Satellite Antenna Tilt Control for Polar Coverage Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inclined orbit satellite constellations face challenges in extending coverage to polar regions without the need for additional satellites, which are costly and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The system adjusts the tilt of satellite antennas in inclined orbit constellations based on the satellite's position and orbit parameters to enhance coverage towards the poles, using a controller to dynamically adjust the boresight of the antennas as the satellite moves, thereby increasing coverage without requiring additional satellites.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a second constellation is added specifically for pole coverage, then coverage in polar regions is improved, but system cost and device quantity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the orbital inclination parameter of existing satellites to enable polar coverage. By adjusting the inclination of inclined orbit constellations, the satellites can naturally extend their coverage to polar regions without requiring additional satellites, thus resolving the contradiction between coverage area and satellite quantity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes existing inclined orbit satellites perform dual functions: maintaining their original coverage areas while simultaneously providing polar region coverage through inclination adjustment. This eliminates the need for a separate polar constellation, reducing the total number of satellites required
2Area of stationary object
If antenna tilt is adjusted to extend coverage to polar regions, then coverage area is improved, but signal strength may deteriorate due to scan loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the antenna tilt angle parameter to balance coverage extension and signal strength. By carefully selecting the tilt angle based on orbital inclination, height, and field of view, the system extends coverage to polar regions while minimizing scan loss and maintaining acceptable signal strength
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic antenna tilt adjustment that adapts to the satellite's orbital position and orientation. The tilt angle is continuously optimized based on real-time orbital parameters, allowing the antenna to maintain optimal signal strength while extending coverage dynamically as the satellite moves through its orbit
Data Source
AI summary
Satellite communication systems and methods are disclosed herein. In an embodiment, a satellite communication method includes providing a satellite communication system including a plurality of satellites having inclined orbits, and adjusting a tilt of at least one antenna on at least one satellite of the plurality of satellites so as to increase satellite coverage at a target region.