Dynamic Model
To obtain a mathematically-based dynamic model of the Stirling Engine we used a simulation program called ESL (ESA Simulation Language). This language was developed in the late 1980's by the European Space Agency and is capable of producing graphical and numerical results of a complex dynamic system. To further our understanding of how changes in the design of the engine would affect the thermodynamic efficiency, a computer simulated dynamic model was to be produced.
To construct and run an ESL model a notepad file is created with all the relevant equations and inputs which is then run in ESL through command
prompt.
Fortunately a Stirling Engine simulation had already been produced by fourth year MEng student - Richard Wood. All that had to be done with the simulation was to match the geometry and relative inputs with our physical model and operating conditions.
The theoretical principals upon which the model is based are explained in the following page:
To construct and run an ESL model a notepad file is created with all the relevant equations and inputs which is then run in ESL through command
prompt.
Fortunately a Stirling Engine simulation had already been produced by fourth year MEng student - Richard Wood. All that had to be done with the simulation was to match the geometry and relative inputs with our physical model and operating conditions.
The theoretical principals upon which the model is based are explained in the following page:
The information extracted using the program to help us in our engine design and usage is summarised on the page below: