LEO Satellite Network UE Location Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current location identification and verification techniques in network communication scenarios, especially in satellite networks, face challenges such as reliability issues due to jamming and spoofing in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) techniques, and the need for more robust location verification methods.
Innovation Solution
The use of non-terrestrial satellites, particularly those in low-Earth orbit (LEO) constellations, to provide network-verified user equipment (UE) location techniques. This involves utilizing telemetry and data from LEO satellites to determine and verify the geographic location of UE devices, enhancing resistance to jamming and spoofing, and improving mobility management and power consumption efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If GNSS techniques are used for location identification, then location verification can be performed, but reliability deteriorates due to jamming and spoofing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces LEO satellites as intermediary elements between the UE and the location verification system. These satellites serve as trusted mediators that can independently verify UE location through orbital mechanics calculations, rather than relying solely on GNSS signals that are vulnerable to jamming and spoofing. The LEO satellite network acts as a mediator that cross-validates location claims through multiple independent measurement methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the location verification process into multiple independent components: GNSS-based location determination, LEO satellite-based location determination, and network-based verification. By dividing the verification system into separate segments that use different methodologies, the patent reduces susceptibility to single-point failures from jamming or spoofing attacks on any single system.
2Reliability
If satellite network connections are attempted continuously, then connectivity can be maintained, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having the network determine satellite coverage areas and availability in advance, before the UE attempts connection. The network uses LEO satellite orbital data to predict which UEs will have satellite coverage available, and proactively informs UEs about upcoming coverage windows. This allows UEs to schedule their satellite connection attempts only when coverage is expected to be available, avoiding unnecessary power consumption from attempting connections during no-coverage periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action through discontinuous transmission (DTX) mechanisms where UEs periodically check for satellite coverage availability rather than continuously attempting connections. The network provides periodic coverage availability information to UEs, and UEs adjust their connection attempts based on these periodic updates, reducing power consumption while maintaining connectivity when available.
3Reliability
If LEO satellite location determination is used, then resistance to jamming and spoofing improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the LEO satellite system to perform multiple functions simultaneously: providing communication services, enabling location determination, and supporting network verification. The same LEO satellite infrastructure used for communication also provides location determination capabilities through orbital mechanics calculations, eliminating the need for separate dedicated hardware systems and reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through autonomous location determination where the LEO satellite system independently calculates UE location based on orbital data and signal measurements, without requiring complex processing equipment at the UE end. The satellites themselves perform the complex orbital mechanics calculations and location verification, reducing the processing burden and complexity of the UE device while maintaining high security and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
Various approaches for the generation and verification of user equipment (UE) location, using communications and processing capabilities of non-geostationary (NGSO) satellite networks and equipment are discussed. Among other examples, communications between a UE and a low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite may be used to substantiate or corroborate, to a location management function (LMF) of a 5G network, that a UE is located in or at a particular geographical location or area. Additionally, based on this location information and related SV ephemeris data, a satellite coverage area may be determined for a UE at a location at any one moment in time, for coordinating and managing connectivity of the UE with terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks.