Method for wireless communication, apparatus for wireless communication

Abstract

This application relates to techniques to improve positioning accuracy of mobile devices. In one example aspect, a method for wireless communication includes selecting, by a mobile device, one or more cells in a wireless network for use in assisting positioning of the mobile device in the wireless network. The method also includes transmitting, from the mobile device to a network node, a message to request assistance data corresponding to the one or more selected cells.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application No. 201880087537.2, filed on February 9, 2018, entitled "Improving the Positioning Accuracy of Mobile Devices". Technical Field

[0002] This patent document generally relates to digital wireless communication. Background Technology

[0003] Mobile communication technology is propelling the world towards an increasingly interconnected and networked society. The rapid development and technological advancements in mobile communications have led to greater demands for capacity and connectivity. Other aspects, such as energy consumption, equipment cost, spectrum efficiency, and latency, are also important for meeting the needs of various communication scenarios. Various technologies are being discussed, including new ways to provide higher quality of service. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This document discloses methods, systems, and apparatuses relating to digital wireless communication, and more specifically, techniques for data transmission and accuracy in locating user equipment (UE) in a network.

[0005] In one exemplary aspect, a method for wireless communication is provided. The method includes: selecting one or more cells in a wireless network by a mobile device to assist the mobile device in locating itself within the wireless network; and transmitting a message from the mobile device to a network node to request auxiliary data corresponding to the one or more selected cells.

[0006] In some embodiments, selecting one or more cells includes selecting one or more cells from a plurality of neighboring cells of the mobile device based on signal quality corresponding to each of the mobile device's neighboring cells. In some embodiments, selecting one or more cells includes selecting one or more cells based on a list of cells previously used for the location of the mobile device. In some embodiments, the network node includes an evolved Serving Mobility Center.

[0007] In another exemplary aspect, a method for wireless communication is provided. The method includes: at a network node, receiving a message from a mobile device, the message including a request for auxiliary data corresponding to one or more cells selected by the mobile device to assist in the mobile device's positioning in a wireless network; and transmitting the auxiliary data corresponding to the one or more cells selected by the mobile device from the network node to the mobile device.

[0008] In some embodiments, network nodes include evolved Serving Mobility Location Centers. In some embodiments, the ancillary data corresponding to one or more cells is determined based on ancillary data previously stored for mobile devices.

[0009] In another exemplary aspect, a method for wireless communication is disclosed. The method includes receiving, at a wireless communication node, a first message indicating a location request for a mobile device or an exchange of capabilities and auxiliary data between the mobile device and a network node.

[0010] In some embodiments, the method includes transmitting a second message from a wireless communication node to a mobile device to command the mobile device to perform location measurements in a connected state. In some embodiments, the method includes transmitting a second message from a wireless communication node to the mobile device to command the mobile device to perform a quick release of the current connection for performing location measurements in an idle state.

[0011] In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving a third message from the mobile device at the wireless communication node before receiving the first message, the third message including information indicating the mobile device's capability to perform location measurements in a connected state. In some embodiments, the third message is transmitted in a random access procedure. In some implementations, the third message includes Msg3 or Msg5.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first message includes information instructing the mobile device on its ability to perform location measurements in a connected state. In some embodiments, transmitting a second message includes transmitting the second message to the mobile device based on the coverage level of the mobile device's serving cell and the mobile device's ability to perform location measurements in a connected state, to command the mobile device to perform location measurements in a connected state.

[0013] In another exemplary aspect, a method for wireless communication is disclosed. The method includes transmitting a first message from a mobile device to a wireless communication node, the first message indicating a location request for the mobile device or completing a capability and auxiliary data exchange between the mobile device and a network node.

[0014] In some embodiments, the method includes receiving a second message from a wireless communication node at the mobile device to command the mobile device to perform location measurement in a connected state. In some embodiments, the method includes receiving a second message from a wireless communication node at the mobile device to command the mobile device to perform a quick release of the current connection for performing location measurement in an idle state. In some embodiments, the method further includes performing location measurement by the mobile device in a connected state after receiving the second message.

[0015] In some embodiments, the method includes transmitting a third message from the mobile device to the wireless communication node before transmitting the first message, wherein the third message includes information indicating the mobile device's capability to perform location measurements in a connected state. In some embodiments, the third message is transmitted during a random access procedure. In some implementations, the third message includes Msg3 or Msg5.

[0016] In another exemplary aspect, a wireless communication device including a processor is disclosed. The processor is configured to implement the methods described herein.

[0017] In yet another exemplary aspect, the various techniques described herein may be embodied in processor-executable code and stored on a computer-readable program medium.

[0018] Details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the appendices, drawings, and description below. Other features will be apparent from the specification, drawings, and claims. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating representative signaling steps of the positioning process used in current wireless communication systems.

[0020] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating a representative signaling flow based on the disclosed technology.

[0021] Figure 3 It is a flowchart representation of a method used for wireless communication.

[0022] Figure 4 This is a flowchart representation of another method used for wireless communication.

[0023] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a representative signaling flow based on the disclosed technology.

[0024] Figure 6A This is a diagram illustrating a representative signaling flow based on the disclosed technology.

[0025] Figure 6B This is a diagram illustrating another representative signaling flow based on the disclosed technology.

[0026] Figure 7A This is a flowchart illustrating a representative signaling flow for early data transmission using the disclosed technology.

[0027] Figure 7B This is a flowchart illustrating another representative signaling flow using Early Data Transmission (EDT) according to the disclosed technology.

[0028] Figure 8A This is a flowchart illustrating a representative signaling flow using EDT according to the disclosed technology.

[0029] Figure 8B This is a flowchart illustrating another representative signaling flow using EDT according to the disclosed technology.

[0030] Figure 9AThis is a diagram illustrating a representative signaling flow based on the disclosed technology.

[0031] Figure 9B This is a diagram illustrating another representative signaling flow based on the disclosed technology.

[0032] Figure 10 It is a flowchart representation of a method used for wireless communication.

[0033] Figure 11 This is a flowchart representation of another method used for wireless communication.

[0034] Figure 12 An example of a wireless communication system to which the technology according to one or more embodiments of the present technology can be applied is shown.

[0035] Figure 13 It is a block diagram representation of a part of a radio station. Detailed Implementation

[0036] In wireless communication systems, mobile device positioning functions utilize mechanisms that measure radio signals to provide calculations for supporting or assisting the geolocation of mobile devices (e.g., UEs). The UE's positioning knowledge can, for example, be used to support radio resource management functions and location-based services for operators, subscribers, and third-party service providers.

[0037] Figure 1This diagram illustrates representative signaling steps of the location procedure used in current wireless communication systems. For a UE in an idle state, the location procedure can be triggered when there is a location request on the network side. For example, Mobility Management Entity (MME) 103 sends a first paging message 111 to base station 102 (e.g., an evolved NodeB (eNB) or gNB). UE 101 is initially in an idle state. Base station 102 wakes up UE 101 by sending a second paging message 112 to UE 101. UE 101 then triggers random access procedure 113 so that it can switch to a connected state. After UE 101 is in a connected state, a location server 104, such as an evolved Serving Mobile Location Centre (E-SMLC), exchanges relevant location information with UE 101. For example, E-SMLC 104 sends message 114 to UE 101 to request its location information. The UE first sends message 115 to E-SMLC 104 to report its location capabilities. The UE then sends message 116 to E-SMLC 104 to request auxiliary data. After receiving the auxiliary data in message 117 from E-SMLC 104, the UE re-enters the idle state 118 to perform a location measurement. After the measurement is complete, the UE switches back to the connected state 119 to report its measurement results to E-SMLC 104 in message 120. E-SMLC 104 can obtain the UE's location information 121 after receiving the measurement results from UE 101.

[0038] Currently, narrowband (NB) Internet of Things (IoT) systems only support positioning in idle states. That is, positioning measurements are only performed in idle states. To complete the positioning process, the UE must go through several state transitions: such as... Figure 1 As shown, after receiving a paging message, the UE switches from idle to connected state, switches back to idle state to perform measurements, and switches back to connected state to report the measurement results. Furthermore, the amount of auxiliary data is substantial. In many cases, the auxiliary data for the UE remains constant; however, the UE requests it for each positioning procedure, regardless of whether the UE's location has changed.

[0039] Therefore, current positioning procedures are inefficient in terms of bandwidth utilization and implementation complexity. The techniques described in this document can be used in embodiments where the UE can request less auxiliary data while improving the accuracy of the positioning procedure. The disclosed techniques can also be used in embodiments where the UE can undergo fewer state transitions to obtain auxiliary data when the UE is able to perform positioning measurements in a connected state, thereby reducing system resource overhead and UE power consumption.

[0040] Details of the disclosed technology are described in the following embodiments.

[0041] Example 1

[0042] In current wireless communication systems, the E-SMLC is unaware of the UE's specific location within its serving cell. Therefore, the E-SMLC tends to configure a relatively large list of neighboring cells for the UE. Retrieving cell-specific auxiliary data from a large list can increase the UE's power consumption. Furthermore, without UE-specific information, one or more high-quality cells that are helpful for UE positioning may still be missed from the large list, leading to suboptimal accuracy in the final positioning result. This embodiment describes techniques that can be used to reduce the amount of auxiliary data while improving the accuracy of the UE positioning process.

[0043] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating a representative signaling flow according to the disclosed technology. The location process can be triggered when there is a location request on the network side. For example, MME 203 sends a first paging message 211 to eNB 202.

[0044] UE 201 is initially in an idle state. eNB 202 sends a second paging message 212 to UE 201. Upon receiving the second paging message 212, UE 201 initiates Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection establishment procedure 213 to enter the connected state. After UE 201 is in the connected state, the UE receives a capability request 214 from E-SMLC 204 and reports its location capabilities to E-SMLC 204 in message 215.

[0045] UE 201 then selects a list 216 of recommended cells to assist in UE positioning. Using current positioning methods such as the Observed Time Difference of Arrival (OTDOA) method, UE 201 requires at least three cells to calculate accurate location information. UE 201 can select three or more cells to form a list of recommended cells based on signal quality within those cells. For example, UE 201 can select three cells with the best signal quality. UE 201 then sends message 217 to E-SMLC 204 to request auxiliary data for the selected cells. E-SMLC 204 determines the requested auxiliary data 218 for the selected cells and provides the corresponding auxiliary data to the UE in message 219.

[0046] After receiving the auxiliary data, UE 201 re-enters the idle state 220 to perform positioning measurements. UE 201 then switches back to the connected state 221 after the measurement is complete to report the measurement results to E-SMLC 204 in message 222. E-SMLC 204 can obtain the UE's location information 223 by calculating the measurement results from UE 201.

[0047] Figure 3This is a flowchart representation of a method 300 for wireless communication. Method 300 includes, at 302, a mobile device selecting one or more cells in a wireless network to assist in the mobile device's location within the wireless network. Method 300 also includes, at 304, a message being transmitted from the mobile device to a network node to request auxiliary data corresponding to the one or more selected cells.

[0048] Figure 4 This is a flowchart representation of a method 400 for wireless communication. Method 400 includes, at 402, receiving from a mobile device at a network node a message requesting auxiliary data corresponding to one or more cells selected by the mobile device for locating the mobile device in a wireless network. Method 400 also includes, at 404, transmitting the auxiliary data corresponding to the one or more cells selected by the mobile device from the network node to the mobile device.

[0049] Example 2

[0050] In many cases, auxiliary data remains unchanged over long periods. When a UE moves within its serving cell, its neighboring cells do not change much. When a UE moves out of its serving cell, its reference cell and neighboring cells may undergo greater changes. Therefore, the UE can store cells previously used in the positioning process. When the UE receives information indicating a new list of neighboring cells via a signal on a broadcast channel, it can detect changes in neighboring cells and request corresponding auxiliary data. This embodiment describes a technique that can be used to reduce the amount of auxiliary data while improving the accuracy of the UE positioning process.

[0051] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating a representative signaling flow according to the disclosed technology. UE 501 may store a list 511 of cells used in previous location procedures (e.g., CellListold). A new location procedure may be triggered when there is a location request on the network side. For example, MME 503 sends a first paging message 513 to eNB 502.

[0052] UE 501 is initially in an idle state. eNB 502 sends a second paging message 514 to UE 501. Upon receiving the second paging message 514, UE 501 initiates a Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection establishment procedure 515 to enter a connected state. After UE 501 is in a connected state, UE receives a capability request 516 from E-SMLC 504 and reports its location capabilities to E-SMLC 504 in message 517.

[0053] By comparing its stored list of cells with the current neighboring cells (e.g., ΔCellList) signaled on the broadcast channel. newBy comparing the values, the UE can determine changes in one or more cells (e.g., ΔCellList = CellList). new -CellList old The UE then requests auxiliary data for the changed cell (e.g., ΔCellList) in message 519 and receives the corresponding auxiliary data in message 521. For example, the UE stores the cells {A, B, C} used in its previous positioning procedure. The UE then moves and receives notification that its current neighboring cells are {B, C, D}. Based on the stored information, the UE requests auxiliary data only for cell {D}.

[0054] After receiving the auxiliary data, UE 501 re-enters the idle state 522 to perform positioning measurements. UE 501 then switches back to the connected state 523 after the measurement is complete to report the measurement results to E-SMLC 504 in message 524. E-SMLC 504 can then calculate the UE's location information 525 from the measurement results from UE 501.

[0055] Example 3

[0056] This embodiment describes a technique that can be used to reduce the amount of auxiliary data in the UE positioning process.

[0057] Figure 6A This is a diagram illustrating a representative signaling flow according to the disclosed technology. In this embodiment, the E-SMLC 604 locally stores auxiliary data so that it can detect changes in the auxiliary data. In some embodiments, the auxiliary data may be stored in a separate node accessible to the E-SMLC 604.

[0058] like Figure 6A As shown, MME 603 ​​sends a location request message 611 to E-SMLC 604. Message 611 may include information about cells in the UE's tracking area. After receiving message 611, E-SMLC 604 determines, based on stored ancillary data, whether the ancillary data for each cell in the UE's tracking area has changed.

[0059] In some embodiments, the E-SMLC 604 stores cell-specific auxiliary data for the UE. Based on the cell-specific auxiliary data, the E-SMLC 604 sends message 613 to the MME 603 ​​to indicate whether the auxiliary data for each cell in the tracking area for the UE has changed. If the auxiliary data for one or more cells in the tracking area has changed, the E-SMLC 604 may include information indicating such changes in message 613. In some embodiments, message 613 includes one or more indicators for indicating that the auxiliary data for cells in the tracking area has changed. In some embodiments, message 613 includes the changed portion of the auxiliary data for each changed cell in the tracking area (e.g., ΔAssistanceData = AssistanceData). new -AssistanceData old If the cell ancillary data for the tracking area has not changed, the E-SMLC 604 may include one or more indicators indicating that the cell ancillary data has not changed.

[0060] In some embodiments, E-SMLC 604 stores UE-specific location assistance data for the UE. In this case, E-SMLC 604 may notify MME 603 ​​of the UE's serving cell based on the result of the last location procedure. E-SMLC 604 may also indicate whether the assistance data for the serving cell has changed. If the assistance data for the serving cell has changed, E-SMLC 604 may include information indicating such a change in message 613. In some embodiments, message 613 includes an indicator indicating that the assistance data for the serving cell has changed. In some embodiments, message 613 includes a portion of the assistance data for the serving cell that has changed (e.g., ΔAssistanceData = AssistanceData). new -AssistanceData old If the ancillary data for the serving cell has not changed, E-SMLC 604 may include an indicator indicating that the ancillary data for the serving cell has not changed.

[0061] E-SMLC 604 can also indicate whether auxiliary data for one or more non-serving cells in the tracking area has changed. If auxiliary data for one or more non-serving cells has changed, E-SMLC 604 may include information indicating such a change in message 613. In some embodiments, message 613 includes an indicator indicating that auxiliary data for one or more non-serving cells in the tracking area has changed. In some embodiments, message 613 includes a portion indicating that auxiliary data for one or more non-serving cells in the tracking area has changed (e.g., ΔAssisanceData = AssistanceData). new -AssistanceData old If there are no changes to the auxiliary data for one or more non-serving cells in the tracking area, the E-SMLC 604 may include one or more indicators indicating that there are no changes to the auxiliary data for one or more non-serving cells.

[0062] Figure 6B This is a diagram illustrating another representative signaling flow according to the disclosed technology. UE 601 may store a list 611 of cells used in previous location procedures (e.g., CellList). old The E-SMLC 604 also stores auxiliary data 612 to assist the UE in positioning. The new positioning procedure can be triggered when there is a positioning request on the network side. For example, the MME 603 ​​sends a first paging message 613 to the eNB 602.

[0063] UE 601 is initially in an idle state. eNB 602 sends a second paging message 614 to UE 601. Upon receiving the second paging message 614, UE 601 initiates a Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection establishment procedure 615 to enter a connected state. After UE 601 is in a connected state, UE receives a capability request 616 from E-SMLC 604 and reports its location capabilities to E-SMLC 604 in message 617.

[0064] By comparing its stored list of cells with the current neighboring cells (e.g., CellList) signaled on the broadcast channel. new By comparing the values, the UE can then determine changes in one or more cells (e.g., ΔCellList = CellList). new -CellList old In message 619, the UE requests auxiliary data for the modified cell (e.g., ΔCellList).

[0065] After receiving message 619, E-SMLC 604 determines, based on stored auxiliary data, whether auxiliary data 620 for the requested cell has changed. E-SMLC 604 sends the changed auxiliary data for the requested cell to UE 601 in message 621. In some embodiments, message 621 also includes auxiliary data for changes to cells not requested by UE 601. For example, UE 601 detects that its cell list has changed from {A, B, C} to {B, C, D}, and therefore sends a message requesting auxiliary data for ΔCellList = {D}. However, E-SMLC 604 detects that the auxiliary data for cell E has also changed. Therefore, E-SMLC 604 may include changed auxiliary data for cells {D, E} in message 621 sent to UE 601.

[0066] After receiving the modified auxiliary data in message 621 from E-SMLC 604, UE 601 re-enters the idle state 622 to perform a location measurement. UE 601 then switches back to the connected state 623 after the measurement is complete to report the measurement results to E-SMLC 604 in message 624. E-SMLC 604 can then calculate the UE's location information 625 from the measurement results received from UE 601.

[0067] Example 4

[0068] Early Data Transmission (EDT) allows the UE and eNB to append data to messages during the random access procedure, for example, appending uplink data to Msg3 and downlink data to Msg4. This embodiment describes the following representative signaling flow, which can be used to enable UEs with Early Data Transmission (EDT) capability to reduce state transitions during the location procedure where possible. Specifically, when the UE supports location measurements in connected mode, the number of state transitions experienced by the UE during the location procedure can be reduced.

[0069] Figure 7A This is a flowchart illustrating a representative signaling flow using early data transmission according to the disclosed technology. The location process can be triggered when there is a location requirement on the network side. For example, MME 703 sends a first paging message 711 to eNB 702. UE 701 is initially in an idle state. eNB 702 sends a second paging message 712 to UE 701.

[0070] In this particular embodiment, eNB 702 includes information indicating Early Data Transmission (EDT) to command UE 701 to initiate a random access procedure with EDT. After the UE receives a second paging message 712, the UE detects the information for EDT and initiates a random access procedure. The UE first sends Msg1 713 to eNB 702 and receives a random access response in Msg2 714 from eNB 702. Operating using Early Data Transmission, the UE can transmit its location capabilities 718 in the connected state (e.g., the location method supported by the UE) in parallel with the transmission of Mg3 715 or Mg5 717. For example, Msg3 may include a dedicated information element (e.g., dedicatedInfoNAS) so that the UE can include its location capabilities in Msg3 715. Similarly, Mg5 may include a dedicated information element (e.g., dedicatedInfoNAS) so that the UE can include its location capabilities in Msg5 717.

[0071] After UE 701 completes the random access procedure, UE 701 exchanges information with E-SMLC 704 regarding other UE positioning capabilities 719 and auxiliary data 720. UE 701 then sends message 721 to eNB 702 to indicate the completion of the information exchange. In some embodiments, UE 701 includes a positioning request in message 721 to eNB 702.

[0072] If UE 701 supports a positioning method that allows UE 701 to perform measurements in connected state, then eNB 702 determines the positioning method for performing the measurements based on the UE's positioning capabilities 718 obtained in the random access procedure. For example, if the coverage level of the serving cell is a normal coverage level, or a coverage enhancement level (CEL) below a predetermined threshold (e.g., CEL2), then eNB determines that the UE can perform measurements in connected state. eNB 702 then sends message 722 to command UE 701 to use the method to perform the measurements.

[0073] After receiving message 722 from eNB 702, UE 701 performs a location measurement in connected state 723. UE 701 then reports the measurement results 724 to E-SMLC 704 without any state transition. E-SMLC 704 can then obtain the UE's location information 725 by calculating the measurement results from UE 701.

[0074] In some embodiments, even if the UE supports location measurement in connected mode, the eNB can determine which location method is more desirable. For example, such as Figure 7BAs shown, if the coverage level of the serving cell is a CEL higher than a predetermined threshold (e.g., CEL2), then eNB 702 determines that it expects the UE to perform measurements in the idle state. eNB 702 then sends message 726 to UE 701 to command it to perform a quick release of the current connection and perform location measurements in the idle state.

[0075] After receiving message 726 from eNB 702, UE 701 releases the current connection and enters an idle state 727 to perform location measurements. UE 701 then switches back to the connected state 728 after the measurement is complete to report the measurement results to E-SMLC 704 in message 724. E-SMLC 704 can obtain the UE's location information 725 by calculating the measurement results from UE 701.

[0076] Example 5

[0077] This embodiment describes another representative signaling procedure that can be used to enable UEs with Early Data Transmission (EDT) capabilities to reduce state transitions during the location process where possible.

[0078] Figure 8A This is a flowchart illustrating a representative signaling flow using EDT according to the disclosed technology. The location process can be triggered when there is a location requirement on the network side. For example, the MME 803 sends a first paging message 811 to the eNB 802.

[0079] UE 801 is initially in an idle state. eNB 802 sends a second paging message 812 to UE 801. In this particular embodiment, eNB 802 includes information indicating Early Data Transmission (EDT), which is used to command UE 801 to initiate a random access procedure with EDT. After the UE receives the second paging message 812, the UE detects the information about the EDT and initiates a random access procedure. The UE first sends Msg1 813 to eNB 802 and receives a random access response in Msg2 814 from eNB 802. Utilizing the Early Data Transmission operation, the UE can transmit its positioning capabilities 818 (e.g., the positioning method supported by the UE) in parallel with the transmission of Mg3 815 or Mg5 817. For example, Msg3 may include a dedicated information element (e.g., dedicatedInfoNAS) so that the UE can include its positioning capabilities in Msg3 815. Similarly, Mg5 may include dedicated information elements (e.g., dedicatedInfoNAS) so that the UE can include its positioning capabilities in Msg5 817.

[0080] After UE 801 completes the random access procedure, eNB 802 reports the UE's capabilities (e.g., supported positioning methods) to E-SMLC in message 819. UE 801 also exchanges information with E-SMLC 804 about other UE capabilities 820 and auxiliary data 821. E-SMLC then sends message 822 to eNB 802 to indicate the completion of the information exchange.

[0081] If UE 801 supports a positioning method that allows UE 801 to perform measurements in connected state, then eNB 802 determines the positioning method for performing the measurements based on the UE's positioning capabilities 818 obtained in the random access procedure. For example, if the coverage level of the serving cell is a normal coverage level, or a coverage enhancement level (CEL) below a predetermined threshold (e.g., CEL2), then eNB determines that the UE can perform measurements in connected state. eNB 802 then sends message 823 to command UE 801 to use the method to perform the measurements.

[0082] After receiving message 823 from eNB 802, UE 801 performs a location measurement in connected state 824. UE 801 then reports the measurement results 825 to E-SMLC 804 without any state transition. E-SMLC 804 can then calculate the UE's location information 826 from the measurement results from UE 801.

[0083] In some embodiments, even if the UE supports location measurement in connected mode, the eNB can determine which location method is more desirable. For example, such as Figure 8B As shown, if the coverage level of the serving cell is a CEL higher than a predetermined threshold (e.g., CEL2), then eNB 802 determines that it expects the UE to perform measurements in the idle state. eNB 802 then sends message 827 to UE 801 to command it to perform a quick release of the current connection and perform location measurements in the idle state.

[0084] After receiving the modified auxiliary data in message 827 from eNB 802, UE 801 releases the current connection and enters idle state 828 to perform location measurement. UE 801 then switches back to connected state 829 after the measurement is complete to report the measurement results to E-SMLC 804 in message 825. E-SMLC 804 can obtain the UE's location information 826 by calculating the measurement results from UE 801.

[0085] Example 6

[0086] This embodiment describes a representative signaling flow that can be used to reduce UE state transitions where possible. In particular, when the UE supports location measurements in a connected state, the number of state transitions the UE undergoes for the location procedure can be reduced.

[0087] Figure 9A This is a diagram illustrating a representative signaling flow according to the disclosed technology. The signaling flow can be triggered when there is a location requirement on the network side. For example, the MME 903 sends a first paging message 911 to the eNB 902.

[0088] UE 901 is initially in an idle state. eNB 902 sends a second paging message 912 to UE 901. Upon receiving the second paging message 912, UE 901 initiates a Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection establishment procedure 913 to enter a connected state. After UE 901 is in a connected state, UE receives a capability request 914 from E-SMLC 904 and reports its location capabilities to E-SMLC 904 in message 915. UE 901 also transmits message 917 to E-SMLC 904 to request auxiliary data for the selected cell and receives the corresponding auxiliary data from E-SMLC 904 in message 918.

[0089] The UE can also transmit its location capabilities 916 (e.g., location methods supported by the UE) in connected state in parallel with requests for other capabilities 915 or for auxiliary data 917. For example, the UE can include its location capabilities in connected state, as well as other location capabilities, in message 915. After exchanging information with UE 901, E-SMLC 904 sends message 919 to eNB 902 to indicate the completion of the information exchange. E-SMLC 904 also includes the UE's location capabilities in connected state (e.g., location methods supported by the UE) in message 919.

[0090] If UE 901 supports a positioning method that allows UE 901 to perform measurements in connected state, then eNB 902 determines the positioning method for performing the measurements based on the UE's positioning capabilities included in message 919. For example, if the serving cell's coverage level is a normal coverage level or a coverage enhancement level (CEL) below a predetermined threshold (e.g., CEL2), then eNB determines that the UE can perform measurements in connected state. eNB 902 then sends message 920 to command UE 901 to use the method to perform the measurements.

[0091] After receiving message 920 from eNB 902, UE 921 performs a location measurement in connected state 921. Then, UE 901 reports the measurement results 922 to E-SMLC 904 without any state transition. E-SMLC 904 can then calculate the UE's location information 923 from the measurement results from UE 901.

[0092] In some embodiments, even if the UE supports location measurement in connected mode, the eNB can determine which location method is more desirable. For example, such as Figure 9B As shown, if the coverage level of the serving cell is a CEL higher than a predetermined threshold (e.g., CEL2), then eNB 902 determines that it expects the UE to perform measurements in the idle state. eNB 902 then sends message 924 to UE 901 to command it to perform a quick release of the current connection and perform location measurements in the idle state.

[0093] After receiving message 924 from eNB 902, UE 901 releases the current connection and enters idle state 925 to perform location measurements. UE 901 then switches back to connected state 926 after the measurement is complete to report the measurement results to E-SMLC 904 in message 922. E-SMLC 904 can then calculate the UE's location information 923 by calculating the measurement results from UE 901.

[0094] Figure 10 This is a flowchart representation of a method 1000 for wireless communication. The method includes, at 1002, receiving at a wireless communication node a first message indicating a location request for a mobile device or an exchange of capabilities and auxiliary data between the mobile device and a network node.

[0095] Figure 11 This is a flowchart representation of a method 1100 for wireless communication. The method includes, at 1102, transmitting a first message from a mobile device to a wireless communication node, the first message indicating a location request for the mobile device or completing capability and auxiliary data exchange between the mobile device and a network node.

[0096] Figure 12An example of a wireless communication system to which the technology according to one or more embodiments of the present invention can be applied is shown. The wireless communication system 1200 may include one or more base stations (BS) 1205a, 1205b, one or more wireless devices 1210a, 1210b, 1210c, 1210d, and a core network 1225. Base stations 1205a, 1205b may provide wireless services to wireless devices 1210a, 1210b, 1210c, and 1210d in one or more wireless sectors. In some embodiments, base stations 1205a, 1205b include directional antennas for generating two or more directional beams to provide wireless coverage in different sectors.

[0097] The core network 1225 can communicate with one or more base stations 1205a and 1205b. The core network 1225 provides connectivity with other wireless and wired communication systems. The core network may include one or more service subscription databases to store information related to subscribed wireless devices 1210a, 1210b, 1210c, and 1210d. The first base station 1205a can provide wireless services based on a first radio access technology, while the second base station 1205b can provide wireless services based on a second radio access technology. Base stations 1205a and 1205b can be co-located or can be installed individually in the field depending on the deployment scenario. Wireless devices 1210a, 1210b, 1210c, and 1210d can support multiple different radio access technologies.

[0098] In some implementations, a wireless communication system may include multiple networks using different wireless technologies. Dual-mode or multi-mode wireless devices include two or more wireless technologies that can be used to connect to different wireless networks.

[0099] Figure 13 This is a block diagram representation of a portion of a radio station. Radio station 1305, such as a base station or wireless device (or UE), may include processor electronics 1310, such as microprocessor electronics implementing one or more of the wireless technologies presented in this document. Radio station 1305 may include transceiver electronics 1315 for transmitting and / or receiving wireless signals via one or more communication interfaces (e.g., antenna 1320). Radio station 1305 may include other communication interfaces for transmitting and receiving data. Radio station 1305 may include one or more memories (not explicitly shown) configured to store information such as data and / or instructions. In some embodiments, processor electronics 1310 may include at least a portion of transceiver electronics 1315. In some embodiments, radio station 1305 is used to implement at least some of the disclosed technologies, modules, or functions.

[0100] Therefore, it is evident that methods and corresponding apparatuses related to data transmission and accuracy for locating a user equipment (UE) in a network are disclosed. Using the disclosed techniques, the UE can request less auxiliary data while improving the accuracy of the positioning process. The UE can also obtain auxiliary data by undergoing fewer state transitions when it is able to perform positioning measurements in a connected state, thereby reducing system resource overhead and UE power consumption.

[0101] Based on the foregoing, it will be understood that specific embodiments of the currently disclosed technology have been described in this document for illustrative purposes, but various modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the currently disclosed technology is not limited except by the appended claims.

[0102] The disclosed and other embodiments, modules, and functional operations described in this document can be implemented as digital electronic circuits, or as computer software, firmware, or hardware (including the structures disclosed in this document and their equivalents), or as a combination of one or more of these. The disclosed and other embodiments can be implemented as one or more computer program products, i.e., one or more modules of computer program instructions encoded on a computer-readable medium for execution by a data processing apparatus or for controlling the operation of the data processing apparatus. The computer-readable medium can be a combination of a machine-readable storage device, a machine-readable storage substrate, a storage device, a substance that influences machine-readable propagation signals, or one or more of these. The term "data processing apparatus" encompasses all means, devices, and machines for processing data, including, for example, a programmable processor, a computer, or multiple processors or computers. In addition to hardware, the apparatus may include code that creates an execution environment for the computer program in question, such as code constituting processor firmware, a protocol stack, a database management system, an operating system, or one or more of these. Propagation signals are artificially generated signals, such as machine-generated electrical, optical, or electromagnetic signals, which are generated to encode information for transmission to a suitable receiver device.

[0103] Computer programs (also known as programs, software, software applications, scripts, or code) can be written in any programming language (including compiled or interpreted languages) and can be deployed in any form, including as standalone programs or as modules, components, subroutines, or other units suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program does not necessarily correspond to a file in a file system. A program can be stored as a portion of a file that holds other programs or data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup language document), as a single file dedicated to the program in question, or as multiple coordinating files (e.g., a file storing one or more modules, subroutines, or portions of code). A computer program can be deployed to execute on a single computer or on multiple computers located at one site or distributed across multiple sites and interconnected via a communication network.

[0104] The processes and logic flows described in this document can be executed by one or more programmable processors that execute one or more computer programs to perform functions by manipulating input data and generating outputs. These processes and logic flows can also be executed by special-purpose logic circuitry, and the devices can be implemented as special-purpose logic circuitry, such as FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays) or ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits).

[0105] Processors suitable for executing computer programs include, for example, both general-purpose and special-purpose microprocessors, as well as any one or more processors in any type of digital computer. Typically, a processor receives instructions and data from read-only memory or random access memory, or both. The basic components of a computer are a processor for executing instructions and one or more memory devices for storing instructions and data. Typically, a computer will also include one or more mass storage devices (e.g., magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, or optical disks) for storing data, or be operatively coupled to receive data from or transfer data to one or more mass storage devices, or both. However, a computer does not require such devices. Computer-readable media suitable for storing computer program instructions and data include all forms of non-volatile memory, media, and memory devices, including, for example: semiconductor memory devices, such as EPROM, EEPROM, and flash memory devices; magnetic disks, such as internal hard disks or removable disks; magneto-optical disks; and CD-ROM and DVD-ROM disks. The processor and memory may be supplemented or incorporated therein by dedicated logic circuitry.

[0106] Although this patent document contains numerous details, these details should not be construed as limiting the scope of any invention or what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features that may be characteristic of particular embodiments of a particular invention. Certain features described in this patent document within the context of individual embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. In contrast, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple embodiments. Furthermore, although features may be described above as functioning in certain combinations, and even initially claimed in this way, one or more features from a claimed combination may be removed from that combination in certain circumstances, and the claimed combination may be for sub-combinations or variations thereof.

[0107] Similarly, although operations are depicted in a specific order in the accompanying drawings, this should not be construed as requiring such operations to be performed in the specific order shown or in a sequential order, or to perform all shown operations to achieve the desired result. Furthermore, the separation of the various system components in the embodiments described in this patent document should not be construed as requiring such separation in all embodiments.

[0108] Only some implementation methods and examples are described, and other implementation methods, enhancements and variations can be made based on what is described and shown in this patent document.

Claims

1. A method for wireless communication, comprising: The method comprises: a mobile device selects one or more cells in a wireless network for use in assisting the mobile device in positioning in the wireless network based on signal quality corresponding to neighboring cells of the mobile device; after selecting the one or more cells, transmitting a message from the mobile device to a network node requesting assistance data corresponding to the one or more selected cells; receiving the assistance data corresponding to the one or more selected cells from the network node; after receiving the assistance data, entering an idle state to perform positioning measurements.

2. The method for wireless communication of claim 1, wherein, Selecting the one or more cells comprises: selecting the one or more cells based on a list of cells previously used for positioning of the mobile device.

3. The method for wireless communication of claim 1, wherein, The network node comprises an evolved serving mobile location center.

4. A method for wireless communication, comprising: The method comprises: receiving a message at a network node from a mobile device, the message comprising a request for assistance data corresponding to one or more cells selected by the mobile device for use in assisting the mobile device in positioning in a wireless network, wherein the one or more cells are selected based on signal quality corresponding to neighboring cells of the mobile device; determining at the network node whether the assistance data has changed; and transmitting a second message from the network node to the mobile device, the second message comprising the assistance data corresponding to the one or more cells selected by the mobile device, the second message further comprising an indicator indicating a result of the determination.

5. The method for wireless communication of claim 4, wherein, The network node comprises an evolved serving mobile location center.

6. The method for wireless communication of claim 4, wherein, The assistance data corresponding to the one or more cells is determined based on previously stored assistance data for the mobile device.

7. A method for wireless communication, comprising: The method comprises: receiving a first message at a wireless communication node from a mobile device, the first message comprising positioning capability information indicating a capability of the mobile device to perform positioning measurements in a connected state; receiving a second message at the wireless communication node, the second message indicating that a capability and assistance data exchange is completed between the mobile device and the wireless communication node; determining at the wireless communication node, based on the positioning capability information received during the capability and assistance data exchange, that the mobile device is configured to perform measurements in the connected state; and transmitting a third message from the wireless communication node to the mobile device to command the mobile device to perform positioning measurements based on the determination.

8. The method for wireless communication of claim 7, wherein, The third message is transmitted based on a coverage level of a serving cell of the mobile device and a capability of the mobile device to perform positioning measurements in the connected state.

9. A method for wireless communication, comprising: The method comprises: a mobile device transmits a first message to a wireless communication node, the first message comprising positioning capability information indicating a capability of the mobile device to perform positioning measurements in a connected state; the mobile device transmits a second message to the wireless communication node, the second message indicating that a capability and assistance data exchange is completed between the mobile device and the wireless communication node; receiving a third message at the mobile device from the wireless communication node to command the mobile device to perform positioning measurements in the connected state; and At the mobile device, based on the third message, performing positioning measurements in the connected state.

10. The method for wireless communication of claim 9, wherein, The method further comprises: Upon receiving the third message, the mobile device performs positioning measurements in the connected state.

11. An apparatus for wireless communication, the apparatus comprising: The apparatus comprises: a processor, and memory including processor-executable code that, based on execution by the processor, configures the processor to: select one or more cells in a wireless network for use by the apparatus in positioning in the wireless network based on signal quality corresponding to neighboring cells of the apparatus; after selecting the one or more cells, transmit a message to a network node requesting assistance data corresponding to the one or more selected cells; receive the assistance data from the network node, the assistance data including information for the one or more selected cells; after receiving the assistance data, enter an idle state to perform positioning measurements.

12. The apparatus for wireless communication of claim 11, wherein, The one or more cells are further selected based on a list of cells previously used for positioning of the apparatus.

13. The apparatus for wireless communication of claim 11, wherein, The network node comprises an evolved serving mobile location center.

14. An apparatus for wireless communication, the apparatus comprising: The apparatus comprises: a processor, and memory including processor-executable code that, based on execution by the processor, configures the processor to: receive a first message from a mobile device, the first message including a request for assistance data corresponding to one or more cells selected by the mobile device for use in positioning of the mobile device in a wireless network, wherein the one or more cells are selected based on signal quality corresponding to neighboring cells of the mobile device; determine whether the assistance data has changed; and transmit a second message to the mobile device, the second message including the assistance data corresponding to the one or more cells selected by the mobile device, the second message further including an indicator indicating a result of the determination.

15. The apparatus for wireless communication of claim 14, wherein, The assistance data corresponding to the one or more cells is determined based on previously stored assistance data for the mobile device.

16. The apparatus for wireless communication of claim 14, wherein, The processor is part of an evolved serving mobile location center.

17. An apparatus for wireless communication, the apparatus comprising: The apparatus comprises: a processor, and memory including processor-executable code that, based on execution by the processor, configures the processor to: receive a first message from a mobile device including positioning capability information, the positioning capability information indicating a capability of the mobile device to perform positioning measurements in a connected state; receive a second message at a wireless communication node, the second message indicating that a capability and assistance data exchange is complete between the mobile device and the wireless communication node; based on the positioning capability information received during the capability and assistance data exchange, determine that the mobile device is configured to perform measurements in the connected state; and transmit a third message to the mobile device to instruct the mobile device to perform positioning measurements based on the determination.

18. The apparatus for wireless communication of claim 17, wherein, The third message is transmitted based on a coverage level of a serving cell of the mobile device and the capability of the mobile device to perform positioning measurements in the connected state.

19. An apparatus for wireless communication, the apparatus comprising: The apparatus comprises: a processor, and memory including processor-executable code that, when executed by the processor, configures the processor to: transmit a first message including positioning capability information indicating a capability of the mobile device to perform positioning measurements in a connected state; transmit a second message from the mobile device to a wireless communication node indicating a completion of a capability and assistance data exchange between the mobile device and the wireless communication node; receive a third message from the wireless communication node to command the mobile device to perform positioning measurements in the connected state; and perform positioning measurements in the connected state based on the third message.

20. The apparatus for wireless communication of claim 19, wherein, the processor is configured to perform positioning measurements in the connected state upon receipt of the third message. the processor is configured to perform positioning measurements in the connected state upon receipt of the third message.

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