How 3D printing turns “digital” into a frozen element

Today, 3D printing is a versatile production tool that can be easily integrated into tasks of any complexity. A striking example of such integration is our “Ice Fountain,” which we designed and manufactured specifically as a striking decoration for a children’s party. This clearly demonstrates that additive technologies are equally successful in both the industrial and event industries.

The journey from an idea to a finished object began with detailed digital design of a model with complex hanging icicles. To avoid deformation of the thin elements and preserve the perfect geometry, we did not attempt to print the entire fountain.

The model was intelligently divided into technological segments, each of which was printed in its optimal orientation. Then we carried out the final post‑processing of each block and completed the process with careful mechanical assembly.

The effect of frozen ice and internal overflows deserves special attention. We achieved this by combining several factors: we embedded LED lighting in the base of the fountain, creating a bright blue glow; we used a translucent photopolymer that diffuses light; and we applied a protective coating that enhances refraction.

However, the main secret is not hidden in the material, but in the carefully designed geometry. It is the complex shape of the multi‑tiered basins and the thin, hanging icicles that creates that very multi‑layered play of shadows and highlights. When combined with the built‑in lighting, the correct shape literally “brings the material to life,” making it glow from within.

Our approach to work is based on a well‑established technological process: design, segmentation, printing, post‑processing, and final assembly. This is a universal scheme that can be scaled to meet any requirements, whether it’s creating large exhibition models, producing engineering prototypes, or, as in the case of this fountain, developing atmospheric decor for children’s parties.