Quasi-static processes in energy conversion statics

Abstract

A general treatment of quasi-static processes in the field of energy conversion is developed. The approach is based on a unified theory of energy conversion statics as established in reference 1 with specific emphasis on electromechanical conversion processes.

A number of general theorems are developed dealing with reversible and irreversible processes. Maximum work processes are deduced using the dissipation law and a general Carnot type cycle is established. Stability criteria for processes involving any number of coupled sources are set up using energy minimum theorems. The general coverage of the approach is demonstrated with specific case examples involving electromechanical transducers.