Method for connecting a non-terrestrial network controlled aerial vehicle with a ground network

Abstract

A communication method may include, via a satellite in a non-terrestrial network: connecting to a user equipment (UE) mounted on an airborne object to provide a primary link connection between the satellite and the UE; connecting to a first base station in a terrestrial network; controlling the first base station and the UE mounted on the airborne object to connect, thereby providing a first user data connection therebetween; determining that the airborne object and the UE mounted thereon are leaving the cell served by the first base station; selecting a second base station in the terrestrial network to connect to the UE mounted on the airborne object; connecting to the second base station; and controlling the second base station and the UE mounted on the airborne object to connect, thereby providing a second user data connection therebetween.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of non-terrestrial networks, and more particularly to a method for controlling the connection between an aircraft and a terrestrial network via a non-terrestrial network. Background Technology

[0002] Flying objects, such as airplanes, typically need to connect to networks. Non-terrestrial networks are generally more reliable and have a larger coverage area compared to terrestrial networks. However, the throughput of non-terrestrial networks is often insufficient to serve all the needs of flying objects. Terrestrial networks generally have higher throughput than non-terrestrial networks, which is sufficient to serve flying objects. However, compared to non-terrestrial networks, terrestrial networks typically have a smaller coverage area and are less reliable. Furthermore, because flying objects (such as airplanes) typically move at high speeds, terrestrial networks often lack reliable predictive mechanisms for switching the connection of flying objects between different nodes in the terrestrial network. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a communication method, which may include, via a satellite in a non-terrestrial network: connecting to a user equipment (UE) mounted on an in-flight object to provide a primary link connection between the satellite and the UE; connecting to a first base station in a terrestrial network; controlling the first base station and the UE mounted on the in-flight object to connect, thereby providing a first user data connection between the first base station and the UE; determining that the in-flight object and the UE mounted thereon are leaving the cell served by the first base station; selecting a second base station in a terrestrial network to connect to the UE mounted on the in-flight object; connecting to the second base station; and controlling the second base station and the UE mounted on the in-flight object to connect, thereby providing a second user data connection between the second base station and the UE.

[0004] In some embodiments, the determination and selection are based on at least one of the following: the geolocation of the flying object, the distance between the flying object and different base stations in the ground network, information indicating the power of the radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the ground network, and information indicating the quality of the radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the ground network.

[0005] In some embodiments, the method may include sending a handover instruction to a first base station and a second base station.

[0006] In some embodiments, the method may include controlling a first base station to send information about the status of user data transmission between the first base station and the UE to a second base station.

[0007] In some embodiments, the method may include controlling a second base station to prepare to provide a second user data connection.

[0008] In some embodiments, the method may include: controlling a first base station to determine whether untransmitted user data intended to be sent by the first base station to a UE but not yet transmitted exists, and if it is determined that the untransmitted user data exists, controlling the first base station to transmit the untransmitted user data to a second base station, and controlling the second base station to transmit the untransmitted user data to a UE mounted on an aircraft.

[0009] In some embodiments, the method may include sending the geolocation of the flying object to a second base station to allow the second base station to provide directed transmission of user data between the second base station and the UE.

[0010] In some embodiments, the primary link connection, the first user data connection, and the second user data connection include at least one of a radio connection and an Internet Protocol (IP) connection.

[0011] In some embodiments, the method may include connecting a satellite to each of at least one of a first base station and a second base station: either via a direct wireless connection or via a feeder link of a non-terrestrial network connected to each of the first base station and the second base station via a terrestrial line.

[0012] In some embodiments, the method may include controlling a first base station and a UE mounted on an aircraft to terminate the first user data connection when a second user data connection is established.

[0013] In some embodiments, user data is transmitted directly between a first base station and a UE via a first user data connection and between a second base station and a UE via a second user data connection, without the need to transmit user data via satellite.

[0014] Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a non-terrestrial network, which may include a satellite configured to: connect to a user equipment (UE) mounted on an airborne object to provide a primary link connection between the satellite and the UE; connect to a first base station in a terrestrial network; control the first base station and the UE mounted on the airborne object to connect, thereby providing a first user data connection between the first base station and the UE; determine that the airborne object and the UE mounted thereon are leaving the area served by the first base station; select a second base station in the terrestrial network to connect to the UE mounted on the airborne object; connect to the second base station; and control the second base station and the UE mounted on the airborne object to connect, thereby providing a second user data connection between the second base station and the UE.

[0015] Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a terrestrial network, which may include: a first base station configured to: connect to a user equipment (UE) mounted on an airborne object to provide a first user data connection between the first base station and the UE; receive a handover instruction from a satellite in a non-terrestrial network, wherein the handover instruction is sent by the satellite when it is determined that the airborne object is leaving the area served by the first base station; send the handover instruction to the UE mounted on the airborne object; and a second base station configured to: receive a handover instruction from the satellite; prepare to provide a second user data connection between the second base station and the UE mounted on the airborne object based on the handover instruction; receive a connection request from the UE mounted on the airborne object; and connect to the UE mounted on the airborne object based on the connection request to provide the second user data connection.

[0016] In some embodiments, the first base station is configured to send information about the status of user data transmission between the first base station and the UE to the second base station.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first base station is configured to: determine whether there is untransmitted user data intended to be sent by the first base station to the UE but which has not yet been transmitted, and if it is determined that the untransmitted user data exists, then: transmit the untransmitted user data based on a handover instruction; and the second base station is configured to: if the untransmitted user data exists, then: receive the untransmitted user data from the first base station and transmit the untransmitted user data to the UE.

[0018] In some embodiments, the second base station is configured to provide directional transmission of user data between the second base station and the UE based on the geolocation of the flying object.

[0019] In some embodiments, the first user data connection and the second user data connection include at least one of a radio connection and an Internet Protocol (IP) connection.

[0020] In some embodiments, each of at least one of the first and second base stations is connected to a satellite: either via a direct wireless connection or via a feeder link through a non-terrestrial network, the feeder link being connected to each of the first and second base stations via a terrestrial line.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first base station is configured to terminate the first user data connection when a second user data connection is established.

[0022] In some embodiments, user data is transmitted directly between a first base station and a UE via a first user data connection and between a second base station and a UE via a second user data connection, without the need to transmit user data via satellite.

[0023] Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user equipment (UE) mounted on an aircraft, which may be configured to: connect to a satellite in a non-terrestrial network to provide a primary link connection between the satellite and the UE; connect to a first base station in a terrestrial network to provide a first user data connection; receive a handover instruction from the first base station, wherein the handover instruction is sent by the satellite to the first base station when it is determined that the aircraft is leaving the cell served by the first base station; send a connection request to a second base station in the terrestrial network based on the handover instruction; and connect to the second base station when the second base station confirms the connection request to provide a second user data connection.

[0024] In some embodiments, the UE may be configured to transmit at least one of the following to the satellite: the geolocation of the flying object, information indicating the power of radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the terrestrial network, and information indicating the quality of radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the terrestrial network.

[0025] In some embodiments, user data is transmitted directly between a first base station and a UE via a first user data connection and between a second base station and a UE via a second user data connection, without the need to transmit user data via satellite. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To better understand embodiments of the invention and to illustrate how these embodiments can be implemented, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are shown by way of example only, wherein the same numerals denote corresponding elements or portions throughout. In the drawings: Figure 1A and 1B This is a schematic illustration of a system according to some embodiments of the present invention, which is used to control the connection between a user equipment (UE) installed on an aircraft and a terrestrial network (TN) via a non-terrestrial network (NTN); Figure 2 This is an example of a connection setup between a UE on an aircraft and a base station (BS) of a TN, according to some embodiments of the present invention, wherein the connection setup is controlled by a satellite of the NTN; Figure 3 This is an example of a handover setting between a first BS and a second BS of a TN for serving a UE located on an aircraft, according to some embodiments of the present invention, wherein the handover setting is controlled by a satellite of the NTN; Figure 4 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling the connection between a UE and a TN installed on an aircraft via an NTN according to some embodiments of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a block diagram of an exemplary computing device that can be used with embodiments of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a block diagram of an exemplary user device that can be used with embodiments of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a block diagram of an exemplary base station that can be used with embodiments of the present invention; and Figure 8 This is a block diagram of an exemplary satellite that can be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0027] It will be understood that, for the sake of simplicity and clarity, the elements shown in the accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, for clarity, the dimensions of some elements may be exaggerated relative to others. Furthermore, reference numerals may be repeated in the drawings where deemed appropriate to indicate corresponding or similar elements. Detailed Implementation

[0028] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a full understanding of the invention. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, modules, units, and / or circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.

[0029] Embodiments of the present invention can improve the wireless connectivity between user equipment (UE) mounted on an airborne object (such as an airplane, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), and / or any other suitable airborne object) and a network. In operation, a satellite in a non-terrestrial network (NTN) can connect to the UE mounted on the airborne object via a primary link (e.g., a lifeline). The satellite can connect to a first base station (BS) in a terrestrial network (TN). The UE mounted on the airborne object can connect to the first BS via a first user data connection. The first user data connection can include a radio connection, an Internet Protocol (IP) connection, or both. The satellite can determine that the airborne object and the UE mounted thereon are leaving the area served by the first BS (e.g., a cell). The satellite can select a second BS in the TN, to which the UE mounted on the airborne object can connect. The satellite can connect to the second BS. The satellite can control the UE mounted on the airborne object and the second BS to establish a connection, thereby providing a second user data connection. The second user data connection can include a radio connection, an Internet Protocol (IP) connection, or both. Once a second user data connection is established between the UE mounted on the airborne object and the second BS, the satellite can control the UE and / or the first BS to terminate the first user data connection between them. The satellite can maintain a primary link connection with the UE deployed on the airborne object. If the UE deployed on the airborne object disconnects from the TN, the primary link connection can be activated. If the UE deployed on the airborne object connects to the TN, the primary link connection can be deactivated.

[0030] Compared to existing technologies, embodiments of the present invention improve the resilience and maintainability of the connection between a UE mounted on an in-flight vehicle and the network. In embodiments of the present invention, user data is transmitted between the UE mounted on the in-flight vehicle and a base station in the TN, without involving the TNT's satellites. The base stations in the TN have high throughput sufficient to transmit user data to and from the UE mounted on the in-flight vehicle. The selection of base stations in the TN that can connect to the UE mounted on the in-flight vehicle and the handover of UE connections between different base stations in the TN can be controlled (e.g., orchestrated) by the NTN's satellites. The NTN has high coverage areas and reliable prediction capabilities to determine the flight direction and time of the in-flight vehicle, at which time handover of UE connections between different base stations in the TN is required to maintain the UE's connection to the TN. The satellites can maintain a primary link connection with the UE mounted on the in-flight vehicle. Maintaining a primary link connection between the UE mounted on the in-flight vehicle and the satellites ensures that if the UE loses connection to the TN, the connection between the UE and the NTN is maintained.

[0031] Embodiments of the present invention can provide network connectivity for a UE responsible for sending and receiving user data related to the operation of the aircraft (e.g., speed, altitude, geolocation, identification information, and / or any other suitable data related to the operation of the aircraft 90, which needs to be continuously provided to the authorizing party). Embodiments of the present invention can also provide network connectivity for an additional UE (such as a mobile phone or personal computer mounted on the aircraft). The NTN can control (e.g., orchestrate) the connection between the additional UE and the TN, as described herein. The network connectivity of the additional UE can be enabled during the flight of the aircraft. The network connectivity of the additional UE can be disabled during takeoff and landing of the aircraft.

[0032] Reference Figure 1A and 1B These two figures are schematic illustrations of a system 100 according to some embodiments of the present invention, the system 100 being used to control the connection between a user equipment (UE) 120 installed on an aircraft 90 and a terrestrial network (TN) 130 via a non-terrestrial network (NTN) 110.

[0033] NTN 110 may include multiple satellites (e.g., communication satellites), such as satellite 112 (e.g., Figure 1A and 1B (As shown in the diagram). NTN 110 may include geostationary orbit (GEO) satellites, medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellites, low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, very low Earth orbit (VLEO) satellites, and / or any suitable combination thereof. Satellite 112 may be any one of a GEO satellite, MEO satellite, LEO satellite, or VLEO satellite. Satellite 112 may include transponders and associated equipment for communicating with user equipment and / or ground base stations.

[0034] UE 120 may be mounted on the flying object 90. In some embodiments, UE 120 may be the flying object 90. UE 120 may include a terminal that can communicate with satellite 112 of NTN 110 and base stations of TN 130. UE 120 may send and receive user data related to the operation of the flying object 90 (e.g., speed, altitude, geolocation, identification information, and / or any other suitable data related to the operation of the flying object 90 that needs to be continuously provided to the licensor).

[0035] TN 130 may include multiple ground base stations (BS). For example, TN130 may include a first BS 131, a second BS 132, and a third BS 133 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 1A and 1B(As shown in the diagram) and multiple other BSs located at different locations on Earth. Each BS in TN 130 may include a transceiver and associated equipment for communicating with UE 120 within a cell or set of cells served by the respective BS. For example, when the aircraft 90 and the UE 120 mounted thereon are in a first cell 131a served by the first BS 131 and / or move through that cell, the first BS 131 may communicate with UE 120. In the same example, when the aircraft 90 and the UE 120 mounted thereon are in a second cell 132a served by the second BS 132 and / or move through that cell, the second BS 132 may communicate with UE 120. Adjacent cells served by different BSs may partially overlap, for example, to allow handover between BSs without disconnecting the UE from TN 130. For example, the first cell 131a served by the first BS 131 may partially overlap with the second cell 132a served by the second BS 131, and the third cell 133a served by the third BS 133 may partially overlap with the first cell 131a served by the first BS 131 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 1A and 1B (as shown in the image).

[0036] During operation, satellite 112 in NTN 110 can connect to UE 120 located on aircraft 90 via main link connection 121. Main link connection 121 can be a lifeline connection. Main link connection 121 can be maintained while aircraft 90 is in operation. If UE 120 located on aircraft 90 connects to one or more BSs on TN 130, main link connection 121 can be deactivated. If UE 120 located on aircraft 90 disconnects from TN 130, main link connection 121 can be activated. Main link connection 121 can include a radio connection, an Internet Protocol (IP) connection, or both. In main link connection 121, UE 120 can transmit data (such as speed, altitude, geolocation, identification information, and / or any other suitable data related to the operation of aircraft 90, which needs to be continuously provided to the authorizing party) to satellite 112.

[0037] Satellite 112 can be connected to the first BS 131 (e.g., as...) Figure 1A and 1B(As indicated by arrow 131b in the image). When the flying object 90 and the UE 120 mounted thereon are in and / or moving through the first cell 131a (e.g., the area served by the first BS 131), the satellite 112 can control the UE 120 and the first BS 131 to establish a connection, thereby providing a first user data connection 122 (e.g., a wireless first user data connection 122) to transmit user data between them (e.g., as shown below regarding...). Figure 2 (As described). The first user data connection 122 may include a radio connection, an Internet Protocol (IP) connection, or both. User data may be transmitted between the UE 120 located on the aircraft 90 and the first BS 131 without involving satellite 112 and / or without the need to transmit user data via satellite 112. The user data transmitted between the UE 120 located on the aircraft 90 and the first BS 131 may include user data related to the operation of the aircraft 90 (such as the speed, altitude, geolocation, and identification information of the aircraft 90) and / or any other user data, such as downloads, voice calls, streaming broadcasts, and / or any other suitable type of data (e.g., real-time data).

[0038] Satellite 112 can determine that the flying object 90 and the UE 120 mounted on it are leaving or about to leave the first cell 131a served by the first BS 131. Satellite 112 can select a BS in TN 110, to which the UE 120 mounted on the flying object 90 can connect. Satellite 112 can select a BS based on the geolocation of the flying object 90. For example, based on geolocation, satellite 112 can determine the flight direction of the flying object 90 and select a BS that the flying object 90 is moving towards. The UE 120 can send its geolocation to satellite 112. Satellite 112 can select a BS based on the distance between the flying object 90 and different BSs in TN 130. For example, satellite 112 can select a BS that is closer to the flying object 90 than other BSs in TN 130. The distance can be calculated by satellite 112 based on the known geolocation of the BS in TN 130 and the geolocation of the flying object 90 and the UE 120 mounted on it. Satellite 112 can select a BS based on information indicating the power of radio signals transmitted between different BSs in TN 130 and UE 120 located on the aircraft 90. For example, Satellite 112 can select a BS whose radio signals, when received at UE 120, have a higher power than radio signals received from other BSs in TN 130. UE 120 can transmit information indicating the power of the radio signals to Satellite 112. Satellite 112 can also select a BS based on information indicating the quality of radio signals transmitted between different BSs in TN 130 and UE 120 located on the aircraft 90. For example, Satellite 112 can select a BS whose radio signals, when received at UE 120, have a higher quality than radio signals received from other BSs in TN 130. UE 120 can transmit information indicating the quality of the radio signals to Satellite 112. Figure 1A and 1B In the example, satellite 112 selects the second BS 132.

[0039] Satellite 112 can be connected to a second BS 132 (e.g., as...) Figure 1A and 1B (As shown by arrow 132b in the image). Satellite 112 can send handover instructions to the first BS 131 and the second BS 132 (e.g., as shown below regarding...). Figure 3(As described). Based on the handover instructions, the second BS 132 can allocate the resources required to transmit user data between the second BS 132 and the UE 120 located in the aircraft 90. The handover instructions may include the geolocation and / or flight path of the aircraft 90. The handover instructions may include identification information and / or authentication information and / or capabilities (e.g., frequency bands) of the UE 120 and / or the second BS 132. The handover instructions may include timestamp information indicating when a handover is to be performed. Based on the geolocation of the aircraft 90, the second BS 132 can provide directed transmission and reception of user data between the second BS 132 and the UE 120 located on the aircraft 90. Based on the handover instructions, the first BS 131 can send information indicating the status of user data transmission between the first BS 131 and the UE 120 located on the aircraft 90 to the second BS 132. The first BS 131 can determine whether untransmitted user data intended to be transmitted by the first BS 131 to the UE 120 but not yet transmitted exists. If it is determined that there is unsent data, the first BS 131 can send the unsent data to the second BS 132.

[0040] Satellite 112 can control the UE 120 and the second BS mounted on the aircraft to establish a connection, thereby providing a second user data connection 123 (e.g., a wireless second user data connection 123) for transmitting user data between them (e.g., as described below). Figure 2 (As described). User data can be transmitted between the UE 120, located on the aircraft 90, and the second BS 132 without involving the satellite 112 and / or without requiring the transmission of user data via the satellite 112. The second BS 132 can send untransmitted user data to the UE 120 located on the aircraft 90 (e.g., if untransmitted data exists, as described above), which was intended to be sent to the UE 120 by the first BS 131 and has not yet been transmitted. The second user data connection 123 may include a radio connection, an Internet Protocol (IP) connection, or both. Once the second user data connection 123 is established between the UE 120 located on the aircraft 90 and the second BS 132, the satellite 112 can control the UE 120 and / or the first BS 131 to terminate the first user data connection 122.

[0041] Satellite 112 can be connected via direct wireless connection (e.g., as...) Figure 1A (as shown) or via feeder link 114 of NTN 110 (e.g., as shown) Figure 1B(As shown) It is connected to the first BS 131 and the second BS 132 of TN 130 and communicates with the first BS 131 and the second BS 132 of TN 130. The feeder link 114 of NTN 110 can be connected to the BS of TN 130 using a wire.

[0042] Reference Figure 2 This is an example of a connection setup 200 between a user equipment (UE) 201 mounted on an aircraft and a base station (BS) 202 of a TN, according to some embodiments of the present invention, wherein the connection setup 200 is controlled by a satellite 203 of the NTN.

[0043] exist Figure 2 In this context, UE 201 can be UE 120 mounted on aircraft 90, BS 202 can be either the first BS 131 or the second BS 132 of TN 130, satellite 203 can be satellite 112 of NTN 110, and ground 204 can be feeder link 114 and / or any other suitable ground core component of NTN 110, as described above. Figure 1A and 1B As described. Time in Figure 2 The middle can be seen as progressing "downward".

[0044] In operation 210, the UE 201 mounted on the aircraft can send a setup request to satellite 203 of the NTN. The setup request may include information about the UE's capabilities (such as the frequency band used), UE authentication data, and / or any other suitable information required to connect the UE 201 to a BS in the TN.

[0045] Satellite 203 can select BS 202, and UE 201 installed on the aircraft can connect to BS 202 (e.g., based on geolocation, distance, radio signal power information and / or radio signal quality information, as mentioned above). Figure 1A and 1B (as described).

[0046] In operation 212, satellite 203 may forward a configuration request to ground 204. In operation 214, ground 204 may send a configuration to satellite 203. For example, the configuration may include the frequency band to be used and / or the configuration of UE 201 (e.g., the number of receivers and / or transmitters, bandwidth portion (BWP), expected UE service, UE frequency band combination, and / or the frequency bands of satellite 203 supported by UE 201). In operation 216, satellite 203 configures BS 202 among multiple BSs of the TN as the serving BS based on the configuration.

[0047] In operation 218, BS 202 can send a configuration request to ground 204 using configuration information from the satellite. In operation 220, ground 204 can send an acknowledgment that the reverse link has been configured to BS 202.

[0048] In operation 222, satellite 203 may send an acknowledgment of the configuration of BS 202 to UE 201 mounted on the aircraft. The acknowledgment may include the BS configuration of BS 202. For example, the BS configuration may include the frequency band to be used, the identification information of BS 202, access parameters, and / or any other suitable information required to connect UE 201 to BS 202.

[0049] In operation 224, UE 201, mounted on the aircraft, can use BS configuration to send a connection request (e.g., short setup) to BS 202. In operation 226, BS 202 can send an acknowledgment of the established connection to UE 201 mounted on the aircraft.

[0050] In operation 228, the UE 201 and BS 202 set on the aircraft and the ground 204 can be connected for user data transmission without involving satellite 203 and / or without needing to transmit user data through satellite 203.

[0051] Reference Figure 3 This is an example of a handover setting 300 between a first BS 302 and a second BS 303 of a TN for serving a user equipment (UE) 301 located on an aircraft, according to some embodiments of the present invention. The handover setting 300 is controlled by a satellite 304 of the NTN.

[0052] exist Figure 3 In this context, UE 301 can be UE 120 mounted on aircraft 90, first BS 302 can be first BS 131, second BS 303 can be second BS 132 of TN 130, satellite 304 can be satellite 112 of NTN 110, and ground 305 can be feeder link 114 and / or any other suitable ground core component of NTN 110, as described above. Figure 1A and 1B As described. Time in Figure 3 The middle can be seen as progressing "downward".

[0053] In operation 310, UE 301 and first BS 302 (located on the flying object) are installed on the flying object. Figure 3 The satellite 304 (designated "BS1") and ground 305 can be connected for user data transmission without involving satellite 304 and / or without needing to transmit user data via satellite 304 (e.g., as mentioned above regarding...). Figure 1Aand 1B as well as Figure 2 (as described).

[0054] As the flying object moves, the distance between the first BS 302 and the UE 301 mounted on the flying object can become greater than the distance between the UE 301 and the second BS 303. This can be determined based on the geographic location of the flying object, the satellite-calculated distance between the UE 301 and the BSs 302, 303, and / or information regarding the power and / or quality of radio signal transmission between the UE 301 and the BSs 302, 303 (e.g., as mentioned above regarding...). Figure 1A and 1B (As described). For example, in operation 312, information regarding the power and / or quality of radio signal transmission between UE 301 and BS 302, 303 may be transmitted by UE 301 (e.g., via the main link connection) and / or by BS 302 to satellite 304.

[0055] When it is determined that UE 301, installed on the aircraft, needs to connect to a BS other than the first BS 302, satellite 304 can select a second BS 303, and UE 301 can connect to that second BS 303 (e.g., based on geolocation, distance, radio signal power information, and / or radio signal quality information, as mentioned above regarding...). Figure 1A and 1B (As described). In operation 314, satellite 304 can send a handover instruction to first BS 302 and second BS 304. In operation 316, first BS 302 (which is connected to UE 301 at this time) can forward the handover instruction to UE 301. The handover instruction may include the geolocation of the flying object, the flight path of the flying object, the identification information and / or authentication information of UE 301 and / or second BS 303, the capabilities of UE 301 and / or second BS 303 (e.g., the frequency band to be used), and / or timestamp information indicating when a handover should be performed.

[0056] In operation 318, the first BS 302 (connected to the UE 301 at this time) can send information indicating the user data transmission status between the first BS 302 and the UE 301 located on the flying object to the second BS 303, and further send unsent user data, which was intended to be sent by the first BS 302 to the UE 301 but has not yet been sent, to the second BS 303. The transmission of user data between the first BS 302 and the second BS 303 is performed without involving the satellite 304 and / or without requiring the transmission of user data via the satellite 304, as... Figure 3 As indicated in operation 320.

[0057] In operation 322, the UE 301 mounted on the aircraft can send a connection request to the second BS 303 (e.g., as mentioned above regarding...). Figure 2 (as described).

[0058] In operation 324, the second BS2 can send confirmation of the completion of the handover between the first BS 302 and the second BS 303 to the UE 301 installed on the aircraft. In operation 326, the second BS2 303 can send confirmation of the completion of the handover between the first BS 302 and the second BS 303 to the satellite 304.

[0059] In operation 328, the UE 301, the second BS 303, and the ground 305 located on the aircraft can be connected for user data transmission without involving satellite 304 and / or without needing to transmit user data via satellite 304.

[0060] Reference Figure 4 This is a flowchart of a method for controlling the connection between a UE and a TN on an aircraft via an NTN according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0061] The following is about Figure 4 The described operations can be performed by the devices of system 100, as mentioned above. Figure 1A and 1B As described.

[0062] In operation 402, satellites in NTN (e.g., satellite 112 in NTN 110, as mentioned above) Figure 1A and 1B (As described) can be connected via a main link (e.g., such as main link connection 121, as mentioned above). Figure 1A and 1B (As described) Connected to a UE installed on an aircraft (e.g., UE 120 installed on aircraft 90, as described above regarding) Figure 1A and 1B (As described). The primary link connection can be maintained while the aircraft is in operation. If the UE on the aircraft is connected to one or more BSs of the TN, the primary link connection can be deactivated. If the UE on the aircraft is disconnected from the TN, the primary link connection can be activated. The primary link connection can include a radio connection, an Internet Protocol (IP) connection, or both.

[0063] In operation 404, the satellite can be connected to the first BS in the TN (e.g., first BS 131, as mentioned above). Figure 1A and 1B (as described) (e.g., regarding Figure 1A and 1B, Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 (as described).

[0064] In operation 406, the UE and the first BS can be connected via satellite control, thereby providing a first user data connection (e.g., first user data connection 122, as mentioned above). Figure 1A and 1B (as described above), to send user data between them (e.g., as mentioned above). Figure 1A and 1B , Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 (As described above). The first user data connection may include a radio connection, an Internet Protocol (IP) connection, or both. User data can be transmitted between the UE located on the aircraft and the first BS without involving satellites and / or without the need to transmit user data via satellite (e.g., as described above regarding...). Figure 1A and 1B , Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 (as described).

[0065] In operation 408, it can be determined via satellite that the flying object and the UE mounted on it are leaving or about to leave the cell served by the first BS.

[0066] In operation 410, a second BS (e.g., the second BS, as mentioned above) can be connected in the TN to a UE installed on the aircraft. Figure 1A and 1B The described) can be selected by the satellite (e.g., as per the information about Figure 1A and 1B , Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 (As described above). The BS can be selected based on the geographic location of the flying object, the calculated distance between the UE and different BSs in the TN, and / or information about the power and / or quality of radio signal transmission between the UE and different BSs in the TN (e.g., as mentioned above regarding...). Figure 1A and 1B (as described).

[0067] In operation 412, the satellite can be connected to a second BS in the TN (e.g., second BS 132, as mentioned above). Figure 1A and 1B (as described) (e.g., for example, as about Figure 1A and 1B , Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 (as described).

[0068] Handover instructions can be sent by satellite to the first BS and the second BS (for example, as shown below). Figure 3 (As described). Based on the handover instructions, the second BS can allocate the resources required to transmit user data between the second BS and the UE installed in the airborne object. The handover instructions may include the geographic location of the airborne object. Based on the geographic location of the airborne object, directional transmission and reception of user data can be provided between the second BS and the UE installed in the airborne object. Information indicating the status of user data transmission between the first BS and the UE installed in the airborne object can be sent by the first BS to the second BS. The first BS can determine whether untransmitted user data intended to be sent by the first BS to the UE but not yet transmitted exists. If it is determined that untransmitted user data exists, the untransmitted user data can be sent by the first BS to the second BS for further transmission to the UE by the second BS.

[0069] In operation 414, the UE and the second BS mounted on the flying object can be connected by satellite control, thereby providing a second user data connection (e.g., second user data connection 123, as mentioned above). Figure 1A and 1B (as described above), to send user data between them (e.g., as mentioned above). Figure 1A and 1B , Figure 2 as well as Figure 3 (As described). The second user data connection may include a radio connection, an Internet Protocol (IP) connection, or both. User data can be transmitted between the UE located on the aircraft and the second BS without involving satellite and / or without the need to transmit user data via satellite. Untransmitted user data intended to be sent by the first BS to the UE but not transmitted can be sent by the second BS to the UE located on the aircraft (e.g., if the untransmitted user data exists, as described above).

[0070] Once a second user data connection is established between the UE installed on the aircraft and the second BS, the satellite can control the UE and / or the first BS to terminate the first user data connection.

[0071] Satellites can connect wirelessly (e.g., as mentioned above). Figure 1A (as described) or via a feeder link through the NTN (e.g., as mentioned above). Figure 1B (As described) Connects to and communicates with the first and second BS in the TN. The NTN feeder link can be connected to the TN BS using a wire.

[0072] Now refer to Figure 5 This is a block diagram of an exemplary computing device 500 that can be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0073] The computing device 500 may include a controller or processor 505, which may be, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a chip or any suitable computing or computing device, an operating system 515, a memory 520, a storage device 530, an input device 535, and an output device 540.

[0074] Operating system 515 may be or may include any code segment designed and / or configured to perform tasks involving coordinating, scheduling, arbitrating, supervising, controlling, or otherwise managing the operation of computing device 500, such as scheduling the execution of programs. Memory 520 may be or may include, for example, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous DRAM (SD-RAM), double data rate (DDR) memory chips, flash memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, cache memory, buffers, short-term memory cells, long-term memory cells, or other suitable memory cells or storage units. Memory 520 may be or may include multiple (possibly different) memory cells. Memory 520 may store, for example, instructions for performing methods (e.g., code 525) and / or data, such as user responses, interrupts, etc.

[0075] Executable code 525 can be any executable code, such as an application, program, process, task, or script. Executable code 525 can be executed by controller 505 under the control of operating system 515. In some embodiments, more than one computing device 500 or components of device 500 can be used for the various functions described herein. One or more computing devices 500 or components of computing device 500 can be used for the various modules and functions described herein. Devices including components similar to or different from those included in computing device 500 can be used and can be connected to a network and used as a system. One or more processors 505 can be configured to perform embodiments of the invention by, for example, executing software or code. Storage device 530 can be or may include, for example, a hard disk drive, floppy disk drive, optical disc (CD) drive, recordable CD (CD-R) drive, universal serial bus (USB) device, or other suitable removable and / or fixed storage unit. In some embodiments, Figure 5 Some of the components shown can be omitted.

[0076] Input device 535 may be or may include a mouse, keyboard, touchscreen, touchpad, or any suitable input device. It will be appreciated that any suitable number of input devices may be operatively connected to computing device 500, as shown in box 535. Output device 540 may include one or more displays, speakers, and / or any other suitable output devices. It will be appreciated that any suitable number of output devices may be operatively connected to computing device 500, as shown in box 540. Any suitable input / output (I / O) devices may be connected to computing device 500, such as wired or wireless network interface cards (NICs), modems, printers or fax machines, universal serial bus (USB) devices, or external hard drives, which may be included in input device 535 and / or output device 540.

[0077] Embodiments of the present invention may include one or more articles (e.g., memory 520 or storage device 530), such as a computer or processor nontransitory readable medium or a computer or processor nontransitory storage medium, such as, for example, a memory, a hard disk drive, or a USB flash drive, which encode, include, or store instructions, such as computer executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor or controller, perform the methods disclosed herein.

[0078] Now refer to Figure 6 This is a block diagram of an exemplary user equipment (UE) 600 that can be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0079] UE 600 may include a radio interface 605. Radio interface 605 may include an antenna, a transceiver, and / or any other suitable components that allow communication between UE 600 and a telecommunications network.

[0080] UE 600 may include a user identity module 610. The user identity module 610 may store user-specific information, such as the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI), and may be used for authentication and authorization on telecommunications networks.

[0081] UE 600 may include mobile device 615. Mobile device 615 may include processor, memory, display, and user interface.

[0082] UE 600 may include battery 620. Battery 620 can provide power to UE 600, thereby allowing it to operate without being connected to an external power source.

[0083] UE 600 may include operating system 625. Operating system 625 may manage the resources of UE 600 and / or provide a platform for running applications.

[0084] UE 600 may include application software 630. Application software 630 may be user-installed applications and system applications running on UE 600, providing various functions for UE 600.

[0085] UE 600 may include a user interface 635. UE 635 may include a touchscreen, buttons, a display, and / or any other suitable components that allow a user to interact with the UE.

[0086] UE 600 may include sensor 640. Sensor 640 may include an accelerometer, gyroscope, GPS and ambient light sensor, camera and / or any other suitable sensor known in the art. Sensor 640 may allow features such as orientation detection, location-based services and any other suitable features known in the art.

[0087] UE 600 may include connectivity module 645. Connectivity module 645 may support various connectivity options, including cellular networks (e.g., 4G / LTE, 5G), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC (Near Field Communication), thereby allowing UE 600 to connect to other devices and telecommunications networks.

[0088] UE 600 may include a security component 650. Security component 650 is responsible for ensuring the security and privacy of user data and communications. Security component 650 may include encryption / decryption hardware and software, as well as security features for protection against malware and unauthorized access.

[0089] UE 600 may include memory 655 (e.g., RAM) for running applications. UE 600 may include storage device 660 (e.g., internal storage device or removable SD card) and storage device (e.g., internal storage device or removable SD card) for storing data and applications.

[0090] UE 600 may include a charging port 665 for charging battery 620.

[0091] In some embodiments, Figure 6 Some components shown may be omitted. In some embodiments, UE600 may include additional components conforming to standards specifications (e.g., 3GPP specifications), which... Figure 6 Not shown in the image.

[0092] Now refer to Figure 7 This is a block diagram of an exemplary base station (BS) 700 that can be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0093] BS 700 may include a radio transceiver 705. The radio transceiver 705 can transmit and receive radio signals.

[0094] BS 700 may include antenna system 710. Antenna system 710 may include one or more antennas that can transmit and receive signals through the air in a specific direction and pattern. For example, antenna system 710 may include advanced antenna technologies such as multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) and beamforming, which can improve network performance and coverage.

[0095] BS 700 may include a baseband processing unit 715. The baseband processing unit 715 can handle baseband processing of communication signals. The baseband processing unit 715 can perform tasks such as modulation / demodulation, encoding / decoding, error correction, and channel allocation.

[0096] BS 700 may include a digital signal processing unit 720. The digital signal processing unit 720 can process and manipulate digital signals within the baseband processing unit 715. The digital signal processing unit 720 can perform tasks such as signal processing, beamforming, interference cancellation, and MIMO processing.

[0097] The BS 700 may include a backhaul connection 725. The backhaul connection 725 can provide high-capacity backhaul connectivity to connect the BS 700 to the core network. The backhaul connection 725 may include a wired connection, such as a fiber optic or microwave link.

[0098] The BS 700 may include a power supply unit 730. The power supply unit 730 can provide power to the components of the BS 700 to ensure continuous operation.

[0099] The BS 700 may include a control and management unit 735. The control and management unit 735 is responsible for controlling and managing the operation of the BS 700. The control and management unit 735 can handle tasks such as network configuration, software updates, and fault management.

[0100] The BS 700 may include a cooling system 740. The cooling system 740 may be a fan, radiator, and / or liquid cooling system, which can keep the BS 700's equipment within its operating temperature range.

[0101] BS 700 may include a timing and synchronization unit 745. The timing and synchronization unit 745 can perform timing and synchronization to maintain the integrity of the communication network, such as ensuring that all base stations in the network are synchronized with a common timing reference.

[0102] The BS 700 may include a security and encryption unit 750. The security and encryption unit 750 can perform tasks such as encrypting user data and authenticating UEs to protect the network from unauthorized access and malicious attacks.

[0103] The BS 700 may include a fault detection and alarm unit 755. The fault detection and alarm unit 755 can monitor device health and issue alerts in the event of hardware or software problems, which is crucial for maintaining network reliability and availability.

[0104] In some embodiments, Figure 7 Some components shown may be omitted. In some embodiments, the BS700 may include additional components conforming to standards specifications (e.g., 3GPP specifications), which... Figure 7 Not shown in the image.

[0105] Now refer to Figure 8 This is a block diagram of an exemplary satellite 800 that can be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0106] Satellite 800 may include a transponder 805. Transponder 805 may receive signals from a base station and / or user equipment. Transponder 805 may transmit signals to the base station and / or user equipment. Transponder 805 may be configured for different frequency bands and services. Transponder 805 may include modulation and demodulation equipment for encoding and decoding the transmitted data. Satellite 800 may include an antenna 810 for receiving and transmitting signals.

[0107] Satellite 800 may include a command and control system 815. The command and control system 815 can maintain the orbital position, attitude, and health of satellite 800. The command and control system 815 can handle adjustments to the transponder 805, power level, and other settings of satellite 800.

[0108] Satellite 800 may include a processing unit 820. The processing unit 820 can manage communication protocols, signal routing, efficiently process and forward data between uplink and downlink, and other data-related functions.

[0109] Satellite 800 may include a power system 825. Power system 825 may include, for example, solar panels for generating electricity from sunlight. This electricity may be stored in onboard batteries and used in systems that operate the satellite, including communication payloads (e.g., transponder 805). Power system 825 may include regulators and converters to ensure a stable power supply.

[0110] In some embodiments, Figure 8Some of the components shown may be omitted. In some embodiments, satellite 800 may include additional components that... Figure 8 Not shown in the diagram, but may be necessary to support communication between the satellite and base stations and / or user equipment.

[0111] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the invention. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be considered illustrative in all respects and not limiting of the invention as described herein. Consequently, the scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims, and not by the foregoing description, and therefore all variations within the meaning and equivalence of the claims are intended to be encompassed therein.

[0112] Numerous specific details have been set forth in the above detailed description in order to provide an understanding of the invention. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, modules, units, and / or circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention. Some features or elements described with respect to one embodiment may be combined with features or elements described with respect to other embodiments.

[0113] While embodiments of the invention are not limited to this aspect, discussions using terms such as “processing,” “calculating,” “calculating,” “determining,” “establishing,” “analyzing,” and “checking” can refer to one or more operations and / or processes of a computer, computing platform, computing system, or other electronic computing device that manipulate data represented as physical (e.g., electronic) quantities in computer registers and / or memory and / or transform them into other information in computer registers and / or memory or other non-transitory storage media that can store instructions for performing the operations and / or processes, or other data similarly represented as physical quantities.

[0114] While embodiments of the invention are not limited to this aspect, the terms "majority" and "multiple" as used herein may include, for example, "a plurality" or "two or more". Throughout the specification, the terms "majority" and "multiple" may be used to describe two or more components, devices, elements, units, parameters, etc. The set of terms used herein may include one or more items. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, the method embodiments described herein are not limited to a particular order or sequence. Additionally, some of the described method embodiments or elements thereof may occur or be performed simultaneously, at the same point in time, or concurrently.

Claims

1. A communication method, the method comprising: via a satellite in a non-terrestrial network: Connect to the user equipment (UE) mounted on the aircraft to provide a primary link connection between the satellite and the UE; Connect to the first base station in the terrestrial network; Control the first base station and the UE installed on the flying object to connect, thereby providing a first user data connection between the first base station and the UE; It is determined that the flying object and the UE mounted on it are leaving the cell served by the first base station; Select a second base station in the ground network to connect to the UE installed on the aircraft; Connect to the second base station; and Control the second base station and the UE installed on the flying object to connect, thereby providing a second user data connection between the second base station and the UE.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the determination and the selection are based on at least one of the following: - The geographic location of the flying object. - The distance between the flying object and different base stations in the ground network. - Information indicating the power of radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the terrestrial network, and - Information indicating the quality of radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the terrestrial network.

3. The method according to any one of claims 1-2, comprising sending a handover instruction to the first base station and the second base station.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1-3, controlling the first base station to send information about the status of user data transmission between the first base station and the UE to the second base station.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1-4, controlling the second base station to prepare to provide the second user data connection.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1-5, comprising: The first base station is controlled to determine whether untransmitted user data intended to be sent by the first base station to the UE but which has not yet been transmitted exists, and If it is determined that the unsent user data exists, then: Control the first base station to send untransmitted user data to the second base station, and Control the second base station to send the untransmitted user data to the UE installed on the aircraft.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1-6, comprising sending the geolocation of the flying object to the second base station to allow the second base station to provide directed transmission of user data between the second base station and the UE.

8. The method according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the main link connection, the first user data connection, and the second user data connection include at least one of a radio connection and an Internet Protocol (IP) connection.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1-8, wherein the satellite is connected to each of at least one of the first base station and the second base station: - via direct wireless connection, or - The feeder link of the non-terrestrial network is connected to each of the first base station and the second base station via a terrestrial line.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1-9, comprising controlling the first base station and the UE disposed on the aircraft to terminate the first user data connection when the second user data connection is established.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein user data is directly transmitted between the first base station and the UE via the first user data connection, and directly transmitted between the second base station and the UE via the second user data connection, without transmitting the user data via the satellite.

12. A non-terrestrial network comprising a satellite, said satellite being used for: Connect to the user equipment (UE) mounted on the aircraft to provide a primary link connection between the satellite and the UE; Connect to the first base station in the terrestrial network; Control the first base station and the UE installed on the flying object to connect, thereby providing a first user data connection between the first base station and the UE; It is determined that the flying object and the UE mounted on it are leaving the area served by the first base station; Select a second base station in the ground network to connect to the UE installed on the aircraft; Connect to the second base station; and Control the second base station and the UE installed on the flying object to connect, thereby providing a second user data connection between the second base station and the UE.

13. A terrestrial network, comprising: The first base station is configured as follows: Connect to the user equipment (UE) mounted on the aircraft to provide a first user data connection between the first base station and the UE. The system receives a handover instruction from a satellite in a non-terrestrial network. When it is determined that the flying object is leaving the area served by the first base station, the handover instruction is sent by the satellite. The handover command is sent to the UE installed on the aircraft. as well as The second base station is configured as follows: Receive the handover command from the satellite. Based on the handover instruction, a second user data connection is prepared to be provided between the second base station and the UE installed on the flying object. Receive a connection request from the UE installed on the aircraft. Based on the connection request, a connection is made to the UE installed on the aircraft to provide the second user data connection.

14. The terrestrial network of claim 13, wherein the first base station is configured to send information about the status of user data transmission between the first base station and the UE to the second base station.

15. The terrestrial network according to any one of claims 13-14, The first base station is configured as follows: Determine whether untransmitted user data intended to be sent by the first base station to the UE but not yet transmitted exists, and If it is determined that the unsent user data exists, then: Based on the handover instruction, the unsent user data is sent; and The second base station is configured as follows: If the unsent user data exists, then: Receive the untransmitted user data from the first base station, and Send the unsent user data to the UE.

16. The terrestrial network according to any one of claims 13-15, wherein the second base station is configured to provide directional transmission of user data between the second base station and the UE based on the geolocation of the flying object.

17. The terrestrial network according to any one of claims 13-16, wherein the first user data connection and the second user data connection comprise at least one of a radio connection and an Internet Protocol (IP) connection.

18. The terrestrial network according to any one of claims 13-17, wherein each of at least one of the first base station and the second base station is connected to the satellite: - via direct wireless connection, or - The feeder link of the non-terrestrial network is connected to each of the first base station and the second base station via a terrestrial line.

19. The terrestrial network according to any one of claims 13-18, wherein the first base station is configured to terminate the first user data connection when the second user data connection is established.

20. The terrestrial network according to any one of claims 13-19, wherein user data is directly transmitted between the first base station and the UE via the first user data connection, and directly transmitted between the second base station and the UE via the second user data connection, without transmitting the user data via the satellite.

21. A user equipment (UE) installed on an aircraft, the user equipment being configured to: Connect to a satellite in a non-terrestrial network to provide a primary link connection between the satellite and the UE; Connect to the first base station in the terrestrial network to provide the first user data connection; The satellite receives a handover command from the first base station. When it is determined that the flying object is leaving the cell served by the first base station, the handover command is sent by the satellite to the first base station. Based on the handover instruction, the connection request is sent to the second base station in the terrestrial network; When the connection request is confirmed by the second base station, the system connects to the second base station to provide a second user data connection.

22. The UE of claim 21, configured to transmit at least one of the following to the satellite: - The geographic location of the flying object. - Information indicating the power of radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the terrestrial network, and - Information indicating the quality of radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the terrestrial network.

23. The UE according to any one of claims 21-22, wherein user data is directly transmitted between the first base station and the UE via the first user data connection, and is directly transmitted between the second base station and the UE via the second user data connection, without transmitting the user data via the satellite.

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