To complement the renovated basin, and to add a touch of modernity to the gardens, the original fountain equipment (which sat tarnished and broken) was completely removed and replaced with new fountain technology. The new contemporary design was conceived by project architect Petco Prokopiev and installed by local fountain contractor Aquapools Ltd., while the fountain components themselves were manufactured by Toronto-based water feature specialist Crystal Fountains Inc.
Arranged roughly in the shape of a giant question mark, the new Singing Fountain comprises five distinct jet effects, including alternating cascades, fan jets, finger jets, and plume jets that jump and sway in sync to a selection of handpicked musical compositions, reaching up to a height of 12 m (39.3 ft). Of particular note is a unique hydraulic nozzle that is capable of manipulating bursts of water in a 360-degree axis.
Steal the show
In addition to the ability to create captivating fountain shows, these jet effects launch a high volume of water into the air. The resulting mist helps generate a measure of evaporative cooling for the surrounding area, providing guests a source of thermal comfort that can lead to enjoyment and extended outdoor visits on hot summer days.
The Singing Fountain’s numerous plumes and cascades also produce a significant amount of ambient noise while in operation. While park visitors can often find the aural sensation of tumbling water to be soothing, the ambient noise from the running jets also serves to effectively mask traffic noise from nearby roadways. This creates a sound insulating barrier that enhances the comfort of the Tsar Simeon Garden environment.
After the sun sets, the Singing Fountain is illuminated with countless light-emitting diode (LED) lights, incorporating an array of bright and exciting colours into the programmed water shows. Their addition illuminates the surrounding garden space and encourages guests to use the community park late into the evening.
The brains behind the water feature
To help facilitate the sequenced water feature shows, physics-based fountain simulation software was used to create a behaviourally realistic representation of the choreography required for each chosen song.
By employing a simulation before any on-site commissioning took place, the on-site programming time for the water feature was significantly reduced, as the programmer was able to base the sequencing required for each show directly on the simulations provided, eliminating any creative guesswork. Further, the use of simulation software also increased the satisfaction on the part of the Plovdiv municipality, as they could see their fountain in action rather than simply imagining the end result and hoping for a positive outcome.
