The authors exprore the nonlinear dynamics of two parallel periodically patterned metal surfaces that are coupled by the zero-point fluctuations of the electromagnetic field between them. The resulting casimisr force generates for asym . Patterns with a time periodically driven surface-to-surface distance a ratchet effect ,allowing for directed lateral motion of the surface in sizable parameter ranges. It is crucial to take into account inertia effects and hence chaotic dynamics which are described by langevin dynamics . Multiple velocity reversals occur as a function of driving , mean surface distance , and effective damping . These transport properties are stable against weak ambient noise.
