Aircraft Mobile Network Relay for Extended Communication Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems for aircraft face limitations in data transfer capacity and distance, especially with ground-based systems, and are costly when satellite-based systems are used.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that form a mobile network using identified aircraft to relay microwave signals between a source and an aircraft, optimizing antenna configuration for maximum bandwidth and throughput, allowing for efficient communication even beyond direct line-of-sight ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If ground-based wireless communication systems are used, then communication coverage and distance are limited, but system cost is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses intermediate aircraft as relay nodes to extend communication distance. Ground-based stations communicate with aircraft through a mobile ad-hoc network where other aircraft act as intermediaries, enabling communication beyond direct line-of-sight while maintaining ground-based system cost benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The communication path is segmented into multiple hops through different aircraft nodes. Instead of requiring direct ground-to-aircraft communication, the signal is divided and transmitted through multiple intermediate aircraft, each handling a portion of the communication relay
2Productivity
If satellite-based communication systems are used, then bandwidth and communication speed are improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Aircraft equipped with high-capability communication systems serve as intermediary nodes that provide enhanced bandwidth and data transfer rates to other aircraft without requiring every aircraft to have expensive satellite communication equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a distributed network where communication capabilities are copied and shared across multiple aircraft nodes. Instead of each aircraft needing full satellite communication capability, the network collectively provides high-speed data transfer through participating nodes
3Length of stationary object
If microwave signals are relayed through multiple aircraft, then communication distance is extended, but signal reliability may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile ad-hoc network implements feedback mechanisms where intermediate aircraft monitor signal quality and dynamically adjust relay parameters. This feedback loop maintains signal reliability by detecting degradation and compensating through adaptive modulation, power control, or node selection
Solution Approach 2:
The communication network dynamically selects and reconfigures relay nodes based on real-time conditions. Aircraft can join or leave the network, and signal paths are dynamically adjusted to maintain optimal reliability, transforming a static relay system into an adaptive mobile network
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables reliable and high-bandwidth communication between aircraft and ground stations, overcoming distance limitations and cost issues by dynamically reconfiguring the mobile network to maintain connectivity and maximize data transfer.
Implementation Method 1
The number of configured aircraft sends microwave signals between the source and the aircraft
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for exchanging information between a source and an aircraft. In response to a request to exchange the information between the aircraft and the source, a number of aircraft is identified to send microwave signals between the source and the aircraft to form a number of identified aircraft based on a location of the aircraft and a location of the source. The number of identified aircraft is configured to send the microwave signals between the source and the aircraft to form a number of configured aircraft. The number of configured aircraft forms a mobile network. The microwave signals are sent between the source and the aircraft using the number of configured aircraft. The information is exchanged between the aircraft and the source using the microwave signals sent through the mobile network.