Finally, (and this is not a rhetorical question. I really don't know.) Am I right in thinking that when you move one part of the tank water, you are moving it all so you have to calculate for that?
This will be a yes or no answer depending on how it is done..
If you are using a pump, the tank water moves for free (pump has to pull from somewhere). Just need to calculate for inertia of tank water..
With the paddles, you would just need to calaulate overcoming the inertia,resistance to being directed, and the momentum when you change directions.. :hmm4:
I dont think the idea with the paddles hanging down will last for long, it being offset like that and the forces on it will destroy linear bearings in short order..
The best bet for success with the paddles would be a rodless cylinder that can be submerged in SW.
That way it can push/pull from the center of the paddles.. There are also enclosed ballscrews setups that work the same way..
Second concern for the paddle setup as being shown is grease..
It will have to be lubricated and that lubrication will fall into the water, also when the bearing fails it will throw little balls and grease everywhere..
The idea of using wheels/cam followers will also need lubrication and be self destructive.. Plus the concern of broken parts/grease falling in the water also..
Since the calcs have be done for how big of a chunk of water needs to be moved, we/someone should be able to come up with a externally mounted driver and a piston chamber to meet the needs and not endanger the tank or its critters..
Dont take my comments as me being arrogant or an ***, I have been in industrial maintenance for 30 years and I tend to just blurt stuff out.. :spin3:
