We investigate the dynamics of a classical particle in a one-dimensional two-wave potential composed of two periodic potentials that are time independent and of the same amplitude and periodicity. One of the periodic potentials is externally driven and performs a translational motion with respect to the other. It is shown that, if one of the potentials is of the ratchet type, translation of the potential in a given direction leads to motion of the particle in the same direction, whereas translation in the opposite direction leaves the particle localized at its original location. Moreover, even if the translation is random, but still has a finite velocity, an efficient directed transport of the particle occurs.

• Received 29 February 2000

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.85.491