Physical Model
A physical model is a tangible, three-dimensional representation of a system, object, or process, often used in engineering, architecture, and science to visualize, test, and communicate design concepts. It translates abstract ideas or digital designs into a physical form that can be manipulated and analyzed for real-world interactions, such as structural integrity, aerodynamics, or spatial relationships. This concept is fundamental in fields like mechanical engineering, urban planning, and product development to bridge the gap between theoretical models and practical implementation.
Developers should learn about physical models when working in hardware-software integration, robotics, IoT, or simulation-based applications, as it helps in prototyping physical systems, validating designs before production, and understanding constraints like material properties or environmental factors. For example, in embedded systems development, creating a physical model of a device can aid in testing sensor interactions or mechanical components, reducing costly errors in final products. It's also valuable in game development for motion capture or in architectural visualization to present designs to stakeholders.