Secure Satellite Data Processor for Aircraft Encryption
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current satellite communications radio systems for aircraft are unable to utilize the Enhanced SwiftBroadband Safety service due to the lack of technology to form an encrypted connection with a service gateway, limiting secure communication capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A secure communications data processor, comprising an IP interface system separate from the satellite communications radio system, which includes a router, IP processing system, encryption system, and communication manager, enables the formation of an encrypted connection using IP-based packet switching, allowing secure communication between the aircraft and ground facilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing satellite communications transceivers are used, then device complexity is reduced, but secure communication capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an IP interface system as an intermediary component between the existing satellite communications transceiver and the Enhanced SwiftBroadband Safety service. This IP interface system includes IP processing functionality that enables secure IP-based packet switching communications without requiring modifications to the existing transceiver hardware, thus maintaining simplicity while adding security capability.
2Reliability
If encryption technology is added to existing transceivers, then communication security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the communication system into distinct functional components: the existing satellite communications transceiver handles radio frequency operations, while a separate IP interface system handles IP processing and encryption. This segmentation allows encryption technology to be added without complicating the transceiver itself, as the security functions are isolated in the IP interface system.
3Reliability
If IP-based packet switching with encryption is implemented, then communication security is enhanced, but ease of operation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The IP interface system is designed to automatically perform IP processing, encryption, and decryption operations without requiring manual intervention. The system self-manages the formation of encrypted connections with service gateways and handles packet switching operations autonomously, maintaining ease of operation despite the enhanced security functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
In one embodiment, a secure communications processor is provided. The secure communications data processor comprises a satellite datalink gateway; wherein the satellite datalink gateway is configured to translate data, to be transmitted to or received from a satellite communications system, from a first internet protocol to at least one of a second internet protocol or another protocol, and to be received by or transmitted from a router; a satellite communications link processor coupled to the satellite datalink gateway; and wherein the secure communications data processor is configured to be coupled between at least one router and a satellite communications radio system, and to be installed in a vehicle separately from the at least one router and the satellite communications radio system.