Temperature Controlled Enhanced Human Remains Transfer Case

Current practice for return of human remains from theatres of operation consists of packing the remains in a human remains pouch and then in an uninsulated aluminum-construction case. Ice is used for maintaining temperature, but it often is not sufficient for the flights of up to ten hours. This proposal addresses the need for an improved human remains transfer case, which will be insulated to reduce thermal load and will incorporate a cooling system and auxiliary thermal storage system to maintain optimum human remains temperature. The transfer case design will use best practices from design of refrigerators, combined with ruggedization and technology improvements to meet the stringent size, weight, and performance requirements. TIAX will design the transfer case during Phase I and will work with DRS Sustainment Systems, Inc. to fabricate and test prototypes during Phase II, leading to ramp up of production at the end of the project.