Phase II is proposed in the development of a new form of Stirling cryocooler which resolves fundamental problems associated with limited operating speed, high drive forces, and vibration which seriously hamper other forms of Stirling machines. This new form of cryocooler is compact, rugged, efficient, simple to control, and can be completely balanced to eliminate vibration. The design is readily scaleable to different capacities and temperatures for specific cryogenic or utilitarian freon-free refrigeration applications. Key innovations are the coupling rotating compression/expansion spaces through simple stationary regenerators, and coordination of thermodynamic and inertial phasing to allow complete balancing with a single counterbalance. In Phase I, the thermodynamic, mechanical, and fabrication feasibility have been confirmed, and a detailed prototype layout design for 10 W of refrigeration at 80 K has been derived which can be fabricated using readily available components, materials, and methods. The design is now ready for detailing, fabrication, and testing in Phase II of the development. allows for direct downloading of the control algorithm from the simulation code to the target processor. The single-board computer may then be used in test activities to rapidly evaluate various control concepts for enhancing the safety of Navy escape systems. packaging issues, and manufacture the sealants during Phase III.
Keywords: Refrigeration Stirling Non-Reciprocating Cryocooler Balanced Freon-Free Low-Vibration
