Computer program for a four-cylinder-Stirling-engine controls simulation. [MAINSE computer code]

A four-cylinder-Stirling-engine, transient-engine-simulation computer program is presented. The program is intended for controls analysis. The associated engine model has been simplified to shorten computer calculation time. The model includes engine mechanical drive dynamics and vehicle load effects. The computer program also includes subroutines that allow (1) acceleration of the engine by addition of hydrogen to the system and (2) braking of the engine by short circuiting of the working spaces. Subroutines to calculate degraded engine performance (e.g., due to piston ring and piston rod leakage) are provided. Input data required to run the program are described and flow charts are provided. The program is modular to allow easy modification of individual routines. Examples of steady-state and transient results are presented.