A Multi Simulation Model for Stirling and Vuilleumier Cycle Machines

The multi simulation model based on a so-alled isothermal analysis has been newly developed for the primary performance prediction of both Stirling (ST) cycle machines and Vuilleumier (VM) cycle machines, which are realized as regenerative and external-combustion heat engines. The calculated results are compared with those by 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 VM cycle machine is internally divided into a ST cycle engine and a ST cycle refrigerator which jointly own the imaginary power piston. This means that the input power into the internal ST cycle refrigerator and the output power from the VM cycle machine which is obtained secondarily as a shaft horsepower are produced by the output power from the internal ST cycle engine.