Ball speed on a rolling surface?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the optimal length of a tube for a 6cm diameter steel ball used in a membrane-pump system, designed to harness energy from ocean waves. The setup involves a boat rocking back and forth at a 30-degree total movement over a 3-second period. The key challenge is determining the tube length to ensure the ball effectively strikes the "pillows" without being too short or too long. The principle of resonance is highlighted as crucial for maximizing energy absorption from the oscillating system.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles, particularly oscillation and resonance.
  • Familiarity with trigonometric functions, specifically cosine equations.
  • Knowledge of fluid dynamics and energy conversion mechanisms.
  • Experience with mechanical design concepts related to pumps and energy systems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the application of cosine equations in oscillatory motion calculations.
  • Explore the principles of resonance in mechanical systems.
  • Investigate design considerations for membrane-pump systems in marine environments.
  • Learn about energy harvesting techniques from ocean waves and their efficiencies.
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, marine energy researchers, and inventors interested in renewable energy solutions and mechanical design for wave energy conversion.

enanthate
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A couple friends and I were brainstorming an idea today and thought of a way to make a pump using the waves in the ocean for energy.

So what it comes down to is say a 6cm i diameter steel ball in a tube, each side of the tube could have "pillows" that are part of a "membrane-pump". When the ball hits the pillow the impact force will cause it to pres sits contents out through the exit tube.

My problem is this... I'm having a hard time calculating the proper length of the tube that the ball will we rolling in.

We decided to say that the boat will rock back and forth 15 degrees on each side, so a total movement of 30 degrees. We also decided that it will take 3 seconds from one extreme bank to the opposite extreme bank.
'
How can we utilize a cosinus equation to decide the proper lengh of the tube? Too long and the ball willnever hit the sides. Too short and you won't get a good momentem to hit the pillows. Thanks in advance.
 
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Forgot to mention, Installed on a boat :D
 
Last edited:
I suspect the optimum will be when the period of the wave is about the twice the time it takes the ball to go from one end to the other? I base this on the principle of resonance. An oscillating system absorbs the most energy from the source if the source frequency matches the resonant frequency.
 

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