Optimised channel allocation in satellite communication systems: a comparison of models and solution techniques

Effective channel assignment is essential to optimising satellite communication networks. Although traditionally modelled as a graph colouring or disjunctive scheduling problem, such approaches fall short of addressing contemporary user demands and the increasing complexity of operations in congested electromagnetic environments. This paper extends the standard channel assignment problem by introducing cumulative interference constraints arising from overlapping frequency intervals with heterogeneous bandwidths and non-symmetric interference powers. The model represents a flexible, digitally channelised satellite communication network employing a single-channel-per-carrier waveform. To address the challenges posed by this extension, we integrate constraint programming and operations research techniques to develop matheuristic algorithms that exploit problem-specific relaxations and decompositions. Through experimental analysis, we evaluate the effectiveness of our algorithms and examine the relative strengths and limitations of each approach, providing a foundation for future research into resource allocation in large-scale, complex satellite communication constellations.