Spacecraft Imaging Control via Distributed Small Communicators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing spacecraft imaging systems face limitations in quickly transmitting control data due to the restricted locations and number of ground stations, which hinders efficient image acquisition and data transmission.
Innovation Solution
A spacecraft control system comprising multiple spacecrafts, small communicators, and a ground station, utilizing LPWA-type wireless communication for rapid data transfer, and a server device to determine optimal combinations for imaging operations based on position and environmental data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If ground stations are used to transmit control data to spacecraft, then control data can be transmitted to spacecraft, but the transmission speed is limited due to restricted locations and number of ground stations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the traditional ground station transmission system into multiple small communicators distributed across different locations. Each small communicator independently transmits control data to spacecraft, dividing the original centralized function into multiple distributed units. This segmentation enables faster and more flexible data transmission by utilizing multiple transmission paths simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a ground-based transmission system to a space-based transmission system by deploying small communicators on satellites or other spacecraft. This dimensional change from ground to space enables transmission without being constrained by geographic location, significantly improving both transmission speed and location flexibility.
2Productivity
If multiple small communicators are deployed to transmit control data, then transmission speed and flexibility improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary that manages multiple small communicators. The server receives transmission requests, determines the optimal small communicator for each task based on current satellite positions and task requirements, and coordinates their operations. This intermediary simplifies the complexity by providing centralized management while enabling distributed execution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically changes operational parameters such as which small communicator performs which transmission task based on real-time conditions like satellite positions, communication availability, and task priorities. This parameter optimization enables the system to adapt to changing conditions and maintain high efficiency without requiring fixed complex coordination protocols.
3Loss of time
If ground stations are limited in number and location, then system simplicity is maintained, but the ability to quickly transmit control data to spacecraft is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-positioning multiple small communicators on satellites or spacecraft before transmission tasks are needed. These communicators are prepared in advance and can immediately begin transmission when tasks are assigned, eliminating the need for ground-based transmission delays. The server also pre-calculates optimal communicator assignments based on predicted satellite positions.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a spacecraft control system, a spacecraft control method, and a server device capable of quickly transmitting control data to a spacecraft. The spacecraft system includes: a plurality of spacecrafts; a plurality of small communicators that transmit control data related to imaging operations of the spacecrafts to the spacecrafts; and at least one ground station that receives, from the spacecrafts, captured image data related to images captured by the spacecrafts and space position data for the spacecrafts, and transmits identification data for the small communicators to the spacecrafts, in which each of the spacecrafts includes at least a first reception device that receives the control data transmitted from the small communicators, a control device that controls an imaging operation of the spacecraft on the basis of the control data received by the first reception device, and an imaging device that executes the imaging operation.