A ratio-based dynamic bandwidth allocation algorithm for hybrid LEO satellite and terrestrial networks

The use of hybrid satellite terrestrial networks (HSTN) involving constellations of low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites is likely to play an increasingly important role in meeting future telecommunication demands. LEO satellite resources (bandwidth) are, however, strictly limited and allowance has to be made for housekeeping procedures such as handover. The problem of efficient resource allocation of LEO satellites is addressed. Through the use of Kleinrock´s linear capacity flow assignment (CFA) formulation and a suitable system model, simulation results show a binding relationship between satellite bandwidth, varying traffic loads, packet delay and satellite handover traffic. This leads to the proposition of a simple ratio-based dynamic bandwidth allocation (DBA) algorithm that conserves the limited LEO satellite bandwidth so as to facilitate the handover process, whilst maintaining the quality-of-service (QoS) offered to users.