This is a type of axial engine, a cam engine.[1] People have been trying designs along this line since at least 1926. A recent version was from Axial Vector Engine, which was pushing their stock around 2006 and is now gone.[2]
The problem with this class of designs is that they apply large forces to small parts.
The most likely source of trouble is the bearings of those little wheels at the base of each piston. Those have to take the full force of the explosion on each cycle. That doesn't mean it's impossible, but it means it's a long way from the first running engine to one with a long, useful, low-maintenance life.
If it's putting out the power you need with good efficiency just gear it for whatever torque you want for the application.
The idea that torque and power represent different qualities out of an engine comes from manufacturers quoting just peak torque and peak power, giving you two different points on the torque and power curve. A complete torque or power curve is much more useful. Either works and which is just a matter of preference as you can just calculate the other from the same data.
Yes those tiny new engines (also liquidpiston engine) would make a good range-extender for electric drivetrains, also thinking semi-trucks and big equipment. Wherever you need big torque/power to get going, but once rolling 35hp is enough to keep rolling.
This is a type of axial engine, a cam engine.[1] People have been trying designs along this line since at least 1926. A recent version was from Axial Vector Engine, which was pushing their stock around 2006 and is now gone.[2]
The problem with this class of designs is that they apply large forces to small parts. The most likely source of trouble is the bearings of those little wheels at the base of each piston. Those have to take the full force of the explosion on each cycle. That doesn't mean it's impossible, but it means it's a long way from the first running engine to one with a long, useful, low-maintenance life.
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Axial_engine
[2] https://web.archive.org/web/20090208215443/http://www.axialv...