurant drinks | publisher=[[Reuters]] | access-date=7 December 2013}}</ref><ref>[http://www.fodors.com/world/europe/czech-republic/prague/review-591689.html Vytopna Prague Review | Fodor's<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref name="RadioPrague">{{cite web | url=http://www.radio.cz/en/section/spotlight/pragues-vytopna-restaurant-a-hit-with-families-tourists-train-fans | title=Prague's Výtopna restaurant a hit with families, tourists & train fans | publisher=[[Radio Prague]] | date=March 14, 2012 | access-date=7 December 2013 | author=Velinger, Jan}}</ref>
* Smaller scales are used indoors. [[O scale]] (1:48) sets were introduced as early "toy trains" by companies such as [[Lionel Corporation]], but has developed a following among serious adult hobbyists. [[American Flyer]] purchased by [[A. C. Gilbert Company]] popularized [[S scale]] (1:64) trains starting in 1946. Even smaller scales have become the most popular, allowing larger, more complex layouts to be built in smaller spaces. Dedicated model railroaders often mount indoor layouts on homemade plywood tables, at a height in the range of {{convert|30|to|42|in|cm}}, putting the track optimally close to eye level for children or adults.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2014-01-07 |title=Benchwork |url=https://www.nmra.org/beginner/benchwork |access-date=2022-04-27 |website=National Model Railroad Association |language=en}}</ref> As of 2022, the two most popular sizes are [[HO scale]] (1:87) and [[N scale]] (1:160).<ref name=RMC2016>{{cite web| url=http://rrmodelcraftsman.com/model-train-scale-gauge/| title=Model Train Scale and Gauge| website=Railroad Model Craftsman| publisher=White River Productions| date=December 25, 2016| access-date=May 3, 2020}}</ref>
{| class="wikitable"
|+ Model railroad scales
!Name
!Scale
!Standard
gauge
!Narrow
gauge
!Use
|-
|T
|1:450
|
|
|Indoor
|-
|ZZ
|1:300
|
|
|Indoor
|-
|Z
|1:220
|
|
|Indoor
|-
|N
|1:160
|
| 9&nbsp;mm
|Indoor
|-
|2mm
|1:152
|
|
|Indoor
|-
|[[TT scale|TT]]
|1:120
|12 mm
|
|Indoor
|-
|3mm
|1:101
|
|
|Indoor
|-
|HO
|1:87
|16.5&nbsp;mm
|
|Indoor
|-
|OO
|1:76.2
|16.5&nbsp;mm
|
|Indoor
|-
|S
|1:64
|
|
|Indoor
|-
|O
|1:48
|
|
|Indoor
|-
|1
|1:32
|44.45
|
|Garden;<br/> live steam
|-
|H
|1:24
|45&nbsp;mm
|
|Garden;<br/> live steam
|-
|G
|1:22.5
|45&nbsp;mm
|
|Garden;<br/> live steam
|-
| 
|1:12
|
|
|Garden;<br/> live steam
|-
| 
|1:4
|
|
|Live steam
|}

=====Gauge vs scale=====
Model railroads originally used the term ''[[Rail gauge|gauge]]'', which refers to the distance between the [[Rail tracks|rail]]s, just as full-size [[Rail transport|railroads]] continue to do. Although model railroads were also built to different gauges, [[standard gauge]] in full-size railroads is 4' 8.5". Therefore, a model railroad reduces that standard to scale. An HO scale model railroad runs on track that is 1/87 of 4' 8.5", or 0.649" from rail to rail. Today model railroads are more typically referred to using the term ''scale'' instead of "gauge" in most usages.

Confusion arises from indiscriminate use of "scale" and "gauge" synonymously. The word "scale" strictly refers to the proportional size of the model, while "gauge" strictly applies to the measurement between the inside faces of the rails. It is completely incorrect to refer to the mainstream scales as "HO gauge", "N gauge, "Z gauge", etc. This is further complicated by the fact some scales use several different gauges; for example, HO scale uses 16.5&nbsp;mm as the standard gauge of {{RailGauge|ussg}}, 12&nbsp;mm to represent {{RailGauge|1000mm}} gauge (HOm), and {{RailGauge|3ft6in}} (HOn3-1/2), and 9&nbsp;mm to represent a prototype gauge of {{RailGauge|2ft}}.

The most popular scale to go with a given gauge was often arrived at through the following roundabout process: German artisans would take strips of metal of standard metric size to construct their products from blueprints dimensioned in inches. "Four mm to the foot" yielded the 1:76.2 size of the British "OO scale", which is anomalously used on the standard HO/OO scale (16.5&nbsp;mm gauge from 3.5&nbsp;mm/foot scale) tracks, because early electric motors weren't available commercially in smaller sizes. Today, most scale sizes are internationally standardized, with the notable exceptions of [[O scale]] and N scale.

There are three different versions of the "O" scale, each of which uses tracks of 32&nbsp;mm for the standard gauge. The American version follows a dollhouse scale of 1:48, sometimes called "quarter-gauge" as in "one-quarter-inch to the foot". The British version continued the pattern of sub-contracting to Germans, so, at 7&nbsp;mm to the foot, it works out to a scale of 1:43.5. Later, the European authority of model railroad firms [[MOROP]] declared that the "O" gauge (still 32&nbsp;mm) must use the scale of 1:45, to allow wheel, [[railway tire|tire]], and [[splasher]] clearance for smaller than realistic curved sections.

N scale trains were first commercially produced at 1:160 scale in 1962 by the [[Arnold (models)|Arnold company]] of [[Nuremberg]].<ref>{{cite web| url=https://www.hornby.com/uk-en/shop/brands/arnold-n-1-160.html| title=The German pioneer of N gauge| website=Hornby Arnold| publisher=Hornby Hobbies| access-date=May 3, 2020}}</ref><ref name=RMC2016/> This standard size was imported to the US by firms such as the [[Aurora Plastics Corporation]]. However, the early N-scale motors would not fit in the smaller models of British locomotives, so the [[British N gauge]] was standardized to allow a slightly larger body size. Similar sizing problems with Japanese prototypes led to adoption of a 1:150 scale standard there. Since space is more limited in Japanese houses, N scale has become more popular there than HO scale.

====Aircraft====
{{Main|Model aircraft}}
[[File:Koottava DC3.JPG|thumb|Scale model of a [[Douglas DC-3]] in [[Finnair|Finnair Airlines]] colors. Many airlines use model aircraft as advertisement items]]
[[Static model aircraft]] are commonly built using plastic, but wood, metal, card and paper can also be used. Models are sold painted and assembled, painted but not assembled ([[snap-fit]]), or unpainted and not assembled. The most popular types of aircraft to model are commercial airliners and military aircraft. Popular aircraft scales are, in order of increasing size: [[1:144 scale|1:144]], [[HO scale|1:87 (also known as HO, or "half-O scale")]], [[1:72 scale|1:72]] (the most numerous), [[1:48 scale|1:48 (known as "O scale")]], [[1:32 scale|1:32]], [[1:24 scale|1:24]], [[1:16]], 1:6, and [[1:4]]. Some European models are available at more metric scales such as [[1:50 scale|1:50]]. The highest quality models are made from injection molded plastic or [[resin casting|cast resin]]. Models made from [[Vacuum forming|Vacuum formed]] plastic are generally for the more skilled builder. More inexpensive models are made from heavy [[Paper plane|paper]] or card stock. Ready-made die-cast metal models are also very popular. As well as the traditional scales, die-cast models are available in [[1:200 scale|1:200]], [[1:250 scale|1:250]], [[1:350 scale|1:350]], [[1:400 scale|1:400]], [[1:500 scale|1:500]] and [[1:600 scale]].

The majority of aircraft modelers concern themselves with depiction of real-life aircraft, but there are some modelers who 'bend' history by modeling aircraft that either never actually flew or existed, or by painting them in a color scheme that did not actually exist. This is commonly referred to as 'What-if' or 'Alternative' modeling, and the most common theme is 'Luftwaffe 1946' or 'Luftwaffe '46'. This theme stems from the idea of modeling German secret projects that never saw the light of day due to the close of World War II. This concept has been extended to include British, Russian, and US experimental projects that never made it into production.

[[File:Alaska Airlines plane model.JPG|thumb|Scale down model of Alaska Airlines]]
Flying model aircraft are built for aerodynamic research and for recreation ([[aeromodeling]]).

Recreational models are often made to resemble some real type. However the aerodynamic requirements of a small model are different from those of a full-size craft, so flying models are seldom fully accurate to scale. Flying model aircraft are one of three types: [[Free flight (model aircraft)|free flight]], [[control line]], and [[Radio-controlled aircraft|radio controlled]]. Some flying model kits take many hours to put together, and some kits are [[Almost Ready to Fly|almost ready to fly]] or [[ready to Fly (radio control)|ready to fly]].

====Rockets and spacecraft====
{{Main|Model rocket}}

Model rocketry dates back to the [[Space Race]] of the 1950s. The first [[Model rocket#Model rocket motors|model rocket engine]] was designed in 1954 by [[Orville Carlisle]], a licensed [[pyrotechnics]] expert, and his brother Robert, a model airplane enthusiast.<ref name=pyroguide>{{cite web |url=http://www.pyroguide.com/index.php?title=Black_powder_rocket |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070905045721/http://www.pyroguide.com/index.php?title=Black_powder_rocket |url-status=dead |archive-date=2007-09-05 |title=Rocket (Black Powder) |publisher=PyroGuide |date=2010-04-10 |access-date=2012-07-06 }}</ref>

Static model rocket kits began as a development of model aircraft kits, yet the scale of 1:72 [V.close to 4&nbsp;mm.::1foot] never caught on. Scales 1:48 and 1:96 are most frequently used. There are some rockets of scales 1:128, [[1:144]], and [[1:200 scale|1:200]], but Russian firms put their large rockets in 1:288. [[Heller SA]] offers some models in the scale of 1:125.

[[Science fiction]] space ships are heavily popular in the modeling community. In 1966, with the release of the television show ''[[Star Trek: The Original Series]]'', AMT corporation released an {{convert|18|in|cm|adj=on}} model of the [[Starship Enterprise|Starship ''Enterprise'']]. This has been followed over the decades by a complete array of various starships, [[shuttlecraft]], and [[space station]]s from the ''Star Trek'' franchise. The 1977 release of the first ''[[Star Wars (film)|Star Wars]]'' film and the 1978 TV series ''[[Battlestar Galactica (1978 TV series)|Battlestar Galactica]]'' also spawned lines of licensed model kits in scales ranging from 1:24 for fighters and smaller ships, to 1:1000, 1:1400, and 1:2500 for most main franchise ships, and up to 1:10000 for the larger ''Star Wars'' ships (for especially objects like the [[Death Star]]s and [[Super Star Destroyer]]s, even smaller scales are used). Finemolds in Japan have recently released a series of high quality injection molded [[Star Wars|''Star Wars'' kits]] in [[1:72 scale|1:72]], and this range is supplemented by [[resin kit]]s from [[Fantastic Plastic Models|Fantastic Plastic]].

====Cars====
{{Main|Model car}}
[[Image:ScaleCarComparison.jpg|thumb|right|L to R with {{convert|12|in|adj=on}} ruler at bottom: 1:64 [[Matchbox (brand)|Matchbox]] [[Chevrolet Tahoe]], 1:43 [[Ford F-100]], 1:25 Revell Monogram 1999 [[Ford Mustang Cobra]], 1:18 [[Bburago]] 1987 [[Ferrari F40]]]]
Although the British scale for [[0 gauge]] was first used for [[model car]]s made of rectilinear and circular parts, it was the origin of the European scale for cast or injection molded model cars. MOROP's specification of 1:45 scale for European 0 does not alter the series of cars in [[1:43 scale]], as it has the widest distribution in the world.

In America, a series of cars was developed from at first cast metal and later styrene models ("promos") offered at new-car dealerships to drum up interest. The firm [[Revell|Monogram]], and later [[Tamiya Corporation|Tamiya]], first produced them in a scale derived from the Architect's scale: [[1:24 scale]], while the firms [[Aluminum Metal Toys|AMT]], [[Jo-Han]], and [[Revell]] chose the scale of 1:25. Monogram later switched to this scale after the firm was purchased by Revell. Some cars are also made in [[1:32 scale]], and rolling toys are often made on the scale [[1:64 scale]]. Chinese die-cast manufacturers have introduced 1/72 scale into their range. The smaller scales are usually die-cast cars and not the in the class as model cars. Except in rare occasions, Johnny Lightning and Ertl-made die-cast cars were sold as kits for buyers to assemble. [[Model car]]s are also used in [[car design]].

====Buses and trucks====
Typically found in [[1:50 scale]], most manufacturers of commercial vehicles and [[heavy equipment]] commission scale models made of die-cast metal as promotional items to give to prospective customers. These are also popular children's toys and collectibles. The major manufacturers of these items are [[Conrad (company)|Conrad]] and [[NZG Models|NZG]] in Germany. [[Corgi Toys|Corgi]] also makes some 1:50 models, as well as Dutch maker [[Tekno (toy manufacturer)|Tekno]].

Trucks are also found as diecast models in [[1:43 scale]] and injection molded kits (and children's toys) in [[1:24 scale]]. Recently some manufacturers have appeared in [[1:64 scale]] like [[Code 3 Collectibles|Code 3]].[[Image:1-64 Scale.jpg|[[1:64 scale]] die-cast trucks|alt=|center|frame]]

====Construction vehicles====
[[Image:Model construction vehicles 1 50 scale.jpg|thumb|right]]

A [[model construction vehicle]] (or [[engineering vehicle]]) is a scale model or [[die-cast toy]] that represents a construction vehicle such as a [[bulldozer]], [[excavator]], [[crane (machine)|crane]], [[concrete pump]], [[backhoe]], etc.

Construction vehicle models are almost always made in [[1:50 scale]], particularly because the cranes at this scale are often three to four feet tall when extended and larger scales would be unsuited for display on a desk or table. These models are popular as children's toys in [[Germany]]. In the US they are commonly sold as promotional models for new construction equipment, commissioned by the manufacturer of the prototype real-world equipment. The major manufacturers in Germany are Conrad and NZG, with some competition from Chinese firms that have been entering the market.

=== Robots ===
{{Main|Model robot}}
Japanese firms have marketed toys and models of what are often called [[mecha]], nimble humanoid fighting robots. The robots, which appear in animated shows ([[anime]]), are often depicted at a size between 15-20m in height, and so scales of 1:100 and [[1:144]] are common for these subjects, though other scales such as [[1:72]] are commonly used for [[robot]]s and related subjects of different size.

The most prolific manufacturer of [[mecha]] models is [[Bandai]], whose [[gunpla|Gundam kit lines]] were a strong influence in the genre in the 1980s. Even today, Gundam kits are the most numerous in the mecha modeling genre, usually with dozens of new releases every year. The features of modern [[Gundam model|Gundam]] kits, such as color molding and [[Snap-fit|snap-fit construction]], have become the standard expectations for other mecha model kits.

Due to the fantasy nature of most anime robots, and the necessary simplicity of cel-animated designs, mecha models lend themselves well to stylized work, improvisations, and simple [[Scratch building|scratchbuilds]]. One of [[Gundam]]'s contributions to the genre was the use of a gritty wartime backstory as a part of the fantasy, and so it is almost equally fashionable to build the robots in a weathered, beaten style, as would often be expected for [[Armoured fighting vehicle|AFV]] kits as to build them in a more stylish, pristine manner.

=== Live action figures ===
{{See also|Model figure}}
Scale models of people and animals are found in a wide variety of venues, and may be either single-piece objects or kits that must be assembled, usually depending on the purpose of the model. For instance, models of people as well as both domestic and wild animals are often produced for display in model cities or railroads to provide a measure of detail or realism, and scaled relative to the trains, buildings, and other accessories of a certain line of models. If a line of trains or buildings does not feature models of living creatures, those who build the models often buy these items separately from another line so they can feature people or animals. In other cases, scale model lines feature living creatures exclusively, often focusing on educational interests.

Model kits of [[superhero]]es and [[super-villain]]s from popular franchises such as [[DC Entertainment]] and [[Marvel Entertainment]] are also sold, as are models of real-world celebrities, such as [[Marilyn Monroe]] and  [[Elvis Presley]].

One type of assembly kit sold as educational features skeletons and anatomical structure of humans and animals. Such kits may have unique features such as glow-in-the-dark pieces. Dinosaurs are a popular subject for such models. There are also [[garage kit]]s, which are often figures of [[anime]] characters in multiple parts that require assembly.

=== Ships and naval war-gaming ===
[[Image:Pendon's Madderport.JPG|thumb|right|[[Pendon Museum]]'s model of Madderport]]
[[Image:Zinnschiffe.jpg|thumb|right|[[1:1250 scale]] [[die-cast model]]s of ships]]
[[File:Scale down Model of Madagascar ship displayed at Surat castle (fort).jpg|thumb|upright|Scale down Model of Madagascar ship displayed at Surat castle (fort)]]
{{Main|Ship model}}
Michele Morciano says small scale ship models were produced in about 1905 linked to the wargaming rules and other publications of [[Fred T. Jane]]. The company that standardized on 1:1200 was [[Bassett-Lowke]] in 1908. The British Admiralty subsequently contracted with Bassett-Lowke and other companies and individual craftsmen to produce large numbers of recognition models, to this scale, in 1914–18.<ref>{{cite book| first=Michele |last=Morciano|title=Classic Waterline Ship Models in the 1:1200/1250 scale|publisher= self published|location=Rome|year= 2003| page= 5}}</ref>

Just before the Second World War, the American naval historian (and [[science fiction]] author) [[Fletcher Pratt]] published a book on naval wargaming as could be done by civilians using [[ship model]]s cut off at the [[waterline]] to be moved on the floors of basketball courts and similar locales. The scale he used was non-standard (reported as 1:666), and may have been influenced by toy ships then available, but as the hobby progressed, and other rule sets came into use, it was progressively supplemented by the series 1:600, 1:1200, and 1:2400. In Britain, 1:3000 became popular and these models also have come into use in the USA. These had the advantage of approximating the [[nautical mile]] as 120&nbsp;inches, 60&nbsp;inches, and 30&nbsp;inches, respectively. As the [[knot (unit)|knot]] is based on this mile and a 60-minute hour, this was quite handy.

After the war, firms emerged to produce models from the same white metal used to make toy soldiers. [[Lines Bros|Lines Bros. Ltd]], a British firm, offered a tremendously wide range of waterline merchant and naval [[ship]]s as well as dockyard equipment in the scale 1:1200 which were die-cast in [[Zamak]]. In the US, at least one manufacturer, of the wartime 1:1200 recognition models, Comet, made them available for the civilian market postwar, which also drove the change to this scale. In addition, continental European manufacturers and European ship book publishers had adopted the 1:1250 drawing scale because of its similar convenience in size for both models and comparison drawings in books.

A prestige scale for [[boat]]s, comparable to that of 1:32 for fighter planes, is 1:72, producing huge models, but there are very few kits marketed in this scale. There are now several clubs around the world for those who choose to scratch-build radio-controlled model ships and submarines in 1:72, which is often done because of the compatibility with naval aircraft kits. For the smaller ships, plank-on-frame or other wood construction kits are offered in the traditional shipyard scales of 1:96, 1:108, or 1:192 (half of 1:96). In injection-molded plastic kits, [[Airfix]] makes full-hull models in the scale the [[Royal Navy]] has used to compare the relative sizes of ships: 1:600. [[Revell]] makes some kits to half the scale of the US Army standard: 1:570. Some American and foreign firms have made models in a proportion from the Engineer's scale: "one-sixtieth-of-an-inch-to-the-foot", or 1:720.

[[Image:Japanese destroyer Harusame scale model.jpg|thumb|right|[[1:700 scale|1:700]] scale [[Japanese destroyer Harusame (1935)]] plastic model kit released by Tamiya]]

=== Tanks and wargaming ===
[[Image:Lancaster1.jpg|thumb|right|[[American Civil War]] miniature battle at the [[Historical Miniatures Gaming Society]] "Cold Wars" convention in [[Lancaster, Pennsylvania|Lancaster]], PA]]
[[File:Scale Model Abrams.jpg|thumb|Scale model tank]]
{{Main|Model military vehicle|Miniature wargaming}}
Early in the 20th century, the British historian and science fiction author [[H. G. Wells]] published a book, ''[[Little Wars]]'', on how to play at [[battle]]s in miniature. His books use 2" lead figures,<ref>{{cite book| first=H.G.|last=Wells|title=LittleWars|publisher= Frank Palmer|location=London|year= 1913| page= 61 "The soldiers used should all be of one size. The best British makers have standardized sizes, and sell infantry and cavalry in exactly proportioned dimension; the infantry being nearly two inches tall. There is a lighter, cheaper make of perhaps an inch and a half that is also available. Foreign-made soldiers are of variable sizes"}}</ref> particularly those manufactured by [[Britains (toy brand)|Britains]]. His fighting system employed spring-loaded [[model gun]]s that shot [[match]]sticks.

This use of physical mechanisms was echoed in the later games of Fred Jane, whose rules required throwing darts at ship silhouettes; his collection of data on the world's fleets was later published and became renowned. Dice have largely replaced this toy mayhem for consumers.

For over a century, toy soldiers were made of [[white metal]], a lead-based alloy, often in architect's scale-based ratios in the English-speaking countries, and called [[tin soldier]]s. After the Second World War, such toys were on the market for children but now made of a safe [[plastic]] softer than [[styrene]]. American children called these "[[army men]]". Many sets were made in the new scale of [[1:40 scale|1:40]]. A few styrene model kits of land equipment were offered in this and in 1:48 and 1:32 scales. However, these were swept away by the number of kits in the scale of [[1:35]].

Those who continued to develop [[miniature wargaming]] preferred smaller scale models, the soldiers still made of soft plastic. Airfix particularly wanted people to buy [[1:76 scale|1:76]] scale soldiers and tanks to go with "00" gauge train equipment. [[Roco (model railroads)|Roco]] offered [[1:87]] scale styrene military vehicles to go with "HO" gauge model houses. However, although there is no [[1:72 scale|1:72]] scale model railroad, more toy soldiers are now offered in this scale because it is the same as the popular aircraft scale. The number of fighting vehicles in this scale is also increasing, although the number of [[auxiliary vehicle]]s available is far fewer than in [[1:87 scale]].

A more recent development, especially in wargaming of land battles, is 15&nbsp;mm white metal miniatures, often referred to as 1:100. The use of 15&nbsp;mm scale metals has grown quickly since the early 1990s as they allow a more affordable option over 28&nbsp;mm if large battles are to be refought, or a large number of vehicles represented. The rapid rise in the detail and quality of castings at 15&nbsp;mm scale has also helped to fuel their uptake by the [[wargaming]] community.

Armies use smaller scales still. The US Army specifies models of the scale 1:285 for its [[sand table]] wargaming. There are metal ground vehicles and helicopters in this scale, which is a near "one-quarter-inch-to-six-feet" scale. The continental powers of [[NATO]] have developed the similar scale of 1:300, even though metric standardizers really don't like any divisors other than factors of 10, 5, and 2, so maps are not commonly offered in Europe in scales with a'' "3" ''in the denominator.

Consumer [[wargaming]] has since expanded into [[fantasy]] realms, employing scales large enough to be painted in imaginative detail - so called "heroic" 28&nbsp;mm figures, (roughly [[1:64 scale]]). Firms that produce these make small production lots of [[white metal]].

Alternatively to the commercial models, some [[modeler]]s also tend to use scraps to achieve home-made warfare models. While it doesn't always involve wargaming, some modelers insert realistic procedures, enabling a certain realism such as firing guns or shell deflection on small scale models.

=== Engines ===
[[Model building|Kits]] for building an engine model are available, especially for kids. The most popular are the [[Internal combustion engine|internal combustion]], [[Steam engine|steam]], [[Jet engine|jet]], and [[Stirling engine|Stirling model engine]]. Usually they move using an [[electric motor]] or a [[Crank (mechanism)|hand crank]], and many of them have a transparent case to show the internal process in action.

=== Buildings ===
{{Main|Building model}}
[[Image:Layoutinsuffolkva.JPG|right|thumb|Model building for an [[HO scale]] railroad]]
[[Image:FR Petersburg, sobor Wladimirski, in, makieta, 2013.08.22, fot. I. Nowicka (5) CORR.jpg|right|thumb|Scale model of the Vladimirskaya Church in Saint Petersburg]]

Most hobbyists who build models of buildings do so as part of a [[diorama]] to enhance their other models, such as a [[model railroading|model railroad]] or model war machines. As a stand-alone hobby, building models are probably most popular among enthusiasts of construction toys such as [[Erector]], [[Lego]] and [[K'Nex]]. Famous landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Big Ben and the White House are common subjects. Standard scales have not emerged in this hobby. Model railroaders use railroad scales for their buildings: [[HO scale]] (1:87), OO scale (1:76), [[N scale]] (1:160), and [[O scale]] (1:43). Lego builders use [[Legoland|miniland]] scale (1:20), [[minifigure|minifig]] scale (1:48), and micro scale (1:192)<ref group=note>In the Lego community, micro scale can refer to anything smaller than minifig scale (1:48), but 1:192 is occasionally set as a standard micro scale. This ratio is arrived at by scaling a person (6 feet) to the height of a Lego brick (3/8 inches). See {{ cite book|title=The Unofficial LEGO Builder's Guide|first= Alan |last=Bedford|publisher=No Starch Press|year=2005}}</ref> Generally, the larger the building, the smaller the scale. Model buildings are commonly made from plastic, foam, balsa wood or paper. [[Card model]]s are published in the form of a book, and some models are manufactured like 3-D puzzles. Professionally, building models are used by architects and salesmen.

====House portrait====
{{Main|Model house}}
Typically found in [[1:50 scale]] and also called [[model house]], model home or display house, this type of model is usually found in stately homes or specially designed houses. Sometimes this kind of model is commissioned to mark a special date like an anniversary or the completion of the architecture, or these models might be used by salesmen selling homes in a new neighborhood.

=== Miniatures in contemporary art ===
[[Image:asylum 2005.jpg|thumb|right|upright|[[Daniel Dorall]], ''Asylum'', 2005, cardboard, sand, hydrocryl, plastic, 20 × 10 × 4 cm]]
[[Miniature model (gaming)|Miniatures]] and model kits are used in contemporary art whereby artists use both scratch built miniaturizations or commercially manufactured model kits to construct a dialogue between object and viewer. The role of the artist in this type of miniature is not necessarily to re-create an historical event or achieve naturalist realism, but rather to use scale as a mode of articulation in generating conceptual or theoretical exploration. Political, conceptual, and architectural examples are provided by noted artists such as [[Bodys Isek Kingelez]], [[Jake and Dinos Chapman]] (otherwise known as the Chapman Brothers), [[Ricky Swallow]], [[Shaun Wilson]], Sven Christoffersen, or the [[Psikhelekedana]] artists from [[Mozambique]], [[James Casebere]], [[Oliver Boberg]], and [[Daniel Dorall]].

== See also ==
{{Portal|Engineering}}
* [[Autofest City]]
* [[Computer-aided design]]
* [[Cutaway drawing]]
* [[International Plastic Modellers' Society]]
* [[Maquette]]
* [[Miniature faking]]
* [[Miniature figure (disambiguation)]]
* [[Miniature park]]
* [[Miniature pioneering]]
* [[Rail transport modelling scale standards]]
* [[Solar System model]]
* [[Standard gauge#Standard gauge in model railways|Standard gauge in model railways]]
* [[Similitude]]
* [[Terrain model]]
* [[List of scale model sizes]]
* [[List of scale-model industry people]]
* [[List of scale model kit manufacturers]]

==References and notes==
=== References ===
{{Reflist}}

=== Notes ===
{{Reflist|group=note}}

==References==
* {{cite book|last1=Crowe |first1=Clayton t.| last2=Elger |first2=Donald F. |last3=Williams |first3=Barbara C. |last4=Roberson |first4= John A. |title=Engineering Fluid Mechanics |year=2010 |publisher=John Wiley & Sons, Inc.| isbn=978-0-470-40943-5}}
* {{Citation|title=U.S.S. Enterprise NCC-1701 Refit|last=Eaglemoss|publisher=Eaglemoss Productions Ltd.|year=2013}}
* {{cite book |last1=Harris |first1=Harry G. |last2=Sagnis |first2=Gajanan M. |title=Structural Modeling and Experimental Techniques |year=1999 |publisher=CRC Press LLC |isbn=9780849324697}}
* {{cite journal |author= Kumar|title= Pseudodynamic Testing of Scaled Models |journal=J. Struct. Eng. |volume=123 |issue=4 |pages=524–526 |year=1997|doi= 10.1061/(ASCE)0733-9445(1997)123:4(524) |display-authors=etal}}
* {{Citation|last=Weitekamp|first=Margaret A.|date=2016|title=Two Enterprises: Star Trek's Iconic Starship As Studio Model and Celebrity|journal=Journal of Popular Film and Television|volume=44|pages=2–13|doi=10.1080/01956051.2015.1075955 |s2cid=191380605}}
* {{cite web |title=Progress in Scale Modeling, an International Journal (PSMIJ) |url=https://uknowledge.uky.edu/psmij/ |access-date=19 September 2020 |ref=ISSN: 2693-969X}}

==Further reading==
* {{cite book|last1=Crowe |first1=Clayton t.| last2=Elger |first2=Donald F. |last3=Williams |first3=Barbara C. |last4=Roberson |first4= John A. |title=Engineering Fluid Mechanics |year=2010 |publisher=John Wiley & Sons, Inc.| isbn=978-0-470-40943-5}}
* {{cite book |last1=Harris |first1=Harry G. |last2=Sagnis |first2=Gajanan M. |title=Structural Modeling and Experimental Techniques |year=1999 |publisher=CRC Press LLC |isbn=9780849324697}}
* Lune, Peter van. "FROG Penguin plastic scale model kits 1936 - 1950". Zwolle, The Netherlands, 2017, published by author {{ISBN|978-90-9030180-8}}
* {{cite book|editor-last1=Saito |editor-first1=Kozo  |title=Progress in Scale Modeling |year=2008 |publisher=Springer| isbn=978-1-4020-8681-6}}
* {{cite book|last1=Saito |first1=Kozo |display-authors=et al |title=Progress in Scale Modeling Vol. II |year=2015 |publisher=Springer| isbn=978-3-319-10308-2}}

==External links==
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