Evaluation Of Displacement-time Characteristics Of Stirling Engine Drive Mechanisms

Mechanical efficiency is the single most important factor in the successful development of Stirling prime movers. The ideal displacement time characteristics of the Stirling cycle underlines the crucial form role of the mechanical configuration. The relative merits of the mechanical configurations tried out so far in Stirling prime movers is critically examined in the present paper. Dead volume is not considered in the present analysis. The scope for improving specific work output by alternate drive mechanisms is discussed.