Satellite-Based Terrestrial Spectrum Sensing System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for measuring terrestrial wireless spectrum are inefficient and impractical, particularly for wide-scale monitoring, as they rely on costly and time-consuming ground-based measurements, and existing aerial methods are resource-intensive and limited in coverage.
Innovation Solution
A remote sensing system utilizing satellites in orbit around the Earth to passively detect and characterize terrestrial telecommunications and radar transmissions using a passive sensor and digital signal processing, enabling efficient measurement and analysis of spectrum usage across large geographical areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If ground-based spectrum measurements are conducted, then measurement precision can be achieved, but the cost and time required increase significantly for wide-scale monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions spectrum measurement from ground-based (2D surface monitoring) to space-based (3D orbital monitoring). By deploying satellites in orbit, the system achieves wide-scale spectrum monitoring across large geographical areas simultaneously, eliminating the time-consuming sequential ground-based approach while maintaining measurement precision through advanced receivers and signal processing capabilities.
2Area of stationary object
If aerial platforms like helicopters are used for spectrum measurement, then coverage area increases, but resource consumption and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical aerial platforms (helicopters requiring pilots, fuel, and complex ground operations) with orbital satellites. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical flight operations, reducing operational complexity while achieving even greater coverage areas. The satellites use electromagnetic radiation detection rather than mechanical movement to achieve comprehensive spectrum monitoring.
3Area of stationary object
If extensive ground-based measurement networks are deployed, then comprehensive spectrum coverage is achieved, but cost and resource expenditure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal space-based measurement system that serves multiple functions: spectrum monitoring, interference detection, and network planning support. A single satellite constellation can monitor entire continents simultaneously, replacing numerous ground-based measurement networks. This multi-functional approach reduces the total quantity of resources required while achieving comprehensive coverage.
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 comprehensive and efficient measurement of terrestrial spectrum resources, improving spectrum management and network planning by providing valuable insights into usage and interference, thereby maximizing the utility of limited spectrum resources.
Implementation Method 1
electromagnetic energy radiates outward in all directions and some of this energy reaches space
Data Source
AI summary
Energy, data and information is obtained about the state of the electromagnetic spectrum and the nature of terrestrial transmissions through the use of a remote spectrum sensing system. The disclosure comprises at least one satellite in orbit around Earth capable of sensing frequencies in use by terrestrial transmitters such as those used for radiocommunication or radiodetermination services. In addition, various processing functions are applied to the collected energy, data and information before and/or after they are relayed to at least one ground station in order to reveal a greater understanding of the state of the spectrum and nature of transmissions. The disclosure relates to the described system in multiple embodiments and the method for obtaining energy, data and information about terrestrially used spectrum with such a system.