Satellite Group Task Orchestration Using Distributed Bidding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Centralized planning systems for satellite constellations face challenges in efficiently assigning tasks as the number of satellites grows, requiring in-orbit scheduling to manage collection goals and other tasks effectively.
Innovation Solution
A distributed orchestration method using an auction-style planning and scheduling system, where each satellite evaluates its ability to perform tasks and submits bids based on criteria like access, data quality, and internal priorities, allowing for decentralized task assignment without centralized scheduling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a centralized orchestrator is used to manage a constellation of satellites, then task assignment can be coordinated, but the planning problem becomes more arduous for the centralized planner to resolve as the constellation grows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the centralized orchestration function into distributed components. Each satellite is equipped with an autonomous planning system that can independently evaluate tasks and generate bids, rather than relying on a single centralized planner. This segmentation allows the system to scale to larger constellations without proportionally increasing the complexity of the planning problem, as each satellite handles its own planning decisions based on local capabilities and constraints.
2Reliability
If a centralized planning system manages task assignment, then coordination is achieved, but scalability becomes limited as the constellation grows
Solution Approach 1:
Each satellite in the constellation is equipped with autonomous planning capabilities that allow it to independently evaluate tasks, assess its own capabilities, and generate bids without requiring centralized decision-making for each task assignment. This self-service approach enables the system to scale to larger constellations, as each satellite can autonomously participate in task assignment processes without proportionally increasing the burden on centralized coordination systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If satellites autonomously evaluate and bid on tasks, then scalability improves, but communication bandwidth requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a bid-based task assignment mechanism where satellites submit condensed information packets (bids) containing only the essential data needed for task assignment decisions, rather than exchanging complete capability profiles or detailed operational parameters. This partial action approach allows autonomous evaluation and bidding to proceed with limited communication bandwidth, as each bid contains only the critical information needed for the assignment process rather than comprehensive satellite data.
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes receiving, at a specified device among a plurality of devices, a first request to perform a first task. The method also includes transmitting multiple bid requests associated with the first task to multiple other devices among the plurality of devices. The method further includes receiving, at the specified device, at least one bid response from at least one of the other devices. In addition, the method includes assigning performance of the first task to one or more of the plurality of devices based on the at least one bid response. Each bid response may include a quality and a timeliness associated with the one of the devices' ability to perform the first task. Multiple bid responses may be received, and the method may further include ranking the bid responses based on at least one quality or timeliness factor identified by a party providing the first request.