Model engineering encompasses many interests. Usually, the project is a smaller model of a larger mechanical device. This can be a steam, gas, temperature drop, jet or another type of engine, or even a factory machine model. It can be a miniature train, a ship, a tractor, a car, or an airplane.
It usually consists of several precise parts working in unison to duplicate a function or produce a result. Patent models were early examples of model engineering.
However, in most cases, the models presented here were built simply because the builder had a desire to demonstrate a new design or to model a specific object in miniature.
The size of the projects may be determined by the raw materials available, the equipment available in the store, the available exhibition space, or an unusual scale may be chosen to prove that all the parts were made by hand.
Some modellers specialize in making the smallest model they can, simply because it presents a bigger challenge or because their friends have said it’s impossible. In engine simulations, the task is usually not completed until the engine starts. Click on any of the above artists to see their work.
Model Makers and Model Engineers
Model making has been used for many years for both business and pleasure. Models are often created to demonstrate a concept’s functionality before making a full-size version, especially before computer modelling became available. For example, before hand-drawn plans were widely used, naval architects used to built a model of a ship for a shipyard so that craftsmen could copy it in full size.
However, the models that are familiar to most of us are created for entertainment. Seeing a smaller version of something big is a real attraction. Toy trains, cars, and planes have been popular ever since real objects existed. Some model makers take their craft beyond crude representations of simple toys to make a real miniature version of an object. The tinier and more detailed the model, the more we admire it.
The model makers differentiate from the model engineers in that the models they create are used to primarily depict a very accurate representation of what something looks like. The engines in these models actually do not work. On the other hand, model engineers are usually engaged in modelling the functions of a device, such as a steam or gas engine.
These models are often very close to presenting the real thing, but the main goal at the beginning of the project is to present a function. Model engineers and model makers have many similar skills and often create models that fall into both categories, but we have divided them into two different rooms in this museum to highlight these two disciplines.
Where Can I See Model Engineering Works?
To get to know model engineering better, you need to see the work of engineers with your own eyes. Where can you do this? There are many professional and amateur exhibitions, but in 2021 many of them are closed for group visits.
We are going to tell you about one of these exhibitions, photos from which you can find on the Internet. The Manchester Model Engineering Exhibition is one of the famous ones. Also, follow the news of the page on Facebook as not to miss the most interesting info about it.
The Manchester Model Show in 2019 was a great success, many positive reviews were received, and a good review has already been published in Engineering In Miniature. So far, the exhibition has been suspended due to Covid-19, but it is expected to open to everyone in 2022.
Other Engineering Communities
Of course, you can find many clubs and communities of model engineers, but we decided to help you and provide a list of some of them that we trust:
- Maidstone MES
- Cardiff Model Engineering Society
- Association of Professional Model Makers
Each of the societies provides support and assistance to its members, so if you are looking for like-minded people and inspiration, it will be useful for you to get to know the participants.
If you want to get acquainted with a large number of clubs, we are also ready to help you with this. Here you can find out an even more detailed list of clubs and communities for model engineers.
Please note that at the moment, the work of some clubs may be suspended for an indefinite period. As soon as the situation in the world with Covid-19 becomes more favourable, the work of the clubs will be resumed. But in the meantime, you can read online materials on the topic of model engineering and work at home to create your masterpieces.
Model Engineering in the UK
As we have already said, model engineering is very important in the UK. Numerous associations and clubs have been established here, exhibitions and meetings between model engineers are held, as well as magazines about model engineering are published. We appreciate that a lot of useful information about model engineering can be found in English.
Therefore, if you want to keep up to date with all the latest news in this area, as well as get a lot of useful information, follow our blog. We are working on useful information on model engineering, do not miss the new publications!