Fecal Waste Management Unit

Abstract : A novel waste management unit for the collection, sampling, drying, and storage of fecal wastes in a life-support simulator, or aerospace flights has been designed, developed, and tested. The unit collects the feces, which are subsequently air dried at ambient temperature an pressure, and stored. The unit is designed for use in a weightless environment yet has the convenience of operation of an ordinary terrestrial toilet. Other design features include measures to prevent fecal contamination or odors from entering the space cabin, low power requirements, and minimum loss of cabin air overboard. Weight of the unit is about 50 lb. (Author)