Hybrid Satellite-Terrestrial Power Control Loop
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Solution Overview
Problem
Satellite communications systems face challenges in reliably serving densely populated areas due to signal blocking by high-rise structures and poor penetration into buildings, leading to underutilization of satellite band spectrum, and existing dual mode systems are costly and bulky.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a satellite wireless communications system with a signal power control loop that allows for independent control of signal power between a terrestrial station and a terminal, and between the terrestrial station and a satellite, enhancing communication efficiency and capacity by using a hybrid system with terrestrial retransmission of satellite frequencies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If satellite communications systems use a single global beam covering entire service area, then system complexity is reduced, but capacity and efficiency are insufficient for densely populated areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the satellite service area into multiple distinct geographic regions, each served by separate radiation patterns (spot beams). This segmentation allows independent frequency reuse planning in different areas, increasing overall system capacity while maintaining manageable complexity through modular beam management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces terrestrial retransmission stations as an intermediate dimension between satellite and end users. This creates a hybrid satellite-terrestrial architecture that adds spatial diversity, allowing frequency reuse both in space (different satellite beams) and on the ground (different terrestrial cells), thereby significantly increasing capacity.
2Productivity
If terrestrial networks reuse satellite frequency bands, then capacity is increased, but interference between satellite and terrestrial signals occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements power control loops that continuously monitor signal levels and adjust transmit power accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that terrestrial stations and satellites maintain appropriate power levels, preventing harmful interference while maximizing frequency reuse benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts transmission power parameters for both satellite and terrestrial components. By changing power levels based on traffic demand, location, and interference conditions, the system optimizes frequency reuse while maintaining acceptable interference levels.
3Reliability
If dual mode satellite/terrestrial systems are implemented, then service availability is improved, but terminal cost and size increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines satellite and terrestrial communication capabilities into a unified hybrid system. Terminals use a single radio interface that can operate in both satellite mode (direct satellite link) and terrestrial mode (via local terrestrial station), eliminating the need for separate dual-mode hardware and reducing terminal complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal terminal design with a single radio interface that can communicate with both satellite and terrestrial infrastructure. This multi-functional approach allows the same terminal hardware to access either network type based on availability and signal conditions, improving reliability without increasing device complexity.
4Area of stationary object
If satellite signals are used in densely populated areas, then coverage is provided, but signal blocking by high-rise structures and poor building penetration occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces terrestrial retransmission stations as intermediary nodes between satellite and end users in densely populated areas. These ground-based stations receive satellite signals and retransmit them locally, overcoming blockage by high-rise structures and poor building penetration while maintaining coverage in urban environments.
Data Source
AI summary
A signal power control loop is provided for a link between a terrestrial station and a terminal when the terminal and a satellite are linked via the terrestrial station. The signal power control loop may control transmitted signal power of the terminal and/or the terrestrial station. In some embodiments, the signal power control loop controls transmitted signal power of the terminal and/or the terrestrial station independent of signal power control for a link between the terrestrial station and the satellite.