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We usually find applications of rotary induction generator, direct-drive tubular linear permanent-magnet generator, etc. for the mechanoelectrical conversion process within Stirling microcogenerator systems. This paper presents the design optimization investigation for a direct-drive tubular linear induction generator for a dual free-piston Stirling microcogenerator system. On the one hand, a high oscillating frequency and a relatively long piston's travel bring about a very high acceleration of the generator's moving part, up to 1018 m/s 2 . On the other hand, the tubular linear induction generator offers many interesting assets in this application: low weight mover, appearance of levitation force, no mechanical spring, low mechanical losses, no cogging force, easy manufacture, very low investment and maintenance cost, and so on. However, the tubular linear induction generator is sparsely used, because of its apriori relatively low energetic efficiency. This paper presents a sizing optimization approach for maximizing the performance and demonstrates that, with an astute arrangement of electrical devices, the tubular linear induction generator can constitute a well adapted solution for free-piston Stirling microcogenerator systems.

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Bond graph software can simulate bond graph models without the user needing to manually derive equations. This offers the power to model larger and more complex systems than in the past. Multibond graphs (those with vector bonds) offer a compact model which further eases handling multibody systems. Although multibond graphs can be simulated successfully, the use of vector bonds can present difficulties. In addition, most qualitative, bond graph–based exploitation relies on the use of scalar bonds. This article discusses the main methods for simulating bond graphs of multibody systems, using a graphical software platform. The transformation between models with vector and scalar bonds is presented. The methods are then compared with respect to both time and accuracy, through simulation of two benchmark models. This article is a tutorial on the existing methods for simulating three-dimensional rigid and holonomic multibody systems using bond graphs and discusses the difficulties encountered. It then proposes and adapts methods for simulating this type of system directly from its bond graph within a software package. The value of this study is in giving practical guidance to modellers, so that they can implement the adapted method in software.