Model Maker badge
Scout proficiency badge

Model Maker

Build a working model — a flying aeroplane, a boat or dhoni, a racing car, or a railway layout — and explain how it works.

  • Pursuit
  • Syllabus page 25

What you need to do

To gain this badge you must complete all the requirements in one of the following and have a general knowledge of the other alternatives suggested.

Alternative A — aircraft

  1. Construct a model airplane (the use of kits is permitted) which, when flown, meets one of the following minimum flight performances:

    • Glider (hand launched) — 25 seconds
    • Glider (tow launched with 50 meters (164 feet) maximum line length) — 45 seconds
    • Rubber powered (15 seconds maximum motor run) — 45 seconds
    • Control line: demonstrate your model by making a smooth take off, three laps level flight at approximately 2 meters (6 ft) and climb and dive with a smooth landing.
  2. Have a general knowledge of the basic principles of flight, including the three axes and their effect on stability and control.

Alternative B — boat

  1. Build an electric or engine powered model boat, dhoni or yacht, not less than 45 cm (18 in) in length (kits permitted) and show it to be capable of maintaining a straight course of not less than 23 meters (25 yds).
  2. Give a clear explanation of Archimedes' Principle.

Alternative C — car

  1. Either: build an electric slot car racer (not from a kit, though a commercial body and other parts may be used) and drive it a minimum distance of 122 meters (400 ft) on any track without stopping or leaving the slot more than four times.

    • Or: build a free running car of any type (kits permitted) and demonstrate that it will run at least 18 meters (20 yds). Airscrew drive is allowed.
  2. Know how track and wheel base are measured and sketch and explain Ackermann steering.

Alternative D — railway

  1. Build a coach or wagon and demonstrate that it runs satisfactorily behind a locomotive.
  2. Build a scenic model, such as a station, airport, power station, water sports center, fish processing plant, housing scheme, national monument, or a tourist resort, to scale for a layout.
  3. Draw an electric circuit for a simple track layout.
  4. Detail the safety precautions to be taken when assembling such a layout.