Mesh Edge Data Centers for Non-Geostationary Satellite Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current satellite communication systems face challenges in providing scalable, reliable, and efficient communication networks, especially in high-latitude regions and areas with varying bandwidth needs, as they often rely on geostationary satellites that are inflexible and prone to disruptions from weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a non-geostationary satellite communications network architecture utilizing a combination of highly elliptical orbit (HEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellites, along with edge micro data centers connected in a mesh network, which enables flexible bandwidth allocation, high availability, and rapid switching between satellites using planar antennas for electronic beamforming.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If geostationary satellites are used for communication, then coverage area is large, but flexibility and adaptability to varying bandwidth needs are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the satellite communication system into multiple non-geostationary satellites operating in different orbits (LEO, MEO, HEO) rather than relying on a single geostationary satellite. This segmentation allows the system to provide both wide coverage through multiple satellites and flexible bandwidth allocation through orbital选择和动态资源管理
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic orbital mechanics by using non-geostationary satellites that can change their position and coverage area over time. The system dynamically adjusts satellite orbits and ground station tracking to optimize coverage and bandwidth allocation based on varying operational needs, providing both extensive coverage and adaptability
2Device complexity
If geostationary satellites are used, then infrastructure complexity is reduced, but reliability and resistance to weather disruptions are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements local quality by deploying edge micro data centers at strategic ground locations that cache content and data locally. This reduces the need for complex centralized infrastructure while improving reliability by providing local backup and reducing dependency on single satellite links. The mesh network topology also provides local routing capabilities that enhance system resilience
3Device complexity
If centralized data centers are used, then resource management is simplified, but latency and network traffic efficiency are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the centralized data center into distributed edge micro data centers located at multiple ground stations. Each edge data center independently manages local content caching and data storage, reducing the management overhead on any single node while dramatically reducing latency by serving content from the nearest location. The modular architecture allows independent operation of each edge node
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a spatial dimension to resource management by distributing data centers across multiple geographic locations rather than concentrating them in one place. This spatial distribution reduces network traffic latency by placing content closer to users and enables parallel processing across multiple edge nodes, effectively reducing overall system latency while maintaining manageable complexity through standardized interfaces
4Device complexity
If single satellite links are used, then connection simplicity is maintained, but availability and redundancy are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple satellite links and ground station connections into a unified mesh network topology. Instead of relying on single satellite links, the system combines multiple communication paths through different satellites and ground stations, providing redundancy and failover capabilities. The mesh network automatically routes traffic through alternative paths when links fail, maintaining availability while managing complexity through standardized protocols
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides improved coverage, scalability, and reliability by distributing compute resources and caching data locally, reducing latency and network traffic, while maintaining connectivity through geographically separated satellite links and adaptive management of network resources.
Implementation Method 1
rapid switching between satellites using planar antennas for electronic beamforming
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure includes various examples and variations of communications networks that employ a satellite network with a plurality of HEO and/or MEO satellites. Regional data centers may be connected to the satellite via gateways. Edge devices may connect to the network through a plurality of edge micro data centers configured in a mesh network to provide distributed and dynamically allocatable compute and storage resources. Each edge micro data center may include a RAN controller to implement an O-RAN network (e.g., via a 5G Node B cell site) to provide end-user devices direct access to the distributed compute and storage resources of the mesh network of edge micro data centers without intermediary backhaul transport layers. Microwave links or other terrestrial network types may be employed to facilitate the mesh network of edge micro data centers.