Satellite Core Network Caching for Feeder Link Interruptions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication systems fail to flexibly respond to the disconnection of a feeder link between a satellite and a ground station, leading to disruptions in user equipment (UE) services.
Innovation Solution
A communication control method and system that determines caching and forwarding functions on transmission data based on communication status information, including caching and forwarding support capability information of network devices and user subscription information, to maintain service continuity during feeder link interruptions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the feeder link is disconnected, then satellite coverage is limited, but UE service continuity is disrupted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by activating caching and forwarding functions before the feeder link actually disconnects. When the network detects feeder link instability or impending disconnection, it proactively caches data packets at the access network device or core network device and prepares forwarding paths through alternative ground stations, ensuring service continuity when the disconnection occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary elements (caching and forwarding functions) between the satellite and UE communication. These intermediaries store data packets locally at access network devices or core network devices and forward them through alternative ground stations when the direct satellite-feeder link is disrupted, acting as buffers that maintain communication flow despite link disconnection.
2Reliability
If caching and forwarding functions are always activated, then service continuity is improved, but network resource waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic adaptation by making caching and forwarding functions conditional rather than permanent. The network dynamically activates these functions based on real-time assessment of feeder link status, satellite coverage conditions, and UE service requirements. When conditions are stable, normal direct routing is used; when instability is detected, caching and forwarding are activated temporarily, and deactivated when stability is restored, optimizing resource utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the network based on detected conditions. It monitors feeder link quality metrics and satellite coverage parameters, and adjusts the caching/forwarding activation state accordingly. This parameter-based control ensures that resource-intensive caching functions are only activated when necessary, balancing service continuity with resource efficiency.
3Reliability
If caching and forwarding functions are activated, then service continuity during disconnection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages existing multi-functional network elements to implement caching and forwarding, avoiding the need for dedicated new hardware. Standard access network devices and core network devices are enhanced with caching capabilities that they can activate when needed, rather than requiring specialized caching equipment. This universal approach reduces overall system complexity while maintaining the required functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication control method is performed by a first core network device. The method includes determining whether to perform caching and forwarding functions on transmission data of a user equipment (UE) based on communication status information in response to a feeder link being about to be interrupted. The communication status information includes at least one of: caching and forwarding support capability information of an access network device, caching and forwarding support capability information of a core network device, or user subscription information.