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Completed TRL 5 (started at 3, targeting 5)
The Space Food Systems Laboratory's (SFSL) current Bulk Overwrap Bag (BOB) package, while simple and effective, leaves room for improvement. Currently, BOBs are sized to fit in Cargo Transfer Bags (CTB). On orbit, however, the pantry setup utilizes several Collapsible US Food Containers (CUFC). In addition, the entirety of the menu must be overwrapped with an aluminum laminate package in order to meet the oxygen and water vapor permeability requirements of an 18 month shelf life requirement. The development of a Phase II BOB could alleviate several or all of these issues in a cost, mass, and volume sensitive manner by changing the size and shape of the BOB as well as potentially finding an alternative material with sufficient barrier properties to eliminate the secondary overwraps.
The end result of this work will be the basis on which a mass-producible Bulk Overwrap Bag will be developed. Ideally, forward work will finalize an optimized design with input from the manufacturer.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 5) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
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