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At the Manitoba Science Centre we built a wave tank with pneumatic (hollow
rubber) bladders, used on semi-trailer truck suspension, on either side of
the fulcrum.  They inflate in alternate periods (using a clock cam) when
visitors push a button.  While it was very reliable it was not terribly
interactive, and certainly not what I think you are thinking of via visitors
pushing on large rubber bladders. I have seen other tanks where visitors
move a plate, horizontally, to create a beautiful wave (possibly at
ScienceWorld B.C.), but I think this was also electrically controlled.
-George Wurtak
Winnipeg, Canada
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-----Original Message-----
Date:    Mon, 31 Oct 2005 10:52:05 -0600
From:    Eric Yuan <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: Ways to Power a Wave Tank

Hello,

We are developing a wave tank as part of an alternative energy exhibit and
are looking for a fun way for visitors to create waves. I've heard there's a
wave tank where visitors push against a rubber bladder.  Has anyone seen
such a device, or know about its reliability?

Thank you in advance for your help!
-Eric

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Eric Yuan
Exhibit Developer
The Tech Museum of Innovation
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