Siege Tower Model
From DT Online
Introduction
Working models of a Siege Tower ( aka Turris or Helepolis) can be made using methods shown in the DT Online Box Modelling article or using Stripwood Technology techniques, tools and materials as described in that section of DT Online.
Turris Model (Version 1)
A reasonably quick and easy way to make a model Turris is based on card stiffened with lengths of Stripwood. The Rolling Chassis can also be made from stiffened card or by making use a suitably sized box.
- Either cut a rectangle of Thick Card, glue Stripwood along its long edges and cut narrow strips to glue to form chassis sides as shown, or choose a suitable size box as a starting point (Note: for best results, turn the box inside out and re-assemble to reveal a better surface for painting and gluing).
- Cut Thick Card to the shape of the Turris sides and stiffen by adding Stripwood with PVA Glue.
- Cut rectangles to form the Corvus (or Drawbridge) and hinge together with Tape.
- Add Medium Card triangles with holes punched through to locate axles and winding handles.
Safety Point! Use a Cutting Mat and a metal Safety Ruler when using a knife to cut card
Turris Model (Version 2)
A more realistic model can be made using Stripwood frames joined with card triangles. Draw out full-size on centimetre squared paper then build the two side frames over it before joining them together with cross pieces. Wooden clothes pegs can be used to make hinges and axle holders. Use wooden BBQ kebab skewers lashed together with cotton and glue to make the scaling ladders.
Further Work - Find out about Ratchets and Pulleys and explore how they can be modelled to improve the winding mechanism.
Activity: Find out about Roman Siege Equipment (e.g. Vinea, Pluteus, Mantelet, Testudo (model), Musculus, Helepolis, Turris, Corvus, Ballista (aka Scorpion), Onager, Aries (Battering Ram) and construct a working model or models using Stripwood Technology.
Safety Point! Take great care with hot glue guns and all hot-melt glues. The melted glue can stick to the skin and cause severe burns.
