Modulated Retro Reflector Satellite Network Reducing SWaP
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing satellite communication systems have a high size, weight, and power (SWaP) value due to complex pointing, acquisition, and tracking (PAT) systems, limiting their application in micro-satellite networks, and primarily achieve point-to-point data transmission rather than networking.
Innovation Solution
A modulated retro reflector-based satellite network communication system is proposed, comprising a communication subnet with a data acquisition layer and a backbone network layer, where modulated retro reflectors (MRRs) are installed on satellites in the data acquisition layer, enabling data transmission through other nodes in the network, reducing the need for PAT systems and allowing for networking among satellites.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex PAT system is installed on each satellite for laser communication, then communication reliability is improved, but the SWaP value increases, limiting application in micro-satellite networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the PAT system from the micro-satellite platform by using a modulated retro-reflective element (MRR) that passively returns laser beams without requiring active pointing, acquisition, and tracking mechanisms. This removes the heavy and complex PAT subsystem while maintaining laser communication capability through the two-way satellite system where ground stations or backbone satellites provide the active PAT functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary MRR component that mediates between the incoming laser beam and the micro-satellite platform. The MRR acts as a passive optical element that modulates the returning beam to carry data without requiring the micro-satellite to actively track or point, thereby enabling communication while minimizing SWaP.
2Weight of stationary object
If MRR is used to reduce SWaP value, then micro-satellite laser communication becomes feasible, but direct communication between two MRRs is impossible, requiring network architecture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the satellite communication system into two functional layers: a backbone network layer with satellites equipped for active communication and data acquisition layer with micro-satellites using passive MRRs. This segmentation allows MRR-equipped micro-satellites to communicate through the backbone layer, enabling networked communication without requiring complex active systems on each micro-satellite.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses backbone network satellites as intermediary nodes that relay communication between MRR-equipped micro-satellites. Since MRRs cannot communicate directly with each other, the backbone satellites serve as active mediators that receive, process, and forward data between passive reflectors, enabling networked communication architecture.
3Reliability
If existing satellite communication systems are used, then point-to-point data transmission is achieved, but networking capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal communication architecture where the backbone network layer satellites can serve multiple functions: direct communication with ground stations, relaying data between MRR-equipped micro-satellites, and coordinating network operations. This multi-functional backbone enables both point-to-point and networked communication modes, enhancing adaptability while maintaining reliable data transmission.
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 reduces the SWaP value of micro-satellites, enabling efficient laser communication by eliminating one PAT system and allowing for satellite network architecture that facilitates communication among satellites through the backbone and data acquisition layers, suitable for micro-satellite laser communication networks.
Implementation Method 1
modulated retro reflector (MRR) is installed on the first satellite
Implementation Method 2
Modulated retro reflector-based satellite network communication system
Data Source
AI summary
A modulated retro reflector-based satellite network communication system and method are provided. The system includes: a data acquisition layer configured to acquire data to be acquired, perform integrated analysis on the data to be acquired and send an integrated analysis result to a backbone network layer; the backbone network layer configured to receive a control instruction sent by a ground station, schedule first satellites based on the control instruction, and send the integrated analysis result to the ground station; and the ground station configured to generate the control instruction, send the control instruction to the backbone network layer, detect the first satellites and the second satellites, and receive the integrated analysis result. Through the system, the SWaP value of the satellite may be greatly reduced, thereby being suitable for communication networking of micro-satellites.