modelling

In art, the depiction of a three-dimensional form either through the sculpture of a soft substance, or the use of light, shadow, and colour in painting and drawing. It is also the practice of posing as an artist's subject.

In sculpture the technique of modelling uses clay or other plastic materials. It is the opposite of carving, the sculpture of harder, more resistant material. In painting and drawing modelling gives a two-dimensional surface the impression of three-dimensional solidity, and the subject matter roundness and weight. The term is most often used with reference to representations of the human figure.

modelling

Technique used when designing, to investigate ideas as part of the design process. Models can be static three-dimensional objects showing the shape, style, and texture of a design idea. Examples of materials used in this type of modelling include papier mâché, clay, plasticine, expanded polystyrene, card, and timber-based materials (MDF, balsa, jelutong, etc).

For working models with parts that function or move, kits are usually used. Construction kits are helpful for making mechanical models showing how gears, levers, or pulley systems work. They can also be used for modelling structures. Electronic modelling can be carried out using ‘breadboards’, pinboards, or Veru board. Computer simulations are another way of modelling ideas. There are a number of specialist software programs that can be used to model ideas across a range of design and technology subjects, from stresses in materials, to computer-aided design, to electronics and mechanisms.

Roughly made models or models made early in the design process are called mock-ups. More accurately made models or models with much more detail are called prototypes.