Virtual Transponder Inband Telemetry Resource Privacy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transponder systems on vehicles lack resource allocation privacy, as all switching operations are controlled by a single satellite controller, leading to a need for improved resource allocation and control mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of virtual transponders using inband telemetry, which involves encrypting and decrypting commands and telemetry using different communication security varieties to securely reconfigure payload settings and allocate resources independently.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single satellite controller is used to control all transponder switching operations, then the control system is simple and centralized, but resource allocation privacy is lost and multiple users cannot independently manage their resources
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the single satellite controller into multiple virtual controllers (host controller and hosted controllers), each capable of independently controlling specific transponder resources. This segmentation enables resource allocation privacy by allowing each controller to manage its allocated resources without interference from others, while the underlying physical transponder remains shared.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates virtual copies of controller functionality through software-defined controllers that run on the satellite. These virtual controllers (host and hosted) are software-based abstractions that can be dynamically allocated and configured, allowing multiple independent control instances to coexist on a single physical platform without requiring duplicate hardware controllers.
2Productivity
If transponder resources are dynamically reconfigured for different users, then resource utilization efficiency is improved, but the complexity of command and control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables hosted controllers to autonomously manage and reconfigure transponder resources within their allocated permissions. Each hosted controller can independently issue commands, monitor telemetry, and adjust parameters without requiring constant intervention from the host controller or ground operations, thereby simplifying the overall command structure while maintaining high resource utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic resource allocation where transponder configurations can be changed in real-time based on user demands. The system allows flexible reconfiguration of bandwidth, power, and other parameters through software-controlled switches and attenuators, enabling resources to adapt to changing requirements without physical reconfiguration or system downtime.
3Reliability
If multiple communication security varieties are used for different users, then resource allocation privacy and security are enhanced, but the complexity of encryption and decryption operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different encryption schemes (first COMSEC variety for host, second COMSEC variety for hosted users) to different control channels and data streams. This localized application of security measures ensures that each user's communications are protected with appropriate security levels while minimizing the computational burden on the system as a whole, since not all data paths require the highest level of encryption.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and apparatuses for a virtual transponder utilizing inband telemetry are disclosed. A disclosed method for a virtual transponder utilizing inband telemetry comprises receiving, by a vehicle, encrypted host commands from a host spacecraft operations center (SOC). The method further comprises receiving, by the vehicle via the host SOC, encrypted hosted commands from a hosted payload (HoP) operation center (HOC). Also, the method comprises reconfiguring a payload on the vehicle according to unencrypted host commands and/or unencrypted hosted commands. In addition, the method comprises transmitting payload data to a host receiving antenna and/or a hosted receiving antenna. In addition, the method comprises transmitting, by a host telemetry transmitter on the vehicle, encrypted host telemetry to the host SOC. Further, the method comprises transmitting, by the payload antenna, encrypted hosted telemetry to the HOC.