Dynamic MODCOD Selection for Satellite Multicast Streams

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional satellite communication systems use static multicast MODCOD configurations, which are inefficient and unreliable due to varying terminal conditions, leading to bandwidth wastage and service disruptions, especially in high-throughput satellite networks with diverse terminal capabilities and changing environmental conditions.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that dynamically determine and adjust the multicast MODCOD based on the current operating conditions of each terminal in a satellite network, identifying the optimal MODCOD for efficient spectral usage and reliable service delivery by using processing circuitry to analyze terminal capabilities and adjust MODCOD settings in real-time.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a static multicast MODCOD configuration is used, then the system is simple to operate, but spectral efficiency deteriorates due to inability to adapt to varying terminal conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidspectral efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic MODCOD selection for multicast streams by determining the operating MODCOD of each terminal and selecting an optimal MODCOD based on current terminal conditions. The system periodically updates the multicast MODCOD assignment to adapt to changing channel conditions, transforming the static configuration into a dynamic adaptive system that optimizes spectral efficiency while maintaining operational simplicity through automated selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If lower order MODCODs are used to ensure service reliability, then service reliability improves, but bandwidth efficiency deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice reliabilityVSAvoidbandwidth efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the MODCOD parameter dynamically based on terminal operating conditions. By evaluating each terminal's current channel quality and capability, the system selects the appropriate MODCOD level, allowing terminals with good conditions to use higher order MODCODs for better bandwidth efficiency while ensuring terminals with poor conditions use lower order MODCODs for reliable service delivery.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If dynamic MODCOD adjustment is implemented, then spectral efficiency improves, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespectral efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where terminals report their operating MODCOD and channel conditions to the satellite system. The system uses this feedback information to determine the optimal multicast MODCOD, creating a closed-loop control system that achieves dynamic adaptation without requiring complex centralized control, thereby managing system complexity through information feedback.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

4Reliability

If multicast MODCOD is configured regardless of terminal operating conditions, then service availability improves, but bandwidth waste increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice availabilityVSAvoidbandwidth waste
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies local quality by assigning different MODCOD levels to different terminals based on their individual operating conditions and capabilities. Instead of using a uniform multicast MODCOD for all terminals, the system tailors the MODCOD selection to each terminal's local channel characteristics, ensuring reliable service delivery to each terminal while optimizing overall bandwidth utilization across the network.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Data Source

PatentUS10700770B2System, apparatus, and method for optimal MODCOD selection
Publication Date: 2020.06.30 VT IDIRECT
  • US10700770B2 patent drawing
  • US10700770B2 patent drawing
  • US10700770B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a method, system, and computer readable medium for satellite communication. The method includes determining an operating modulation and coding scheme (MODCOD) associated with each terminal of a plurality of terminals, the plurality of terminals being a part of an iNet; identifying an optimal MODCOD based on operating MODCODs associated with the plurality of terminals; associating the optimal MODCOD with the iNet; and transmitting a multicast stream to the plurality of terminals based on the optimal MODCOD.