Satellite Cross-Link Network Using Fore-Aft Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Communication satellite constellations with inclined orbits face challenges in establishing and maintaining simultaneous communication links with multiple satellites across different directions, particularly in forming a mesh communication network that covers entire orbital planes and adjacent orbits efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A communication satellite system with multiple satellites in inclined circular orbits, each equipped with fore-aft communication devices, forms cross-link networks by synchronizing passes over orbital edges, enabling communication between satellites on adjacent planes using fore-aft communication devices, and utilizing radio wave communication for high-capacity and continuous links.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a communication satellite forms simultaneous communication lines with four separate communication satellites through front, back, right, and left communication devices, then a mesh communication network can be created, but it becomes technically challenging to establish and maintain these communication lines
Solution Approach 1:
The communication network is segmented into multiple orbital planes with satellites positioned at specific intervals. Each satellite communicates primarily with adjacent satellites in the same orbital plane, breaking down the complex four-directional mesh into simpler linear segments that are easier to establish and maintain.
Solution Approach 2:
Satellites in adjacent orbital planes serve as intermediary nodes for cross-plane communication. Instead of requiring each satellite to directly communicate with satellites in all directions, the system uses intermediate satellites to relay messages, reducing the direct communication burden on each individual satellite.
2Area of stationary object
If communication satellites use multiple communication devices for simultaneous communication in multiple directions, then comprehensive network coverage is achieved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each satellite is equipped with communication devices that can serve multiple functions: communicating with adjacent satellites in the same orbital plane, relaying messages to other orbital planes, and providing ground communication capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated devices for each communication direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a two-dimensional mesh network requiring four communication directions to a three-dimensional hierarchical structure using multiple orbital planes. This dimensional change allows satellites to use fewer communication devices by leveraging the vertical dimension (different orbital planes) for network connectivity.
3Reliability
If communication lines are established with multiple satellites simultaneously, then network redundancy is improved, but maintaining these communication lines becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-establishes communication protocols and relationships between adjacent satellites in orbital planes before actual communication begins. This preliminary configuration simplifies ongoing maintenance by providing a predictable, structured communication pattern that requires less dynamic adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
Communication between orbital planes occurs at periodic intervals when satellites pass through specific positional relationships. This periodic interaction simplifies maintenance by creating regular, predictable communication windows rather than requiring continuous complex coordination.
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 approach allows for efficient communication between satellites on adjacent orbits at northern and southern edges, reducing the need for complex techniques and ensuring high-capacity communication without breakdowns, thus simplifying the network architecture and enhancing communication reliability.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing radio wave communication for high-capacity and continuous links
Data Source
AI summary
In a communication satellite system (10), communication satellites (20) that fly on respective orbital planes such as an orbit (A), an orbit (B), and an orbit (C) each include a fore-aft communication device for communicating with other communication satellites (20) flying in front of and behind that communication satellite (20). Each of the communication satellites (20) flying in each orbit forms cross-link communication with communication satellites (20) in adjacent orbits at the northern edge of the orbit, indicated by a range (72), and the southern edge of the orbit, indicated by a range (73), using the fore-aft communication device. Thus, communication between orbits becomes possible only with the fore-aft communication device.