Counter rotating hydrokinetic turbine arrays for ocean energy conversion

In this paper, arrays of Savonius hydrokinetic turbines are investigated for operation in sub-optimal tidal conditions. The placement and rotation sequence of turbines in the array are investigated to optimize the overall power output. Transient numerical simulations are developed to represent the vortex shedding and capturing by subsequent turbines to investigate the potential to improve the array's performance by strategic placement and rotational sequence of the turbines. The results show that turbine with asymmetrical/counter positioning provide better performance than symmetrical blades.