This "Kaleidoscope" of Glass Beads Is So Soothing to Watch
Create a beautifully glowing display with RGB LEDs and glass beads.
Andrei Erdei decided to create his own take on the classic kaleidoscope, using a matrix of glass beads and a strip of WS2812B programmable LEDs. His project uses 6mm and 8mm glass beads arranged on a circular fixture, with the LED strip pointing inwards to emit light that shines from the circumference. An ESP8266 ESP-01 module, along with an RGB LED controller is used to generate the different patterns, and a 5V/2A supply is used to power the device.
The structure features a base design with a recessed slot for the strip, as well as an intermediate ring on top that locks the LEDs in place. This ring overhangs the LEDs, and is meant to keep light from shining directly outward, without first being diffused by the glass beads. An acrylic disk keeps the beads in place, though one could imagine leaving this part off to enable a pile of beads that glow in all directions. For that matter, Erdei notes that different partitions could be printed for sectioned lighting effects, and one could even be made with a hollow center.
As seen in the video below, it’s a really pleasant effect, and a concept that could be used in a variety of projects. Perhaps we’ll see more light beads designs from Erdei and others in the future!