Human Productivity in the Space Station Program: The Impact of the Environmental Control and Life Support System

The Environmental Control and Life Support (ECLS) System can be a major contributor to Space Station productivity through creative approaches to analysis and design, installation and maintenance. Emulation/simulation computer modeling can enhance ECLSS design, performance predictions and anomaly investigations. Innovative design approaches can yield an integrated ECLSS that provides a more manageable work package, improves ground processing and crew operations. Productivity can also be enhanced by proper attention to equipment design and integration, especially in terms of accessibility for maintenance and the selected level for on-orbit replacement.