Hybrid Space Network Node Integrating Terrestrial and Satellite Assets
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Solution Overview
Problem
The growing demand for data access and diverse communication services in satellite systems leads to challenges in frequency allocation and integration with terrestrial networks, due to technical incompatibilities and redundancy in infrastructure, necessitating a solution for efficient use of resources and spectrum management.
Innovation Solution
A network node is introduced that integrates space and ground assets using a flexible, secure, and seamless Multi-Service Telecommunications backbone, supporting session management, handovers, and radio resource management, with adaptive antennas and advanced network management systems to optimize resource allocation and mitigate interference, enabling seamless communication between diverse assets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If satellite systems are designed and implemented in isolation for single applications, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to duplication of technology across multiple independent systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple independent satellite systems and terrestrial networks into a unified hybrid network architecture. Different satellite systems (LEO, MEO, GEO) and terrestrial networks are integrated to share infrastructure and resources, reducing duplication while maintaining system reliability through diversified pathways.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal hybrid network infrastructure that serves multiple applications simultaneously (Earth Observation, Telecommunications, Navigation, Science). The network nodes and assets are designed to be multi-functional, handling diverse traffic types and protocols through a common platform rather than dedicated single-purpose systems.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If frequency spectrum is divided into smaller bandwidths for different missions, then interference between systems is reduced, but loss of information increases due to difficulty in frequency coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spectrum coordination mechanism that acts as an intermediary between different satellite systems and terrestrial networks. This coordination layer manages frequency allocation dynamically, resolving conflicts and optimizing spectrum usage across the hybrid network without requiring rigid pre-division of frequency bands.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic frequency allocation where spectrum assignments can change based on real-time network conditions, traffic demands, and interference levels. This dynamic approach replaces static frequency division with adaptive resource management, allowing efficient coordination across multiple missions and applications.
3Adaptability or versatility
If terrestrial networks and satellite systems are integrated with bespoke interface hardware and software, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases due to technical incompatibilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal interface standards and protocol stacks that enable different satellite systems and terrestrial networks to interoperate without bespoke custom hardware. The hybrid network uses standardized air interfaces and protocol layers that can handle multiple applications and traffic types through a common communication framework.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the application-specific functionality from the physical interface layer, allowing diverse applications to run on top of a standardized communication infrastructure. This separation enables adaptability through software-based service differentiation rather than hardware customization.
Data Source
AI summary
A network node is described which is configured for use in space, comprising a transmission interface for transmitting radio frequency signals, a reception interface for receiving radio frequency signals, a network management module for determining communication session information, a controller arranged to control the transmission interface and the reception interface in accordance with session information provided by the network management interface, wherein the transmission and reception interfaces are for receiving data from terrestrial nodes and space-borne nodes. Also described are a network entity comprising the network note and a plurality of adaptive antennas, a satellite containing the network entity and a user equipment device configured for communication with the network node.