Inter-satellite Optical Terminal Field of View Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inter-satellite communication links in polar or quasi-polar satellite constellations face interruptions at high latitudes due to varying azimuth angles and potential interference, leading to loss of connectivity beyond ±60° latitude, requiring frequent reacquisition of connections after crossing poles.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a satellite communication device with optical terminals configured to maintain a wider field of view, allowing continuous inter-orbital plane connections by positioning terminals symmetrically and using separate wavelength and polarization bands to avoid interference, ensuring uninterrupted links throughout the satellite's orbit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If radio frequency inter-satellite communication terminals are used with fixed azimuthal sectors, then interference between beams at the pole is avoided, but inter-satellite links are interrupted at extreme latitudes above ±60°
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the azimuthal sector of the inter-satellite communication terminal variable rather than fixed. The terminal's azimuthal sector is dynamically adjusted based on the satellite's latitude and position relative to the pole, allowing the beam to track the target satellite continuously even at extreme latitudes. This dynamic adaptation eliminates link interruptions while maintaining interference avoidance through controlled sector adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of azimuthal sector width and orientation dynamically. By modifying the azimuthal sector parameter according to the satellite's orbital position and latitude, the system maintains optimal beam alignment with target satellites at all latitudes. This parameter change enables continuous links at high latitudes while preventing beam interference through coordinated sector management.
2Reliability
If the azimuthal sector is widened to maintain links at high latitudes, then link continuity is improved, but beam interference at the pole increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by adjusting the azimuthal sector characteristics locally according to the satellite's specific position and latitude. Rather than using a uniformly wide sector globally, the system optimizes the sector width and orientation for each local operational context - using narrower sectors when not near poles and wider or adjusted sectors when approaching extreme latitudes. This localized adaptation maintains links at high latitudes while minimizing interference in other regions.
3Reliability
If dedicated antennas are used for intra-plane and inter-plane communications, then communication quality is maintained, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the inter-satellite communication terminal to perform multiple functions - it can operate as both an intra-plane communication terminal and an inter-plane communication terminal. The terminal includes switching means that enable it to be configured for different communication modes, eliminating the need for separate dedicated antennas for each function. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity while maintaining communication quality through appropriate terminal configuration.
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 maintains continuous intra-plane and inter-plane links without interruption, even at high latitudes, reducing the need for frequent reacquisition and ensuring consistent connectivity and maximum throughput for ground communications.
Implementation Method 1
each optical terminal dedicated to intra-orbital plane communications being configured to transmit and receive optical signals with an optical terminal of the same satellite evolving on the same orbital plane
Implementation Method 2
each optical terminal dedicated to inter-orbital-plane communications being configured and arranged within the inter-satellite communication system so as to present a field of view such that the half-angle at the apex θm of the latter is greater than the maximum absolute value of the azimuthal angle θ of the inter-orbital-plane link during one revolution around the Earth
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an inter-satellite communication device for satellites operating within a satellite constellation.The device includes at least one optical terminal (51) dedicated, in nominal operation, to intra-orbital plane communication links and at least one optical terminal dedicated, in nominal operation, to inter-orbital plane communication links, each optical terminal dedicated to intra-orbital plane communications being configured to transmit and receive optical signals with an optical terminal of the same satellite evolving on the same orbital plane, each optical terminal dedicated to inter-orbital plane communications being configured to transmit and receive optical signals with an optical terminal of the same satellite of an adjacent orbital plane throughout its revolution on its orbital plane and each optical terminal dedicated to inter-orbital plane communications having a field of view such that the half-angle at the apex of the latter is greater than the maximum absolute value of the azimuthal angle θ during a revolution around the Earth.