The purpose of this project is to test the feasibilitv of adapting a manually-operated trash compactor designed by Johnson Engineering Corporation (JE) for use on Space Station. Disposal of solid trash presents a problem on board all spacecraft. This problrem increases in proportion to crew size and mission duration. Space Station planning requires that this trash be compacted and stored for return to Earth on board periodic supply craft. Since the trash will include food scraps and leftovers, provisions for deodorizing, bacteria control, and liquid containment are required. This project includes system study to determine design requirements, design analyses, trade studies, and testing. An existing working prototype design patented by Johnson Engineering and derived from Space Shuttle Habitability studies will be used as a test bed to gather design data. Manual operation offers major advantages: (1) operating power is not required; (2) weight savings result from elimination of heavy electric motors; and (3) periodic operation of the manual system provides beneficial exercise for astronauts. A Phase I Final Project Report will be prepared summarizing study and test results, documenting the selected design and recommending work to be undertaken in Phase II.STATUS: Phase I Only
