Abstract: A visual display system creates various visual and audible effects from the motion of light particulate matter, such as beads. The system makes use of a variable flow air array generation device that facilitates a variable flow air array within the chamber. The device includes three or more array sections and a controller. The array sections each contribute distinct but coordinated air flows that coalesce with each other into forming the variable flow air array within the chamber. The controller controls each of the array sections. The variable flow air array generated by the device agitates, fluidizes, suspends, or floats at least some of a plurality of beads in the chamber creating a dynamic display of beads within the chamber.

Abstract: A visual display device creating various visual and audible effects from the motion of light particulate matter, such as beads of expanded polystyrene, comprising a chamber through which a stream of air flow is configured to agitate, fluidize, suspend, or float at least some of the beads. The device also includes a bead transport control subsystem to control the flow of some beads through a conduit from one region of a chamber in the device to another different region in the chamber of the visual display device. The bead transport control subsystem comprises the conduit and a second stream of airflow into or out of a portion of the conduit through a screened opening to prevent or create fluid-like flow of the beads through the conduit that is controlled at least partially independently from the first stream of airflow.