How do you choose your Leonardo da Vinci model?
Leonardo da Vinci models have fascinated people for centuries. Many model-makers seek to reproduce them.
How do you choose the material for your Leonardo da Vinci model?
What are the most popular Leonardo da Vinci models?
Leonardo da Vinci is considered to be the first model maker and one of the precursors of wooden models. In fact, this illustrious inventor and scientist, who died in 1519, was the creator of numerous Leonardo da Vinci models that served as a basis or inspiration for many other inventors after him. Here are some of his most important creations, which are reproduced by modern model makers.
The helicopter model
Among the long list of Leonardo da Vinci models, the helicopter is one of the most emblematic. This superb wooden model was inspired by Vinci's original sketches. It's a model you can assemble to understand how a helicopter works. Also known as an "aerial screw", the model helicopter uses a bevel gear to turn the wing. It is made from natural, pre-cut, untreated wood.
The rolling ball timer
The rolling ball timer is one of the most inspiring Leonardo da Vinci models for many players of the time. This rolling ball timer is based on a sketch of an escapement mechanism. It uses the principles of gravity and kinetics to measure the passage of time, and uses precision gears to power a platform that propels a rolling ball. The assembly is fairly complex and requires a great deal of concentration and precision. However, this model offers hours of entertainment for those aged 14 and over.
The Leonardo da Vinci clock
The Leonardo da Vinci clock model has a typical and fascinating design. This invention uses weights and finely connected gears to measure time. It has a horizontal rotating pendulum whose weight and adjustment define the speed of the clock. Like all Leonardo da Vinci models, the design is based on the inventor's sketches. It requires no glue or paint to assemble, but can take an average of 2 hours.
The Leonardo da Vinci flying machine
The Leonardo da Vinci flying machine or "ornithopter" was designed to fly by flapping its wings in imitation of birds. It is a device in which the aviator lies on a board and operates two large wings using hand levers, pedals and a pulley system. The assembly of this model is less complicated than that of the rest of the da Vinci collection.
The Leonardo da Vinci catapult
The Leonardo da Vinci catapult is a wooden model that you can assemble to understand how these launchers work. Once assembled, it can fire a clay ball up to 4 metres.
The Italeri model
The Italeri model is a pedal-powered model boat with a paddle-wheel mechanism. It has wooden paddles or blades that push the water forward and are connected by a wooden axle. The boat moves forward with a belt-driven propulsion system.
The Revell model
The Revell model is another of the most emblematic Leonardo da Vinci models. It is a kit based on the Vitruvian Man: Leonardo's most famous study. The Revell model is made from laser-cut wood and requires PVA wood glue for assembly.
What are the Leonardo da Vinci wooden models?
Since the vast majority of Leonardo da Vinci's inventions are made from wood, it's only natural that this material should be used to make Leonardo da Vinci scale models. Wood is also easy to carve and pleasant to handle. However, its use requires specific know-how and extreme precision. What's more, there are several types and shades of wood to choose from for a wide range of models.
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