Personal Communications Device Satellite Path Prediction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile satellite personal communications devices face reliability issues due to obstructions blocking the line of sight between the device and satellites, leading to periods of no service and dropped calls, especially when other communication channels are unavailable.
Innovation Solution
A personal communications device equipped with a control unit that includes location and path algorithms to determine the optimal position and orientation for improved communication with satellites, providing user outputs for recommended movements to enhance line of sight and reliability, utilizing GPS and satellite ephemeris data to guide the user in adjusting the device's position and antenna direction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If mobile satellite personal communications devices are used to provide communications services, then communications coverage is expanded to remote areas, but communication reliability deteriorates due to obstructions blocking line of sight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic satellite selection and handoff mechanisms that continuously monitor signal quality and automatically switch between satellites as the user moves or as satellites traverse the sky. This dynamic adaptation maintains reliable communication despite changing obstruction conditions, resolving the contradiction between wide coverage and communication reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces ground stations as intermediary nodes that receive signals from satellites and relay them to destination phones via land-line networks. This intermediary pathway provides alternative routing when direct satellite-to-satellite paths are blocked, maintaining communication reliability while preserving wide geographic coverage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If LEO satellites are used to provide coverage, then coverage flexibility is improved, but the number of satellites required increases substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the satellite constellation to perform multiple functions: LEO satellites provide primary coverage for mobile devices, while also serving as relay nodes for ground station communications. Ground stations function both as communication endpoints and as intermediate relays. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of satellites needed while maintaining coverage flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Ground stations serve as intermediary nodes that bridge the LEO satellite constellation with terrestrial networks. By introducing these ground-based intermediaries, the system can achieve comprehensive coverage with fewer LEO satellites, as the ground stations provide additional coverage zones and relay capacity without requiring additional orbital satellites.
3Quantity of substance
If GEO satellites are used to provide coverage, then the number of satellites is reduced, but coverage area is limited to specific regions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges LEO and GEO satellite constellations into a unified hybrid system. LEO satellites provide wide-area coverage and mobility support, while GEO satellites provide stable, continuous coverage for fixed or slow-moving users. Ground stations integrate both satellite types into a single network, allowing the system to achieve comprehensive global coverage with a reduced total satellite count compared to using only LEO satellites.
Data Source
AI summary
A personal communications device for communications using a satellite in a satellite communications system. The personal communications device includes a location algorithm for determining the satellite location and the personal communications device location, a path algorithm for predicting an improved communication path between the satellite and the personal communications device, a position change algorithm for determining a recommended change in position of the personal communications device so as to position the personal communications device in the improved communication path.