Date of Award
Spring 4-2014
Access Type
Thesis - Open Access
Degree Name
Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Department
Mechanical Engineering
Committee Chair
Marc D. Compere
First Committee Member
Darris L. White
Second Committee Member
Edward J. Lewandowski
Abstract
The Advanced Stirling Convertor (ASC) is a free-piston Stirling engine coupled with a linear alternator currently being under extended testing at the NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC). Using the Sage 1-D Stirling modeling software, a linear alternator model was developed using two separate methods and integrated with an existing ASC Stirling engine model. One used a simplified transducer method, while the other was developed from first principles. The combined models were tuned and validated against test data and then compared against each other. Both validated models are able to match test data within 7% or better. In addition, a MATLAB graphical user interface (GUI) was developed to interface and operate Sage models. The GUI enables the Sage models to be run with varied input parameters, displays simulation results, and creates phasor diagrams of ASC forces and voltages. This tool also enables users with limited modeling experience to run Sage model simulations and could be useful in space mission planning.
Scholarly Commons Citation
Metscher, Jonathan F., "Free-Piston Stirling Convertor Model Development, Validation, and Analysis for Space Power Systems" (2014). Doctoral Dissertations and Master's Theses. 171.
https://commons.erau.edu/edt/171
