Hybrid Satellite-Terrestrial Feeder Link Interference Cancellation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Satellite communications systems face interference and capacity issues, particularly in densely populated areas where satellite signals are blocked or unreliable, leading to underutilization of satellite spectrum.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a hybrid satellite-terrestrial system that combines feeder link signals to reduce interference by using error correction and weight application techniques, along with time alignment and pre-distortion of signals, to enhance communication efficiency and capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If satellite signals are used in densely populated areas, then satellite communications can be provided, but signal reliability deteriorates due to blocking by high-rise structures and buildings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines satellite communications with terrestrial communications to form a hybrid system. The terrestrial base stations are integrated with satellite gateways, allowing the system to use both satellite and terrestrial infrastructure simultaneously. This merging enables reliable communication in densely populated areas by switching between or combining satellite and terrestrial signals, thus resolving the reliability issue while maintaining broad coverage capability.
2Reliability
If terrestrial networks are used to enhance availability in densely populated areas, then system reliability improves, but frequency interference increases due to reuse of satellite frequencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements interference cancellation techniques that use feedback mechanisms. The terrestrial base stations monitor and detect satellite feeder link signals on the same frequencies, measure the interference characteristics, and then actively cancel this interference through signal processing. This feedback-based interference cancellation allows frequency reuse between terrestrial and satellite systems while maintaining signal quality and reducing harmful interference effects.
3Productivity
If frequency reuse is implemented between terrestrial and satellite systems, then capacity increases, but interference management complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal hybrid communication system where terrestrial base stations serve dual functions: providing terrestrial cellular service and acting as satellite gateways for feeder link communications. This multi-functionality allows the same terrestrial infrastructure to support both terrestrial and satellite operations, simplifying the overall system architecture and reducing the complexity of interference management by consolidating functions rather than requiring separate dedicated systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of reducing interference in a satellite communications system may include receiving a plurality of feeder link signals and time aligning the plurality of feeder link signals to provide time aligned feeder link signals. At least two of the time aligned feeder link signals may be combined to provide reduced interference of at least one of the feeder link signals. Related systems are also discussed.