Project Title:

Trash Compactor Development: Space Station

12.05-8152
Trash Compactor Development:  Space Station
Johnson Engineering Corp.
3055 Center Green Drive
Boulder
CO
80301-5406
Ciciora
John A.
17563
49,993
JSC

Abstract:

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.