Human waste collection system, for zero-gravity conditions, including user selectable modes for collecting liquid waste, solid waste and menses
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waste management systems in spacecraft are uncomfortable for females and require extra training to handle menses disposal, necessitating a user-friendly and comfortable system for both liquid and solid waste collection.
Innovation Solution
A human waste collection system with selectable modes for collecting liquid waste, solid waste, and menses, featuring a basin with a flexible skirted bowl, suction system, bidet, and UV light source, allowing for user-selectable operation via tactile or virtual interfaces, and accommodating different bodily functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional waste management system is used in spacecraft, then liquid waste can be collected, but it is uncomfortable for females and requires extra training for menses disposal
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically changes its configuration by deploying or retracting the flexible skirted bowl based on the selected mode (urination vs. defecation/menses). This dynamic adaptation allows the same system to comfortably accommodate different user needs and waste types without requiring separate systems or extensive training.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes its physical parameters by altering the position and configuration of the flexible skirted bowl. When deployed, it creates a contained space for menses and solid waste collection; when retracted, it allows for urination. This parameter change enables the system to adapt to different operational modes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible skirted bowl is deployed over the basin, then menses and solid waste can be collected, but liquid waste flow is blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The flexible skirted bowl is designed to be dynamically deployable and retractable. It is deployed when menses or solid waste collection is needed to create containment, and retracted when urination is needed to allow liquid waste flow. This dynamic behavior resolves the contradiction by providing the right configuration for each specific function.
3Ease of operation
If multiple waste collection modes are integrated into one system, then user comfort and ease of use are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is designed as a multi-functional device that can handle urination, defecation, and menses disposal through a single integrated interface. The flexible skirted bowl and suction system serve multiple purposes depending on their configuration and activation mode, reducing the need for separate systems while maintaining user comfort.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically switches between different waste collection modes based on user input through the controller. Once the user selects a mode, the system self-adjusts by deploying or retracting the flexible skirted bowl and activating the appropriate collection mechanism, reducing the operational burden on the user despite the system's complexity.
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
The system provides enhanced comfort and ease of use by enabling simultaneous urination and defecation, reducing the need for consumable wipes, and ensuring efficient waste collection and sanitation.
Implementation Method 1
the suction system is active to apply suction to the first suction conduit for suctioning urine
Implementation Method 2
an air mover that provides an air stream into the basin, adjacent to the upper end of the basin
Implementation Method 3
a UV light source within the basin, lid or seat, wherein the modes of operation include a fourth mode for sanitizing the mesh funnel
Data Source
AI summary
A human waste collection system having a basin defining a basin cavity and a lower end that is configured for being positioned against a floor and an upper end that is displaced further from the plane than the lower end; a storage bag system disposed in the basin cavity; a seat disposed at the upper end of the basin, the seat having a lid; a suction system having a first suction conduit extending into the basin cavity, adjacent to the upper end of the basin; a controller having a user interface that has user engageable features to select between operation modes including a first mode for removing menses and solid waste and a second mode for removing urine, wherein: in the first mode, menses and solid waste is collected in the storage bag; and in the second mode, the suction system suctions urine.