Search Results

The device described in this paper is a flat sheet membrane module that removes humidity from the space suit breathing loop by venting it to the vacuum of space. The module consists of alternating vacuum layer assemblies and vent layer assemblies separated by solid polymer membrane sheets. The module is designed to optimize volume and pressure drop at a given vent flow rate and water removal rate. Both Hamilton Standard and the NASA Johnson Space Center tested the module under varying EMU flow and humidity conditions; the results of the testing are presented in the paper. The module met or exceeded all of the design goals set forth in the program statement of work, including volume, pressure drop and water removal rate.

An Extravehicular Mobility Unit (EMU) Portable Life Support Subsystem (PLSS) has among its primary functions requirements to remove metabolically generated heat and respiratory byproducts to maintain an atmosphere which is both physiologically safe and comfortable for the Extravehicular Activity (EVA) crew person. The EMU thermal control system interacts with the crew member through the Liquid Cooling and Ventilation Garment (LCVG), which circulates the ventilation gas to remove carbon dioxide, humidity, and trace contaminants, and the cooling water to remove metabolically produced heat. To maintain thermal comfort, the crew member may vary the LCVG inlet water temperature. The thermal interaction between the EMU and the crew member is very complex and highly dependent upon the individual crew member's cooling preferences and the exterior environment.