Potential application of special surface geometries to generate a horizontal Casimir force component parallel to the overall surface. Proper alignment of surfaces with these geometries generates an angled force component that can be reduced to the horizontal force alone (the Casimir force component parallel to the overall surface) by an additional external force. Configurations are based on a pair of straight and parallel surfaces with such geometries that the geometry of one is a mirror image of the other with respect to an axis perpendicular to their overall surfaces. Both surfaces face each other with the aforementioned mirrored geometric structures. For example, by appropriately placing such surfaces on the bases of two rollers, which are directed towards each other with their bases and separated by a vacuum (also in the surrounding space), it is possible to obtain a controlled torque of these rollers, whereby they rotate in opposite directions. The presence of a vacuum eliminates friction between the elements and the air and avoids weakening the Casimir force. This makes it possible to use the Casimir force as a source of mechanical energy and, in the example discussed, as a source of torque that can be converted into useful energy.