Satellite Terminal-to-Terminal Communication via Ground-Computed Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing satellite communication networks face challenges in establishing secure, ground-based interception-free connections between satellite terminals, as they rely on intermediate ground stations that can be vulnerable to data interception.
Innovation Solution
A system that enables terminal-to-terminal connections in satellite communication networks by using an application server to coordinate connections through satellites, avoiding ground-based stations and networks, and utilizing ground-based processing for routing determinations to conserve satellite resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ground-based stations and networks are used for satellite terminal connections, then routing infrastructure and coverage are improved, but security deteriorates due to ground-based interception risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes ground-based intermediate stations from the communication path between satellite terminals. By establishing direct satellite-to-satellite routing, the system eliminates ground infrastructure that creates security vulnerabilities while maintaining connectivity through space-based routing only.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a satellite-based routing intermediary system that operates entirely in space. The routing function is transferred from ground-based networks to satellite-based control mechanisms, allowing secure end-to-end encryption and routing decisions to be made in orbit rather than through vulnerable ground infrastructure.
2Ease of operation
If satellites perform routing determinations, then terminal-to-terminal connections are established, but satellite operational complexity and resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a ground-based routing determination function as an intermediary that handles complex routing calculations. This ground-based system computes optimal satellite paths and provides routing instructions to satellites, freeing satellite resources from intensive processing while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary routing determination on the ground before satellite communication begins. Routing paths are pre-calculated and instructions are provided to satellites in advance, allowing satellites to simply follow predetermined routes rather than performing real-time complex routing decisions that would consume valuable onboard resources.
3Duration of action of moving object
If ground-based networks are used for satellite handover, then connectivity is maintained, but latency increases due to ground-based routing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the handover process from ground-based networks and relocates it to space-based satellite coordination. By performing satellite handovers directly through satellite-to-satellite signaling without ground station intervention, the system eliminates the additional latency introduced by ground-based routing while maintaining continuous connectivity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including computer programs encoded on computer-storage media, for terminal-to-terminal communication in satellite networks. In some implementations, a system includes an application server that enables a communication session that routes user data between a first terminal and a second terminal over a satellite communication network without routing the user data through any intermediate ground stations.