franchise-star-trek-tng-technical-manual1

13.5 FOOD REPLICATION SYSTEM13.5.1 Food replication systemMain computerprovides storedmolecular matrixdataOpticaldata netControl pador voice pickupWasterecyclingOpticaldata netRaw foodstock storagePhase transitionchamberdematerializesraw materialReplicatordistrib netReplicatorterminalMatter stream Molecular pattern data Computer communications path13.5 FOOD REPLICATION SYSTEMFood service on board the Enterprise is provided by amolecular replication system that can instantly recreate any ofthousands of food selections at a moment's notice. Thissystem employs transporter-based matter replication whichcan produce, with almost total fidelity, nearly 4,500 types offoods, which are stored in computer memory.The heart of the food replication system is a pair ofmolecular matrix matter replicators located on Decks 12 and34. These devices dematerialize a measured quantity of rawmaterial in a manner similar to that of a standard transporter.Unlike a standard transporter, however, no molecular imagingscanners are used to derive analog pattern data of the originalmaterial. Instead, a sophisticated quantum geometry transformationalmatrix field is used to modify the matter stream toconform to a digitally stored molecular pattern matrix.The matter stream is then routed through a network ofwaveguide conduits to any one of hundreds of replicatorterminals located throughout the spacecraft. Such terminalsare located in most living quarters as well as in variouslounges and common dining areas. The molecular patternmatrix controls the rematerialization process at the replicationterminal, so that the finished product is a virtually identicalcopy of the original dish.The raw food stock material is an organic particulatesuspension, a combination of long-chain molecules that hasbeen formulated for minimum replication power requirements.When dematerialized, using a slightly modified phase transitioncoil chamber, the resulting matter stream statisticallyrequires the least quantum transformational manipulation toreplicate most finished foodstuffs. This "transmutation" ofmatter is a modern scientific miracle, but the use of this rawmaterial keeps the energy cost within reason.Although the raw food stock is normally replaced atstarbase resupply, osmotic and electrolytic fractioning ofwastewater allows up to 82% of food stock to be reclaimed•13.5.2 Food replication terminal (typical)