How can complex energy systems, electricity flows and modern energy technologies be presented in a clear and engaging way? Through high-quality interactive scale models that make technical processes visible, understandable and tangible.
MTC Modellbau® recently completed and successfully delivered four custom-built interactive energy models for TEAG Thüringer Energie.
The models illustrate different aspects of modern energy supply – from low-temperature district heating networks and intelligent building technologies to photovoltaic systems, wind energy and underground cable infrastructure.
All four models feature integrated LED lighting technology, allowing energy flows, cable routes and technical processes to be visualized in an intuitive and engaging way.
The result is a collection of four premium presentation and functional models that transform complex energy technologies into impressive three-dimensional experiences.
1. Low-Temperature District Heating Network – Visualizing Heat Distribution with LED Technology
One of the projects involved creating an interactive presentation model illustrating the operation of a low-temperature district heating network, also known as a fifth-generation district heating and cooling network.
These innovative networks distribute thermal energy at relatively low temperatures, allowing decentralized heat pumps to provide heating at the required temperature levels.
For TEAG, MTC Modellbau® developed a high-quality, full-color functional model that clearly demonstrates the technical principles of this energy supply system.
Technical Features
- Custom-built presentation model illustrating a low-temperature district heating network
- Integrated LED light strips to visualize energy and heat flows
- Interactive operation via push buttons directly on the model
- Premium painted MDF display base
- Custom-made protective acrylic display cover
- Precisely fitted transport crate for safe shipping and storage
The integrated lighting allows visitors to follow the operation of the heating network and understand the relationships between the different system components.
By combining a detailed physical representation with interactive LED technology, the model makes an otherwise invisible energy distribution system easy to understand.
2. TEAG Energy House – Interactive Building Model with Intelligent LED Control
How do heat pumps, underfloor heating systems, photovoltaic modules, battery storage and electric mobility work together in a modern building?
This is exactly what the interactive TEAG Energy House demonstrates.
The custom-designed building model illustrates the interaction between various energy technologies in an energy-efficient property. Visitors can activate different systems individually using integrated push buttons.
Two Interactive Operating Modes
Mode 1 – Heating
Pressing the first button activates LED lighting for the heat pump and underfloor heating system, highlighting the building’s heating technology and demonstrating how the components work together.
Mode 2 – Electricity
The second button activates the photovoltaic modules, battery storage system and electric vehicle through LED lighting.
This mode illustrates the relationship between renewable electricity generation, energy storage and electric mobility.
Custom 3D Design and Technical Integration
A particular challenge was integrating the electrical components and wiring into the building structure while maintaining a clean and professional appearance.
To achieve this, our team redesigned the internal structure of the building model.
Wall thicknesses and individual components were adapted to provide sufficient space for electrical wiring, LED installation and electronic controls.
The model combines:
- Custom 3D modeling of the building
- Integration of heat pump, underfloor heating, photovoltaic and battery storage systems
- Representation of electric mobility
- Two independently selectable operating modes
- LED visualization of individual energy systems
- High-quality model surfaces and precise detailing
- Premium presentation base and custom acrylic display cover
The TEAG Energy House demonstrates how interactive architectural and functional scale models can communicate complex building technologies in a clear and engaging way.
3. TEAG Solar – Interactive Energy Infrastructure Model for the C1 Customer Center
One of the most technically extensive projects was the development of an interactive energy infrastructure model for the C1 Customer Center of TEAG Solar GmbH.
With a model footprint of approximately 80 × 60 cm and a scale of around 1:400, the exhibit represents a complete energy infrastructure incorporating multiple generation, storage and consumption systems.
The model combines photovoltaic installations, wind energy, battery storage, transformer infrastructure and industrial electricity consumers within a detailed landscape.
Dynamic LED Animations Visualize Electricity Flows
One of the main highlights is the integrated LED control system, which visually illustrates electricity flows throughout the infrastructure.
Pulsating and directional LED light strips demonstrate the movement of electrical energy between generators, storage systems, transformers and consumers.
Two different operating scenarios can be selected using an integrated switch.
Scenario 1 – Electricity Generation and Grid Feed-In
Electricity flows from renewable energy generation systems through the transformer to the public grid and battery storage systems.
Scenario 2 – Electricity Supply from Storage and Grid
The industrial production facility receives electricity from the battery storage system and the public grid.
The LED animation illustrates the change in electricity flow direction.
Detailed Representation of Energy Infrastructure
The model incorporates numerous technical and landscape elements.
Wind Turbine
A detailed wind turbine represents renewable electricity generation and its connection to the central transformer station.
Ground-Mounted Photovoltaic System
Multiple rows of photovoltaic modules, inverters and perimeter fencing illustrate a conventional utility-scale solar installation.
Agrivoltaics (Agri-PV)
Several agrivoltaic concepts demonstrate how agricultural activities and solar electricity generation can be combined.
These include:
- Vertical photovoltaic fencing systems
- Solar tracking systems
- Elevated photovoltaic installations
- Agricultural areas with crops and berry cultivation
- A tractor representing active agricultural use
Industrial Production Facility with Photovoltaics
A two-story industrial building with rooftop and facade-mounted photovoltaic systems illustrates renewable energy use in industrial environments.
Additional details include solar carports, EV charging stations, inverters, battery storage systems, industrial machinery and vehicles.
Transformer Station and Electricity Distribution
A centrally positioned transformer station connects the different generation and consumption areas.
Underground cable routes are also integrated into the technical representation.
Precision Manufacturing and Model-Making Technology
The model was produced using a combination of advanced manufacturing technologies and professional model-making materials.
These include:
- High-resolution 3D printing
- CNC machining
- Resin components
- PVC and acrylic elements
- Painted high-density modeling foam
- Precision finishing and assembly
Landscaped areas, trees, access roads, fences and additional details create a realistic overall environment.
An integrated compass symbol also illustrates the geographical orientation of the represented installations.
The combination of exceptional detail, interactive electronics and dynamic LED visualization creates a presentation model that makes modern energy infrastructure both accessible and engaging.
4. TEAG Cable Infrastructure Model – Making Underground Utilities Visible
The fourth project focuses on an essential part of modern energy infrastructure that usually remains hidden beneath the surface.
For TEAG, MTC Modellbau® produced a large-scale cable and utility infrastructure model measuring approximately 200 × 70 cm.
The model illustrates which technical components are installed above and below ground level, showing how cables, pipes, conduits and other utility systems are routed.
Above-Ground and Underground Infrastructure
The three-dimensional representation of multiple infrastructure levels makes complex utility routes and technical relationships easier to understand.
Integrated LED light strips highlight selected cable and utility routes, supporting the visual explanation of the infrastructure.
Mobile Presentation Model
To ensure flexible use at exhibitions, presentations and events, the cable model was equipped with a stable mobile display base.
Integrated castors with locking brakes allow the exhibit to be repositioned easily and secured in place.
Key features include:
- Large-format infrastructure model measuring approximately 200 × 70 cm
- Representation of above-ground and underground utility infrastructure
- Visualization of cables, pipes and utility distribution routes
- Integrated LED light strips highlighting selected infrastructure pathways
- Custom manufacturing based on a detailed 3D visualization
- Mobile display base with lockable castors
This model is particularly suitable for customer presentations, exhibitions and educational environments where complex utility infrastructure needs to be communicated clearly.
Four Models – One Common Goal: Making Energy Technology Understandable
Whether illustrating a district heating network, an energy-efficient building, a solar energy infrastructure or underground utility systems, all four projects demonstrate the value of professional industrial model making.
The combination of precision manufacturing, custom engineering, LED technology and interactive functions creates new opportunities for technical communication.
Physical functional models offer a significant advantage when presenting complex products and technologies: visitors can not only observe technical systems but also interact with them and understand their operating principles.
This makes interactive energy models valuable communication tools for energy providers, industrial companies, customer centers, trade fairs and exhibitions.
MTC Modellbau® – Custom Energy Models and Interactive Industrial Scale Models
MTC Modellbau® specializes in the design and production of high-quality industrial scale models, functional models and interactive presentation exhibits for clients across the energy, industrial and technology sectors.
Our services cover the entire development and manufacturing process – from technical 3D design and precision production to the integration of LED technology, electronic controls and custom display solutions.
The four successfully delivered energy models for TEAG Thüringer Energie are another example of how we transform complex technical concepts into premium, interactive exhibits.
We would like to thank TEAG Thüringer Energie for their trust and the successful collaboration on these four projects.
Looking for a Custom Energy Model or Interactive Functional Scale Model?
Whether you need a photovoltaic plant model, wind turbine model, district heating network, electricity infrastructure exhibit or complex industrial scale model, MTC Modellbau® develops tailor-made presentation solutions for your requirements.
MTC Modellbau® – Quality is no coincidence. Perfection is our signature.
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FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Interactive Energy Models
What is an interactive energy model?
An interactive energy model is a physical presentation model that illustrates energy generation, storage, distribution or consumption systems in three dimensions. Integrated LED lighting, electronic controls and push buttons can be used to visualize energy flows and technical processes.
Can electricity and heat flows be visualized using LED technology?
Yes. Integrated LED light strips and electronic control systems can visualize electricity flows, heat distribution, operating conditions and different energy scenarios. Changing flow directions and selectable operating modes can also be represented.
Which types of energy systems can be reproduced as scale models?
MTC Modellbau® manufactures custom models of photovoltaic installations, wind turbines, district heating networks, transformer stations, energy storage systems, industrial facilities and underground utility infrastructure.
Are custom scales and model dimensions available?
Yes. Model dimensions and scales are individually determined according to project requirements. Solutions range from compact tabletop exhibits to large-scale presentation models with mobile display bases.
Are interactive energy models suitable for trade shows and customer centers?
Yes. Interactive models are ideal for trade shows, customer centers, showrooms, training facilities and exhibitions. They help visitors understand complex technologies through intuitive visualizations and hands-on interaction.