URINE STOWAGE SYSTEM FOR SPACECRAFT

摘要

A waste handling system includes a waste processing unit that includes a urine inlet configured to receive urine from a urinal. A pumping element is fluidly connected between the urine inlet and the urine outlet. A distribution system with a differential pressure valve selectively fluidly connects the urine outlet to first and second urine storage containers. The distribution system includes a switching system that selectively fluidly connects the urinal to the first and second urinal storage containers in response to an input. Each urine storage containers includes a cavity with a bag. The bag is movable between first and second volumes. An electrical switch communicates with the bag and includes first and second contact elements biased apart from one another in a first condition that corresponds to the first volume. The first and second contact elements electrically engage one another in a second condition corresponding to the second volume.