Stirling Engine for Tactical Army Application

The U.S. military, in transitioning to a more mobile and networked Future Force, has increasing needs for small, quiet, lightweight, reliable power systems to supply energy for a variety of mission needs while minimizing logistical impact. Increased need for clean, portable, efficient power generation is punctuated by the new systems being developed for the Future Combat System, including the Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR), and Land Warrior platforms. The hardware deployed in these new computerized technologies requires premium power delivered reliably. Infinia Corporation proposes to develop a 5 kW multi-cylinder, free-piston Stirling engine (MCFPSE) that combines the benefits of high power density kinematic Stirling engines with free-piston longevity and reliability. This new and unique combination of proven, mature elements provides a low-risk approach to provide high power levels in a compact package with high efficiency and high reliability.