Investigation of a thermo-acoustically driven linear alternator

This paper presents a simplified theoretical model of a standing wave thermo-acoustically driven electromagnetic linear alternator. Results from the theoretical model are compared with an experimental device in order to evaluate the accuracy of the model. The measured impedance and phase response of the linear alternator show distinct evidence of a thermo-acoustic interaction which is consistent with the predictions of the model. The measured results show that significant mechanical loss is present in the system which prevents the rig from self-starting. High diaphragm stiffness and low suspension loss are identified as key alternator design parameters.