Generation characteristics and power quality control of a free piston linear generator considering system uncertainty

Yuguo Ma, Huihua Feng, Boru Jia, Jian Li, Yidi Wei, Chang Liu, Jiayu Wang and Shuojian Wei

Energy, 2025, vol. 324, issue C

Abstract: The free piston linear generator (FPLG) is a compact energy converter with high power density and multi-fuel adaptability, yet its practical application is hindered by system uncertainties and harmonic distortions caused by nonlinear piston dynamics. This study establishes an integrated thermodynamic-electromagnetic simulation model, validated against experimental data, to analyze generation characteristics. Results reveal that increasing operating frequency amplifies piston velocity harmonics, leading to high total harmonic distortion (THD >27 %) in induced voltages. Stochastic combustion perturbations further quantify system uncertainties, including fluctuating cylinder pressure, piston velocity, and compression ratio. Compared to uncontrolled rectification (voltage ripple: 40.89 %), controlled rectification significantly improves power quality, achieving minimal ripple (6.87 %) and near-unity power factor (0.985). To address these challenges, innovative control strategies are proposed: active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) replaces the voltage outer-loop PI controller for robust regulation under uncertainties, while dual-layer sequential model predictive control (SMPC) optimizes current tracking with a 63.86 % reduction in switching frequency. The ADRC-SMPC framework minimizes overshoot during abrupt load/voltage changes and maintains comparable stabilization time, demonstrating superior adaptability to dynamic operating conditions. These advancements establish a robust framework for stabilizing FPLG energy output, advancing its viability as a high-efficiency range extender for electric vehicles.

Keywords: Free piston linear generator; Generation characterization; Controlled rectification; Active disturbance rejection control; Model predictive control (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:energy:v:324:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225015038

DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.135861

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