Multisimulation model for Stirling and Vuilleumier cycle machines

The multisimulation model based on a so-called isothermal analysis has been newly developed for the primary performance prediction of both Stirling cycle machines and Vuilleumier cycle machines, which are realized as closed regenerative and external-combustion heat engines. The calculated results are compared with those of a so-called 3rd-order analysis, and the source of the difference between them is discussed. In addition, it is revealed by introducing an imaginary power piston into the present model that the Vuilleumier cycle machine is internally divided into a Stirling cycle engine and a Stirling cycle refrigerator which jointly own the imaginary power piston. This means that the input power into the internal Stirling cycle refrigerator and the output power from the Vuilleumier cycle machine which is obtained secondarily as a shaft power are produced by the output power from the internal Stirling cycle engine.