Method and apparatus for waste collection and storage
US5005457A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 10, 1989 |
| Grant date | Apr 9, 1991 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 10, 2009 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T83/896
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus for collection of fecal matter designed to operate efficiently in a zero gravity environment. The system comprises a waste collection area within a body having a seat opening. Low pressure within the waste collection area directs fecal matter away from the user's buttocks and prevents the escape of undesirable gases. The user actuates a piston covered with an absorbent pad that sweeps through the waste collection area to collect fecal matter, scrub the waste collector area, press the waste against an end of the waste collection area and retracts, leaving the used pad. Multiple pads are provided on the piston to accommodate multiple uses of the system. Also a valve allows air to be drawn through the body, which valve will not be plugged with fecal matter. A sheet feeder feeds fresh sheets of absorbent pad to a face of the piston with each actuation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.