This paper focuses on mathematical modeling, development, and experimental evaluation of a novel active free piston Stirling engine (AFPSE). First, working principles of the proposed AFPSE are described and its advantages are introduced. Then, a comprehensive mathematical model of the proposed Mechatronic system is presented using kinematic, dynamic, thermodynamic, heat transfer, and electrical equations. The Schmidt's theory assumptions are used throughout the modeling scheme except for finite heat transfer and imperfect regeneration. Next, a systematic way to estimate the gas temperature in the expansion and compression spaces of the engine is presented taking into account the imperfect regeneration and finite heat transfer in the presented converter. Moreover, the engine performance, as well as the resonant frequency of the.active converter, is investigated through simulation. Finally, the proposed AFPSE is developed and primarily tested. The obtained practical results clearly demonstrate the feasibility of generating power (i.e. 7.1 W) through thermal excitation of a one degree-of-freedom (1-DOF) dynamic system with its resonant frequency (i.e. 9.2 Hz). Furthermore, it is found that the experimental measurements are in an acceptable agreement with the simulation outcomes of the analytical model through which validity of the mathematical scheme is affirmed. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.