Non-Terrestrial Network Device Coverage Transition
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communications networks face challenges in efficiently supporting a wide range of devices with varying data traffic profiles, particularly in non-terrestrial networks where coverage is discontinuous due to the rapid movement of satellites, leading to frequent cell changes and service interruptions.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method for communications devices to transition between in-coverage and out-of-coverage modes based on satellite ephemeris information, using extended timers and power-saving mechanisms to manage data transmission and reception during periods of satellite visibility, allowing for efficient data handling during intermittent coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If non-terrestrial networks use satellite-based infrastructure to provide coverage in remote areas and on moving platforms, then service continuity and coverage area are improved, but frequent cell changes and service interruptions occur due to rapid satellite movement
Solution Approach 1:
The network performs preliminary actions by predicting future cell changes based on satellite ephemeris information and device mobility patterns. The network proactively prepares handover configurations and data forwarding paths before the actual cell change occurs, reducing service interruptions during transitions between satellite coverage areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts handover parameters, cell selection criteria, and data routing based on real-time satellite position, device velocity, and coverage predictions. This dynamic adaptation allows the network to optimize service continuity despite the rapidly changing non-terrestrial environment.
2Reliability
If communications devices continuously monitor and switch between satellite coverage areas to maintain connectivity, then service continuity is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous monitoring, the device performs periodic cell change predictions and coverage assessments at optimized intervals. The monitoring frequency is dynamically adjusted based on satellite orbital characteristics, device mobility state, and current coverage quality, reducing unnecessary power consumption while maintaining service continuity.
Solution Approach 2:
The device autonomously predicts cell changes using provided satellite ephemeris information and independently decides when to initiate handover procedures or enter power-saving modes. This self-service capability reduces the need for continuous network signaling and allows the device to optimize its own power consumption while maintaining connectivity.
3Reliability
If the network implements frequent handovers to track moving satellites, then coverage continuity is improved, but device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The network introduces intermediary elements such as prediction algorithms, buffer management systems, and optimized handover signaling protocols that simplify the device's handover management. The network side performs complex calculations and preparations, reducing the processing burden on devices while maintaining coverage continuity through coordinated handovers.
4Productivity
If data transmission is maintained during satellite visibility periods, then data delivery efficiency is improved, but data loss occurs during coverage interruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by predicting coverage interruptions based on satellite ephemeris and device mobility. Before predicted coverage loss occurs, the network proactively buffers outgoing data, establishes alternative transmission paths, or pre-sends critical data during periods of good coverage, reducing data loss during subsequent coverage interruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The network implements cushioning mechanisms by maintaining data buffers and alternative routing capabilities in advance of predicted coverage interruptions. These pre-prepared resources act as a cushion that protects against data loss when satellite coverage is temporarily unavailable, allowing seamless resumption of data transmission when coverage is restored.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operating a communications device in a wireless network formed by non-terrestrial network apparatus and gateways is described. The device operates in an in-coverage mode when within the network's coverage, allowing transmission and reception of signals. When the device is expected to go out of coverage at a specific time, it determines when it will next be in coverage. The device transitions to an out-of-coverage mode when out of range and automatically returns to the in-coverage mode when back within the network's coverage at the determined time.