Articulated Predator Halloween Mask

thingiverse

Human: Predator mask with articulated jaw and mandibles. I pushed the boundaries of my creativity and skill by crafting a one-of-a-kind Halloween mask that combines artistic flair with mechanical design prowess. The challenge was on to merge these two distinct styles using OnShape, my go-to 3D software. However, I opted for Fusion 360's sculpting and modeling capabilities, which presented a new learning curve. In just three weeks, I conquered the task of learning Fusion 360, designing, prototyping, printing, and publishing this remarkable mask – all while juggling my day job, no less! If you're interested in witnessing the making of this masterpiece, I'd be happy to create a video showcasing my process. Once the design was finalized, every component underwent meticulous hand-orientation to optimize strength, minimize overhangs, and ensure ideal resolution and adhesion. The orientation in Thingiverse serves as the target print bed configuration. While there are still some refinements to be made (see below for future enhancements), this mask is now print-ready! With just a few rubber bands and some creative styling for dreadlocks, you'll be ready to unleash your inner predator. Parts needed: 1. Check upper head dimensions for a snug fit on your head – scale as necessary. 2. Print 1x Head Left, 1x Head Right, 1x Head alignment markers, 1x tab1, 1x tab2, and 1 or 2 x tab3. 3. Support: Print with support touching the baseplate for overhangs of 30 degrees or less (if horizontal). 4. Orientation: This configuration provides the best resolution for texture details on top of the head. Moveable jaw: 1. Check dimension for a fit on your face – scale as necessary. 2. Same scaling should be applied to parts in #3 below. 3. Print 1x Jaw brace. 4. Support: None required. Moving Mandibles: 1. Print 1x Left mandible (jowl), 1x Right mandible (jowl), 2x Cam holder, 2x Cam, 2x Cam straps, and 2x Hinge. 2. Support: Both the left and right mandibles require support for optimal surface resolution and part strength – ensure heated bed is used. Supports are necessary for mandibles but not for other parts. That's all the printing required! Assembly and use: 1. Join the two head pieces using tabs (use as many as needed) for alignment. Seal in place with ABS glue or superglue, then let cure. 2. Prime all parts (optional filler may be used to retain organic texture). 3. Color all parts. 4. Use 3 cut rubber bands to tie together lower jaw pieces – see picture for guide. The other ends of rubber bands join corresponding places on the other side. 5. Use another cut rubber band or elastic for the upper head piece to go around the back of your head. Styrofoam cutouts can be used to brace the mask against your face/head. 6. Print extensible straps (as many required) to secure the cam straps around the back of your neck – use http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1812743 as a reference. 7. Thread dreadlocks through holes on the sides of the head and some through gaps. Use 10mm "backer rods" for dreadlocks – an informative video can be found on YouTube. That's it! You may want to add black cream paint to blend in exposed parts of your face and colored contact lenses for eyes. The mandibles open when you jut your head forward, and the lower teeth/jaw move in sync with yours. Future enhancements: I plan to redesign the mandible retraction mechanism for increased displacement. However, I don't want users to reprint major pieces – it will work seamlessly with existing mandibles, jaw brace, and head. The hinges/cams may require reprinting. Credits: This design is based on and inspired by the Predator head 3D scan by MGD films (see image) https://sketchfab.com/models/d8173f7c20bb44fda109544c8e5000a6 Print Settings: * Printer: Wanhao i3 * Rafts: No * Supports: Yes * Resolution: .2 with first layer at .3mm * Infill: 10% * Notes: I printed all models in white ABS with 10% infill.