Dynamic Radio Capability Configuration for Maritime Satellite Networks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current GSM RBS configurations on vessels are static, leading to limited voice and data capabilities when not all vessels are active in a satellite region, as they are set to maximum bandwidth requirements, resulting in underutilization of available transport bandwidth.

Innovation Solution

A monitor and control unit dynamically configures mobile-based controllers on vessels based on the number of active vessels and available bandwidth in each satellite region, allowing for increased voice and data capabilities when fewer vessels are active.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If GSM RBS configurations are set to maximum bandwidth requirements, then voice and data capabilities are ensured when all vessels are active, but additional transport bandwidth cannot be recognized when fewer vessels are active

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoice and data capabilitiesVSAvoidbandwidth utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic configuration of GSM RBS radio capabilities by monitoring the number of active vessels in each satellite region and adjusting voice and data capabilities accordingly. The system transitions from static maximum bandwidth configuration to dynamic adjustment, allowing the network to adapt radio capabilities based on actual traffic demand and available transport bandwidth.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes key radio parameters including voice capabilities, data capabilities, and transport bandwidth allocation based on the number of active vessels. By dynamically modifying these parameters, the network optimizes resource utilization while maintaining sufficient capacity to handle peak demand scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If static configuration is used to fulfill maximum bandwidth requirements, then sufficient capacity is provided when all vessels are active, but underutilization occurs when fewer vessels are active

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebandwidth capacityVSAvoidtransport bandwidth underutilization
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the system continuously monitors the number of active vessels in each satellite region and uses this information to adjust radio capabilities. This closed-loop control ensures that bandwidth capacity is maintained when needed while preventing underutilization when demand is lower, thereby reducing waste of transport bandwidth resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts radio capabilities based on real-time vessel activity data, transitioning from static configuration to adaptive resource allocation. This dynamic approach allows the network to match bandwidth capacity with actual demand, preventing both over-provisioning and under-provisioning scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If maximum bandwidth is allocated to each vessel, then sufficient voice and data capabilities are ensured, but cost efficiency decreases when not all vessels are active

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevoice and data capabilitiesVSAvoidtransport bandwidth consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically changes voice and data capability parameters based on the number of active vessels, adjusting bandwidth allocation to match actual demand. This parameter adjustment strategy ensures sufficient capacity for active vessels while reducing overall transport bandwidth consumption when fewer vessels are operational, thereby improving cost efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of allocating maximum bandwidth to all vessels simultaneously, the system applies partial action by allocating bandwidth only to the extent needed based on the number of active vessels. This approach avoids excessive bandwidth consumption while maintaining sufficient capacity for current operational requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS8805390B2Dynamic radio capabilities based upon available transport bandwidth
Publication Date: 2014.08.12 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US8805390B2 patent drawing
  • US8805390B2 patent drawing
  • US8805390B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A monitor and control unit is described herein which is associated with a land-based controller (e.g. base station controller) and one or more satellites, where the monitor and control unit is arranged to dynamically configure mobile-based controllers (e.g., radio base stations) located on mobile vessels (e.g., transport vessels, cruise liners) to provide bandwidth (voice and data capabilities) based at least on the number of mobile vessels being served by each of the satellites.