Quantitative data derived from a model can be confidently applied to natural structures only if the model has been accurately and completely scaled with respect to the natural counterpart. In practice, this degree of scaling may be achieved in numerical models and mechanical physical models. It is often difficult to achieve in geometrical physical models. Nevertheless, partially scaled and even nonscaled models can still help generate ideas on structure development. | Quantitative data derived from a model can be confidently applied to natural structures only if the model has been accurately and completely scaled with respect to the natural counterpart. In practice, this degree of scaling may be achieved in numerical models and mechanical physical models. It is often difficult to achieve in geometrical physical models. Nevertheless, partially scaled and even nonscaled models can still help generate ideas on structure development. |