SBIR 95-1 SOLICITATION

PROJECT SUMMARY

Proposal Number:

15.04-9591

Project Title:

ADVANCED THERMAL STORAGE AND CONTROL TECHNOLOGY FOR SPACE STATION BIOPROCESSING

Technical Abstract:

A critical element of the commercial space processing infrastructure is a reusable, thermally controlled enclosure that can provide a conditioned environment for the process, storage, and transportation of biological samples in both orbiter and space station applications. Our Thermally Controlled Facility (TCF) accommodates life science, medical, and biotechnology space processing applications, providing "smart" systems to maximize process control and facilitate data storage. Three key technologies are necessary to complete conceptual design of our innovative TCF: a microprocessor-based data acquisition and control system that is intuitively easy to program, control, and operate, both on the ground and in-orbit, and full telemetry capability to accommodate downlink, as well as real time uplink; a novel thermal storage system that uses phase change materials to maintain desired internal temperatures for extended periods while unpowered; and, an innovative electrical power supply module that automatically and transparently switches to accommodate orbiter or space station voltage. Our ingenious technology is important in solving current thermal enclosure problems. When combined with our advanced thermoelectric systems, energy-efficient volume-saving insulation, and ultra-lightweight enclosure materials, this technology insures that our TCF will be the next generation thermally controlled enclosure.

Potential Commercial Applications:

SHOT's innovative, advanced technology, has excellent commercial potential for both space and Earth-based applications. For space bioprocessing, life science, and gravitational biology research applications, our technology will be vital to advancing the biotechnology hardware infrastructure that is critical for commercial space biomedical research and processing opportunities. In turn, space processes such as protein crystal growth, cell culturing, and cell separation and purification may soon provide a better understanding of and new treatments for specific human disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, diabetes, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease. Ground-based applications of our advanced technology include refrigeration and thermal storage systems and components important to private sector markets of small capacity refrigerators used in recreational vehicles, marine vessels, hotels, dormitories, remote vacation homes, and third world countries. SHOT has also identified a specific market niche for its technology with a private sector partner currently marketing thermal storage and transport containers for shipping temperature sensitive products such as vaccines, sensitive pharmaceuticals, and donor organs through the World Health Organization.

Name and Address of Offeror:

SHOT, Inc.
5605 Featherengill Road
Floyd Knobs, IN 47119