Abstract: In one embodiment, a return flux linear alternator employs a magnet assembly that includes a pair of permanent ring magnets with opposing polarity and a pair of air gaps. The additional permanent ring and air gap complete a magnetic flux loop of the alternator rather than the magnet pole, as in traditional designs. An alternator coil assembly includes a pair of oppositely wound coil sections that each linearly move through a respective one of the pair of air gaps. In addition, the return flux linear alternator may employ a variety of structures to increase mechanical strength, including a reinforcement fabric, and a variety of structures to increase electrical efficiency, including a thermally conductive but electrically nonconductive spacer between the coil sections and multiple pairs of electrical leads.

Abstract: This invention provides a coil and magnet assembly that is operatively interconnected with an oscillating free piston that moves along an axis. A coil mounting disk is operatively connected to a coil assembly. A magnet assembly is mounted on a magnet base. The magnet assembly is coaxial with respect to the coil assembly. The coil assembly and the magnet assembly are in oscillating motion with respect to each other in conjunction with oscillating motion of the free piston. A spring assembly comprising a plurality springs, symmetrically positioned about the axis, extend between the magnet base and the coil mounting disk, so as to move in conjunction with the oscillating motion along the axis. At least some of the springs are conductive and electrically connect the mounting disk to the magnet base. The piston can reside in a casing that is part of either a two-stroke engine or a fluid pump.

Abstract: This invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing a power generating system particularly suitable for field use in remote locations, which is fuel-efficient, relatively quiet, tolerant of dust, capable of operating on low-grade logistics and diesel-like fuels and capable of generating between 500 W and 2 KW of continuous electrical power. This generating system employs a two-cycle MICE generator having a piston that operates within a cylinder, and an interconnected, axially moving piston shaft that oscillates an alternator coil within a magnetic core. The piston shaft is attached to, and resisted by, the free end of a strong spring with a second, opposing end fixed to the MICE casing. To control operation of the MICE generator a clipper circuit is employed with a set threshold to resolve peaks and an adjustable harshness for applying load to the coil based upon an amps/volt harshness setting.

Abstract: This invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing a power generating system particularly suitable for field use in remote locations, which is fuel-efficient, relatively quiet, tolerant of dust, capable of operating on low grade logistics and diesel-like fuels and capable of generating between 500 W and 2 KW of continuous electrical power. This generator employs a miniature internal combustion engine/generator (MICE) having a piston moving within a cylinder arranged for two-cycle operation, and an interconnected, axially arranged piston shaft that oscillates an alternator coil within a magnetic core. The piston shaft is opposed by a strong, multiple-helix spring. The cylinder head, in which the piston operates, is cooled by moving (electrically pumped) fluid in a cooling head, or by another heat-transfer mechanism. The MICE generator's intake arrangement includes a preheater heated by a heated fluid flow thereon.

Abstract: This invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing a power generating system particularly suitable for field use in remote locations, which is fuel-efficient, relatively quiet, tolerant of dust, capable of operating on low grade logistics and diesel-like fuels and capable of generating between 500 W and 2 KW of continuous electrical power. This generating system employs a two-cycle MICE generator having a piston that operates within a cylinder, and an interconnected, axially moving piston shaft that oscillates an alternator coil within a magnetic core. The piston shaft is attached to, and resisted by, the free end of a strong spring with a second, opposing end fixed to the MICE casing. To control operation of the MICE generator a dual clipper circuit is operatively connected with the alternator coil.

Abstract: A miniature, two cycle engine with a linear electrical generator is presented. The piston attaches to the spring and a moving coil is also attached to the spring and/or rod assembly distal from the cylinder head. The spring is formed with an integral end fitting from one piece of preferably titanium stock. A permanent magnet is arranged where the coil moves within the magnet air gap to produce electrical power. The system operates at the resonant frequency of the spring and active mass. A glow plug provides the ignition source and hydrocarbon fuel is used. The package is about an inch wide and about 2-3 inches long, and it weighs about 30 grams.