SATCOM Terminal Multi-Orbit Switching for Continuous Connectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing SATCOM terminals in non-terrestrial networks face challenges with continuous connectivity, especially in incomplete satellite constellations, requiring manual initialization by qualified operators and lacking the ability to automatically acquire and utilize dynamic satellite configuration data for optimal connections.
Innovation Solution
A SATCOM terminal equipped with a multi-orbit controller, active multi-beam antenna, and satellite positioning module, enabling automatic acquisition of satellite configuration data from a geostationary satellite and seamless switching to low-Earth orbit satellites for continuous connectivity without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual initialization by qualified operators is used, then the SATCOM terminal can be initialized with satellite configuration data, but the process requires human intervention and is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The SATCOM terminal automatically acquires satellite configuration data through its controller without requiring manual intervention by qualified operators. The system self-initializes by receiving configuration data from geostationary satellites and autonomously processes this information to establish connections with low-Earth orbit satellites, eliminating the need for human operators to perform initialization tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-acquires satellite configuration data from geostationary satellites before needing to connect to low-Earth orbit satellites. This preliminary acquisition of ephemeris and configuration information allows the terminal to be ready for rapid connection when LEO satellites become visible, eliminating the need for manual initialization at the moment of connection.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pre-recorded ephemeris files are used, then the SATCOM terminal can search for LEO satellites, but the terminal cannot adapt to dynamic configuration changes or incomplete constellations
Solution Approach 1:
The SATCOM terminal dynamically updates its satellite configuration data by continuously receiving ephemeris and configuration information from geostationary satellites. This dynamic update mechanism allows the terminal to adapt to changing satellite configurations, incomplete constellations, and moving LEO satellites, maintaining reliable connectivity throughout the service area.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from geostationary satellites to continuously update the configuration data stored in the terminal. The terminal receives feedback information about LEO satellite positions and configurations, processes this information, and adjusts its search and connection parameters accordingly, ensuring continuous adaptability to the current constellation state.
3Reliability
If a complete LEO satellite constellation is deployed, then continuous connectivity can be provided, but the system complexity and deployment cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
Geostationary satellites serve as intermediaries between ground control and low-Earth orbit satellites. The terminal first connects to GEO satellites to acquire configuration data, which then enables connection to LEO satellites. This intermediary approach allows the system to provide continuous connectivity even with an incomplete LEO constellation by using GEO satellites as data acquisition and backup communication nodes.
Data Source
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AI summary
This terminal (10) comprises: an antenna (14) having first and second transmit/receive channels; a first channel (15), respectively a second channel (17), connected to the first transmit/receive channels, respectively to the second transmit/receive channels; a controller (12) adapted to control the antenna (14) and configure the first and second channels, either by establishing a first channel (C1) via a first satellite (20) and using the first transmit/receive channels, or by establishing a second channel (C2) via a second satellite (30) using the second transmit/receive channels, the second satellite belonging to a constellation of orbiting satellites, the controller being adapted to, while the first channel is activated, access a server to retrieve a configuration file of at least the second satellite allowing to activate the second channel.