Steampunk “Plane Loco

Patrick at the controls of Plane Loco.

WIKIPEDIA: Steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction that typically features high tech steam-powered machinery, especially in a setting inspired by industrialized Western civilization during the 19th century.

This model is Patrick Acton’s largest matchstick creation, containing over one million matchsticks and 35 gallons of wood glue, taking approximately 3000 hours to design and construct during the past 12 months.  It measures over 20 feet long and 9 feet high, with a wingspan of 13 feet. The steampunk model is Pat’s own design, based loosely a 2-6-0 steam locomotive from the early 1900s and Leonardo da Vinci’s wing design from the 1500s.   Plane Loco was completed in May of 2015.

Plane Loco was commissioned by Ripley’s Believe It or Not and can be seen in their New York City Times Square museum.

Patrick begins construction of his largest matchsict model.
The six drive wheels will need to support the models weighinh several hundred pounts.
The locomotive’s frame
The basic framework structures begins to take shape.
The drivetrain linkages and firebox are added.
Framing for the boiler.
The huge model consumes free space in Patrick’s tiny basement shop.
The steampunk locomotive has six steam engines, Two for the drivewheels, two for the main wings and additional ltwo for the smaller front wings.
Gears are essentail in steampunk art and added for he propeller.
Out of the shop and into the cleared family room for completion,
Space is at a premium in the Acton home during construction of his largest matchstick models.
The completed Plane Loco model is moved temporarily to Matchstick Marvels befoe shipping to Ripley’s Believe It or Not.
Patrick leaves no doubt where Plane Loco is headed.

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