In-Line Stirling Generator Layout for Multiphase Power and Low Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing generator systems, particularly those using internal combustion engines, face inefficiencies due to friction, mechanical complexity, fuel specificity, vibration, and the inability to produce multiphase electricity without conversion, while Stirling engines struggle to generate multiphase electric current effectively.
Innovation Solution
A Stirling energy conversion system comprising a Stirling core with a thermal buffer tube and driven member, operably coupled in a timed sequence to reduce vibration, which can generate electricity or function as a refrigerator/heat pump, and produces multiphase current without additional conversion equipment, utilizing external combustion or non-combustion heat sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If internal combustion engines are used to generate electricity, then power output is achieved, but friction and mechanical complexity reduce efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the power generation function into multiple independent Stirling engine modules (first, second, third, and fourth engines), each capable of operating independently. This segmentation allows the system to achieve desired power output while maintaining simplicity in each individual module, as each Stirling engine has fewer moving parts compared to traditional internal combustion engines.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the traditional piston-cylinder mechanical system with a free-piston Stirling engine design that uses magnetic coupling and linear alternators. This substitution eliminates friction between pistons and cylinder walls, removes the need for traditional crankshafts and connecting rods, and reduces mechanical complexity while maintaining power generation capability.
2Device complexity
If traditional Stirling engines are used, then simplicity is achieved, but the ability to produce multiphase electricity is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple Stirling engine modules with their respective linear alternators into an integrated system where the generators are directly coupled to the engine crankcases. This merging allows the system to produce multiphase electricity (three-phase or four-phase) by utilizing the phase differences between multiple engines operating in sequence, while each individual engine remains mechanically simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The Stirling engine system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can generate single-phase or multiphase electricity, operate in parallel configurations for increased power output, and maintain mechanical simplicity. The universal design allows the same basic engine module to be used in various configurations depending on the desired electrical output.
3Power
If internal combustion engines are used, then power generation is achieved, but vibration and noise increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent arranges multiple Stirling engine modules in a balanced configuration where engines operating in opposite phases counterbalance each other's vibrations. The first and second engines operate 180 degrees out of phase, as do the third and fourth engines, creating a vibration-cancellation effect that reduces overall system vibration and noise while maintaining power output.
4Adaptability or versatility
If internal combustion engines are used, then electricity generation is achieved, but fuel specificity limits versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The external combustion Stirling engine system is designed to accept various fuel types including natural gas, propane, gasoline, diesel, and other combustible materials. The external combustion chamber and heat exchanger design allow flexible fuel injection and combustion, enabling the system to maintain consistent performance across different fuel types while achieving high fuel versatility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves high power density output of at least 20 kW/ft3 and operates efficiently as a generator, refrigerator, or heat pump, balancing vibrations and eliminating the need for conversion equipment to produce multiphase electricity.
Implementation Method 1
A Stirling engine utilizes external combustion to provide the energy to operate the engine and its coupled driven members.
Implementation Method 2
The present invention involves the provision of the combination of a Stirling core with a thermal buffer tube and driven member forming an energy conversion segment
Implementation Method 3
the driven members are coupled to transducing elements forming an alternator to convert the mechanical motion of the driven member into electrical energy
Implementation Method 4
A Stirling core includes a pair of heat exchangers, preferably in combination with a heat transfer device, and a regenerator
Implementation Method 5
A Stirling core includes a pair of heat exchangers, preferably in combination with a heat transfer device, and a regenerator
Data Source
AI summary
A high efficiency generator is provided using a Stirling engine to amplify an acoustic wave by heating the gas in the engine in a forward mode. The engine is coupled to an alternator to convert heat input to the engine into electricity. A plurality of the engines and respective alternators can be coupled to operate in a timed sequence to produce multi-phase electricity without the need for conversion. The engine system may be operated in a reverse mode as a refrigerator/heat pump.