A Coupled Model of the Linear Joule Engine with Embedded Tubular Permanent Magnet Linear Alternator

Abstract

Abstract In the paper, a coupled dynamic model of the Linear Joule Engine and the embedded permanent magnet linear alternator is presented, which is the first dynamic model alike to bridge mechanical and electrical parts of linear engine generator, and provides better prediction of the performance. The detailed sub-model of the linear alternator responding forces eliminate any underestimation of their impact on the kinetics of the moving mass, i.e. piston, translator and rods, in turn, the electricity generation. The coupled model also enables an integrated design of the Linear Joule Engine and the linear alternator, which has the double acting piston in the compressor mounted with embedded permanent magnets to work as the translator, while the compressor cylinder bore is integrated with coils as the stator. It is predicted that the Linear Joule Engine Generator of the new design produces 1.8kWe with thermal efficiency of 34% and electrical generation efficiency of 30%.