Manufacturing Settings and Technical Details (Summarized):
Type of Machine: FDM 3D Printer (suitable for the detailed textures of the fish and log, and general accessibility). Resin (SLA/DLP) would yield significantly finer details, especially on the fish scales and log grain, as well as a smoother surface, but at higher cost and complexity.
Materials Recommended:
PLA: Recommended for FDM printing due to its ease of use, good detail reproduction, and suitability for decorative items. Consider a metallic-look PLA or silk PLA to emulate the rendered appearance, or a matte PLA if painting is planned.
PETG: Offers more durability and slight flexibility, which might be beneficial for the fins, but can be slightly more challenging to print.
Transparent/Clear Resin: If using an SLA/DLP printer, a clear resin could replicate the glass-like quality seen in the render, with options for tinting.
Resolution (Layer Height): 0.12mm - 0.16mm (for FDM). This range will best capture the intricate textures of the fish scales and wood grain. For resin, finer layers (e.g., 0.05mm) would further enhance detail.
Suggested Size: 150mm - 250mm long (from base front to fish tail tip). This allows for good visibility of details without being overly large.
Infill: 10-20% (sufficient for a decorative, non-functional item). Cubic or Gyroid patterns provide good internal support.
Supports Needed: Yes. Supports will be crucial for the underside of the fish (body, fins, mouth) where it doesn't contact the log, and potentially for complex overhangs within the log's texture. The log itself may also require supports depending on its orientation and the severity of its overhangs. Tree/Organic supports are highly recommended for complex organic shapes as they are easier to remove and minimize surface scarring.
Finishing Suggestions: Carefully remove all supports. Light sanding can smooth any support marks, especially on the fish body. For FDM prints, priming is recommended before painting. Painting with acrylics can bring out the details (e.g., realistic fish colors, wood tones). For a metallic look, metallic spray paints or chrome-effect paints can be used. For a clear/glass look (if using transparent filament or resin), polishing or clear coating can enhance transparency.
Safety Standards Applicable:
Intended Use: This model is designed for decorative purposes only, suitable as a trophy, award, or display sculpture.
Safety Alerts:
Non-Critical Part: This is a decorative item and not intended for any functional or load-bearing applications.
Not Food Contact Safe: 3D printed objects are generally not considered food safe due to their porous nature.
Child Hazards: The fins and other details on the fish might be delicate and potentially sharp after printing/support removal. Supervise children to prevent accidental breakage or injury.