Signal monitoring method and system, satellite terminal and base station
By introducing a new listening timer into the satellite communication system and optimizing the DRX communication mechanism, the problems of wake-up delay and high signaling overhead in the DRX communication mechanism were solved, enabling real-time data acquisition and efficient resource utilization of the satellite terminal.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202511234222.4
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-08-29
- Publication Date
- 2025-11-18
AI Technical Summary
In digital video broadcasting satellite communication systems, the existing DRX communication mechanism causes problems such as wake-up delay, high signaling overhead, and impact on link stability. In particular, the base station can only determine whether to wake up the listening timer after the DRX cycle ends, resulting in communication lag and resource waste.
A first listening timer is added to the configuration descriptor sent by the base station. The satellite terminal triggers the timer to listen for signals at the end of the listening period and determines whether to start the second listening timer based on the configuration value. This optimizes the listening and sleep states of the communication cycle and reduces signaling overhead and wake-up delay.
Through flexible monitoring timer management, satellite terminals can capture forward service data from base stations in a timely manner, reduce wake-up delays, reduce communication lag, and ensure real-time data transmission and resource utilization.
Smart Images
Figure CN120979529A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of communication technology, specifically to a signal monitoring method, system, satellite terminal, and base station. Background Technology
[0002] In satellite communication systems for Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB), satellite terminals commonly employ a Discontinuous Reception (DRX) mechanism to reduce power consumption. This mechanism alternates between periodic listening windows and sleep mode to minimize power consumption during communication. At the beginning of each DRX cycle, the satellite terminal activates its receiving function within the listening window, waiting for forward service data or wake-up commands from the base station. Upon receiving the corresponding command within the listening window of a cycle, it executes the corresponding data transmission.
[0003] However, in the existing DRX mechanism of satellite communication systems, the base station can only determine whether to wake up other eavesdropping timers at the end of the default DRX listening period, and then notify the satellite terminal to wake up these timers during the broadcast time. At this point, within the current DRX cycle, the moment of determining whether to wake up other eavesdropping timers occurs when the broadcast has already taken place (during the default listening period). This means that the broadcast sent by the base station to the satellite terminal needs to be sent during the broadcast time of the next DRX cycle, resulting in a lag in waking up other eavesdropping timers. Furthermore, the possibility of other eavesdropping timers waking up broadcasts in each DRX cycle leads to high signaling overhead. Summary of the Invention
[0004] This application provides a signal monitoring method, system, satellite terminal, and base station to avoid the lag of the DRX communication mechanism and reduce the signaling overhead of the DRX communication mechanism.
[0005] A first aspect of this application provides a signal monitoring method applied to a satellite terminal, the method comprising:
[0006] Receive a configuration descriptor from a base station, the configuration descriptor containing a first listening timer, the first listening timer being a newly added listening timer in the configuration descriptor;
[0007] Based on the configuration descriptor, configure the communication period corresponding to the discontinuous reception communication mode, wherein the communication period includes a listening period and a sleep period;
[0008] At the end of the monitoring period, the first monitoring timer is triggered to monitor the signal of the base station.
[0009] In an optional embodiment of this application, the step of triggering the listening timer includes:
[0010] Identify the configuration value in the configuration descriptor, the configuration value being used to determine the activation state of the first listening timer;
[0011] Based on the configuration value, determine whether to trigger the first listening timer to listen to the signal of the base station.
[0012] In an optional embodiment of this application, the configuration value includes zero values and non-zero values;
[0013] The step of determining whether to trigger the first monitoring timer to monitor the signal of the base station based on the configuration value includes:
[0014] If the configuration value is zero, then wait for a valid terminal descriptor and start a second listening timer based on the valid terminal descriptor to listen to the signal of the base station. The second listening timer is the original listening timer in the configuration descriptor.
[0015] If the configuration value is non-zero, the first listening timer is started to listen to the signal of the base station.
[0016] In an optional embodiment of this application, after the step of starting the first listening timer to listen to the signal of the base station, the signal listening method further includes:
[0017] Detect whether forward data from the base station is received during the listening period of the first listening timer;
[0018] If forward data is received during the listening period of the first listening timer, the second listening timer is activated after the listening period of the first listening timer ends, for continuous listening of the base station signal;
[0019] If no forward data is received during the listening period of the second listening timer, the listening period ends and the system enters a sleep period.
[0020] A second aspect of this application also provides a signal monitoring method, which is applied to a base station and includes:
[0021] Receive configuration requests for discontinuous reception of communications from satellite terminals;
[0022] A configuration descriptor for discontinuous reception communication is generated based on the configuration request. The configuration descriptor includes a first listening timer, which is a newly added listening timer in the configuration descriptor.
[0023] The configuration descriptor is sent to the satellite terminal.
[0024] In an optional embodiment of this application, after the step of sending the configuration descriptor to the satellite terminal, the signal monitoring method further includes:
[0025] Based on the current forward business requirements, determine whether it is necessary to start the first listening timer;
[0026] Forward data is sent during the start of the first listener timer;
[0027] If forward data is sent during the start of the first listener timer, the second listener timer is activated after the first listener timer ends; otherwise, it enters a sleep period.
[0028] A third aspect of this application also provides a signal monitoring system, which is applied to a satellite terminal and includes:
[0029] The first receiving unit is configured to receive a configuration descriptor from a base station, wherein the configuration descriptor contains a first listening timer, and the first listening timer is a newly added listening timer in the configuration descriptor;
[0030] A configuration unit is configured, based on the configuration descriptor, to configure the communication period corresponding to the discontinuous reception communication mode, wherein the communication period includes a listening period and a sleep period;
[0031] The triggering unit is used to trigger the first listening timer at the end of the listening period in order to listen to the signal of the base station.
[0032] A fourth aspect of this application also provides a signal monitoring system, which is applied to a base station and includes:
[0033] The second receiving unit is used to receive configuration requests for discontinuous reception communication from the satellite terminal;
[0034] A generation unit is configured to generate a configuration descriptor for discontinuous reception communication based on the configuration request. The configuration descriptor includes a first listening timer, which is a newly added listening timer in the configuration descriptor.
[0035] A sending unit is used to send the configuration descriptor to a satellite terminal.
[0036] A fifth aspect of this application provides a satellite terminal, comprising: a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to implement the steps of any of the above methods.
[0037] A sixth aspect of the embodiments of this application provides a base station having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that the computer program, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the method as described in any of the above. Attached Figure Description
[0038] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of this application and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments and are used to explain this application, but do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings:
[0039] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario of the signal monitoring method provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0040] Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram of a scenario for a signal monitoring method provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0041] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart of a signal monitoring method provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0042] Figure 2A A schematic diagram illustrating the communication mechanism of a satellite terminal DRX according to an embodiment of this application;
[0043] Figure 2B A schematic flowchart of a signal monitoring method provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0044] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a sub-process of a signal monitoring method provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0045] Figure 4 This is another seed process diagram of a signal monitoring method provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0046] Figure 4A A schematic diagram illustrating an interaction process between a satellite terminal and a base station for communication in a signal monitoring method provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0047] Figure 4B A schematic diagram illustrating another interaction process for communication between a satellite terminal and a base station in a signal monitoring method provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0048] Figure 5 A flowchart illustrating an extended scheme of the signal monitoring method provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0049] Figure 6 Another flowchart illustrating a signal monitoring method provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0050] Figure 7A flowchart illustrating another extension of the signal monitoring method provided in one embodiment of the application;
[0051] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a signal monitoring system provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0052] Figure 9 This is another schematic diagram of the structure of a signal monitoring system provided in one embodiment of this application;
[0053] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of a satellite terminal structure provided in one embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation
[0054] To make the technical solutions and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the exemplary embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not an exhaustive list of all embodiments.
[0055] It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative of the technical solutions of this application and are not intended to limit this application. To better understand the technical solutions of this application, a detailed description will be provided below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific implementation methods.
[0056] The following is a brief description of the application environment of the signal monitoring method provided in the embodiments of this application:
[0057] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an application scenario of the signal monitoring method provided in this application embodiment. In a digital video broadcasting satellite communication system 10, at least one base station 20 and at least two satellite terminals 30 corresponding to the base station 20 for communication may be included.
[0058] In this system, base station 20 acts as a control device, capable of controlling at least two corresponding satellite terminals 30. Satellite terminals 30 typically employ DRX communication mode to conserve power. During DRX communication mode, satellite terminals 30 periodically monitor the signal from base station 20 through listening and sleeping periods, awaiting forward wake-up commands or forward service data from base station 20.
[0059] Under the DRX communication mechanism, after the listening period ends, base station 20 can determine whether to wake up the existing listening timer. If it determines to wake up the existing listening timer, it can broadcast a notification to the satellite terminal to do so. However, the moment of determining whether to wake up the existing listening timer occurs after the broadcast has already taken place. This means that the broadcast sent by base station 20 to satellite terminal 30 needs to be sent at the next DRX cycle's broadcast time, resulting in a lag in waking up the existing listening timer. Furthermore, each DRX cycle may have an existing listening timer waking up broadcast, leading to higher signaling overhead.
[0060] Please see Figure 1A , Figure 1A This is a schematic diagram of a scenario using the existing DRX communication mechanism. Specifically, in satellite communication systems using the Digital Video Broadcasting (DVB) protocol, satellite terminals often employ a Discontinuous Reception (DRX) communication mechanism to save power. DRX Mechanism Principle Figure 1A As shown, the DRX mechanism alternates between periodic monitoring periods and sleep periods. The base station can only determine whether to wake up the T_DRX_On monitoring timer at the end of the DRX monitoring period (MonitorDuration), and then notifies the satellite terminal to wake up the T_DRX_On monitoring timer during the broadcast time. At this point, within the current DRX cycle, the moment of determining whether to wake up the T_DRX_On monitoring timer occurs after the broadcast has already taken place. This means the broadcast sent by the base station to the satellite terminal needs to be sent during the broadcast time of the next DRX cycle, resulting in a lag in waking up the T_DRX_On monitoring timer. Furthermore, the possibility of T_DRX_On monitoring timer wake-up broadcasts in each DRX cycle leads to high signaling overhead.
[0061] It should be noted that in satellite communication systems using the DVB protocol, the Discontinuous Reception (DRX) mechanism is a crucial aspect of reducing power consumption in satellite terminals. Satellite terminals operate by alternating between periodic listening and sleep periods. During the listening period, the radio frequency module is activated only to receive base station signaling; during the sleep period, most functions are disabled to conserve energy. The T_DRX_On timer, defined in the configuration descriptor under the DRX communication mechanism, is a key parameter controlling whether the satellite terminal wakes up from sleep and maintains an active state. Its activation or deactivation directly determines whether the satellite terminal can respond promptly to base station scheduling commands or data transmission requests.
[0062] The following explains the technical issues arising from the use of DRX communication mode in satellite communication systems during communication:
[0063] Under the existing DRX communication mechanism, the base station can only determine whether to activate the satellite terminal's T_DRX_On timer after the current DRX cycle's listening period has ended; and even if activation is determined, it must wait for the next DRX cycle's listening period and complete the activation via a broadcast wake-up command. This process design has significant limitations in satellite communication scenarios, with specific technical issues as follows:
[0064] (1) Significant wake-up delay and poor real-time performance. In the existing DRX communication mechanism, there is an interval of at least one DRX cycle between the decision to activate the T_DRX_On timer and its execution. Specifically, the base station makes a decision after the current cycle's listening period ends, but must wait until the next listening period to send the wake-up command via broadcast. If the DRX cycle is long, the delay between the satellite terminal deciding to wake up from the base station and actually being activated is high, resulting in response delays for services with high real-time requirements, or even data transmission interruptions.
[0065] (2) High signaling overhead and waste of resources. In the existing DRX communication mechanism, the base station needs to send a wake-up command via broadcast during the listening period of each DRX cycle. When the satellite terminal is activated, the broadcast signaling will occupy forward link resources. In the scenario of multiple satellite terminals, frequent broadcast signaling will crowd out the bandwidth of effective data transmission, resulting in a decrease in spectrum resource utilization. In addition, the satellite terminal needs to continuously receive broadcast signaling during the listening period, and even if it does not need to be woken up, it will increase unnecessary power consumption due to processing redundant signaling.
[0066] (3) Risk of delayed processing, affecting link stability. If the base station determines that the satellite terminal needs to be urgently woken up in the current cycle, but has to wait for the next cycle's listening period to send the command due to mechanism limitations, it may cause the data to be cached at the base station for too long, or even lose data due to buffer overflow, affecting the stability and reliability of communication.
[0067] For example, the base station determines whether to activate the T_DRX_On timer only at the end of the listening period of N DRX_Cycle cycles. However, the existing T_DRX_On timer uses a TIM-B carrying the valid terminal descriptor of the DRX, which is sent to the satellite terminal. The TIM-B must be sent during the broadcast transmission time. The broadcast transmission time is always within the listening period and has a fixed position, cycling periodically. The end of the listening period of cycle N means that the broadcast transmission time has passed within this cycle. Furthermore, due to delays in base station scheduling and TIM-B processing, the TIM-B activated by the T_DRX_On timer triggered in cycle N can only be sent to the satellite terminal during the listening period of DRX_Cycle N+1 or later. Since there is at least a full DRX_Cycle delay between the N DRX_Cycle cycles and DRX_Cycle N+1 or later, the activation of the T_DRX_On timer has a certain lag.
[0068] In addition, whenever a local base station needs to issue a signal to activate the T_DRX_On timer, it must broadcast relevant wake-up signaling via the air interface. Each wake-up is only valid for one DRX_Cycle, which generates additional broadcast signaling overhead, resulting in high signaling overhead and resource waste.
[0069] The following explains the technical terms and parameters used in the DRX communication mechanism:
[0070] DRX communication mechanism (Discontinuous Reception) is a communication mechanism that uses periodic listening and sleeping periods to reduce communication power consumption.
[0071] DRX Cycle is a complete cycle under the DRX communication mechanism, which includes at least one listening period and at least one sleep period.
[0072] The T_DRX_On timer, the DRX start timer, is used to count the duration of continuous receiver operation. After the satellite terminal resolves its own wake-up flag during the listening period, the T_DRX_On timer, as the original listening timer defined in the configuration descriptor, can begin calculating the duration of continuous receiver operation for this satellite terminal. If the satellite terminal receives forward data within T_DRX_On, the T_DRX_On timer is refreshed.
[0073] It should be noted that in this application, the base station configuration descriptor defines an S_DRX_on timer, and the satellite terminal receives a configuration descriptor from the base station that includes the S_DRX_on timer. Under the DRX communication mechanism, the S_DRX_on timer can be triggered when the listener ends to monitor the base station's signal.
[0074] The S_DRX_on timer is a newly added listener timer defined in the configuration descriptor. As a dedicated DRX activation timer, it can be used to adjust the activation status of the original listener timer, namely the T_DRX_On timer.
[0075] This application proposes a corresponding solution: First, the satellite terminal receives a configuration descriptor from the base station. The configuration descriptor contains a first listening timer, which is a newly added listening timer in the configuration descriptor. Based on the configuration descriptor, the communication period corresponding to the discontinuous reception communication mode is configured. The communication period includes a listening period and a sleep period. At the end of the listening period, the first listening timer is triggered to listen to the base station's signal. Thus, by having the base station issue a configuration descriptor containing a listening timer, the satellite terminal is configured with a listening period and a sleep period during the communication period of the discontinuous reception mode. The first listening timer is triggered after the listening period ends, allowing the base station to continue communicating with the satellite terminal after the listening period ends. The satellite terminal's radio frequency module can still listen to the base station signal based on the listening timer, avoiding the problem of complete signal reception interruption after the satellite terminal's listening period ends. This ensures timely capture of forward service data sent by the base station, reduces wake-up delay, lowers communication lag, and guarantees the real-time data transmission of the satellite communication system.
[0076] Please see Figure 2 The following embodiments use the aforementioned satellite terminal as the execution subject, applying the method provided in the embodiments of this application to the aforementioned satellite terminal. Figure 2 As shown, the signal monitoring method provided in this application embodiment includes the following steps S210 to S230:
[0077] Step S210: Receive a configuration descriptor from the base station. The configuration descriptor contains a first listening timer, which is a newly added listening timer in the configuration descriptor.
[0078] When the satellite terminal detects that the current device temperature is too high or that the communication power consumption needs to be adjusted accordingly, it can proactively send a configuration request for the DRX communication mode to the base station through the protocol data unit of the reverse control DVB system. This requests the base station to enable the satellite terminal to communicate based on the DRX communication mechanism, thereby reducing the power consumption of the device and alleviating the problem of excessive device temperature.
[0079] After the base station receives a configuration request for DRX communication mode from the satellite terminal, the base station can send the configuration descriptor corresponding to the DRX communication mode to the satellite terminal in the form of Terminal Information Message Unicast (TIM-U). This configuration descriptor is used to enable the satellite terminal to implement the DRX communication mechanism.
[0080] The configuration descriptor is a structured information carrier sent by the base station to the satellite terminal. It includes various parameters required for the operation of the satellite terminal and is used to guide the satellite terminal to access the network, maintain the connection, or adjust its working status according to the rules set by the base station.
[0081] Here, the configuration descriptor contains a first listener timer, which is a listener timer newly added to the configuration descriptor.
[0082] It should be noted that the first monitoring timer is a new time parameter added to the configuration descriptor. This first monitoring timer can be activated at the end of the monitoring period of the DRX communication mechanism, and after the monitoring period ends, it will probe for forward data based on the presence of forward data. The addition of the first monitoring timer allows the base station to dynamically adjust the monitoring behavior of the satellite terminal according to network load and satellite terminal type, optimizing satellite terminal power consumption and network resource usage while ensuring communication reliability.
[0083] For example, the configuration descriptors are shown in Table 1:
[0084]
[0085] Table 1
[0086] S_DRX_on is the first listening timer in the configuration descriptor. This listening timer is a short-term pre-detection activity timer, which is activated at the end of the base station's listening period. The newly added T_DRX_On timer enables the satellite terminal to continue listening to the base station's transmitted signals at the end of the listening period.
[0087] As an example, the satellite terminal enables the DRX function according to the configured DRX configuration descriptor using the following parameters:
[0088] drx_enable: 1;
[0089] monitor_start_sfn: 888;
[0090] DRX_cycle: 20;
[0091] monitor_duration: 1;
[0092] T_DRX_on: 5;
[0093] S_DRX_on: 1.
[0094] It should be noted that S_DRX_on is the first listener timer, which is a newly added listener timer defined in the table corresponding to the above configuration descriptor; T_DRX_on is the second listener timer, which is an existing listener timer defined in the table corresponding to the above configuration descriptor.
[0095] The satellite terminal and the base station can determine the activation mode of the second listening timer T_DRX_on by whether the configuration value of the newly added S_DRX_on timer is non-zero.
[0096] This example demonstrates enabling the DRX function. It is enabled when monitor_start_sfn = 888. Each DRX_cycle lasts 20ms, and the monitor_duration lasts 1ms. During this period, the ground base station and satellite terminal need to ensure that broadcast and control signaling can communicate correctly.
[0097] When the listening period ends, if the configured value of the S_DRX_on timer is non-zero, the satellite terminal immediately starts the S_DRX_on timer, currently configured to 1ms. During this 1ms pre-detection period, the satellite terminal continuously listens for forward data. If forward data is detected, the satellite terminal can directly start or refresh the existing T_DRX_on timer after the S_DRX_on timer expires and continue receiving data. If no forward data is detected, the satellite terminal immediately enters a sleep state after the S_DRX_on timer expires, and the ground base station does not send forward data to the satellite terminal. This process does not require additional broadcast signaling, and the S_DRX_on timer is flexibly configurable, enabling implicit activation or deactivation of the T_DRX_on timer.
[0098] Step S220: Based on the configuration descriptor, configure the communication period corresponding to the discontinuous reception communication mode. The communication period includes a listening period and a sleep period.
[0099] The communication cycle refers to the complete listening and sleep cycle of a satellite terminal in discontinuous reception communication mode. This communication cycle is dynamically set by the base station through a configuration descriptor. The listening period is the time during which the satellite terminal keeps its radio frequency module active, listening for communication commands from the base station. During the listening period, the satellite terminal continuously detects forward signals and receives scheduling commands or data notifications. After the listening period ends, if no valid signaling is received, the satellite terminal automatically enters the sleep period.
[0100] After the satellite terminal receives the configuration descriptor from the base station, it can be determined that the satellite terminal can communicate based on the DRX communication mechanism, and the communication period corresponding to the discontinuous reception communication mode can be configured for the satellite terminal. Specifically, a listening period and a sleep period can be configured for the satellite terminal.
[0101] Step S230: At the end of the listening period, the first listening timer is triggered to listen to the signal of the base station.
[0102] In discontinuous reception communication mode, the satellite terminal can trigger a first listening timer to continuously monitor the base station's signal. That is, it can trigger the first listening timer to continuously monitor the base station's signal after the listening period ends. When the satellite terminal completes the listening period in a communication cycle, and the signal interaction with the base station is not completely interrupted after the listening period ends, it can trigger a pre-configured first listening timer to set a specific wake-up listening point after the listening period ends, and monitor the base station's signal.
[0103] Specifically, after the listening period ends, the satellite terminal can shut down most of its radio frequency modules to reduce power consumption, but the first listening timer begins. When the timer reaches a preset value, the satellite terminal can maintain radio frequency and be in a wake-up state. Based on this wake-up state, it can scan the base station's key signaling channels to check for any urgent instructions or high-priority data targeting itself.
[0104] If no valid forward signal satellite terminal is detected within the monitoring period corresponding to the first monitoring timer, the satellite terminal can start the second monitoring timer and continuously monitor the forward signal of the base station based on the second monitoring timer.
[0105] If no valid forward signal is detected during the listening period corresponding to the first listening timer, the satellite terminal can immediately re-enter the sleep state until the listening period of the next communication cycle arrives.
[0106] If a signal is detected, the hibernation will end, and the system will continue to listen for and process information sent by the base station.
[0107] Thus, the low-power characteristics of the sleep period are preserved, and on-demand wake-up is achieved after the listening period ends through the first listening timer and / or the second listening timer, avoiding the loss of emergency information due to long periods of complete sleep.
[0108] For example, after the listening period ends, the value of the first listening timer S_DRX_on can be used to determine whether the first listening timer S_DRX_on should be activated during the sleep period. Specifically, the first listening timer S_DRX_on can take values from 0 to 7. When the first listening timer S_DRX_on is configured to 0, it can be activated during the sleep period; when the first listening timer S_DRX_on is configured to be non-zero, the satellite terminal can immediately start the first listening timer S_DRX_on, while canceling or implicitly activating the second listening timer T_DRX_on.
[0109] Please see Figure 2A , Figure 2A This is a schematic diagram illustrating the communication mechanism of the satellite terminal DRX according to this application. Specifically, after the Monitor Duration ends, this application determines whether to activate the original T_DRX_on monitoring timer of the satellite terminal based on the S_DRX_on timer newly added in the configuration descriptor. Throughout the entire DRX Cycle, it can flexibly monitor signals from the base station. While reducing communication signaling overhead based on the DRX communication mechanism, it optimizes signal synchronization, reduces data wake-up delay, lowers communication lag, and ensures the real-time data transmission of the satellite communication system.
[0110] Please see Figure 2B , Figure 2B This is a schematic diagram of a specific process on the satellite terminal side of this application. Specifically, when the listening period ends, it can be determined whether the S_DRX_on timer is greater than 0. If the S_DRX_on timer is not greater than 0, it waits for the T_DRX_on timer in the configuration descriptor to be activated. If the S_DRX_on timer is greater than 0, the newly added S_DRX_on timer can be started. During the listening period of the S_DRX_on timer, it is determined whether forward data from the base station is received. If forward data from the base station is received during the listening period of the S_DRX_on timer, T_DRX_on is activated after the S_DRX_on timer ends. If no forward data from the base station is received during the listening period of the S_DRX_on timer, it enters a dormant period after the S_DRX_on timer ends.
[0111] This application receives a configuration descriptor from a base station, which includes a first listening timer, a newly added listening timer within the configuration descriptor. Based on the configuration descriptor, a communication period corresponding to a discontinuous reception communication mode is configured, including a listening period and a sleep period. At the end of the listening period, the first listening timer is triggered to monitor the base station's signal. Thus, by triggering the first listening timer after the listening period ends, the satellite terminal can continue to monitor the base station signal, avoiding the problem of complete signal reception interruption after the listening period ends. This allows for timely capture of forward service data sent by the base station, reducing wake-up delay, lowering communication lag, and ensuring the real-time data transmission of the satellite communication system.
[0112] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 3 This application is based on a signal monitoring method Figure 2 The flowchart shown provides a sub-flow diagram. Figure 3 The flowchart shown includes steps S310 to S320.
[0113] Step S310: Identify the configuration value in the configuration descriptor, which is used to determine the activation state of the first listening timer.
[0114] This configuration value includes zero and non-zero values.
[0115] After receiving the configuration descriptor from the base station, the satellite terminal can analyze the data in the configuration descriptor and determine the activation status of the first listening timer based on the configuration value in the configuration descriptor.
[0116] If the configuration value is zero, determine whether the first listening timer is active or not. That is, if the configuration value is zero, the first listening timer is not activated, and the system waits for the second listening timer to be activated to listen to the forward signal of the base station.
[0117] If the configuration value is non-zero, the activation state of the first listening timer is determined to be yes. That is, if the configuration value is non-zero, the first listening timer is activated to continuously listen to the forward signal of the base station.
[0118] Step S320: Based on the configuration value, determine whether to trigger the first listening timer to listen to the base station signal.
[0119] Based on the configuration value of the first listening timer, determine whether the satellite terminal has activated the first listening timer.
[0120] Specifically, if the configuration value of S_DRX_on is set to a non-zero value, the satellite terminal can automatically activate the first listening timer. By directly starting the newly defined first listening timer, it can continuously listen to the forward signals of the base station without relying on a valid terminal descriptor. Therefore, it is unnecessary to execute the receiving of a valid terminal descriptor and the T_DRX_on step in response to that valid terminal descriptor. If the value of S_DRX_on is set to zero, the satellite terminal uses the traditional method. After receiving a valid terminal descriptor, it starts the second listening timer T_DRX_on in response to that valid terminal descriptor to listen to the forward signals of the base station, thus maintaining compatibility with the old mechanism.
[0121] In addition, delays can be avoided when the configuration value of S_DRX_on is set to a non-zero value.
[0122] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of a sub-process of this application. In a specific embodiment, the configuration value may include a zero value and a non-zero value; the step of determining whether to trigger a first listening timer to listen to the base station signal based on the configuration value includes:
[0123] (1) If the configuration value is zero, wait for a valid terminal descriptor and start the second listening timer based on the valid terminal descriptor to listen to the base station signal. The second listening timer is the original listening timer in the configuration descriptor.
[0124] (2) If the configuration value is non-zero, the first listening timer is started to listen to the base station signal.
[0125] It should be noted that when the S_DRX_on configuration value is non-zero, the satellite terminal can maintain communication with the base station by activating the first listening timer, i.e., the S_DRX_on timer. However, when the configuration value is zero, the satellite terminal still uses the traditional method, determining the activation of the second listening timer T_DRX_On by receiving a valid terminal descriptor from the base station, thus maintaining compatibility with the older mechanism.
[0126] This valid terminal descriptor is the effective terminal descriptor for satellite terminals to interact with base stations under the DRX mechanism. It is broadcast by the base station via Terminal Information Message Broadcast (TIM-B). The descriptor contains information such as the satellite terminal cycle count and satellite terminal identifier, which is used to inform the satellite terminal whether the T_DRX_On timer needs to be activated. By receiving this descriptor, the satellite terminal can obtain the wake-up-related instructions from the base station, thereby reducing broadcast signaling overhead and lowering wake-up latency.
[0127] Please see Figure 4A , Figure 4A This is a schematic diagram illustrating an interaction process between the satellite terminal and the base station for communication according to this application. Specifically, the satellite terminal can control the PDU to send a DRX configuration request to the base station. The base station generates a corresponding configuration descriptor based on the DRX configuration request and sends the configuration descriptor to the satellite terminal via TIM-U. The satellite terminal configures its DRX communication protocol according to the configuration descriptor. On the satellite terminal side, it can determine whether to activate the first listening timer based on the configuration value in the configuration descriptor. When the configuration value is non-zero, the first listening timer can be started, and the forward signal of the base station can be continuously monitored based on the first listening timer, without needing to determine whether to enable T_DRX_on based on the DRX valid terminal descriptor.
[0128] It should be noted that after starting the first listening timer and completing the forward signal listening for a preset duration using the first listening timer, a second listening timer T_DRX_on can be started to continuously listen to the forward signal of the base station.
[0129] Therefore, by flexibly monitoring the forward signals from the base station through the first monitoring timer S_DRX_on and the second monitoring timer T_DRX_on, the problem of the satellite terminal completely interrupting signal reception after the monitoring period ends is avoided. This allows the satellite terminal to capture the forward service data or wake-up commands sent by the base station in a timely manner, reduce data wake-up delay, reduce communication lag, and ensure the real-time data transmission of the satellite communication system.
[0130] Please see Figure 4B , Figure 4B This diagram illustrates another interaction process for communication between the satellite terminal and the base station in this application. Specifically, the satellite terminal can control the PDU to send a DRX configuration request to the base station. The base station generates a corresponding configuration descriptor based on the DRX configuration request and sends the configuration descriptor to the satellite terminal via TIM-U. The satellite terminal configures its DRX communication protocol according to the configuration descriptor. On the satellite terminal side, activation can be determined based on the configuration value in the configuration descriptor. When the configuration value is zero, it can directly wait for the DRX valid terminal descriptor and skip the first listening timer S_DRX_on, then start the second listening timer T_DRX_on based on the DRX valid terminal descriptor.
[0131] In addition, during the listening period when the T_DRX_On timer is running, the satellite terminal continuously checks whether it receives forward signals from the base station. The T_DRX_On timer is a timing tool used by the satellite terminal to maintain the receiver's operational state. After the timer starts, the satellite terminal maintains its receiving state to listen for forward service data transmitted by the base station. During the detection process, the satellite terminal analyzes the received signal to determine whether there is valid forward data for itself. When the T_DRX_On timer is running, the satellite terminal can perform this detection, whether activated by the traditional valid terminal descriptor or by the pre-probe mechanism. If forward data is detected, the satellite terminal refreshes the T_DRX_On timer to extend the listening duration; if no data is detected, the satellite terminal will enter a sleep state after the timer expires, thereby balancing power consumption while ensuring data reception.
[0132] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 5 This application is based on a signal monitoring method Figure 4 The flowchart shown provides a flowchart of an extended solution. Figure 5 The flowchart shown includes steps S510 to S530.
[0133] Step S510: Detect whether forward data from the base station is received during the listening period of the first listening timer.
[0134] When the satellite terminal listens to the forward data from the base station through either the second listening timer or the first listening timer, it can detect whether it has received a forward signal from the base station.
[0135] After starting the first listening timer to listen to the base station's signal, it is also possible to detect whether forward data from the base station is detected during the listening period of the first listening timer.
[0136] During the first listening timer S_DRX_On, the satellite terminal continuously checks whether it has received forward data from the base station. The S_DRX_On timer is a timing tool used by the satellite terminal to maintain the receiver's operational state. After this timer starts, the satellite terminal maintains its receiving state to listen for forward service data transmitted by the base station. During the detection process, the satellite terminal analyzes the received signal to determine whether there is valid forward data for itself.
[0137] It should be noted that the satellite terminal can perform this detection when the S_DRX_On timer is running. If forward data is detected, the satellite terminal will refresh the S_DRX_On timer to extend the listening duration; if no data is detected, the satellite terminal will enter a sleep state after the timer expires, thereby balancing power consumption while ensuring data reception.
[0138] Step S520: If forward data is received during the listening period of the first listening timer, then after the listening period of the first listening timer ends, the second listening timer is activated to continuously listen to the signal of the base station.
[0139] If the satellite terminal does not receive forward data from the base station during the S_DRX_On timer's monitoring period, the T_DRX_On timer will be automatically activated after the current monitoring period ends to enable continuous monitoring of the base station signal. Specifically, the timer duration can be reset to ensure that the satellite terminal receiver remains operational and to prevent data reception from being interrupted due to the timer expiring and entering sleep mode.
[0140] For example, if T_DRX_On is initially configured to 5ms, and forward data is received during the listening period, the timer will restart from 5ms, extending the listening window. The data-triggered refresh mechanism avoids invalid listening when there is no data, thus controlling power consumption while ensuring communication continuity.
[0141] Step S530: If no forward data is received during the listening period of the second listening timer, the listening period ends and the system enters a sleep period.
[0142] When a satellite terminal does not receive forward data from the base station during the listening period of the S_DRX_On timer, the satellite terminal will stop receiving data and enter a sleep state after the current listening period ends.
[0143] In addition, if no data is received during the pre-detection phase, the satellite terminal will directly enter hibernation; if no data is received after the pre-detection phase activates T_DRX_On, it will also enter hibernation in a timely manner.
[0144] For example, if T_DRX_On is configured to 5ms and no forward data is detected within these 5ms, the satellite terminal will immediately shut down the receiver and enter sleep mode after the timer expires to save energy.
[0145] This optimizes the overall power consumption management of the satellite terminal, preventing it from continuously receiving data when there is no data transmission, thus reducing unnecessary power consumption.
[0146] Please see Figure 6 The following embodiments use the aforementioned base station as the execution subject, applying the method provided in the embodiments of this application to the aforementioned base station. Figure 6 As shown, the signal monitoring method provided in this application embodiment includes the following steps S610 to S630.
[0147] Step S610: Receive a configuration request for discontinuous reception communication from the satellite terminal.
[0148] After establishing a DRX communication mechanism with the satellite terminal, the base station can receive configuration requests for discontinuous reception communication from the satellite terminal. When the satellite terminal needs to enable the DRX function to save power due to its own state, it will send a DRX configuration request to the ground base station via a reverse control PDU (Protocol Data Unit). Upon receiving this request, the base station will use it as a trigger condition for subsequent DRX parameter configuration.
[0149] Upon receiving this request, the base station can clearly define the DRX function activation requirement of the satellite terminal, and then prepare the corresponding DRX configuration descriptor. The DRX configuration descriptor includes core parameters such as DRX period and listening duration, as well as the newly added S_DRX_On timer parameter, and broadcasts it to the satellite terminal via TIM-U to complete the initial configuration of the DRX function.
[0150] Step S620: Generate a configuration descriptor for discontinuous reception communication based on the configuration request. The configuration descriptor includes a first listening timer, which is a newly added listening timer in the configuration descriptor.
[0151] After receiving a Discontinuous Reception (DRX) configuration request sent by the satellite terminal via the reverse control PDU, the base station generates a corresponding DRX configuration descriptor (DRX_config_descriptor). This descriptor retains essential parameters from existing technologies, such as DRX_cycle, monitor_duration, and T_DRX_on (the first monitoring timer used to calculate the receiver's working timer), and adds a short-term pre-detection activity timer S_DRX_On (the second monitoring timer used to continuously monitor the forward signal after the monitoring period ends), thereby configuring the pre-detection mechanism.
[0152] For example, the S_DRX_On parameter is incorporated into the configuration descriptor as a 3-bit field, with a value ranging from 0 to 7ms (in milliseconds). Its configuration value directly determines the activation method of the subsequent T_DRX_On timer. When configured as a non-zero value, the satellite terminal implicitly activates the timer based on whether the pre-detection data is available; when configured as 0, it is compatible with the traditional broadcast activation method. The base station assigns a value to this parameter according to the satellite terminal's requirements. For example, for satellite terminals with low latency requirements, a 1ms pre-detection duration is configured. Finally, the base station sends the configuration descriptor containing this parameter to the satellite terminal via TIM-U (unicast message), providing the execution basis for the subsequent DRX process.
[0153] Step S630: Send the configuration descriptor to the satellite terminal.
[0154] The base station sends the generated discontinuous reception communication configuration descriptor (DRX_config_descriptor) to the satellite terminal.
[0155] Specifically, transmission can be accomplished via Terminal Information Message Unicast (TIM-U).
[0156] The configuration descriptor includes the parameters required for the satellite terminal to enable the DRX function, including the existing DRX_cycle (monitoring cycle), monitor_duration (monitoring duration), T_DRX_on (receiver working timer), and the newly added S_DRX_On (short-term pre-detection activity timer) parameters.
[0157] The base station can transmit DRX configuration descriptors to satellite terminals via unicast, ensuring accurate delivery of configuration information to the target satellite terminal while avoiding the resource waste associated with broadcasting. For example, when a base station configures S_DRX_On = 1ms for a satellite terminal, the satellite terminal, upon receiving this configuration descriptor, can clearly understand that a 1ms pre-probe should be initiated after the listening window ends. Based on the pre-probe result, it can then autonomously decide whether to activate the T_DRX_on timer, providing clear parameter guidance for the subsequent DRX process.
[0158] Please see Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating an extended scheme based on the signal monitoring method provided in this application. Figure 7 The flowchart shown includes the following steps: S710.
[0159] Step S710: Based on the current forward business requirements, determine whether the first listening timer needs to be started.
[0160] In satellite communication systems, satellite terminals typically enter a sleep or low-power state under the DRX communication mechanism to save resources, and only start listening during specific periods or when triggered.
[0161] Based on the current forward link traffic volume, such as downlink data volume and service urgency, the base station determines whether to start a first listening timer. This first listening timer serves as a supplement to the second listening timer under the DRX communication mechanism and is used to deal with sudden or temporary forward service demands.
[0162] Step 720: Send forward data during the start of the first listener timer.
[0163] During the first listening timer, the satellite terminal remains active, and the base station uses this window to send forward data to the terminal to ensure timely service transmission.
[0164] Step 730: If forward data is sent during the start of the first listening timer, the second listening timer is activated after the first listening timer ends; otherwise, the system enters a sleep period.
[0165] If forward data is transmitted during the operation of the first listening timer, the second listening timer is activated after the listening period of the first listening timer ends to maintain the satellite terminal's listening state in order to respond to subsequent data; if no data is transmitted, the terminal enters a sleep period to avoid unnecessary power consumption and achieve a balance between service response and energy saving.
[0166] For example, suppose a satellite terminal uses the DRX communication mechanism. The default period of the second listener timer T_DRX_On is 100ms, and the satellite terminal is in sleep mode most of the time to save power. When the base station detects a sudden forward traffic after the listening period under this DRX communication mechanism has ended, the base station determines that the current traffic is urgent and that relying solely on the second listener timer may cause delays. Therefore, it decides to start the first listener timer, for example, setting a first listener timer S_DRX_On with a duration of 50ms, so that the satellite terminal enters the listening state in advance. During the listening operation of the first listener timer S_DRX_On with a period of 50ms, the satellite terminal remains active, and the base station quickly completes the transmission of urgent data, avoiding the delay of waiting for the next original period. If urgent data is indeed transmitted during the operation of the first listener timer S_DRX_On, the original T_DRX_On listener timer is activated after the preset 50ms listening period of the first listener timer S_DRX_On, allowing the satellite terminal to continue listening; if no data is transmitted, the terminal directly enters sleep mode without starting the second listener timer, thereby reducing unnecessary power consumption while ensuring service response speed.
[0167] It should be understood that although the steps in the flowchart are shown sequentially as indicated by the arrows, these steps are not necessarily executed in the order indicated by the arrows. Unless explicitly stated herein, there is no strict order constraint on the execution of these steps, and they can be executed in other orders. Moreover, at least some steps in the diagram may include multiple sub-steps or multiple stages. These sub-steps or stages are not necessarily completed at the same time, but can be executed at different times. The execution order of these sub-steps or stages is not necessarily sequential, but can be performed alternately or in turn with other steps or at least some of the sub-steps or stages of other steps.
[0168] Please see Figure 8 One embodiment of this application provides a signal monitoring system 800, which is applied to a satellite terminal. For example... Figure 8 As shown, the signal monitoring system 800 includes:
[0169] The first receiving unit 801 is used to receive a configuration descriptor from the base station, wherein the configuration descriptor includes a first listening timer;
[0170] Configuration unit 802 is configured to configure the communication period corresponding to the discontinuous reception communication mode based on the configuration descriptor, wherein the communication period includes a listening period and a sleep period;
[0171] The triggering unit 803 is used to trigger the first listening timer at the end of the listening period in order to listen to the signal of the base station.
[0172] Please see Figure 9 One embodiment of this application provides a signal monitoring system 900, which is applied to a base station. For example... Figure 9 As shown, the signal monitoring system 900 includes:
[0173] The second receiving unit 901 is used to receive configuration requests for discontinuous reception communication from the satellite terminal;
[0174] The generation unit 902 is used to generate a configuration descriptor for discontinuous reception communication based on the configuration request. The configuration descriptor includes a first listening timer, which is a newly added listening timer in the configuration descriptor.
[0175] The transmitting unit 903 is used to transmit the configuration descriptor to the satellite terminal.
[0176] Specific limitations regarding the signal monitoring systems 800 and 900 can be found in the limitations of the signal monitoring method described above, and will not be repeated here. Each module in the signal monitoring system 800 can be implemented entirely or partially through software, hardware, or a combination thereof. These modules can be embedded in hardware or independently of the processor in the satellite terminal, or stored in software in the memory of the satellite terminal, so that the processor can call and execute the corresponding operations of each module.
[0177] In one embodiment, a satellite terminal is provided, the internal structure of which can be shown as follows: Figure 10As shown. The satellite terminal includes a processor, memory, network interface, and database connected via a system bus. The processor provides computing and control capabilities. The memory includes a non-volatile storage medium and internal memory. The non-volatile storage medium stores an operating system, computer programs, and a database. The internal memory provides an environment for the operation of the operating system and computer programs in the non-volatile storage medium. The database stores data. The network interface communicates with external satellite terminals via a network connection. When the computer program is executed by the processor, it implements the signal monitoring method described above. It includes: a memory and a processor; the memory stores a computer program; and the processor executes the computer program to implement any step of the signal monitoring method described above.
[0178] In one embodiment, a base station is provided that stores a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, can perform any of the steps in the signal monitoring method described above.
[0179] Those skilled in the art will understand that embodiments of this application can provide methods, systems, or computer program products. Therefore, this application can take the form of a completely hardware embodiment, a completely software embodiment, or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects. Furthermore, this application can take the form of a computer program product embodied on one or more computer-usable storage media (including, but not limited to, disk storage, CD-ROM, optical storage, etc.) containing computer-usable program code.
[0180] This application is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to embodiments of this application. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, embedded processor, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, generate instructions for implementing the flowchart... Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 A device that provides the functions specified in one or more boxes.
[0181] These computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer-readable storage medium that can direct a computer or other programmable data processing device to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium produce an article of manufacture including instruction means, which are implemented in a process Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The function specified in one or more boxes.
[0182] These computer program instructions may also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing equipment to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable equipment to produce a computer-implemented process, thereby providing instructions that execute on the computer or other programmable equipment for implementing the process. Figure 1 One or more processes and / or boxes Figure 1 The steps of the function specified in one or more boxes.
[0183] Although preferred embodiments of this application have been described, those skilled in the art, upon learning the basic inventive concept, can make other changes and modifications to these embodiments. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to be interpreted as including the preferred embodiments as well as all changes and modifications falling within the scope of this application.
[0184] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this application without departing from the spirit and scope of this application. Therefore, if such modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this application also intends to include such modifications and variations.
Claims
1. A signal monitoring method, characterized in that, The signal monitoring method is used in a satellite terminal and includes: Receive a configuration descriptor from a base station, the configuration descriptor containing a first listening timer, the first listening timer being a newly added listening timer in the configuration descriptor; Based on the configuration descriptor, configure the communication period corresponding to the discontinuous reception communication mode, wherein the communication period includes a listening period and a sleep period; At the end of the monitoring period, the first monitoring timer is triggered to monitor the signal of the base station.
2. The signal monitoring method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of triggering the listening timer includes: Identify the configuration value in the configuration descriptor, the configuration value being used to determine the activation state of the first listening timer; Based on the configuration value, determine whether to trigger the first listening timer to listen to the signal of the base station.
3. The signal monitoring method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The configuration values include zero values and non-zero values; The step of determining whether to trigger the first monitoring timer to monitor the signal of the base station based on the configuration value includes: If the configuration value is zero, then wait for a valid terminal descriptor and start a second listening timer based on the valid terminal descriptor to listen to the signal of the base station. The second listening timer is the original listening timer in the configuration descriptor. If the configuration value is non-zero, the first listening timer is started to listen to the signal of the base station.
4. The signal monitoring method according to claim 3, characterized in that, After the step of starting the first listening timer to listen to the signal of the base station, the signal listening method further includes: Detect whether forward data from the base station is received during the listening period of the first listening timer; If forward data is received during the listening period of the first listening timer, the second listening timer is activated after the listening period of the first listening timer ends, for continuous listening of the base station signal; If no forward data is received during the listening period of the second listening timer, the listening period ends and the system enters a sleep period.
5. A signal monitoring method, characterized in that, The signal monitoring method is used for a base station and includes: Receive configuration requests for discontinuous reception of communications from satellite terminals; A configuration descriptor for discontinuous reception communication is generated based on the configuration request. The configuration descriptor includes a first listening timer, which is a newly added listening timer in the configuration descriptor. The configuration descriptor is sent to the satellite terminal.
6. The signal monitoring method according to claim 5, characterized in that, After the step of sending the configuration descriptor to the satellite terminal, the signal monitoring method further includes: Based on the current forward business requirements, determine whether the first listening timer needs to be started; Forward data is sent during the start of the first listener timer; If forward data is sent during the start of the first listener timer, the second listener timer is activated after the first listener timer ends; otherwise, it enters a sleep period.
7. A signal monitoring system, characterized in that, The signal monitoring system is applied to a satellite terminal and includes: receiving configuration requests from discontinuous reception communications from the satellite terminal; The first receiving unit is configured to receive a configuration descriptor from a base station, wherein the configuration descriptor contains a first listening timer, and the first listening timer is a newly added listening timer in the configuration descriptor; A configuration unit is configured, based on the configuration descriptor, to configure the communication period corresponding to the discontinuous reception communication mode, wherein the communication period includes a listening period and a sleep period; The triggering unit is used to trigger the first listening timer at the end of the listening period in order to listen to the signal of the base station.
8. A signal monitoring system, characterized in that, The signal monitoring system is applied to the base station and includes: The second receiving unit is used to receive configuration requests for discontinuous reception communication from the satellite terminal; A generation unit is configured to generate a configuration descriptor for discontinuous reception communication based on the configuration request. The configuration descriptor includes a first listening timer, which is a newly added listening timer in the configuration descriptor. A sending unit is used to send the configuration descriptor to a satellite terminal.
9. A satellite terminal, comprising: A memory and a processor, the memory storing a computer program, characterized in that the processor, when executing the computer program, implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 6.
10. A base station, comprising: A memory and a processor, the memory storing a computer program, characterized in that the processor, when executing the computer program, implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 6.