What is model designation?

Prior to the 21st century and the computer age; design models were synonymous with the term "builder's model." From the beginning of time up thru the 1800's ships, warships and otherwise (which were primarily built from wood) were constructed WITHOUT paper plans (sometimes referred to as "blueprints"). The ship builders just started building the vessel until it was completed; without plans no ship would ever be exactly like the next one. As Kings and Queens (nation's leaders) requested more vessels to be built, they wanted to know what they would look like when finished, and if it were to meet their needs: consequently, the ship builders constructed a MODEL (also made of wood) of the vessel to be built; the King or Queen (or nation's leader) would inspect/view the model, which might be anywhere from 2 to 6 feet in length and say whether or not they liked what they saw. This was the called the BUILDER's MODEL (model ship). From there, the actual vessel would be constructed, and the model ship (builder's model) would be donated to a museum or the office of the new owner, or someone that wanted it.

From the 1800s to present, model ships have become popular hobbies for people, for people all around the world, not just the United States, Great Britain, Spain, or France (these nations built alot of model ships in their times). Another Words, what started out as a necessity...developed into a hobby (model ship building).

21st century computers have rendered BUILDER's MODELs obsolete; they are no longer necessary to construct anything (ships, planes, cars, etc.). However, people still like them, and the US Navy, Army, Marine Corps, or Air Force, or private companies such as airline companies may still want them, or would like to have them just to maintain TRADITION.