A method of satellite communication and electronic device

Abstract

The application provides a satellite communication method and an electronic device. The method comprises: displaying a first interface, wherein the first interface comprises a satellite representation of a first target satellite, and a display position of the satellite representation on the first interface is associated with a remaining service time of the first target satellite; updating the display position of the satellite representation in response to a change in the posture of the electronic device; and establishing a communication connection with the first target satellite when the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than a first time threshold. Through the method, the user is guided to align the satellite based on the remaining service time of the satellite, the communication between the electronic device and the LEO satellite can be realized, and the communication between the electronic device and the satellite is ensured not to be interrupted in a short time, so that the user obtains a good user experience.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic devices, and more specifically, to a method of satellite communication and an electronic device. Background Technology

[0002] With technological advancements, an increasing number of electronic devices are equipped with satellite communication capabilities. In scenarios where electronic devices communicate with low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, the relative positions of the two devices are constantly changing due to the continuous motion of LEO satellites. Therefore, establishing or maintaining a communication connection between the electronic device and the LEO satellite is a pressing issue that needs to be addressed. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This application provides a satellite communication method and an electronic device capable of establishing or maintaining a communication connection between the electronic device and a LEO satellite.

[0004] In a first aspect, a method for satellite communication is provided, the method comprising: displaying a first interface, the first interface including a satellite representation of a first target satellite, the display position of the satellite representation on the first interface being associated with the remaining service time of the first target satellite; updating the display position of the satellite representation in response to an attitude change of the electronic device; and establishing a communication connection with the first target satellite when the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than a first time threshold.

[0005] The above scheme guides users to align with the satellite by displaying the remaining service time based on the satellite's position, enabling communication between electronic devices and LEO satellites. It also ensures that the remaining service time of the satellite is sufficient, meaning that communication between the electronic devices and the satellite will not be interrupted in a short period of time, thus providing users with a good user experience.

[0006] In some implementations, the first interface includes a first sub-interface and a second sub-interface; wherein, the first sub-interface includes a first satellite sub-representation and a first region of the first target satellite, and the first sub-interface is used to indicate the positional relationship between the electronic device and the first target satellite in the azimuth angle; the second sub-interface includes a second satellite sub-representation and a second region of the first target satellite, and the second sub-interface is used to indicate the positional relationship between the electronic device and the first target satellite in the elevation angle; when the first satellite sub-representation is located in the first region and the second satellite sub-representation is located in the second region, it indicates that the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than the first time threshold.

[0007] The above solution, guided by the first and second sub-interfaces, allows users to align their electronic devices with the satellite at the azimuth and elevation angles, respectively, thus enabling satellite communication and providing a good user experience.

[0008] In some implementations, the first interface further includes first instruction information, which is used to instruct the user to change the attitude of the electronic device so that the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than the first time threshold.

[0009] The above solution displays prompts on electronic devices, guiding users on how to align the devices with satellites, thus providing a better user experience.

[0010] In some implementations, the first instruction information includes text information.

[0011] In some implementations, after establishing a communication connection with the first target satellite, the method further includes: displaying a second interface, the second interface including second indication information, the second indication information being used to indicate the remaining service time of the first target satellite while the electronic device maintains its current attitude.

[0012] The above method can inform users of the remaining service time of the satellite, prompting them to arrange their communication schedules accordingly.

[0013] In some implementations, the second interface includes second indication information, including: the second interface includes the first satellite sub-representation and the first region, the first satellite sub-representation is located within the first region, and the position of the first satellite sub-representation within the first region is used to indicate the remaining service time of the first target satellite while the electronic device maintains its current attitude.

[0014] The above scheme allows users to obtain the remaining service time of the satellite based on the location indicated by the satellite, thus encouraging users to rationally arrange their communication schedules.

[0015] In some implementations, the second interface includes second indication information, including: the second interface includes a third region, the area or angle of which is used to indicate the remaining service time of the first target satellite while the electronic device maintains its current attitude.

[0016] The above scheme allows users to obtain the remaining service time of the satellite by the area or angle of the third region, prompting users to rationally arrange their communication schedules.

[0017] In some implementations, if the remaining service time of the first target satellite is 0 when the electronic device maintains its current attitude, the method further includes: displaying third indication information on the second interface when the elevation angle between the first target satellite and the electronic device is less than a first angle threshold, the third indication information being used to indicate that the first target satellite is unavailable.

[0018] The above scheme will send a reminder to the user when the remaining service time of the first target satellite is 0, prompting the user to arrange the subsequent communication schedule.

[0019] In some implementations, the method further includes displaying an eighth indication message, the eighth indication message being used to indicate that a satellite communication mode is available during a first time period.

[0020] Optionally, displaying the eighth indication information includes displaying the eighth indication information on the second interface.

[0021] Optionally, displaying the eighth instruction information includes: after displaying the third instruction information on the second interface, displaying a seventh interface, the seventh interface including the eighth instruction information.

[0022] In some implementations, displaying third instruction information on the second interface includes hiding the first satellite sub-representation on the second interface.

[0023] In some implementations, if the remaining service time of the first target satellite is 0 when the electronic device maintains its current attitude, the method further includes: displaying fourth indication information on the second interface when the elevation angle between the first target satellite and the electronic device is greater than a first angle threshold. The fourth indication information is used to indicate the maximum remaining service time of the first target satellite, which is the maximum time that the first target satellite can provide services to the electronic device when the electronic device changes its attitude.

[0024] The above scheme reminds users of the maximum remaining service time of the current satellite when the remaining service time of the first target satellite is 0, prompting users to arrange their subsequent communication schedules.

[0025] The fourth indication information is displayed on the second interface, including: the second interface includes the first satellite sub-representation and the second area, and the position of the first satellite sub-representation in the second area is used to indicate the maximum remaining service time.

[0026] In some implementations, the method further includes: hiding the first satellite sub-representation on the second interface when the maximum remaining service time is 0.

[0027] In some implementations, if the remaining service time of the first target satellite is less than a third time threshold while the electronic device maintains its current attitude, the method further includes: displaying a third interface when the elevation angle between the first target satellite and the electronic device is greater than a first angle threshold, the third interface including a satellite representation of the first target satellite, the display position of the satellite representation of the first target satellite on the third interface being associated with the remaining service time of the first target satellite; updating the display position of the first satellite sub-representation in response to a change in the attitude of the electronic device; and maintaining or establishing a communication connection with the first target satellite when the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than a fourth time threshold.

[0028] The above scheme guides users to follow the satellite, thereby maintaining communication with the primary target satellite.

[0029] In some implementations, if the remaining service time of the first target satellite is 0 when the electronic device maintains its current attitude, the method further includes: displaying a fourth interface, the fourth interface including a satellite representation of the second target satellite, the display position of the satellite representation of the second target satellite on the fourth interface being associated with the remaining service time of the second target satellite; updating the display position of the satellite representation of the second target satellite in response to a change in the attitude of the electronic device; and establishing a communication connection with the second target satellite if the remaining service time of the second target satellite is greater than a second time threshold.

[0030] Using the above scheme, when the remaining service time of the first target satellite is 0, satellite switching is performed, and the user is guided to re-align with the new target satellite.

[0031] In some implementations, before displaying the first interface, the method further includes: determining that the electronic device can establish a connection with the first target satellite after waiting for a first duration; if the first duration is less than a fifth time threshold, then displaying the fifth interface; or, if the first duration is greater than the fifth time threshold, then displaying the sixth interface; wherein the fifth interface includes sixth indication information, the sixth interface includes seventh indication information, the sixth indication information is used to indicate that a connection with the satellite can be established after waiting for the first duration, and the seventh indication information is used to indicate that a connection with the satellite cannot be established.

[0032] The above solution guides users out of satellite communication mode when the satellite is unavailable for a short period of time, saving energy consumption of electronic devices.

[0033] In some implementations, the fifth interface includes sixth instruction information, including: the fifth interface includes the first duration.

[0034] In some implementations, if the display position represented by the first satellite sub-sub is outside the first area, and the display position represented by the second satellite sub-sub-sub is outside the second area, then the first area is displayed in a first color; or, if the display position represented by the first satellite sub-sub-sub is outside the first area, and the display position represented by the second satellite sub-sub-sub is inside the second area, then the first area is displayed in a second color; or, if the display position represented by the first satellite sub-sub-sub-sub is inside the first area, and the display position represented by the second satellite sub-sub-sub-sub is outside the second area, then the first area is displayed in the second color; or, if the display position represented by the first satellite sub-sub ...

[0035] In a second aspect, an electronic device is provided, comprising one or more processors; one or more memories; the one or more memories storing one or more computer programs, the one or more computer programs including instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the foregoing aspects or any possible implementation thereof to be performed.

[0036] Thirdly, a computer-readable storage medium is provided, comprising a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the first aspect and any possible implementation of the method of the first aspect to be performed.

[0037] Fourthly, a computer program product is provided, comprising a computer program or instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the first aspect and any possible implementation of the method of the first aspect to be performed.

[0038] Fifthly, a computer program is provided that, when run on a computer, causes the methods described in the first aspect and any possible implementation thereof to be executed.

[0039] Sixthly, an electronic device according to an embodiment of this application includes modules / units for performing the above aspects or any possible design of the above aspects; these modules / units can be implemented in hardware or implemented by hardware executing corresponding software.

[0040] For the beneficial effects of aspects two through six, please refer to the beneficial effects of aspects one and two, which will not be repeated here. Attached Figure Description

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0042] Figure 2 This is a software structure block diagram of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0043] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of the satellite communication method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0044] Figure 4 This is a set of GUIs provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0045] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of the satellite communication method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0046] Figure 6 This is a set of GUIs provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0047] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of the satellite communication method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0048] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart of the satellite communication method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0049] Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart of the satellite communication method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0050] Figure 10 This is a schematic flowchart of the satellite communication method provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0051] Figure 11 This is a set of GUIs provided in the embodiments of this application.

[0052] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the electronic device provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0053] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0054] The terminology used in the following embodiments is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. As used in the specification and appended claims of this application, the singular expressions “a,” “an,” “the,” “the,” “the,” and “this” are intended to also include expressions such as “one or more,” unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that in the following embodiments of this application, “at least one” and “one or more” refer to one, two, or more than two. The term “and / or” is used to describe the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships may exist; for example, A and / or B can indicate: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character “ / ” generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an “or” relationship.

[0055] References to "one embodiment" or "some embodiments" as described in this specification mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in one embodiment," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized.

[0056] The following describes an electronic device and embodiments for such an electronic device. In some embodiments, the electronic device may be a portable electronic device, such as a mobile phone, terminal device, tablet computer, wearable electronic device with wireless communication capabilities (such as a smartwatch), etc. Exemplary embodiments of the portable electronic device include, but are not limited to, carrying... Alternatively, it can be a portable electronic device with another operating system. The aforementioned portable electronic device can also be other portable electronic devices, such as laptops. The aforementioned portable electronic device may also include other functions such as a personal digital assistant and / or music player functionality. It should also be understood that in some other embodiments, the aforementioned electronic device may not be a portable electronic device, but rather a desktop computer. In some embodiments, the electronic device may be a device within a smart driving system.

[0057] For example, Figure 1A schematic diagram of the structure of electronic device 100 is shown. Electronic device 100 may include a processor 110, an external memory interface 120, an internal memory 121, a universal serial bus (USB) interface 130, a charging management module 140, a power management module 141, a battery 142, antenna 1, antenna 2, a mobile communication module 150, a satellite communication module 151, a wireless communication module 160, an audio module 170, a speaker 170A, a receiver 170B, a microphone 170C, a headphone jack 170D, a sensor module 180, buttons 190, a motor 191, an indicator 192, a camera 193, a display screen 194, and a subscriber identification module (SIM) card interface 195, etc. The sensor module 180 may include a pressure sensor 180A, a gyroscope sensor 180B, a barometric pressure sensor 180C, a magnetic sensor 180D, an accelerometer sensor 180E, a distance sensor 180F, a proximity sensor 180G, a fingerprint sensor 180H, a temperature sensor 180J, a touch sensor 180K, an ambient light sensor 180L, a bone conduction sensor 180M, etc.

[0058] It is understood that the structures illustrated in the embodiments of this application do not constitute a specific limitation on the electronic device 100. In other embodiments of this application, the electronic device 100 may include more or fewer components than illustrated, or combine some components, or split some components, or have different component arrangements. The illustrated components may be implemented in hardware, software, or a combination of software and hardware.

[0059] Processor 110 may include one or more processing units, such as: application processor (AP), modem processor, graphics processing unit (GPU), image signal processor (ISP), controller, memory, video codec, digital signal processor (DSP), baseband processor, and / or neural network processing unit (NPU), etc. Different processing units may be independent devices or integrated into one or more processors.

[0060] The controller can be the nerve center and command center of the electronic device 100. The controller can generate operation control signals according to the instruction opcode and timing signals to complete the control of fetching and executing instructions.

[0061] The processor 110 may also include a memory for storing instructions and data. In some embodiments, the memory in the processor 110 is a cache memory. This memory can store instructions or data that the processor 110 has just used or that are used repeatedly. If the processor 110 needs to use the instruction or data again, it can retrieve it directly from the memory. This avoids repeated accesses, reduces the waiting time of the processor 110, and thus improves the efficiency of the system.

[0062] In some embodiments, the processor 110 may include one or more interfaces. Interfaces may include an inter-integrated circuit (I2C) interface, an inter-integrated circuit sound (I2S) interface, a pulse code modulation (PCM) interface, a universal asynchronous receiver / transmitter (UART) interface, a mobile industry processor interface (MIPI), a general-purpose input / output (GPIO) interface, a subscriber identity module (SIM) interface, and / or a universal serial bus (USB) interface, etc.

[0063] The wireless communication function of electronic device 100 can be implemented through antenna 1, antenna 2, antenna 3, mobile communication module 150, satellite communication module 151, wireless communication module 160, modem processor, and baseband processor. Antenna 1, 2, or 3 may include one antenna or multiple antennas.

[0064] Antennas 1, 2, and 3 are used to transmit and receive electromagnetic wave signals. Each antenna in electronic device 100 can be used to cover one or more communication frequency bands. Different antennas can also be multiplexed to improve antenna utilization. For example, antenna 1 can be multiplexed as a diversity antenna for a wireless local area network. In some other embodiments, the antennas can be used in conjunction with a tuning switch. Antenna 3 can be used to transmit signals to and / or receive signals from a satellite.

[0065] The mobile communication module 150 can provide solutions for wireless communication, including 2G / 3G / 4G / 5G or more advanced technologies, applied to the electronic device 100. The mobile communication module 150 may include at least one filter, switch, power amplifier, low noise amplifier (LNA), etc. The mobile communication module 150 can receive electromagnetic waves via the antenna 1, and perform filtering, amplification, and other processing on the received electromagnetic waves before transmitting them to the modem processor for demodulation. The mobile communication module 150 can also amplify the signal modulated by the modem processor and convert it into electromagnetic waves for radiation via the antenna 1. In some embodiments, at least some functional modules of the mobile communication module 150 may be housed in the processor 110. In some embodiments, at least some functional modules of the mobile communication module 150 and at least some modules of the processor 110 may be housed in the same device.

[0066] Satellite communication module 151 can provide a solution for electronic devices to communicate with satellites. Satellite communication module 151 can be one or more devices integrating at least one communication processing module. Satellite communication module 151 receives electromagnetic waves via antenna 3, performs frequency modulation and filtering of the electromagnetic wave signals, and sends the processed signal to processor 110. Satellite communication module 151 can also receive signals to be transmitted from processor 110, perform frequency modulation and amplification, and convert them into electromagnetic waves for radiation via antenna 3.

[0067] In this application, the type of satellite communicating with electronic devices is not specifically limited. Examples include, but are not limited to, Tiantong satellites, Beidou satellites, Inmarsat satellites, or Iridium satellites.

[0068] The modem processor may include a modulator and a demodulator. The modulator modulates the low-frequency baseband signal to be transmitted into a mid-to-high frequency signal. The demodulator demodulates the received electromagnetic wave signal into a low-frequency baseband signal. The demodulator then transmits the demodulated low-frequency baseband signal to the baseband processor for processing. After processing by the baseband processor, the low-frequency baseband signal is transmitted to the application processor. The application processor outputs sound signals through an audio device (not limited to speaker 170A, receiver 170B, etc.) or displays images or videos through the display screen 194. In some embodiments, the modem processor may be a separate device. In other embodiments, the modem processor may be independent of the processor 110 and may be housed in the same device as the mobile communication module 150 or other functional modules.

[0069] The wireless communication module 160 can provide solutions for wireless communication applications on the electronic device 100, including wireless local area networks (WLANs) (such as wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) networks), Bluetooth (BT), global navigation satellite system (GNSS), frequency modulation (FM), near field communication (NFC), and infrared (IR) technologies. The wireless communication module 160 can be one or more devices integrating at least one communication processing module. The wireless communication module 160 receives electromagnetic waves via antenna 2, performs frequency modulation and filtering of the electromagnetic wave signals, and sends the processed signal to processor 110. The wireless communication module 160 can also receive signals to be transmitted from processor 110, perform frequency modulation and amplification, and convert them into electromagnetic waves for radiation via antenna 2.

[0070] In some embodiments, antenna 1 of electronic device 100 is coupled to mobile communication module 150, and antenna 2 is coupled to wireless communication module 160, enabling electronic device 100 to communicate with networks and other devices via wireless communication technology. The wireless communication technology may include Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), Time-Division Code Division Multiple Access (TD-CDMA), Long Term Evolution (LTE), BT, GNSS, WLAN, NFC, FM, and / or IR technologies, etc. The GNSS may include the Global Positioning System (GPS), the Global Navigation Satellite System (GLONASS), the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS), the Quasi-Zenith Satellite System (QZSS), and / or satellite-based augmentation systems (SBAS).

[0071] Electronic device 100 implements display functions through a GPU, a display screen 194, and an application processor. The GPU is a microprocessor for image processing, connected to the display screen 194 and the application processor. The GPU is used to perform mathematical and geometric calculations and for graphics rendering. Processor 110 may include one or more GPUs, which execute program instructions to generate or modify display information.

[0072] Display screen 194 is used to display images, videos, etc. Display screen 194 includes a display panel. The display panel may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED), a flexible light-emitting diode (FLED), a MiniLED, a MicroLED, a Micro-OLED, a quantum dot light-emitting diode (QLED), etc. In some embodiments, electronic device 100 may include one or N displays 194, where N is a positive integer greater than 1.

[0073] Electronic device 100 can perform shooting functions through ISP, camera 193, video codec, GPU, display 194 and application processor.

[0074] Internal memory 121 can be used to store computer executable program code, which includes instructions. Processor 110 executes various functional applications and data processing of electronic device 100 by running the instructions stored in internal memory 121. Internal memory 121 may include a program storage area and a data storage area. The program storage area may store the operating system, at least one application program required for a function (such as sound playback, image playback, etc.), etc. The data storage area may store data created during the use of electronic device 100 (such as audio data, phonebook, etc.). Furthermore, internal memory 121 may include high-speed random access memory and may also include non-volatile memory, such as at least one disk storage device, flash memory device, universal flash storage (UFS), etc.

[0075] Electronic device 100 can implement audio functions, such as music playback and recording, through audio module 170, speaker 170A, receiver 170B, microphone 170C, headphone jack 170D, and application processor.

[0076] The audio module 170 is used to convert digital audio information into analog audio signals for output, and also to convert analog audio input into digital audio signals. The audio module 170 can also be used for encoding and decoding audio signals. In some embodiments, the audio module 170 may be located in the processor 110, or some functional modules of the audio module 170 may be located in the processor 110.

[0077] The speaker 170A, also known as a "loudspeaker," is used to convert audio electrical signals into sound signals. The electronic device 100 can listen to music or make hands-free calls through the speaker 170A.

[0078] The receiver 170B, also known as the "earpiece," is used to convert audio electrical signals into sound signals. When the electronic device 100 answers a telephone call or voice message, the receiver 170B can be brought close to the ear to listen to the voice.

[0079] Microphone 170C, also known as a "microphone" or "voice transducer," is used to convert sound signals into electrical signals. When making a phone call or sending a voice message, the user can speak by bringing their mouth close to microphone 170C, inputting the sound signal into microphone 170C. Electronic device 100 may have at least one microphone 170C. In some embodiments, electronic device 100 may have two microphones 170C, which, in addition to collecting sound signals, can also perform noise reduction. In other embodiments, electronic device 100 may also have three, four, or more microphones 170C, which can collect sound signals, reduce noise, identify the sound source, and perform directional recording, etc.

[0080] Figure 2 This is a software structure block diagram of an electronic device 100 according to an embodiment of this application. The layered architecture divides the software into several layers, each with a clear role and function. Layers communicate with each other through software interfaces. In some embodiments, the Android system is divided into four layers, from top to bottom: the application layer, the application framework layer, the Android runtime and system libraries, and the kernel layer. The application layer may include a series of application packages.

[0081] like Figure 2 As shown, the application layer can include camera, settings, third-party applications, etc. Third-party applications can include gallery, calendar, call, map, navigation, WLAN, Bluetooth, music, video, SMS, etc.

[0082] The application framework layer provides application programming interfaces (APIs) and programming frameworks for applications in the application layer. The application framework layer may include some predefined functions.

[0083] like Figure 2 As shown, the application framework layer may include a window manager, content provider, view system, phone manager, resource manager, notification manager, etc.

[0084] The window manager is used to manage windowed applications. It can obtain the screen size, determine if a status bar is present, lock the screen, and capture screenshots. The content provider stores and retrieves data, making this data accessible to applications. This data may include videos, images, audio, made and received phone calls, browsing history and bookmarks, phone books, etc.

[0085] The view system includes visual controls, such as controls for displaying text, controls for displaying images, and such as the indicator information for displaying the virtual shutter button in the embodiments of this application. The view system can be used to build applications. The display interface can consist of one or more views. For example, a display interface including a text message notification icon can include a view for displaying text and a view for displaying images.

[0086] The phone manager is used to provide communication functions for electronic device 100. For example, it manages call status (including connection and disconnection).

[0087] The file explorer provides applications with various resources, such as localized strings, icons, images, layout files, video files, and more.

[0088] The notification manager allows applications to display notifications in the status bar. These notifications can be used to deliver informational messages and can disappear automatically after a short pause, requiring no user interaction. For example, the notification manager can be used to notify users of completed downloads or message alerts. The notification manager can also display notifications as icons or scrolling text in the top status bar, such as notifications from background applications, or as dialog boxes on the screen. Examples include displaying text messages in the status bar, emitting sounds, vibrating electronic devices, and flashing indicator lights.

[0089] The Android runtime consists of core libraries and a virtual machine. The Android runtime is responsible for scheduling and managing the Android system.

[0090] The core library consists of two parts: one part is the functionalities that need to be called by the Java language, and the other part is the Android core library.

[0091] The application layer and application framework layer run in a virtual machine. The virtual machine executes the Java files of the application layer and application framework layer as binary files. The virtual machine is used to perform functions such as object lifecycle management, stack management, thread management, security and exception management, and garbage collection.

[0092] System libraries can include multiple functional modules. For example: surface manager, media libraries, 3D graphics processing libraries (e.g., OpenGL ES), 2D graphics engines (e.g., SGL), etc.

[0093] The Surface Manager is used to manage the display subsystem and provides the blending of 2D and 3D layers for multiple applications.

[0094] The media library supports playback and recording of various common audio and video formats, as well as still image files. It supports multiple audio and video encoding formats, such as MPEG4, H.264, MP3, AAC, AMR, JPG, and PNG.

[0095] The 3D graphics processing library is used to implement 3D graphics drawing, image rendering, compositing, and layer processing.

[0096] A 2D graphics engine is a graphics engine for 2D drawing.

[0097] In addition, the system library may also include status monitoring service modules, such as a physical status recognition module for analyzing and recognizing user gestures; and a sensor service module for monitoring sensor data uploaded by various sensors at the hardware layer to determine the physical status of the electronic device 100.

[0098] The kernel layer is the layer between hardware and software. The kernel layer contains at least the display driver, camera driver, audio driver, and sensor driver.

[0099] The hardware layer can include various types of sensors, such as Figure 1 The various sensors described in the document include accelerometers, gyroscopes, touch sensors, etc., which are involved in the embodiments of this application.

[0100] It should be noted that, Figure 2 This example only illustrates one way of dividing the system framework and should not be construed as a specific limitation on the embodiments of this application. In the embodiments of this application, different frameworks can be used for different operating systems when the electronic device is equipped with different operating systems. It is understood that when different frameworks are adopted, the way the framework is divided into layers, the specific naming, and the specific layer in which each of the above modules is located can be different.

[0101] To facilitate understanding of the embodiments of this application, some basic concepts involved in this application will be briefly explained.

[0102] 1. Non-terrestrial networks (NTN)

[0103] NTN communication involves networking using equipment such as drones, high-altitude platforms, or satellites to provide UEs with services such as data transmission and voice communication. High-altitude platform equipment is generally located at an altitude of 8–50 km above the ground. Based on the satellite's orbital altitude, satellite communication systems can be divided into three types: geostationary earth orbit (GEO) satellite communication systems (also known as synchronous orbit satellite systems); medium earth orbit (MEO) satellite communication systems; and low earth orbit (LEO) satellite communication systems. GEO satellites orbit at an altitude of 35,786 km, and their main advantage is that they remain relatively stationary compared to the ground and provide a large coverage area. However, GEO satellite communication also has significant disadvantages:

[0104] 1) GEO satellites are far from Earth, resulting in high free-space propagation loss and tight communication link budgets. To increase transmit / receive gain, satellites need to be equipped with larger aperture antennas.

[0105] 2) The communication transmission delay is large, reaching about 500ms round-trip delay, which cannot meet the needs of low-latency services;

[0106] 3) GEO orbital resources are relatively scarce, launch costs are high, and it cannot provide coverage for the polar regions of the Earth.

[0107] MEO satellites orbit at altitudes between 2000 and 35786 km. Their advantage is that they can achieve global coverage with a relatively small number of satellites. However, their orbital altitude is higher than LEO, resulting in significantly longer communication transmission delays. Considering both the advantages and disadvantages of MEO satellite communication, MEO satellites are primarily used for positioning and navigation.

[0108] LEO satellites orbit at altitudes ranging from 300 to 2000 km. Compared to MEO and GEO orbits, LEO satellites operate at lower altitudes, offering advantages such as shorter data propagation delays, lower transmission losses, and lower launch costs. Therefore, LEO satellite communication has gained increasing attention in recent years.

[0109] 2. Remaining service time and maximum remaining service time of the satellite.

[0110] 1) Remaining service time of a satellite: This refers to the time during which a satellite can provide service to an electronic device when it is in a certain attitude; or, in other words, the countdown before the satellite can continue to provide service to the electronic device when it is in a certain attitude; or, after the remaining service time corresponding to that attitude, the satellite will no longer be able to provide service to the electronic device. This remaining service time is related to the attitude of the electronic device.

[0111] It should be understood that the attitude of an electronic device includes its azimuth angle and pitch angle.

[0112] Here, azimuth refers to the horizontal angle in which the electronic device points, or the rotation angle of the electronic device around its own vertical axis (the vertical direction when the electronic device's interface is displayed). For example, with true north as the reference, the azimuth angle when the electronic device points to true north is 0°. The angle of rotation when the electronic device rotates clockwise to the target direction is the azimuth angle, ranging from 0° to 360°. As another example, with the current pointing direction of the electronic device as the reference, the current azimuth angle is 0°. The angle of rotation when the electronic device rotates clockwise to the target direction is the azimuth angle, ranging from 0° to 360°. It should be understood that this application does not limit the specific definition of azimuth angle, as long as it can characterize the horizontal pointing of the electronic device.

[0113] The pitch angle refers to the vertical angle in which the electronic device is pointing, or the tilt angle around its own horizontal axis (left-right direction). For example, taking the horizontal direction as a reference (0°), the angle between the direction the electronic device is pointing and the horizontal direction is the pitch angle. It is positive when the electronic device is pointing upwards and negative when pointing downwards, ranging from -90° to +90°. As another example, taking the electronic device pointing directly upwards as a reference, the angle of rotation when the electronic device rotates downwards to the target direction is the pitch angle, ranging from 0 to 180°. Similarly, taking the electronic device pointing directly downwards as a reference, the angle of rotation when the electronic device rotates upwards to the target direction is the pitch angle, ranging from 0 to 180°. Again, taking the current pointing direction of the electronic device as a reference (0°), the angle of rotation when the electronic device rotates upwards or downwards to the target direction is the pitch angle, positive when rotating upwards and negative when rotating downwards. It should be understood that this application does not limit the specific definition of the pitch angle, as long as it can characterize the pointing of the electronic device in the vertical direction.

[0114] The direction in which the electronic device is pointed refers to the direction in which the antenna of the electronic device is pointing. For example, when the electronic device is a mobile phone, the direction in which the head of the mobile phone is pointing is the direction in which the electronic device is pointed.

[0115] It should be understood that as long as the elevation angle between the satellite and the electronic device is greater than a certain threshold, meaning the satellite is visible to the electronic device, then the satellite can provide services to the electronic device if its antenna is pointed at it. The elevation angle between the satellite and the electronic device (or the user) refers to the angle between the satellite and the horizontal plane as observed from the electronic device on the ground, or the angle between the satellite and the horizontal plane where the electronic device is located (0°–90°).

[0116] It should be understood that at any given moment, the time a satellite can provide services to an electronic device will vary depending on the device's attitude (i.e., pitch angle, azimuth angle, etc.).

[0117] 2) Maximum remaining service time of a satellite: This refers to the maximum time that a satellite can provide services to electronic devices. This maximum remaining service time is independent of the attitude of the electronic devices and is related to the relative position of the satellite and the electronic devices.

[0118] It should be understood that if a satellite is visible to electronic devices, then the maximum remaining service time of that satellite is greater than 0.

[0119] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the "remaining service time" mentioned refers to the remaining service time described in 1) above, unless otherwise specified as the maximum remaining service time.

[0120] Based on the description of the background technology, this application provides a satellite communication method that can guide users to adjust the attitude of electronic devices so that the satellite communication antenna in the electronic devices is aligned with the communication satellite, thereby better establishing or maintaining a connection with LEO satellites, improving the success rate of establishing satellite connections, and helping to enhance the user experience.

[0121] Figure 3 This is a schematic flowchart of the satellite communication method 300 provided in this application. The method 300 includes the following steps:

[0122] S310, the electronic device displays the first interface.

[0123] The first interface includes a satellite representation of the first target satellite, and the display position of the satellite representation on the first interface is associated with the remaining service time of the first target satellite.

[0124] The satellite representation of the first target satellite is displayed on the first interface to indicate the positional relationship between the electronic device and the first target satellite, and this positional relationship is related to the remaining service time of the first target satellite.

[0125] The satellite refers to a graphical representation of a satellite, which can be a pattern of a satellite, such as a pattern of a satellite shape, or any geometric pattern, etc. This application does not limit this.

[0126] It should be noted that this first interface is used to guide the user to move the electronic device to align it with the satellite. Optionally, aligning the electronic device with the satellite includes azimuth alignment and elevation alignment.

[0127] Optionally, the first interface may also be called a satellite search guidance interface, satellite alignment interface, etc., and this application does not limit it in this way.

[0128] In one implementation, the first interface includes a first sub-interface and a second sub-interface. The first sub-interface includes a first satellite sub-representation of the first target satellite and a first region, and is used to indicate the positional relationship between the electronic device and the first target satellite in the azimuth angle. The second sub-interface includes a second satellite sub-representation of the first target satellite and a second region, and is used to indicate the positional relationship between the electronic device and the first target satellite in the elevation angle. The first or second region is a geometric region on the first interface.

[0129] It should be noted that the first sub-interface, also known as the azimuth alignment interface, is used to guide the user to align the electronic device with the first target satellite in the azimuth angle. The second sub-interface, also known as the elevation alignment interface, is used to guide the user to align the electronic device with the first target satellite in the elevation angle.

[0130] The satellite's display position on the first interface is associated with the remaining service time of the first target satellite, including: when the first satellite sub-representation is located in the first region and the second satellite sub-representation is located in the second region, it indicates that the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than or equal to the first time threshold; when the first satellite sub-representation is not located in the first region or the second satellite sub-representation is not located in the second region, it indicates that the remaining service time of the first target satellite is less than the first time threshold.

[0131] Alternatively, the satellite sub-representation's display position on the first interface may be associated with the remaining service time of the first target satellite, including: when the first satellite sub-representation is located in the first region and the second satellite sub-representation is located in the second region, it indicates that the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than a first time threshold; when the first satellite sub-representation is not located in the first region or the second satellite sub-representation is not located in the second region, it indicates that the remaining service time of the first target satellite is less than or equal to the first time threshold.

[0132] For example, the first time threshold can be determined based on the ephemeris chart of the first target satellite and the location of the electronic equipment.

[0133] Optionally, the first time threshold may be pre-configured, indicated by the network device to the electronic device, or determined by the electronic device.

[0134] S320 updates the displayed position of the satellite representation of the first target satellite in response to changes in the attitude of the electronic equipment.

[0135] It should be understood that when the user changes the attitude of the electronic device, the positional relationship between the electronic device and the first target satellite in azimuth and / or pitch angles will also change, and the electronic device can reflect this positional relationship on the first interface.

[0136] For example, when a user rotates the electronic device to the left or right, the display position of the first satellite sub-representation on the first sub-interface is updated.

[0137] For example, when the user rotates the electronic device up or down, the display position of the second satellite sub-indicator on the second sub-interface is updated.

[0138] In the embodiments of this application, the process of displaying the first interface and updating the display position of the satellite in response to changes in the attitude of the electronic device, thereby guiding the user to align the electronic device with the satellite through the first interface, can be carried out in the following two ways.

[0139] Method 1

[0140] The first sub-interface and the second sub-interface in the first interface are displayed simultaneously.

[0141] Figure 4 A set of graphical user interfaces (GUIs) is shown.

[0142] like Figure 4 As shown in (a), interface 401 (i.e., an example of the first interface) includes satellite sub-representation 1 (i.e., an example of the first satellite sub-representation), satellite sub-representation 2 (i.e., an example of the second satellite sub-representation), region 1 (i.e., an example of the first region), and region 2 (i.e., an example of the second region).

[0143] Among them, region 1 is Figure 4 The fan-shaped shaded area shown in (a), area 2 is Figure 4 The region shown in (a) is the inner circle centered at point O (i.e., the inner circle in the concentric circles shown in the figure).

[0144] It should be understood that, in response to changes in the attitude of the electronic device in azimuth and pitch angles, the display position of satellite sub-representation 1 on the first sub-interface and the display position of satellite sub-representation 2 on the second sub-interface will also change.

[0145] It should be understood that when satellite sub-indicator 1 is located in region 1, it means that the electronic device is aligned with the first target satellite in azimuth angle; when satellite sub-indicator 2 is located in region 2, it means that the electronic device is aligned with the first target satellite in elevation angle. If satellite sub-indicator 1 is located in region 1 and satellite sub-indicator 2 is located in region 2, it means that the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than a first time threshold, and the electronic device can establish a communication connection with the first target satellite.

[0146] When satellite sub-representation 1 is not located in region 1 or satellite sub-representation 2 is not located in region 2, it indicates that the electronic equipment is not yet aligned with the satellite in azimuth or elevation angle, or in other words, the remaining service time of the first target satellite is less than the first time threshold under the current attitude of the electronic equipment.

[0147] Optionally, when satellite sub-representation 1 is not located in region 1 or satellite sub-representation 2 is not located in region 2, the first interface includes first indication information, which is used to instruct the user to change the orientation of the electronic device so that the first satellite sub-representation is located in the first region and the second satellite sub-representation is located in the second region.

[0148] Optionally, the first indication information includes at least one of the following: text information, image information, voice information, or vibration information. For each type of information, the first indication information may include one or more of that information.

[0149] For example, the first screen displays "Please turn your phone to the right to move the satellite to the fan-shaped area" to prompt the user to align the azimuth.

[0150] For example, the first screen may display "Til your phone upwards to move the ball to the center area" to prompt the user to align the tilt angle.

[0151] For example, the first screen may simultaneously display "Please turn your phone to the right to move the satellite to the fan-shaped area" and "Til your phone upwards to move the ball to the center area" to prompt the user to align the azimuth and elevation angles.

[0152] For example, a right-pointing arrow can be displayed on the first screen to prompt the user to align the azimuth.

[0153] For example, an upward arrow might be displayed on the first screen to prompt the user to align the pitch. Alternatively, the electronic device might provide voice prompts to indicate whether to align the azimuth or pitch.

[0154] For example, when the electronic device is aligned with the first target satellite in azimuth or elevation, the electronic device will emit a vibration alert.

[0155] In addition, color can be used to indicate the alignment status of azimuth and elevation angles.

[0156] For example, if the display position represented by the first satellite is outside the first area, and the display position represented by the second satellite is outside the second area, then the first area is displayed in a first color; or, if the display position represented by the first satellite is outside the first area, and the display position represented by the second satellite is inside the second area, then the first area is displayed in a second color; or, if the display position represented by the first satellite is inside the first area, and the display position represented by the second satellite is outside the second area, then the first area is displayed in a second color; or, if the display position represented by the first satellite is inside the first area, and the display position represented by the second satellite is inside the second area, then the first area is displayed in a third color.

[0157] Among these, the second color is the same as the first color, and the second color is different from the third color; or, the second color is the same as the third color, and the second color is different from the first color; or, the first color, the second color, and the third color are all different.

[0158] Method 2

[0159] The first and second sub-interfaces in the first interface are not displayed simultaneously. That is, the first sub-interface is displayed first, followed by the second sub-interface, i.e., azimuth alignment is performed first, followed by pitch alignment; or the second sub-interface is displayed first, followed by the first sub-interface, i.e., pitch alignment is performed first, followed by azimuth alignment.

[0160] like Figure 4 As shown in (b), interface 402 (i.e., an example of the first sub-interface) includes satellite sub-representation 1 (i.e., an example of the first satellite sub-representation) and region 1 (i.e., an example of the first region).

[0161] Among them, region 1 is Figure 4 The fan-shaped shaded area shown in (b).

[0162] It should be understood that, in response to the attitude change of the electronic device in the azimuth angle, the display position of satellite sub-representation 1 on the first sub-interface will also change. It should be understood that when the electronic device is aligned with the first target satellite in the azimuth angle, satellite sub-representation 1 is located in region 1.

[0163] Optionally, when satellite sub-representation 1 is not located in region 1, the first interface includes indication information that instructs the user to change the orientation of the electronic device so that satellite sub-representation 1 is located in region 1.

[0164] Optionally, the indication information may include at least one of the following: text information, image information, voice information, or vibration information. For each type of information, the indication information may include one or more of that information.

[0165] For example, the first screen displays "Please turn your phone to the right to move the satellite to the fan-shaped area" to prompt the user to align the azimuth.

[0166] For example, a right-pointing arrow can be displayed on the first screen to prompt the user to align the azimuth.

[0167] For example, electronic devices may issue voice prompts to indicate when to align the azimuth.

[0168] For example, when the electronic device is aligned with the first target satellite in azimuth angle, the electronic device emits a vibration alert.

[0169] like Figure 4 As shown in (c), interface 403 (i.e., an example of the second sub-interface) includes satellite sub-representation 2 (i.e., an example of the second satellite sub-representation) and region 2 (i.e., an example of the second region).

[0170] Among them, region 2 is Figure 4 The region shown in (c) is the inner circle centered at point O (i.e., the inner circle in the concentric circles shown in the figure).

[0171] It should be understood that, in response to changes in the pitch angle of the electronic device, the display position of satellite sub-representation 2 on the first sub-interface will also change.

[0172] It should be understood that when the electronic equipment is aligned with the first target satellite in the elevation angle, satellite sub-representation 2 is located in region 2.

[0173] Optionally, when satellite sub-representation 2 is not located in region 2, the first interface includes instruction information to instruct the user to change the orientation of the electronic device so that satellite sub-representation 2 is located in region 2.

[0174] Optionally, the indication information may include at least one of the following: text information, image information, voice information, or vibration information. For each type of information, the indication information may include one or more of that information.

[0175] For example, the first screen displays "Til your phone upwards to move the ball to the center area" to prompt the user to align the tilt angle.

[0176] For example, an upward arrow can be displayed on the first screen to prompt the user to adjust the pitch angle.

[0177] For example, electronic devices may issue voice prompts to indicate the correct pitch angle.

[0178] For example, when the electronic device is aligned with the first target satellite in azimuth angle, the electronic device emits a vibration alert.

[0179] If azimuth alignment is performed first, followed by elevation alignment, then interface 402 will be displayed first, and azimuth alignment will be performed. When the electronic device is aligned with the first target satellite in azimuth, interface 403 will be displayed, and elevation alignment will be performed.

[0180] Alternatively, if elevation angle alignment is performed first, followed by azimuth angle alignment, then interface 403 is displayed first, and elevation angle alignment is performed. When the electronic device is aligned with the first target satellite in elevation angle, interface 402 is displayed, and azimuth angle alignment is performed.

[0181] S330: If the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than the first time threshold, establish a communication connection with the first target satellite.

[0182] When the first satellite sub-representation is located in the first region and the second satellite sub-representation is located in the second region, it indicates that the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than the first time threshold.

[0183] In the embodiments of this application, in order to make the remaining service time of the first target satellite greater than the first time threshold, it is necessary to first obtain the effective azimuth angle set and the effective elevation angle set that enable the remaining service time of the first target satellite to be greater than the first time threshold.

[0184] The effective azimuth set can be a single azimuth angle range or a set of several azimuth angle ranges. For example, the effective azimuth set can be 0° to 60°; when the azimuth angle is between 30° and 40°, obstructions may prevent electronic equipment from effectively connecting to the first target satellite, in which case the effective azimuth set can be 0° to 30° and 40° to 60°. The effective elevation angle set can be a single elevation angle range or a set of several elevation angle ranges.

[0185] When the azimuth angle of the electronic device is a certain azimuth angle in the effective azimuth angle set, and the elevation angle of the electronic device is a certain elevation angle in the effective elevation angle set, the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than the first time threshold. It should be understood that on the first interface, the effective azimuth angle set can be mapped to a first region, and the effective elevation angle set can be mapped to a second region.

[0186] Specifically, the electronic equipment can determine the effective azimuth and effective elevation angle sets based on the ephemeris information of the first target satellite and the position information of the electronic equipment.

[0187] Once the electronic device determines the effective azimuth angle set and the effective pitch angle set, it can map the effective azimuth angle set to a first region and the effective pitch angle set to a second region.

[0188] For example, the set of effective azimuth angles Or the effective azimuth set is [α1, α2]. N The electronic device maps the effective azimuth set to the first region by: mapping α1 of the effective azimuth set to the left boundary (OD) of the first region, and mapping α... N The mapping is to the right boundary (OE) of the first region, so that any azimuth angle in the first region can satisfy the requirement that the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than the first time threshold.

[0189] For example, the effective pitch angle range is [γ1, γ2]. N The electronic device maps the effective pitch angle set to the second region by: mapping γ1 of the effective pitch angle set to the lower boundary of the second region, and mapping γ... N The elevation angle is mapped to the upper boundary of the second region, so that any elevation angle in the second region can satisfy the condition that the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than the first time threshold.

[0190] Optionally, the size and extent of the first and second regions remain unchanged.

[0191] After the electronic device establishes a connection with the first target satellite, as the relative positional relationship between the first target satellite and the electronic device changes, the remaining service time of the first target satellite will also change over time. In order for users to obtain the change of the remaining service time more intuitively, the remaining service time of the satellite can be indicated to users through the following method 500.

[0192] Figure 5 This is a schematic flowchart of the satellite communication method 500 provided in this application. It should be understood that method 500 can be executed after step S330 of method 300, and method 500 includes the following steps:

[0193] S510, display a second interface, which includes second indication information, used to indicate the remaining service time of the first target satellite while the electronic equipment maintains its current attitude.

[0194] The display of the second interface can be understood as follows: after establishing a communication connection with the first target satellite as shown in method 300, the electronic device switches from the first interface to the second interface.

[0195] The electronic device maintaining its current attitude can be understood as: the pitch angle and azimuth angle of the electronic device remain unchanged; or, the change in the pitch angle and azimuth angle of the electronic device is less than a certain threshold, which can be pre-configured, indicated to the electronic device by the network device, or determined by the electronic device.

[0196] It should be understood that after the electronic equipment completes alignment with the first target satellite, the electronic equipment can determine the remaining service time of the first target satellite in its current attitude, which can be denoted as t. service .

[0197] For example, after the electronic device completes alignment with the first target satellite, its corresponding attitude is (α). u ,β u ,γ u ), where α u β represents the azimuth angle of the electronic device. u γ represents the roll angle of electronic devices. u This represents the pitch angle of the electronic device. Therefore, the electronic device can determine (α). u ,β u ,γ u Under the given attitude, the remaining service time t of the first target satellite service .

[0198] Optionally, the second indication information includes at least one of the following: text information, image information, voice information, or vibration information. For each type of information, the second indication information may include one or more of that information.

[0199] For example, the second instruction information includes text information, such as displaying "The remaining service time of the current satellite is XX hours" on the second interface.

[0200] For example, the second instruction information includes voice information, such as an electronic device's voice prompt "The remaining service time of the current satellite is XX hours".

[0201] For example, the second instruction information includes image information.

[0202] In one implementation, the second interface includes a first satellite sub-representation and a first region, wherein the first satellite sub-representation is located within the first region, and the position of the first satellite sub-representation within the first region is used to indicate the remaining service time of the first target satellite while the electronic device maintains its current attitude.

[0203] by Figure 6 For example, in interface (a), interface 601 (i.e., an example of the second interface) includes satellite sub-representation 1 (i.e., an example of the first satellite sub-representation) and region 1 (i.e., an example of the first region).

[0204] It should be understood that once the electronic device completes alignment with the first target satellite, its corresponding attitude is (α). u ,β u ,γ u If ), then α is used. uAfter aligning with the satellite, the satellite appears at a certain position in region 1, which can be denoted as S. This allows us to obtain the angle value of ∠EOS, which can represent t. service . t service The change can be reflected by the change in the angle value of ∠EOS. For example, the angular velocity of satellite 1 moving from left to right is:

[0205]

[0206] It should be understood that as the remaining service time of the first target satellite decreases, satellite sub-representation 1 moves to the right on the outside of region 1, that is, the angle value of ∠EOS decreases. If the remaining service time under the current electronic device attitude is zero, satellite icon 1 moves to the edge of sector (region 1), that is, the position of point E.

[0207] In another implementation, the second interface includes a third region, the area or angle of which is used to indicate the remaining service time of the first target satellite while the electronic equipment maintains its current attitude.

[0208] by Figure 6 Taking (d) as an example, interface 602 (i.e., an example of the second interface) includes region 1 (i.e., an example of the third region). It should be understood that as the remaining service time of the first target satellite decreases, the area of ​​region 1 decreases, i.e., the angle value of ∠DOE decreases.

[0209] Optionally, if the remaining service time under the current electronic device attitude is zero, for example, when satellite icon 1 moves to the position of point E, the pitch angle between the first target satellite and the electronic device is less than the first angle threshold, then even if the attitude of the electronic device is readjusted, the first target satellite is no longer available. In this case, method 500 may also include step S520.

[0210] S520: If the elevation angle between the first target satellite and the user is less than the first angle threshold, a third indication message is displayed on the second interface. The third indication message is used to indicate that the first target satellite is unavailable.

[0211] Optionally, the third indication information includes at least one of the following: text information, image information, voice information, or vibration information. For each type of information, the third indication information may include one or more of that information.

[0212] For example, the third instruction information includes text information, such as displaying "Current satellite unavailable" on the second interface.

[0213] For example, the third type of instruction information includes voice information, such as an electronic device's voice prompt "Current satellite is unavailable".

[0214] For example, the third instruction information includes image information. For instance, the first satellite sub-representation is hidden on the second interface.

[0215] Optionally, after informing the user that the first target satellite is unavailable via the third indication information, if there is currently no available satellite and a satellite will be available to provide services to electronic devices at some time in the future, the user can also be informed of when satellite communication will be available in the future. This allows the user to conduct satellite communication during the time when satellite communication mode is available, prompting the user to arrange the time for satellite communication reasonably.

[0216] For example, the electronic device displays an eighth indication message, which indicates that the satellite communication mode is available during a first time period.

[0217] Optionally, if the eighth instruction information and the third instruction information are displayed on the same interface, then displaying the eighth instruction information includes displaying the eighth instruction information on the second interface.

[0218] Optionally, the eighth instruction information and the third instruction information are displayed on different interfaces. That is, after the second interface is displayed, a seventh interface can also be displayed, which includes the eighth instruction information.

[0219] The above method can inform users of the remaining service time of the satellite, prompting them to arrange their communication schedules accordingly.

[0220] If the electronic device maintains its current attitude and the remaining service time of the first target satellite reaches zero, the first target satellite may not necessarily be completely unusable. For example, if the elevation angle between the first target satellite and the electronic device is greater than a first angle threshold, the first target satellite may still be able to continue providing service to the electronic device by changing its attitude.

[0221] If the remaining service time of the first target satellite is insufficient under the current user attitude, the user can be guided to follow the satellite through method 700, that is, by adjusting the attitude of the electronic device, so that the first target satellite can continue to provide services to the electronic device.

[0222] Specifically, if the remaining service time of the first target satellite is less than a third time threshold while the electronic device maintains its current attitude, method 700 can be executed. This third time threshold can be pre-configured, indicated to the electronic device by the network device, or determined by the electronic device.

[0223] Figure 7 This is a schematic flowchart of the satellite communication method 700 provided in this application. The method 700 includes the following steps:

[0224] S710, displaying the third interface.

[0225] The third interface includes a satellite representation of the first target satellite, and the display position of the satellite representation of the first target satellite on the third interface is associated with the remaining service time of the first target satellite.

[0226] It should be understood that before displaying the third interface, the electronic device must first determine that the pitch angle between the first target satellite and the electronic device is greater than the first angle threshold before it can guide the user to track the satellite through method 700.

[0227] The satellite representation of the first target satellite, displayed on the third interface, is used to indicate the positional relationship between the electronic device and the first target satellite.

[0228] It should be noted that this third interface is used to guide the user to move the electronic device so that it is aligned with the satellite. Optionally, aligning the electronic device with the satellite includes azimuth alignment and elevation alignment.

[0229] Optionally, this third interface may also be called a satellite search guidance interface, satellite alignment interface, etc., and this application does not limit it in this way.

[0230] The S720 updates the displayed position of the satellite representation of the first target satellite in response to changes in the attitude of the electronic equipment.

[0231] It should be understood that when the user changes the attitude of the electronic device, the positional relationship between the electronic device and the first target satellite in terms of azimuth or elevation will also change, and the electronic device can reflect this positional relationship on the first interface.

[0232] S730 maintains or establishes a communication connection with the first target satellite if the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than the fourth time threshold.

[0233] It should be understood that the fourth time threshold may be pre-configured, indicated by the network device to the electronic device, or determined by the electronic device.

[0234] It should be understood that steps S710 to S730 are essentially re-aligning the first target satellite. The third interface can be regarded as an example of the first interface. The specific implementation of steps S710 to S730 can be referred to steps S310 to S330, which will not be repeated here.

[0235] Method 700 can guide users to track satellites and maintain communication between electronic devices and the primary target satellite.

[0236] Alternatively, if the remaining service time of the first target satellite is 0 when the electronic device maintains its current attitude, the electronic device may not actively guide the user to track the satellite, but may simply indicate the maximum remaining service time of the first target satellite to the user through method 800.

[0237] Figure 8 This is a schematic flowchart of a satellite communication method 800 provided in this application. This method can be executed after step S510 of method 500, and method 800 includes the following steps:

[0238] S810, the fourth indication information is displayed on the second interface. The fourth indication information is used to indicate the maximum remaining service time of the first target satellite. The maximum remaining service time is the maximum time that the first target satellite can provide services to the electronic device when the electronic device changes attitude.

[0239] Optionally, the fourth indication information includes at least one of the following: text information, image information, voice information, or vibration information. For each type of information, the fourth indication information may include one or more of that information.

[0240] For example, the fourth instruction information includes text information, such as displaying "The maximum remaining service time of the current satellite is XX hours" on the second interface.

[0241] For example, the fourth instruction information includes voice information, such as the electronic device's voice prompt "The maximum remaining service time of the current satellite is XX hours".

[0242] For example, the fourth instruction information includes image information.

[0243] For example, the second interface includes a first satellite sub-representation and a second region, where the location of the first satellite sub-representation within the second region is used to indicate the maximum remaining service time.

[0244] by Figure 6 For example, in (b), interface 601 (i.e., an example of the second interface) includes satellite sub-representation 1 (i.e., an example of the first satellite sub-representation) and region 2 (i.e., an example of the second region).

[0245] It should be understood that if the remaining service time under the current electronic device attitude is zero, satellite sub-representation 1 moves to the edge of region 1, i.e., point E. Then, satellite sub-representation 1 can continue to move clockwise in region 2, with an angular velocity of:

[0246]

[0247] It should be understood that as the maximum remaining service time of the first target satellite decreases, satellite icon 1 moves clockwise on the outer edge of region 2, that is, the angle value of ∠NOS decreases. When the maximum remaining service time under the current electronic device attitude is zero, satellite icon 1 moves to the edge of region 2, that is, the position of point N.

[0248] Optionally, if the maximum remaining service time under the current electronic device attitude is zero, such as when satellite icon 1 moves to the position of point N, method 800 may further include step S820.

[0249] S820 displays the third instruction information on the second interface, and the fifth instruction information is used to indicate that the first target satellite is unavailable.

[0250] Optionally, the fifth indication information includes at least one of the following: text information, image information, voice information, or vibration information. For each type of information, the fifth indication information may include one or more of that information.

[0251] For example, the fifth instruction message includes text information, such as "Current satellite unavailable" displayed on the second interface.

[0252] For example, the fifth instruction information includes voice information, such as an electronic device's voice prompt "Current satellite is unavailable".

[0253] For example, the fifth indication information includes image information. For example, such as... Figure 6 As shown in (c), the first satellite sub-representation is hidden on the second interface.

[0254] Method 800 can display the maximum remaining service time of the first target satellite to the user, allowing the user to decide whether to track the satellite, switch satellites, or stop satellite communication.

[0255] It should be understood that after the electronic device establishes a connection with the first target satellite, if it maintains its attitude, it can switch to a new target satellite when the remaining service time of the first target satellite is insufficient, thus avoiding satellite communication interruption.

[0256] Figure 9 This is a schematic flowchart of the satellite communication method 900 provided in this application. The method 900 includes the following steps:

[0257] S910, displaying the fourth interface.

[0258] The fourth interface includes a satellite representation of the second target satellite, and the display position of the satellite representation of the second target satellite on the fourth interface is associated with the remaining service time of the second target satellite.

[0259] The satellite representation of the second target satellite on the fourth interface is used to indicate the positional relationship between the electronic equipment and the second target satellite.

[0260] It should be noted that this fourth interface is used to guide the user to move the electronic device so that it is aligned with the satellite. Optionally, aligning the electronic device with the satellite includes azimuth alignment and elevation alignment.

[0261] Optionally, this fourth interface may also be called a satellite search guidance interface, satellite alignment interface, etc., and this application does not limit it to this.

[0262] S920 updates the displayed position of the satellite representation of the second target satellite in response to changes in the attitude of the electronic equipment.

[0263] It should be understood that when the user changes the attitude of the electronic device, the positional relationship between the electronic device and the second target satellite in terms of azimuth or elevation will also change, and the electronic device can reflect this positional relationship on the fourth interface.

[0264] S930 establishes a communication connection with the second target satellite if the remaining service time of the second target satellite is greater than the second time threshold.

[0265] It should be understood that the second time threshold may be pre-configured, indicated by the network device to the electronic device, or determined by the electronic device.

[0266] It should be understood that steps S910 to S930 are essentially satellite alignment of the second target satellite. This alignment process can refer to the alignment process of the first target satellite in method 300. The specific implementation of steps S910 to S930 can refer to steps S310 to S330, which will not be repeated here.

[0267] Method 900 can guide the alignment of the second target satellite and establish a communication connection between the electronic equipment and the second target satellite.

[0268] Before satellite alignment, this application also provides a satellite communication method 1000, which determines whether to instruct the user to exit the satellite communication mode based on the current waiting time for satellite communication, thereby saving energy consumption of electronic devices.

[0269] Figure 10 This is a schematic flowchart of the satellite communication method 1000 provided in this application. The method 1000 includes the following steps:

[0270] S1010, confirming that after waiting for the first duration, electronic devices can establish a connection with the satellite.

[0271] For example, it can be determined that after waiting for a certain period of time, the electronic device can establish a connection with the first target satellite.

[0272] The ability to establish a connection with a satellite indicates that the set of optional attitudes of the electronic device is not empty. When the electronic device is in an attitude within this set of optional attitudes, it can establish a connection with the satellite.

[0273] Optionally, this set of optional attitudes is determined by the electronic device based on GNSS positioning information and ephemeris information.

[0274] It should be understood that when the first duration is 0, the set of available postures of the electronic device is not empty, and the first interface can be displayed directly.

[0275] It should be understood that when the first duration is greater than 0, the set of possible poses of the electronic device is empty.

[0276] It should be understood that after waiting for the first duration, the electronic device can establish a connection with the satellite, which can be understood as: after waiting for the first duration, the set of possible attitudes of the electronic device is not empty.

[0277] If the first duration is not 0, step S1020 can be executed.

[0278] S1020, if the first duration is less than the fifth time threshold, the fifth interface is displayed; or, if the first duration is greater than the fifth time threshold, the sixth interface is displayed.

[0279] The fifth interface includes a sixth instruction message, and the sixth interface includes a seventh instruction message. The sixth instruction message indicates that a connection can be established with the satellite after waiting for a first duration, and the seventh instruction message indicates that a connection cannot be established with the satellite.

[0280] Optionally, the sixth indication information includes at least one of the following: text information, image information, voice information, or vibration information. For each type of information, the sixth indication information may include one or more of that information.

[0281] For example, the sixth instruction message includes text information, such as "After waiting for the first duration, a connection with the satellite can be established" displayed on the second interface.

[0282] For example, the sixth instruction information includes voice information, such as an electronic device's voice prompt "A connection with the satellite can be established after the first duration."

[0283] For example, the sixth indication information includes image information. For instance, a progress bar indicating the waiting time is displayed on the second interface.

[0284] Optionally, the seventh indication information includes at least one of the following: text information, image information, voice information, or vibration information. For each type of information, the seventh indication information may include one or more of that information.

[0285] For example, the seventh instruction message includes text information, such as "Satellite communication unavailable" displayed on the second interface.

[0286] For example, the seventh instruction information includes voice information, such as an electronic device's voice prompt "Satellite communication unavailable".

[0287] For example, the seventh instruction information includes image information. For instance, a grayscale image is displayed on the second interface.

[0288] The satellite communication method provided by the embodiments of this application has been described in detail above. In the various embodiments of this application, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions between the various embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. The technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments according to their inherent logical relationships.

[0289] The foregoing primarily describes a satellite communication method provided by the embodiments of this application from the perspective of an electronic device. It is understood that, in order to achieve the above functions, the electronic device includes corresponding hardware structures and / or software modules for executing each function. Those skilled in the art should readily recognize that, based on the algorithm steps of the examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein, this application can be implemented in hardware or a combination of hardware and computer software. Whether a function is executed in hardware or by computer software driving hardware depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.

[0290] When each function is divided into different modules (or units) to correspond to its specific function, Figure 11 This illustration shows a schematic diagram of the composition of an electronic device 1100 provided in an embodiment of this application, as shown below. Figure 11 As shown, the electronic device 1100 includes: a display module 1110, a processing module 1120, and a connection module 1130.

[0291] The display module 1110 is used for:

[0292] Display the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, or sixth interface.

[0293] Processing module 1120 is used for:

[0294] In response to changes in the attitude of electronic devices, the displayed position of the satellite representation of the first target satellite is updated.

[0295] Connection module 1130, used for:

[0296] If the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than the first time threshold, a communication connection is established with the first target satellite.

[0297] In some embodiments, the processing module 1120 is further configured to display third indication information on the second interface when the elevation angle between the first target satellite and the user is less than a first angle threshold. The third indication information is used to indicate that the first target satellite is unavailable.

[0298] In some embodiments, when the user is in the signal obstruction area, the processing module 1120 is further configured to update the display position of the satellite representation of the first target satellite in response to the attitude change of the electronic device.

[0299] In some embodiments, the processing module 1120 is specifically configured to: display a partial window of the signal status map on a first interface in response to the user's operation of initiating satellite communication.

[0300] In some embodiments, the connection module 1130 is further configured to maintain or establish a communication connection with the first target satellite if the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than a fourth time threshold.

[0301] In some embodiments, the processing module 1120 is further configured to display fourth indication information on the second interface. The fourth indication information is used to indicate the maximum remaining service time of the first target satellite. The maximum remaining service time is the maximum time that the first target satellite can provide services to the electronic device when the electronic device changes its attitude.

[0302] In some embodiments, the processing module 1120 is further configured to, in step S820, display fifth indication information on the second interface, the fifth indication information being used to indicate that the first target satellite is unavailable.

[0303] In some embodiments, the processing module 1120 is further configured to update the display position of the satellite representation of the second target satellite in response to a change in the attitude of the electronic device.

[0304] In some embodiments, the connection module 1130 is further configured to establish a communication connection with the second target satellite if the remaining service time of the second target satellite is greater than a second time threshold.

[0305] In some embodiments, the processing module 1120 is further configured to determine that after waiting for a first duration, the electronic device can establish a connection with the satellite.

[0306] In some embodiments, the processing module 1120 is further configured to: display a fifth interface if the first duration is less than a fifth time threshold; or display a sixth interface if the first duration is greater than the fifth time threshold.

[0307] This application provides a computer program product that, when run on an electronic device, causes the electronic device to execute the technical solutions described in the above embodiments. Its implementation principle and technical effects are similar to those of the related embodiments described above, and will not be repeated here.

[0308] This application provides a readable storage medium containing instructions that, when executed by an electronic device, cause the electronic device to perform the technical solution described in the above embodiments. The implementation principle and technical effects are similar and will not be repeated here.

[0309] This application provides a chip for executing instructions. When the chip is running, it executes the technical solutions described in the above embodiments. Its implementation principle and technical effects are similar and will not be repeated here.

[0310] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of the embodiments of this application.

[0311] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0312] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0313] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0314] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.

[0315] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, essentially, or the parts that contribute to the prior art, or parts of the technical solutions, can be embodied in the form of software products. These computer software products are stored in a storage medium and include several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.

[0316] The above description is merely a specific implementation of the embodiments of this application, but the protection scope of the embodiments of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in the embodiments of this application should be included within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application. Therefore, the protection scope of the embodiments of this application should be determined by the protection scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for satellite communication, characterized in that, Applied to electronic devices, the method includes: The first interface is displayed, which includes a satellite representation of a first target satellite. The display position of the satellite representation on the first interface is associated with the remaining service time of the first target satellite. In response to changes in the attitude of the electronic device, the displayed position represented by the satellite is updated; If the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than the first time threshold, a communication connection is established with the first target satellite.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first interface includes a first sub-interface and a second sub-interface; wherein, The first sub-interface includes a first satellite sub-representation and a first region of the first target satellite. The first sub-interface is used to indicate the positional relationship between the electronic device and the first target satellite in azimuth angle. The second sub-interface includes a second satellite sub-representation and a second area of ​​the first target satellite. The second sub-interface is used to indicate the positional relationship between the electronic device and the first target satellite in terms of elevation angle. When the first satellite sub-representation is located in the first region and the second satellite sub-representation is located in the second region, it indicates that the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than the first time threshold.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The first interface also includes first instruction information, which is used to instruct the user to change the attitude of the electronic device so that the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than the first time threshold.

4. The method according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first instruction information includes text information.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, After establishing a communication connection with the first target satellite, the method further includes: The second interface displays a second indication information, which indicates the remaining service time of the first target satellite while the electronic device maintains its current attitude.

6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second interface includes second instruction information, including: The second interface includes the first satellite sub-representation and the first area, wherein the first satellite sub-representation is located within the first area, and the position of the first satellite sub-representation within the first area is used to indicate the remaining service time of the first target satellite while the electronic device maintains its current attitude.

7. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The second interface includes second instruction information, including: The second interface includes a third region, the area or angle of which is used to indicate the remaining service time of the first target satellite while the electronic device maintains its current attitude.

8. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, If the remaining service time of the first target satellite is 0 when the electronic device maintains its current attitude, the method further includes: If the elevation angle between the first target satellite and the electronic device is less than a first angle threshold, a third indication message is displayed on the second interface, the third indication message being used to indicate that the first target satellite is unavailable.

9. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, Display third instruction information on the second interface, including: The first satellite sub-representation is hidden on the second interface.

10. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, If the remaining service time of the first target satellite is 0 when the electronic device maintains its current attitude, the method further includes: When the elevation angle between the first target satellite and the electronic device is greater than the first angle threshold, a fourth indication information is displayed on the second interface. The fourth indication information is used to indicate the maximum remaining service time of the first target satellite. The maximum remaining service time is the maximum time that the first target satellite can provide services to the electronic device when the electronic device changes its attitude.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, The fourth instruction information is displayed on the second interface, including: The second interface includes the first satellite sub-representation and the second area, wherein the position of the first satellite sub-representation within the second area is used to indicate the maximum remaining service time.

12. The method according to claim 11, characterized in that, The method further includes: When the maximum remaining service time is 0, the first satellite sub-representation is hidden on the second interface.

13. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, If, while the electronic device maintains its current attitude, the remaining service time of the first target satellite is less than a third time threshold, then the method further includes: When the elevation angle between the first target satellite and the electronic device is greater than a first angle threshold, a third interface is displayed. The third interface includes a satellite representation of the first target satellite, and the display position of the satellite representation of the first target satellite on the third interface is associated with the remaining service time of the first target satellite. In response to a change in the attitude of the electronic device, the display position of the first satellite sub-representation is updated; If the remaining service time of the first target satellite is greater than the fourth time threshold, maintain or establish a communication connection with the first target satellite.

14. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that, If the remaining service time of the first target satellite is 0 when the electronic device maintains its current attitude, the method further includes: The fourth interface is displayed, which includes a satellite representation of the second target satellite. The display position of the satellite representation of the second target satellite on the fourth interface is associated with the remaining service time of the second target satellite. In response to a change in the attitude of the electronic device, the displayed position of the satellite representation of the second target satellite is updated; If the remaining service time of the second target satellite is greater than the second time threshold, a communication connection is established with the second target satellite.

15. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that, Before displaying the first interface, the method further includes: After waiting for a first period of time, the electronic device can establish a connection with the first target satellite; If the first duration is less than the fifth time threshold, then the fifth interface is displayed; or, If the first duration exceeds the fifth time threshold, then the sixth interface is displayed; The fifth interface includes a sixth instruction, and the sixth interface includes a seventh instruction. The sixth instruction indicates that a connection with the satellite can be established after waiting for a first duration, and the seventh instruction indicates that a connection with the satellite cannot be established.

16. The method according to claim 15, characterized in that, The fifth interface includes a sixth instruction, including: The fifth interface includes the first duration.

17. The method according to claim 2, characterized in that, If the display position represented by the first satellite sub-sub is outside the first area, and the display position represented by the second satellite sub-sub-sub is outside the second area, then the first area is displayed in the first color; or, If the display position represented by the first satellite sub-sub is outside the first area, and the display position represented by the second satellite sub-sub-sub is inside the second area, then the first area is displayed in the second color; or, If the display position represented by the first satellite sub-sub is within the first area, and the display position represented by the second satellite sub-sub-sub is outside the second area, then the first area is displayed in the second color; or, If the display position represented by the first satellite sub-sub is within the first area, and the display position represented by the second satellite sub-sub-sub is within the second area, then the first area is displayed in a third color; Wherein, the second color is the same as the first color and the second color is different from the third color; or, the second color is the same as the third color and the second color is different from the first color; or, the first color, the second color, and the third color are all different.

18. An electronic device, characterized in that, It includes one or more processors; one or more memories; said one or more memories storing one or more computer programs, said one or more computer programs including instructions that, when executed by said one or more processors, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 17 to be performed.

19. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, The computer-readable storage medium stores computer instructions that, when executed on a computer, cause the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 17 to be performed.

20. A chip, characterized in that, The chip includes a processor and a communication interface, the communication interface being used to receive signals and transmit the signals to the processor, the processor processing the signals such that the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 17 is executed.

21. A computer program product, characterized in that, When the computer program product is run on a computer, it causes the computer to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 17.

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