Tethered Aerostat LoRa Emergency Communication Network
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing broadband communication networks are unreliable and take a long time to restore after disasters, making it difficult to obtain timely information about trapped survivors during emergencies.
Innovation Solution
A tethered aerostat communication device using a LoRa network with a balloon and air valve control system to establish a low-cost, wide-range, high-reliability narrowband communication network for emergency communication, automatically activating when the WAN communication fails, allowing for quick data transmission via WiFi and LoRa.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If broadband communication networks are used for post-disaster rescue, then high-speed data transmission is achieved, but the network cannot be restored in time after disaster damage
Solution Approach 1:
The communication network is segmented into independent narrowband communication nodes that can operate autonomously. Each node uses a balloon carrier with LoRa communication module that can be independently deployed without relying on the overall network infrastructure, enabling rapid post-disaster communication establishment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs low-cost balloon carriers with integrated communication modules that can be quickly deployed and discarded after use. These disposable-like units eliminate the need for expensive, complex base station infrastructure while providing sufficient communication capability for emergency rescue operations.
2Area of stationary object
If base station-based communication networks are deployed, then comprehensive coverage is achieved, but the system complexity and power supply requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The communication network transitions from ground-based base stations to aerial balloon carriers, adding a vertical dimension to coverage. This dimensional change enables broader coverage area while simplifying the overall system architecture, as balloons can be deployed without complex ground infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The balloon carrier integrates multiple functions including communication (LoRa module), positioning, and data collection into a single platform. This multi-functionality reduces system complexity compared to separate ground-based infrastructure while maintaining comprehensive coverage capability.
3Reliability
If traditional communication devices are used, then stable communication is achieved, but the response time for emergency deployment is too long
Solution Approach 1:
The communication devices are pre-assembled in complete units within the balloon carriers, with all necessary components (LoRa modules, power supplies, antennas) integrated beforehand. This preliminary preparation enables immediate deployment upon balloon release, eliminating assembly time and ensuring rapid response to emergencies.
Solution Approach 2:
The balloon carriers are designed to self-deploy and self-activate upon release. The communication modules automatically initialize and begin operating without requiring manual configuration or external setup, reducing deployment time while maintaining stable communication through automated system checks and calibration.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables rapid establishment of an emergency communication network, effectively covering large areas, reducing rescue costs and improving effectiveness by providing timely information and ensuring high reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a balloon, an air valve control component and a communication sub-system, which are arranged in the box body
Implementation Method 2
The air valve control component and the Lora communication module are detachably connected through a magnetic force
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention discloses a tethered aerostat communication device for post-disaster emergency communication, comprising: a box body, a balloon arranged in the box body, an air valve control component and a communication sub-system, wherein the communication sub-system comprises a WAN communication module, a main controller, communication protocol converters, a LoRa communication module and a power supply system. The bottom of the balloon is connected to the LoRa communication module through a tethered rope. The air valve control component is detachably connected to the LoRa communication module by magnetism. The present invention further discloses a data transmission method and a network organizing communication method which use the tethered aerostat communication device for post-disaster emergency communication.


