The role of computerized modeling and simulation in the development of life support system technologies

Computerized modeling and simulation (CMAS) is a tool that can greatly reduce both the time and cost of technology development. CMAS refers to computer methods for correlating, storing, and retrieving property data for chemical species and for solving the phenomenological equations of physical/chemical processes. Furthermore, process conditions based on properties of materials, mass, and energy balances; equipment sizing based on rate processes; and the governing equations for unit operations can be determined using CMAS. CMAS systems can be used to evaluate an LSS process with minimal requirements for laboratory experimentation. A CMAS model is presented for a vapor compression distillation system(VCD) for reclaiming water from urine.