Software-Defined Satellite Dynamic Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional satellites are inflexible and costly, requiring dedicated hardware for specific functions and becoming obsolete quickly due to the need for radiation-hardened circuitry and strict weight and power budgets, with no possibility of upgrade or repair once in orbit, limiting their adaptability to evolving technologies.
Innovation Solution
A software-defined satellite network with dynamically configurable computing resources, including virtualized hardware and a software-defined network controller, allowing for the implementation of multiple services and network types, such as telecommunications, imaging, and sensor processing, which can be reconfigured in real-time to adapt to changing standards and interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated hardware is used for specific satellite functions, then reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a software-defined satellite platform where a single satellite can perform multiple functions (imaging, communications, sensor processing) by loading different software payloads. This universal platform approach allows the same hardware to serve diverse mission requirements without requiring separate dedicated satellites for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic reconfiguration capabilities where the satellite payload can be updated and reconfigured after launch. The system allows real-time or near-real-time changes to software functionality, enabling the satellite to adapt to new mission requirements or technological advancements without physical hardware modifications.
2Reliability
If radiation-hardened circuitry is used, then reliability is improved, but weight and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional radiation-hardened hardware circuits with software-based signal processing algorithms. By implementing functions such as imaging, communications, and sensor processing through software rather than dedicated hardware, the system achieves radiation tolerance without the weight penalty of hardened circuitry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental implementation parameter from hardware-based to software-based processing. This parameter change allows the same functional requirements to be met with significantly reduced weight, as software can be optimized for computational efficiency rather than requiring physically hardened components.
3Manufacturing precision
If dedicated hardware is used for specific functions, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses software copies or virtual instances of processing functions rather than physical hardware copies. Multiple functional copies can be loaded as software modules on the same hardware platform, eliminating the need for complex hardware duplication while maintaining functional precision through software implementation.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If satellites are designed for long operational lifetime, then durability is improved, but adaptability to evolving technology deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates upgrade capabilities and modular software architecture into the satellite design before launch. This preliminary preparation enables the satellite to receive and install new software versions during operation, allowing it to adapt to evolving technologies while maintaining its long operational lifetime.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic software updates and reconfiguration capabilities that allow the satellite to evolve its functionality over time. The system maintains long operational lifetime through continuous software enhancements rather than requiring hardware replacements, enabling adaptability to new technological standards throughout the satellite's service life.
Data Source
AI summary
A software defined network including a constellation of software defined satellites. Each software defined satellite includes computing resources that are dynamically configurable to provide at least one of a plurality of different types of services. Each software defined satellite further includes an interface that interfaces with a software defined network ground station.