Experimental tests of GEM- Ocean's kite, an innovative patented submerged system for marine current energy production

Abstract

This paper presents some recent experimental results of towing tank tests on an innovative system configuration for clean energy applications. This concept has been already tested on a preliminary prototype model at the University of Naples. The original concept consists of a submerged floating body linked to the seabed by means of a tether. Electrical generators and auxiliary systems are housed within the hulls of the floating bodies. Two turbines are installed on a support structure exposed to the flow. This is the basic concept of what we call here the “GEM system” (Generatore Elettrico Marino, Marine Electrical Generator) or “Ocean's kite” configuration.