Non-Equilibrium Dynamic Systems: Mechanisms of Active Pressure Rectification for Static Lift Generation
This position paper explores the theoretical possibility of generating a net upward force (lift) through the rectification of active pressure in non-equilibrium systems. By focusing on the interaction between active matter and asymmetric "ratchet" surfaces, the work proposes a mechanism to convert internal kinetic energy and stochastic fluctuations into directed mechanical work. The analysis bridges concepts from gyroscopic stability and molecular roto-vibrational dynamics to the "swim pressure" framework of active particles. Potential applications are discussed with a specific emphasis on micro-scale robotics (MEMS) and autonomous synthetic swimmers where viscous forces dominate. This study serves as a conceptual foundation for future experimental investigations into entropic-driven levitation.
Authors
- Walter Allasia (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1735-3438)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
- Published
- 2026-01-13
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.18232680
- Primary Topic
- Micro and Nano Robotics
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00