Measuring Prototype Structures Measuring Prototype Structures

for Modelsfor Models

Kevin LooffKevin Looff

Rick WatsonRick Watson

March 1, 2008March 1, 2008

AgendaAgenda

ToolsTools- PreparationPreparation- SafetySafety- Measuring the prototypeMeasuring the prototype

Objective Objective Identify the tools and techniques to Identify the tools and techniques to

document plans for a prototype document plans for a prototype structure that’s not available in kit structure that’s not available in kit

form todayform today

ToolsTools Expandable 8’ Measuring stick marked in 1’ Expandable 8’ Measuring stick marked in 1’

increments – it’s preferred to have a 20’ capabilityincrements – it’s preferred to have a 20’ capability 4’ Measuring stick marked in 3”, 6”, & 12” 4’ Measuring stick marked in 3”, 6”, & 12”

incrementsincrements Measuring wheel or large tape measureMeasuring wheel or large tape measure 25’ locking metal tape measure with wide blade25’ locking metal tape measure with wide blade Camera (digital is preferred). Start with a fresh roll Camera (digital is preferred). Start with a fresh roll

of film or an empty memory card if possible.of film or an empty memory card if possible. Camera supplies – Spare batteries, film or memory Camera supplies – Spare batteries, film or memory

card, and cleaning supplies. Notebook and pencil card, and cleaning supplies. Notebook and pencil w/eraserw/eraser

Photographs studied prior to trip, diagrams, etc.Photographs studied prior to trip, diagrams, etc. Calculator (optional)Calculator (optional)

PreparationPreparationStudy photographs of your subject and make a diagram of the measure-ments that you need to get. Also make notes of any details you need to record. You can also use a copy of a photograph or an aerial, if you don’t have a general map of the building

If your subject is at a museum, call or write in advance to see if access not usually granted to the public is possible.

PreparationPreparation Depot

Review aerial photos

on tools such as Map

Quest, Google Maps,

etc.

Aerial photos can be good for identifying roof details

SafetySafetyDo Not Trespass! - Try to get permission before you go. - If not possible, ask when you get there if someone is present. - Do not climb over or through fences.

Let people know what you are doing and why. Most will be accommodating.

If asked to leave by someone of authority, do not argue. - Pack up and leave. - Ask if there is someone you can contact to get the necessary permission to come back.

Remember: You represent all of the model railroading community to the person your talking with.

SafetySafetyBe Aware of Your Surroundings- Active rail lines are frequently near our subjects. - Don’t pay so much attention to your subject that you don’t see the train that is about to run over you.- Many areas that we might want to visit are not always in the nice part of town.- Have plenty of daylight hours to get your work done and if at all possible, take a buddy with you.

- Always be friendly and pleasant. This will help the next modeler who visits the site. - If you are working in a public place, be prepared to answer a few questions as people will be curious as to what you are doing.

Do not cause any damage and do not remove property from the site.

Site MeasurementsSite MeasurementsOn arrival - Check your surroundings. - If you have received permission in advance, let people know that you are there. - If you did not get permission in advance, try to let someone know who you are and what you are doing.

Photographs - Remember, the photographs are for documenting a structure or pieces of railroad equipment not artistic purposes. - Begin with a general picture or pictures of each side that is accessible.

Site MeasurementsSite MeasurementsPhotographs

- Shoot as square to the subject as possible. - Include the expandable measuring stick in the photo when appropriate for reference later.

Site MeasurementsSite Measurements

Take a picture of each type of door, window, or special feature include the tape measure or measuring stick in the photo for reference .

Site MeasurementsSite MeasurementsMeasurements- Refer to your diagram and collect all of the necessary measurements. - Add any other features that you overlooked - while studying the photos.- Measure and record the sizes of doors and windows.

Attach the 4’ measuring stick to the expandable measuring stick in a T or L shape to measure roof overhang or high features.

Site MeasurementsSite MeasurementsObservations - Make note of size and type of building materials. Board and batten, lap siding, brick, cinder block, sheet metal, etc.- Measure the size of brick, lumber, or metal siding. - Count the number of block courses for masonry structures, number of boards for siding, corrugations per foot of metal siding.

Site MeasurementsSite Measurements

You can never have enough pictures!!!

Site MeasurementsSite Measurements

Site MeasurementsSite Measurements

Evolution of the StructureEvolution of the StructureStudy your reference photos and try to determine the era.- Notice that the photo from the book has vehicles that appear to be late 50s or early 60s. - Next, notice that the loading door was moved at some point between when the reference photo was taken and when the site measurements photos were taken.

In the current photo below you can clearly see where the original door was located and was subsequently moved.

Final StepsFinal Steps

Go home and start modeling!

Review your work