It's possible to make powerful nanoscale linear actuators using a similar method to the one described in "masstrans" (previous image). Scientists control the flow of atoms along 1 dimensional paths using voltages applied to the two beams shown in the picture. However, instead of depositing the atoms in a liquid metal reservoir like in masstrans, they let the atoms solidify into a crystal. As the crystal grows, it pushes the two electrical contacts apart.
