Mobile communication system employing active bandwidth management

Abstract

A mobile communication system employing active bandwidth management is disclosed. A mobile communication system for transmitting data to one or more satellite resources over a wireless connection includes one or more processors and a memory coupled to the processors. The memory stores data into a database and stores program code that, when executed by the processors, causes the mobile communication system to receive a primary service data stream and a secondary service data stream and determine a bandwidth utilization efficiency of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system and the one or more satellite resources. In response to determining that the wireless connection has an available margin, the primary service data stream is combined with the secondary service data stream to create an aggregated data packet. In response to determining that the aggregated data packet is less than or equal to a size of the available margin, the mobile communication system transmits the aggregated data packet over the wireless connection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a mobile communication system. More specifically, this disclosure relates to a mobile communication system employing active bandwidth management when transmitting two or more service data streams to one or more satellite resources via a wireless communication network. Background Technology

[0002] All digital communication systems, such as cellular and satellite communication systems, comprise several basic components. Specifically, a digital communication system includes a data source and / or data destination, a modulator and / or demodulator, a radio frequency (RF) up / down converter, and an antenna with an associated antenna controller. The differences in specific components of a digital communication system are based on the modulation type employed by the particular communication system and the channel access mechanism used in a multi-user environment. The specific type of antenna employed by a digital communication system also depends on the specific application. For example, satellite communication systems typically employ highly directional antennas, which concentrate RF energy in a specific direction. In contrast, omnidirectional antennas concentrate RF energy in all directions and can be used in applications such as, but not limited to, cellular networks.

[0003] In one example, a broadband satellite communication system includes a ground earth station, a satellite, and a remote terminal physically mounted on an aircraft. The remote terminal on the aircraft uses a satellite modem and manager, referred to as a ModMan. However, the ModMan is customized to host a specific modem card. In other words, the ModMan can only support a single, specific antenna and bandwidth, which is extremely limited and can cause problems. For example, once the remote terminal is installed on the aircraft, if the airline eventually decides to change the specific bandwidth or antenna, it will be necessary to replace the remote terminal. Furthermore, replacing the terminal also requires recertification. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to several aspects, a mobile communication system for transmitting data to one or more satellite resources via a wireless connection is disclosed. The mobile communication system includes one or more processors and a memory coupled to the one or more processors. The memory stores data in a database and stores program code that, when executed by the one or more processors, causes the mobile communication system to receive a primary service data stream from one or more primary data sources and a secondary service data stream from one or more secondary data sources. The mobile communication system determines the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system and the one or more satellite resources. The mobile communication system also determines that the wireless connection has available headroom based on the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the one or more satellite resources. In response to determining that the wireless connection has available headroom, the mobile communication system combines the primary service data stream and the secondary service data stream to create an aggregated data packet. The mobile communication system compares the size of the aggregated data packet with the size of the available headroom of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system and the one or more satellite resources. The mobile communication system determines that the size of the aggregated data packet is less than or equal to the size of the available headroom. In response to determining that the aggregated data packet is less than or equal to the size of the available headroom, the aggregated data packet is transmitted via the wireless connection.

[0005] In another aspect, an aircraft is disclosed. The aircraft includes a mobile communication system configured to transmit data to one or more satellite resources via a wireless connection. The mobile communication system includes one or more antennas and two or more modems that communicate electronically with the one or more antennas. The mobile communication system also includes one or more processors that communicate electronically with the one or more antennas and the two or more modems, and a memory coupled to the one or more processors. The memory stores data in a database and stores program code that, when executed by the one or more processors, causes the mobile communication system to receive a primary service data stream from one or more primary data sources and a secondary service data stream from one or more secondary data sources. The mobile communication system determines the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system and the one or more satellite resources. The mobile communication system also determines that the wireless connection has an available margin based on the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the one or more satellite resources. In response to determining that the wireless connection has an available margin, the mobile communication system combines the primary service data stream and the secondary service data stream to create an aggregated data packet. The mobile communication system compares the size of the aggregated data packet with the size of the available margin of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system and the one or more satellite resources. The mobile communication system determines that the size of the aggregated data packet is less than or equal to the size of the available margin. In response to determining that the aggregated data packet is less than or equal to the available margin, the aggregated data packet is transmitted via the wireless connection.

[0006] In another aspect, a method for transmitting data to one or more satellite resources via a wireless connection through a mobile communication system is disclosed. The method includes receiving, by a computer, a primary service data stream from one or more primary data sources and a secondary service data stream from one or more secondary data sources. The method further includes determining, by the computer, the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system and the one or more satellite resources. The method also includes determining, by the computer, that the wireless connection has available margin based on the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the one or more satellite resources. In response to determining that the wireless connection has available margin, the method includes combining the primary service data stream and the secondary service data stream to create an aggregated data packet. The method further includes comparing the size of the aggregated data packet with the size of the available margin of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system and the one or more satellite resources. The method also includes determining that the size of the aggregated data packet is less than or equal to the size of the available margin. Finally, in response to determining that the aggregated data packet is less than or equal to the size of the available margin, the method includes transmitting the aggregated data packet via the wireless connection.

[0007] The features, functions, and advantages already discussed can be implemented independently in various embodiments or combined in other embodiments, further details of which can be seen in the following description and figures. Attached Figure Description

[0008] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure in any way.

[0009] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a disclosed mobile communication system installed on an aircraft according to an exemplary embodiment, wherein the mobile communication system wirelessly communicates with one or more satellite resources; Figure 2 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 The diagram shown includes a modem manager, antenna terminals, and modem units; Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the data packets of the primary service data stream and the secondary service data stream, along with their corresponding bandwidth slots, according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4A The illustration shows a main antenna and a secondary antenna for transmitting a main beam and a secondary beam, as well as a multi-beam antenna, according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 4B The illustration shows a method for managing according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 3 Alternative methods for utilizing available bandwidth are shown; Figure 5 The illustration shows a method for managing according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 3 Another method for showing available bandwidth; Figures 6A-6C The illustration depicts, according to an exemplary embodiment, a method for transmitting data via a mobile communication system to... Figure 1 An exemplary process flowchart of a method for transmitting data using one or more satellite resources is shown; and Figure 7 This is according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The computer system shown is a disclosed modem manager. Detailed Implementation

[0010] This disclosure relates to a mobile communication system employing active bandwidth management when transmitting two or more service data streams to one or more satellite resources via a wireless communication network. Specifically, the disclosed mobile communication system includes a modem manager that receives a primary service data stream from a primary data source and a secondary service data stream from a secondary data source, wherein the primary service data stream takes precedence over the secondary service data stream. In at least some instances, the primary service data stream may have limited bandwidth requirements. As a result, a significant available margin in the wireless connection between the satellite and the mobile communication system may become available. The disclosed mobile communication system determines whether there is unused or available margin in the wireless connection between the satellite and the mobile communication system. Specifically, the modem manager determines whether there is sufficient available margin in the wireless connection to support an aggregated packet including both the primary and secondary service data streams. If available margin exists, the aggregated packet is transmitted to the satellite via the wireless communication network. Thus, the modem manager supports two or more service data streams without introducing additional elements or costs.

[0011] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit this disclosure, application, or use.

[0012] refer to Figure 1 The illustration depicts a mobile communication system 10 for transmitting data to one or more satellite resources 14 via a wireless communication network. The mobile communication system 10 is located on a mobile platform 16. Figure 1In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the mobile platform 16 is an aircraft 18; however, it should be understood that the mobile platform 16 is any airborne, land-based, or sea-based platform that changes position. For example, in another embodiment, the mobile platform 16 is a sea vessel, train, car, or drone or autonomous aircraft. One or more satellite resources 14 can be any type of satellite used to receive data from the mobile platform 16, such as low Earth orbit (LEO) or geostationary equatorial orbit (GEO) satellites. It should be understood that the mobile communication system 10 transmits data to two or more satellite resources 14. However, because the mobile platform 16 changes position over time, the specific satellite resource 14 to which the mobile communication system 10 transmits data can change over time. The mobile communication system 10 transmits two or more types of service data streams to one or more satellite resources 14, where each service data stream corresponds to a unique communication profile. As described below, the disclosed mobile communication system 10 employs active bandwidth management to support two or more service data streams.

[0013] In one embodiment, two or more service data streams include a primary service data stream and a secondary service data stream, wherein the primary service data stream takes precedence over the secondary data stream. For example, in one embodiment, the primary service data stream includes aircraft information traffic or aircraft control traffic, while the secondary data stream includes entertainment traffic. However, it should be understood that this embodiment is merely exemplary in nature and may also include other or additional types of service data. In fact, although this disclosure describes only primary and secondary service data streams, it should be understood that for simplicity and clarity, only two data streams are mentioned, and the mobile communication system 10 may manage more than two data services.

[0014] Continue to refer to Figure 1The mobile communication system 10 includes an antenna terminal 20, a multi-channel modem unit 22, and a modem manager 26. The modem manager 26 communicates electronically with the modem unit 22 and the antenna terminal 20, and the modem unit 22 communicates electronically with the antenna terminal 20. In one example, an optional wireless communication link 24 may be used to electronically connect the antenna terminal 20 to the modem manager 26. In one embodiment, the wireless communication link 24 operates at a relatively low frequency, for example, an L-band switching network ranging from about 1 to about 2 GHz. The modem manager 26 communicates electronically with one or more primary data sources 30 and one or more secondary data sources 32. For example, in one embodiment, the modem manager 26 communicates electronically with one or more primary data sources 30 and one or more secondary data sources 32 via an Ethernet connection. The modem manager 26 receives primary service data streams from one or more primary data sources 30 and secondary service data streams from one or more secondary data sources 32.

[0015] One or more satellite resources 14 also wirelessly communicate with the antenna terminal 20 of the mobile communication system 10 via a wireless communication network. One or more satellite resources 14 also wirelessly communicate with one or more ground earth stations 36 via a wireless communication network. The ground earth stations 36 electronically communicate with the client 38 via a wireless communication network 39, where the wireless communication network 39 may be a terrestrial internet. In one embodiment, data is transmitted from one or more satellite resources 14 to the antenna terminal 20 of the mobile communication system 10 via a forward channel 40. Data from sources 30, 32 of the mobile platform 16 is communicated to the modem manager 26, and then the data is transmitted to one or more satellite resources 14 via a return channel 42. Data is transmitted from each satellite resource 14 to the corresponding ground earth station 36 via a downlink 44. Similarly, data is transmitted from one of the ground earth stations 36 to one of the satellite resources 14 via an uplink 46.

[0016] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The diagram shows a mobile communication system 10. The antenna terminal 20 includes one or more antennas 50, each antenna 50 having both transmission and reception capabilities. For example, in... Figure 2In the illustrated embodiment, there are N antennas 50, where N is any integer. One or more antennas 50 include single-beam antennas, dual-beam antennas, and multi-beam antennas. In one embodiment, antenna terminal 20 includes at least one single-beam antenna. Alternatively, in another embodiment, antenna terminal 20 unit includes multiple multi-beam antennas. For example, in one embodiment, antenna 50 is a combined Ka / Ku antenna with the ability to switch between frequency bands as needed. One or more antennas 50 communicate wirelessly with modem manager 26 via wireless communication link 24.

[0017] Modem unit 22 includes two or more modems 54. For example, in... Figure 2 In the illustrated embodiment, there are N modems 54. Two or more modems 54 communicate electronically with one or more antennas 50. Each modem 54 is configured to support one of the service data streams (i.e., a primary service data stream and a secondary service data stream). Modem unit 22 includes an antenna switch 60 configured to connect each modem 54 to one or more of the antennas 50.

[0018] Modem manager 26 is configured to manage the active bandwidth between one or more satellite resources 14 and mobile communication system 10. Specifically, modem manager 26 is configured to continuously monitor the interaction between one or more satellite resources 14 and mobile communication system 10 (i.e., Figure 1 The bandwidth utilization efficiency of wireless communication between the return channel 42 shown. The bandwidth capacity of wireless communication between one or more satellite resources 14 and mobile communication system 10 is configured to satisfy the service level agreement of the primary service data stream. However, it should be understood that in at least some instances, the primary service data stream may have limited bandwidth requirements. As a result, there may be a significant amount of unused margin in the wireless connection between one or more satellite resources 14 and mobile communication system 10.

[0019] Mobile communication system 10 utilizes unused margins by actively managing the bandwidth of the wireless connection between mobile communication system 10 and one or more satellite resources 14 (i.e., return channel 42). Specifically, modem manager 26 determines the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the wireless connection between mobile communication system 10 and one or more satellite resources 14, wherein modem manager 26 determines whether there is available margin 66 based on the bandwidth utilization efficiency. In response to determining that there is available margin 66 in the wireless connection between one or more satellite resources 14 and mobile communication system 10, modem manager 26 then determines whether there is sufficient available margin 66 to support a data service flow that combines a primary service data flow and a secondary service data flow. As explained in more detail below, modem manager 26 combines the primary service data flow and the secondary service data flow to create an aggregated packet 70 (e.g., ...). Figure 3 (As shown). If the aggregated data packet 70 fits within the available margin 66, the modem manager 26 transmits the aggregated data packet 70 to one or more satellite resources 14 via the wireless communication network. The modem manager 26 actively manages the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the wireless connection between one or more satellite resources 14 and the mobile communication system 10, thereby supporting the requirements of two or more service data streams without introducing additional elements or costs. It should be understood that although the return channel 42 between one or more satellite resources 14 and the mobile communication system 10 is described, a similar method of bandwidth management can also be applied to the uplink 46 between one of the satellite resources 14 and the ground station 36.

[0020] Figure 3 This is an exemplary diagram 80 illustrating how aggregated data packets 70 are created. Diagram 80 illustrates multiple primary data packets 82 arranged sequentially to each other along the first row R1, where the multiple primary data packets 82 are part of a primary service data stream. Each primary data packet 82 represents a consecutive group of bits, where each primary data packet 82 is allocated bandwidth and priority. Diagram 80 also includes multiple secondary data packets 84 arranged sequentially to each other along the second row R2, where the multiple secondary data packets 84 are part of a secondary service data stream. The secondary data packets 84 also represent consecutive groups of bits, where each secondary data packet 84 is allocated bandwidth and priority. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and possibly refers to a different diagram.) Figure 3 In the exemplary embodiment shown, there are sixteen primary data packets 82 and eight secondary data packets 84.

[0021] Figure 80 also illustrates multiple bandwidth slots 86 arranged sequentially to each other, where each bandwidth slot 86 represents a return channel 42 ( Figure 1 A unit margin within a specific unit of time. For example, a bandwidth slot of 86 can be measured by frequency (e.g., megahertz) or data transfer rate (e.g., megabytes per second). Figure 3In the exemplary embodiment shown, twenty-seven bandwidth time slots 86 are numbered sequentially (e.g., each time slot is numbered 1-27). The bandwidth time slots 86 are divided into transmissions 88, which occur sequentially on the return channel 42. In such a manner... Figure 3 The example shown illustrates six transmissions 88. The first transmission includes seven bandwidth time slots 86, the second transmission includes five bandwidth time slots 86, the third transmission includes five bandwidth time slots 86, the fourth transmission includes five bandwidth time slots 86, the fifth transmission includes three bandwidth time slots 86, and the sixth transmission includes two bandwidth time slots 86.

[0022] like Figure 3 As shown, four primary data packets 82 and two secondary data packets 84 are part of a first transmission. The primary data packets 82 and secondary data packets 84, as part of the first transmission, are combined to create a first aggregated data packet 70, where the primary data packets 82 take precedence over the secondary data packets 84. Figure 3 As shown, the aggregated data packet 70 includes a size requiring six bandwidth time slots 86. Also as... Figure 3 As shown, the available margin 66 is seven bandwidth slots 86. Therefore, the modem manager 26 determines that the size of the aggregated packet 70 (e.g., six bandwidth slots 86) is less than the size of the available margin 66 (e.g., seven bandwidth slots 86) in the wireless connection between one or more satellite resources 14 and the mobile communication system 10. In response to determining that the aggregated packet 70 is less than or equal to the size of the available margin 66, the modem manager 26 transmits the aggregated packet 70 to one or more satellite resources 14 (e.g., seven bandwidth slots 86) via the wireless communication network. Figure 1 (As shown).

[0023] Continue to refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 The third transmission includes four primary data packets 82 and two secondary data packets 84. Therefore, the aggregated data packet 70 requires six bandwidth slots 86. However, compared to the first transmission, the available margin 66 only includes five bandwidth slots 86. Therefore, the aggregated data packet 70 is larger than the available margin 66. Therefore, only the primary data packets 82 are transmitted during the third transmission. In one embodiment, the remaining secondary data packets 84 not transmitted during the third transmission are transmitted in subsequent transmissions. For example, in... Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, one of the remaining two minor data packets 84 is sent during the fourth transmission, and the other remaining minor data packet 84 is sent during the fifth transmission. As described below, there are other alternatives for transmitting the remaining minor data packet 84.

[0024] In one embodiment, more than one antenna 50 may be available for transmitting primary service data streams and secondary service data streams; alternatively, the available antenna 50 may be a dual-beam antenna with one or more available beams. For example, as Figure 4A As shown, in one embodiment, the mobile communication system 10 includes a primary antenna 50A and a secondary antenna 50B, wherein the primary antenna 50A and the secondary antenna 50B operate in a single-beam mode. In one embodiment, the primary antenna 50A and the secondary antenna 50B have similar costs. In other words, the cost of transmitting data through the primary antenna 50A is approximately equal to the cost of transmitting data through the secondary antenna 50B. Now refer to Figure 4B The primary data packet 82 of the primary service data stream is transmitted by the primary antenna 50A, while the secondary data packet 84, which is part of the secondary service data stream, is transmitted by the secondary antenna 50B.

[0025] Return to reference Figure 4A In another embodiment, a multi-beam antenna configured to transmit at least a primary beam 90 and a secondary beam 92 is provided. Similar to the primary antenna 50A and secondary antenna 50B, if the cost of transmitting data via the primary beam 90 transmitted by the multi-beam antenna is similar to the cost of transmitting data via the secondary beam 92 transmitted by the multi-beam antenna, then the primary data packet 82 of the primary service data stream is transmitted by the primary beam 90, while the secondary data packet 84 of the secondary service data stream is transmitted by the secondary beam 92, as follows... Figure 4B As shown.

[0026] In some instances, the cost of transmitting data via the primary antenna 50A is greater than the cost of transmitting data via the secondary antenna 50B. Therefore, the modem manager 26 allocates both the primary and secondary data streams to the primary antenna 50A; however, when there is insufficient available margin in the wireless connection between the primary antenna 50A and one or more satellite resources 14, the secondary antenna 50B is utilized as a backup or alternative antenna for data transmission. Similarly, the modem manager 26 also allocates both the primary and secondary data streams to the primary beam 90; however, when there is insufficient available margin, the secondary beam 92 is also utilized as an alternative beam for data transmission. (Reference) Figure 1 , Figure 4A and Figure 5 When the aggregated data packet size 70 is less than or equal to the available margin size 66 ( Figure 3 When the available margin is shown as 66, the modem manager 26 ( Figure 1 The aggregated data packet 70 is transmitted via the main antenna 50A. However, as mentioned above, the third transmission includes only five bandwidth slots 86 compared to the first transmission. Therefore, the aggregated data packet 70 is larger than the available margin 66. Therefore, as... Figure 5As shown, the primary data packet 82, which is part of the third transmission, is transmitted by the primary antenna 50A or the primary beam 90; however, the remaining two secondary data packets 84 are transmitted using the secondary antenna 50B or the secondary beam 92.

[0027] Figure 6A , Figure 6B and Figure 6C An exemplary process flowchart is illustrated, illustrating a method 200 for transmitting data to one or more satellite resources 14 via a wireless communication network. (Reference) Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6A Method 200 can begin at box 202. In box 202, modem manager 26 receives primary service data streams from one or more primary data sources 30 and secondary service data streams from one or more secondary data sources 32. Method 200 can then proceed to box 204.

[0028] In block 204, modem manager 26 determines the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the wireless connection between mobile communication system 10 and one or more satellite resources 14. In one embodiment, the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the one or more satellite resources is determined based on Equation 1, which is: Bandwidth utilization efficiency = Equation 1 Where B represents the bandwidth of one or more satellite resources 14, P B This indicates the bandwidth of the main data packet 82, S B This represents the bandwidth of the secondary data packet 84, where bandwidth utilization efficiency is measured as a percentage. Method 200 can then proceed to decision box 206.

[0029] In decision box 206, modem manager 26 determines, based on the bandwidth utilization efficiency described in box 204, whether the wireless connection between one or more satellite resources 14 and mobile communication system 10 has an available margin 66. Figure 3 For example, in one embodiment, if the bandwidth utilization is 100%, the modem manager 26 determines that the available margin 66 does not exist, and method 200 returns to block 202. However, if the bandwidth utilization is less than 100%, the modem manager 26 determines that the available margin 66 exists, and method 200 proceeds to block 208A.

[0030] In box 208A, in response to determining that the wireless connection between the mobile communication system 10 and one or more satellite resources 14 has an available margin 66, the modem manager 26 combines the primary service data stream with the secondary service data stream to create Figure 3The aggregated data packet 70 is shown. Specifically, as shown in box 208B, the modem manager 26 determines the aggregated data packet 70 based on the priority of one or more primary data packets 82 and one or more secondary data packets 84, where the primary service data stream takes precedence over the secondary service data stream. Method 200 can then proceed to decision box 210.

[0031] Now for reference Figure 6B In decision box 210, modem manager 26 compares the size of aggregated packet 70 with the size of available margin 66 for the wireless connection between mobile communication system 10 and one or more satellite resources 14. If modem manager 26 determines that the size of aggregated packet 70 is less than or equal to the size of available margin 66, method 200 proceeds to box 212.

[0032] In block 212, in response to determining that the aggregated data packet 70 is less than or equal to the size of the available margin 66, the modem manager 26 transmits the aggregated data packet 70 via the wireless connection. Method 200 can then terminate. However, if the modem manager 26 determines that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is greater than the size of the available margin 66 of the wireless connection, method 200 proceeds to decision block 214.

[0033] In decision block 214, if antenna 50 is a multi-beam antenna, or alternatively, if more than one antenna 50 is available, then method 200 proceeds to decision block 216. Otherwise, method 200 returns to block 202, and modem manager 26 continues to receive the primary and secondary service data streams.

[0034] refer to Figure 6C In decision box 216, if modem manager 26 determines that the multi-beam antenna is available in multi-beam mode, or alternatively, if modem manager 26 determines that the primary antenna 50A and secondary antenna 50B (see...) Figure 4A If both are available, then method 200 proceeds to box 218. Otherwise, method 200 returns to box 202.

[0035] refer to Figure 6C In box 218, in response to determining that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is greater than the size of the available margin 66, the modem manager 26 allocates a primary data packet 82 of the primary service data stream, which is part of the aggregated data packet 70, to the primary antenna 50A, and allocates a secondary data packet 84 of the secondary service data stream, which is part of the aggregated data packet 70, to the secondary antenna 50B, as follows: Figure 4BAs shown. Alternatively, modem manager 26 assigns the primary data packet 82 of aggregated data packet 70 to primary beam 90 and the secondary data packet 84 of aggregated data packet 70 to secondary beam 92. Method 200 can then terminate.

[0036] Referring generally to the accompanying drawings, the disclosed mobile communication system offers various technical effects and benefits. Specifically, the modem manager employs active bandwidth management to support two or more service data streams without introducing additional elements or costs. The disclosed mobile communication system also improves overall bandwidth utilization efficiency because, if available margins exist, wireless connections to one or more satellite resources are used to transmit secondary service data streams. It should be understood that some conventional broadband satellite communication systems are customized to host a single, specific modem card, which is extremely limited. In contrast, the disclosed mobile communication system includes two or more modems, which in turn support different types of antennas and bandwidths.

[0037] Now for reference Figure 7 A modem manager 26 is implemented on one or more computer devices or systems (such as exemplary computer system 1030). Computer system 1030 includes a processor 1032, memory 1034, mass storage device 1036, input / output (I / O) interface 1038, and human-machine interface (HMI) 1040. Computer system 1030 is operatively coupled to one or more external resources 1042 via network 1026 or I / O interface 1038. External resources may include, but are not limited to, servers, databases, mass storage devices, peripherals, cloud-based network services, or any other suitable computer resources that can be used by computer system 1030.

[0038] Processor 1032 includes one or more devices selected from microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, microcomputers, central processing units, field-programmable gate arrays, programmable logic devices, state machines, logic circuits, analog circuits, digital circuits, or any other device that manipulates signals (analog or digital) based on operating instructions stored in memory 1034. Memory 1034 includes a single memory device or multiple memory devices, including but not limited to read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), flash memory, cache memory, or any other device capable of storing information. Mass storage memory device 1036 includes data storage devices such as hard disk drives, optical disk drives, magnetic tape drives, volatile or non-volatile solid-state devices, or any other device capable of storing information.

[0039] Processor 1032 operates under the control of operating system 1046 residing in memory 1034. Operating system 1046 manages computer resources, enabling computer program code, embodied as one or more computer software applications (e.g., application program 1048 residing in memory 1034), to have instructions executable by processor 1032. In an alternative example, processor 1032 may directly execute application program 1048, in which case operating system 1046 may be omitted. One or more data structures 1049 also reside in memory 1034 and can be used by processor 1032, operating system 1046, or application program 1048 to store or manipulate data.

[0040] I / O interface 1038 provides a machine interface that operatively couples processor 1032 to other devices and systems, such as network 1026 or external resource 1042. Therefore, application 1048 works collaboratively with network 1026 or external resource 1042 by communicating via I / O interface 1038 to provide various features, functions, applications, processes, or modules including those of the examples of this disclosure. Application 1048 also includes program code executed by one or more external resources 1042, or otherwise dependent on functionality or signals provided by other system or network components external to computer system 1030. In fact, given the virtually unlimited possible hardware and software configurations, those skilled in the art will understand that examples of this disclosure can include applications located outside computer system 1030, distributed among multiple computers or other external resources 1042, or provided as computing resources (hardware and software) offered through a service (e.g., cloud computing service) via network 1026.

[0041] HMI 1040 is operably coupled to processor 1032 of computer system 1030 in a known manner to allow a user to interact directly with computer system 1030. HMI 1040 may include a video or alphanumeric display, a touchscreen, speakers, and any other suitable audio and video indicators capable of providing data to the user. HMI 1040 also includes input devices and controls, such as an alphanumeric keypad, a pointing device, a keypad, buttons, control knobs, a microphone, etc., capable of accepting commands or input from the user and transmitting the typed input to processor 1032.

[0042] Database 1044 may reside on mass storage device 1036 and may be used to collect and organize data used by the various systems and modules described herein. Database 1044 may include data and supporting data structures for storing and organizing data. Specifically, database 1044 may be arranged to have any database organization or structure, including but not limited to relational databases, hierarchical databases, network databases, or combinations thereof. A database management system, executed as instructions on processor 1032 in the form of computer software applications, may be used to access information or data stored in records in database 1044 in response to queries, wherein the queries may be dynamically determined and executed by operating system 1046, other applications 1048, or one or more modules.

[0043] Furthermore, this disclosure includes embodiments pursuant to the following provisions: Clause 1. A mobile communication system 10 for transmitting data to one or more satellite resources 14 via a wireless connection, the mobile communication system 10 comprising: One or more processors 1032; and Memory 1034, coupled to the one or more processors 1032, stores data in database 1044 and program code, which, when executed by the one or more processors 1032, enables the mobile communication system 10 to: Receive primary service data streams from one or more primary data sources 30 and secondary service data streams from one or more secondary data sources 32; Determine the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system 10 and the one or more satellite resources 14; The wireless connection is determined to have an available margin 66 based on the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the one or more satellite resources 14. In response to determining that the wireless connection has an available margin 66, the primary service data stream is combined with the secondary service data stream to create an aggregated data packet 70; The size of the aggregated data packet 70 is compared with the size of the available margin 66 of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system 10 and the one or more satellite resources 14; It is determined that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is less than or equal to the size of the available margin 66; and In response to determining that the aggregated data packet 70 is less than or equal to the size of the available margin 66, the aggregated data packet 70 is transmitted via the wireless connection.

[0044] Clause 2. The mobile communication system 10 according to Clause 1, wherein the one or more processors 1032 execute instructions to: It is determined that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is greater than the size of the available margin 66 of the wireless connection; and In response to determining that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is greater than the size of the available margin 66, the primary service data stream and the secondary service data stream continue to be received.

[0045] Clause 3. The mobile communication system 10 according to Clause 1 further includes two or more modems 54 that communicate electronically with the one or more processors 1032.

[0046] Clause 4. The mobile communication system 10 according to Clause 1 further includes one or more antennas 50 that communicate electronically with the one or more processors 1032.

[0047] Clause 5. The mobile communication system 10 according to Clause 4, wherein the one or more antennas 50 include a multi-beam antenna configured to transmit at least a primary beam 90 and a secondary beam 92.

[0048] Clause 6. The mobile communication system 10 according to Clause 5, wherein the one or more processors 1032 execute instructions to: It is determined that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is greater than the size of the available margin 66 of the wireless connection; and Determine that the multi-beam antenna is available in multi-beam mode; and In response to determining that the multi-beam antenna is available in multi-beam mode, the primary service data stream is assigned to the primary beam 90, and the secondary service data stream is assigned to the secondary beam 92.

[0049] Clause 7. The mobile communication system 10 as described in Clause 4, wherein the one or more antennas 50 include a primary antenna 50A and a secondary antenna 50B.

[0050] Clause 8. The mobile communication system 10 according to Clause 7, wherein the one or more processors 1032 execute instructions to: It is determined that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is greater than the size of the available margin 66 of the wireless connection; and It was determined that the secondary antenna 50B was available; and In response to determining that the secondary antenna 50B is available, the primary service data stream is allocated to the primary antenna 50A, and the secondary service data stream is allocated to the secondary antenna 50B.

[0051] Clause 9. The mobile communication system 10 according to Clause 1, wherein the primary service data stream comprises a plurality of primary data packets 82 and the secondary service data stream comprises a plurality of secondary data packets 84, and wherein both the primary data packets 82 and the secondary data packets 84 indicate bandwidth and priority.

[0052] Clause 10. The mobile communication system 10 according to Clause 9, wherein the one or more processors 1032 execute instructions to: The aggregated data packet 70 is determined based on the priority of the primary data packet 82 and the secondary data packet 84, wherein the primary service data stream takes precedence over the secondary service data stream.

[0053] Clause 11. The mobile communication system 10 according to Clause 10, wherein the one or more processors 1032 execute instructions to: The bandwidth utilization efficiency of the one or more satellite resources 14 is determined based on the following: Bandwidth utilization efficiency = Where B represents the bandwidth of the one or more satellite resources 14, P B This indicates the bandwidth of the main data packet 82, and S B This indicates the bandwidth of the secondary data packet 84.

[0054] Clause 12. An aircraft 18, comprising: Mobile communication system 10, configured to transmit data to one or more satellite resources 14 via a wireless connection, wherein the mobile communication system 10 includes: One or more antennas 50; Two or more modems 54 that communicate electronically with the one or more antennas 50; One or more processors 1032, which electronically communicate with the two or more modems 54 and the one or more antennas 50; and Memory 1034, coupled to the one or more processors 1032, stores data in database 1044 and program code, which, when executed by the one or more processors 1032, enables the mobile communication system 10 to: Receive primary service data streams from one or more primary data sources 30 and secondary service data streams from one or more secondary data sources 32; Determine the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system 10 and the one or more satellite resources 14; The wireless connection is determined to have an available margin 66 based on the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the one or more satellite resources 14. In response to determining that the wireless connection has an available margin 66, the primary service data stream is combined with the secondary service data stream to create an aggregated data packet 70; The size of the aggregated data packet 70 is compared with the size of the available margin 66 of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system 10 and the one or more satellite resources 14; It is determined that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is less than or equal to the size of the available margin 66; and In response to determining that the aggregated data packet 70 is less than or equal to the size of the available margin 66, the aggregated data packet 70 is transmitted via the wireless connection.

[0055] Clause 13. The aircraft 18 as described in Clause 12, wherein said one or more processors 1032 execute instructions to: It is determined that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is greater than the size of the available margin 66 of the wireless connection; and In response to determining that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is greater than the size of the available margin 66, the primary service data stream and the secondary service data stream continue to be received.

[0056] Clause 14. A method 200 for transmitting data to one or more satellite resources 14 via a wireless connection through a mobile communication system 10, the method 200 comprising: The computer 1030 receives primary service data streams from one or more primary data sources 30 and secondary service data streams from one or more secondary data sources 32; The computer 1030 determines the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system 10 and the one or more satellite resources 14. The computer 1030 determines that the wireless connection has an available margin 66 based on the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the one or more satellite resources 14; In response to determining that the wireless connection has an available margin 66, the primary service data stream is combined with the secondary service data stream to create an aggregated data packet 70; The size of the aggregated data packet 70 is compared with the size of the available margin 66 of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system 10 and the one or more satellite resources 14; It is determined that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is less than or equal to the size of the available margin 66; and In response to determining that the aggregated data packet 70 is less than or equal to the size of the available margin 66, the aggregated data packet 70 is transmitted via the wireless connection.

[0057] Clause 15. The method 200 described in accordance with Clause 14 further includes: It is determined that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is greater than the size of the available margin 66 of the wireless connection; and In response to determining that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is greater than the size of the available margin 66, the primary service data stream and the secondary service data stream continue to be received.

[0058] Clause 16. The method 200 according to Clause 14, wherein the mobile communication system 10 further includes a primary antenna 50A and a secondary antenna 50B for wireless communication with the computer 1030 via a wireless communication link.

[0059] Clause 17. The method 200 according to Clause 16, wherein the method 200 further comprises: It is determined that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is greater than the size of the available margin 66 of the wireless connection; and It was determined that the secondary antenna 50B was available; and In response to determining that the secondary antenna 50B is available, the primary service data stream is allocated to the primary antenna 50A, and the secondary service data stream is allocated to the secondary antenna 50B.

[0060] Clause 18. The method 200 according to Clause 14, wherein the mobile communication system 10 further includes a multi-beam antenna that wirelessly communicates with the computer 1030 via a wireless communication link, wherein the multi-beam antenna is configured to transmit a primary beam 90 and a secondary beam 92.

[0061] Clause 19. The method 200 according to Clause 18, wherein the method 200 further comprises: It is determined that the size of the aggregated data packet 70 is greater than the size of the available margin 66 of the wireless connection; and Determine that the multi-beam antenna is available in multi-beam mode; and In response to determining that the multi-beam antenna is available in multi-beam mode, the primary service data stream is assigned to the primary beam 90, and the secondary service data stream is assigned to the secondary beam 92.

[0062] Clause 20. The method 200 according to Clause 14, wherein the primary service data stream comprises a plurality of primary packets 82 and the secondary service data stream comprises a plurality of secondary packets 84, wherein both the primary packets 82 and the secondary packets 84 indicate bandwidth and priority.

[0063] The description in this disclosure is exemplary in nature only, and any changes that do not depart from the spirit and scope of this disclosure are intended to fall within its scope. Such changes should not be considered as departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A mobile communication system (10) on a mobile platform (16) for transmitting data to one or more satellite resources (14) via a wireless connection, the mobile communication system (10) comprising: One or more processors (1032); One or more antennas (50) that communicate electronically with the one or more processors (1032); and A memory (1034), coupled to the one or more processors (1032), stores data in a database (1044) and stores program code that, when executed by the one or more processors (1032), enables the mobile communication system (10): Receive primary service data streams from one or more primary data sources (30) and secondary service data streams from one or more secondary data sources (32); Determine the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system (10) and the one or more satellite resources (14); The wireless connection is determined to have available margin (66) based on the bandwidth utilization efficiency of the one or more satellite resources (14). In response to determining that the wireless connection has available margin (66), the primary service data stream is combined with the secondary service data stream to create an aggregate packet (70). The size of the aggregated data packet (70) is compared with the size of the available margin (66) of the wireless connection between the mobile communication system (10) and the one or more satellite resources (14); Determine whether the size of the aggregated data packet (70) is less than or equal to the size of the available margin (66); and In response to determining that the size of the aggregated data packet (70) is less than or equal to the size of the available margin (66), the aggregated data packet (70) is transmitted via the wireless connection. Determine whether the size of the aggregated data packet (70) is greater than the size of the available margin (66) of the wireless connection; and In response to determining that the size of the aggregated data packet (70) is greater than the size of the available margin (66), and if the one or more antennas (50) do not include multi-beam antennas and if no more than one antenna is available, then the primary service data stream and the secondary service data stream continue to be received.

2. The mobile communication system (10) according to claim 1 further includes two or more modems (54) that communicate electronically with the one or more processors (1032).

3. The mobile communication system (10) according to claim 1, wherein the one or more antennas (50) include a multi-beam antenna configured to transmit at least a primary beam (90) and a secondary beam (92).

4. The mobile communication system (10) according to claim 3, wherein the one or more processors (1032) execute instructions to: Determine whether the size of the aggregated data packet (70) is greater than the size of the available margin (66) of the wireless connection; as well as Determine whether the multi-beam antenna is available in multi-beam mode; as well as In response to determining that the multi-beam antenna is available in multi-beam mode, the primary service data stream is assigned to the primary beam (90), and the secondary service data stream is assigned to the secondary beam (92).

5. The mobile communication system (10) according to claim 1, wherein the one or more antennas (50) include a primary antenna (50A) and a secondary antenna (50B).

6. The mobile communication system (10) according to claim 5, wherein the one or more processors (1032) execute instructions to: Determine whether the size of the aggregated data packet (70) is greater than the size of the available margin (66) of the wireless connection; and Determine whether the secondary antenna (50B) is available; and In response to determining that the secondary antenna (50B) is available, the primary service data stream is allocated to the primary antenna (50A), and the secondary service data stream is allocated to the secondary antenna (50B).

7. The mobile communication system (10) according to any one of claims 1-6, wherein the primary service data stream comprises a plurality of primary data packets (82), and the secondary service data stream comprises a plurality of secondary data packets (84), wherein both the primary data packets (82) and the secondary data packets (84) indicate bandwidth and priority.

8. The mobile communication system (10) according to claim 7, wherein the one or more processors (1032) execute instructions to: The aggregated data packet (70) is determined based on the priority of the primary data packet (82) and the secondary data packet (84), wherein the primary service data stream takes precedence over the secondary service data stream.

9. The mobile communication system (10) according to claim 8, wherein the one or more processors (1032) execute instructions to: The bandwidth utilization efficiency of the one or more satellite resources (14) is determined based on the following: Bandwidth utilization efficiency = Where B represents the bandwidth of the one or more satellite resources (14), P B This indicates the bandwidth of the main data packet (82), and S B This indicates the bandwidth of the secondary data packet (84).

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