A positioning method and apparatus

Abstract

This disclosure provides a positioning method and apparatus, wherein the method is configured to be executed by a core network device. The method includes sending a positioning message, wherein the positioning message includes time information for instructing an access network device or a terminal device to return response information. Therefore, the time of each stage in the positioning process is controlled by the core network device, enabling the core network device to complete positioning preparations within a specified time range and reducing positioning latency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to a positioning method and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] In communication systems, various positioning technologies can be used to locate terminal devices. Before locating a terminal device, the core network equipment needs to complete preparatory work, such as determining the terminal device's positioning capabilities, acquiring the terminal device's sounding reference symbol (SRS), and providing positioning assistance information to the terminal device.

[0003] The time required for each of the above positioning preparation tasks is not controlled by the core network equipment, which may result in the core network equipment being unable to complete the preparation work before the specified time. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides a positioning method and apparatus that can be applied to positioning services in communication systems. By having a core network device send a positioning message containing time information, it instructs an access network device or terminal device to return response information to the core network device within the time specified in the time information. Therefore, the time of each stage in the positioning process is controlled by the core network device, enabling the core network device to complete positioning preparations within a specified time range and reducing positioning latency.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a positioning method configured to be executed by a core network device, the method comprising: sending a positioning message, wherein the positioning message includes time information for indicating the return of response information.

[0006] In this technology, the core network device sends a positioning message containing time information to instruct the access network device or terminal device to return a response message to the core network device within the time specified in the time information. Therefore, the time of each stage in the positioning process is controlled by the core network device, enabling the core network device to complete the positioning preparation work within the specified time range and reducing positioning latency.

[0007] Optionally, sending the location message includes:

[0008] Send location messages to access network devices;

[0009] or,

[0010] Send location messages to terminal devices.

[0011] In one implementation, the aforementioned time information is either the moment or the duration.

[0012] Optionally, the above location message can be any of the following:

[0013] Terminal device capability request message;

[0014] Location measurement result request message;

[0015] Location information request message; and,

[0016] Location activation request message.

[0017] In one implementation, the method further includes:

[0018] Receive a location request message, wherein the location request message includes a predetermined location time;

[0019] The time information is determined based on the predetermined location time.

[0020] Optionally, determining the time information based on the predetermined location time includes:

[0021] The time information is determined based on the predetermined location time and the time when the location request message is received.

[0022] Optionally, determining the time information based on the predetermined location time includes:

[0023] The time information is determined based on the predetermined location time and the type of the location message.

[0024] Secondly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a positioning method configured to be executed by an access network device, the method comprising:

[0025] Receive a location message, wherein the location message includes time information for indicating the return of response information.

[0026] In one implementation, the time information is a moment or a duration.

[0027] In one possible implementation, the time information is a specific moment, and the method further includes:

[0028] Return a response message before the stated time.

[0029] In yet another possible implementation, the time information is a time length, and the method includes:

[0030] In response to receiving the positioning message, a first timer is started;

[0031] Before the first timer reaches the specified time length, a response message is returned.

[0032] Optionally, the positioning message may be any of the following: a positioning information request message, a positioning measurement result request message, or a positioning activation request message.

[0033] Optionally, the location message is a location information request message, and the method further includes:

[0034] Within the time period indicated by the time information, the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device is returned, wherein the specified terminal device is the terminal device indicated in the positioning information request message.

[0035] Optionally, the location message is a location activation request message, and the method further includes:

[0036] Within the time specified in the time information, a location activation response message is returned.

[0037] Thirdly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a positioning method configured to be executed by a terminal device, the method comprising:

[0038] Receive a location message, wherein the location message includes time information for indicating the return of response information.

[0039] Optionally, the time information is a moment or a duration.

[0040] Optionally, the time information is a moment, and the method further includes:

[0041] Return a response message before the stated time.

[0042] Optionally, the time information is a time length, and the method includes:

[0043] In response to receiving the positioning message, a first timer is started;

[0044] Before the first timer reaches the specified time length, a response message is returned.

[0045] Optionally, the location message is a terminal device capability request message, and the method further includes:

[0046] Within the time period indicated by the time information, the positioning capability information of the terminal device is returned.

[0047] Fourthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device that implements some or all of the functions of the core network equipment described in the first aspect above. For example, the device may have the functions of some or all of the embodiments in this disclosure, or it may have the functions of any one embodiment in this disclosure implemented individually. The functions may be implemented by hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more units or modules corresponding to the above functions.

[0048] Fifthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device that implements some or all of the functions of the access network device described in the second aspect above. For example, the device may have the functions of some or all of the embodiments in this disclosure, or it may have the functions of any one embodiment in this disclosure implemented individually. The functions may be implemented by hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more units or modules corresponding to the above functions.

[0049] Sixthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device that implements some or all of the functions of the terminal device described in the third aspect above. For example, the device may have the functions of some or all of the embodiments in this disclosure, or it may have the functions of any one embodiment in this disclosure implemented individually. The functions may be implemented by hardware or by hardware executing corresponding software. The hardware or software includes one or more units or modules corresponding to the above functions.

[0050] In one implementation, the structures of the aforementioned devices may include a transceiver module and a processing module, wherein the processing module is configured to support the device in performing the corresponding functions in the aforementioned methods. The transceiver module is used to support communication between the device and other devices. The device may also include a storage module, which is coupled to the transceiver module and the processing module, and stores the computer programs and data necessary for the communication device.

[0051] As an example, the processing module can be a processor, the transceiver module can be a transceiver or a communication interface, and the storage module can be a memory.

[0052] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication device including a processor that, when the processor invokes a computer program in memory, executes the method described in the first aspect.

[0053] Eighthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device including a processor that, when the processor invokes a computer program in memory, executes the method described in the second aspect above.

[0054] Ninthly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device including a processor that, when the processor invokes a computer program in memory, executes the method described in the third aspect above.

[0055] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication device including a processor and a memory, the memory storing a computer program; the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to cause the communication device to perform the method described in the first aspect above.

[0056] Eleventhly, embodiments of this application provide a communication device, which includes a processor and a memory, wherein the memory stores a computer program; the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to cause the communication device to perform the method described in the second aspect above.

[0057] In a twelfth aspect, embodiments of this application provide a communication device including a processor and a memory, the memory storing a computer program; the processor executes the computer program stored in the memory to cause the communication device to perform the method described in the third aspect above.

[0058] In a thirteenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a computer-readable storage medium for storing instructions for use by the core network device described above, which, when executed, cause the core network device to perform the method described in the first aspect.

[0059] In a fourteenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a readable storage medium for storing instructions for use by the access network device described above, which, when executed, cause the access network device to perform the method described in the second aspect above.

[0060] In a fifteenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a readable storage medium for storing instructions for use by the aforementioned terminal device, which, when executed, cause the terminal device to perform the method described in the third aspect.

[0061] In a sixteenth aspect, this disclosure also provides a computer program product including a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method described in the first aspect above.

[0062] In a seventeenth aspect, this disclosure also provides a computer program product including a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method described in the second aspect above.

[0063] In an eighteenth aspect, this disclosure also provides a computer program product including a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method described in the third aspect above.

[0064] In a nineteenth aspect, this disclosure provides a chip system including at least one processor and an interface for supporting core network equipment in implementing the functions involved in the first aspect, such as determining or processing at least one of the data and information involved in the above methods. In one possible design, the chip system further includes a memory for storing computer programs and data necessary for the core network equipment. The chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.

[0065] In a twentieth aspect, this disclosure provides a chip system including at least one processor and an interface for supporting access network devices in implementing the functions involved in the second aspect, such as determining or processing at least one of the data and information involved in the above methods. In one possible design, the chip system further includes a memory for storing computer programs and data necessary for the access network device. The chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.

[0066] In a twentieth aspect, this disclosure provides a chip system including at least one processor and an interface for supporting a terminal device in implementing the functions involved in the third aspect, such as determining or processing at least one of the data and information involved in the above methods. In one possible design, the chip system further includes a memory for storing computer programs and data necessary for the terminal device. The chip system may be composed of chips or may include chips and other discrete devices.

[0067] In a twentieth aspect, this disclosure provides a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method described in the first aspect above.

[0068] In a twentieth aspect, this disclosure provides a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method described in the second aspect above.

[0069] In a twentieth aspect, this disclosure provides a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the method described in the third aspect above. Attached Figure Description

[0070] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments or background art of this disclosure, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments or background art of this disclosure will be described below.

[0071] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0072] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0073] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0074] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0075] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0076] Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0077] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0078] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0079] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0080] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0081] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0082] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0083] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0084] Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0085] Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0086] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0087] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0088] Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0089] Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device provided in an embodiment of this disclosure;

[0090] Figure 20 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0091] To facilitate understanding, the terminology used in this disclosure will be introduced first.

[0092] 1. LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) messages

[0093] LPP, as a universal positioning communication protocol, primarily functions to exchange positioning assistance data and positioning information between the network and the terminal. In practice, it can be used in both the control plane and the data plane.

[0094] LPP messages can be used for message transmission between core network equipment and terminal equipment.

[0095] 2. New Radio Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa) Message

[0096] NRPPa is a protocol used to standardize the control plane radio network layer signaling process between base stations and Location Management Function (LMF) devices. NRPPa messages between LMF and gNB can be divided into: non-UE associated messages and UE associated messages.

[0097] Among them, the Non-UE associated message can be used to transmit TRP information, measurement information, and auxiliary information between the base station and the LMF. The UE associated message can be used to transmit information related to a specified terminal device, such as the terminal device's TRP configuration information, between the base station and the LMF.

[0098] To better understand the positioning method disclosed in this embodiment, the communication system to which this embodiment applies is described below.

[0099] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system provided in an embodiment of the present disclosure. The communication system may include, but is not limited to, a core network device, an access network device, and a terminal device. Figure 1The number and form of devices shown are for illustrative purposes only and do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments of this disclosure. In actual applications, it may include two or more access network devices, two or more terminal devices, and two or more core network devices. Figure 1 The communication system shown is an example comprising a core network device 11, a terminal device 12, and an access network device 10.

[0100] It should be noted that the technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to various communication systems. For example, long-term evolution (LTE) systems, 5th generation (5G) mobile communication systems, 5G new radio (NR) systems, or other future new mobile communication systems. The base station 10 in this disclosure is a network-side entity used for transmitting or receiving signals. For example, the access network device 10 can be an evolved NodeB (eNB), a next-generation NodeB (gNB) in an NR system, a base station in other future mobile communication systems, or an access node in a wireless fidelity (WiFi) system. This disclosure does not limit the specific technology or device form used in the access network device.

[0101] The core network device 11 and access network device 10 provided in this embodiment can be composed of a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU), wherein the CU can also be called a control unit. By adopting the CU-DU structure, the protocol layer of network devices, such as base stations, can be separated. Some of the protocol layer functions are centrally controlled by the CU, while the remaining part or all of the protocol layer functions are distributed in the DU, which is centrally controlled by the CU.

[0102] The terminal device 12 in this disclosure is a user-side entity used to receive or transmit signals, such as a mobile phone. The terminal device can also be referred to as a terminal, user equipment (UE), mobile station (MS), mobile terminal (MT), etc. The terminal device can be a car with communication capabilities, a smart car, a mobile phone, a wearable device, a tablet computer, a computer with wireless transceiver capabilities, a virtual reality (VR) terminal device, an augmented reality (AR) terminal device, a wireless terminal device in industrial control, a wireless terminal device in self-driving, a wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, a wireless terminal device in a smart grid, a wireless terminal device in transportation safety, a wireless terminal device in a smart city, a wireless terminal device in a smart home, etc. The embodiments of this disclosure do not limit the specific technology or device form used in the terminal device.

[0103] It is understood that the communication system described in the embodiments of this disclosure is for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this disclosure. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of system architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in the embodiments of this disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0104] The positioning method and apparatus provided in this disclosure will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0105] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating a positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by a core network device. Figure 2 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0106] Step 21: Send a location message, which includes time information to indicate the return of response information.

[0107] The location message can be sent from the core network device to the access network device, or it can be sent from the core network device to the terminal device; this disclosure does not limit it in this respect.

[0108] The core network equipment can be LMF equipment, and this disclosure does not limit it.

[0109] Optional, the time information can be either the time of day or the duration of the time.

[0110] In other words, the core network equipment can instruct the access network equipment or terminal equipment when to return response information. For example, if the time information is time t1, it instructs the access network equipment or terminal equipment to return response information before time t1.

[0111] Alternatively, the core network device can instruct the access network device or terminal device to start timing from the moment it receives the location message from the core network device, and return a response message within the time length indicated by the time information. For example, if the time information is time length t2, and the access network device or terminal device receives the location message at time t3, then the access network device or terminal device needs to return a response message before time t3+t2.

[0112] Optionally, the location message can be any of the following: a terminal device capability request message; a location measurement result request message; a location information request message; and a location activation request message.

[0113] Among them, the terminal device capability request message is a message sent by the core network device to the terminal device to obtain the terminal device's positioning capability information, such as the LPP message: LPP Request Capabilities.

[0114] Among them, the positioning information request message is a message sent by the core network device to the access network device to obtain the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device, such as the NRPPa message: Positioninginformation request.

[0115] Among them, the Positioning Activation Request message is a message sent by the core network device to the access network device when the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information obtained by the core network device is non-periodic or semi-persistent. It is used to trigger the access network device to send an activation instruction to the terminal device to activate the uplink positioning reference signal specified in the terminal device, or to instruct the access network device to send a deactivation instruction to the terminal device to deactivate the uplink positioning reference signal specified in the terminal device. For example, NRPPa message: Positioning Activation Request.

[0116] Among them, the positioning measurement result request message is a message sent by the core network device to the access network device to obtain the uplink positioning reference signal measurement result, such as the NRPPa message: measurement request.

[0117] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the core network device instructs the access network device or terminal device to return response information to the core network device within the time specified in the time information by sending a positioning message containing time information. Therefore, the time of each stage in the positioning process is controlled by the core network device, thereby enabling the core network device to complete the positioning preparation work within the specified time range and reducing positioning latency.

[0118] Please see Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by a core network device. Figure 3 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0119] Step 31: Receive a location request message, wherein the location request message includes a predetermined location time.

[0120] The location request message can be sent to the core network equipment by the terminal device, location service agent, or application function (AF). The scheduled location time is the expected location measurement result time for the target terminal device, i.e., the time at which the target terminal performs location measurement, and / or the time at which the base station performs location measurement on the target terminal. For example, the scheduled location time is called "scheduled location time." This scheduled location time can be a moment or a duration; this disclosure does not limit it in this way.

[0121] Step 32: Determine the time information based on the predetermined location time.

[0122] The time information can be either a moment or a duration; this disclosure does not limit it.

[0123] Specifically, after receiving a positioning request message including the scheduled location time, the core network equipment can determine the time information corresponding to each positioning preparation process based on the process required for positioning preparation and the scheduled location time.

[0124] Optionally, the core network equipment can determine the time information based on the predetermined location time and the time when the location request message is received.

[0125] For example, if the time when the location request message is received is t m If the predetermined location time is a time length n, then the core network equipment can determine that it needs to be in time t. m Before time +n, return the location information, thus determining the time information corresponding to each location preparation process.

[0126] Alternatively, if the time when the location request message is received is tm The scheduled location time is time t. n Then the core network equipment can determine that it needs to be in t n Return location information before time t, that is, it needs to be done before time t. n -t m By completing each positioning preparation process within a given time period, the corresponding time information for each positioning preparation process can be determined.

[0127] It should be noted that the above examples are merely illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the time information in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0128] Optionally, the core network equipment can also determine the time information based on the predetermined location time and the type of location message.

[0129] In this disclosure, since the location message may be sent from the core network device to the access network device, or it may be sent to the terminal device, and different types of location messages may use different protocols, their corresponding data compression methods may be different, and thus the time taken for the access network device or the terminal device to process the message may be different, therefore, in this disclosure, the core network device can determine the time information based on the type of the location message and the predetermined location time.

[0130] For example, the time information corresponding to a location message that is a terminal device capability request message is different from the time information corresponding to a location information request message; or, the time information corresponding to a location message that is a terminal device capability request message is different from the time information corresponding to a location activation request message.

[0131] It should be noted that when the location message is any one of the terminal device capability request message, location measurement result request message, location information request message, and location activation request message, the corresponding time information can be the same or different.

[0132] Step 33: Send a location message, which includes time information to indicate the return of response information.

[0133] The specific implementation of the location message sent by the core network equipment and the type of the location message can be found in the detailed descriptions of other embodiments of this disclosure, and will not be repeated here.

[0134] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the core network device determines the time information contained in the location request message based on the received location request message containing a predetermined location time, so that both the access network device and the terminal device can return response information within the time indicated by the time information. Therefore, the core network device can complete the location preparation work within the predetermined location time, reducing the location latency.

[0135] Please see Figure 4 , Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by a core network device. Figure 4 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0136] Step 41: Receive a location request message sent by the terminal device, wherein the location request message includes a predetermined location time.

[0137] Step 42: Determine the time information corresponding to the location information request message based on the predetermined location time.

[0138] The specific implementation of steps 41 and 42 can be found in the detailed descriptions of other embodiments of this disclosure, and will not be repeated here.

[0139] Step 43: Send a location information request message to the access network device, wherein the location information request message includes time information for instructing the access network device to return response information.

[0140] The location information request message is a message sent by the core network device to the access network device to obtain the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device. The core network device can send the location information request message to the access network device via NRPPa messages.

[0141] The time information can be either a moment or a duration; this disclosure does not limit it.

[0142] Step 44: Receive the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device, returned by the access network device within the time specified in the time information. The specified terminal device is the terminal device indicated in the positioning information request message.

[0143] Access network devices can use NRPPa messages to return uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to a specified terminal device to core network devices.

[0144] For a detailed description of the specific implementation of this step, please refer to the other embodiments of this disclosure, which will not be repeated here.

[0145] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the core network device determines the time information corresponding to the received location request message containing a predetermined location time, then sends a location information request message containing the time information to the access network device, and receives the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device returned by the access network device within the time indicated by the time information. Therefore, the core network device can complete the positioning preparation work within the predetermined location time, reducing positioning latency.

[0146] Please see Figure 5 , Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by a core network device. Figure 5 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0147] Step 51: Send a location information request message to the access network device, wherein the location information request message includes time information for instructing the access network device to return response information.

[0148] The location information request message is a message sent by the core network device to the access network device to obtain the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device. The core network device can send the location information request message to the access network device via NRPPa messages.

[0149] The time information can be either a moment or a duration; this disclosure does not limit it.

[0150] Step 52: Receive the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device returned by the access network device within the time indicated by the time information.

[0151] The specified terminal device is the terminal device indicated in the location information request message.

[0152] Access network devices can use NRPPa messages to return uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to a specified terminal device to core network devices.

[0153] For a detailed description of the specific implementation of this step, please refer to the other embodiments of this disclosure, which will not be repeated here.

[0154] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the core network device sends a location information request message containing time information to the access network device, and receives uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device returned by the access network device within the time indicated by the time information. Therefore, the core network device can complete the positioning preparation work within a predetermined location time, reducing positioning latency.

[0155] Please see Figure 6 , Figure 6 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by a core network device. Figure 6 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0156] Step 61: Send a location activation request message to the access network device, wherein the location activation request message includes time information for indicating the return of response information.

[0157] Among them, the positioning activation request message is a message sent by the core network device to the access network device when the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information obtained by the core network device is non-periodic or semi-persistent. It is used to trigger the access network device to send an activation instruction to the terminal device to activate the uplink positioning reference signal specified in the terminal device, or to instruct the access network device to send a deactivation instruction to the terminal device to deactivate the uplink positioning reference signal specified in the terminal device.

[0158] Core network devices can send location activation request messages to access network devices via NRPPa messages.

[0159] Step 62: Receive the location activation response message returned by the access network device within the time indicated by the time information.

[0160] The location activation response message is a message returned by the access network device to the core network device, used to provide feedback on whether to activate or deactivate the uplink location reference signal specified in the terminal device.

[0161] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the core network device sends a location activation request message containing time information to the access network device, and receives a location activation response message returned by the access network device within the time indicated by the time information. Therefore, the core network device can complete the location preparation work within the predetermined location time, reducing location latency.

[0162] Please see Figure 7 , Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by a core network device. Figure 7 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0163] Step 71: Receive a location request message sent by the terminal device, wherein the location request message includes a predetermined location time.

[0164] Step 72: Determine the time information corresponding to the location information request message based on the predetermined location time.

[0165] Step 73: Send a location information request message to the access network device, wherein the location information request message includes time information for indicating the return of response information.

[0166] Step 74: Receive the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device returned by the access network device within the time indicated by the time information.

[0167] The specified terminal device is the terminal device indicated in the location information request message.

[0168] The specific implementation of steps 71-74 above can be found in the detailed descriptions of other embodiments of this disclosure, and will not be repeated here.

[0169] Step 75: Determine the time information corresponding to the location activation request message based on the predetermined location time.

[0170] The time information can be either a moment or a duration; this disclosure does not limit it.

[0171] In this embodiment of the disclosure, the time information corresponding to the location information request message and the time information corresponding to the location activation request message may be the same or different.

[0172] For a detailed description of the specific implementation of this step, please refer to the other embodiments of this disclosure, which will not be repeated here.

[0173] Step 76: Send a location activation request message to the access network device, wherein the location activation request message includes time information for indicating the return of response information.

[0174] Among them, the positioning activation request message is a message sent by the core network device to the access network device when the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information obtained by the core network device is non-periodic or semi-persistent. It is used to trigger the access network device to send an activation instruction to the terminal device to activate the uplink positioning reference signal specified in the terminal device, or to instruct the access network device to send a deactivation instruction to the terminal device to deactivate the uplink positioning reference signal specified in the terminal device.

[0175] Core network devices can send location activation request messages to access network devices via NRPPa messages.

[0176] Step 77: Receive the location activation response message returned by the access network device within the time indicated by the time information.

[0177] The location activation response message is a message returned by the access network device to the core network device, used to provide feedback on whether to activate or deactivate the uplink location reference signal specified in the terminal device.

[0178] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the core network device determines the time information corresponding to the received location request message containing a predetermined location time, then sends a location request message containing the time information to the access network device, and receives the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device returned by the access network device within the time indicated by the time information. Finally, it sends a positioning activation request message containing the time information to the access network device and receives the positioning activation response message returned by the access network device within the time indicated by the time information. Therefore, the core network device can complete the positioning preparation work within the predetermined location time, reducing positioning latency.

[0179] Please see Figure 8 , Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by a core network device. Figure 8 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0180] Step 81: Send a positioning measurement result request message to the access network device, wherein the positioning measurement result request message includes time information for instructing the access network device to return response information.

[0181] The time information can be either a moment or a duration; this disclosure does not limit it.

[0182] The positioning measurement result request message is a message sent by the core network equipment to the access network equipment to obtain the uplink positioning reference signal measurement result.

[0183] Step 82: Receive the positioning measurement result message returned by the access network device within the time indicated by the time information.

[0184] Access network devices can use NRPPa messages to return positioning measurement result messages to core network devices.

[0185] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the core network device sends a positioning measurement result request message containing time information to the access network device, and receives a positioning measurement result message returned by the access network device within the time indicated by the time information. Therefore, the core network device can complete the positioning preparation work within the predetermined location time, reducing positioning latency.

[0186] Please see Figure 9 , Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by a core network device. Figure 9 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0187] Step 91: Send a terminal device capability request message to the terminal device, wherein the terminal device capability request message includes time information for instructing the terminal device to return response information.

[0188] The time information can be either a moment or a duration; this disclosure does not limit it.

[0189] The Terminal Equipment Capability Request message is a message sent by the core network device to the terminal device to obtain the terminal device's location capability information. The core network device can send the Terminal Equipment Capability Request message to the terminal device via LPP messages.

[0190] Step 92: Receive the terminal device's positioning capability information returned by the terminal device within the time specified in the time information.

[0191] Terminal devices can use LPP messages to return their location capability information to core network devices.

[0192] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the core network device sends a terminal device capability request message containing time information to the terminal device, and receives the terminal device's positioning capability information returned by the terminal device within the time indicated by the time information. Therefore, the core network device can complete the positioning preparation work within the predetermined location time, reducing positioning latency.

[0193] Please see Figure 10 , Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by a core network device. Figure 10 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0194] Step 101: Receive a location request message, wherein the location request message includes a predetermined location time.

[0195] Step 102: Determine the time information corresponding to the terminal device capability request message based on the predetermined location time.

[0196] The specific implementation of steps 101 and 102 can be found in the detailed descriptions of other embodiments of this disclosure, and will not be repeated here.

[0197] Step 103: Send a terminal device capability request message to the terminal device, wherein the terminal device capability request message includes time information for instructing the terminal device to return response information.

[0198] The time information can be either a moment or a duration; this disclosure does not limit it.

[0199] The Terminal Equipment Capability Request message is a message sent by the core network device to the terminal device to obtain the terminal device's location capability information. The core network device can send the Terminal Equipment Capability Request message to the terminal device via LPP messages.

[0200] Step 104: Receive the terminal device's positioning capability information returned by the terminal device within the time specified in the time information.

[0201] Terminal devices can use LPP messages to return their location capability information to core network devices.

[0202] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the core network device determines the time information corresponding to the terminal device capability request message based on the received positioning request message containing a predetermined location time. The core network device then sends a terminal device capability request message containing the time information to the terminal device and receives the terminal device's positioning capability information returned by the terminal device within the time indicated by the time information. Therefore, the core network device can complete the positioning preparation work within the predetermined location time, reducing positioning latency.

[0203] Please see Figure 11 , Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by an access network device. Figure 11 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0204] Step 111: Receive a location message, wherein the location message includes time information for indicating the return of response information.

[0205] This location message is sent from the core network device to the access network device.

[0206] Optionally, the location message can be any of the following: a location information request message, a location measurement result request message, or a location activation request message.

[0207] Optionally, the time information can be either the moment or the duration.

[0208] Optionally, if the time information is a specific moment, the access network device will return a response before that moment.

[0209] For example, time information is time t. i Then the access network device needs to be in t i Return a response message before the specified time.

[0210] Optionally, if the time information is a time length, the access network device will start a first timer upon receiving the location message; and return a response message before the timer reaches the time length.

[0211] For example, time information is time length t a The time when the access network device receives the location message is t. b Then the access network device needs to be in t b The first timer starts at a certain time and continues until the timer reaches a duration t. a Before, that is, at time t b +t a Previously, a response message was returned.

[0212] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the access network device receives a location message sent by the core network device and returns a response message within the time specified in the time information. Thus, the access network device returns the response message within the time specified in the time information, enabling the core network device to complete the location preparation work within the prescribed time range, thereby reducing location latency.

[0213] Please see Figure 12 , Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by an access network device. Figure 12 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0214] Step 121: Receive a location information request message, wherein the location information request message includes time information of the core network device instructing the access network device to return response information.

[0215] The time information can be either a moment or a duration; this disclosure does not limit it.

[0216] Among them, the location information request message is a message sent by the core network device to the access network device to obtain the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device.

[0217] Step 122: Within the time specified by the time information, return the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device.

[0218] The specified terminal device is the terminal device indicated in the location information request message.

[0219] After receiving the location information request message sent by the core network device, the access network device needs to determine the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device, and return the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device within the time indicated by the time information.

[0220] Access network devices can return uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to a specified terminal device to core network devices via NRPPa messages.

[0221] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the access network device receives a location information request message sent by the core network device and, within the time indicated by the time information, returns the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device. This enables the core network device to complete the positioning preparation work within the specified time range, reducing positioning latency.

[0222] Please see Figure 13 , Figure 13This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by an access network device. Figure 13 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0223] Step 131: Receive a positioning measurement result request message sent by the core network device, wherein the positioning measurement result request message includes time information for instructing the access network device to return response information.

[0224] The time information can be either a moment or a duration; this disclosure does not limit it.

[0225] The positioning measurement result request message is a message sent by the core network equipment to the access network equipment to obtain the uplink positioning reference signal measurement result.

[0226] Step 132: Within the time specified in the time information, return the positioning measurement result message to the core network equipment.

[0227] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the access network device receives a positioning measurement result request message containing time information sent by the core network, and returns a positioning measurement result message within the time indicated by the time information. Therefore, the core network device can complete the positioning preparation work within the predetermined location time, reducing positioning latency.

[0228] Please see Figure 14 , Figure 14 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by an access network device. Figure 14 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0229] Step 141: Receive a location activation request message, wherein the location activation request message includes time information for instructing the access network device to return response information.

[0230] Among them, the positioning activation request message is a message sent by the core network to the access network when the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information obtained by the core network is non-periodic or semi-persistent. It is used to trigger the access network device to send an activation instruction to the terminal device to activate the specified uplink positioning reference signal in the terminal device, or to instruct the access network device to send a deactivation instruction to the terminal device to deactivate the specified uplink positioning reference signal in the terminal device.

[0231] Step 142: Within the time specified in the time information, return the location activation response message.

[0232] The location activation response message is a message returned by the access network device to the core network device, used to indicate whether the uplink location reference signal specified in the terminal device is activated or deactivated. The access network device can return a location activation response message to the core network device via NRPPa messages.

[0233] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the access network device receives a location activation request message sent by the core network device and returns a location activation response message within the time indicated by the time information. This enables the core network device to complete the location preparation work within the specified time range, reducing location latency.

[0234] Please see Figure 15 , Figure 15 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by an access network device. Figure 15 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0235] Step 151: Receive a location information request message, wherein the location information request message includes time information of the core network device instructing the access network device to return response information.

[0236] Step 152: Within the time specified by the time information, return the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device, wherein the specified terminal device is the terminal device indicated in the positioning information request message.

[0237] The specific implementation of steps 151 and 152 can be found in the detailed descriptions of other embodiments of this disclosure, and will not be repeated here.

[0238] Step 153: Receive a location activation request message, wherein the location activation request message includes time information for instructing the access network device to return response information.

[0239] Among them, the positioning activation request message is a message sent by the core network to the access network when the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information obtained by the core network is non-periodic or semi-persistent. It is used to trigger the access network device to send an activation instruction to the terminal device to activate the specified uplink positioning reference signal in the terminal device, or to instruct the access network device to send a deactivation instruction to the terminal device to deactivate the specified uplink positioning reference signal in the terminal device.

[0240] Step 154: Within the time specified in the time information, return the location activation response message.

[0241] The location activation response message is a message returned by the access network device to the core network device, used to indicate whether the uplink location reference signal specified in the terminal device is activated or deactivated. The access network device can return a location activation response message to the core network device via NRPPa messages.

[0242] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the access network device receives a positioning information request message and, within the time indicated by the time information, returns the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device. If the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information is a non-periodic or semi-persistent positioning reference signal, it receives a positioning activation request message and returns a positioning activation response message within the time indicated by the time information. This enables the core network device to complete the positioning preparation work within the specified time range, reducing positioning latency.

[0243] Please see Figure 16 , Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by a terminal device. Figure 16 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0244] Step 161: Receive a location message, wherein the location message includes time information for indicating the return of response information.

[0245] This location message is sent from the core network equipment to the terminal equipment.

[0246] Optionally, the location message is a terminal device capability request message.

[0247] Optionally, the time information can be either the moment or the duration.

[0248] Optionally, if the time information is a specific moment, the terminal device will return a response before that moment.

[0249] For example, time information is time t. c Then the terminal device needs to t c Return a response message before the specified time.

[0250] Optionally, if the time information is a time length, the terminal device will start a first timer upon receiving the location message; and return a response message before the timer reaches the time length.

[0251] For example, time information is time length t d The time when the terminal device receives the location message is t. e Then the terminal device needs to t e The first timer starts at a certain time and continues until the timer reaches a duration t. d Before, that is, at time te +t d Previously, a response message was returned.

[0252] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the terminal device receives a location message and returns a response message within the time indicated by the time information. This enables the core network equipment to complete the location preparation work within a specified time range, reducing location latency.

[0253] Please see Figure 17 , Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating another positioning method provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. The method is configured to be executed by a terminal device. Figure 17 As shown, the method may include, but is not limited to, the following steps:

[0254] Step 171: Receive a terminal device capability request message, wherein the terminal device capability request message includes time information indicating to the core network device that the terminal device should return response information.

[0255] The time information can be either a moment or a duration; this disclosure does not limit it.

[0256] Among them, the terminal device capability request message is sent by the core network device to the terminal device to obtain the terminal device's location capability information. The core network device can send the terminal device capability request message to the terminal device via LPP messages.

[0257] Step 172: Within the time specified in the time information, return the positioning capability information of the terminal device.

[0258] For example, if the time information is a specific moment, the terminal device needs to return its location capability information to the core network device via an LPP message before that moment. Alternatively, if the time information is a duration, the terminal device needs to start a first timer upon receiving the terminal device capability request message and return its location capability information before the first timer's count reaches the duration.

[0259] By implementing the embodiments of this disclosure, the terminal device receives a terminal device capability request message and returns the terminal device's positioning capability information within the time indicated by the time information. This enables the core network device to complete positioning preparations within a specified time frame, reducing positioning latency.

[0260] In the embodiments provided above, the methods provided by the present disclosure have been described from the perspectives of core network equipment, access network equipment, and terminal equipment, respectively. To implement the functions of the methods provided in the embodiments of the present disclosure, the core network equipment, access network equipment, and terminal equipment may include hardware structures and software modules, and may implement the above functions in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules. One of the above functions may be executed in the form of hardware structures, software modules, or a combination of hardware structures and software modules.

[0261] Please see Figure 18 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device 180 provided in an embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 18 The communication device 180 shown may include a transceiver module 1801 and a processing module 1802. The transceiver module 1801 may include a sending module and / or a receiving module. The sending module is used to implement the sending function, and the receiving module is used to implement the receiving function. The transceiver module 1801 can implement both sending and / or receiving functions.

[0262] The communication device 180 can be a core network device (such as the core network device in the aforementioned method embodiments), a device within a core network device, or a device compatible with the core network device. Alternatively, the communication device 180 can be an access network device (such as the access network device in the aforementioned method embodiments), a device within an access network device, or a device compatible with the access network device. Alternatively, the communication device 180 can also be a terminal device, a device within a terminal device, or a device compatible with the terminal device.

[0263] Specifically, if the communication device 180 is a core network device (such as the core network device in the aforementioned method embodiment):

[0264] The transceiver module 1801 is used to send a location message, wherein the location message includes time information for indicating the return of response information.

[0265] Optional, transceiver module 1801, specifically used for:

[0266] Send location messages to access network devices;

[0267] or,

[0268] Send location messages to terminal devices.

[0269] Optional, the time information can be either the time of day or the duration of the time.

[0270] Optionally, the location message can be any of the following:

[0271] Terminal device capability request message;

[0272] Location measurement result request message;

[0273] Location information request message; and,

[0274] Location activation request message.

[0275] Optional, transceiver module 1801, specifically used for:

[0276] Receive a location request message, which includes a predetermined location time;

[0277] Optionally, the communication device 180 may further include a processing module 1802 for determining time information based on a predetermined location time.

[0278] Optionally, the transceiver module 1801 is also used for:

[0279] The time information is determined based on the predetermined location time and the time when the location request message is received.

[0280] Optionally, the transceiver module 1801 is also used for:

[0281] Determine the time information based on the scheduled location time and the type of location message.

[0282] The communication device disclosed herein involves a core network device sending a positioning message including time information to access network devices and terminal devices, enabling the access network devices and terminal devices to return response information to the core network device within the time specified in the time information. Therefore, the core network device completes positioning preparation within a predetermined time frame, reducing positioning latency.

[0283] Alternatively, if the communication device 180 is an access network device:

[0284] The transceiver module 1801 is used to receive location messages, wherein the location messages include time information for indicating the return of response information.

[0285] Optionally, the time information can be either the moment or the duration.

[0286] Optionally, the time information is the exact moment. The transceiver module 1801 is specifically used for:

[0287] Return a response message before the specified time.

[0288] Optionally, the time information is the duration. The transceiver module 1801 is specifically used for:

[0289] In response to receiving a location message, start the first timer;

[0290] Return a response message before the first timer reaches its set duration.

[0291] Optionally, the location message can be any of the following: a location information request message, a location measurement result request message, or a location activation request message.

[0292] Optionally, the location message is a location information request message, and the transceiver module 1801 is specifically used for:

[0293] Within the time specified in the time information, return the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device, where the specified terminal device is the terminal device indicated in the positioning information request message.

[0294] Optionally, the location message is a location activation request message, which is sent and received by module 1801 and is specifically used for:

[0295] Return the location activation response message within the time specified in the time information.

[0296] The communication device disclosed herein allows the access network device to receive a positioning message sent by the core network device and return a response message within a time specified in the time information. This enables the core network device to complete positioning preparations within a defined timeframe, reducing positioning latency.

[0297] Therefore, core network equipment completes positioning preparation within a specified time frame, reducing positioning latency.

[0298] Alternatively, if the communication device 180 is a terminal device.

[0299] The transceiver module 1801 is used to receive location messages, wherein the location messages include time information for indicating the return of response information.

[0300] Optionally, the time information can be either the moment or the duration.

[0301] Optionally, the time information is the exact moment. The transceiver module 1801 is specifically used for:

[0302] Return a response message before the specified time.

[0303] Optionally, the time information is the duration. The transceiver module 1801 is specifically used for:

[0304] In response to receiving a location message, start the first timer;

[0305] Return a response message before the first timer reaches its set duration.

[0306] Optionally, the location message is a terminal device capability request message, and the transceiver module 1801 is specifically used for:

[0307] Within the time specified in the time information, the positioning capability information of the terminal device is returned.

[0308] Using the communication device provided in this disclosure, the terminal device receives a terminal device capability request message and returns the terminal device's positioning capability information within the time indicated by the time information. This enables the core network equipment to complete positioning preparations within a specified time frame, reducing positioning latency.

[0309] Please see Figure 19 , Figure 19 This is a schematic diagram of another communication device 19 provided in this embodiment. The communication device 19 can be a network device, a terminal device (such as the terminal device in the foregoing method embodiments), a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the network device in implementing the above methods, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the terminal device in implementing the above methods. This device can be used to implement the methods described in the above method embodiments; for details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0310] The communication device 190 may include one or more processors 1901. The processor 1901 may be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit (CPU). The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the CPU can be used to control the communication device (e.g., base station, baseband chip, terminal equipment, terminal equipment chip, DU or CU, etc.), execute computer programs, and process data from the computer programs.

[0311] Optionally, the communication device 190 may further include one or more memories 1902, on which a computer program 1904 may be stored. The processor 1901 executes the computer program 1904 to cause the communication device 190 to perform the methods described in the above method embodiments. Optionally, the memory 1902 may also store data. The communication device 190 and the memory 1902 may be provided separately or integrated together.

[0312] Optionally, the communication device 190 may also include a transceiver 1905 and an antenna 1906. The transceiver 1905 may be referred to as a transceiver unit, transceiver, or transceiver circuit, etc., and is used to implement the transmission and reception functions. The transceiver 1905 may include a receiver and a transmitter. The receiver may be referred to as a receiver or receiving circuit, etc., and is used to implement the receiving function; the transmitter may be referred to as a transmitter or transmitting circuit, etc., and is used to implement the transmitting function.

[0313] Optionally, the communication device 190 may further include one or more interface circuits 1907. The interface circuits 1907 are used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor 1901. The processor 1901 executes the code instructions to cause the communication device 190 to perform the methods described in the above method embodiments.

[0314] Communication device 190 is a core network device (such as the terminal device in the aforementioned method embodiment): transceiver 1905 is used to perform Figure 2 Step 21; Figure 3 Steps 31 and 33 in the process; execution Figure 4 Steps 41, 42, 43, and 44, etc., are executed by processor 1901. Figure 3 Step 32, etc.

[0315] Communication device 190 is an access network device: transceiver 1905 is used to perform... Figure 11 Step 111; Execute Figure 12 Steps 1211 and 122 in the process; execute Figure 13 Steps 131 and 132, etc.

[0316] Communication device 190 is a terminal device; transceiver 1905 can be used to perform execution. Figure 16 Step 161 in the middle; execute Figure 17 Steps 171 and 172, etc.

[0317] In one implementation, the processor 1901 may include a transceiver for implementing receive and transmit functions. For example, the transceiver may be a transceiver circuit, an interface, or an interface circuit. The transceiver circuit, interface, or interface circuit for implementing receive and transmit functions may be separate or integrated. The aforementioned transceiver circuit, interface, or interface circuit can be used for reading and writing code / data, or it can be used for transmitting or relaying signals.

[0318] In one implementation, processor 1901 may store computer program 1903, which runs on processor 1901 and causes communication device 190 to perform the methods described in the above method embodiments. Computer program 1903 may be embedded in processor 1901; in this case, processor 1901 may be implemented in hardware.

[0319] In one implementation, the communication device 190 may include circuitry capable of performing the functions of transmitting, receiving, or communicating as described in the foregoing method embodiments. The processor and transceiver described in this disclosure can be implemented on integrated circuits (ICs), analog ICs, radio frequency integrated circuits (RFICs), mixed-signal ICs, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), printed circuit boards (PCBs), electronic devices, etc. The processor and transceiver can also be manufactured using various IC process technologies, such as complementary metal oxide semiconductors (CMOS), n-metal-oxide-semiconductor (NMOS), positive-channel metal oxide semiconductors (PMOS), bipolar junction transistors (BJTs), bipolar CMOS (BiCMOS), silicon germanium (SiGe), gallium arsenide (GaAs), etc.

[0320] The communication device described in the above embodiments may be a network device or a terminal device (such as the terminal device in the foregoing method embodiments), but the scope of the communication device described in this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device may vary. Figure 19 The communication device may be a standalone device or part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may be:

[0321] (1) Independent integrated circuit IC, or chip, or chip system or subsystem;

[0322] (2) A collection of one or more ICs, optionally including storage components for storing data and computer programs;

[0323] (3) ASIC, such as modem;

[0324] (4) Modules that can be embedded in other devices;

[0325] (5) Receivers, terminal equipment, smart terminal equipment, cellular phones, wireless equipment, handheld devices, mobile units, vehicle-mounted equipment, network equipment, cloud equipment, artificial intelligence equipment, etc.

[0326] (6) Others, etc.

[0327] For cases where the communication device can be a chip or a chip system, please refer to [link / reference]. Figure 20 The diagram shows the structure of chip 200. Figure 20 The chip shown includes a processor 2001 and an interface 2002. There can be one or more processors 2001, and multiple interfaces 2002.

[0328] For cases where the chip is used to implement the functions of the core network device in the embodiments of this disclosure:

[0329] Interface 2002 is used for execution Figure 2 Step 21; Figure 3 Steps 31, 32, and 33 in the process; execute Figure 4 Steps 41, 42, 43, and 44, etc.

[0330] For cases where the chip is used to implement the functions of the access network device in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0331] Interface 2002 is used for execution Figure 11 Step 111; Execute Figure 12 Steps 1211 and 122 in the process; execute Figure 13 Steps 131 and 132, etc.

[0332] For cases where the chip is used to implement the functions of the terminal device in the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0333] Interface 2002 is used for execution Figure 16 Step 161 in the middle; execute Figure 17 Steps 171 and 172, etc.

[0334] Optionally, the chip also includes a memory 2003, which is used to store necessary computer programs and data.

[0335] Those skilled in the art will also understand that the various illustrative logical blocks and steps listed in the embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented by electronic hardware, computer software, or a combination of both. Whether such functionality is implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and the overall system design requirements. Those skilled in the art can implement the described functionality using various methods for each specific application, but such implementation should not be construed as exceeding the scope of protection of the embodiments of this disclosure.

[0336] This disclosure also provides a system for reporting uplink timing advance, the system comprising the aforementioned... Figure 14In the embodiments, the communication device serves as a terminal device and the communication device serves as a network device; alternatively, the system includes the aforementioned components. Figure 10 The embodiments include a communication device as a terminal device and a communication device as a network device.

[0337] This disclosure also provides a readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon that, when executed by a computer, implement the functions of any of the above method embodiments.

[0338] This disclosure also provides a computer program product that, when executed by a computer, implements the functions of any of the above method embodiments.

[0339] In the above embodiments, implementation can be achieved, in whole or in part, through software, hardware, firmware, or any combination thereof. When implemented in software, it can be implemented, in whole or in part, as a computer program product. The computer program product includes one or more computer programs. When the computer program is loaded and executed on a computer, all or part of the processes or functions described in the embodiments of this disclosure are generated. The computer can be a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a computer network, or other programmable device. The computer program can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium or transferred from one computer-readable storage medium to another. For example, the computer program can be transferred from one website, computer, server, or data center to another via wired (e.g., coaxial cable, fiber optic, digital subscriber line (DSL)) or wireless (e.g., infrared, wireless, microwave, etc.) means. The computer-readable storage medium can be any available medium accessible to a computer or a data storage device such as a server or data center that integrates one or more available media. The available media may be magnetic media (e.g., floppy disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes), optical media (e.g., high-density digital video discs (DVDs)), or semiconductor media (e.g., solid-state disks (SSDs)).

[0340] Those skilled in the art will understand that the various numerical designations such as "first," "second," etc., used in this disclosure are merely for the convenience of description and are not intended to limit the scope of the embodiments of this disclosure, nor do they indicate the order of events.

[0341] At least one of the features described in this disclosure can also be described as one or more, and multiple features can be two, three, four or more, and this disclosure does not impose any limitations. In the embodiments of this disclosure, for a technical feature, the technical features in that technical feature are distinguished by "first", "second", "third", "A", "B", "C" and "D", etc., and there is no sequential order or size order among the technical features described by "first", "second", "third", "A", "B", "C" and "D".

[0342] The correspondences shown in the tables of this disclosure can be configured or predefined. The values ​​of the information in each table are merely examples and can be configured to other values; this disclosure is not limiting. When configuring the correspondences between information and parameters, it is not necessarily required to configure all the correspondences shown in each table. For example, the correspondences shown in some rows of the tables in this disclosure may not be configured. Furthermore, appropriate modifications and adjustments can be made based on the above tables, such as splitting, merging, etc. The names of the parameters shown in the headers of the above tables can also use other names that the communication device can understand, and the values ​​or representations of the parameters can also be other values ​​or representations that the communication device can understand. In the implementation of the above tables, other data structures can also be used, such as arrays, queues, containers, stacks, linear lists, pointers, linked lists, trees, graphs, structures, classes, heaps, hash tables, or hash tables, etc.

[0343] The predefined terms in this disclosure can be understood as defined, predefined, stored, pre-stored, pre-negotiated, pre-configured, solidified, or pre-burned.

[0344] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this disclosure.

[0345] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0346] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this disclosure, but the scope of protection of this disclosure is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this disclosure should be included within the scope of protection of this disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection of this disclosure should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A positioning method, characterized by, The method is configured to be executed by a core network device, and the method includes: Receive a location request message, wherein the location request message includes a predetermined location time, wherein the predetermined location time is the time of the expected location measurement result; The time information for returning the response information is determined based on the predetermined location time; Send a location message, wherein the location message includes the time information.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, Sending the location message includes: Send location messages to access network devices; or, Send location messages to terminal devices.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, The time information is any one of the following: moment and duration.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein, The location message is any one of the following: Terminal device capability request message; Location measurement result request message; Location information request message; and, Location activation request message.

5. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining time information based on the predetermined location time includes: The time information is determined based on the predetermined location time and the time when the location request message is received.

6. The method as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The step of determining time information based on the predetermined location time includes: The time information is determined based on the predetermined location time and the type of the location message.

7. A positioning method, characterized in that, The method is configured to be executed by an access network device, and the method includes: Receive a location message, wherein the location message includes time information for indicating the return of response information, wherein the time information is determined based on a predetermined location time, and the predetermined location time is the time of the expected location measurement result.

8. The method as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The time information refers to a specific moment or a duration.

9. The method as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The time information is a specific moment, and the method further includes: Return a response message before the stated time.

10. The method as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The time information is the duration, and the method includes: In response to receiving the positioning message, a first timer is started; Before the first timer reaches the specified time length, a response message is returned.

11. The method according to any one of claims 7-10, characterized in that, The location message is any one of the following: a location information request message, a location measurement result request message, and a location activation request message.

12. The method as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The location message is a location information request message, and the method further includes: Within the time period indicated by the time information, the uplink positioning reference signal configuration information corresponding to the specified terminal device is returned, wherein the specified terminal device is the terminal device indicated in the positioning information request message.

13. The method as described in claim 11, characterized in that, The location message is a location activation request message, and the method further includes: Within the time specified in the time information, a location activation response message is returned.

14. A positioning method, characterized in that, The method is configured to be executed by a terminal device, and the method includes: Receive a location message, wherein the location message includes time information for indicating the return of response information, wherein the time information is determined based on a predetermined location time, and the predetermined location time is the time of the expected location measurement result.

15. The method as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The time information refers to a specific moment or a duration.

16. The method as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The time information is a specific moment, and the method further includes: Return a response message before the stated time.

17. The method as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The time information is the duration, and the method includes: In response to receiving the positioning message, a first timer is started; Before the first timer reaches the specified time length, a response message is returned.

18. The method according to any one of claims 14-17, characterized in that, The location message is a terminal device capability request message, and the method further includes: Within the time period indicated by the time information, the positioning capability information of the terminal device is returned.

19. A communication device, characterized in that, The device is configured in a core network device, and the device includes: The transceiver module is used to receive a positioning request message, wherein the positioning request message includes a predetermined location time, and the predetermined location time is the time of the expected positioning measurement result; The processing module is used to determine the time information for returning response information based on the predetermined location time; The transceiver module is also used to send a location message, wherein the location message includes the time information.

20. A communication device, characterized in that, The device is configured in an access network device, and the device includes: A transceiver module is used to receive positioning messages, wherein the positioning messages include time information for returning response information, wherein the time information is determined based on a predetermined location time, and the predetermined location time is the time of the expected positioning measurement result.

21. A communication device, characterized in that, The device is configured in a terminal device, and the device includes: A transceiver module is used to receive positioning messages, wherein the positioning messages include time information for returning response information, wherein the time information is determined based on a predetermined location time, and the predetermined location time is the time of the expected positioning measurement result.

22. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes a processor and a memory, the memory storing a computer program, the processor executing the computer program stored in the memory to cause the device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

23. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes a processor and a memory, the memory storing a computer program, the processor executing the computer program stored in the memory to cause the device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 7 to 13.

24. A communication device, characterized in that, The device includes a processor and a memory, the memory storing a computer program, the processor executing the computer program stored in the memory to cause the device to perform the method as described in any one of claims 14 to 18.

25. A communication device, characterized in that, include: Processor and interface circuitry; The interface circuit is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor; The processor is configured to run the code instructions to perform the method as described in any one of claims 1 to 6.

26. A communication device, characterized in that, include: Processor and interface circuitry; The interface circuit is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor; The processor is configured to run the code instructions to perform the method as described in any one of claims 7 to 13.

27. A communication device, characterized in that, include: Processor and interface circuitry; The interface circuit is used to receive code instructions and transmit them to the processor; The processor is configured to run the code instructions to perform the method as described in any one of claims 14 to 18.

28. A computer-readable storage medium for storing instructions that, when executed, cause the method of any one of claims 1 to 6 to be implemented.

29. A computer-readable storage medium for storing instructions that, when executed, cause the method as described in any one of claims 7 to 13 to be implemented.

30. A computer-readable storage medium for storing instructions that, when executed, cause the method of any one of claims 14 to 18 to be implemented.

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