Satellite Inter-Satellite Link Routing via Dual-Orientation Rings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current satellite communication systems face challenges in achieving high-speed and reliable inter-satellite communication due to limitations in existing topologies and protocols, particularly in handling traffic and control packets efficiently across large distances in space.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a two-dimensional dual-ring topology with Resilient Packet Rings (RPR) for inter-satellite links, utilizing a first set of rings in one orientation and a second set of rings in a orthogonal orientation, each comprising two ringlets for bi-directional communication, and incorporating advanced MAC protocols for efficient layer two switching and traffic management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single-ring topology is used for inter-satellite links, then the device complexity is reduced, but the traffic capacity and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The network is segmented into multiple independent rings (first set of rings and second set of rings) instead of using a single ring topology. Each ring provides dedicated protection paths, allowing traffic to be routed around failures without affecting the entire network, thus improving reliability while maintaining manageable complexity through modular structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional single-ring topology to a two-dimensional multi-ring topology where rings are arranged in different orientations (first orientation and second orientation). This dimensional expansion provides multiple spatial paths for traffic routing, enabling simultaneous protection and increased capacity without proportionally increasing node complexity
2Productivity
If traditional routing protocols are used, then the protocol complexity is low, but the path awareness and traffic management efficiency are insufficient for large satellite constellations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where satellites continuously exchange topology discovery messages and status information about node/link availability. This feedback enables dynamic routing decisions based on real-time network conditions, improving traffic management efficiency through adaptive path selection while the structured feedback format keeps protocol complexity manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary topology discovery and path calculation before actual data transmission. Satellites pre-establish routing information and identify alternative paths in advance, allowing rapid traffic management responses without complex real-time computations, thus improving efficiency while maintaining protocol simplicity
Data Source
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AI summary
A constellation of satellites (10, 12, 14, 16; S; 300) form a communication system that includes communication between satellites (10, 12, 14, 16; S; 300) and ground terminals (ST, GW) as well as communication between satellites (10, 12, 14, 16; S; 300). The inter-satellite communication is implemented via wireless network comprising a first set of rings (202, 204, 206, 208, 210, 212, 214) in a first orientation and a second set of rings (230, 232, 234, 236, 238) in a second orientation. Each ring of the first set of rings (202, 204, 206, 208, 210, 212, 214) and the second set of rings (230, 232, 234, 236, 238) comprises two ringlets (202a, 202b) transmitting in opposite directions. Each satellite of the plurality of satellites (10, 12, 14, 16; S; 300) is configured to communicate in a ring of the first set of rings (202, 204, 206, 208, 210, 212, 214) and communicate in a ring of the second set of rings (230, 232, 234, 236, 238).