Location-Based Interference Masking for Satellite-Cellular Coexistence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for managing interference between cellular and satellite communications are inadequate in dynamic environments, particularly where cellular User Equipment (UE) locations are close to satellite communication paths and vary with the satellite's movement, leading to degraded satellite and cellular performance.
Innovation Solution
A system that analyzes expected interference levels using AI/ML models, associates locations with interference masks and restriction rules, groups UEs based on interference levels, and schedules signal blanking to mitigate interference dynamically.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional power control mechanisms are used to adjust transmission parameters in real-time, then interference mitigation is attempted, but the methods fail to adequately address interference in locations where cellular and satellite interference is magnified or not created, and do not account for dynamic satellite movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cell coverage area into multiple location sets with different interference characteristics. Each location set is associated with specific interference masks and restriction rules tailored to its local interference conditions. This allows the system to apply differentiated interference mitigation strategies for different geographical locations within the cell, rather than using a uniform approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts signal blanking restrictions based on real-time satellite location and movement. As the satellite moves across the sky, the network controller updates which location sets are affected and modifies the restriction rules accordingly. This dynamic adaptation ensures that interference mitigation remains effective throughout the satellite's passage.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If frequency coordination strategies are implemented to allocate specific frequency bands, then co-channel interference is reduced, but the methods are insufficient to address interference caused by specific UE locations within a cell that are in close proximity to satellite communication paths
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cell coverage area into multiple location sets based on geographical coordinates and interference characteristics. Each location set represents a specific region where UEs may cause interference to satellite communications. This segmentation allows the system to identify and manage interference sources by location, making it easier to detect and measure location-specific interference problems.
Solution Approach 2:
The network controller acts as an intermediary that receives satellite location information, determines which location sets are affected, and distributes updated restriction rules to appropriate base stations. This intermediary function bridges the gap between satellite movement and local interference mitigation actions, enabling coordinated response to location-specific interference issues.
3Reliability
If signal blanking is applied to mitigate interference, then satellite communication quality is protected, but cellular communication productivity is reduced due to scheduled blanking of UE signals
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of applying signal blanking universally across the entire cell, the patent applies blanking restrictions only to specific location sets that are currently affected by satellite passage. The restriction rules are tailored to each location set, applying blanking only when and where necessary to protect satellite communications. This partial action minimizes the impact on cellular productivity while still providing adequate protection for satellite quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system manage cellular communications considering satellite communications. The method includes determining an expected level of interference created by cellular communications for satellite communications for locations in a satellite coverage area. It also involves associating locations sets with interference mask and an associated restriction rule. The method further includes grouping the locations across the location sets based on a respective expected level of interference for a respective location. The system and method can be used to manage interference between cellular and satellite communications.