It's somewhat effective...
One of the members at the space was working on some circuit boards, but they were taking a long time to etch because there was no agitator (being just a tupperware bowl and some muratic acid rather than a proper etching tank). He was walking over to the bowl every few minutes and giving it a swirl. Deech came up with a unique solution.
Deech noticed our faithful little brush bot. (This guy: http://www.amazon.com/Toysmith-4574-4M-Brush-Robot/dp/B002EWYEHW)
He was a toy that a well meaning relative gave Deech for a small gift, which was put together and left at the space for giggles.
Turns out, without the brush, he hooked perfectly over the rim and happily ran around the edge, setting up nice standing waves in the bowl and causing the board to rotate slowly. In short, he worked like he was designed for it. Plus, googly eyes.
