Universal Commode Processing Unit Single-Motor Waste Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waste processing systems in micro-gravity environments, such as space vehicles, are inefficient due to the high volume, weight, and cost associated with multiple motor-driven devices for fan and separator operations.
Innovation Solution
A waste collection unit utilizing a common motor with a speed reduction device to drive both a fan and a liquid-gas separator, reducing the need for multiple motors and optimizing rotational speeds to minimize size and prevent frothing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple motor-driven devices (fans and separator) are used separately, then each device can operate independently, but the system consumes more volume, weight, and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple motor-driven devices (fan and separator) into a single integrated unit driven by one motor. The motor drives a common shaft that connects both the fan and separator through gear mechanisms, eliminating the need for separate motors and reducing overall system weight while maintaining independent operational control through separate drive trains.
Solution Approach 2:
The single motor and common shaft configuration enables one driving unit to perform multiple functions by sequentially or simultaneously driving both the fan and separator through the gear mechanisms. This multi-functional design reduces the number of components needed while maintaining the operational capabilities of each individual device.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple motor-driven devices are used separately, then each device can be optimized independently, but the system occupies more volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the fan and separator into a single integrated housing with a common shaft configuration. The gear mechanisms are arranged to allow compact positioning of both devices within one volume, reducing the overall space required compared to separate mounting while preserving the ability to optimize each device's performance characteristics.
3Weight of stationary object
If a common motor drives both fan and separator, then volume and weight are reduced, but rotational speed control becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs variable ratio gear mechanisms that allow dynamic adjustment of rotational speed transmission from the common shaft to each driven device. This enables the fan and separator to operate at their respective optimal speeds independently, while the overall system remains compact due to the shared motor and integrated housing.
4Productivity
If high-speed fan operation is used, then waste processing efficiency improves, but frothing may occur in the separator
Solution Approach 1:
The variable ratio gear mechanisms enable independent speed control of the fan and separator, allowing the fan to operate at high speeds for efficient waste processing while the separator operates at lower speeds to prevent frothing. This dynamic speed adjustment resolves the conflict between processing efficiency and frothing prevention.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration reduces the overall volume, weight, and cost of the system while maintaining efficient waste processing by enabling high-speed fan operation and low-speed separator operation, effectively managing urine separation and odor neutralization.
Implementation Method 1
A speed reduction device is coupled to the first and second members. The speed reduction device is configured to provide a rotational output speed that is less than the rotational input speed.
Implementation Method 2
A liquid-gas separator is coupled to a second member configured to provide a rotational output speed
Implementation Method 3
A fan is coupled to the motor by a first member configured to provide a rotational input speed
Data Source
AI summary
A waste collection unit includes a motor supported by a housing. A fan is coupled to the motor by a first member configured to provide a rotational input speed. A liquid-gas separator is coupled to a second member configured to provide a rotational output speed. A speed reduction device is coupled to the first and second members. The speed reduction device is configured to provide a rotational output speed that is less than the rotational input speed. In another embodiment, the fan is arranged in the housing and is directly coupled to the motor by the first member. The fan includes first and second sides respectively including first and second pumping elements. A first waste collection line fluidly connects a urinal to the first side. A second waste collection line fluidly connects a fecal storage container to the second side.