Broadband communication system for mobile users in a satellite-based network
AssigneeHughes Electronics Corporation
InventorEllen K. Wesel
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A satellite-based communications system operating at high data rates includes a plurality of satellites each having uplink and downlink antennas for transmitting and receiving a plurality of signals utilizing a plurality of spot beams to and from a plurality of coverage areas at a predetermined range of frequencies. The system can include, or be combined with, other systems to enable increased capacity over high population areas and ubiquitous coverage over lower population areas. A portable antenna assembly can be coupled to a user's portable or mobile electronic device for coupling the electronic device directly to a satellite. A routing switch provides routing and switching on-board the satellite and routes signals according to their desired destination.
Claims30
A satellite system operating over a land mass comprising:
- a first satellite generating a first plurality of spot beams directed at said land mass, said first set of spot beams partially covering said land mass;
- a second satellite generating a second plurality of spot beams;
- said first plurality of spot beams and said second plurality of spot beams in combination provide substantially ubiquitous coverage over the land mass.
A portable antenna assembly for communicating with a satellite comprising:
- a connector;
- a transmission wire coupled to said connector;
- and
- an antenna element coupled to said transmission wire, said antenna element sending and receiving signals from said satellite.
A system for communicating with a satellite comprising:
- an electronic device having a communications port;
- and
- a portable satellite antenna coupled to said communications port for coupling said electronic device directly to a satellite.
A switch for use in a satellite system comprising:
- a receiver for receiving a signal from a beam of a signal source;
- a beam router;
- a controller coupled to said receiver, said controller directing the signal to said beam router, said controller controlling the operation of the beam router;
- and
- a bent pipe repeater coupled to said router, said bent pipe repeater directing the signal back to the beam;
- and
- a digital packet switch coupled to said controller to direct the signal to a second beam.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.