The Fascination of Model Building

For three days, Friedrichshafen was once again completely in the hands of model builders. The “Faszination Modellbau” trade show—featuring models on land, water, and in the air—opened its doors for the 10th time, and as early as the first day, countless people—young and old, men and women—made their way to the “sacred halls of superlatives” at the crack of dawn. 353 exhibitors from 12 countries showcased their latest models. The focus was on model railroads, model cars, model airplanes, plastic and cardboard models, model ships, and model trucks. From remote-controlled

tank ready to fire, camouflaged in a mound of earth, all the way to the yellow-and-black-striped Tiger Duck capable of aerobatics—everything was on display and, of course, for the most part available for purchase, since it was, after all, a sales exhibition. With so much technology, fun, beauty, and excitement, not a single man’s heart remained unmoved, and the children’s eyes sparkled with delight. Right at the West Entrance, the first attraction awaited the enthusiastic hobby pilots: an FMT indoor air show of the very finest kind. The faces of the many people pressed against the barrier—

network, to get as close as possible to the display of flying saucers, wardrobes, or the daredevil-looking Supermen. All homemade. Hall 3 was then the mecca

for model aircraft enthusiasts. Crowded together, the many visitors marveled at the various airplanes, rockets, and helicopters, such as the beautiful Kamax model—a homemade creation by FSMC Konstanz. This turbine-powered cargo helicopter features a counter-rotating twin-rotor system and was on loan from Hermann Rainer. The 18-cylinder double-row radial engine from Heilemann Sternmotoren also drew many curious glances: 700 cm³, 4 rear carburetors, a two-stage planetary gearbox, and approx. 40 PS. 3,800 hours of work.

Once again this year, there was something for every model-building enthusiast, and they’ll be back in 2012 when it’s time for “Faszination Modellbau Friedrichshafen.” The organizer, Messe Sinsheim GmbH, is definitely looking forward to your visit. ■

*Eddi Nothelfer*