Abstract: A roller bearing sub-assembly can include a first mounting portion, a second mounting portion spaced apart from the first mounting portion, a first roller disposed between the first and second mounting portions and straps wrapped partially around different portions of the first roller. The first mounting portion, second mounting portion, first roller and straps are configured such that the first and second mounting portions are moveable relative to each other along a selected direction for a distance that is approximately equal to a circumference of the first roller in opposite directions from a mid-stroke position. Linear roller bearing assemblies and methods of forming linear roller bearing assemblies are also disclosed, as are multi-cylinder Stirling engines and a thermal energy recovery system.

Abstract: A roller bearing sub-assembly can include a first mounting portion, a second mounting portion spaced apart from the first mounting portion, a first roller disposed between the first and second mounting portions and straps wrapped partially around different portions of the first roller. The first mounting portion, second mounting portion, first roller and straps are configured such that the first and second mounting portions are moveable relative to each other along a selected direction for a distance that is approximately equal to a circumference of the first roller in opposite directions from a mid-stroke position. Linear roller bearing assemblies and methods of forming linear roller bearing assemblies are also disclosed, as are multi-cylinder Stirling engines and a thermal energy recovery system.

Abstract: Linear roller bearing assemblies can include a hub, a collar around the hub and roller bearing sub-assemblies disposed in a radial pattern around the hub. The roller bearing sub-assemblies can guide linear movement of the hub relative to the collar along a selected direction. Each roller bearing sub-assembly can include a roller and straps wrapped partially around the roller. Each strap is connected to at least one of the hub and the collar. And at least one of the straps can be connected to the roller while at least one of the straps can be circumferentially free of the roller. The hub and collar are moveable relative to each other along the selected direction for a distance that is approximately half of a circumference of the roller. Methods of forming linear roller bearing assemblies are also disclosed, as are multi-cylinder Stirling engines and a thermal energy recovery system.

Abstract: Linear roller bearing assemblies can include a hub, a collar around the hub and roller bearing sub-assemblies disposed in a radial pattern around the hub. The roller bearing sub-assemblies can guide linear movement of the hub relative to the collar along a selected direction. Each roller bearing sub-assembly can include a roller and straps wrapped partially around the roller. Each strap is connected to at least one of the hub and the collar. And at least one of the straps can be connected to the roller while at least one of the straps can be circumferentially free of the roller. The hub and collar are moveable relative to each other along the selected direction for a distance that is approximately half of a circumference of the roller. Methods of forming linear roller bearing assemblies are also disclosed, as are multi-cylinder Stirling engines and a thermal energy recovery system.

Abstract: A free piston Stirling cycle machine is illustrated by an engine that utilizes an axially movable displacer subjected to working gas pressures. A primary hydraulic circuit hydrostatically couples a displacer drive rod integral with the displacer to a counterbalance illustrated in the form of a scotch yoke. The counterbalance stabilizes and controls the Stirling cycle engine by constraining the displacer's reciprocating axial motion in a repetitive pattern. A throttling valve interposed in the primary hydraulic fluid circuit is used to adjustably resist displacer motion as required by engine operating conditions. A secondary hydraulic circuit is provided together with a bellows assembly between the working gas and power pistons to convert changes in working gas pressure to usable power output in the form of pumped hydraulic fluid.