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"scale effect" Topic


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281 hits since 12 Jun 2025
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Comments or corrections?

George Jetson12 Jun 2025 7:37 p.m. PST

In scale modeling, the "scale effect" refers to the visual differences between a model and its real-world prototype, primarily due to the change in viewing distance and atmospheric conditions. It also encompasses how materials and surface finishes are perceived at smaller scales.
Here's a breakdown of the scale effect:
1. Visual Perspective and Atmospheric Effects:
Distance:
.
While a model is usually viewed at a close distance (1-2 feet), it represents a much larger distance in the context of the model's scale. For example, a 1:72 model represents a distance of 72 feet.
Atmosphere:
.
Due to atmospheric effects like dust, moisture, and pollution, objects appear lighter and less saturated with color at a distance.
Visual Perception:
.
The viewer's eye unconsciously expects the model to appear with the same color and sheen as the prototype when viewed from that scale distance.
2. Adjusting for Scale:
Color:
.
To simulate the perceived color of the prototype from a distance, modelers often desaturate colors by adding white or light gray.
Surface Finish:
.
Surface sheen is also adjusted. Smaller models typically have a less glossy finish, as large areas of glossy reflection are less visible at a distance.
Weathering:
.
Weathering techniques, such as applying washes, weathering paints, and panel lining, can also be used to enhance the scale effect by simulating wear and tear on the real prototype.
3. Other Considerations:
Field-Size Metameric Failure:
.
This refers to the change in color perception across different parts of the visual field.
Light:
.
The lighting conditions under which the model is viewed can also affect the perceived color and scale effect.
Material Choice:
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The materials used in the model, particularly for weathering and finishes, can also influence the scale effect.
In essence, the scale effect in modeling is about simulating the visual appearance of a real-world object at a scaled distance, considering factors like atmospheric conditions, color perception, and surface finishes.

clibinarium13 Jun 2025 3:51 a.m. PST

I don't understand; is this an an answer given by AI asked about what the "scale effect" might be?

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