STL Modification – Print-in-Place Flexible Articulated Animal

We are looking for an experienced 3D artist to modify an existing animal STL into a print-in-place articulated model with controlled flexibility, optimized for PLA printing. The objective is to achieve smooth mechanical flexibility using segmentation and joint design, while preserving the original form and maintaining structural strength and printability. Scope of Work Convert provided STL into a segmented, articulated structure Maintain original proportions and silhouette Ensure print-in-place functionality (no assembly required) Introduce controlled flexibility in key areas while keeping overall structure stable Articulation Guidelines (Critical) Use a spine-based segmentation approach as the primary articulation system Apply higher flexibility in: Neck Tail Apply moderate flexibility in: Main body Keep fins/limbs minimally articulated or structurally rigid to avoid breakage Use interlocking or ball-joint style connections suitable for PLA Maintain a clean outer silhouette (avoid overly mechanical or toy-like segmentation) Avoid excessive segmentation that: Weakens structure Increases print time unnecessarily Technical Requirements Optimized for PLA printing (rigid material constraints) Joint tolerances: ~0.3–0.5 mm clearance Smooth articulation without fusion or breakage Clean, manifold geometry (print-ready) Balanced segmentation (not overly dense) Additional Requirement Apply a 2-tone design setup: Clear upper/lower body separation Should support: Dual-color printing OR Easy painting (Use either material IDs or mesh separation as appropriate) Deliverables Final print-ready STL (single-piece articulated model) Optional: separated STL for dual-color printing Clean geometry with no errors (non-manifold, flipped normals, etc.) ⏱️ Timeline 2–3 days for first working version 1 revision round included Notes Reference examples of segmented/flexi-style models will be provided via chat This is a controlled articulation task, not a generic flexi toy design Focus is on balance between flexibility, strength, and aesthetics

Project ID: 40423294