physical model
Scaled three-dimensional mockup
A physical model is a tangible representation of something, built to study or demonstrate its properties.
Engineers test physical models of bridges before construction.
Anatomical models teach medical students.
The term distinguishes hands-on replicas from mathematical or computer models: We ran simulations, but nothing beats a physical model for spotting design flaws.
Preliminary design representation
- maquettePreliminary sculptural study
- blueprintDetailed technical drawing
- proof of conceptDemonstration of feasibility
- testbedExperimental evaluation environment
foam core · design iteration · functional · engineering · architectural · aerodynamic · automotive · fabrication
Reduced-scale representation
- dioramaEnclosed miniature scene display
- replicaFaithful scaled reproduction
- train setToy locomotive with tracks
- dollhouseMiniature toy residence
tabletop · diecast · collectible · figurine · matchbox · display case · detail work · scratch-built
Controlled airstream apparatus
- fluid dynamicsScience of flowing matter
- load testingEvaluating capacity under strain
- crash testControlled impact experiment
- stress analysisStudy of internal forces
Life-sized display figure
Internal supportive framework
- globeSpherical representation of landmasses
- anatomyStudy of organism structure
- planetariumProjected sky exhibit hall
- DNA helixTwisted genetic structure
cell · atom · molecule · crystal structure · volcano · solar system · geological · topography
mockup
Preliminary design representation
- maquettePreliminary sculptural study
- blueprintDetailed technical drawing
- proof of conceptDemonstration of feasibility
testbed · foam core · design iteration · functional · engineering · architectural · aerodynamic · automotive · fabrication · 3D print
miniature
Reduced-scale representation
- dioramaEnclosed miniature scene display
- replicaFaithful scaled reproduction
- train setToy locomotive with tracks
dollhouse · tabletop · diecast · collectible · figurine · matchbox · display case · detail work · scratch-built · museum piece
wind tunnel
Controlled airstream apparatus
- fluid dynamicsScience of flowing matter
- load testingEvaluating capacity under strain
- crash testControlled impact experiment
mannequin
Life-sized display figure
CPR dummy · medical training · prosthetic · body part · skeletal system
skeleton
Internal supportive framework
- globeSpherical representation of landmasses
- anatomyStudy of organism structure
- planetariumProjected sky exhibit hall
DNA helix · cell · atom · molecule · crystal structure · volcano · solar system · geological · topography · ecosystem
- modelssupermodel, spokesmodel, cover girl, mannequin, neural net
- data systemsdatabase, data warehouse, data lake, schema, data store
- data modelingschema, entity, attribute, relationship, normalization
physical modelvirtual model
Computer-rendered human representation
computer simulation · digital simulation · computer model · digital twin · 3D rendering
physical modelmathematical model
Equations describing system behavior
theoretical model · mental model · theoretical framework · thought experiment · equation
physical, model, physic, physics, physician, physicality, physically, physique, models