Subaquatic power generation systems

Abstract

The disclosure features subaquatic power generation systems and methods of their use in bodies of water. Some implementations feature a subaquatic power generation system that includes (a) a housing having an inlet, an outlet, and, between the inlet and outlet, a channel through which water can pass in a fluid flow direction, and a power generating area defining a watertight and airtight chamber configured to provide an air pocket within the housing when the housing is fully submersed in water; and (b) a waterwheel disposed within the power generating area such that a longitudinal axis of the waterwheel is oriented generally horizontally and generally perpendicular to the fluid flow direction, an upper portion of the waterwheel is disposed within the chamber, and a lower portion of the waterwheel is disposed within the channel and acted upon by fluid flow through the channel.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.