Dynamic effective isotropic radiated power spectral density control

An aeronautical satellite broadband communications system has an antenna defined by a transmit gain pattern varying according to an orientation relative to a geostationary orbit satellite. An antenna controller unit is connected to an aircraft inertial navigation system and receptive to navigation data therefrom, and a set of antenna orientation data is derived from the navigation data on a real-time basis. A broadband controller connected to the antenna controller unit generates a set of output variables as a function of normalized equivalent isotropic radiated power spectral density values of the antenna and the set of antenna orientation data. The set of output variables controls the output power and carrier bandwidth of transmissions from the antenna within predefined limits of equivalent isotropic radiated power spectral density that vary with values of the set of antenna orientation data.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not Applicable

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BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to satellite communication systems installed onboard aircraft, and more particularly, to dynamic effective isotropic radiated power (EIRP) spectral density control in an adaptive single channel per carrier (A-SCPC) link for use in aeronautical satellite broadband communications (ASBC).

2. Related Art

With terrestrial data connectivity being almost ubiquitous because of the widespread deployment of broadband access modalities, customer demand for the same level of access across additional environments, including commercial aviation, is increasing. In addition to delivering various media content to passengers via seat-back display units and personal electronic devices, in-flight entertainment and communications (IFEC) systems also incorporate satellite communication capabilities that allow continuous access to e-mail, instant messaging, banking services, file sharing, and countless other productivity applications that rely on Internet service. Such satellite-based broadband Internet access, as deployed in an aircraft environment, may be generally referred to as Aeronautical Satellite Broadband Communications (ASBC).

Personal electronic devices typically connect to an IFEC system via a local area wireless network implemented with, for example, WiFi access points located throughout the cabin. The IFEC system also includes or cooperates with a satellite link terminal that is in communication with a geosynchronous orbit (GSO) satellite, which in turn is in communication with a ground station that is connected to the Internet. There may be up to a dozen satellites in the network spaced around the Earth. The seatback terminal display devices may also be connected to the satellite link terminal via a wired local network connection. Onboard data traffic is thus routed through the wired and/or wireless aircraft network, to the satellite link module, to the satellite, and then to the ground station. Preferably, continuous global coverage and uniform service throughout flights is provided over varying operating conditions.

The satellite link terminal is generally comprised of an antenna, a broadband controller, and a modem, together which establish an Adaptive Single Channel Per Carrier (A-SCPC) link to the satellite. The aircraft-mounted antenna may be a low-profile electronically steered type, high-profile, mechanically-steered type, or a very small diameter parabolic type. The radiation characteristics change based on the target satellite, the location of the aircraft relative to the satellite, and the three-axis orientation of the aircraft. Most ASBC providers utilize either the low-profile, electrically steered antenna or the high-profile, mechanically steered antenna. Low-profile, electrically steered antennas have radiation patterns, beam widths, and gains that vary with scan angle, skew angle, and azimuthal angle towards the satellite. High-profile, mechanically steered antennas, on the other hand, produce uniform gain, but the gain pattern and the beam width projected toward the satellite vary with skew angle. A very small diameter parabolic antenna has a large beam width, but the gain pattern does not change as a function of elevation, skew angle, and azimuthal angle toward the satellite.

With a high-profile, mechanically steered antenna that is mounted to the aircraft, the beam width projected toward the satellite is understood to increase as the skew angle, i.e., the angular offset between the antenna beam axis and the satellite, increases from 0° to 90°. With the increase in beam width, which is elliptical in shape along three dimensions, the greater the possibility of the transmissions to interfere with an adjacent satellite in geostationary orbit. Accordingly, the prevention of such interference in the operation of ASBC is desirable.

There are strict regulatory restrictions in place both domestically in the United States of America as well as internationally for providers of satellite broadband communications, particularly for aeronautical operations. The United States Federal Communications Commission, for example, requires all Earth Station Aboard Aircraft (ESAA) operators to comply with 47 C.F.R. § 25.227 when transmitting to a geostationary orbit satellite, that is, operating with a geostationary orbit fixed satellite service (FSS). In further detail, subsection (a)(1)(i)(A) of § 25.227 specifies Equivalent Isotropically Radiated Power (EIRP) spectral density (ESD) limits for emissions in the plane tangent to the geostationary orbit arc of a satellites. For an off-axis angle θ of between 1.5° and 7°, the maximum EIRP is −21-25 log10θ dBW/Hz, for an off-axis angle θ between 7° and 9.2°, the maximum EIRP is −42 dBW/Hz, for an off-axis angle θ between 9.2° and 19.1°, the maximum EIRP is −18-25 log10θ dBW/Hz, and for an off-axis angle θ between 19.1° and 180°, the maximum EIRP is −50 dBW/Hz. The International Telecommunications Union imposes similar, but less stringent EIRP limits on earth station fixed satellite service (FSS) operators. Many countries worldwide adopt either the ITU or U.S. FCC requirements for operators within their jurisdiction. Satellite operators themselves also enter into coordination agreements between themselves on ESD limits to prevent mutual interference and impose these requirements on ASBC through contractual lease requirements. Operating frequency band, overlapping coverage of the satellite beam, and the negotiation between the satellite operators may further change such limits. However, because ASBC service are utilized worldwide, compliance requirements may vary significantly.

In order to comply with the foregoing EIRP restrictions such that the spectral density falls below permissible limits, the operation of the satellite terminal may be variously adjusted. The manipulable parameters include the transmitted EIRP, the channel/carrier bandwidth, and the elevation, azimuth and skew angle of operation. With ASBC-equipped aircraft have global reach, the varying EIRP spectral density restrictions make operations difficult, even while the cost and efficiency penalties for maintaining such compliant operations is high. Conventionally, compliance is ensured by first defining a desired service area per satellite beam. Then, limits are set on where the aircraft can operate within the beam. These limits ensure that the no transmissions take place outside of the service area. The aircraft roll and pitch limits within a service area is then determined, and the maximum skew angle for a given coverage region and aircraft roll/pitch is calculated. A maximum skew angle limit is set that cannot be exceeded during operation. The EIRP of the antenna and/or the modem input levels for the maximum skew angle condition is calculated, and a carrier bandwidth consistent with such EIRP is created. The satellite terminal is operated with a fixed carrier bandwidth and the calculated EIRP limit, and the optimum data rate for the carrier bandwidth is delivered.

This approach is understood to ensure compliance by controlling the EIRP spectral density to the permissible limit and applying a power limit mask to reduce transmission power. However, there are substantial penalties because the terminal operating conditions are set for the worst case, e.g., the highest skew location within a limited service area. For a fixed service such as a very small aperture terminal (VSAT), this is an acceptable approach. For mobile operations as with ESAA, there is a large service area within which compliance to varying regulatory limits must be maintained at all times. The conventional approach assumes the worst operating coverage and the worst aircraft roll/pitch for a particular satellite, even while operating under more ideal conditions.

Different flight positions for a given satellite coverage strength may require different carrier bandwidth, and operate with different spectral efficiency. A typical satellite capacity cost is $2500/MHz per month, and the higher the spectral efficiency, the lower the cost to deliver a given data rate. Generally, skew is minimized when the antenna/aircraft is directly north or south of the satellite. In one exemplary ESAA service, the satellite may have a geostationary orbit almost directly south of New York, USA. (Exemplary as used throughout this disclosure means as an example, and not necessarily the best or optimal implementation/embodiment). Satellite connectivity service for an aircraft operating near New York may thus cost $1,717 per Mbps per month, as the spectral efficiency is higher. Continuing with this example, for an aircraft operating near Los Angeles International Airport, satellite service may cost $4,166 per Mbps per month because of the lower spectral efficiency. Yet, with the conventional approach to EIRP spectral density compliance, because the worst operating conditions are assumed (e.g., the configuration for the flight operating near Los Angeles), the same cost per Mbps per month is understood to apply to the aircraft operating in different locations.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for aeronautical satellite broadband communication systems in which waste of satellite bandwidth is reduced while remaining compliant with EIRP spectral density regulator limits to avoid interference with adjacent satellites. There is also a need for such satellite broadband communications systems to maintain regulatory compliance while delivering a consistent level of service despite aircraft position and orientation relative to the satellite. As a result, there is a need for dynamic EIRP spectral density control in an adaptive single channel per carrier link for use in aeronautical satellite broadband communications system.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Disclosed is an aeronautical satellite broadband communications system with dynamic equivalent isotropic radiated power spectral density control in an adaptive single channel per carrier link. The system is contemplated to maximize satellite coverage to its full potential based on location of the aircraft and the orientation of the onboard antenna to the satellite. Furthermore, the data rate that may be delivered is fully adaptive and has not fixed or static limit, and a communications remain operational even when the aircraft exceeds skew limit during roll and pitch maneuvers. Substantial cost savings associated with satellite services may also be realized over conventional techniques.

According to one embodiment, an aeronautical satellite broadband communications system may include an antenna defined by a transmit gain pattern varying according to an orientation relative to a geostationary orbit satellite. There may also be an antenna controller unit that is connected to an aircraft inertial navigation system and receptive to navigation data therefrom. A set of antenna orientation data may be derived from the navigation data on a real-time basis. The system may also include a broadband controller that is connected to the antenna controller unit. The broadband controller may also be generating a set of output variables as a function of normalized equivalent isotropic radiated power spectral density values of the antenna derived from the transmit gain pattern and the set of antenna orientation data. The set of output variables may control output power and carrier bandwidth of transmissions from the antenna within predefined limits of equivalent isotropic radiated power spectral density that vary with values of the set of antenna orientation data. The system may further include a satellite modem connected to the antenna and to the broadband controller. The output power and carrier bandwidth of the satellite modem to the antenna may be set based upon the output variables from the broadband controller.

Another embodiment of the present disclosure is a method for controlling equivalent isotropic radiated power spectral density of a communications link between an aircraft and a geosynchronous orbit satellite. The method may include a step of retrieving navigation data from an avionics bus of the aircraft, as well as a step of selecting a satellite beam from a plurality of available satellite beams for establishing the communications link to the geosynchronous orbit satellite. Each of the satellite beams may be associated with a regulatory compliance mask. There may also be a step of retrieving antenna orientation data from an antenna controller unit. The antenna orientation data may be derived from the navigation data, and further may be representative of an orientation of the antenna relative to the geosynchronous orbit satellite. The method may further include generating, on a broadband controller, a set of output variables as a function of the antenna orientation data, a set of normalized equivalent isotropic radiated power spectral density values for an antenna mounted to the aircraft, and the regulatory compliance mask. The method may also include relaying the output variables to a modem. An output power and a carrier bandwidth of the satellite beam transmitted from the antenna may be controllable by the output variables for transmissions to be within predefined limits of equivalent isotropic radiated power spectral density.

There is also an embodiment in which the foregoing steps of the method are implemented as a series of computer or machine-readable instructions that are executed by a data processor. The present disclosure will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of the several presently contemplated embodiments of dynamic equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP) spectral density control in an adaptive single channel per carrier (A-SCPC) link. This description is not intended to represent the only form in which the embodiments of the disclosed invention may be developed or utilized. The description sets forth the functions and features in connection with the illustrated embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that the same or equivalent functions may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure. It is further understood that the use of relational terms such as first and second and the like are used solely to distinguish one from another entity without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities.

FIG. 1is a simplified diagram of an aircraft10, generally referred to herein as a vehicle, along with select subsystems and components thereof that represent an exemplary environment in which an aeronautical satellite broadband communications (ASBC) may be implemented. Within a fuselage12of the aircraft10, there may be seats14arranged over multiple rows16, with each seat14accommodating a single passenger.

The aircraft10incorporates an in-flight entertainment and communications (IFEC) system18, through which various entertainment and connectivity services may be provided to passengers while onboard. A typical IFEC system18includes individual seat-back modules comprised of a terminal unit20, a display22, an audio output24, and a remote controller26. For a given row16of seats14, the terminal unit20and the audio output24are disposed on the seat14for which it is provided, but the display22and the remote controller26may be disposed on the row16in front of the seat14to which it is provided. That is, the display22and the remote controller26are installed on the seatback of the row in front of the seat. This is by way of example only, and other display22and remote controller26mounting and access configurations such as a retractable arm or the like mounted to an armrest of the seat14or by mounting on a bulkhead.

The display22is understood to be a conventional liquid crystal display (LCD) screen or other type with a low profile that is suitable for installation on the seatback. Each passenger can utilize an individual headset28, supplied by either the airline or by the passenger, which provides a more private listening experience. In the illustrated embodiment, the audio output24is a headphone jack that is a standard ring/tip/sleeve socket. The headphone jack may be disposed in proximity to the display22or on the armrest of the seat14as shown. The headphone jack may be an active type with noise canceling and including two or three sockets or a standard audio output without noise canceling. In alternate embodiments, each display22may incorporate a terminal unit20to form a display unit referred to in the art as a smart monitor.

A common use for the terminal unit20installed on the aircraft10is the playback of various multimedia content. The terminal unit20may be implemented with a general-purpose data processor that decodes the data files corresponding to the multimedia content and generates video and audio signals for the display22and the audio output24, respectively. The multimedia content data files may be stored in one or more repositories associated with the IFEC system18, and each of the terminal units20for each seat14may be connected thereto over a local area network30, one segment of which may preferably be Ethernet. The IFEC system18thus includes a data communications module32, and more specifically, an Ethernet data communications module32a, e.g., an Ethernet switch or router.

One or more passengers may utilize a portable electronic device (PED)34during flight. For purposes of the present disclosure, PEDs34refer to smart phones, tablet computers, laptop computers, and other like devices that include a general purpose data processor that executes pre-programmed instructions to generate various outputs on a display, with inputs controlling the execution of the instructions. Although these devices are most often brought on board the aircraft10by the passengers themselves, carriers may also offer them to the passengers for temporary use.

Almost all conventional PEDs34have a WLAN (WiFi) module, so the data communications module32of the IFEC system18includes a WLAN access point32b. The PED34, via the onboard WLAN network, may connect to the IFEC system18to access various services offered thereon such as content downloading/viewing, shopping, and so forth. The local area network interface or data communications module32is understood to encompass the hardware components such as the WLAN access point32band the Ethernet router/switch32a, as well as the software drivers that interface the hardware components to the other software modules of the IFEC system18.

The IFEC system18may also offer Internet access to the connecting terminal units20as well as the PEDs34. One contemplated modality that operates with the IFEC system18is a satellite terminal36that establishes an uplink38to a communications satellite40. The data transmitted to the communications satellite40is relayed to a satellite communications service provider42. A downlink44is established between the communications satellite40and the satellite communications service provider42that, in turn, includes a network gateway46with possibly a connection to the Internet48or other wide area network.

The terminal unit20or the PED34is understood to connect to the IFEC system18via the local area network30established by the data communications module32, which relays the data transmissions to the satellite terminal36. The data is transmitted to the communications satellite40over the uplink38, and the communications satellite40relays the data to the satellite communications service provider42over the downlink44. The network gateway46then routes the transmission to the Internet48.

The aircraft10is comprised of multiple independent systems, and the IFEC system18discussed above is one such independent system. Separate from the IFEC system18is the avionics system50, which is understood to encompass the electronics system for the flight controls and the inertial navigation system of the aircraft10, along with communications with air traffic control and airline operations, ground-based and satellite-based navigation systems, flight management/monitoring systems, collision avoidance systems, flight recorders, and weather systems. The present disclosure contemplates the dynamic control of satellite uplink transmission parameters based upon aircraft navigational data to provide global coverage while maintaining compliance with various equivalent isotropic radiation power spectral density limits over multiple jurisdictions/locales and varying aircraft orientations (along three axes) during flight.

As is known in the art, aeronautical satellite broadband communications (ABSC) is implemented with a network of dozens of communications satellites40in geostationary orbit at various locations around the earth. Each of the communications satellites40are understood to have different spacing to adjacent satellites, and the disclosed system is contemplated to avoid interference therewith despite varying signal stretch and beam overlap.

One exemplary implementation of the satellite network utilizes a time division multiple access (TDMA) channel sharing modality/inbound multiple access. As will be understood by those in the art, TDMA allocates different timeslots for each node in the network, with a given node transmitting only during its dedicated timeslot. Carrier bandwidth is targeted for a specific data rate, and to the extent a higher data rate is requested, additional time slots are dedicated to that node for a fixed carrier bandwidth. With TDMA systems, carrier bandwidth is understood to be larger because resource sharing is in the time domain, and with a larger carrier bandwidth, reduction in EIRP spectral density, abbreviated herein to ESD, is possible.

In further detail, and as briefly noted above, the satellite terminal36includes a modem that implements single channel per carrier (SCPC). Each aircraft has a dedicated carrier, and the bandwidth can change based on aircraft demand. The size of the carrier is generally smaller than for conventional TDMA modalities, which may result in an increased ESD. Maintaining regulatory compliance with conventional TDMA is based upon a fixed bandwidth, but because of the time-varying bandwidth of the SCPC satellite communications network, various alternatives for ensuring compliance is contemplated in accordance with the present disclosure.

Referring now to the block diagram ofFIG. 2, the satellite terminal36is generally comprised of an antenna controller unit52, a broadband controller54, a satellite modem56, and an antenna58that is mounted to the aircraft10. Those having ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the satellite terminal36and its functional subparts can be arranged and organized in any number of different configurations. Furthermore, there may be additional components not mentioned herein performing various functions that are described only in general terms. For example, the satellite modem56is also connected to the local area network30of the aircraft, and passes the data traffic originating therefrom or destined thereto via a gateway or other device, but such devices and connections are not shown, nor described in additional detail. Certain described functions may be handled by a different subpart or component than that to which the present disclosure attributes.

The present disclosure contemplates the dynamic control of equivalent isotropic radiated power (EIRP) spectral density (ESD) by controlling satellite uplink parameters in real-time based on the operation of the aircraft, specifically the location of the aircraft10, the location of the communications satellite40, the current maneuvers of the aircraft10, and the performance characteristics of the antenna58. The satellite terminal36is configured to optimize the bandwidth used to deliver the demanded data rate at any given location, while remaining within regulatory ESD limits for such location.

The ESD of a given RF (radiofrequency) transducer, that is, the antenna58, is in large measure dependent upon the performance parameters thereof. Referring toFIG. 3, a typical high profile aeronautical antenna is characterized by a rectangular aperture60. RF signal transmissions from this antenna may be defined in terms of a beam, and is depicted as an elliptical cross section62. This elliptical beam, in turn, is defined by an azimuth beamwidth64a, and an elevation beamwidth64b. Generally, the antenna58is defined by a transmit gain or radiation pattern that varies according to is orientation relative to the communications satellite40. The graph ofFIG. 4illustrates the variations in antenna gain pattern, given in dBi, over different off-axis angles and skew angle but with a fixed elevation angle.

According to one embodiment, the transmit radiation pattern may be measured in an anechoic chamber and tabulated as shown in the example table ofFIG. 5. The gain value for a particular intersect of the off-axis angle between −5° and +5°, and the skew angle between 0° and 90° is provided. That is, each row corresponds to a particular skew angle, and each column corresponds to a particular off-axis angle. The range of elevation angle can span between 0° and 90°, the range of skew angle can likewise span between 0° and 90°, and the range of azimuthal angle can span between 0° and 360°. The off-axis angle may be between −180° and +180°. A three-dimensional, full hemispherical pattern at various geometrical conditions is thus derived.

Depending on the type of the antenna58, the radiation pattern is understood to be different for varying skew angles, elevation angles, and azimuthal angles. The skew angle, elevation angle, and azimuthal angle may be more generally referred to as an orientation of the antenna58relative to the communications satellite40. Although the exemplary embodiment described herein utilizes an antenna58with simultaneously varying skew angle and elevation angle, it will be appreciated that other antennas in which only the skew angle varies, only the elevation angle varies, or all three of the skew angle, elevation angle, and azimuthal angle varies are also possible. In such embodiments, suitable modifications to the measured data and the organization thereof are deemed to be within the purview of those skilled in the art.

The aforementioned antenna transmit gain data is used to derive corresponding equivalent isotropic radiated power density values, as regulatory compliance for earth station aboard aircraft satellite transmissions is based on ESD rather than antenna gain. The ESD for a given off-axis angle is given by:

TxGain+AmpPower-10⁢⁢log10⁡(BandwidthRollOffFactor).
As referenced herein, TxGain is the specific gain value for a given off-axis angle, AmpPower is the output power of the amplifier to which the antenna58is connected, and Bandwidth is the carrier bandwidth of the uplink38. It is understood that ESD is a function of amplifier power and bandwidth, and so one embodiment of the present disclosure contemplates the adjustment of ESD by controlling the amplifier power and the transmission signal bandwidth. For a given skew angle and elevation angle, the reduction of the amplifier power and/or increase in the bandwidth is understood to result in the concomitant reduction of ESD to be below regulatory compliance limits. However, to the extent the cost penalty for output power and bandwidth reductions is too high, it is also possible to limit skew angle and/or the elevation angle for which the satellite terminal36is permitted to operate.

With the antenna transmit gain pattern being converted to the ESD values, a regulatory mask is overlaid as an envelope for ensuring compliance.FIGS. 6A and 6Bboth include a plot of such regulatory compliance mask66. In further detail,FIG. 6Aalso includes a plot68aof the computed ESD values over a range of axis angles between −10° and 10°, for the minimum skew angle.FIG. 6B, on the other hand, includes a plot68bof the computed ESD values over the same range of axis angles between −10° and 10°, but for the maximum skew angle. The limits for the regulatory mask may be based upon FCC (U.S. Federal Communications Commission) limits set forth in 47 C.F.R. § 25.227, but this is by way of example only and not of limitation. Limits and restrictions imposed in other jurisdictions outside of the United States may also be used to compute the regulator mask.

For antennas that are not characterized by grating lobes, the on-axis ESD is understood to be the maximum ESD at the transmission axis or 0° off-axis angle. In this regard, the regulatory mask is characterized by a mask opening70corresponding to the transmission axis, and off-axis angles within 1.5° or more thereof. By reducing the power and/or increasing the bandwidth, the ESD from the antenna58is understood to be reduced so that the limits on the ESD imposed by the regulatory compliance mask66are met. Continuing with the examples illustrated inFIG. 6A, the ESD at ±6.2° off-axis angles, e.g., the fourth side lobes, meet the regulatory compliance mask66.FIG. 6Billustrates the plot68bof the ESD at ±4.6° off-axis angles, e.g., the main beam, likewise meet the regulatory compliance mask66. The maximum ESD at the beam peak or the on-axis angle for which either the main beam or side lobes first intersect with the regulatory compliance mask66is understood to define the maximum permitted ESD for the particular combination of the skew angle and elevation angle. As can be seen from the illustrated ESD plots ofFIGS. 6A and 6B, the on-axis ESD may be significantly different between the minimum skew angle and the maximum skew angle for a given elevation angle.

The graphical representation of using the regulatory compliance mask66to arrive at the peak ESD was described, but the same computations may be represented in the following tabular form shown in Table 1. In particular, the first row of values correspond to the example shown in relation to the plot68aofFIG. 6A, and the second row of values correspond to the example shown in relation to the plot68bofFIG. 6B. The carrier bandwidth, the EIRP back-off from the peak antenna EIRP, the skew angle, the elevation angle, the off-axis angle where the ESD and the regulatory compliance mask66first intersect, and the peak ESD have been derived for each example.

For antennas that have gain patterns that vary with elevation angle and skew angle, there is understood to be a high number of data points that are used to characterize the on-axis ESD limits. According to one embodiment of the present disclosure, these computations are repeated in 1° increments in elevation angle from 0° to 90°, as well as for increments in skew angle from the same 0° to 90° range. In this embodiment, there is understood to be 8100 unique data points.

Due to the complications arising from processing multiple variables that change for each condition, at least one of the variables is normalized to a constant. Carrier bandwidth is one of the variables that can be manipulated to control ESD, and so according to one embodiment, this variable may be one candidate for normalization. More particularly, EIRP back off is re-derived by the following computation:

Continuing with the example shown in Table 1 above, Table 2 below illustrates the recomputed values as such:

This normalization procedure is contemplated to reduce the number of variables that must be manipulated, and can be repeated for unique pairs of elevation angles and skew angles. With the values being normalized to a fixed carrier bandwidth, the on-axis ESD/beam peak ESD can also be normalized to its peak value. With the maximum beam peak ESD being the starting point and assigned a zero value, the remaining beam peak ESD values are computed relative to the normalized beam peak ESD. Continuing with the examples shown in Tables 1 and 2 above, Table 3 below illustrates the values adjusted according to a normalized beam peak ESD.

Both the EIRP back-off and the beam peak ESD are understood to remain the same, except for the sign reversal.

From the computed ESD values for a given antenna, the carrier bandwidth is recomputed to be constant for all normalized ESD values, and may then be referred to as a reference bandwidth. The Beam peak ESD values are then normalized and combined with the EIRP back-off. The off-axis angle values to limit ESD are discarded, since the on-axis or 0° off-axis ESD value is available. A new table is generated with rows corresponding to the range of elevation angles and columns corresponding to skew angles. A normalized ESD value is thus given for each unique combination of elevation angles and skew angles, (of which there are 8,100, as noted above) with the particular table being associated with a fixed or reference bandwidth. An example of such a table is shown inFIG. 7, and a graphical representation of the normalized ESD values for the entire range of skew angles and elevation angles being depicted inFIGS. 8A and 8B. The density is understood to represent the depth of the normalized ESD value.

Briefly referring back to the graph ofFIGS. 6A and 6B, the mask opening70corresponds to the transmission axis as well as off-axis angles of 1.5°. Those ends of the regulatory compliance mask66that define the mask opening70are generally understood to be consistent with the angular separation of the communications satellites40in the geostationary orbit arc. A greater number of communications satellites40are positioned in geostationary orbit near North America, and thus a smaller angular separation is needed. However, a fewer number of satellites are positioned in other regions such as over the Atlantic Ocean or the Pacific Ocean, and so the angular separation between the communications satellites40is understood to be larger. Oftentimes, a satellite may negotiate with neighboring satellites to permit certain mask opening angles, which may depart from the standard regulatory requirements.

When the aircraft is within the jurisdiction of the United States Federal Communications Commission, the mask opening is understood to be approximately 1.5°. However, wider mask openings are possible in other areas such as over sparsely populated airspace above the ocean, for which the mask opening may be 3.5°. In such cases, the off-axis angle and the corresponding regulatory compliance mask66begins at ±3.5° instead of ±1.5°, and the normalized ESD values for such different mask opening may also be computed. By way of comparison, the graphical representation shown inFIG. 8B, for a 3.5° mask opening, shows a normalized ESD value profile that is different than that of the 1.5° mask opening. In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, multiple sets of normalized ESD value tables can be generated for 1.5°, 2.0°, 2.5°, 3.0°, 3.5°, 4.0°, 4.5°, 5.0°, and 5.5° mask openings, and this range is understood to accommodate most cases globally.

Another embodiment contemplates defining the most common mask opening, e.g., that of the U.S. FCC regulatory mask of 1.5°, as a benchmark, and applying an offset relative to that benchmark. In further detail, the mask opening offset is computed thus: Mask Opening Offset (φ)=Normalized ESD (φ)−Normalized ESD (1.5), where φ is the different mask opening. The normalized ESD values are recomputed based upon this mask opening offset, with the graphical representation ofFIG. 9illustrating the applicable offset between a 3.5° mask opening and a 1.5° mask opening.

With reference again to the block diagram ofFIG. 2, various embodiments of the present disclosure envision the dynamic control of ESD by controlling satellite uplink parameters in real-time. In this regard, one embodiment contemplates a method for controlling the ESD of the communications link between the aircraft10and the communications satellite40, e.g., the uplink38. The steps of this method are shown in the flowchart ofFIG. 10, which begins with a system startup step100.

As indicated above, control of the ESD is based at least in part on the performance characteristics of the antenna58that are defined in the aforementioned tables of normalized ESD values arranged according to skew angle and elevation angle. Additionally, however, and referring back to the block diagram ofFIG. 2, control of the ESD is also based in part on the operation of the aircraft, which includes the location of the aircraft10and the orientation of the antenna58relative to the communications satellite40. This information may be retrieved from an inertial navigation system72of the aircraft10, which provides, in real-time, the aircraft latitude, longitude, roll, pitch, and heading. The step102of obtaining aircraft location identification corresponds to his retrieval step. The inertial navigation system72may be connected to an ARINC (Aeronautical Radio, Incorporated) data bus78, from which the broadband controller54receives this data. The antenna controller unit52of the satellite terminal36may also be connected to the aircraft inertial navigation system72via the ARINC data bus78to receive and further process this aircraft navigation data.

Continuing with the discussion of the steps of the method for controlling ESD shown inFIG. 10, there is a satellite beam selection step104. Various embodiments contemplate a satellite beam list80from which this selection is made, and a specific mask offset value82and a mask opening offset value84associated with the selected satellite beam is retrieved. These values are processed in a subsequent step, and will be described in further detail below. Additional antenna parameters utilized in the subsequent steps to dynamically control ESD from the antenna58, including a skew angle value86and an elevation angle value88relative to the communications satellite40may be computed from the navigation data by the antenna controller unit52.

In general terms, the broadband controller54computes a set of output variables to the satellite modem56that controls its operation, including the output power and the bandwidth in a computation step106. This computation contemplated to be a function of the normalized ESD values of the antenna58that are derived from the transmit gain pattern as discussed above, as well as the antenna orientation data, e.g., the skew angle value86and the elevation angle value88. Additionally, the computation may include the regulatory compliance mask66, specifically as defined by the mask offset value82and the mask opening offset value84.

As discussed above, the normalized ESD values are pre-computed and provided as a loadable data file90. According to one embodiment, the loadable data file90may be in a comma-separated-value (CSV) file format, with different files corresponding to various antenna types that varies gain for elevation and/or skew angle. It is understood that one file per antenna type is need to store the normalized ESD values in a tabular format. This tabular data file is accompanied by a reference bandwidth that is used to normalize the other variable values.

As part of performing the computation step106, the output power value from the broadband controller54is mapped to the maximum EIRP of the antenna58. The relationship between the output power value and the maximum EIRP is understood to vary from aircraft to aircraft, depending on certain installation specifics. Generally, however, maximum equivalent isotropic radiated power is given by: A−System Loss+System Gain, where A corresponds to the broadband controller output power value that is mapped to the maximum EIRP of the antenna58.

The maximum EIRP of a particular antenna is understood to be the same regardless of installation, but the output power values from the broadband controller54to produce the same output EIRP may vary based on system losses and gains. As will be recognized by those having ordinary skill in the art, some antennas perform gain compensation that automatically adjusts the gain and losses to produce the same EIRP for a given broadband controller output power.

Additional adjustments to the mapping A between the broadband controller output power value and the maximum EIRP of the antenna58are also contemplated for other factors. These include different gain response to frequency, degradation of antenna gains over time, and so forth. Including a saturated power offset, x, is contemplated to account for any adjustments needed for each terminal and uplink beam, where Ax=A (antenna, beam)+x (antenna, beam).

The normalized ESD values are then mapped to a function of the skew angle value86and the elevation angle value88for a given reference bandwidth. It is possible to introduce an offset to the normalized ESD values with a new variable An, thus: B=A (antenna, beam)+x (antenna, beam)+Normalized ESD (skew, elevation)

Turning back to the mask offset value82and the mask opening offset value84, because aeronautical broadband satellite communications (ASBC) is envisioned for global service, different regulatory compliance masks66may apply while the aircraft10is in different regions, or communicating with specific satellites40. As mentioned above, some satellites may also require a different mask than the broadly applicable and benchmark FCC mask. Referring to the graph ofFIG. 11, the mask offset value82is that which is associated with a satellite beam, and applies proportionally to all off-axis angles. The original, FCC-benchmark mask is shown as a plot89a, and the mask with the offset is shown as a plot89b. This value typically does not change during the lifespan of the satellite beam, and with the satellite beam list80already being loaded onto the broadband controller54, it may be introduced into a map of the beam properties. In more general terms, mask offset C may be defined as MaskOffset (beam)+A (antenna, beam)+x (antenna, beam)+Normalized ESD (skew, elevation), with variable A being the saturated power and variable x being the saturated power offset as defined above.

The mask opening offset value84is mapped to the elevation angle and the skew angle for a given reference bandwidth, similar to the normalized ESD values. Again, one embodiment contemplates nine (9) possible mask opening offset values along with the corresponding loadable data files90of the tabulated normalized ESD values for the range of mask openings including 1.5°, 2.0°, 2.5°, 3.0°, 3.5°, 4.0°, 4.5°, 5.0°, and 5.5°. The selection is based upon the satellite beam with coverage in a locale that the aircraft10is flying, and is understood to be associated with a particular mask opening value. By way of example, a selected satellite beam over Europe may allow a mask opening of 2.5° and the mask opening offset value84is set as such, the selected CSV/loadable data file90is likewise includes normalized ESD values computed with the mask opening of 2.5°. In more general terms, mask opening offset D may be defined as MaskOpeningOffset (skew, elevation, beam)+MaskOffset (beam)+A (antenna, beam)+x (antenna, beam)+Normalized ESD (skew, elevation), with variable A being the saturated power, variable x being the saturated power offset, and MaskOffset being the mask offset value82, all as set forth above.

The foregoing computational procedure is based upon a constant reference bandwidth in order to reduce and simplify the variables. The present disclosure further envisions an additional step to review and revise this reference bandwidth, and two conditions are evaluated to determine whether a re-computation is necessary. One of the conditions is where variable D is greater than variable A. This is more likely than not to be the case, but Ax is understood to be the maximum which can deliver the maximum EIRP for a particular antenna. Accordingly, the reference bandwidth Rssis:

Rs⁢10(A+x-D10).
The other condition is where variable D is less than variable Ax, in which case, no change in the reference bandwidth is necessary.

The block diagram ofFIG. 12best illustrates the various input variables92to broadband controller54and the computation step106including the aforementioned antenna type92a, the saturated power92b, the saturated power offset92c, the normalized ESD values92d, the mask opening offset92e, the reference bandwidth92f, and the mask offset92g. The normalized ESD values92doriginate from the loadable data files90as also discussed above. As a result of the computation step106, a set of output variables94that are used to control the output power and carrier bandwidth of transmissions from the antenna58may be generated. Furthermore, these output values are understood to result in ESD within predefined limits, and vary in response to or based upon the antenna orientation data. More particularly, the output variables94relayed to the satellite modem56may include saturated power (Ax)94a, reference power (D)94b, reference bandwidth (Rss)94c, and a frequency value, which may be a constant 14250 MHz.

The satellite modem56may further manipulate these operational parameters to match a data rate demand, but is configured to honor, and operate within the limits as defined by the output variables94, particularly as to impacts on EIRP spectral density at any given time. Although the block diagram ofFIG. 12illustrates the satellite modem56being a component within the broadband controller54, this is by way of example only and not of limitation. In one implementation, the satellite modem56is understood to be a separate external component from a separate manufacturer, e.g., Newtec Cy N.V. of Sint-Niklaas, Belgium.

The method for controlling ESD as described above may be implemented as a series of software-based instructions that are executed by the broadband controller54. In this regard, the broadband controller54may include a general-purpose data processor, memory, and the like, as well as data networking modalities, all of which would be within the purview of one having ordinary skill in the art. The software instructions may be stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium that is connectible to the broadband controller54.

Continuing with the method depicted in the flowchart ofFIG. 10, there may be two operational states with respect to the satellite modem56, each differing in the way the output power and the carrier bandwidth are handled: a login state and an operational state. The login state corresponds to the initial activation of the satellite communications service, but is not yet operational. The transmit power98is, for the most part, governed by the output variables94from the broadband controller54. There is a fixed dedicated bandwidth96athat is allocated for a terminal to first join the network, the satellite modem56computes a login power98abased on the following computation:

The data rate allocations follows a set of three possible rules. First, the demanded data rate may be met by allocating a minimum bandwidth and maximum allowed output power as provided by the broadband controller54. This rule may be summarized as: Operating power−10 log10(Operating Bandwdith)≤Reference Power−10 log10(Rereference Bandwidth). Second, the output power is increased up to saturated power and bandwidth proportionally until the demanded data rate is met. Third, if all available power up to saturated power is used, increase only the bandwidth while maintaining the same output power/saturated power until the demanded data rate is met. The computed operating power96bby the satellite modem56is based on the following:

The signal for the uplink38is amplified to the power levels as defined above, and transmitted to the communications satellite40via the antenna58in an antenna transmission step108, with such signal having an equivalent isotropic radiated power spectral density that meets all regulatory constraints. In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, the output power levels are adjusted in real-time as the orientation of the antenna58relative to the communications satellite40changes in accordance with flight maneuvers.

The particulars shown herein are by way of example only for purposes of illustrative discussion, and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the various embodiments of the dynamic EIRP spectral density control system and methods. In this regard, no attempt is made to show any more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the different features of the various embodiments, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how these may be implemented in practice.