Abstract:
A ferroelectric material having its permittivity dependent on temperature is disposed partially in an electric field between a pair of capacitor plates. A heat source is provided to heat the ferroelectric material just outside the capacitor plates to increase the permittivity above that existing between the capacitor plates so that a force pulls the heated portion into the field. The force is enhanced by providing a liquid of high permittivity between the ferroelectric material and the capacitor plates. By using a liquid having a permittivity between the upper and lower extremes of the ferroelectric material, a force is produced pushing the ferroelectric material, when cooled, out of the field.