Virtual Beam Timing Synchronization in Satellite Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation process of satellite communication networks is complicated and time-consuming due to the need for precise location information, which can be difficult to obtain, especially in remote areas, affecting initial timing synchronization and terminal location accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that subdivides user beams into virtual beams, with their centers used as accurate terminal location information for initial timing synchronization, allowing the system engineering controller to determine the size and location of each virtual beam based on maximum satellite and remote unit position errors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS or location determining services are used to obtain precise terminal location information, then terminal location accuracy is improved, but device complexity and installation time are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the continuous user beam coverage area into discrete virtual beam regions, each with a defined center point. Instead of requiring precise GPS location determination, the system segments the coverage area into manageable zones where any location within a virtual beam can use its center point for timing synchronization. This segmentation resolves the contradiction by providing sufficient accuracy without complex location determination equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter from requiring continuous precise location coordinates to using discrete virtual beam center points. By transforming the location representation from continuous GPS coordinates to discrete beam center identifiers, the system maintains adequate timing synchronization accuracy while eliminating the need for complex GPS equipment and procedures during installation.
2Measurement precision
If GPS or location determining services are used to obtain precise terminal location information, then terminal location accuracy is improved, but installation time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary division of user beams into virtual beams during system setup, establishing predetermined center points for each virtual beam region. During installation, technicians simply need to determine which virtual beam region contains the terminal and use its pre-calculated center point, eliminating time-consuming GPS location determination and timing synchronization calculations during the installation process.
3Ease of operation
If virtual beams are used to simplify installation, then ease of operation is improved, but timing synchronization accuracy may deteriorate due to position errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the network controller monitors timing synchronization performance and can adjust virtual beam parameters, refine beam divisions, or provide correction information to terminals. This feedback loop ensures that timing synchronization accuracy is maintained even as the system benefits from the simplified virtual beam-based installation process.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for establishing virtual beams for initial timing synchronization in a satellite communication network. The system and method perform operations of estimating, by a controller, a maximum satellite position error associated with an estimated position of a satellite of the satellite communication network within a satellite location space, and estimating, by a controller, a maximum remote unit position error associated with estimated position of a remote unit that is configured to communicate with the satellite of the satellite communication network. The system and method thus establish, by a controller, a size of the virtual beam based on the maximum satellite position error and the maximum remote unit position error.