This invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing a
power generating system particularly suitable for field use in remote
locations, which is fuel-efficient, relatively quiet, tolerant of dust,
capable of operating on low grade logistics and diesel-like fuels and
capable of generating between 500 W and 2 KW of continuous electrical
power. This generating system employs a two-cycle MICE generator having a
piston that operates within a cylinder, and an interconnected, axially
moving piston shaft that oscillates an alternator coil within a magnetic
core. The piston shaft is attached to, and resisted by, the free end of a
strong spring with a second, opposing end fixed to the MICE casing. To
control operation of the MICE generator a dual clipper circuit is
operatively connected with the alternator coil. The clipper circuit
senses the current and at least two voltage levels and applies at least
two respective loads in response to the sensed voltage levels and current
so as to (a) prevent overstroke of the piston and (b) control power
output of the alternator coil. The MICE generator also includes a fuel
intake preheater that selectively heats fuel/air mixture entering the
casing and a controller that senses load on the alternator coil varies a
level of preheating to thereby control a level of power output.