Satellite Link Channel Virtualization for IP Network Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Integrating MF-TDMA satellite communication networks into IP networks while maintaining optimized topology and resource utilization is challenging, often requiring additional hardware or non-optimal network design due to the need for separate frequency channels for multiple independent IP networks.
Innovation Solution
Implementing satellite link channel virtualization by creating virtual channels that can be configured to share physical resources, allowing for efficient assignment of time slots and bandwidth, and enabling dynamic adaptation to changing physical channel properties without affecting higher layers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple independent IP networks are connected to one physical satellite communication network using different frequency channels, then network independence and resource isolation are improved, but device complexity and hardware requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the physical frequency channel into multiple virtual channels through logical division. Each virtual channel provides independent network functionality while sharing the same physical infrastructure. The central controlling device creates virtual channel identifiers and assigns time slots to different virtual channels, enabling network independence without requiring separate physical hardware for each network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the physical satellite communication infrastructure universal by enabling it to serve multiple independent IP networks simultaneously through virtualization. A single physical frequency channel can host multiple virtual channels, each functioning as an independent network. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate hardware dedicated to each network while maintaining network independence through logical separation.
2Reliability
If separate frequency channels are used for multiple independent IP networks, then network isolation is improved, but loss of substance (resource utilization) deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple virtual channels onto a single physical frequency channel through time-division multiplexing. Different virtual channels share the same physical resources by being assigned different time slots within the TDMA framework. This combining approach maintains network isolation through logical separation while maximizing resource utilization by eliminating idle capacity that would exist if separate physical channels were allocated to each network.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic resource allocation where the central controlling device can reassign time slots and adjust resource distribution among virtual channels based on changing network demands. This dynamic approach allows the system to optimize resource utilization in real-time while maintaining network isolation, adapting to varying traffic patterns without requiring dedicated static resources for each network.
3Reliability
If additional encapsulation layers are implemented to connect multiple IP networks to one satellite network, then network independence is improved, but device complexity and overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces virtual channels as an intermediary layer between the physical satellite communication infrastructure and the IP networks. These virtual channels act as logical mediators that provide network independence and isolation without requiring complex encapsulation protocols. The central controlling device manages the virtual channel layer, assigning time slots and routing traffic appropriately, thereby simplifying the interface between physical and logical network layers.
4Device complexity
If fixed hardware assignment is used for satellite networks, then device complexity is reduced, but adaptability to changing physical channel properties deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic virtual channel configuration that can adapt to changing physical channel properties through the central controlling device. When satellite conditions change (such as signal quality, available bandwidth, or orbital position), the controlling device can reassign time slots and adjust virtual channel parameters without requiring hardware changes. This dynamic approach maintains simple fixed hardware while achieving adaptability through software-based resource management.
Data Source
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AI summary
There are provided measures for satellite link channel virtualization. Such measures exemplarily comprise setting assignment of assignable physical resources to said at least one virtual channel, and transmitting configuration information indicative of said assignment.