Question
Can you design the structure to work? A 500 lb camera translates back and forth on a 50 ft beam. A sprocket chain will move the camera. It is attached to the camera but transmits no forces to the camera other than the transiting force which is minimal. The camera is attached to the beam through a slider channel and a ..is transmitted to the beam. Can you design the basic beam to work for the deflection and rotation limits. (The beam is drawn as some undefined cross section - you will tell what basic cross section is Round, square, hollow, solid? (don't worry about the slider channel)
Explanation / Answer
A 50 ft beam and 500 pounds! You'll need quite a thick steel beam! I would say maybe 5in by 5in solid square beam....