Method of a non-terrestrial network controlled connection of a flying object to a terrestrial network

Abstract

A method of communication, which may include, by a satellite in a non-terrestrial network: connecting to a user equipment (UE) disposed on a flying 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 disposed on the flying object to connect to provide a first user data connection therebetween; determining that the flying object and the UE disposed thereon are leaving a cell served by the first base station; selecting a second base station in the terrestrial network to connect to the UE disposed on the flying object; connecting to the second base station; and controlling the second base station and the UE disposed on the flying object to connect to provide a second user data connection therebetween.

Description

METHOD OF A NON-TERRESTRIAL NETWORK CONTROLLEDCONNECTION OF A FLYING OBJECT TO A TERRESTRIAL NETWORKFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of non-terrestrial networks, and more particularly, to a method of controlling, by a non-terrestrial network, a connection of a flying object to a terrestrial network.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Flying objects, such as airplanes, typically require a connection to a network. Nonterrestrial networks are typically more reliable and have greater coverage area than terrestrial networks. However, non-terrestrial networks typically have throughput that is not sufficient for serving all needs of flying objects. Terrestrial networks typically have greater throughput than nonterrestrial networks, which is sufficient for serving flying objects. However, terrestrial networks typically have smaller coverage area and are less reliable than non-terrestrial networks. Also, terrestrial networks typically lack reliable prediction means for switching connection of flying objects between different nodes in the terrestrial networks due to high speeds at which flying objects, such as airplanes, typically move.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

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

[0004] In some embodiments, the determining and the selecting is based on at least one of: a geolocation of the flying object, distances between the flying object and different base stations in the terrestrial network, information indicative of a power of radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the terrestrial network, and information indicative of a quality of radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the terrestrial network.

[0005] In some embodiments, the method may include transmitting handover instructions to the first base station and the second base station.

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

[0007] In some embodiments, the method may include controlling the second based station to prepare for providing the second user data connection.

[0008] In some embodiments, the method may include: controlling the first base station to determine whether or not non-transmitted user data which is intended to be transmitted by the first base station to the UE and has not been transmitted exists, and if it is determined that the nontransmitted user data exists: controlling the first base station to transmit to the second base station non-transmitted user data, and controlling the second base station to transmit the non-transmitted user data to the UE disposed on the flying object.

[0009] In some embodiments, the method may include transmitting to the second base station a geolocation of the flying object to allow the second base station to provide a directional 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 the satellite is connected to each of at least one of the first base station and the second base station: in a direct wireless connection, or via a feeder link of the non-terrestrial network, the feeder link being connected to each of the first base station and the second base station via a landline.

[0012] In some embodiments, the method may include controlling the first base station and the UE disposed on the flying object to terminate the first user data connection upon establishment of the second user data connection.

[0013] In some embodiments, 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 passing the user data via the satellite.

[0014] Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a non-terrestrial network which may include a satellite, the satellite may be configured to: connect to a user equipment (UE) disposed on a flying 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 disposed on the flying object to connect to provide a first user data connection between the first base station and the UE; determine that the flying object and the UE disposed thereon are leaving an area served by the first base station; select a second base station in the terrestrial network to connect to the UE disposed on the flying object; connect to the second base station; and control the second base station and the UE disposed on the flying object to connect to provide 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) disposed on a flying object to provide a first user data connection between the first base station and the UE, receive handover instructions from a satellite in a non-terrestrial network, the handover instructions being transmitted by the satellite upon determination that the flying object is leaving an area served by the first base station; transmit the handover instructions to the UE disposed on the flying object; and a second base station configured to: receive the handover instructions from the satellite, based on the handover instructions, prepare for providing a second user data connection between the second base station and the UE disposed on the flying object, receive a connection request from the UE disposed on the flying object, based on the connection request, connect to the UE disposed on the flying object to provide the second user data connection.

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

[0017] In some embodiments, the first base station is configured to: determine whether or not nontransmitted user data which is intended to be transmitted by the first base station to the UE and has not been transmitted exists, and if it is determined that the non-transmitted user data exist: based on the handover instructions, transmit the non-transmitted user data; and the second base station isconfigured to: if the non-transmitted user data exist: receive the non-transmitted user data from the first base station, and transmit the non-transmitted user data to the UE.

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

[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 base station and the second base station is connected to the satellite: in a direct wireless connection, or via a feeder link of the nonterrestrial network, the feeder link being connected to each of the first base station and the second base station via a landline.

[0021] In some embodiments, the first base station is configured to terminate the first user data connection upon establishment of the second user data connection.

[0022] In some embodiments, 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 passing the user data via the satellite.

[0023] Some embodiments of the present invention may provide a user equipment (UE) disposed on a flying object, the user equipment may be configured to: connect to a satellite in a nonterrestrial 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 handover instructions from the first base station, the handover instructions being transmitted by the satellite to the first base station upon determination that the flying object is leaving a cell served by the first base station, based on the handover instructions, transmit a connection request to a second base station in the terrestrial network; upon acknowledgment of the connection request by the second base station, connect to the second base station to provide a second user data connection.

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

[0025] In some embodiments, 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 passing the user data via the satellite.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] For a better understanding of embodiments of the invention and to show how the same can be carried into effect, reference will now be made, purely by way of example, to the accompanying drawings in which like numerals designate corresponding elements or sections throughout. In the accompanying drawings:

[0027] Figs. 1A and IB are schematic illustration of a system for controlling, by a non-terrestrial network (NTN), a connection of a user equipment (UE) disposed on a flying object to a terrestrial network (TN), according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0028] Fig. 2 is an example of a connection setup between the UE disposed on the flying object and a base station (BS) of the TN, the connection setup being controlled by a satellite of the NTN, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0029] Fig. 3 is an example of a handover setup between a first BS and a second BS of the TN for serving the UE disposed on the flying object, the handover setup being controlled by the satellite of the NTN, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0030] Fig. 4 is a flowchart of a method of controlling, by the NTN, a connection of the UE disposed on the flying object to the TN, according to some embodiments of the invention;

[0031] Fig. 5 is a block diagram of an exemplary computing device which may be used with embodiments of the present invention;

[0032] Fig. 6 is a block diagram of an exemplary user equipment which may be used with embodiments of the present invention;

[0033] Fig. 7 is a block diagram of an exemplary base station which may be used with embodiments of the present invention; and

[0034] Fig. 8 is a block diagram of an exemplary satellite which may be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0035] It will be appreciated that, for simplicity and clarity of illustration, elements shown in the figures have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements may be exaggerated relative to other elements for clarity. Further, where consideredappropriate, reference numerals may be repeated among the figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the present invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and components, modules, units and / or circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the invention.

[0037] Embodiments of the present invention may improve a wireless connection of a user equipment (UE) disposed on a flying object, such as airplane, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and / or any other suitable flying object, to a network. In operation, a satellite in a non-terrestrial network (NTN) may be connected to the UE disposed on the flying object in a primary link (e.g., lifeline) connection. The satellite may be connected to a first base station (BS) in a terrestrial network (TN). The UE disposed on the flying object may be connected to the first BS in a first user data connection. The first user data connection may include a radio connection, an internet protocol (IP) connection, or both. The satellite may determine that the flying object and the UE disposed thereon are leaving an area (e.g., a cell) served by the first BS. The satellite may select a second BS in the TN to which the UE disposed on the flying object may be connected. The satellite may connect to the second BS. The satellite may control the UE disposed on the flying object and the second BS to connect to provide a second user data connection. The second user data connection may include a radio connection, an internet protocol (IP) connection, or both. Once the second user data connection between the UE disposed on the flying object and the second BS is established, the satellite may control the UE and / or the first BS to terminate the first user data connection therebetween. The satellite may maintain the primary link connection to the UE disposed in the flying object. The primary link connection may be activated if the UE disposed on the flying object is disconnected from the TN. The primary link connection may be deactivated if the UE disposed on the flying object is connected to the TN.

[0038] Embodiments of the present invention may improve resilience and maintenance of the connection of the UE disposed on the flying object to the network as compared to prior art. In embodiments of the present invention, user data is transmitted between the UE disposed on theflying object and base stations in the TN, without involving the satellite of the TNT. Base stations in the TN have high throughput that is sufficient for serving transmission of the user data to and from the UE disposed on the flying object. Selection of base stations in the TN to which the UE disposed on the flying object may be connected and switching the connection of the UE between different base stations in the TN may be controlled (e.g., orchestrated) by the satellite of the NTN. The NTN has high coverage area and reliable prediction means for determining the direction of flight of the flying object and timing at which the switching of the connection of the UE disposed on the flying object between different base stations in the TN needs to be performed to maintain the connection of the UE to the TN. The satellite may maintain the primary link connection to the UE disposed on the flying object. Maintaining the primary link connection between the UE disposed on the flying object and the satellite may ensure that the connection of the UE to the NTN is maintained if the UE is disconnected from the TN.

[0039] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a network connection to the UE that is responsible for transmitting and receiving user data related to operation of the flying object (e.g., a speed, an altitude, a geolocation, identification information and / or any other suitable data related to the operation of flying object 90 that need to be continuously provided to an authorized party). Embodiments of the present invention may also provide a network connection to additional UEs, such as mobile phones or personal computers disposed on the flying object. The NTN may control (e.g., orchestrate) the connection of the additional UEs to the TN as described herein. The network connection of the additional UEs may be enabled during the flight of the flying object. The network connection of the additional UEs may be disabled during the takeoff and landing of the flying object.

[0040] Reference is made to Figs. 1A and IB, which are schematic illustration of a system 100 for controlling, by a non-terrestrial network (NTN) 110, a connection of a user equipment (UE) 120 disposed on a flying object 90 to a terrestrial network (TN) 130, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0041] NTN 110 may include a plurality of satellites (e.g., communication satellites) such as a satellite 112 (e.g., shown in Figs. 1A and IB). NTN 110 may include Geostationary Earth 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 GEO, MEO, LEO or VLEO satellites. Satellite 112 may include a transponder andassociated equipment for communicating with user equipment and / or with terrestrially located base stations.

[0042] UE 120 may be disposed on flying object 90. In some embodiments, UE 120 may be flying object 90. UE 120 may include a terminal that may communicate with satellite 112 of NTN 110 and base stations of TN 130. UE 120 may transmit and receive user data related to operation of flying object 90 (e.g., a speed, an altitude, a geolocation, identification information and / or any other suitable data related to the operation of flying object 90 that need to be continuously provided to an authorized party).

[0043] TN 130 may include a plurality of terrestrially located base stations (BSs). For example, TN 130 may include a first BS 131, a second BS 132, a third BS 133 (e.g., as shown in Figs. 1A and IB) and a plurality other BSs disposed at different locations on earth. Each of the BSs of TN130 may include a transceiver and associated equipment for communicating with UE 120 within a cell or a group of cells that are served by the respective BS. For example, first BS 131 may communicate with UE 120 when flying object 90 and UE 120 disposed thereon are positioned in and / or move through a first cell 131a that is served by first BS 131. In the same example, second BS 132 may communicate with UE 120 when flying object 90 and UE 120 disposed thereon are position in and / or move through a second cell 132a that is served by second BS 132. Adjacent cells served by different BS may partly overlap with each other, e.g., to allow a handover between the BSs without disconnecting the UE from TN 130. For example, first cell 131a served by first BS131 may partly overlap with second cell 132a served by second BS 131 and a third cell 133a served by third BS 133 may overlap with first cell 131a served by first BS 131 (e.g., as shown in Figs. 1A and IB).

[0044] In operation, satellite 112 in NTN 110 may connect to UE 120 disposed on flying object 90 in a primary link connection 121. Primary link connection 121 may be a lifeline connection. Primary link connection 121 may be maintained while flying object 90 is in operation. Primary link connection 121 may be deactivated if UE 120 disposed on flying object 90 is connected to one or more BSs of TN 130. Primary link connection 121 may be activated if UE 120 disposed on flying object 90 is disconnected from TN 130. Primary link connection 121 may include a radio connection, an internet protocol (IP) connection, or both. In primary link connection 121, UE 120 may transmit to satellite 112 data such as a speed, an altitude, a geolocation, identificationinformation and / or any other suitable data related to the operation of flying object 90 that need to be continuously provided to an authorized party.

[0045] Satellite 112 may connect to first BS 131 (e.g., as indicated by arrow 131b in Figs. 1A and IB). When flying object 90 and UE 120 disposed thereon are positioned in and / or move through first cell 131a (e.g., the area that is served by first BS 131), satellite 112 may control UE 120 and first BS 131 to connect to provide a first user data connection 122 (e.g., wireless first user data connection 122) to transmit user data therebetween (e.g., as described below with respect to Fig. 2). First user data connection 122 may include a radio connection, an internet protocol (IP) connection, or both. User data may be transmitted between UE 120 disposed on flying object 90 and first BS 131 without involvement of satellite 112 and / or without passing the user data through satellite 112. User data transmitted between UE 120 disposed on flying object 90 and first BS 131 may include the user data related to operation of flying object 90 (such as a speed, an altitude, a geolocation, identification information of flying object 90) and / or any other user data such as download, voice calls, streaming broadcast and / or any other suitable type of data (e.g., real-time data).

[0046] Satellite 112 may determine that flying object 90 and UE 120 disposed thereon are leaving or are about to leave first cell 131a that is served by first BS 131. Satellite 112 may select a BS in TN 110 to which UE 120 disposed on flying object 90 may be connected. Satellite 112 may select the BS based on a geolocation of flying object 90. For example, based on the geolocation, satellite 112 may determine the direction of flight of flying object 90 and select the BS towards which flying object 90 is moving. UE 120 may transmit the geolocation thereof to satellite 112. Satellite 112 may select the BS based on distances between flying object 90 and different BSs in TN 130. For example, satellite 112 may select the BS that is closer to flying object 90 than other BS in TN 130. The distances may be calculated by satellite 112 based on known geolocations of BSs in TN 130 and the geolocation of flying object 90 and UE 120 disposed thereon. Satellite 112 may select the BS based on information indicative of a power of radio signals transmitted between different BS of TN 130 and UE 120 disposed on flying object 90. For example, satellite 112 may select the BS whose radio signals have greater power when received at UE 120 than power of radio signals received from other BS in TN 130. UE 120 may transmit the information indicate of the power of radio signals to satellite 112. Satellite 112 may select the BS based on information indicative of a quality of radio signals transmitted between different BS of TN 130 and UE 120 disposed on flyingobject 90. For example, satellite 112 may select the BS whose radio signals have greater quality when received at UE 120 than quality of radio signals received from other BS in TN 130. UE 120 may transmit the information indicate of the quality of radio signals to satellite 112. In the example of Figs. 1A and IB, satellite 112 selects second BS 132.

[0047] Satellite 112 may connect to second BS 132 (e.g., as indicated by arrow 132b in Figs. 1A and IB). Satellite 112 may transmit handover instructions to first BS 131 and second BS 132 (e.g., as described below with respect to Fig. 3). Based on the handover instructions, second BS 132 may allocate resources required for transmitting user data between second BS 132 and UE 120 disposed in flying object 90. The handover instructions may include the geolocation and / or a flight trajectory of flying object 90. The handover instructions may include identification information and / or authentication information and / or capabilities of UE 120 and / or of second BS 132 (e.g., such as frequency bands). The handover instructions may include timestamp information indicating when the handover is to be performed. Based on the geolocation of flying object 90, second BS 132 may provide a directional transmission and reception of user data between second BS 132 and UE 120 disposed on flying object 90. Based on the handover instructions, first BS 131 may transmit to second BS 132 information indicative of user data transmission status between first BS 131 and UE 120 disposed on flying object 90. First BS 131 may determine whether or not non-transmitted user data that is intended to be transmitted by first BS 131 to UE 120 and has not been transmitted exists. If it is determined that the non-transmitted data exists, first BS 131 may transmit the nontransmitted data to second BS 132.

[0048] Satellite 112 may control UE 120 disposed on the flying object and the second BS to connect to provide a second user data connection 123 (e.g., wireless second user data connection 123) to transmit user data therebetween (e.g., as described below with respect to Fig. 2). User data may be transmitted between UE 120 disposed on flying object 90 and second BS 132 without involvement of satellite 112 and / or without passing the user data through satellite 112. Second BS 132 may transmit to UE 120 disposed on flying object 90 the non-transmitted user data that was intended to be transmitted by first BS 131 to UE 120 and was not transmitted (e.g., if the nontransmitted data exists, as described hereinabove). Second user data connection 123 may include a radio connection, an internet protocol (IP) connection, or both. Once second user data connection 123 between UE 120 disposed on flying object 90 and second BS 132 is established, satellite 112 may control UE 120 and / or first BS 131 to terminate first user data connection 122.

[0049] Satellite 112 may connect to and communicate with first BS 131 and second BS 132 of TN 130 in direct wireless connection (e.g., as shown in Fig. 1A) or via a feeder link 114 of NTN 110 (e.g., as shown in Fig. IB). Feeder link 114 of NTN 110 may be connected to the BS of TN 130 using wires.

[0050] Reference is made to Fig. 2, which is an example of a connection setup 200 between a user equipment (UE) 201 disposed on the flying object and a base station (BS) 202 of the TN, connection setup 200 being controlled by a satellite 203 of the NTN, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0051] In Fig. 2, UE 201 may be UE 120 disposed on flying object 90, BS 202 may be any one of first BS 131 and second BS 132 of TN 130, satellite 203 may be satellite 112 of NTN 110 and ground 204 may be feeder link 114 and / or any other suitable terrestrially located core element of NTN 110 as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB. Time may be considered as progressing “downwards” in Fig. 2.

[0052] In operation 210, UE 201 disposed on the flying object may transmit a setup request to satellite 203 of the NTN. The setup request may include information concerning UE capabilities (such as frequency bands used), UE authentication data and / or any other suitable information required for connecting UE 201 to BS in the TN.

[0053] Satellite 203 may select BS 202 to which UE 201 disposed on the flying object may be connected (e.g., based on geolocation, distances, radio signals power information and / or radio signals quality information as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB).

[0054] In operation 212, satellite 203 may transmit the setup request onwards to ground 204. In operation 214, ground 204 may transmit a setup configuration to satellite 203. The setup configuration may, for example, include the frequency band to be used and / or configurations of UE 201 (e.g., number of receivers and / or transmitters, bandwidth part (BWP), expected UE service, UE frequency band combinations and / or frequency bands of satellite 203 supported by UE 201). In operation 216, satellite 203 configures, based on the setup configuration, BS 202 of the plurality of BSs of the TN as a serving BS.

[0055] In operation 218, BS 202 may transmit a setup request to ground 204 using the setup configuration from the satellite. In operation 220, ground 204 may transmit an acknowledgement to BS 202 that a backlink has been setup.

[0056] In operation 222, satellite 203 may transmit to UE 201 disposed on the flying object an acknowledgement that the configuration of BS 202 has been setup. The acknowledgement may include a BS configuration of BS 202. The BS configuration may, for example, include the frequency band to be used, identification information of BS 202, access parameters and / or any other suitable information required for connection of UE 201 to BS 202.

[0057] In operation 224, UE 201 disposed on the flying object may transmit a connection request (e.g., short setup) to BS 202 using the BS configuration. In operation 226, BS 202 may transmit to UE 201 disposed on the flying object an acknowledgement that the connection has been setup.

[0058] In operation 228, UE 201 disposed on the flying object, BS 202 and ground 204 may be connected for user data transmission without an involvement of satellite 203 and / or without passing the user data through satellite 203.

[0059] Reference is made to Fig. 3, which is an example of a handover setup 300 between a first BS 302 and a second BS 303 of the TN for serving a user equipment (UE) 301 disposed on the flying object, handover setup 300 being controlled by a satellite 304 of the NTN, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0060] In Fig. 3, UE 301 may be UE 120 disposed on flying object 90, first BS 302 may be first BS 131, second BS 303 may be second BS 132 of TN 130, satellite 304 may be satellite 112 of NTN 110 and ground 305 may be feeder link 114 and / or any other suitable terrestrially located core element of NTN 110 as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB. Time may be considered as progressing “downwards” in Fig. 3.

[0061] In operation 310, UE 301 disposed on the flying object, first BS 302 (indicated in Fig. 3 as “BS1”) and ground 305 may be connected for user data transmission without an involvement of satellite 304 and / or without passing the user data through satellite 304 (e.g., as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB and Fig. 2).

[0062] As the flying object moves, the distance between first BS 302 and UE 301 disposed on the flying object may become greater than the distance between UE 301 and second BS 303. This may be determined based on the geolocation of the flying object, satellite-calculated distances between UE 301 and BSs 302, 303 and / or information concerning power and / or quality of radio signals transmission between UE 301 and BSs 302, 303 (e.g., as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB). For example, in operation 312, the information concerning the power and / or the qualityof radio signals transmission between UE 301 and BSs 302, 303 may be transmitted by UE 301 (e.g., via a primary link connection) and / or by BS 302 to satellite 304.

[0063] Upon determination that UE 301 disposed on the flying object needs to be connected to a BS other than first BS 302, satellite 304 may select second BS 303 to which UE 301 may be connected (e.g., based on geolocation, distances, radio signals power information and / or radio signals quality information as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB). In operation 314, satellite 304 may transmit handover instructions to first BS 302 and second BS 304. In operation 316, first BS 302 (to which UE 301 is connected at this point of time) may forward the handover instructions to UE 301. The handover instructions may include the geolocation of the flying object, the flight trajectory of the flying object, identification information and / or authentication information of UE 301 and / or second BS 303, capabilities (e.g., the frequency band to be used) of UE 301 and / or of second BS 303, and / or the timestamp information indicating when the handover is to be performed.

[0064] In operation 318, first BS 302 (to which UE 301 is connected at this point of time) may transmit to second BS 303 information indicative of user data transmission status between first BS 302 and UE 301 disposed on the flying object and further transmit to second BS 303 nontransmitted user data that is intended to be transmitted by first BS 302 to UE 301 and has not been transmitted. The transmission of the user data between first BS 302 and second BS 303 is performed without involvement of satellite 304 and / or without passing the user data through satellite 304, as indicated in operation 320 in Fig. 3.

[0065] In operation 322, UE 301 disposed on the flying object may transmit to second BS 303 a connection request (e.g., as described above with respect to Fig. 2).

[0066] In operation 324, second BS2 may transmit to UE 301 disposed on the flying object an acknowledgement that the handover between first BS 302 and second BS 303 is complete. In operation 326, second BS2 303 may transmit to satellite 304 an acknowledgement that the handover between first BS 302 and second BS 303 is complete.

[0067] In operation 328, UE 301 disposed on the flying object, second BS 303 and ground 305 may be connected for user data transmission without involvement of satellite 304 and / or without passing the user data through satellite 304.

[0068] Reference is made to Fig. 4, which is a flowchart of a method of controlling, by a NTN, a connection of a UE disposed on the flying object to a TN, according to some embodiments of the invention.

[0069] The operations described below with respect to Fig. 4 may be performed by equipment of system 100 as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB.

[0070] In operation 402, a satellite in the NTN (e.g., such as satellite 112 in NTN 110 as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB) may be connected to the UE disposed on the flying object (e.g., such as UE 120 disposed on the flying object 90 as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB) in a primary link connection (e.g., such as primary link connection 121 as described above with respect to Figs. 1 A and IB). The primary link connection may be maintained while the flying object is in operation. The primary link connection may be deactivated if the UE disposed on the flying object is connected to one or more BSs of the TN. The primary link connection may be activated if the UE disposed on the flying object is disconnected from the TN. The primary link connection may include a radio connection, an internet protocol (IP) connection, or both.

[0071] In operation 404, the satellite may be connected to a first BS (e.g., the first BS 131 as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB) in the TN (e.g., as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3).

[0072] In operation 406, the UE and the first BS may be controlled by the satellite to connect to provide a first user data connection (e.g., first user data connection 122 as described above with respect to Figs. 1 A and IB) to transmit user data therebetween (e.g., as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3). The first user data connection may include a radio connection, an internet protocol (IP) connection, or both. User data may be transmitted between the UE disposed on the flying object and the first BS without involvement of the satellite and / or without passing the user data through the satellite (e.g., as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3).

[0073] In operation 408, it may be determined by the satellite that the flying object and the UE disposed thereon are leaving or are about to leave a cell that is served by the first BS.

[0074] In operation 410, a second BS (e.g., the second BS as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB) in the TN to which the UE disposed on the flying object may be connected may be selected by the satellite (e.g., e.g., as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3). The BS may be selected based on a geolocation of the flying object, calculated distancesbetween the UE and different BSs in the TN and / or information concerning power and / or quality of radio signals transmission between the UE different BSs in the TN (e.g., as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB).

[0075] In operation 412, the satellite may be connected to a second BS (e.g., second BS 132 described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB) in the TN (e.g., e.g., as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3).

[0076] Handover instructions may be transmitted by the satellite to the first BS and the second BS (e.g., as described below with respect to Fig. 3). Based on the handover instructions, the second BS may allocate resources required for transmitting user data between the second BS and the UE disposed in the flying object. The handover instructions may include the geolocation of the flying object. Based on the geolocation of the flying object, a directional transmission and reception of user data may be provided between the second BS and the UE disposed on the flying object. Information indicative of user data transmission status between the first BS and the UE disposed on the flying object may be transmitted by the first BS to the second BS. It may be determined by the first BS whether or not non-transmitted user data that is intended to be transmitted by the first BS to the UE and has not been transmitted exists. If it is determined that the non-transmitted user data exists, the non-transmitted user data may be transmitted by the first BS to the second BS for further transmission to the UE by the second BS.

[0077] In operation 414, the UE disposed on the flying object and the second BS may be controlled by the satellite to connect to provide a second user data connection (e.g., second user data connection 123 described above with respect to Figs. 1 A and IB) to transmit user data therebetween (e.g., e.g., as described above with respect to Figs. 1A and IB, Fig. 2 and Fig. 3). The second user data connection may include a radio connection, an internet protocol (IP) connection, or both. User data may be transmitted between the UE disposed on the flying object and the second BS without involvement of the satellite and / or without passing the user data through the satellite. The nontransmitted user data that was intended to be transmitted by the first BS to the UE and was not transmitted may be transmitted by the second BS to the UE disposed on the flying object (e.g., if the non-transmitted user data exists, as described hereinabove).

[0078] Once the second user data connection between the UE disposed on the flying object and the second BS is established, the UE and / or the first BS may be controlled by the satellite to terminate the first user data connection.

[0079] The satellite may be connected to and may communicate with the first BS and the second BS of the TN in direct wireless connection (e.g., as described above with respect to Fig. 1 A) or via a feeder link of the NTN (e.g., as described above with respect to Fig. IB). The feeder link of the NTN may be connected to the BSs of the TN using wires.

[0080] Reference is now made to Fig. 5, which is a block diagram of an exemplary computing device 500 which may be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0081] Computing device 500 may include a controller or processor 505 that may be, for example, a central processing unit processor (CPU), a chip or any suitable computing or computational device, an operating system 515, a memory 520, a storage 530, input devices 535 and output devices 540.

[0082] Operating system 515 may be or may include any code segment designed and / or configured to perform tasks involving coordination, scheduling, arbitration, supervising, controlling or otherwise managing operation of computing device 500, for example, scheduling execution of programs. Memory 520 may be or may include, for example, a Random Access Memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a Dynamic RAM (DRAM), a Synchronous DRAM (SD-RAM), a double data rate (DDR) memory chip, a Flash memory, a volatile memory, a non-volatile memory, a cache memory, a buffer, a short term memory unit, a long term memory unit, or other suitable memory units or storage units. Memory 520 may be or may include a plurality of, possibly different, memory units. Memory 520 may store for example, instructions to carry out a method (e.g., code 525), and / or data such as user responses, interruptions, etc.

[0083] Executable code 525 may be any executable code, e.g., an application, a program, a process, task or script. Executable code 525 may be executed by controller 505 possibly under control of operating system 515. In some embodiments, more than one computing device 500 or components of device 500 may be used for multiple functions described herein. For the various modules and functions described herein, one or more computing devices 500 or components of computing device 500 may be used. Devices that include components similar or different to those included in computing device 500 may be used, and may be connected to a network and used as a system. One or more processor(s) 505 may be configured to carry out embodiments of the present invention by for example executing software or code. Storage 530 may be or may include, for example, a hard disk drive, a floppy disk drive, a Compact Disk (CD) drive, a CD-Recordable (CD-R) drive, auniversal serial bus (USB) device or other suitable removable and / or fixed storage unit. In some embodiments, some of the components shown in Fig. 5 may be omitted.

[0084] Input devices 535 may be or may include a mouse, a keyboard, a touch screen or pad or any suitable input device. It will be recognized that any suitable number of input devices may be operatively connected to computing device 500 as shown by block 535. Output devices 540 may include one or more displays, speakers and / or any other suitable output devices. It will be recognized that any suitable number of output devices may be operatively connected to computing device 500 as shown by block 540. Any applicable input / output (I / O) devices may be connected to computing device 500, for example, a wired or wireless network interface card (NIC), a modem, printer or facsimile machine, a universal serial bus (USB) device or external hard drive may be included in input devices 535 and / or output devices 540.

[0085] Embodiments of the invention may include one or more article(s) (e.g., memory 520 or storage 530) such as a computer or processor non- transitory readable medium, or a computer or processor non-transitory storage medium, such as for example a memory, a disk drive, or a USB flash memory, encoding, including or storing instructions, e.g., computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor or controller, carry out methods disclosed herein.

[0086] Reference is now made to Fig. 6, which is a block diagram of an exemplary user equipment (UE) 600 which may be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0087] UE 600 may include a radio interface 605. Radio interface 605 may include an antenna, a transceiver and / or any other suitable component to allow communication between UE 600 and a telecommunications network.

[0088] UE 600 may include a user identity module 610. User identity module 610 may store userspecific information such as the International Mobile Subscriber Identity (IMSI) and may be used for authentication and authorization on the telecommunications network.

[0089] UE 600 may include a mobile equipment 615. Mobile equipment 615 may include a processor, a memory, a display and a user interface.

[0090] UE 600 may include a battery 620. Battery 620 may provide power to UE 600, allowing it to operate without being connected to an external power source.

[0091] UE 600 may include an operating system 625. Operating system 625 may manage UE’s 600 resources and / or provide a platform for running applications.

[0092] UE 600 may include application software 630. Application software 630 may be user- installed and system applications that run on UE 600, providing UE 600 various functionalities.

[0093] UE 600 may include a user interface 635. UE 635 may include a touchscreen, buttons, display and / or any other suitable components through which users may interact with UE 600.

[0094] UE 600 may include sensors 640. Sensors 640 may include accelerometers, gyroscopes, GPS, and ambient light sensors, cameras and / or any other suitable sensors known in the art. Sensors 640 may allow features such as orientation detection, location-based services, and any other suitable features known in the art.

[0095] 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), allowing UE 600 to connect to other devices and telecommunications networks.

[0096] UE 600 may include security components 650. Security components 650 may be responsible for ensuring the security and privacy of user data and communications. Security components 650 may include encryption / decryption hardware and software, as well as security features to protect against malware and unauthorized access.

[0097] UE 600 may include a memory 655 (e.g., RAM) for running applications. UE 600 may include a storage 660 (e.g., internal storage or removable SD cards) and storage (e.g., internal storage or removable SD cards) for storing data and applications.

[0098] UE 600 may include a charging port 665 for recharging battery 620.

[0099] In some embodiments, some of the components shown in Fig. 6 may be omitted. In some embodiments, UE 600 may include additional components in accordance with standards specifications (e.g., 3GPP specifications) that are not shown in Fig. 6.

[0100] Reference is now made to Fig. 7, which is a block diagram of an exemplary base station (BS) 700 which may be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0101] BS 700 may include a radio transceiver 705. Radio transceiver 705 may transmit and receive radio signals.

[0102] BS 700 may include an antenna system 710. Antenna system 710 may include one or more antennas that may transmit and receive signals via the air in specific directions and patterns. For example, antenna system 710 may include advanced antenna technologies such as Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) and beamforming that may improve network performance and coverage.

[0103] BS 700 may include baseband processing unit 715. Baseband processing unit 715 may handle the baseband processing of communication signals. Baseband processing unit 715 may perform tasks such as modulation / demodulation, encoding / decoding, error correction, and channel allocation.

[0104] BS 700 may include a digital signal processing unit 720. Digital signal processing unit 720 may process and manipulate digital signals within baseband processing unit 715. Digital signal processing unit 720 may perform tasks such as signal processing, beamforming, interference cancellation, and MIMO processing.

[0105] BS 700 may include a backhaul connection 725. Backhaul connection 725 may provide a high-capacity backhaul connection to connect BS 700 to the core network. Backhaul connection 725 may include wired connections such as optical fiber or microwave links.

[0106] BS 700 may include a power supply unit 730. Power supply unit 730 may provide electrical power to BS’s 700 components to ensure continuous operation.

[0107] BS 700 may include a control and management unit 735. Control and management unit 735 may be responsible for controlling and managing the operation of BS 700. Control and management unit 735 may handle tasks such as network configuration, software updates, and fault management.

[0108] BS 700 may include a cooling system 740. Cooling system 740 may fans, heat sinks, and / or liquid cooling systems that may maintain the equipment of BS 700 within its operating temperature range.

[0109] BS 700 may include a timing and synchronization unit 745. Timing and synchronization unit 745 may perform timing and synchronization for maintaining the integrity of the communication network, e.g., to ensure that all base stations in the network are synchronized with a common timing reference.

[0110] BS 700 may include a security and encryption unit 750. Security and encryption unit 750 may perform tasks such as encryption of user data and authentication of UEs for protecting the network from unauthorized access and malicious attacks.

[0111] BS 700 may include a fault detection and alarming unit 755. Fault detection and alarming unit 755 may monitoring equipment health and raising alarms in case of hardware or software issues are critical for maintaining network reliability and availability.

[0112] In some embodiments, some of the components shown in Fig. 7 may be omitted. In some embodiments, BS 700 may include additional components in accordance with standards specifications (e.g., 3GPP specifications) that are not shown in Fig. 7.

[0113] Reference is now made to Fig. 8, which is a block diagram of an exemplary satellite 800 which may be used with embodiments of the present invention.

[0114] Satellite 800 may include transponders 805. Transponders 805 may receive signals from base stations and / or user equipment. Transponders 805 may transmit signals to base stations and / or user equipment. Transponders 805 may be configured for different frequency bands and services. Transponders 805 may include modulation and demodulation equipment to encode and decode the transmitted data. Satellite 800 may include antennas 810 for receiving and transmitting signals.

[0115] Satellite 800 may include a command and control system 815. Command and control system 815 may maintain satellite's 800 orbital position, attitude, and health. Command and control system 815 may handle adjustments to the satellite's 800 transponders 805, power levels, and other settings.

[0116] Satellite 800 may include a processing unit 820. Processing unit 820 may manage communication protocols, routing of signals, process and relay data efficiently between the uplink and downlink and other data-related functions.

[0117] Satellite 800 may include a power system 825. Powe system 825 may, for example, include solar panels to generate electrical power from sunlight. This power may be stored in onboard batteries and used to operate the satellite's systems, including the communication payload (e.g., transponders 805). Power system 825 may include regulators and converters to ensure a stable power supply.

[0118] In some embodiments, some of the components shown in Fig. 8 may be omitted. In some embodiments, satellite 800 may include additional components that are not shown in Fig. 8 and that may be required for supporting the communication of the satellite with base stations and / or user equipment.

[0119] One skilled in the art will realize the invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics thereof. The foregoingembodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects illustrative rather than limiting of the invention described herein. Scope of the invention is thus indicated by the appended claims, rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein.

[0120] In the foregoing detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide an understanding of the invention. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and 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 can be combined with features or elements described with respect to other embodiments.

[0121] Although embodiments of the invention are not limited in this regard, discussions utilizing terms such as, for example, “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining,” “establishing”, “analyzing”, “checking”, or the like, can refer to operation(s) and / or process(es) of a computer, a computing platform, a computing system, or other electronic computing device, that manipulates and / or transforms data represented as physical (e.g., electronic) quantities within the computer’s registers and / or memories into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computer’s registers and / or memories or other information non-transitory storage medium that can store instructions to perform operations and / or processes.

[0122] Although embodiments of the invention are not limited in this regard, the terms “plurality” and “a plurality” as used herein can include, for example, “multiple” or “two or more”. The terms “plurality” or “a plurality” can be used throughout the specification to describe two or more components, devices, elements, units, parameters, or the like. The term set when used herein can include one or more items. Unless explicitly stated, the method embodiments described herein are not constrained to a particular order or sequence. Additionally, some of the described method embodiments or elements thereof can occur or be performed simultaneously, at the same point in time, or concurrently.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A method of communication, the method comprising, by a satellite in a non-terrestrial network: connecting to a user equipment (UE) disposed on a flying 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 disposed on the flying object to connect to provide a first user data connection between the first base station and the UE; determining that the flying object and the UE disposed thereon are leaving a cell served by the first base station; selecting a second base station in the terrestrial network to connect to the UE disposed on the flying object; connecting to the second base station; and controlling the second base station and the UE disposed on the flying object to connect to provide a second user data connection between the second base station and the UE.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining and the selecting is based on at least one of: a geolocation of the flying object, distances between the flying object and different base stations in the terrestrial network, information indicative of a power of radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the terrestrial network, and information indicative of a quality of radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the terrestrial network.

3. The method of any one of claims 1-2, comprising transmitting handover instructions to the first base station and the second base station.

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

5. The method of any one of claims 1-4, controlling the second based station to prepare for providing the second user data connection.

6. The method of any one of claims 1-5, comprising: controlling the first base station to determine whether or not non-transmitted user data which is intended to be transmitted by the first base station to the UE and has not been transmitted exists, and if it is determined that the non-transmitted user data exists: controlling the first base station to transmit to the second base station non-transmitted user data, and controlling the second base station to transmit the non-transmitted user data to the UE disposed on the flying object.

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

8. The method of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the primary link connection, 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.

9. The method of 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: in a direct wireless connection, or via a feeder link of the non-terrestrial network, the feeder link being connected to each of the first base station and the second base station via a landline.

10. The method of any one of claims 1-9, comprising controlling the first base station and the UE disposed on the flying object to terminate the first user data connection upon establishment of the second user data connection.

11. The method of 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 is directly transmitted between the second base station and the UE via the second user data connection without passing the user data via the satellite.

12. A non-terrestrial network comprising a satellite, the satellite to: connect to a user equipment (UE) disposed on a flying 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 disposed on the flying object to connect to provide a first user data connection between the first base station and the UE; determine that the flying object and the UE disposed thereon are leaving an area served by the first base station; select a second base station in the terrestrial network to connect to the UE disposed on the flying object; connect to the second base station; and control the second base station and the UE disposed on the flying object to connect to provide a second user data connection between the second base station and the UE.

13. A terrestrial network comprising: a first base station configured to: connect to a user equipment (UE) disposed on a flying object to provide a first user data connection between the first base station and the UE, receive handover instructions from a satellite in a non-terrestrial network, the handover instructions being transmitted by the satellite upon determination that the flying object is leaving an area served by the first base station; transmit the handover instructions to the UE disposed on the flying object; and a second base station configured to: receive the handover instructions from the satellite,based on the handover instructions, prepare for providing a second user data connection between the second base station and the UE disposed on the flying object, receive a connection request from the UE disposed on the flying object, based on the connection request, connect to the UE disposed on the flying object to provide the second user data connection.

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

15. The terrestrial network of any one of claims 13-14, wherein the first base station is configured to: determine whether or not non-transmitted user data which is intended to be transmitted by the first base station to the UE and has not been transmitted exists, and if it is determined that the non-transmitted user data exist: based on the handover instructions, transmit the non-transmitted user data; and wherein the second base station is configured to: if the non-transmitted user data exist: receive the non-transmitted user data from the first base station, and transmit the non-transmitted user data to the UE.

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

17. The terrestrial network of 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 of 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: in a direct wireless connection, or via a feeder link of the non-terrestrial network, the feeder link being connected to each of the first base station and the second base station via a landline.

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

20. The terrestrial network of 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 is directly transmitted between the second base station and the UE via the second user data connection without passing the user data via the satellite.

21. A user equipment (UE) disposed on a flying object, the user equipment is 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 handover instructions from the first base station, the handover instructions being transmitted by the satellite to the first base station upon determination that the flying object is leaving a cell served by the first base station, based on the handover instructions, transmit a connection request to a second base station in the terrestrial network; upon acknowledgment of the connection request by the second base station, connect to the second base station to provide a second user data connection.

22. The UE of claim 21, configured to transmit to the satellite at least one of: a geolocation of the flying object, information indicative of a power of radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the terrestrial network, andinformation indicative of a quality of radio signals received by the UE from different base stations in the terrestrial network.

23. The UE of 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 passing the user data via the satellite.

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