Waste Collector Operation in STS

The Shuttle Orbiter Waste Collector Subsystem (WCS) is an integrated multi- functional zero gravity operational device utilized to collect and process biowastes from both males and females, wash water from the Personal Hygiene Station (PHS), gases from Wet Trash Stowage, water from the Extravehicular Maneuvering Unit (EMU), and emesis filled bags.

The first flight of the Space Transportation System (STS-1) revealed several problems mostly related to unexpected amounts of cabin debris. This paper discusses the process of problem definition and resolution, and the results from subsequent flights. Additionally, detailed descriptions of the system in normal and redundant modes of operation are presented.