Star search method, device and terminal equipment

Abstract

This application provides a satellite search method, apparatus, and terminal equipment, which can be used in the field of satellite communication. Based on this method, when the terminal equipment is powered on, it first determines whether a first trigger condition is met; based on the meeting of the first trigger condition, it determines to use a first satellite search mode; the first satellite search mode uses first information related to the first trigger condition to search for satellites; and based on the first satellite search mode, it executes a satellite search operation. This enables more efficient and accurate searching and access to qualified satellites, improving the efficiency of satellite search and network access for the terminal equipment, reducing the satellite search failure rate, shortening user waiting time, and providing users with a better communication experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of satellite communication technology, and in particular relates to satellite search methods, devices and terminal equipment. Background Technology

[0002] For terrestrial mobile communication services, mobile phones and other devices typically only support normal communication functions within the coverage area of ​​terrestrial base stations. However, for special areas such as deserts and seas where terrestrial base stations cannot effectively cover, satellite communication is required. Low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite systems, with their low latency and low cost, can be combined with mobile communication to enable high-capacity short message reporting services, filling the gaps in mobile communication services in these special areas.

[0003] Specifically, large-scale constellations of multiple low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites are typically used to support mobile communication services. For example, the Iridium LEO constellation consists of 66 LEO satellites at an altitude of 780 km, employing a phased array antenna with 48 beams in the L-band for both transmission and reception. The downlink broadcast signals from these 66 satellites use a fixed frequency, and each satellite's 48 beams poll at the same frequency every 4.32 seconds to achieve global coverage. While the polling mechanism with 48 beams can address beam interference, the overall cycle is relatively long. As the number of beams increases, the cycle also increases. This results in longer downlink broadcast times and longer satellite acquisition times for mobile devices, leading to longer connection times and increased user wait times. Furthermore, although the Iridium LEO constellation, with its 66 satellites, rarely experiences multi-satellite coverage issues, as the satellite count expands, certain areas on the ground may experience multiple satellite coverage. This can lead to co-channel interference between downlink broadcast signals from different satellites during mobile communication, making it more likely that mobile phones and other devices will fail to search for satellites and connect to the network, thus affecting the user experience.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a method that can efficiently and accurately achieve satellite search. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a satellite search method, apparatus, and terminal equipment, which can search for and access qualified satellites more efficiently and accurately, improve the efficiency of satellite search and network access of terminal equipment, and reduce the satellite search failure rate.

[0006] This application provides a satellite search method, applied to a terminal device, including:

[0007] The first triggering condition has been met;

[0008] Based on the fulfillment of the first triggering condition, it is determined that the first satellite search mode will be used; the first satellite search mode uses first information related to the first triggering condition for satellite search.

[0009] Based on the first satellite search mode, perform a satellite search operation.

[0010] In one embodiment, the method further includes: determining that a second triggering condition is met; and determining to use a second satellite search mode based on the satisfaction of the second triggering condition.

[0011] In one embodiment, the second satellite search mode is frequency-by-frequency scanning satellite search.

[0012] In one embodiment, the first triggering condition includes: the terminal device stores satellite search assistance information.

[0013] In one embodiment, the satellite search assistance information includes: first historical connection information; the first historical connection information includes: communication parameters when connecting to satellites in the past.

[0014] In one embodiment, performing a satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode includes:

[0015] Based on the first historical connection information, obtain the corresponding historical downlink broadcast signal frequency points and time-frequency offset information;

[0016] Based on the historical downlink broadcast signal frequency points and time-frequency offset information, a satellite search operation is performed.

[0017] In one embodiment, the satellite search assistance information includes ephemeris information.

[0018] In one embodiment, performing a satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode includes:

[0019] Based on ephemeris information, the target satellite that matches the current location information of the terminal device is identified, as well as the target downlink broadcast signal frequency and time-frequency offset information of the target satellite;

[0020] Based on the target downlink broadcast signal frequency and time-frequency offset information, a satellite search operation is performed.

[0021] In one embodiment, the satellite search assistance information includes: first historical connection information and ephemeris information.

[0022] In one embodiment, performing a satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode includes:

[0023] If the difference between the last update time and the current time of the ephemeris information is not greater than a preset effective update duration threshold, a star search operation is performed based on the ephemeris information.

[0024] If the difference between the last update time of the ephemeris information and the current time is greater than a preset effective update duration threshold, a satellite search operation is performed based on the first historical connection information.

[0025] In one embodiment, before determining that the first triggering condition is met, the method further includes:

[0026] When the terminal device is powered on for the first time, a satellite search operation is performed based on the ephemeris information.

[0027] In one embodiment, if a star search operation is performed based on the ephemeris information and the star search fails, the method further includes:

[0028] Based on the first historical connection information, the satellite search operation is re-executed.

[0029] In one embodiment, if a satellite search operation is performed based on the first historical connection information, and the satellite search fails, the method further includes:

[0030] Based on the ephemeris information, the star search operation is re-executed.

[0031] In one embodiment, performing a satellite search operation includes:

[0032] Search for the corresponding downlink broadcast signal and monitor the signal power value of the downlink broadcast signal.

[0033] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0034] During the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode, it is determined whether the mode switching trigger condition is met.

[0035] Based on the fulfillment of the aforementioned mode switching triggering conditions, it is determined that the second satellite search mode will be used;

[0036] Based on the second satellite search mode, a satellite search operation is performed.

[0037] In one embodiment, the mode switching triggering conditions include: the search duration is greater than a preset satellite search duration, and / or the signal power value of the searched downlink broadcast signal is not greater than a preset power threshold value.

[0038] In one embodiment, based on the second satellite search mode, performing a satellite search operation includes:

[0039] Search for relevant downlink broadcast signals based on preset downlink broadcast signal frequencies;

[0040] Target access information is obtained based on the signal power value of the relevant downlink broadcast signal.

[0041] In one embodiment, based on the second satellite search mode, performing a satellite search operation includes:

[0042] Search for relevant downlink broadcast signals in parallel mode; or search for relevant downlink broadcast signals in serial mode.

[0043] In one embodiment, the method further includes:

[0044] If satellite acquisition is successful, demodulate the corresponding downlink broadcast signal and update the local ephemeris information.

[0045] This application also provides a satellite search method, applied to a terminal device, including:

[0046] During the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode, it is determined that the mode switching trigger condition is met.

[0047] Based on the fulfillment of the aforementioned mode switching triggering conditions, it is determined that the second satellite search mode will be used;

[0048] Based on the second satellite search mode, a satellite search operation is performed.

[0049] This application also provides a satellite search device, including:

[0050] The first determining module is used to determine whether the first triggering condition is met;

[0051] The second determining module is used to determine, based on the fulfillment of the first triggering condition, to use a first satellite search mode; the first satellite search mode uses first information related to the first triggering condition for satellite search.

[0052] The execution module is used to perform satellite search operations based on the first satellite search mode.

[0053] This application also provides a satellite search device, including:

[0054] The determination module is used to determine whether the mode switching trigger condition is met during the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode.

[0055] The switching module is used to determine the use of the second satellite search mode based on the satisfaction of the mode switching trigger condition;

[0056] The execution module is used to perform satellite search operations based on the second satellite search mode.

[0057] This application also provides a terminal device, including a processor and a memory for storing processor-executable instructions, wherein the processor executes the instructions to implement the relevant steps of the satellite search method.

[0058] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer instructions thereon, which, when executed by a processor, implement the steps of the satellite search method.

[0059] Based on the satellite search method, apparatus, and terminal equipment provided in this application, when the terminal equipment is powered on, it first determines whether a first triggering condition is met. If the first triggering condition is met, a first satellite search mode with higher efficiency and reliability can be prioritized. This first satellite search mode uses first information related to the first triggering condition for satellite search. Based on the first satellite search model, the satellite search operation is specifically executed. This enables the efficient and accurate search for and access to qualified satellites, effectively improving the efficiency of satellite search and network access for the terminal equipment, reducing the satellite search failure rate, shortening the user's waiting time, and thus providing the user with a better communication experience. Attached Figure Description

[0060] To more clearly illustrate the embodiments of this specification, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. The drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in this specification. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0061] Figure 1 This is a schematic flowchart of a satellite search method provided in one embodiment of this specification;

[0062] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of the satellite search method provided in this specification, applied in a scenario example.

[0063] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of the satellite search method provided in this specification, applied in a scenario example.

[0064] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of the satellite search method provided in this specification, applied in a scenario example.

[0065] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of the satellite search method provided in this specification, applied in a scenario example.

[0066] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of the satellite search method provided in this specification, applied in a scenario example.

[0067] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structural composition of a terminal device provided in one embodiment of this specification;

[0068] Figure 8This is a schematic diagram of the structural composition of a satellite search device provided in one embodiment of this specification;

[0069] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram illustrating one embodiment of the satellite search method provided in the embodiments of this specification, applied in a scenario example. Detailed Implementation

[0070] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions in this specification, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this specification will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this specification, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this specification, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of this specification.

[0071] It should be noted that the information and data related to users involved in the embodiments of this specification are all information and data authorized by the user or fully authorized by the relevant parties. Furthermore, the collection, storage, use, processing, transmission, provision, disclosure, and application of the relevant data all comply with relevant laws, regulations, and standards, and necessary confidentiality measures have been taken. They do not violate public order and good morals, and corresponding operation entry points are provided for users or relevant parties to choose to authorize or refuse.

[0072] It should also be noted that in the embodiments of this specification, certain software, components, models and other existing solutions in the industry may be mentioned. These should be regarded as exemplary and are only intended to illustrate the feasibility of implementing the technical solution of this application. However, it does not mean that the applicant has used or necessarily used the solution.

[0073] See Figure 1 As shown in the embodiments of this specification, a satellite search method is provided. This method can be applied to a terminal device. In specific implementation, the method may include the following:

[0074] S101: Determined that the first triggering condition is met;

[0075] S102: Based on the fulfillment of the first triggering condition, determine to use the first satellite search mode; the first satellite search mode uses first information related to the first triggering condition for satellite search;

[0076] S103: Perform a satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode.

[0077] The aforementioned satellites can be low-Earth orbit (LEO), medium-Earth orbit (MEO), high-Earth orbit (HEO), or other types of satellites. This specification primarily uses LEO satellites as an example for detailed explanation. For other types of satellites, please refer to the relevant embodiments for LEO satellites.

[0078] The aforementioned low-Earth orbit (or low-Earth orbit communication satellite) specifically refers to satellites deployed and operated in relatively low orbits (for example, generally several hundred to two thousand kilometers above the Earth's surface). Due to the low orbital altitude, transmission delays are short, path losses are minimal, and it features low latency and low cost.

[0079] Specifically, multiple low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites can be combined to form a large LEO satellite system that supports real-time information processing, and the distribution of these satellites can be referred to as a satellite constellation.

[0080] The aforementioned terminal equipment can be understood as a type of ground-based equipment that supports satellite communication. Specifically, this terminal equipment can be a mobile phone, an Internet of Things (IoT) terminal, a satellite phone, a computer, etc.

[0081] It should be noted that the terminal devices listed above are merely illustrative. In actual implementation, depending on the specific application scenario and processing requirements, the terminal devices may also include other types of electronic devices. This specification does not limit this.

[0082] Specifically, the aforementioned first satellite search mode can also be called the hot start mode. Based on the first satellite search mode, existing first information related to the first triggering condition can be used to determine and perform a relatively targeted and rapid search based on the downlink broadcast signal frequency that meets the requirements, so as to complete the satellite search operation.

[0083] The aforementioned second satellite search mode can also be called the cold start mode. Specifically, this second satellite search mode is a frequency-by-frequency scan satellite search. In detail, based on this second satellite search mode, the satellite search operation can be completed by scanning and searching one by one according to multiple preset second pieces of information.

[0084] Specifically, the aforementioned first information may include: satellite search assistance information. Specifically, the aforementioned satellite search assistance information may include: first historical connection information and / or ephemeris information.

[0085] The aforementioned first historical connection information may include: communication parameters from previous satellite connections. These communication parameters may further include: communication parameters from the last satellite connection, and / or matching communication parameters from a previous connection.

[0086] The aforementioned communication parameters may specifically include the downlink broadcast signal frequency used when communicating with satellites, as well as corresponding parameters such as Doppler frequency offset and time delay.

[0087] The aforementioned ephemeris information, also known as two-line orbital element (TLE), can be understood as a data expression used to describe the position and velocity of a spacecraft. Typically, spacecraft such as satellites, spacecraft, or other flying objects are listed in the NORAD satellite ephemeris catalog after entering space. Spacecraft listed in the NORAD satellite ephemeris catalog are tracked for their entire lifespan until they disappear from the orbit.

[0088] The second piece of information mentioned above may specifically include: preset downlink broadcast signal frequency.

[0089] The aforementioned preset downlink broadcast signal frequencies may specifically include a preset number of downlink broadcast signal frequencies related to the satellite system that are pre-installed in the terminal equipment before leaving the factory.

[0090] Specifically, for example, to enable more comprehensive connectivity with low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite systems, four preset downlink broadcast signal frequencies can be pre-set on the terminal device. Of course, depending on the specific circumstances and the corresponding LEO satellite system, other values ​​can be set as the preset number.

[0091] For specific implementation, please refer to Figure 2 As shown, when the terminal device detects that it is powered on, it triggers a check to see if a first trigger condition is met. This first trigger condition can be understood as a preset condition that triggers entry into the first satellite search mode.

[0092] Specifically, the first triggering condition mentioned above may include: the terminal device stores satellite search assistance information.

[0093] In practice, when the terminal device stores satellite search assistance information, the first triggering condition can be determined to be met. Conversely, when the terminal device does not store satellite search assistance information, the second triggering condition can be determined to be met.

[0094] In specific implementation, when the first triggering condition is met, the terminal device determines to use the first satellite search mode based on the met first triggering condition; and based on the first satellite search mode, performs a satellite search operation using the first information according to the corresponding rules. When the second triggering condition is met, the terminal device can determine to use the second satellite search mode based on the met second triggering condition; and based on the second satellite search mode, performs a satellite search operation using the second information according to the corresponding rules.

[0095] In this way, when the first triggering condition is met, the system can be initiated first and based on the first satellite search mode, using satellite search assistance information to search for and access satellites that meet the requirements more efficiently and accurately. This improves the efficiency of satellite search and network access for terminal devices, shortens the user's waiting time, and enables users to obtain a better communication experience.

[0096] In specific implementation, during the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode, the terminal device can also monitor whether the mode switching trigger condition is met; wherein, the above-mentioned mode switching trigger condition can be understood as a preset condition for triggering the switch from the first satellite search mode to the second satellite search mode.

[0097] Specifically, the above-mentioned mode switching trigger conditions include: the search duration is greater than the preset satellite search duration, and / or the signal power value of the searched downlink broadcast signal is not greater than the preset power threshold value.

[0098] In practice, if the switching trigger conditions are not met, the terminal device can continue to search for satellites based on the first satellite search mode until the satellite search operation is successfully completed and the corresponding satellite is accessed for satellite communication.

[0099] Conversely, when the switching trigger conditions are met, it can be determined that the first satellite search mode has failed, or that the first satellite search mode cannot efficiently and successfully search for a satellite that meets the requirements. At this time, the terminal device can promptly start and switch to the second satellite search mode, and then continue satellite search based on the second satellite search mode.

[0100] In this way, during the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode, the system can automatically monitor whether the switching trigger conditions are met to determine whether the satellite search can be successfully completed based on the first satellite search mode. If the switching trigger conditions are met, the system can automatically switch to the second satellite search mode in a timely manner to achieve intelligent adaptive switching. Then, the satellite search can continue based on the second satellite search mode, which can effectively reduce the satellite search failure rate and avoid users experiencing timeouts and prolonged periods of no response in the first satellite search mode, thus affecting the user's communication experience.

[0101] In some embodiments, when using a terminal device, a user may first download and install an application that supports satellite communication, such as a related satellite communication app.

[0102] Correspondingly, the terminal device can initialize configuration parameters through the application to automatically obtain the configuration parameters used for satellite search.

[0103] Specifically, the above configuration parameters may include one or more of the following: preset power threshold (which can be denoted as P0), update cycle (which can be denoted as T1), and preset satellite search duration (which can be denoted as T0).

[0104] Specifically, the aforementioned preset power threshold can be determined based on the satellite altitude of the satellites in the relevant satellite system (e.g., low-Earth orbit satellites in a low-Earth orbit satellite system). Based on this preset power threshold, it is possible to effectively ensure that subsequent communications based on the searched satellites have the required and stable communication quality.

[0105] The preset satellite search duration can be twice the period of the satellite's downlink broadcast signal. Based on this update period, it is possible to effectively and comprehensively determine whether there is a downlink broadcast signal at the corresponding frequency point, or whether the satellite corresponding to that frequency point covers the user's terminal equipment, thereby effectively improving the satellite search efficiency of the terminal equipment.

[0106] The aforementioned update cycle can be determined based on satellite operational status. This update cycle enables automatic and timely updates to the ephemeris information stored locally on the terminal device. Furthermore, the update cycle can also be determined by considering the user's historical activity range. For example, if the user's historical activity range is large, the update cycle can be set to a relatively short period. If the user's historical activity range is small, the update cycle can be set to a relatively long period, and so on.

[0107] Of course, it should be noted that the configuration parameters listed above are only illustrative. In actual implementation, depending on the specific application scenario and processing requirements, the above configuration parameters may also include other types of configuration parameters, such as a preset effective update duration threshold (which can be denoted as T1'), data validity duration, etc.

[0108] Specifically, before leaving the factory, the terminal device will have a number of preset downlink broadcast signal frequencies associated with the satellite system, as well as initial ephemeris information pre-installed.

[0109] After a user begins using the terminal device, the device can periodically update its local ephemeris information at intervals. Specifically, the terminal device can first detect whether there is terrestrial network coverage at its current location; if terrestrial network coverage is confirmed, it downloads and updates the latest ephemeris information based on the terrestrial network. Conversely, if terrestrial network coverage is not confirmed, the local ephemeris information can be updated by receiving and utilizing downlink broadcast signals from the connected satellites.

[0110] Furthermore, the terminal device can periodically check the validity of locally stored ephemeris information (or first historical connection information) based on the data validity period. If the interval between the most recent update time and the current time of a locally stored ephemeris piece (or first historical connection information) is greater than the data validity period, the ephemeris piece (or first historical connection information) can be determined to be invalid. An invalid tag can then be added to the ephemeris piece, or the ephemeris piece can be deleted from the terminal device.

[0111] In some embodiments, determining that the first triggering condition is met may include the following:

[0112] Detect whether the terminal device locally contains first historical connection information and / or ephemeris information;

[0113] If it is determined that the terminal device has first historical connection information and / or ephemeris information locally, the first triggering condition is met.

[0114] The aforementioned first historical connection information may include communication parameters from previous satellite connections.

[0115] Specifically, for example, the communication parameters for the historical satellite connections mentioned above may include the downlink broadcast signal frequency used during the last communication connection with the low-Earth orbit satellite. Furthermore, the communication parameters for the historical satellite connections may also include time-frequency offset information such as Doppler frequency offset and time delay associated with that downlink broadcast signal frequency used during the last communication connection with the low-Earth orbit satellite.

[0116] In practice, the first triggering condition can be determined by detecting whether there is valid first historical connection information and / or valid ephemeris information on the local terminal device.

[0117] In specific implementation, when it is determined that the terminal device has first historical connection information, or has ephemeris information, or has both first historical connection information and ephemeris information, the first triggering condition can be determined to be met, and then the device can automatically enter the first satellite search mode to search for satellites.

[0118] Conversely, if it is determined that there is no first historical connection information and no ephemeris information on the local terminal device, it can be determined that the second triggering condition is met, and then the device can automatically enter the second satellite search mode to search for satellites.

[0119] Based on the above embodiments, the terminal device can accurately and automatically determine the satellite search mode to be entered by detecting whether there is first historical connection information and / or ephemeris information.

[0120] In some embodiments, the method may further include: determining that a second triggering condition is met; and determining to use a second satellite search mode based on the satisfaction of the second triggering condition. The second satellite search mode is frequency-by-frequency scanning satellite search.

[0121] The aforementioned frequency-by-frequency satellite search can specifically be a frequency-by-frequency satellite search based on preset second information. The aforementioned second information can specifically be a preset downlink broadcast signal frequency.

[0122] In some embodiments, the satellite search assistance information may specifically include: first historical connection information; the first historical connection information includes: communication parameters when historically connecting to satellites.

[0123] The above-mentioned satellite search operation, based on the first satellite search mode, may include the following in its specific implementation:

[0124] S1: Based on the first historical connection information, obtain the corresponding historical downlink broadcast signal frequency points and time-frequency offset information;

[0125] S2: Perform a satellite search operation based on the historical downlink broadcast signal frequency and time-frequency offset information.

[0126] Specifically, the aforementioned time-frequency offset information may include Doppler frequency offset and time delay associated with the downlink broadcast signal frequency.

[0127] Based on the above embodiments, when the terminal device has at least a first historical connection information, the satellite search operation can be performed quickly and accurately by utilizing the first historical connection information.

[0128] In practice, the downlink broadcast signal frequency used during the last satellite connection can be queried and obtained based on the first historical connection information, or the matching broadcast signal frequency used during the last previous satellite connection can be used as the corresponding historical downlink broadcast signal frequency. Then, the satellite search operation is performed based on the historical downlink broadcast signal frequency and the Doppler frequency offset and time and frequency offset information associated with the historical downlink broadcast signal frequency.

[0129] In some embodiments, the satellite search assistance information includes ephemeris information.

[0130] The above-mentioned satellite search operation, based on the first satellite search mode, may include the following in its specific implementation:

[0131] S1: Based on ephemeris information, determine the target satellite that matches the current location information of the terminal device, as well as the target downlink broadcast signal frequency and time-frequency offset information of the target satellite;

[0132] S2: Perform a satellite search operation based on the target downlink broadcast signal frequency and time-frequency offset information.

[0133] Based on the above embodiments, when the terminal device has at least ephemeris information, the ephemeris information can be used to quickly and accurately perform satellite search operations.

[0134] In practice, the current location information can be obtained first; then, ephemeris information can be queried to determine the target satellite that matches the current location information; and the downlink broadcast signal frequency corresponding to the target satellite can be determined as the target downlink broadcast signal frequency that meets the requirements; then, based on the ephemeris information and the current location information, time and frequency offset information such as Doppler frequency offset and time delay associated with the target downlink broadcast signal frequency can be calculated; and the satellite search operation can be performed based on the target downlink broadcast signal frequency and the associated time and frequency offset information.

[0135] In practice, terminal devices can obtain their current location information through GPS positioning modules or BeiDou positioning modules.

[0136] In practice, based on the current location information, satellites covering the current location area of ​​the terminal device can be identified by querying ephemeris information, and these satellites can be used as matching satellites. Furthermore, based on the ephemeris information of these satellites, the corresponding planned spectrum can be determined; and based on the planned spectrum, the target downlink broadcast signal frequency points that meet the requirements can be determined.

[0137] In some embodiments, the satellite search assistance information includes: first historical connection information and ephemeris information.

[0138] See Figure 3 As shown, the above-mentioned satellite search operation, based on the first satellite search mode, can specifically include:

[0139] S1: If the difference between the last update time of the ephemeris information and the current time is not greater than the preset effective update duration threshold, perform a star search operation based on the ephemeris information;

[0140] S2: If the difference between the last update time of the ephemeris information and the current time is greater than the preset effective update duration threshold, perform a satellite search operation based on the first historical connection information.

[0141] Based on the above embodiments, when the terminal device has both first historical connection information and ephemeris information, different situations can be distinguished (which can be referred to as situation 1 and situation 2); for different situations, the corresponding sub-mode (which can be referred to as the first sub-mode and the second sub-mode) is used to complete the satellite search operation.

[0142] In practical implementation, for different sub-modes, corresponding first and second preset satellite search rules can be configured according to their different characteristics. The first preset satellite search rule can be a satellite search rule that primarily involves using first historical connection information to determine the downlink broadcast signal frequency, and the second preset satellite search rule can be a satellite search rule that primarily involves using ephemeris information to determine the downlink broadcast signal frequency.

[0143] Correspondingly, different satellite search rules can be adopted for different sub-modes in order to achieve satellite search operations more accurately and in a more targeted manner.

[0144] In practice, it can be determined whether the ephemeris information on the terminal device has not been updated for a long time by detecting whether the difference between the last update time of the ephemeris information and the current time is greater than the preset effective update duration threshold.

[0145] Based on the detection results, if the difference between the last update time and the current time of the ephemeris information is greater than the preset effective update duration threshold, it can be determined that the ephemeris information on the terminal device has not been updated for a long time, and thus the ephemeris information on the terminal device is unreliable, corresponding to situation 1. In this case, based on the first sub-mode, the matching first preset satellite search rule can be used as the satellite search rule; and according to this rule, the first historical connection information is mainly used to complete the satellite search operation.

[0146] Conversely, if the difference between the last update time and the current time of the ephemeris information is not greater than a preset effective update duration threshold, it can be determined that the ephemeris information on the terminal device has been updated within a short period of time, thus judging that the ephemeris information on the terminal device is reliable, corresponding to situation 2. In this case, based on the second sub-mode, the matching second preset satellite search rule can be used as the satellite search rule; and according to this rule, the ephemeris information is mainly used to complete the satellite search operation.

[0147] Based on the above embodiments, different situations can be precisely distinguished, and matching satellite search rules can be adopted based on different sub-modes to complete the satellite search operation more accurately.

[0148] In some embodiments, when a satellite search operation is performed based on the ephemeris information and the satellite search fails, the method may further include: re-performing the satellite search operation based on the first historical connection information.

[0149] In some embodiments, when a satellite search operation is performed based on the first historical connection information and the satellite search fails, the method may further include: re-performing the satellite search operation based on the ephemeris information.

[0150] In some embodiments, before determining that the first triggering condition is met, the method may further include: performing a satellite search operation based on the ephemeris information when the terminal device is powered on for the first time.

[0151] In practice, when a terminal device detects that it is powered on, it can determine whether it is the first time it is powered on by querying the local usage records of the terminal device.

[0152] In some embodiments, see Figure 4 As shown, based on the downlink broadcast signal frequency and time-frequency offset information, a satellite search operation is performed. In practice, this may include:

[0153] S1: Compensate the downlink broadcast signal frequency points based on Doppler frequency offset and time delay to obtain the compensated broadcast signal frequency points;

[0154] S2: Based on the compensated broadcast signal frequency, search for and receive the corresponding downlink broadcast signal;

[0155] S3: Demodulate downlink broadcast signals to obtain target access information;

[0156] S4: Update the local ephemeris information based on the target access information.

[0157] Specifically, the aforementioned target access information may include at least one of the following: ephemeris information, beam information, frequency plan, etc.

[0158] In practice, in addition to updating the local ephemeris information based on the target access information, other information such as local frequency plans and beam information can also be updated based on the target access information.

[0159] In practice, after updating the local ephemeris information based on the target access information, the terminal device can generate a corresponding access request and send the access request to the satellite to apply for access to the corresponding satellite. After successfully accessing the satellite, it can communicate with the user by responding to the accessed satellite.

[0160] In some embodiments, the above-described satellite search operation may specifically include: searching for a corresponding downlink broadcast signal and monitoring the signal power value of the downlink broadcast signal.

[0161] In some embodiments, see Figure 5 As shown, in specific implementations, the method may also include the following:

[0162] S1: During the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode, determine whether the mode switching trigger condition is met;

[0163] S2: Based on the satisfaction of the mode switching trigger condition, determine to use the second satellite search mode;

[0164] S3: Perform a satellite search operation based on the second satellite search mode.

[0165] Based on the above embodiments, during the satellite search operation performed based on the first satellite search mode, it is also possible to automatically detect whether the mode switching trigger condition is met; and when the mode switching trigger condition is met, it can switch from the first satellite search mode to the second satellite search mode in a timely manner to successfully complete the satellite search.

[0166] In some embodiments, the mode switching triggering conditions may specifically include: the search duration is greater than a preset satellite search duration, and / or the signal power value of the searched downlink broadcast signal is not greater than a preset power threshold value.

[0167] Specifically, the search duration mentioned above can be understood as the duration for searching the corresponding downlink broadcast signal.

[0168] In practice, when searching for the corresponding downlink broadcast signal based on the compensated broadcast signal frequency, the timer starts; and it checks whether the corresponding downlink broadcast signal is found within the preset satellite search duration; if it is determined that the downlink broadcast signal is found within the preset satellite search duration, it is determined that the search duration is not greater than the preset satellite search duration, that is, the mode switching trigger condition is not met.

[0169] At this point, the corresponding downlink broadcast signal can continue to be received, and the signal power value of the downlink broadcast signal can be monitored.

[0170] If the signal power value of the downlink broadcast signal is determined to be greater than the preset power threshold, it is determined that the mode switching trigger condition has not been met.

[0171] Conversely, if no downlink broadcast signal is found within the preset satellite search duration, the search duration is determined to be longer than the preset satellite search duration, thus satisfying the mode switching trigger condition.

[0172] If the signal power value of the downlink broadcast signal is determined to be no greater than the preset power threshold, the mode switching trigger condition is determined to be met.

[0173] In practice, during the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode, the validity of the currently selected first satellite search mode can be determined by checking whether the mode switching trigger condition is met, and whether the satellite search operation can be successfully completed based on this first satellite search mode. If it is determined that the mode switching trigger condition is not met, the first satellite search mode can be considered valid. Then, the satellite search operation can continue based on this first satellite search mode to successfully complete the satellite search.

[0174] Conversely, when the mode switching trigger condition is met, it can be determined that the first satellite search mode has failed. If satellite search operations continue based on the first satellite search mode, it may ultimately fail to complete the satellite search, or the user may have to wait too long, affecting the user's communication experience. Therefore, the second satellite search mode can be promptly initiated and switched to to ensure that the satellite search is completed efficiently and successfully.

[0175] Based on the above embodiments, during the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode, the validity of the first satellite search mode can be judged online by detecting whether the mode switching trigger condition is met, so as to ensure that the satellite search can be completed efficiently and successfully.

[0176] Specifically, for example, the terminal device can be equipped with a timer that starts timing when searching for the corresponding downlink broadcast signal based on the compensated broadcast signal frequency, denoted as t (i.e., search duration); and monitors whether a downlink broadcast signal is found if the search duration is not greater than a preset satellite search duration (T0). If so, it can be determined that the mode switching trigger condition has not been met. Conversely, if it is detected that the search duration has exceeded the preset satellite search duration and a downlink broadcast signal is still not found, it can be determined that the mode switching trigger condition has been met.

[0177] For example, when a terminal device receives a downlink broadcast signal, it measures the signal power of the downlink broadcast signal to obtain its signal power value; and monitors whether the signal power value of the downlink broadcast signal is greater than a preset power threshold (P0). If it is, it can be determined that the mode switching trigger condition has not been met. Conversely, if the signal power value of the downlink broadcast signal is not greater than the preset power threshold, it can be determined that the mode switching trigger condition has been met.

[0178] In some cases, once the mode switching triggering conditions have been determined based on the search duration, it is no longer necessary to monitor the signal power value of the downlink broadcast signal, and the second satellite search mode can be directly started and switched.

[0179] In some embodiments, see Figure 6 As shown, the above-mentioned satellite search operation, based on the second satellite search mode, may include the following in its specific implementation:

[0180] S1: Search for relevant downlink broadcast signals based on preset downlink broadcast signal frequencies;

[0181] S2: Obtain target access information based on the signal power value of the relevant downlink broadcast signal.

[0182] In practice, the relevant downlink broadcast signals can be searched first based on the preset downlink broadcast signal frequency points; then the satellite coverage type can be determined based on the signal power value of the relevant downlink broadcast signals; and according to the satellite coverage type, different satellite coverage types can be distinguished and the corresponding methods can be used to obtain the target access information.

[0183] The satellite coverage type includes one of the following: multi-satellite coverage, single-satellite coverage, and no-satellite coverage.

[0184] In specific implementation, the satellite coverage type determined based on the signal power value of the relevant downlink broadcast signal may include the following: when the signal power value of one relevant downlink broadcast signal is greater than a preset power threshold, the satellite coverage type is single-satellite coverage; when the signal power values ​​of at least two relevant downlink broadcast signals are greater than the preset power threshold, the satellite coverage type is multi-satellite coverage; when the signal power value of no relevant downlink broadcast signal is greater than the preset power threshold, the satellite coverage type is no-satellite coverage.

[0185] Based on the above embodiments, during the satellite search operation based on the second satellite search mode, different satellite coverage types can be precisely distinguished; and differentiated data processing can be performed for different satellite coverage types to carry out corresponding satellite search operations accurately and in a targeted manner.

[0186] In practical implementation, when the satellite coverage type is multi-satellite coverage, obtaining target access information may include: identifying the downlink broadcast signal with the highest signal power value among multiple related downlink broadcast signals as the target downlink broadcast signal. Then, the target downlink broadcast signal can be demodulated to obtain target access information. Finally, local related information can be updated based on the target access information.

[0187] In specific implementation, when the satellite coverage type is no satellite coverage, obtaining target access information may include: re-performing the satellite search operation based on the second satellite search mode to obtain target access information.

[0188] In specific implementation, when the satellite coverage type is single-satellite coverage, obtaining target access information may include: identifying relevant downlink broadcast signals with signal power values ​​greater than a preset power threshold as target downlink broadcast signals. Then, the target downlink broadcast signals can be demodulated to obtain target access information. Subsequently, local related information can be updated based on the target access information.

[0189] In practice, when the determined target downlink broadcast signal includes multiple target downlink broadcast signals, multiple target downlink broadcast signals can be demodulated simultaneously to obtain corresponding target access information. Then, based on the multiple target access information and the current location information, the service time of the satellite beam corresponding to each target access information is calculated. Based on the service time, the target access information with the longest service time is selected, and the local communication system information is updated according to the target access information to access the low-orbit satellite pointed to by the target access information.

[0190] In some embodiments, a satellite search operation is performed based on the second satellite search mode. Specifically, this may include:

[0191] Search for relevant downlink broadcast signals in parallel mode; or search for relevant downlink broadcast signals in serial mode.

[0192] Specifically, the terminal device can have two different architectures: a serial pipelined implementation architecture and a parallel implementation architecture, or one of the two architectures. The terminal device can store multiple preset downlink broadcast signal frequencies.

[0193] When searching for relevant downlink broadcast signals, a serial pipelined architecture can be used. This allows for serial processing via the FPGA's drainage mode, enabling the sequential searching of multiple relevant downlink broadcast signals corresponding to multiple preset downlink broadcast signal frequencies. This effectively saves computing resources on the terminal device and accurately completes the search for relevant downlink broadcast signals.

[0194] When searching for relevant downlink broadcast signals, a parallel implementation architecture can be used, leveraging the FPGA's parallel processing mode, to perform parallel processing. This allows multiple relevant downlink broadcast signals corresponding to multiple preset downlink broadcast signal frequencies to be searched simultaneously. This effectively shortens the search time and efficiently completes the search for relevant downlink broadcast signals.

[0195] In practice, the search for relevant downlink broadcast signals can be completed by determining the matching mode from parallel mode and serial mode based on the user's needs and / or the overall processing time.

[0196] In some embodiments, a serial pipelined architecture is implemented to search for relevant downlink broadcast signals in a serial mode, which may specifically include the following:

[0197] S1: Perform initialization operations, specifically setting the initial frequency point (e.g., f0) for the terminal device to receive downlink broadcast signals, and the frequency range of the receiving end bandpass filter (e.g., 4 preset downlink broadcast signal frequency points); and set the ADC sampling rate according to the bandpass sampling rules to support simultaneous sampling of multiple related downlink broadcast signals;

[0198] S2: Perform data transmission operation, specifically transmitting the intermediate frequency data sampled by the ADC to the FPGA through the JESD 204b interface; where JESD 204b is the interface between the ADC module and the FPGA, mainly used to realize high-frequency data transmission between the ADC and the FPGA, theoretically supporting a maximum rate of 160Gbps, which meets the transmission rate required by the ADC sampling rate;

[0199] S3: Perform frequency shifting operation. Specifically, first, subtract the initial frequency from each of the multiple preset downlink broadcast signal frequency points to obtain multiple processed downlink broadcast signal frequency points (e.g., f1, f2, f3, f4); then, use the FPGA to shift the data transmitted by the ADC according to the multiple processed downlink broadcast signal frequency points to obtain the zero-frequency signals of the corresponding multiple downlink broadcast signals.

[0200] S4: Perform serial processing operations, specifically using the FPGA to serially process the zero-frequency signals of multiple downlink broadcast signals in a drainage mode to obtain the corresponding multiple related downlink broadcast signals.

[0201] When performing parallel processing operations in parallel mode, the FPGA can be used to process the zero-frequency signals of multiple downlink broadcast signals in parallel to obtain the corresponding multiple related downlink broadcast signals.

[0202] Based on the above embodiments, and based on the second satellite search mode, different situations can be distinguished, and the search for relevant downlink broadcast signals corresponding to multiple preset downlink broadcast signal frequency points can be completed in an appropriate manner.

[0203] In some embodiments, the method may further include the following: if satellite acquisition is successful, demodulating the corresponding downlink broadcast signal and updating the local ephemeris information.

[0204] In practice, for example, the target access information can be obtained by demodulating the corresponding downlink broadcast signal; then, the local ephemeris information can be updated based on the target access information.

[0205] As can be seen from the above, the satellite search method provided in this specification, when the terminal device is powered on, first determines that a first trigger condition is met. If the first trigger condition is met, a first satellite search mode with higher efficiency and reliability can be prioritized. This first satellite search mode uses first information related to the first trigger condition for satellite search. Based on the first satellite search model, the satellite search operation is specifically executed. This enables the efficient and accurate search for and access to qualified satellites, effectively improving the efficiency of satellite search and network access for the terminal device, reducing the satellite search failure rate, shortening the user's waiting time, and thus providing the user with a better communication experience.

[0206] This manual also provides another satellite acquisition method for use with terminal devices, including:

[0207] S1: During the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode, it is determined that the mode switching trigger condition is met;

[0208] S2: Based on the satisfaction of the mode switching trigger condition, determine to use the second satellite search mode;

[0209] S3: Perform a satellite search operation based on the second satellite search mode.

[0210] Based on the above embodiments, during the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode, when the mode switching trigger condition is detected, the satellite search operation can be adaptively switched to the second satellite search mode to improve the satellite search success rate.

[0211] This specification provides an embodiment of a terminal device, see below. Figure 7 As shown. The terminal device includes a network communication port 701, a processor 702, and a memory 703. These structures are connected by internal cables so that they can perform specific data interaction.

[0212] Specifically, the network communication port 701 can be used to receive trigger commands.

[0213] The processor 702 can be specifically used to respond to a trigger command, determine that a first trigger condition is met, determine to use a first satellite search mode based on the first trigger condition, use first information related to the first trigger condition to search for satellites in the first satellite search mode, and perform a satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode.

[0214] The memory 703 can be used to store the corresponding instruction program and related data involved in the satellite search process.

[0215] Based on the above method, the relevant structural performance of the terminal equipment can be effectively utilized to improve the data processing speed of electronic equipment and efficiently realize the data processing of low-orbit satellite search.

[0216] In this embodiment, the network communication port 701 can be a virtual port bound to different communication protocols, thereby enabling the sending or receiving of different data. For example, the network communication port can be a port responsible for web data communication, a port responsible for FTP data communication, or a port responsible for email data communication. Furthermore, the network communication port can also be a physical communication interface or communication chip. For example, it can be a wireless mobile network communication chip, such as GSM or CDMA; it can also be a Wi-Fi chip; or it can be a Bluetooth chip.

[0217] In this embodiment, the processor 702 can be implemented in any suitable manner. For example, the processor can take the form of a microprocessor or processor and a computer-readable medium storing computer-readable program code (e.g., software or firmware) executable by the (micro)processor, logic gates, switches, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic controllers, and embedded microcontrollers, etc. This specification is not limiting.

[0218] In this embodiment, the memory 703 may include multiple layers. In a digital system, anything that can store binary data can be a memory. In an integrated circuit, a circuit with storage function but no physical form is also called a memory, such as RAM, FIFO, etc. In a system, a storage device with a physical form is also called a memory, such as a memory stick, TF card, etc.

[0219] This specification also provides a computer-readable storage medium based on the above-described satellite search method. The computer-readable storage medium stores computer program instructions that, when executed, perform the following: determining that a first triggering condition is met; determining to use a first satellite search mode based on the met first triggering condition; using first information related to the first triggering condition to search for satellites in the first satellite search mode; and performing a satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode.

[0220] This specification also provides another computer-readable storage medium based on the above-described satellite search method. The computer-readable storage medium stores computer program instructions that, when executed, implement the following: during the satellite search operation based on a first satellite search mode, determining that a mode switching trigger condition is met; based on meeting the mode switching trigger condition, determining to use a second satellite search mode; and performing a satellite search operation based on the second satellite search mode.

[0221] In this embodiment, the storage medium includes, but is not limited to, Random Access Memory (RAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), cache, hard disk drive (HDD), or memory card. The memory can be used to store computer program instructions. The network communication unit can be an interface configured according to standards specified in the communication protocol for network connection communication.

[0222] In this embodiment, the specific functions and effects implemented by the program instructions stored in the computer-readable storage medium can be explained in comparison with other embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0223] This specification also provides a computer program product, which includes at least a computer program. When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the following method steps: determining that a first triggering condition is met; determining to use a first satellite search mode based on the first triggering condition; using first information related to the first triggering condition to search for satellites in the first satellite search mode; and performing a satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode.

[0224] See Figure 8 As shown in the embodiments of this specification, a satellite search device is also provided, which may specifically include the following structural modules:

[0225] The first determining module 801 can be used to determine whether the first triggering condition is met.

[0226] The second determining module 802 can be specifically used to determine the use of a first satellite search mode based on the satisfaction of the first triggering condition; the first satellite search mode uses first information related to the first triggering condition for satellite search;

[0227] The execution module 803 can be used to perform a satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode.

[0228] In some embodiments, when the device is specifically implemented, it may also determine that a second triggering condition is met; based on the satisfaction of the second triggering condition, it may determine to use a second satellite search mode.

[0229] In some embodiments, the second satellite search mode may specifically be frequency-by-frequency scanning satellite search.

[0230] In some embodiments, the first triggering condition may specifically include: the terminal device stores satellite search assistance information.

[0231] In some embodiments, the satellite search assistance information may specifically include: first historical connection information; the first historical connection information includes: communication parameters when historically connecting to satellites.

[0232] In some embodiments, when the execution module 803 is specifically implemented, it can perform a satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode in the following manner: based on the first historical connection information, obtain the corresponding historical downlink broadcast signal frequency point and time-frequency offset information; and perform a satellite search operation according to the historical downlink broadcast signal frequency point and time-frequency offset information.

[0233] In some embodiments, the satellite search assistance information may specifically include: ephemeris information.

[0234] In some embodiments, when the execution module 803 is specifically implemented, it can perform a satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode in the following manner: based on ephemeris information, determine the target satellite that matches the current location information of the terminal device, as well as the target downlink broadcast signal frequency and time-frequency offset information of the target satellite; and perform a satellite search operation according to the target downlink broadcast signal frequency and time-frequency offset information.

[0235] In some embodiments, the satellite search assistance information may specifically include: first historical connection information and ephemeris information.

[0236] In some embodiments, when the execution module 803 is specifically implemented, it can perform a satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode in the following manner: if the difference between the last update time of the ephemeris information and the current time is not greater than a preset effective update duration threshold, a satellite search operation is performed based on the ephemeris information; if the difference between the last update time of the ephemeris information and the current time is greater than a preset effective update duration threshold, a satellite search operation is performed based on the first historical connection information.

[0237] In some embodiments, before determining that the first triggering condition is met, the execution module 803 may also perform a satellite search operation based on the ephemeris information when the terminal device is powered on for the first time.

[0238] In some embodiments, when the execution module 803 is specifically implemented, if the satellite search operation is performed based on the ephemeris information and the satellite search fails, it can also be used to: re-execute the satellite search operation based on the first historical connection information.

[0239] In some embodiments, when the execution module 803 is specifically implemented, if the satellite search operation is performed based on the first historical connection information and the satellite search fails, it can also be used to: re-execute the satellite search operation based on the ephemeris information.

[0240] In some embodiments, when the execution module 803 is specifically implemented, it can perform the satellite search operation in the following manner: search for the corresponding downlink broadcast signal and monitor the signal power value of the downlink broadcast signal.

[0241] In some embodiments, the device may also be used to: determine whether a mode switching trigger condition is met during the process of performing a satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode; determine to use a second satellite search mode based on the met mode switching trigger condition; and perform a satellite search operation based on the second satellite search mode.

[0242] In some embodiments, the mode switching triggering conditions may specifically include: the search duration is greater than a preset satellite search duration, and / or the signal power value of the searched downlink broadcast signal is not greater than a preset power threshold value.

[0243] In some embodiments, when the execution module 803 is specifically implemented, it can perform a satellite search operation based on the second satellite search mode in the following manner: search for relevant downlink broadcast signals based on preset downlink broadcast signal frequency points; and obtain target access information based on the signal power value of the relevant downlink broadcast signals.

[0244] In some embodiments, when the execution module 803 is specifically implemented, it can perform satellite search operations based on the second satellite search mode in the following ways: searching for relevant downlink broadcast signals in parallel mode; or searching for relevant downlink broadcast signals in serial mode.

[0245] In some embodiments, the device can also be used to: demodulate the corresponding downlink broadcast signal and update the local ephemeris information when satellite acquisition is successful.

[0246] This manual also provides another satellite search device, which may include:

[0247] The determination module can be specifically used to determine whether the mode switching trigger conditions are met during the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode.

[0248] The switching module can be specifically used to determine the use of the second satellite search mode based on the satisfaction of the mode switching trigger condition;

[0249] The execution module can be used to perform satellite search operations based on the second satellite search mode.

[0250] It should be noted that the units, devices, or modules described in the above embodiments can be implemented by computer chips or physical entities, or by products with certain functions. For ease of description, the above devices are described by dividing them into various modules according to their functions. Of course, in implementing this specification, the functions of each module can be implemented in one or more software and / or hardware, or the module that implements the same function can be implemented by a combination of multiple sub-modules or sub-units, etc. The device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For example, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and there may be other division methods in actual implementation. For example, multiple units or components can be combined or integrated into another system, or some features can be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection between the devices or units shown or discussed can be through some interfaces, and the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units can be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0251] As can be seen from the above, the satellite search device provided in the embodiments of this specification can search for and access satellites that meet the requirements more efficiently and accurately, improve the efficiency of terminal devices in satellite search and network access, reduce the satellite search failure rate, shorten the user's waiting time, and enable users to obtain a better communication experience.

[0252] In a specific scenario example, the satellite search method provided in this manual can be used to enable a mobile phone to directly connect to low-Earth orbit satellites and quickly search for satellites upon startup. For detailed implementation procedures, please refer to [the manual / document / reference needed]. Figure 9 As shown, it includes the following content.

[0253] In this scenario example, a fast satellite search strategy is proposed to address the issues of multiple overlapping satellite and beam coverage (e.g., multi-satellite coverage) or single coverage (e.g., single-satellite coverage). This strategy mainly includes modules such as preset constellation broadcast frequencies (e.g., preset downlink broadcast signal frequencies), a hot start mode (e.g., the first satellite search mode), a cold start mode (e.g., the second satellite search mode), hot / cold adaptive switching (e.g., mode switching), and ephemeris periodic updates. The hot / cold adaptive switching enables adaptive switching between hot and cold start modes for satellite search. Specifically, the hot start mode is divided into two sub-modes (e.g., the first sub-mode and the second sub-mode) to determine the downlink broadcast signal frequency of the satellite to be received, and then quickly completes the satellite search based on the determined broadcast signal frequency. The cold start mode can read the four preset downlink broadcast frequencies of the constellation (e.g., multiple preset downlink broadcast signal frequencies) and use a "blind search mode" (divided into parallel processing and pipelined serial processing) to search for each of the four broadcast signal frequencies. This not only effectively identifies single-satellite or multi-satellite coverage but also ensures that the mobile terminal completes the satellite search. In addition, when there is terrestrial network coverage, the ephemeris information is automatically updated according to the set cycle; when there is no terrestrial network, the ephemeris is updated by receiving broadcast information. In this way, it can effectively complete the rapid satellite search of mobile terminals in the case of multiple overlapping satellite and beam coverage or single coverage under large-scale constellations, thereby ensuring the application scenarios of direct connection of smartphone terminals to low-Earth orbit satellite services.

[0254] For specific implementation details, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 9 As shown, it includes the following steps.

[0255] Step S1: The mobile terminal user first downloads the mobile-specific APP for the selected system of this mobile phone, downloads the low-orbit satellite ephemeris information of the current version number to the local device, and saves it;

[0256] Step S2: Initialization. Set the power discrimination threshold value of the mobile terminal (e.g., the preset power threshold value) as P0, the satellite search time (e.g., the preset satellite search duration) as T0, and the ephemeris information automatic update period as T1. Additionally, when the mobile terminal user is in an area covered by the ground network, the ephemeris information of the low-earth orbit satellite can be automatically updated according to the set period T1. Furthermore, four downlink broadcast signal frequency points f1’, f2’, f3’, f4’ of the large-scale constellation are preset in advance.

[0257] Step S3: After the mobile terminal user opens the APP, first determine whether the mobile terminal itself has the information (e.g., broadcast frequency point) or ephemeris information stored after the previous communication. If there is prior information (e.g., the first historical connection information) or ephemeris information, start the hot start mode and execute Step S4. If there is no prior information or ephemeris information, start the cold start mode and execute Step S10.

[0258] In the case of the hot start mode, after the mobile terminal is powered on, it is divided into two modes. Mode 1 is based on the information (e.g., broadcast frequency point) stored after the previous communication to determine the broadcast signal frequency point, and use the previous Doppler frequency offset and time delay. Mode 2 is based on downloading the ephemeris from the ground network coverage area after power-on or the factory-built-in ephemeris. First, the GPS / Beidou installed in the mobile terminal obtains its own position information. Then, according to the stored previous updated ephemeris information, determine which satellite covers at this time, and thus find the corresponding broadcast signal frequency point according to the planned spectrum, and calculate the Doppler frequency offset and time delay of this frequency point based on the ephemeris and the position of the mobile terminal. After the frequency point is determined, then quickly complete satellite search after compensating for the time delay and frequency offset based on the determined frequency point. Specifically, in the case where the ephemeris stored in the mobile terminal has not been updated for a long time, Mode 1 is adopted; if it is the first time to power on and use, Mode 2 is adopted.

[0259] The user faces the mobile terminal towards the sky in an open area, starts satellite search, and at the same time starts the timer t (e.g., the search duration). According to the frequency point provided in Step 4, and calculate the Doppler frequency offset of this frequency point for frequency offset compensation according to the ephemeris and the position of the mobile terminal. Then, start receiving the downlink broadcast signal at the compensated frequency point, and at the same time perform power measurement to obtain the power measurement value P (e.g., the signal power value).

[0260] Judge whether t exceeds the specified satellite search time T0. If t < T0, execute Step S7; otherwise, start the cold start mode, execute Step S10, and at the same time clear the timer t.

[0261] Step S7: Determine whether the measured power value P exceeds the power discrimination threshold P0. If P ≥ P0, the satellite search is successful, and the downlink broadcast signal is demodulated to obtain system information such as ephemeris, beam, and frequency plan, and then execute Step S10; if P < P0, start the cold start mode and execute Step S8;

[0262] Step S8: The terminal enters the cold start mode and adopts the "blind search mode" (divided into parallel processing and pipelined serial processing) for the existing 4 broadcast signal frequency points, respectively search for the broadcast signals on the 4 frequency points, and measure the power of the signals on the 4 frequency points;

[0263] Step S9: Determine whether the power measurement values of the 4 frequency points exceed the power discrimination threshold P0. If only 1 exceeds the threshold P0, it is a single satellite coverage situation, demodulate its downlink broadcast signal, obtain system information such as ephemeris, beam, and frequency plan, and execute Step S10; if at least 2 exceed the threshold P0, it is a multi-satellite coverage situation, find the broadcast signal with the strongest signal power intensity, and demodulate it to obtain system information such as ephemeris, beam, and frequency plan, and execute Step S10; if none exceeds the threshold P0, continue the cold start mode and execute Step S8;

[0264] Step S10: According to the satellite information obtained by demodulation, then update the system information such as ephemeris, beam, and frequency plan stored in the mobile terminal.

[0265] Specifically, the above satellite search time T0 can be set to 2 times the period of the downlink broadcast signal, so as to effectively ensure whether there is a downlink broadcast signal on the searched frequency point within the time T0, or whether the satellite where the frequency point is located covers the mobile terminal user at this time, which can effectively improve the satellite search efficiency of the mobile terminal.

[0266] Specifically, there are two mobile receiver implementation architectures in the above "blind search mode", including a serial pipeline implementation architecture and a parallel implementation architecture. Among them, the serial pipeline implementation architecture mainly performs serial processing through the FPGA pipelining mode, so that the downlink broadcast signals of 4 frequency points can share the same module. The advantage is to save resources, and the disadvantage is that the processing time is long; the parallel implementation architecture mainly performs parallel processing through the FPGA parallel processing mode, so that the downlink broadcast signals of 4 frequency points can be processed simultaneously. The advantage is to save time, and the disadvantage is to increase resources.

[0267] Among them, the serial pipeline implementation architecture may include the following steps:

[0268] Step S1: Initialize, set the frequency point of the mobile terminal receiving the signal as f0, the frequency range of the receiving end band-pass filter includes 4 downlink broadcast signal frequency points, and set the ADC sampling rate according to the band-pass sampling theorem to support simultaneous sampling of 4 downlink broadcast signals;

[0269] Step S2: The intermediate frequency data sampled by the ADC is transmitted to the FPGA via the JESD 204b interface; where JESD 204b is the interface between the ADC module and the FPGA, mainly used to realize high-frequency data transmission between the ADC and the FPGA, and theoretically can support a maximum rate of 160Gbps, which meets the transmission rate required by the ADC sampling rate.

[0270] Step S3: First, subtract f0 from the four downlink broadcast signal frequencies to obtain f1, f2, f3, and f4 respectively; then, the FPGA shifts the digital signals transmitted by the ADC according to f1, f2, f3, and f4 respectively to obtain the zero-frequency signals of the four downlink broadcast signals.

[0271] Step S4: The FPGA serially processes the zero-frequency signals of the four downlink broadcast signals in a drainage mode.

[0272] The parallel implementation architecture differs from the serial pipeline implementation architecture in that the FPGA processes the zero-frequency signals of the four downlink broadcast signals in parallel.

[0273] The above scenario examples verify that the satellite search method provided in this manual can indeed effectively complete the rapid satellite search of mobile terminals under the conditions of multiple overlapping or single coverage of satellites and beams in a large-scale constellation, thus making it well applicable to application scenarios where smartphone terminals directly connect to low-Earth orbit satellite services.

[0274] While this specification provides the steps of operation for the methods described in the embodiments or flowcharts, more or fewer steps may be included based on conventional or non-inventive means. The order of steps listed in the embodiments is merely one possible order of execution among many steps and does not represent the only possible order. In actual device or client product execution, the methods shown in the embodiments or drawings may be executed sequentially or in parallel (e.g., in a parallel processor or multi-threaded processing environment, or even a distributed data processing environment). The terms "comprising," "including," or any other variations thereof are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, product, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements not expressly listed, or elements inherent to such a process, method, product, or apparatus. Without further limitations, the presence of other identical or equivalent elements in a process, method, product, or apparatus that includes said elements is not excluded. The terms "first," "second," etc., are used to denote names and do not indicate any particular order.

[0275] Those skilled in the art will also know that, besides implementing the controller using purely computer-readable program code, the same functions can be achieved by logically programming the method steps, making the controller function as logic gates, switches, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and embedded microcontrollers. Therefore, such a controller can be considered a hardware component, and the devices within it used to implement various functions can also be considered structures within that hardware component. Alternatively, the devices used to implement various functions can be considered as both software modules implementing the method and structures within a hardware component.

[0276] This specification can be described in the general context of computer-executable instructions that are executed by a computer, such as program modules. Generally, program modules include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, classes, etc., that perform a specific task or implement a specific abstract data type. This specification can also be practiced in distributed computing environments, where tasks are performed by remote processing devices connected via a communication network. In distributed computing environments, program modules can reside in local and remote computer-readable storage media, including storage devices.

[0277] As can be seen from the above description of the embodiments, those skilled in the art can clearly understand that this specification can be implemented by means of software plus necessary general-purpose hardware platforms. Based on this understanding, the technical solutions of this specification can essentially be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product can be stored in a storage medium, such as ROM / RAM, magnetic disk, optical disk, etc., and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, mobile terminal, server, or network device, etc.) to execute the methods described in the various embodiments or some parts of the embodiments of this specification.

[0278] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. Each embodiment focuses on its differences from other embodiments. This specification can be used in numerous general-purpose or special-purpose computer system environments or configurations. Examples include: personal computers, server computers, handheld or portable devices, tablet devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based systems, set-top boxes, programmable electronic devices, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and distributed computing environments including any of the above systems or devices, etc.

[0279] Although this specification has been described by way of examples, those skilled in the art will recognize that many variations and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of this specification, and it is intended that the appended claims cover such variations and modifications without departing from the spirit of this specification.

Claims

1. A satellite search method, characterized in that, Applied to terminal devices, including: The first triggering condition has been met; Based on the fulfillment of the first triggering condition, it is determined that the first satellite search mode will be used; the first satellite search mode uses first information related to the first triggering condition for satellite search. Based on the first satellite search mode, perform a satellite search operation.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The method further includes: determining that a second triggering condition is met; and determining to use a second satellite search mode based on the satisfaction of the second triggering condition.

3. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, The second satellite search mode is frequency-by-frequency scanning satellite search.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first triggering condition includes: the terminal device stores satellite search assistance information.

5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The satellite search assistance information includes: first historical connection information; the first historical connection information includes: communication parameters when connecting to satellites in the past.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, Based on the first satellite search mode, perform satellite search operations, including: Based on the first historical connection information, obtain the corresponding historical downlink broadcast signal frequency points and time-frequency offset information; Based on the historical downlink broadcast signal frequency points and time-frequency offset information, a satellite search operation is performed.

7. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The satellite search assistance information includes: ephemeris information.

8. The method according to claim 7, characterized in that, Based on the first satellite search mode, perform satellite search operations, including: Based on ephemeris information, the target satellite that matches the current location information of the terminal device is identified, as well as the target downlink broadcast signal frequency and time-frequency offset information of the target satellite; Based on the target downlink broadcast signal frequency and time-frequency offset information, a satellite search operation is performed.

9. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The satellite search assistance information includes: first historical connection information and ephemeris information.

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that, Based on the first satellite search mode, perform satellite search operations, including: If the difference between the last update time and the current time of the ephemeris information is not greater than a preset effective update duration threshold, a star search operation is performed based on the ephemeris information. If the difference between the last update time of the ephemeris information and the current time is greater than a preset effective update duration threshold, a satellite search operation is performed based on the first historical connection information.

11. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Before determining that the first triggering condition is met, the method further includes: When the terminal device is powered on for the first time, a satellite search operation is performed based on ephemeris information.

12. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, If a satellite search operation is performed based on the ephemeris information, and the satellite search fails, the method further includes: Based on the first historical connection information, the satellite search operation is re-executed.

13. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, If a satellite search operation is performed based on the first historical connection information, and the satellite search fails, the method further includes: Based on the ephemeris information, the star search operation is re-executed.

14. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Performing a satellite search operation includes: Search for the corresponding downlink broadcast signal and monitor the signal power value of the downlink broadcast signal.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The method further includes: During the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode, it is determined whether the mode switching trigger condition is met. Based on the fulfillment of the aforementioned mode switching triggering conditions, it is determined that the second satellite search mode will be used; Based on the second satellite search mode, a satellite search operation is performed.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The mode switching trigger conditions include: the search duration is greater than the preset satellite search duration, and / or the signal power value of the searched downlink broadcast signal is not greater than the preset power threshold value.

17. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, Based on the second satellite search mode, perform satellite search operations, including: Search for relevant downlink broadcast signals based on preset downlink broadcast signal frequencies; Target access information is obtained based on the signal power value of the relevant downlink broadcast signal.

18. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, Based on the second satellite search mode, perform satellite search operations, including: Search for relevant downlink broadcast signals in parallel mode; or search for relevant downlink broadcast signals in serial mode.

19. The method according to claim 1 or 15, characterized in that, The method further includes: If satellite acquisition is successful, demodulate the corresponding downlink broadcast signal and update the local ephemeris information.

20. A satellite search method, characterized in that, Applied to terminal devices, including: During the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode, it is determined that the mode switching trigger condition is met. Based on the fulfillment of the aforementioned mode switching triggering conditions, it is determined that the second satellite search mode will be used; Based on the second satellite search mode, a satellite search operation is performed.

21. A satellite search device, characterized in that, include: The first determining module is used to determine whether the first triggering condition is met; The second determining module is used to determine whether to use the first satellite search mode based on the satisfaction of the first triggering condition; The first satellite search mode uses first information related to the first triggering condition to search for satellites; The execution module is used to perform satellite search operations based on the first satellite search mode.

22. A satellite search device, characterized in that, include: The determination module is used to determine whether the mode switching trigger condition is met during the satellite search operation based on the first satellite search mode. The switching module is used to determine the use of the second satellite search mode based on the satisfaction of the mode switching trigger condition; The execution module is used to perform satellite search operations based on the second satellite search mode.

23. A terminal device, characterized in that, It includes a processor and a memory for storing processor-executable instructions, wherein the processor, when executing the instructions, implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

24. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, It stores computer instructions that, when executed by a processor, implement the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1 to 20.

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