Coupling Two Rotary-Type Actuators

This chapter presents the first example of the combination of two actuators of different volumes with which the principle of adding an expansion work can be realized. The two semi-rotary actuators are mechanically coupled and describe an oscillatory motion. Then the oscillatory motion is transmitted to an electric generator through a so-called motion rectifier. The structure of the new system is presented with the control valves and control circuitry. The different variables of the system as pressure, torques, and mechanical work are calculated by simulation. The efficiency of the new system is calculated and compared with the efficiency of a single actuator without expansion. The principle of adding an expansion work with semi-rotary actuators is then presented but with one actuator only where the expansion occurs in the same and unique chamber. Efficiency, torque waveform and produced mechanical work are presented, as well the control circuits. The power reversibility of a system using semi-rotary actuators is addressed, and a solution with a crankshaft is studied. 

Keywords: Adiabatic and Isothermal Expansion, Expansion Work, Power Reversibility, Semi-rotary Actuators, Torques.