Satellite Switching Control in Non-Terrestrial Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently managing satellite switches in non-terrestrial networks without disrupting ongoing communications, particularly in scenarios where the wireless device remains in the same cell before and after switching satellites.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves using control messages to facilitate satellite switches in wireless communication systems. A first control message indicates a switch without changing parameters like the physical cell identifier, allowing seamless transitions. A second control message directs the wireless device to handover to a new satellite, which may require changing parameters, enabling smooth network adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If satellite switching is performed without changing parameters like physical cell identifier, then communication continuity is maintained, but the system cannot adapt to scenarios requiring parameter changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments satellite switching into two distinct types: intra-cell satellite switching (maintaining PCI) and inter-cell satellite switching (changing PCI). This segmentation allows the system to handle different scenarios with appropriate parameter change strategies, resolving the contradiction between maintaining communication continuity and adapting to parameter change requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic control mechanisms where the network can flexibly switch between maintaining PCI and changing PCI based on service requirements. The system dynamically adjusts parameter change behavior according to different satellite switching scenarios, enabling both communication continuity and adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If handover procedures are used for satellite switching, then parameter changes can be managed, but communication disruptions occur during the transition
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary actions by pre-configuring target satellite parameters and preparing handover conditions before actual switching occurs. The network sends control messages in advance to configure the wireless device for upcoming satellite switches, ensuring parameter changes are ready but not yet executed, thus avoiding communication disruptions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces control messages as intermediaries that mediate between the network's parameter change requirements and the wireless device's communication needs. These control messages carry parameter change instructions while maintaining communication continuity through coordinated switching actions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If control messages are used to configure satellite switching, then switching flexibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates universal control messages that can handle both intra-cell and inter-cell satellite switching scenarios. These control messages serve multiple functions: indicating satellite switch events, carrying parameter change instructions, and coordinating timing. This universality reduces the need for separate control mechanisms for different switching types, managing complexity while maintaining flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A wireless device may change from communicating with a first node to communicating with a second node, for example, based on a switch or a handover. A wireless device that receives an indication for a switch (e.g., to a satellite or wireless communication device) and an indication for a handover may determine which to perform based on a time indicated for the switch. For example, the handover may be initiated after receiving an indication to perform the switch if the handover is initiated before the time for the switch.