The ultra-dense deployment of interconnected satellites will characterize future low Earth orbit (LEO) mega-constellations. Exploiting this towards a more efficient satellite network (SatNet), this paper proposes a novel LEO SatNet architecture based on distributed massive multiple-input multiple-output (DM-MIMO) technology allowing ground user terminals to be connected to a cluster of satellites. To this end, we investigate various aspects of DM-MIMO-based satellite network design, the benefits of using this architecture, the associated challenges, and the potential solutions. In addition, we propose a distributed joint power allocation and handover management (D-JPAHM) technique that jointly optimizes the power allocation and handover management processes in a cross-layer manner. This framework aims to maximize the network throughput and minimize the handover rate while considering the quality-of-service (QoS) demands of user terminals and the power capabilities of the satellites. Moreover, we devise an artificial intelligence (AI)-based solution to efficiently implement the proposed D-JPAHM framework in a manner suitable for real-time operation and the dynamic SatNet environment. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first work to introduce and study DM-MIMO technology in LEO SatNets. Extensive simulation results reveal the superiority of the proposed architecture and solutions compared to conventional approaches in the literature.
翻译:为此,我们调查了DM-MIMO卫星网络设计的各个方面、使用这一结构的好处、相关挑战和潜在解决办法。此外,我们建议采用分散式联合电力分配和移交管理(D-JPAHM)技术,以跨层方式联合优化权力分配和移交管理程序。这个框架的目的是在考虑用户终端服务质量和卫星能力的同时,最大限度地扩大网络的吞吐量和最大限度地降低移交率。我们提出的最先进的MDR-MIMO卫星终端服务要求和卫星的动力能力。此外,我们设计了一个人工智能(AI)解决方案,以高效地实施拟议的D-JPAHM框架,其方式首先适合实时操作和动态的SatNet环境。在MDRM模型中,将最佳的MLOF模型和最高级的模型引入了我们最先进的模型。