Towards Fully Three-Dimensional Virtual Stirling Convertors For Multi-Physics Analysis and Optimization

The desire for fast, low-cost, and reliable Stirling convertor design decisions has motivated the development of a comprehensive in-house Stirling analysis capability. One of the predominant goals of this project is to enhance the Stirling industry's suite of design tools beyond the currently employed one-dimensional analysis to the level of a virtual three-dimensional full fidelity convertor including structural, mechanical, electromagnetic, and thermal dynamics. This virtual Stirling engine/linear alternator coupling can be used to pre-test prototype hardware, examine internal part performance, and investigate design modifications before expensive convertors are fabricated. An approach is presented for incorporating the complete three-dimensional geometry of modern Stirling convertors and coupling this with multi-physics capability to examine the effects of magnetic, pressure, gravity, spring, and inertial forces on startup behavior, material creep, and overall system performance/efficiency/reliability.