To: <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> From: "J. R. Molloy" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Mailing-List: list [EMAIL PROTECTED]; contact [EMAIL PROTECTED] Delivered-To: mailing list [EMAIL PROTECTED] Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001 10:20:27 -0800 Reply-To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [>Htech] Vacuum powered micro-machines Quantum Fields LLC Quantum Vacuum Forces Project http://www.quantumfields.com/projects.htm Quantum electrodynamics (QED) is probably the best verified theory in physics. It makes some startling predictions about the importance of quantum fluctuations of the electromagnetic field in empty space. It predicts a near infinite vacuum energy density. Quantum fluctuations have been linked to particle mass, to spontaneous emission, to the speed of light, and to the topology of the universe. The presence of surfaces changes the energy density in the vacuum fluctuations. The ability to alter these parameters could be of significant benefit to the Breakthrough Propulsion Physics (BPP) objectives. We will perform a theoretical investigation of the use of surfaces and cavity structures in order to alter vacuum energy. A Micro Electro Mechanical System (MEMS) interferometer structure is planned to measure the index of refraction in a cavity, which will serve as a test of QED predictions. The variations in vacuum energy produced by surfaces can also result in vacuum forces, such as the recently verified Casimir force between two parallel conducting plates. Very few other geometrical structures have been investigated, and our understanding of the role of surfaces in altering vacuum energy and generating vacuum forces rudimentary. For rectangular cavities, forces are predicted on the walls that may be inward, outward or zero depending on the ratios of the sides. Such forces may be of use in operating MEMS devices, including resonant cavities. We propose to model and build a MEMS cavity structure, to verify the QED prediction of repulsive forces, and to study the properties of these cavities and the energy balance in a static and in a vibrating mode. When we have gained a greater understanding of cavities and vibrating structures, a second generation MEMS structure will be designed, modeled, fabricated and tested. We will investigate the possibility of fluctuation driven engines that operate between two regions of different energy density, in a similar manner to which heat engines operate at different temperature. Two types of engines will be considered: one in which one set of surfaces moves relative to another, akin to an electric motor, and a second type in which a working fluid, perhaps consisting of atoms or electrons, passes between the two regions of different vacuum energy. We will develop several candidate structures for fluctuation engines and fabricate the most promising. In all theoretical and experimental work, care will be taken to understand energy balance requirements and conservation laws, and to determine what is possible and what is not. QED computations will be used as the guide. This effort will answer many of the basic questions about the role of vacuum fluctuations, and lay a solid foundation of knowledge about vacuum energy, vacuum stress and how to control them using surfaces and what their limitations are. Researchers will be able to build upon this knowledge to build more complex ideas and structures involving vacuum fluctuations. The program represents a unique collaborative effort involving strong QED theorists, experts in propulsion, gravitation, and other relevant technologies, coupled with highly qualified and experienced developers of MEMS devices. The Principle Investigator, an experienced researcher who is trained in QED and Casimir phenomena, and who has worked for over 15 years in microfabrication technology and experimental measurements, is uniquely qualified to lead this effort. The effort will answer questions about the energy in the vacuum and if and how we might be able to utilize it in the BPP mission. -----BEGIN TRANSHUMANTECH SIGNATURE----- Post message: [EMAIL PROTECTED] List owner: [EMAIL PROTECTED] List home: http://www.egroups.com/community/transhumantech/ Alt archive: http://www.planetx.com/majordomo/transhumantech/ Old archive: http://www.planetx.com/transhumantech/threads.html -----END TRANSHUMANTECH SIGNATURE----- == You are subscribed to the Europa Icepick mailing list: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Project information and list (un)subscribe info: http://klx.com/europa/
