Positioning using relays

Abstract

Methods, systems, and apparatus for wireless communications are described. The positioning of a user equipment (UE) can be determined when communications between the UE and a base station are routed through a relay node. For example, a UE 115 can determine whether a communication is received from a base station or a relay node based on positioning assistance data, the positioning assistance data containing positioning-related information about different base stations and relay nodes in the system. The UE can then send positioning metrics based on the determination, which a location server uses for determining the position of the UE. Additionally or alternatively, a location server or base station can use the positioning assistance data to determine whether an uplink transmission is received directly from the UE or via a relay node, and can generate positioning metrics, which the location server uses for determining the position of the UE.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application date of March 12, 2020, application number 202080019666.5, and invention name “Positioning using relay”.

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. patent application No. 16 / 815,810, filed on March 11, 2020, by Akkarkaran et al., entitled “POSITIONING WITH RELAYS,” which claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application No. 62 / 819,447, filed on March 15, 2019, by Akkarkaran et al., entitled “POSITIONING WITH RELAYS,” which is assigned to its assignee. Technical Field

[0004] The following relates generally to wireless communications and, more particularly, to positioning using relays. Background Art

[0005] Wireless communication systems are widely deployed to provide various types of communication content, such as voice, video, packet data, messaging, broadcast, etc. These systems can support communication for multiple users by sharing available system resources (e.g., time, frequency, and power). Examples of these multiple access systems include fourth generation (4G) systems, such as long term evolution (LTE) systems, advanced LTE (LTE-A) systems, or LTE-A Pro systems, and fifth generation (5G) systems, which may be referred to as new radio (NR) systems. These systems may employ techniques such as code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division multiple access (FDMA), orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA), or discrete Fourier transform spread spectrum orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (DFT-S-OFDM).

[0006] A wireless multiple access communication system may include multiple base stations or network access nodes, each base station or network access node simultaneously supporting communications for multiple communication devices, which may be otherwise referred to as user equipment (UE). A wireless communication network may implement techniques for tracking the location of a UE in the wireless communication network. In addition, in some cases, the wireless communication network may utilize relays to increase coverage for uplink data transmissions, downlink data transmissions, or both, where different data transmissions are routed through relays rather than direct transmissions between a base station and a UE. However, the utilization of relays in a wireless communication network may interfere with tracking the location of a UE based on the UE and / or base station not knowing whether the signal used to determine the location of the UE comes from a sending node (e.g., a base station or UE) or from a relay. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The described techniques relate to improved methods, systems, devices, and apparatuses for supporting positioning using relays. Generally, the described techniques provide for determining the positioning of a user equipment (UE) when communications between the UE and a base station are routed through a relay node. In some implementations, a location server may store positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information, such as a base station almanac (BSA)), which contains positioning-related information (e.g., cell identifiers, UE identifiers, geographic locations, beam identifiers, backhaul beams, access beams, node types, etc.) about different base stations and relay nodes in a wireless communication system. The location server may send this positioning assistance data to the UE via the base station and relay (e.g., via Long Term Evolution (LTE) Positioning Protocol (LPP) messages and a connection with the UE). In some cases, the UE may then receive one or more positioning reference signals (PRSs) and may use the positioning assistance data to determine whether the PRSs were received from a base station or a relay node. Accordingly, the UE may generate positioning metrics based on determining whether the PRSs were received from a base station or a relay, and may send the positioning metrics to the location server (e.g., via the relay node and the base station), where the location server determines the UE's position based on the positioning metrics. For example, positioning metrics may include detected time of arrival, angle of arrival, or both.

[0008] In some cases, the UE may determine whether the PRS is received from a base station or a relay node based on: the delay associated with the PRS (e.g., a PRS routed through a relay node may have a longer delay time); the azimuth, attenuation, or both of the angle of incidence of the relay node included in the almanac information; a PRS identifier or scrambling code associated with the PRS, which identifies which of the base station or relay node is transmitting the PRS; or a combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may determine a positioning metric based on an assumption that the PRS is received from a base station or a relay node, wherein the UE determines one or more candidate positioning metrics (e.g., or a pair of candidate positioning metrics) based on the assumption. The UE may then select the candidate positioning metric from the assumption as a positioning metric (e.g., a round-trip time (RTT) positioning metric) based on an outlier rejection scheme. In some cases, the base station may perform a similar determination process to generate a positioning metric based on receiving the PRS from the UE and using the almanac information. The base station may then send the positioning metric to a location server to enable the location server to determine the UE's position (location).

[0009] A method of wireless communication by a UE is described. The method may include receiving positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) indicating that a first node is operating as a relay for a second node (e.g., operating as a base station), receiving a position signaling relay (PRS), and generating a positioning metric based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS.

[0010] An apparatus for wireless communication by a UE is described. The apparatus may include a processor, a memory in electronic communication with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions are executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to receive positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) indicating that a first node is operating as a relay for a second node (e.g., operating as a base station); receive a position signaling relay (PRS); and generate positioning metrics based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS.

[0011] Another apparatus for wireless communication by a UE is described. The apparatus may include means for receiving positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) indicating that a first node is operating as a relay for a second node (e.g., operating as a base station), means for receiving a position signaling relay (PRS), and means for generating a positioning metric based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS.

[0012] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication by a UE is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to receive positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) indicating that a first node is operating as a relay for a second node (e.g., operating as a base station); receive a position signaling relay (PRS); and generate positioning metrics based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS.

[0013] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for determining, based on the positioning assistance data, that the PRS is received from the first node and generating a positioning metric based on the determination that the PRS is received from the first node.

[0014] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for determining, based on the positioning assistance data, that the PRS is received from the second node and generating a positioning metric based on the determination that the PRS is received from the second node.

[0015] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for selecting a third node to be monitored that is not associated with the relay node based on the positioning assistance data, wherein the PRS is received from the third node.

[0016] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the positioning assistance data may include a first node type indicating that the first node is a relay node and a second node type indicating that the second node is a base station.

[0017] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for processing positioning assistance data to determine one or more of a cell identifier, a UE identifier, a geographic location, or a beam identifier for the first node, the second node, or both.

[0018] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for processing positioning assistance data to determine one or more of an antenna array configuration, an antenna panel configuration, an orientation, a first node, a beam pattern, a backhaul beam, or an access beam of the first node, the second node, or both.

[0019] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for processing positioning assistance data to determine a backhaul gain between a first node and a second node, an access gain between the first node and a UE, or both.

[0020] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for processing positioning assistance data to determine whether the first node is an active relay or a passive relay.

[0021] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for processing positioning assistance data to determine an azimuth, an attenuation, or both of at least one incident angle of the first node.

[0022] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for processing positioning assistance data to determine a delay introduced by the first node when relaying the transmission.

[0023] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the positioning metric may include a detected time of arrival, angle of arrival, or both.

[0024] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for determining that a PRS is from one of a first node or a second node based on a PRS identifier (PRS-ID) or a scrambling code associated with the PRS.

[0025] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for determining a positioning metric based on one or more of arrival time, propagation time, relay delay, or any combination thereof of a detected PRS.

[0026] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for determining a first candidate positioning metric based on a first assumption that the PRS is received from the first node; determining a second candidate positioning metric based on a second assumption that the PRS is received from the second node; and selecting one of the first candidate positioning metric and the second candidate positioning metric as the positioning metric based on an outlier rejection scheme.

[0027] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for determining a first candidate positioning metric pair based on a first assumption that the PRS is received from the first node; determining a second candidate positioning metric pair based on a second assumption that the PRS is received from the second node; and selecting one of the first candidate positioning metric pair and the second candidate positioning metric pair as the positioning metric based on an outlier rejection scheme, wherein the positioning metric is an RTT positioning metric.

[0028] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for sending positioning metrics to a second node or a location server.

[0029] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for determining a geographic location of a UE based on positioning metrics.

[0030] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the positioning metric may be a differential measurement.

[0031] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for receiving an indication to avoid using the first and second nodes when generating a differential measurement.

[0032] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the indication may be an LPP message, an RRC message, a medium access control (MAC) control element (CE), or downlink control information (DCI).

[0033] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for determining to avoid using the first and second nodes in generating differential measurements based on receiving side information indicating the presence of a relay.

[0034] A method of wireless communication by a relay node is described. The method may include receiving a transmission time interval (TTI) format indication indicating whether the TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI; receiving a transmission for relaying within the TTI; and relaying the transmission during the TTI according to the TTI format indication.

[0035] An apparatus for wireless communication by a relay node is described. The apparatus may include a processor, a memory in electronic communication with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions are executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to receive a TTI format indication indicating whether a TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI; receive a transmission for relaying within the TTI; and relay the transmission during the TTI according to the TTI format indication.

[0036] Another apparatus for wireless communication by a relay node is described. The apparatus may include means for receiving a TTI format indication indicating whether a TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI, means for receiving a transmission for relaying within the TTI, and means for relaying the transmission during the TTI according to the TTI format indication.

[0037] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication by a relay node is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to receive a TTI format indication indicating whether a TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI; receive a transmission for relaying within the TTI; and relay the transmission during the TTI according to the TTI format indication.

[0038] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for receiving a configuration indicating an uplink amplification level for relaying uplink transmissions from a UE to a base station and a downlink amplification level for relaying downlink transmissions from the base station to the UE, wherein the transmissions are relayed according to the configuration.

[0039] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, relaying the transmission may include operations, features, components, or instructions for relaying the uplink transmission to the base station according to the uplink amplification level.

[0040] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, relaying the transmission may include operations, features, components, or instructions for relaying the downlink transmission to the UE according to the downlink amplification level.

[0041] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for processing a configuration to determine a reference signal configuration, wherein the transmission is relayed according to the reference signal configuration.

[0042] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the reference signal configuration may be a channel state information reference signal configuration (CSI-RS), a synchronization signal block (SSB) configuration, a sounding reference signal (SRS) configuration, a PRS configuration, or any combination thereof.

[0043] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for processing a configuration to determine a subset of channels of a set of channels to be relayed, wherein the transmission is received within a first channel of the subset of channels.

[0044] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for processing a configuration to determine an uplink power control configuration, wherein the transmission is sent according to the uplink power control configuration.

[0045] A method of wireless communication performed by a location server is described. The method may include sending positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) indicating that a first node is operating as a relay (e.g., for a base station, a UE, etc.); receiving positioning metrics generated based on the positioning assistance data and a PRS; and determining a geographic location of the UE based on the positioning metrics.

[0046] An apparatus for wireless communication by a location server is described. The apparatus may include a processor, a memory in electronic communication with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions are executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to send positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) instructing a first node to operate as a relay (e.g., for a base station, a UE, etc.); receive positioning metrics generated based on the positioning assistance data and a PRS; and determine a geographic location of the UE based on the positioning metrics.

[0047] Another apparatus for wireless communication by a location server is described. The apparatus may include means for transmitting positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) indicating that a first node is operating as a relay (e.g., for a base station, a UE, etc.); means for receiving positioning metrics generated based on the positioning assistance data and a PRS; and means for determining a geographic location of the UE based on the positioning metrics.

[0048] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication by a location server is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to send positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) instructing a first node to operate as a relay (e.g., for a base station, a UE, etc.); receive positioning metrics generated based on the positioning assistance data and a PRS; and determine a geographic location of the UE based on the positioning metrics.

[0049] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for determining, based on the positioning assistance data, that the PRS is received from the first node and generating a positioning metric based on the determination that the PRS is received from the first node.

[0050] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for generating a positioning metric based on determining that the PRS is received from a base station based on the positioning assistance data and based on determining that the PRS is received from a second node.

[0051] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the positioning assistance data indicates one or more of a cell identifier, a UE identifier, a geographic location, or a beam identifier of the first node, the second node, or both.

[0052] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the positioning assistance data indicates one or more of an antenna array configuration, an antenna panel configuration, an orientation, or a beam pattern of the first node, the second node, or both.

[0053] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the positioning assistance data indicates a backhaul gain between the first node and the second node, an access gain between the first node and the UE, or both.

[0054] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the positioning assistance data may indicate whether the first node is an active relay or a passive relay.

[0055] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the positioning assistance data may indicate an azimuth, an attenuation, or both of at least one angle of incidence of the first node.

[0056] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the positioning assistance data may indicate a delay introduced by the first node when relaying the transmission.

[0057] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the positioning metric may include a detected time of arrival, angle of arrival, or both.

[0058] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for generating a PRS based on a PRS-ID and transmitting the PRS.

[0059] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for generating a PRS based on scrambling the PRS using a scrambling code and transmitting the generated PRS.

[0060] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for determining a first candidate positioning metric based on a first assumption that the PRS is received from the first node; determining a second candidate positioning metric based on a second assumption that the PRS is received from the base station; and selecting one of the first candidate positioning metric and the second candidate positioning metric as the positioning metric based on an outlier rejection scheme.

[0061] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for determining a first candidate positioning metric pair based on a first assumption that the PRS is received from the first node; determining a second candidate positioning metric pair based on a second assumption that the PRS is received from the base station; and selecting one of the first candidate positioning metric pair and the second candidate positioning metric pair as the positioning metric based on an outlier elimination scheme, wherein the positioning metric is an RTT positioning metric.

[0062] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for determining a geographic location of a UE based on positioning metrics.

[0063] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the positioning metric may be a differential measurement.

[0064] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for sending an indication to avoid using a reference signal sent by the first node or base station when generating differential measurements.

[0065] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the indication may be an LPP message, an RRC message, a MAC-CE, or a DCI.

[0066] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the location server may be co-located with the base station.

[0067] A method of wireless communication by a base station is described. The method may include receiving, from a UE, positioning metrics generated based on a PRS and positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information), the positioning assistance data indicating that the first node is operating as a relay for the base station; and sending the positioning metrics to a location server.

[0068] An apparatus for wireless communication by a base station is described. The apparatus may include a processor, a memory in electronic communication with the processor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions are executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to receive positioning metrics generated from a UE based on a PRS and positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information), the positioning assistance data indicating that a first node is operating as a relay for the base station; and transmit the positioning metrics to a location server.

[0069] Another apparatus for wireless communication by a base station is described. The apparatus may include means for receiving, from a UE, positioning metrics generated based on a PRS and positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information), the positioning assistance data indicating that a first node is operating as a relay for the base station; and means for sending the positioning metrics to a location server.

[0070] A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication by a base station is described. The code may include instructions executable by a processor to receive positioning metrics generated from a UE based on a PRS and positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information), the positioning assistance data indicating that the first node is operating as a relay for the base station; and send the positioning metrics to a location server.

[0071] Some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for sending an indication to avoid using a second PRS sent by the first node or base station when generating a positioning metric including a differential measurement.

[0072] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, the indication may be an LPP message, an RRC message, a MAC-CE, or a DCI.

[0073] In some examples of the methods, apparatus, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein, a base station may be co-located with a location server.

[0074] Some examples of the methods, apparatuses, and non-transitory computer-readable media described herein may also include operations, features, components, or instructions for transmitting a PRS. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0075] Figure 1

[0014] An example of a system for wireless communications in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0076] Figure 2 An example of a wireless communication system according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0077] Figure 3 An example of a process flow according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0078] Figure 4 and Figure 5 A block diagram of a device according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0079] Figure 6 A block diagram of a user equipment (UE) communications manager is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0080] Figure 7 A diagram of a system including devices according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0081] Figure 8 and Figure 9 A block diagram of a device according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0082] Figure 10 A block diagram of a location server communications manager is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0083] Figure 11 A diagram of a system including devices according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0084] Figure 12 and Figure 13 A block diagram of a device according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0085] Figure 14 A block diagram of a base station communications manager is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0086] Figure 15 A diagram of a system including devices according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0087] Figure 16 and Figure 17 A block diagram of a device according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0088] Figure 18 A block diagram of a relay node communications manager is shown, in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure.

[0089] Figure 19 A diagram of a system including devices according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown.

[0090] Figures 20 to 26 A flow chart illustrating a method according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0091] In some wireless communication systems, relay nodes can be used to increase or extend the coverage of data transmission and reception, such as in hard-to-reach coverage areas. However, the use of relay nodes in wireless communication systems may interfere with positioning functions, for example, in situations where a user equipment (UE) can receive signals from a relay node and / or a base station. For example, a UE receiving a positioning signal (e.g., a positioning reference signal (PRS)) may not be able to determine whether the positioning signal is from a donor node (e.g., a donor base station or a donor cell) or from a relay node. As described herein, when communications between a UE and a base station are routed through a relay node, the positioning (e.g., location) of the UE may be determined based on positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) that the UE uses to determine whether the PRS is received from a base station or from a relay node. The UE may then send associated information (e.g., positioning metrics) to a location server based on the determination, which the location server then uses to determine the location of the UE.

[0092] In some cases, the location server may be a core network entity, such as an enhanced Serving Mobile Location Center (eSMLC) or a Location Management Function (LMF), or the same functionality may be implemented in the Radio Access Network (RAN). For example, the functionality of the location server may be implemented in a base station (e.g., a Gigabit-NodeB (gNB)) or a Location Measurement Unit (LMU), which may be included within or co-located with the base station. Additionally or alternatively, in UE-based positioning techniques, relevant positioning assistance data may be provided to the UE, for example, by a location server, so that the UE may use this information, as well as positioning information measured by the UE (such as positioning metrics), to determine its own positioning. The UE determining its own positioning may avoid the need for the UE to send its positioning measurements back to the network (e.g., via a location server, via a base station, etc.).

[0093] In addition, the location server may store positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information, such as a base station almanac (BSA), PRS configuration information, etc.), which contains positioning-related information about different base stations and relay nodes in the wireless communication system (e.g., cell identifiers, UE identifiers, geographic locations, beam identifiers, backhaul beams, access beams, node types, etc.). The location server may send this positioning assistance data to the UE via the base station and relay node (e.g., via Long Term Evolution (LTE) Positioning Protocol (LPP) messages and a connection with the UE). After receiving the PRS, the UE may use the positioning assistance data to determine whether the PRS was received from a base station or a relay node. Accordingly, the UE may generate positioning metrics based on determining whether the PRS was received from a base station or a relay node, wherein the positioning metrics include a detected time of arrival, angle of arrival, or both. The UE may then send the positioning metrics to the location server (e.g., via the relay node and / or the base station), wherein the location server determines the UE's position based on the positioning metrics.

[0094] In some cases, the UE may determine whether the PRS is received from a base station or a relay node based on: a delay associated with the PRS (e.g., a PRS routed through a relay node may have a longer delay time); an azimuth, attenuation, or both of the angle of incidence of the relay node based on positioning-related information in the almanac information; a PRS identifier or scrambling code associated with the PRS, which identifies which of the base station or relay node is transmitting the PRS; or a combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may determine a positioning metric based on an assumption that the PRS is received from a base station or a relay node, wherein the UE determines one or more candidate positioning metrics (e.g., or a candidate positioning metric pair) based on the assumption. The UE may then select a candidate positioning metric from the assumption as a positioning metric (e.g., a round-trip time (RTT) positioning metric) based on an anomaly rejection scheme. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may report all candidate positioning metrics to a location server, which may then perform an anomaly rejection scheme.

[0095] In some cases, a location server and / or a base station may perform a similar determination process to generate positioning metrics based on receiving a PRS from a UE and using almanac information. When the positioning metrics are generated by the base station or received by the base station from a UE that generated the positioning metrics, the base station may then send the positioning metrics to the location server to enable the location server to determine the location (e.g., position) of the UE.

[0096] Various aspects of the present disclosure are initially described in the context of wireless communication systems. Furthermore, various aspects of the present disclosure are illustrated by additional wireless communication system and process flow examples. Various aspects of the present disclosure are further illustrated and described with reference to apparatus diagrams, system diagrams, and flow charts related to positioning using relays.

[0097] Figure 1 An example of a wireless communication system 100 that supports positioning using relays according to various aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated. The wireless communication system 100 includes a base station 105, a UE 115, and a core network 130. In some examples, the wireless communication system 100 can be a long term evolution (LTE) network, an advanced LTE (LTE-A) network, an LTE-A Pro network, or a new radio (NR) network. In some cases, the wireless communication system 100 can support enhanced broadband communication, ultra-reliable (e.g., mission-critical) communication, low-latency communication, or communication with low-cost and low-complexity devices.

[0098] The base station 105 can communicate wirelessly with the UE 115 via one or more base station antennas. The base station 105 described herein may include or may be referred to by those skilled in the art as a base transceiver station, a radio base station, an access point, a radio transceiver, a NodeB, an eNodeB (eNB), a next generation NodeB or a giganodeB (any of which may be referred to as a gNB), a Home NodeB, a Home eNodeB, or some other suitable terminology. The wireless communication system 100 may include different types of base stations 105 (e.g., macro cell base stations or small cell base stations). The UE 115 described herein may be able to communicate with various types of base stations 105 and network devices, including macro eNBs, small cell eNBs, gNBs, relay base stations, etc.

[0099] Each base station 105 may be associated with a particular geographic coverage area 110 in which it supports communications with various UEs 115. Each base station 105 may provide communication coverage for the corresponding geographic coverage area 110 via a communication link 125, and the communication link 125 between the base station 105 and the UE 115 may utilize one or more carriers. The communication link 125 shown in the wireless communication system 100 may include an uplink transmission from the UE 115 to the base station 105, or a downlink transmission from the base station 105 to the UE 115. Downlink transmissions may also be referred to as forward link transmissions, while uplink transmissions may also be referred to as reverse link transmissions.

[0100] The geographic coverage area 110 of a base station 105 can be divided into sectors that constitute a portion of the geographic coverage area 110, and each sector can be associated with a cell. For example, each base station 105 can provide communication coverage for a macrocell, a small cell, a hotspot, or other types of cells, or various combinations thereof. In some examples, the base stations 105 can be mobile and, therefore, provide communication coverage for mobile geographic coverage areas 110. In some examples, different geographic coverage areas 110 associated with different technologies can overlap, and the overlapping geographic coverage areas 110 associated with different technologies can be supported by the same base station 105 or different base stations 105. The wireless communication system 100 can include, for example, a heterogeneous LTE / LTE-A / LTE-A Pro or NR network, in which different types of base stations 105 provide coverage for various geographic coverage areas 110.

[0101] The term "cell" refers to a logical communication entity used to communicate with base station 105 (e.g., via a carrier), and can be associated with an identifier (e.g., a physical cell identifier (PCID), a virtual cell identifier (VCID)) used to distinguish between adjacent cells operating via the same or different carriers. In some examples, a carrier can support multiple cells, and different cells can be configured according to different protocol types that can provide access to different types of devices (e.g., machine type communication (MTC), narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT), enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), or other). In some cases, the term "cell" can refer to a portion of the geographic coverage area 110 (e.g., a sector) on which the logical entity operates.

[0102] UE 115 can be dispersed throughout the wireless communication system 100, and each UE 115 can be stationary or mobile. UE 115 can also be referred to as a mobile device, a wireless device, a remote device, a handheld device, or a subscriber device, or some other suitable terminology, where "device" can also be referred to as a unit, a station, a terminal, or a client. UE 115 can be a personal electronic device, such as a cellular phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a tablet computer, a laptop computer, or a personal computer. In some examples, UE 115 can also refer to a wireless local loop (WLL) station, an Internet of Things (IoT) device, an Internet of Everything (IoE) device, or an MTC device, etc., which can be implemented in various articles of manufacture, such as appliances, vehicles, meters, etc.

[0103] Some UEs 115, such as MTC or IoT devices, may be low-cost or low-complexity devices and may provide automated communication between machines (e.g., via machine-to-machine (M2M) communication). M2M communication or MTC may refer to data communication technology that allows devices to communicate with each other or with a base station 105 without human intervention. In some examples, M2M communication or MTC may include communications from devices that integrate sensors or meters to measure or capture information and relay the information to a central server or application that may utilize the information or present the information to a person interacting with the program or application. Some UEs 115 may be designed to collect information or enable automated behavior of machines. Examples of applications for MTC devices include smart metering, inventory monitoring, water level monitoring, equipment monitoring, healthcare monitoring, wildlife monitoring, weather and geological event monitoring, fleet management and tracking, remote security sensing, physical access control, and transaction-based billing for services.

[0104] Some UEs 115 may be configured to employ an operating mode that reduces power consumption, such as half-duplex communication (e.g., a mode that supports one-way communication via transmission or reception, but not simultaneous transmission and reception). In some examples, half-duplex communication may be performed at a reduced peak rate. Other power conservation techniques for the UE 115 include entering a power-saving "deep sleep" mode when not engaged in active communication, or operating on a limited bandwidth (e.g., in accordance with narrowband communication). In some cases, the UE 115 may be designed to support critical functions (e.g., mission-critical functions), and the wireless communication system 100 may be configured to provide ultra-reliable communication to these functions.

[0105] In some cases, a UE 115 may also be able to communicate directly with other UEs 115 (e.g., using a peer-to-peer (P2P) or device-to-device (D2D) protocol). One or more UEs in a group of UEs 115 utilizing D2D communication may be within the geographic coverage area 110 of the base station 105. Other UEs 115 in the group may be outside the geographic coverage area 110 of the base station 105 or otherwise unable to receive transmissions from the base station 105. In some cases, multiple groups of UEs 115 communicating via D2D communication may utilize a one-to-many (1:M) system in which each UE 115 transmits to each other UE 115 in the group. In some cases, the base station 105 facilitates resource scheduling for the D2D communication. In other cases, D2D communication is performed between the UEs 115 without the involvement of the base station 105.

[0106] The base stations 105 can communicate with the core network 130 and with each other. For example, the base stations 105 can interface with the core network 130 via a backhaul link 132 (e.g., via an S1, N2, N3, or other interface). The base stations 105 can communicate with each other directly (e.g., directly between the base stations 105) or indirectly (e.g., via the core network 130) via a backhaul link 134 (e.g., via an X2, Xn, or other interface).

[0107] The core network 130 may provide user authentication, access authorization, tracking, Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity, and other access, routing, or mobility functions. The core network 130 may be an evolved packet core (EPC), which may include at least one mobility management entity (MME), at least one serving gateway (S-GW), and at least one packet data network (PDN) gateway (P-GW). The MME may manage non-access stratum (e.g., control plane) functions such as mobility, authentication, and bearer management for UEs 115 served by base stations 105 associated with the EPC. User IP packets may be delivered through the S-GW, which itself may be connected to the P-GW. The P-GW may provide IP address allocation and other functions. The P-GW may be connected to network operator IP services. Operator IP services may include access to the Internet, intranet(s), IP multimedia subsystem (IMS), or packet switched (PS) streaming services.

[0108] At least some of the network devices, such as the base station 105, may include subcomponents such as access network entities, which may be examples of access node controllers (ANCs). Each access network entity may communicate with the UE 115 through multiple other access network transmission entities, which may be referred to as radio heads, smart radio heads, or transmit / receive points (TRPs). In some configurations, the various functions of each access network entity or base station 105 may be distributed across various network devices (e.g., radio heads and access network controllers) or consolidated into a single network device (e.g., the base station 105).

[0109] The wireless communication system 100 can operate using one or more frequency bands typically in the range of 300 megahertz (MHz) to 300 gigahertz (GHz). Generally, the region from 300 MHz to 3 GHz is referred to as the ultra-high frequency (UHF) region or decimeter band because the wavelength distance is from about 1 decimeter to 1 meter long. Buildings and environmental features may block or redirect UHF waves. However, the waves can sufficiently penetrate the structure of the macrocell to provide service to UEs 115 located indoors. Compared to transmission using the lower frequencies and longer waves of the high frequency (HF) or very high frequency (VHF) portion of the spectrum below 300 MHz, transmission of UHF waves can be associated with smaller antennas and shorter distances (e.g., less than 100 km).

[0110] The wireless communication system 100 may also operate in the Super High Frequency (SHF) region using frequency bands from 3 GHz to 30 GHz (also known as centimeter bands). The SHF region includes frequency bands such as the 5 GHz Industrial, Scientific, and Medical (ISM) band, which may be used opportunely by devices that may be able to tolerate interference from other users.

[0111] The wireless communication system 100 can also operate in the extremely high frequency (EHF) region of the spectrum (e.g., from 30 GHz to 300 GHz), also known as millimeter band. In some examples, the wireless communication system 100 can support millimeter wave (mmW) communications between the UE 115 and the base station 105, and the EHF antennas of each device can be even smaller and more closely spaced than the UHF antennas. In some cases, this can facilitate the use of antenna arrays within the UE 115. However, the propagation of EHF transmissions may be subject to even greater atmospheric attenuation and a shorter range than SHF or UHF transmissions. The techniques disclosed herein can be employed between transmissions using one or more different frequency regions, and the designated use of frequency bands across these frequency regions may vary by country or regulatory body.

[0112] In some cases, the wireless communication system 100 can utilize both licensed and unlicensed RF spectrum bands. For example, the wireless communication system 100 can employ licensed assisted access (LAA), unlicensed LTE (LTE-U) radio access technology, or NR technology in an unlicensed band such as the 5 GHz ISM band. When operating in an unlicensed RF spectrum band, wireless devices such as the base station 105 and the UE 115 can employ a listen before talk (LBT) process to ensure that the frequency channel is clear before sending data. In some cases, operations in the unlicensed band can be based on a carrier aggregation configuration in conjunction with component carriers operating in a licensed band (e.g., LAA). Operations in the unlicensed spectrum can include downlink transmissions, uplink transmissions, peer to peer transmissions, or a combination of these transmissions. Duplexing in the unlicensed spectrum can be based on frequency division duplexing (FDD), time division duplexing (TDD), or a combination of both.

[0113] In some examples, the base station 105 or the UE 115 may be equipped with multiple antennas, which may be used to employ techniques such as transmit diversity, receive diversity, multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) communication, or beamforming. For example, the wireless communication system 100 may employ a transmission scheme between a transmitting device (e.g., the base station 105) and a receiving device (e.g., the UE 115), wherein the transmitting device is equipped with multiple antennas and the receiving device is equipped with one or more antennas. MIMO communication may utilize multipath signal propagation to improve spectral efficiency by transmitting or receiving multiple signals via different spatial layers, which may be referred to as spatial multiplexing. For example, the multiple signals may be transmitted by the transmitting device via different antennas or different antenna combinations. Similarly, the multiple signals may be received by the receiving device via different antennas or different antenna combinations. Each of the multiple signals may be referred to as a separate spatial stream and may carry bits associated with the same data stream (e.g., the same codeword) or different data streams. Different spatial layers may be associated with different antenna ports for channel measurement and reporting. MIMO technology includes single-user MIMO (SU-MIMO), in which multiple spatial layers are transmitted to the same receiving device, and multi-user MIMO (MU-MIMO), in which multiple spatial layers are transmitted to multiple devices.

[0114] Beamforming (which may also be referred to as spatial filtering, directional transmission, or directional reception) is a signal processing technique that can be used at a transmitting device or a receiving device (e.g., a base station 105 or a UE 115) to shape or steer an antenna beam (e.g., a transmit beam or a receive beam) along a spatial path between the transmitting device and the receiving device. Beamforming can be achieved by combining signals communicated via antenna elements in an antenna array so that signals propagating in a particular direction relative to the antenna array experience constructive interference, while other signals experience destructive interference. Adjustments to the signals communicated via the antenna elements can include the transmitting device or the receiving device applying certain amplitude and phase offsets to the signals carried via each antenna element associated with the device. The adjustments associated with each antenna element can be defined by a set of beamforming weights associated with a particular direction (e.g., relative to the antenna array of the transmitting device or the receiving device, or relative to some other direction).

[0115] In one example, the base station 105 can use multiple antennas or antenna arrays to perform beamforming operations for directional communication with the UE 115. For example, some signals (e.g., synchronization signals, reference signals, beam selection signals, or other control signals) can be transmitted multiple times by the base station 105 in different directions, which can include transmitting the signals according to different sets of beamforming weights associated with different transmission directions. The transmissions in different beam directions can be used (e.g., by the base station 105 or a receiving device such as the UE 115) to identify the beam direction for subsequent transmissions and / or receptions by the base station 105.

[0116] Some signals (such as data signals associated with a particular receiving device) may be transmitted by base station 105 in a single beam direction (e.g., a direction associated with a receiving device such as UE 115). In some examples, the beam direction associated with transmission along the single beam direction may be determined based at least in part on signals transmitted in different beam directions. For example, UE 115 may receive one or more signals transmitted by base station 105 in different directions, and UE 115 may report to base station 105 an indication of the signal it received with the highest signal quality or other acceptable signal quality. Although these techniques are described with reference to signals transmitted by base station 105 in one or more directions, UE 115 may employ similar techniques for transmitting signals multiple times in different directions (e.g., to identify beam directions for subsequent transmission or reception by UE 115), or for transmitting signals in a single direction (e.g., to transmit data to a receiving device).

[0117] When receiving various signals (such as synchronization signals, reference signals, beam selection signals, or other control signals) from base station 105, a receiving device (e.g., UE 115, which may be an example of a mmW receiving device) may try multiple receive beams. For example, the receiving device may try multiple receive directions by receiving via different antenna subarrays, processing received signals according to different antenna subarrays, receiving according to different receive beamforming weight sets applied to signals received at multiple antenna elements of an antenna array, or processing received signals according to different receive beamforming weight sets applied to signals received at multiple antenna elements of an antenna array, any of which may be referred to as "listening" according to different receive beams or receive directions. In some examples, the receiving device may use a single receive beam to receive along a single beam direction (e.g., when receiving data signals). The single receive beam may be aligned on a beam direction determined at least in part based on listening according to different receive beam directions (e.g., a beam direction determined to have the highest signal strength, highest signal-to-noise ratio, or other acceptable signal quality based at least in part on listening according to multiple beam directions).

[0118] In some cases, the antennas of a base station 105 or a UE 115 may be located within one or more antenna arrays that support MIMO operations, or transmit or receive beamforming. For example, one or more base station antennas or antenna arrays may be co-located at an antenna assembly, such as an antenna tower. In some cases, the antennas or antenna arrays associated with a base station 105 may be located at different geographic locations. A base station 105 may have an antenna array with multiple rows and columns of antenna ports that the base station 105 may use to support beamforming for communications with a UE 115. Similarly, a UE 115 may have one or more antenna arrays that may support various MIMO or beamforming operations.

[0119] In some cases, the wireless communication system 100 can be a packet-based network that operates according to a layered protocol stack. In the user plane, the communication at the bearer or packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer can be IP-based. The radio link control (RLC) layer can perform packet segmentation and reassembly to communicate over logical channels. The medium access control (MAC) layer can perform priority processing and multiplex logical channels into transport channels. The MAC layer can also use hybrid automatic repeat request (HARQ) to provide retransmission at the MAC layer to improve link efficiency. In the control plane, the radio resource control (RRC) protocol layer can provide the establishment, configuration and maintenance of the RRC connection between the UE 115 and the base station 105 or the core network 130 that supports the radio bearer for user plane data. At the physical layer, the transport channel can be mapped to the physical channel.

[0120] In some cases, UE 115 and base station 105 can support retransmission of data to increase the possibility of successfully receiving data. HARQ feedback is a technology that increases the possibility of correctly receiving data through communication link 125. HARQ can include a combination of error detection (e.g., using cyclic redundancy check (CRC)), forward error correction (FEC) and retransmission (e.g., automatic repeat request (ARQ)). HARQ can improve the throughput at the MAC layer under poor radio conditions (e.g., signal-to-noise ratio conditions). In some cases, a wireless device can support HARQ feedback for the same time slot, wherein the device can provide HARQ feedback for data received in the previous symbol in a specific time slot. In other cases, the device can provide HARQ feedback in a subsequent time slot or according to some other time interval.

[0121] Time intervals in LTE or NR can be expressed as multiples of a basic time unit, which can refer to, for example, T s = a sampling period of 1 / 30,720,000 seconds. The time intervals of the communication resources may be organized according to radio frames each having a duration of 10 milliseconds (ms), where the frame period may be denoted as T f =307,200T s . A radio frame may be identified by a system frame number (SFN) ranging from 0 to 1023. Each frame may include 10 subframes numbered from 0 to 9, and each subframe may have a duration of 1 ms. A subframe may be further divided into 2 slots, each slot having a duration of 0.5 ms, and each slot may contain 6 or 7 modulation symbol periods (e.g., depending on the length of a cyclic prefix prepended to each symbol period). In addition to the cyclic prefix, each symbol period may contain 2048 sampling periods. In some cases, a subframe may be the minimum scheduling unit of the wireless communication system 100 and may be referred to as a transmission time interval (TTI). In other cases, the minimum scheduling unit of the wireless communication system 100 may be shorter than a subframe, or may be dynamically selected (e.g., in a burst of a shortened TTI (sTTI), or in a selected component carrier using an sTTI).

[0122] In some wireless communication systems, a time slot can be further divided into multiple mini-slots containing one or more symbols. In some cases, a symbol of a mini-slot or a mini-slot can be the smallest unit of scheduling. For example, the duration of each symbol can vary depending on the subcarrier spacing or the frequency band of operation. In addition, some wireless communication systems can implement time slot aggregation, in which multiple time slots or mini-slots are aggregated and used for communication between UE 115 and base station 105.

[0123] The term "carrier" refers to a collection of radio frequency spectrum resources that have a defined physical layer structure for supporting communications over the communication link 125. For example, a carrier of the communication link 125 may include a portion of a radio frequency spectrum band that operates according to a physical layer channel for a given radio access technology. Each physical layer channel may carry user data, control information, or other signaling. A carrier may be associated with a predefined frequency channel (e.g., an Evolved Universal Mobile Telecommunications System Terrestrial Radio Access (E-UTRA) Absolute Radio Frequency Channel Number (EARFCN)) and may be located according to a channel grid for discovery by a UE 115. A carrier may be downlink or uplink (e.g., in FDD mode), or configured to carry downlink communications and uplink communications (e.g., in TDD mode). In some examples, the signal waveform transmitted on a carrier may be composed of multiple subcarriers (e.g., using a multicarrier modulation (MCM) technique such as orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) or discrete Fourier transform spread OFDM (DFT-S-OFDM)).

[0124] The organization structure of the carrier can be different for different radio access technologies (e.g., LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro, NR, etc.). For example, the communication on the carrier can be organized according to TTI or time slot, and each TTI or time slot can include user data and control information or signaling used to support decoding of the user data. The carrier can also include dedicated acquisition signaling (e.g., synchronization signals or system information, etc.) and control signaling to coordinate the operation of the carrier. In some examples (e.g., in a carrier aggregation configuration), the carrier can also have acquisition signaling or control signaling to coordinate the operation of other carriers.

[0125] Physical channels may be multiplexed on a carrier according to various techniques. Physical control channels and physical data channels may be multiplexed on a downlink carrier, for example, using time division multiplexing (TDM), frequency division multiplexing (FDM), or a hybrid TDM-FDM technique. In some examples, control information sent in a physical control channel may be distributed in a concatenated manner between different control regions (e.g., between a common control region or common search space and one or more UE-specific control regions or UE-specific search spaces).

[0126] A carrier can be associated with a particular bandwidth of the radio frequency spectrum, and in some examples, the carrier bandwidth can be referred to as the "system bandwidth" of the carrier or wireless communication system 100. For example, the carrier bandwidth can be one of a plurality of predetermined bandwidths of the carrier for a particular radio access technology (e.g., 1.4, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 40, or 80 MHz). In some examples, each served UE 115 can be configured to operate on part or all of the carrier bandwidth. In other examples, some UEs 115 can be configured to operate using a narrowband protocol type associated with a predefined portion or range (e.g., a set of subcarriers or RBs) within a carrier (e.g., an "in-band" deployment of a narrowband protocol type).

[0127] In a system employing MCM technology, a resource element may consist of a symbol period (e.g., the duration of a modulation symbol) and a subcarrier, where the symbol period and subcarrier spacing are inversely related. The number of bits carried by each resource element may depend on the modulation scheme (e.g., the order of the modulation scheme). Therefore, the more resource elements a UE 115 receives and the higher the order of the modulation scheme, the higher the data rate of the UE 115 may be. In a MIMO system, wireless communication resources may refer to a combination of radio frequency spectrum resources, time resources, and spatial resources (e.g., spatial layers), and the use of multiple spatial layers may further increase the data rate of communication with the UE 115.

[0128] A device of the wireless communication system 100 (e.g., a base station 105 or a UE 115) may have a hardware configuration that supports communication on a specific carrier bandwidth, or may be configured to support communication on one carrier bandwidth in a set of carrier bandwidths. In some examples, the wireless communication system 100 may include a base station 105 and / or a UE 115 that supports simultaneous communication via carriers associated with more than one different carrier bandwidths.

[0129] The wireless communication system 100 may support communication with the UE 115 on multiple cells or carriers, a feature that may be referred to as carrier aggregation or multi-carrier operation. The UE 115 may be configured with multiple downlink component carriers and one or more uplink component carriers according to a carrier aggregation configuration. Carrier aggregation may be used with both FDD component carriers and TDD component carriers.

[0130] In some cases, the wireless communication system 100 can utilize an enhanced component carrier (eCC). An eCC can be characterized by one or more characteristics, including a wider carrier or frequency channel bandwidth, a shorter symbol duration, a shorter TTI duration, or a modified control channel configuration. In some cases, an eCC can be associated with a carrier aggregation configuration or a dual connectivity configuration (e.g., when multiple serving cells have suboptimal or non-ideal backhaul links). An eCC can also be configured for use in unlicensed spectrum or shared spectrum (e.g., where more than one operator is allowed to use the spectrum). An eCC characterized by a wide carrier bandwidth can include one or more segments that can be utilized by UEs 115 that are unable to monitor the entire carrier bandwidth or are otherwise configured to use a limited carrier bandwidth (e.g., to save power).

[0131] In some cases, an eCC may utilize a different symbol duration than other component carriers, which may include using a reduced symbol duration compared to the symbol duration of other component carriers. The shorter symbol duration may be associated with an increased spacing between adjacent subcarriers. A device utilizing an eCC, such as a UE 115 or a base station 105, may transmit a wideband signal (e.g., according to a frequency channel or carrier bandwidth of 20, 40, 60, 80 MHz, etc.) with a reduced symbol duration (e.g., 16.67 microseconds). A TTI in an eCC may consist of one or more symbol periods. In some cases, the TTI duration (i.e., the number of symbol periods in a TTI) may be variable.

[0132] The wireless communication system 100 may be an NR system that may utilize any combination of licensed, shared, and unlicensed spectrum bands. The flexibility of eCC symbol duration and subcarrier spacing may allow the use of eCC across multiple spectrums. In some examples, NR shared spectrum may specifically increase spectrum utilization and spectrum efficiency through dynamic vertical sharing (e.g., across the frequency domain) and horizontal sharing (e.g., across the time domain) of resources.

[0133] The serving base station 105 (or a location server) of the UE 115 can track the position or location of the UE 115. Various positioning techniques can be used to track the UE 115. In some examples, the UE 115 can be configured to send one or more uplink PRSs to the serving base station 105 and one or more neighboring base stations 105, or the UE 115 can be configured to receive one or more downlink PRSs from the serving base station and one or more neighboring base stations 105. In some implementations, the uplink PRS or the downlink PRS, or both, can be sent on a channel defined specifically for positioning purposes, or can be sent on a channel or signal used for separate signaling, such as a synchronization signal, a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS), a sounding reference signal (SRS), etc., which can also be used to determine the location of the UE 115.

[0134] For uplink PRS, base station 105 and neighboring base stations 105 may exchange information associated with the reception of uplink PRS, such as reference signal time difference (RSTD) measurements, for example, via backhaul link 134. The network (including a location server, base station 105, or both) may then determine the location of UE 115 based on one or more uplink PRS transmissions. For downlink PRS transmissions, UE 115 may receive PRS (or other signaling) from each of one or more base stations 105. In some examples, UE 115 may estimate its position based on measurements, such as RSTD measurements performed by UE 115 on downlink PRS transmissions.

[0135] Additionally or alternatively, the UE 115 may send a measurement report for one or more received downlink PRSs to the serving base station 105 (which may forward the measurement report to the location server). Typically, positioning techniques may be UE-based or UE-assisted. In UE-based positioning, the UE 115 may perform a positioning estimate without feeding back RSTD measurements to the network (e.g., via the base station 105). In UE-assisted positioning, the UE 115 may provide RSTD measurements, and the network (e.g., serving base station 105, location server, etc.) may use the RSTD measurements to perform a positioning estimate. The UE 115 may be configured for a UE-based mode, a UE-assisted mode, or a mode combining aspects of both. The positioning mode may be selected based on a connection initialization configuration, downlink control information (DCI), a MAC control element (CE), or the like.

[0136] In some wireless communication systems, relay nodes can be used to increase or extend the coverage of data transmission and reception, such as in hard-to-reach coverage areas. However, the use of relay nodes in a wireless communication system may interfere with positioning functions, such as in situations where a UE 115 may receive signals from a relay node and / or a base station 105. For example, a UE 115 receiving a positioning signal (e.g., a PRS) may not be able to determine whether the positioning signal is from a donor node (e.g., a donor base station 105 or a donor cell) or from a relay node (e.g., a passive or active relay).

[0137] When communications between a UE 115 and a base station 105 are routed through a relay node, the wireless communication system 100 can support efficient techniques for determining the location of the UE 115. For example, the UE 115 can determine whether a communication (e.g., a PRS) is received from a base station 105 or a relay node based on positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information, PRS configuration information, etc.), the positioning assistance data containing positioning-related information (e.g., cell identifiers, UE identifiers, geographic locations, beam identifiers, backhaul beams, access beams, node types, etc.) about different base stations and relay nodes in the wireless communication system. The UE 115 can then send positioning metrics (e.g., information associated with its positioning) to a location server (e.g., via the base station 105) based on the determination, where the location server uses the positioning metrics to determine the location of the UE 115. Additionally or alternatively, base station 105 may use positioning assistance data to determine whether an uplink transmission (e.g., uplink PRS) was received directly from UE 115 or via a relay node, and may generate positioning metrics to send to a location server, which the location server then uses for determining the position of UE 115. In some cases, the positioning metrics may include a detected time of arrival, angle of arrival, or both.

[0138] In some cases, the UE 115 and / or the base station 105 may determine whether a corresponding communication (e.g., a downlink PRS for the UE 115 or an uplink PRS for the base station 105) is received from another wireless device (e.g., the base station 105 or the UE 115, respectively) or from a relay node based on: a delay associated with the communication (e.g., a PRS routed through a relay node may have a longer delay time); an azimuth, attenuation, or both of the angle of incidence of the relay node based on positioning-related information in the almanac information; a PRS identifier or scrambling code associated with the PRS, which identifies which of the wireless device or relay node is transmitting the PRS; or a combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the UE 115 and / or the base station 105 may determine a positioning metric based on one or more hypotheses that the PRS is received from another wireless device or relay node, wherein the UE 115 and / or the base station 105 determine one or more candidate positioning metrics (e.g., or a pair of candidate positioning metrics) based on the hypotheses. The UE 115 and / or the base station 105 may then select a candidate positioning metric from the hypotheses as a positioning metric (eg, an RTT positioning metric) based on an anomaly elimination scheme.

[0139] Figure 2 An example of a wireless communication system 200 that supports positioning using relays according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. In some examples, the wireless communication system 200 can implement aspects of the wireless communication system 100. The wireless communication system 200 can include a base station 105-a and a UE 115-a, which can be examples of corresponding base stations 105 and UE 115, respectively, as described above with reference to FIG. Figure 1 as described. In some cases, the UE 115-a may be located at the edge of the geographic coverage area 110-a associated with the base station 105-a or in a similarly hard-to-reach area of ​​the geographic coverage area 110-a (e.g., there are multiple physical obstacles in the way), which hinders direct communication between the UE 115-a and the base station 105-a. Additionally or alternatively, although not shown, the UE 115-a may be outside the geographic coverage area 110-a, thereby reducing the ability of the base station 105-a to effectively communicate with the UE 115-a. Therefore, the wireless communication system 200 may also include a relay 205 (e.g., a relay node) that both the base station 105-a and the UE 115-a can use to route corresponding communications (e.g., downlink transmissions and / or uplink transmissions), thereby increasing the geographic coverage area 110-a of the base station 105-a for different communications. Base station 105-a and relay 205 may communicate on resources of carrier 215-a, and relay 205 and UE 115-a may communicate on resources of carrier 215-b. In some cases, separate relays may be used for uplink and downlink transmissions.

[0140] In some implementations, the relays 205 can be passive relays or active relays. For example, passive relays can include forwarding relays (e.g., reflectors) and amplify-and-forward relays (e.g., repeaters). At the radio frequency (RF) level, passive relays can capture and retransmit signals, with or without amplification before retransmission. The use of passive relays can reduce the number of active nodes required for the wireless communication system 200. For example, reflectors strategically located in a factory automation scenario can reduce the number of more active (and therefore more expensive) nodes required, such as base stations 105 (e.g., gNBs), thereby reducing the overall cost of factory automation.

[0141] Additionally or alternatively, the active relay can decode and forward signals. For example, the active relay can act as a UE 115; receive a signal from a base station 105 (e.g., or an additional UE 115); decode the information (e.g., to determine which UE 115 to forward the information to, determine what information to resend to the UE 115, etc.); decode the information again (e.g., based on a specific encoding or scrambling sequence of the active relay); and forward the signal and information to the UE 115. Additionally or alternatively, the active relay can act as a base station 105 and similarly resend (e.g., rebroadcast) any signals received from the UE 115 to an additional base station 105 (e.g., or an additional UE 115).

[0142] However, the use of relays 205 in the wireless communication system 200 may interfere with positioning functionality, e.g., in situations where a UE 115-a may receive signals from the relay 205, the base station 105-a, or both (e.g., or an additional UE 115). For example, the UE 115-a may receive a positioning signal (e.g., a PRS) and may not be able to determine whether the positioning signal is from a donor node (e.g., the base station 105-a, another donor base station, an additional UE 115, or a donor cell) or from the relay 205. As described herein, various approaches may be outlined for improving positioning determination of the UE 115-a by the UE 115-a and / or the base station 105-a in the presence of the relay 205 (e.g., a relay node).

[0143] In some cases, the wireless communication system 200 may also include a location server 210 that tracks the positioning of wireless devices in the system (e.g., including UE 115-a, base stations 105-a, and relays 205). The location server 210 may always know the location of the base station 105-a and relays 205 based on their static locations, but may need additional information about the UE 115-a (e.g., collected through downlink and / or uplink PRS transmissions) to determine the location of the UE 115-a (e.g., via positioning determination 225). Therefore, the location server 210 may store positioning-related information (e.g., BSA, PRS configuration information, etc.) for the base stations 105 (e.g., including base stations 105-a and relays 205) in the wireless communication system 200 in the almanac 220. In some cases, in Figure 2 In the example depicted in , the almanac 220 can be an example of positioning assistance data. For example, the almanac 220 can include positioning-related information about the base stations 105 in the wireless communication system 200, such as the physical (e.g., geographic) location of each base station 105, the antenna array / panel configuration and orientation, the beam pattern (e.g., backhaul beam and / or access beam), etc. In addition, the almanac 220 can contain information identifying the node "type" of each base station 105. For example, the node "type" can indicate whether the base station 105 is a "conventional" (e.g., macro or micro) base station 105 (e.g., gNB), a home base station 105 (e.g., or gNB), or a relay (e.g., an active relay or a passive relay or a transponder or a reflector relay, respectively). In some cases, the location server 210 can be co-located with the base station 105-a (e.g., located within the base station 105-a).

[0144] For relay nodes (e.g., including relay 205), almanac 220 may include additional information about the relay node, beyond just the node "type." For example, for a relay intended to extend the coverage of one or more specific cells (e.g., the geographic coverage area 110-a of base station 105-a), almanac 220 may include information about the cell(s). The information about the cell(s) may include identification of the cell(s) (e.g., cell IDs), the geographic location of the relay node and cell(s), identification of a specific beam of the donor cell for the coverage extension (e.g., a specific beam ID), or a combination thereof. In some cases, almanac 220 may include a UE identifier (e.g., when UE 115 is acting as a relay for base station 105, where the location / positioning of UE 115 is known and indicated in the almanac information). In addition, the almanac 220 may include information indicating the antenna array / panel configuration and / or orientation of the relay node, as well as information indicating the beam pattern and beam gain of the relay node for both the backhaul link (e.g., from the relay 205 to the base station 105-a or to the additional parent / donor base station 105 via carrier 215-a) and the access link (e.g., from the relay 205 to the UE 115-a or to the additional end UE 115 via carrier 215-b).

[0145] In some cases, if relay 205 is a completely passive relay (e.g., a reflector), almanac 220 may include azimuth, expected attenuation, or both for different angles of incidence. Additionally or alternatively, if relay 205 is a repeater or active relay, almanac 220 may include delays introduced by the repeater or active relay. For an amplify-and-forward repeater (e.g., an RF repeater), the introduced delay may be smaller (e.g., based on increasing or decreasing the power of the transmission but not decoding any information included in the data transmission, in which case the delay includes RF front-end and amplifier delays at the receiver and transmitter), but may be used to determine the location of UE 115-a (e.g., precise location). Additionally or alternatively, for a decode-and-forward repeater, the introduced delay may be relatively much larger than for an amplify-and-forward repeater (e.g., based on decoding information in the data transmission before forwarding it to a particular UE 115) and may be considered for determining the location of UE 115-a (e.g., precise location).

[0146] In some cases, the UE 115-a may obtain the almanac 220 via a system information block (SIB) message, a master information block (MIB) message, or a dedicated RRC configuration. For example, the location server 210 may first send the almanac 220-a to the base station 105-a. Subsequently, the base station 105-a may then send the almanac 220-b to the relay 205 on the carrier 215-a, where the relay 205 then resends (e.g., forwards) the almanac 220-c to the UE 115-a on the carrier 215-b. In some cases, the location server 210 may send the almanac 220 to the UE 115-a for use as described above with reference to FIG. Figure 1 Thus, almanac 220 may be sent directly from location server 210 to UE 115-a via base station 105-a (e.g., and relay 205), where base station 105-a may or may not be able to read the positioning-related information in almanac 220. For example, location server 210 and UE 115-a may include an LPP connection that is a direct connection between the two devices, where the connection passes through base station 105-a, but base station 105-a may or may not be able to read data on the connection.

[0147] As mentioned herein, the use of relay nodes (e.g., relay 205) in the wireless communication system 200 can lead to confusion and ambiguity at either end of communications between a base station 105-a and a UE 115-a (e.g., a PRS receiver). For example, when a UE 115-a detects or receives a downlink PRS in a communication area (e.g., geographic coverage area 110-a) that includes one or more base stations 105 (e.g., base station 105-a or another source / donor node) and one or more relay nodes (e.g., relay 205), the UE 115-a may be unable to determine whether the downlink PRS is from the base station 105-a or from the relay 205. In some cases, if UE 115-a receives downlink PRS from base station 105-a and relay 205 by line of sight (LOS) (e.g., there are no obstacles or reflection paths from reflectors other than the relay between UE 115-a and base station 105-a or relay 205), UE 115-a may identify a later received downlink PRS as coming from relay 205 (e.g., the PRS routed through relay 205 will take longer to reach UE 115-a than the PRS received directly from base station 105-a). However, if one or both of the downlink PRS received from base station 105-a and relay 205 are non-LOS (NLOS) or obstructed, UE 115-a may not be able to distinguish whether the downlink PRS is coming from base station 105-a or from relay 205.

[0148] Furthermore, additional ambiguity may apply to both the detected time of arrival and angle of arrival of downlink PRS received from base station 105-a and / or relay 205, particularly if relay 205 is a passive relay (e.g., a repeater / reflector). If relay 205 is an active relay, relay 205 may transmit the same or differentiated PRS (e.g., including a different signature, such as a different PRS-ID than that used by base station 105-a, a different scrambling code, etc.). For example, when relay 205 is an active relay, relay 205 may transmit PRS similar to PRS transmission in a remote radio head (RRH) deployment, where each different geographic RRH location has its own PRS-ID. If relay 205 (e.g., as an active relay) uses the same PRS as base station 105-a (e.g., a donor base station), the same confusion as with passive relays may occur (i.e., a UE 115-a receiving a PRS may not be able to determine whether the PRS is from relay 205 or base station 105-a based on the same identifier of the PRS). Additionally or alternatively, the above ambiguity may also occur in uplink PRS transmissions. For example, if base station 105-a detects and / or receives an uplink PRS, base station 105-a may not be able to determine whether the detected / received uplink PRS is from UE 115-a or from relay 205.

[0149] As described herein, when resolving the above ambiguity, the use of the above referenced Figure 1 For example, if UE 115-a identifies (e.g., knows) that the downlink PRS path is from relay 205 (e.g., a repeater), UE 115-a can accurately calculate the time of arrival from relay 205. That is, the UE can calculate the time of arrival from relay 205 as shown in Equation 1 below:

[0150]

[0151] This arrival time can then be considered as the arrival time from a separate base station 105 (e.g., a gNB) that is synchronized with the base station 105-a (e.g., the donor base station 105). Similarly, if the base station 105-a (e.g., the donor base station) identifies that the uplink PRS path is from a relay 205 (e.g., a repeater), the base station 105-a can find or calculate the arrival time at the relay 205. In some cases, for RTT-based positioning, if both the downlink and uplink transmissions follow the same path (e.g., a direct path or a path via the relay 205), traditional PRS positioning determination techniques can be applied.

[0152] In addition, the base station 105-a and the UE 115-a may use the positioning-related information of the relay node in the almanac 220 (e.g., BSA information about the relay node, positioning assistance data, etc.) to reduce ambiguity when determining the position of the UE 115-a. In some cases, the positioning engine (e.g., which is aware of the positioning-related information in the almanac 220) may combine multiple hypothesis tests and relay positioning metrics (e.g., positioning-related information about the UE 115-a) to reduce ambiguity. In an example, the positioning engine may apply one or more outlier rejection schemes (such as random sample consensus (RANSAC)) and may then accept or reject the hypothesis for identifying whether the PRS was received via the base station 105-a / UE 115-a (e.g., for uplink PRS or downlink PRS, respectively) or via the relay 205. For example, the base station 105-a or the UE 115-a can determine one or more positioning metrics based on separate hypotheses as to whether the PRS is received from the UE 115-a or the base station 105-a, respectively, or from the relay 205, and then determine which positioning metric to relay to the other wireless device based on accepting one of the hypotheses by applying an anomaly rejection scheme. In addition, the positioning engine can combine the accepted or rejected hypotheses in a back calculation to derive the RTT for the PRS transmission(s).

[0153] In some cases, the positioning engine can be located at the UE 115-a (e.g., for UE-based positioning techniques), at the core network (e.g., LMF or eSMLC), at the base station 105-a, or at the relay 205. Additionally or alternatively, for RTT-based positioning techniques, each RTT can be derived from two (2) measurements, each with two (2) hypotheses (e.g., resulting in a total of four (4) hypotheses) in the presence of a bidirectional (e.g., uplink and downlink) relay 205. As described herein, the positioning engine can derive the RTT based on measurements from two (2) of the hypotheses, while discarding measurements from the remaining two (2) hypotheses. For example, when the RTT is derived based on multiple paths (e.g., UE 115-a knows that there is a base station 105 that includes an LOS mode for receiving downlink PRS and that there is a relay 205 associated with base station 105-a that includes an NLOS mode for receiving downlink PRS), the positioning engine may not be able to determine whether the signal is from the base station 105 with LOS or from the relay 205, and therefore may test both sets of hypotheses.

[0154] Furthermore, when determining the location of the UE 115-a, one or more base stations 105 that are susceptible to ambiguity may be avoided from being used as a reference for differential measurements. In some cases, these differential measurements may include time difference of arrival (TDOA), differential RTT, differential angle-based measurements, and the like between the base station 105-a and nearby base stations 105 (e.g., visible base stations 105). When these one or more base stations 105 are used as a reference, ambiguity may enter all differential measurements (e.g., time differences), and the location server 210 may prefer to avoid these base stations 105 that may cause ambiguity in determining the location of the UE 115-a. The base stations 105 to be avoided may be avoided entirely or may be used with the restriction that they are not used as a reference for differential measurements.

[0155] Thus, a wireless device implementing a differential option (e.g., a UE 115-a for downlink PRS, a base station 105-a for uplink PRS, a relay 205, a location server 210, etc.) may be instructed to avoid one or more base stations 105 (e.g., for determining the location of the UE 115-a). For example, if the UE 115-a is a wireless device implementing a differential option, the UE 115-a may calculate observed TDOA (OTDOA) (e.g., for UE-based and UE-assisted techniques). Additionally or alternatively, the wireless device implementing a differential option may be a positioning engine for uplink TDOA (UTDOA), differential RTT measurements, or differential angle-based measurements. Thus, a separate indication may not be required to distinguish between PRS received from a wireless device (e.g., a UE 115-a or a base station 105-a) or from a relay 205 (e.g., the positioning engine already knows the relay in the wireless communication system 200 from the almanac 220). Furthermore, an indication of one or more base stations 105 to avoid may be signaled to the UE 115-a (e.g., from the location server 210, the base station 105-a, etc.) via an LPP connection, RRC signaling, MAC-CE, a DCI message, or a combination thereof. In some cases, the indication of one or more base stations 105 to avoid may be derived explicitly or implicitly based on side information regarding the presence of relays.

[0156] In some implementations, relays in the wireless communication system 200 (e.g., including relay 205) may retransmit and / or amplify signals based on side channel indications (e.g., side information). In some cases, active relays may include additional functionality beyond simply forwarding signals. For example, an active relay may include a TDD amplification-forward configuration (e.g., as a repeater-type relay) that is unaware of the slot format indication (SFI) of any relay transmission. Thus, the TDD amplification-forward configuration may forward all received signals (e.g., whether from the base station 105 in a downlink timeslot or from the UE 115 in an uplink timeslot). Additionally or alternatively, in some cases, the active relay may adjust the amplification level differently for downlink and uplink timeslots based on the destination of the transmitted / amplified signal (e.g., the UE 115 for a downlink timeslot or the donor base station 105 for an uplink timeslot).

[0157] Thus, a base station 105-a (e.g., a donor base station 105) can provide one or more side channel indications to achieve different amplification levels. The side channel indications can include, for example, an SFI, an uplink power control for an uplink backhaul link (e.g., a relay to base station link), a configuration of a control / data channel, or a combination thereof that the relay 205 uses to identify the amplification level to be used. In addition, the side channel indication can indicate that the relay 205 is configured to transmit CSI-RS, synchronization signal blocks (SSBs), SRS, PRS, or a combination thereof at different amplification levels. By utilizing these side channel indications, the relays in the wireless communication system 200 can selectively retransmit signals based on the configuration of certain channels (e.g., for PRS transmission) and reference signals.

[0158] Although the concepts herein have been described in the context of a single relay node intended to extend the coverage of a single cell, the concepts can be readily extended to situations where multiple relays are used for a single cell. For example, multiple relays may lead to further ambiguity as to which relay a signal is received from, and therefore stricter criteria may be used to exclude base stations known to have multiple relays from being used in positioning calculations.

[0159] Figure 3 An example of a process flow 300 for supporting positioning using a relay according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. In some examples, the process flow 300 can implement aspects of the wireless communication systems 100 and / or 200. The process flow 300 can include a base station 105-b, a UE 115-b, a relay 305, and a location server 310, which can be examples of corresponding base stations 105, UE 115, relays, and location servers, respectively, as described above with reference to FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 2As described herein, techniques are outlined for determining the location of a UE 115-b when a relay 305 is used to route different transmissions between a base station 105-b and the UE 115-b.

[0160] In the following description of process flow 300, operations between UE 115-b, base station 105-b, relay 305, and location server 310 may be performed in a different order or at different times. Certain operations may also be omitted from process flow 300, or other operations may be added to process flow 300. Although UE 115-b, base station 105-b, relay 305, and location server 310 are shown as performing several operations of process flow 300, any wireless device may perform the illustrated operations. In some cases, base station 105-b and location server 310 may be co-located.

[0161] In some cases, the relay 305 may receive a TTI format indication (e.g., a TDD configuration) indicating whether the TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI (e.g., a time slot formation indication may indicate whether the time slot is a downlink time slot or an uplink time slot). In addition, the relay 305 may receive a configuration indicating an uplink amplification level for relaying uplink transmissions from the UE 115-b to the base station 105-b and a downlink amplification level for relaying downlink transmissions from the base station 105-b to the UE 115-b. In some cases, the relay 305 may relay uplink transmissions to the base station based on the uplink amplification level, relay downlink transmissions to the UE based on the downlink amplification level, or a combination thereof.

[0162] Furthermore, the relay 305 may process the configuration to determine a reference signal configuration, wherein the transmission is to be relayed according to the reference signal configuration. In some cases, the reference signal configuration may be a CSI-RS configuration, an SSB configuration, an SRS configuration, a PRS configuration, or any combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the relay 305 may process the configuration to determine a subset of channels of a channel set to be relayed, wherein the transmission is to be received within a first channel of the channel subset, or may process the configuration to determine an uplink power control configuration, wherein the transmission is to be sent according to the uplink power control configuration.

[0163] At 315, location server 310 may send positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information, PRS configuration information, etc.) to UE 115-b (via base station 105-b and relay 305) indicating that the first node is operating as a relay for a second node (e.g., relay 305), which is operating as a base station (e.g., base station 105-b). In some examples, the positioning assistance data may include almanac information, PRS configuration information, or both. In some cases, UE 115-b may select a third node to monitor that is not associated with a relay node based on the almanac information. In addition, the positioning assistance data may include a first node type indicating that the first node is a relay node and a second node type indicating that the second node is a base station.

[0164] At 320, UE 115-b may receive (e.g., from base station 105-b via relay 305, from location server 310, etc.) a PRS. In some cases, UE 115-b may determine that the PRS is from one of the first node or the second node based on a PRS-ID or a scrambling code associated with the PRS. In addition, in some cases, UE 115-b may select a third node to monitor that is not associated with the relay node, from which the PRS was received, based on almanac information.

[0165] At 325, UE 115-b may process the positioning assistance data. For example, UE 115-b may process the positioning assistance data to determine one or more of a cell identifier, a UE identifier, a geographic location, or a beam identifier for the first node, the second node, or both. Additionally or alternatively, UE 115-b may process the positioning assistance data to determine one or more of an antenna array configuration, an antenna panel configuration, an orientation, the first node, a beam pattern, a backhaul beam, or an access beam for the first node, the second node, or both. In some cases, UE 115-b may process the positioning assistance data to determine a backhaul gain between the first node and the second node, an access gain between the first node and the UE, or both. Additionally or alternatively, UE 115-b may process the positioning assistance data to indicate whether the first node is an active relay or a passive relay; an orientation, an attenuation, or both, of at least one angle of incidence of the first node; a delay introduced by the first node in relay transmission; or a combination thereof.

[0166] At 330, UE 115-b may generate a positioning metric based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS. In some cases, UE 115-b may determine, based on the positioning assistance data, that the PRS is received from a first node, and generate the positioning metric based on the determination that the PRS is received from the first node. Additionally or alternatively, UE 115-b may determine, based on the positioning assistance data, that the PRS is received from a second node, and generate the positioning metric based on the determination that the PRS is received from the second node. In some cases, the positioning metric may include a detected time of arrival, angle of arrival, or both. Furthermore, UE 115-b may determine the positioning metric based on one or more of a detected time of arrival of the PRS, a propagation time, a relay delay, or any combination thereof.

[0167] In some cases, the positioning metric may be a differential measurement. Furthermore, UE 115-b may receive an indication to avoid using the first and second nodes when generating the differential measurement. Thus, the indication may be an LPP message, an RRC message, a MAC-CE, or a DCI. In some cases, UE 115-b may determine to avoid using the first and second nodes when generating the differential measurement based on receiving side information indicating the presence of relay 305.

[0168] At 335, UE 115-b may determine a first candidate positioning metric based on a first assumption that the PRS is received from the first node; may determine a second candidate positioning metric based on a second assumption that the PRS is received from the second node; and may select one of the first candidate positioning metric and the second candidate positioning metric as the positioning metric based on an anomaly rejection scheme. Additionally or alternatively, UE 115-b may determine a first candidate positioning metric pair based on the first assumption that the PRS is received from the first node; may determine a second candidate positioning metric pair based on a second assumption that the PRS is received from the second node; and may select one of the first candidate positioning metric pair and the second candidate positioning metric pair as the positioning metric based on the anomaly rejection scheme, wherein the positioning metric is an RTT positioning metric.

[0169] At 340 , UE 115 - b may send positioning metrics to base station 105 - b (eg, a second node) or location server 310 .

[0170] At 345, location server 310 may determine the geographic location of UE 115-b based on the positioning metrics. Additionally or alternatively, UE 115-b may also determine its geographic location based on the positioning metrics.

[0171] Although UE 115 - b is shown as determining and generating positioning metrics (e.g., via almanac information, PRS, assumptions, etc.), it should be understood that location server 310 (and / or base station 105 - b ) may determine and generate positioning metrics in a similar manner.

[0172] Figure 4 A block diagram 400 of a device 405 supporting positioning with relaying according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 405 can be an example of aspects of the UE 115 as described herein. The device 405 can include a receiver 410, a UE communication manager 415, and a transmitter 420. The device 405 can also include a processor. Each of these components can communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0173] The receiver 410 may receive information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to positioning using relays, etc.), such as packets, user data, or control information. The information may be delivered to other components of the device 405. The receiver 410 may be a reference Figure 7 Examples of aspects of the transceiver 720 are described. The receiver 410 may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

[0174] The UE communication manager 415 may receive positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) indicating that the first node is operating as a relay for the second node (e.g., operating as a base station). Furthermore, the UE communication manager 415 may receive a PRS. Thus, the UE communication manager 415 may generate positioning metrics based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS. The UE communication manager 415 may be an example of aspects of the UE communication manager 710 described herein.

[0175] In some examples, the UE communication manager 415 as described herein can be implemented to achieve one or more potential advantages for the UE 115. For example, by generating positioning metrics based on positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) and PRS, the UE communication manager 415 can reduce signaling overhead for the UE 115 by determining the UE's position through other techniques (e.g., a positioning process based on sending PRS, measurement reports, etc. back and forth between the UE 115 and the base station 105). Furthermore, the position of the UE 115 can be determined more accurately and efficiently based on the positioning assistance data, which can enable subsequent procedures to be performed more efficiently based on the more precise / accurate location of the UE 115.

[0176] The UE communication manager 415 or its subcomponents may be implemented in hardware, code executed by a processor (e.g., software or firmware), or any combination thereof. If implemented in code executed by a processor, the functions of the UE communication manager 415 or its subcomponents may be performed by a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designated to perform the functions described in the present disclosure.

[0177] The UE communication manager 415 or its subcomponents can be physically located in various locations, including being distributed so that the functionality is implemented by one or more physical components at different physical locations. In some examples, according to various aspects of the present disclosure, the UE communication manager 415 or its subcomponents can be separate and distinct components. In some examples, according to various aspects of the present disclosure, the UE communication manager 415 or its subcomponents can be combined with one or more other hardware components, including but not limited to input / output (I / O) components, transceivers, network servers, another computing device, one or more other components described in the present disclosure, or a combination thereof.

[0178] Transmitter 420 can transmit signals generated by other components of device 405. In some examples, transmitter 420 can be co-located with receiver 410 in a transceiver module. For example, transmitter 420 can be a reference Figure 7 Examples of aspects of the depicted transceiver 720. The transmitter 420 may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

[0179] Figure 5 A block diagram 500 of a device 505 supporting positioning with relaying according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 505 can be an example of aspects of the device 405 or UE 115 as described herein. The device 505 can include a receiver 510, a UE communication manager 515, and a transmitter 535. The device 505 can also include a processor. Each of these components can communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0180] The receiver 510 may receive information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to positioning using relays, etc.), such as packets, user data, or control information. The information may be delivered to other components of the device 505. The receiver 510 may be a reference Figure 7 Examples of aspects of the transceiver 720 are described. The receiver 510 may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

[0181] The UE communication manager 515 may be an example of aspects of the UE communication manager 415 as described herein. The UE communication manager 515 may include a positioning assistance data receiver 520, a PRS receiver 525, and a positioning metric generator 530. The UE communication manager 515 may be an example of aspects of the UE communication manager 710 as described herein.

[0182] The positioning assistance data receiver 520 may receive positioning assistance data (eg, almanac information) indicating that the first node is operating as a relay for the second node (eg, operating as a base station).

[0183] The PRS receiver 525 may receive the PRS.

[0184] The positioning metric generator 530 may generate positioning metrics based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS.

[0185] Based on the technology for receiving positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) indicating the base station 105 and the relay, the processor of the UE 115 (e.g., controlling the receiver 510, the transmitter 535 or the like) Figure 7 The transceiver 720 described above can more efficiently determine whether a PRS is received from a base station 105 or a relay. Prior to using positioning assistance data, the UE 115 may not know which wireless device is sending the PRS and may expend significant computational resources attempting to determine this. Additionally or alternatively, the processor of the UE 115 may use significant signaling overhead to determine which wireless device is sending the PRS (e.g., sending / receiving multiple messages to make this determination), thereby increasing power consumption by the processor at the UE 115. Thus, by using less computational resources and signaling overhead to determine whether a PRS is received from a base station 105 or a relay and to generate positioning metrics based on this determination, power can be saved at the processor of the UE 115.

[0186] The transmitter 535 can transmit signals generated by other components of the device 505. In some examples, the transmitter 535 can be co-located with the receiver 510 in the transceiver module. For example, the transmitter 535 can be a reference Figure 7 Examples of aspects of the depicted transceiver 720. The transmitter 535 may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

[0187] Figure 6 A block diagram 600 of a UE communication manager 605 supporting positioning with relays is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The UE communication manager 605 may be an example of aspects of the UE communication manager 415, the UE communication manager 515, or the UE communication manager 710 described herein. The UE communication manager 605 may include a positioning assistance data receiver 610, a PRS receiver 615, a positioning metric generator 620, a positioning assistance data processor 625, a PRS hypothesis component 630, and a positioning metric transmitter 635. Each of these modules may communicate with each other directly or indirectly (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0188] The positioning assistance data receiver 610 may receive positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) indicating that the first node is operating as a relay for the second node (e.g., operating as a base station). In some cases, the positioning assistance data may include a first node type indicating that the first node is a relay node and a second node type indicating that the second node is a base station.

[0189] The PRS receiver 615 may receive the PRS. In some examples, the PRS receiver 615 may select a third node to monitor that is not associated with the relay node based on the positioning assistance data, wherein the PRS is received from the third node. In addition, the PRS receiver 615 may determine that the PRS is from one of the first node or the second node based on a PRS identifier or a scrambling code associated with the PRS.

[0190] The positioning metric generator 620 may generate a positioning metric based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS. In some cases, the positioning metric may include a detected time of arrival, angle of arrival, or both. In some examples, the positioning metric generator 620 may determine that the PRS is received from a first node based on the positioning assistance data, and generate the positioning metric based on the determination that the PRS is received from the first node. Additionally or alternatively, the positioning metric generator 620 may determine that the PRS is received from a second node based on the positioning assistance data, and generate the positioning metric based on the determination that the PRS is received from the second node. In some examples, the positioning metric generator 620 may determine the positioning metric based on one or more of a detected time of arrival of the PRS, a propagation time, a relay delay, or any combination thereof. In some examples, the positioning metric generator 620 may determine the geographic location of the UE based on the positioning metric.

[0191] In some cases, the positioning metric may be a differential measurement. Thus, the positioning metric generator 620 may receive an indication to avoid using the first and second nodes when generating the differential measurement, and may determine to avoid using the first and second nodes when generating the differential measurement based on receiving side information indicating the presence of a relay. In some cases, the indication may be an LPP message, an RRC message, a MAC-CE, or a DCI.

[0192] The positioning assistance data processor 625 may process the positioning assistance data to determine one or more of a cell identifier, a UE identifier, a geographic location, or a beam identifier for the first node, the second node, or both. In some examples, the positioning assistance data processor 625 may process the positioning assistance data to determine one or more of an antenna array configuration, an antenna panel configuration, an orientation, the first node, a beam pattern, a backhaul beam, or an access beam for the first node, the second node, or both. Additionally or alternatively, the positioning assistance data processor 625 may process the positioning assistance data to determine a backhaul gain between the first node and the second node, an access gain between the first node and the UE, or both. In some examples, the positioning assistance data processor 625 may process the positioning assistance data to determine whether the first node is an active relay or a passive relay. Additionally or alternatively, the positioning assistance data processor 625 may process the positioning assistance data to determine an orientation, an attenuation, or both for at least one angle of incidence of the first node. In some examples, the positioning assistance data processor 625 may process the positioning assistance data to determine a delay introduced by the first node during relay transmission.

[0193] The PRS hypothesis component 630 may determine a first candidate positioning metric based on a first hypothesis that the PRS is received from the first node; may determine a second candidate positioning metric based on a second hypothesis that the PRS is received from the second node; and may select one of the first candidate positioning metric and the second candidate positioning metric as the positioning metric based on an outlier rejection scheme. Additionally or alternatively, the PRS hypothesis component 630 may determine a first candidate positioning metric pair based on the first hypothesis that the PRS is received from the first node; may determine a second candidate positioning metric pair based on the second hypothesis that the PRS is received from the second node; and may select one of the first candidate positioning metric pair and the second candidate positioning metric pair as the positioning metric based on an outlier rejection scheme, wherein the positioning metric is an RTT positioning metric.

[0194] The positioning metric transmitter 635 may transmit the positioning metric to the second node or the location server.

[0195] Figure 7 A diagram of a system 700 including a device 705 supporting positioning with relays according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 705 may be an example of or include components of the device 405, device 505, or UE 115 as described herein. The device 705 may include components for two-way voice and data communications, including components for sending and receiving communications, including a UE communications manager 710, an I / O controller 715, a transceiver 720, an antenna 725, a memory 730, and a processor 740. These components may communicate electronically via one or more buses (e.g., bus 745).

[0196] The UE communication manager 710 may receive positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) indicating that the first node is operating as a relay for the second node (e.g., operating as a base station). Furthermore, the UE communication manager 710 may receive a PRS. Accordingly, the UE communication manager 710 may generate positioning metrics based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS.

[0197] I / O controller 715 can manage input and output signals for device 705. I / O controller 715 can also manage peripheral devices that are not integrated into device 705. In some cases, I / O controller 715 can represent a physical connection or port to an external peripheral device. In some cases, I / O controller 715 can utilize a controller such as 705. In some cases, the I / O controller 715 may represent or interact with a modem, keyboard, mouse, touch screen, or similar device. In some cases, the I / O controller 715 may be implemented as part of a processor. In some cases, a user may interact with the device 705 via the I / O controller 715 or via hardware components controlled by the I / O controller 715.

[0198] The transceiver 720 can communicate bidirectionally via one or more antennas, wired or wireless links as described above. For example, the transceiver 720 can represent a wireless transceiver and can communicate bidirectionally with another wireless transceiver. The transceiver 720 can also include a modem to modulate packets and provide the modulated packets to the antenna for transmission, as well as demodulate packets received from the antenna.

[0199] In some cases, a wireless device may include a single antenna 725. However, in some cases, a device may have more than one antenna 725, which may be capable of sending or receiving multiple wireless transmissions simultaneously.

[0200] The memory 730 may include random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM). The memory 730 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code 735 including instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to perform the various functions described herein. In some cases, the memory 730 may contain, among other things, a basic I / O system (BIOS), which may control basic hardware or software operations, such as interaction with peripheral components or devices.

[0201] The processor 740 may include an intelligent hardware device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, a DSP, a central processing unit (CPU), a microcontroller, an ASIC, an FPGA, a programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic components, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof). In some cases, the processor 740 may be configured to operate a memory array using a memory controller. In other cases, the memory controller may be integrated into the processor 740. The processor 740 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory (e.g., memory 730) to cause the device 705 to perform various functions (e.g., functions or tasks that support positioning using relays).

[0202] The code 735 may include instructions for implementing various aspects of the present disclosure, including instructions for supporting wireless communications. The code 735 may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as system memory or other types of memory. In some cases, the code 735 may not be directly executable by the processor 740, but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform the functions described herein.

[0203] Figure 8 A block diagram 800 of a device 805 supporting positioning with relaying according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 805 can be an example of aspects of a location server as described herein. The device 805 can include an input module 810, a location server communication manager 815, and an output module 820. The device 805 can also include a processor. Each of these components can communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0204] The input module 810 can manage input signals for the device 805. For example, the input module 810 can identify input signals based on interaction with a modem, keyboard, mouse, touch screen, or similar device. These input signals can be associated with user input or processing at other components or devices. In some cases, the input module 810 can utilize a computer program such as a computer program that generates a program or process. The input module 810 may send aspects of these input signals to other components of the device 805 for processing. For example, the input module 810 may send input signals to the location server communication manager 815 to support data retention processing for data object storage. In some cases, the input module 810 may be as described in reference to Figure 11 Components of the I / O controller 1115 are described.

[0205] The location server communication manager 815 may send positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) that indicates that the first node is operating as a relay (e.g., for a base station, a UE, etc.). In some cases, the location server communication manager 815 may receive positioning metrics generated based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS. Thus, the location server communication manager 815 may determine the geographic location of the UE based on the positioning metrics. The location server communication manager 815 may be an example of aspects of the location server communication manager 1110 described herein.

[0206] The location server communication manager 815 or its subcomponents may be implemented in hardware, in code executed by a processor (e.g., software or firmware), or any combination thereof. If implemented in code executed by a processor, the functionality of the location server communication manager 815 or its subcomponents may be performed by a general-purpose processor, a DSP, an ASIC, an FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functionality described in this disclosure.

[0207] The location server communication manager 815 or its subcomponents can be physically located in various locations, including being distributed such that portions of the functionality are implemented by one or more physical components at different physical locations. In some examples, the location server communication manager 815 or its subcomponents can be separate and distinct components in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, the location server communication manager 815 or its subcomponents can be combined with one or more other hardware components, including but not limited to I / O components, a transceiver, a network server, another computing device, one or more other components described in the present disclosure, or a combination thereof in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0208] The output module 820 can manage output signals of the device 805. For example, the output module 820 can receive signals from other components of the device 805 (such as the location server communication manager 815) and can send these signals to other components or devices. In some specific examples, the output module 820 can send the output signals for display in a user interface, for storage in a database or data storage, for further processing at a server or server cluster, or for any other processing at any number of devices or systems. In some cases, the output module 820 can be as described in reference to Figure 11 Components of the I / O controller 1115 are described.

[0209] Figure 9A block diagram 900 of a device 905 supporting positioning using relays according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 905 can be an example of aspects of the device 805 or location server as described herein. The device 905 can include an input module 910, a location server communication manager 915, and an output module 935. The device 905 can also include a processor. Each of these components can communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses). In some cases, the device 905 can be an example of a user terminal, a database server, or a system comprising multiple computing devices.

[0210] The input module 910 can manage input signals for the device 905. For example, the input module 910 can identify input signals based on interaction with a modem, keyboard, mouse, touch screen, or similar device. These input signals can be associated with user input or processing at other components or devices. In some cases, the input module 910 can utilize a computer program such as a computer program that generates a program or process. The input module 910 may send aspects of these input signals to other components of the device 905 for processing. For example, the input module 910 may send input signals to the location server communication manager 915 to support data retention processing for data object storage. In some cases, the input module 910 may be as described in reference to Figure 11 Components of the I / O controller 1115 are described.

[0211] The location server communication manager 915 may be an example of aspects of the location server communication manager 815 described herein. The location server communication manager 915 may include a positioning assistance data transmitter 920, a positioning metric component 925, and a UE position determination component 930. The location server communication manager 915 may be a reference Figure 10 and Figure 11 Examples of aspects of the location server communication manager 1005 or 1110 are described.

[0212] At least some of the location server communication manager 915 and / or its various subcomponents can be implemented in hardware, software executed by a processor, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software executed by a processor, the functionality of at least some of the location server communication manager 915 and / or its various subcomponents can be performed by a general-purpose processor, a DSP, an ASIC, an FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functionality described herein. The location server communication manager 915 and / or its various subcomponents can be physically located in various locations, including being distributed such that portions of the functionality are performed by one or more physical devices at different physical locations. In some examples, according to various aspects of the present disclosure, at least some of the location server communication manager 915 and / or its various subcomponents can be separate and distinct components. In other examples, at least some of the location server communication manager 915 and / or its various subcomponents can be combined with one or more other hardware components, including, but not limited to, I / O components, a transceiver, a network server, another computing device, one or more other components described herein, or a combination thereof according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0213] The positioning assistance data transmitter 920 may transmit positioning assistance data (eg, almanac information) indicating that the first node is operating as a relay (eg, for a base station, a UE, etc.).

[0214] Positioning metric component 925 can receive positioning metrics generated based on positioning assistance data and the PRS.

[0215] UE position determining component 930 can determine the geographic location of the UE based on the positioning metrics.

[0216] The output module 935 can manage output signals of the device 905. For example, the output module 935 can receive signals from other components of the device 905 (such as the location server communication manager 915) and can send these signals to other components or devices. In some specific examples, the output module 935 can send the output signals for display in a user interface, for storage in a database or data storage, for further processing at a server or server cluster, or for any other processing at any number of devices or systems. In some cases, the output module 935 can be as described in reference to Figure 11 Components of the I / O controller 1115 are described.

[0217] Figure 10A block diagram 1000 of a location server communication manager 1005 supporting positioning with relaying is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The location server communication manager 1005 can be an example of aspects of the location server communication manager 815, the location server communication manager 915, or the location server communication manager 1110 described herein. The location server communication manager 1005 can include a positioning assistance data transmitter 1010, a positioning metric component 1015, a UE position determination component 1020, a PRS component 1025, and a positioning metric hypothesis component 1030. Each of these modules can communicate with each other directly or indirectly (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0218] The positioning assistance data transmitter 1010 can send positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information) that indicates that the first node is operating as a relay (e.g., for a base station, a UE, etc.). In some cases, the positioning assistance data can indicate one or more of a cell identifier, a UE identifier, a geographic location, or a beam identifier of the first node, the second node, or both; one or more of an antenna array configuration, an antenna panel configuration, an orientation, or a beam pattern of the first node, the second node, or both; a backhaul gain between the first node and the second node, an access gain between the first node and the UE, or both; or a combination thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the positioning assistance data can indicate whether the first node is an active relay or a passive relay, an orientation of at least one incident angle of the first node, an attenuation, or both, a delay introduced by the first node when relaying transmission, or a combination thereof. In some aspects, the location server can be co-located with the base station.

[0219] The positioning metric component 1015 may receive a positioning metric generated based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS. In some cases, the positioning metric may include a detected time of arrival, angle of arrival, or both. In some examples, the positioning metric component 1015 may determine, based on the positioning assistance data, that the PRS is received from a first node, and generate the positioning metric based on the determination that the PRS is received from the first node. Additionally or alternatively, the positioning metric component 1015 may determine, based on the positioning assistance data, that the PRS is received from a base station, and generate the positioning metric based on the determination that the PRS is received from a second node. In some cases, the positioning metric may be a differential measurement. Thus, the positioning metric component 1015 may send an indication to avoid using a reference signal transmitted by the first node or the base station when generating the differential measurement. In some cases, the indication may be an LPP message, an RRC message, a MAC-CE, or a DCI.

[0220] UE position determining component 1020 can determine the geographic location of the UE based on positioning metrics.

[0221] The PRS component 1025 can generate a PRS based on the PRS identifier and can transmit the PRS. Additionally or alternatively, the PRS component 1025 can generate a PRS based on scrambling the PRS using a scrambling code and can transmit the generated PRS.

[0222] Positioning metric hypothesis component 1030 may determine a first candidate positioning metric based on a first hypothesis that the PRS is received from the first node; may determine a second candidate positioning metric based on a second hypothesis that the PRS is received from the base station; and may select one of the first candidate positioning metric and the second candidate positioning metric as the positioning metric based on an outlier elimination scheme. Additionally or alternatively, positioning metric hypothesis component 1030 may determine a first candidate positioning metric pair based on the first hypothesis that the PRS is received from the first node; may determine a second candidate positioning metric pair based on the second hypothesis that the PRS is received from the base station; and may select one of the first candidate positioning metric pair and the second candidate positioning metric pair as the positioning metric based on an outlier elimination scheme, wherein the positioning metric is an RTT positioning metric.

[0223] Figure 11 A diagram of a system 1100 including a device 1105 that supports positioning with relays, according to aspects of the present disclosure, is shown. Device 1105 can be an example of or include components of a location server and device 805, device 905, or a location server as described herein. Device 1105 can include components for two-way data communication, including components for sending and receiving communications, including a location server communication manager 1110, an I / O controller 1115, a database controller 1120, a memory 1125, a processor 1130, and a database 1135. These components can communicate electronically via one or more buses (e.g., bus 1140).

[0224] The location server communication manager 1110 may be an example of the location server communication manager 915 or 1005 as described herein. For example, the location server communication manager 1110 may perform the operations described above with reference to Figure 9 and Figure 10 In some cases, the location server communication manager 1110 may be implemented in hardware, software executed by a processor, firmware, or any combination thereof.

[0225] I / O controller 1115 can manage input signals 1145 and output signals 1150 for device 1105. I / O controller 1115 can also manage peripheral devices that are not integrated into device 1105. In some cases, I / O controller 1115 can represent a physical connection or port to an external peripheral device. In some cases, I / O controller 1115 can utilize a controller such as 1105. In some cases, the I / O controller 1115 may represent or interact with a modem, keyboard, mouse, touch screen, or similar device. In some cases, the I / O controller 1115 may be implemented as part of a processor. In some cases, a user may interact with the device 1105 via the I / O controller 1115 or via hardware components controlled by the I / O controller 1115.

[0226] Database controller 1120 can manage data storage and processing in database 1135. In some cases, a user can interact with database controller 1120. In other cases, database controller 1120 can operate automatically without user interaction. Database 1135 can be an example of a single database, a distributed database, multiple distributed databases, a data store, a data lake, or an emergency backup database.

[0227] Memory 1125 may include RAM and ROM. Memory 1125 may store computer-readable, computer-executable software including instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to perform the various functions described herein. In some cases, memory 1125 may contain, among other things, a BIOS that may control basic hardware or software operations, such as interaction with peripheral components or devices.

[0228] The processor 1130 may include an intelligent hardware device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, a DSP, a CPU, a microcontroller, an ASIC, an FPGA, a programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic components, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof). In some cases, the processor 1130 may be configured to operate a memory array using a memory controller. In other cases, the memory controller may be integrated into the processor 1130. The processor 1130 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory 1125 to perform various functions (e.g., functions or tasks that support positioning using relays).

[0229] Figure 12A block diagram 1200 is shown of a device 1205 supporting positioning with relays according to aspects of the present disclosure. The device 1205 can be an example of aspects of the base station 105 as described herein. The device 1205 can include a receiver 1210, a base station communication manager 1215, and a transmitter 1220. The device 1205 can also include a processor. Each of these components can communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0230] The receiver 1210 may receive information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to positioning using relays, etc.), such as packets, user data, or control information. The information may be delivered to other components of the device 1205. The receiver 1210 may be a device such as a reference device. Figure 15 Examples of aspects of the transceiver 1520 are described. The receiver 1210 may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

[0231] The base station communication manager 1215 may receive positioning metrics generated from the UE based on the PRS and positioning assistance data (e.g., almanac information), the positioning assistance data indicating that the first node is operating as a relay for the base station. Furthermore, the base station communication manager 1215 may send the positioning metrics to a location server. The base station communication manager 1215 may be an example of aspects of the base station communication manager 1510 described herein.

[0232] The base station communication manager 1215 or its subcomponents may be implemented in hardware, code executed by a processor (e.g., software or firmware), or any combination thereof. If implemented in code executed by a processor, the functions of the base station communication manager 1215 or its subcomponents may be performed by a general-purpose processor, a DSP, an ASIC, an FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described in this disclosure.

[0233] The base station communications manager 1215 or its subcomponents can be physically located in various locations, including being distributed such that portions of the functionality are implemented by one or more physical components at different physical locations. In some examples, the base station communications manager 1215 or its subcomponents can be separate and distinct components according to various aspects of the present disclosure. In some examples, the base station communications manager 1215 or its subcomponents can be combined with one or more other hardware components, including but not limited to I / O components, a transceiver, a network server, another computing device, one or more other components described in the present disclosure, or a combination thereof according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0234] The transmitter 1220 can transmit signals generated by other components of the device 1205. In some examples, the transmitter 1220 can be co-located with the receiver 1210 in the transceiver module. For example, the transmitter 1220 can be as described in reference Figure 15 Examples of aspects of the transceiver 1520 are described. The transmitter 1220 may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

[0235] Figure 13 A block diagram 1300 of a device 1305 supporting positioning with relays according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 1305 can be an example of aspects of the device 1205 or base station 105 as described herein. The device 1305 can include a receiver 1310, a base station communication manager 1315, and a transmitter 1330. The device 1305 can also include a processor. Each of these components can communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0236] The receiver 1310 may receive information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to positioning using relays, etc.), such as packets, user data, or control information. The information may be passed to other components of the device 1305. The receiver 1310 may be a device such as a reference device. Figure 15 Examples of aspects of the transceiver 1520 are described. The receiver 1310 may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

[0237] Base station communications manager 1315 may be an example of aspects of base station communications manager 1215 as described herein. Base station communications manager 1315 may include positioning metric receiver 1320 and positioning metric relay component 1325. Base station communications manager 1315 may be an example of aspects of base station communications manager 1510 as described herein.

[0238] The positioning metric receiver 1320 may receive, from the UE, a positioning metric generated based on the PRS and positioning assistance data (eg, almanac information), the positioning assistance data indicating that the first node operates as a relay for the base station.

[0239] Positioning metric relay component 1325 can send positioning metrics to a location server.

[0240] The transmitter 1330 can transmit signals generated by other components of the device 1305. In some examples, the transmitter 1330 can be co-located with the receiver 1310 in the transceiver module. For example, the transmitter 1330 can be as described in reference Figure 15 Examples of aspects of the transceiver 1520 are described. The transmitter 1330 may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

[0241] Figure 14A block diagram 1400 of a base station communication manager 1405 supporting positioning with relaying is shown in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure. The base station communication manager 1405 can be an example of aspects of the base station communication manager 1215, the base station communication manager 1315, or the base station communication manager 1510 described herein. The base station communication manager 1405 can include a positioning metric receiver 1410, a positioning metric relay component 1415, a PRS avoidance component 1420, and a PRS transmitter 1425. Each of these modules can communicate with each other directly or indirectly (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0242] The positioning metric receiver 1410 may receive positioning metrics generated based on the PRS and positioning assistance data (eg, almanac information) from the UE, the positioning assistance data indicating that the first node operates as a relay for the base station. In some cases, the base station may be co-located with the location server.

[0243] Positioning metric relay component 1415 can send positioning metrics to a location server.

[0244] The PRS avoiding component 1420 can send an indication to avoid using the second PRS sent by the first node or base station when generating positioning metrics including differential measurements. In some cases, the indication can be an LPP message, an RRC message, a MAC-CE, or a DCI.

[0245] The PRS transmitter 1425 may transmit the PRS.

[0246] Figure 15 A diagram of a system 1500 including a device 1505 that supports positioning with relays according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. Device 1505 can be an example of or include components of device 1205, device 1305, or base station 105 as described herein. Device 1505 can include components for two-way voice and data communications, including components for sending and receiving communications, including a base station communication manager 1510, a network communication manager 1515, a transceiver 1520, an antenna 1525, a memory 1530, a processor 1540, and an inter-station communication manager 1545. These components can communicate electronically via one or more buses (e.g., bus 1550).

[0247] The base station communication manager 1510 may receive positioning metrics generated based on the PRS and positioning assistance data (eg, almanac information) from the UE, the positioning assistance data indicating that the first node operates as a relay for the base station. In addition, the base station communication manager 1510 may send the positioning metrics to a location server.

[0248] The network communications manager 1515 may manage communications with the core network (eg, via one or more wired backhaul links). For example, the network communications manager 1515 may manage the delivery of data communications for client devices, such as one or more UEs 115.

[0249] The transceiver 1520 can communicate bidirectionally via one or more antennas, wired or wireless links as described above. For example, the transceiver 1520 can represent a wireless transceiver and can communicate bidirectionally with another wireless transceiver. The transceiver 1520 can also include a modem to modulate packets and provide the modulated packets to the antenna for transmission, as well as demodulate packets received from the antenna.

[0250] In some cases, a wireless device may include a single antenna 1525. However, in some cases, a device may have more than one antenna 1525, which may be capable of sending or receiving multiple wireless transmissions simultaneously.

[0251] Memory 1530 may include RAM, ROM, or a combination thereof. Memory 1530 may store computer-readable code 1535 including instructions that, when executed by a processor (e.g., processor 1540), cause the device to perform the various functions described herein. In some cases, memory 1530 may contain, among other things, a BIOS that may control basic hardware or software operations, such as interaction with peripheral components or devices.

[0252] Processor 1540 may include an intelligent hardware device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, a DSP, a CPU, a microcontroller, an ASIC, an FPGA, a programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic components, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof). In some cases, processor 1540 may be configured to operate a memory array using a memory controller. In some cases, the memory controller may be integrated into processor 1540. Processor 1540 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory (e.g., memory 1530) to cause device 1505 to perform various functions (e.g., functions or tasks that support positioning using relays).

[0253] The inter-site communication manager 1545 can manage communications with other base stations 105 and can include a controller or scheduler for coordinating with other base stations 105 to control communications with the UE 115. For example, the inter-site communication manager 1545 can coordinate the scheduling of transmissions to the UE 115 for various interference mitigation techniques such as beamforming or joint transmission. In some examples, the inter-site communication manager 1545 can provide an X2 interface within an LTE / LTE-A wireless communication network technology to provide communications between base stations 105.

[0254] The code 1535 may include instructions for implementing various aspects of the present disclosure, including instructions for supporting wireless communications. The code 1535 may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as system memory or other types of memory. In some cases, the code 1535 may not be directly executable by the processor 1540, but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform the functions described herein.

[0255] Figure 16 A block diagram 1600 of a device 1605 supporting positioning using relays according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 1605 can be an example of aspects of a relay or relay node as described herein. The device 1605 can include a receiver 1610, a relay node communication manager 1615, and a transmitter 1620. The device 1605 can also include a processor. Each of these components can communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0256] The receiver 1610 may receive information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to positioning using relays, etc.), such as packets, user data, or control information. The information may be delivered to other components of the device 1605. The receiver 1610 may be a device such as a reference device. Figure 19 Examples of aspects of the transceiver 1920 are described. The receiver 1610 may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

[0257] The relay node communication manager 1615 may receive a TTI format indication indicating whether the TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI. Furthermore, the relay node communication manager 1615 may receive a transmission for relaying within a TTI. Furthermore, the relay node communication manager 1615 may relay the transmission during the TTI according to the TTI format indication. The relay node communication manager 1615 may be an example of aspects of the relay node communication manager 1910 described herein.

[0258] The relay node communication manager 1615 or its subcomponents may be implemented in hardware, code executed by a processor (e.g., software or firmware), or any combination thereof. If implemented in code executed by a processor, the functions of the relay node communication manager 1615 or its subcomponents may be performed by a general-purpose processor, a DSP, an ASIC, an FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described in this disclosure.

[0259] The relay node communication manager 1615 or its subcomponents can be physically located in various locations, including being distributed so that portions of the functionality are implemented by one or more physical components at different physical locations. In some examples, according to various aspects of the present disclosure, the relay node communication manager 1615 or its subcomponents can be separate and distinct components. In some examples, the relay node communication manager 1615 or its subcomponents can be combined with one or more other hardware components, including but not limited to I / O components, a transceiver, a network server, another computing device, one or more other components described in the present disclosure, or a combination thereof according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

[0260] The transmitter 1620 can transmit signals generated by other components of the device 1605. In some examples, the transmitter 1620 can be co-located with the receiver 1610 in the transceiver module. For example, the transmitter 1620 can be as described in reference Figure 19 Examples of aspects of the transceiver 1920 are described. The transmitter 1620 may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

[0261] Figure 17 A block diagram 1700 of a device 1705 supporting positioning using relays according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The device 1705 can be an example of aspects of the device 1605 or relay node as described herein. The device 1705 can include a receiver 1710, a relay node communication manager 1715, and a transmitter 1735. The device 1705 can also include a processor. Each of these components can communicate with each other (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0262] The receiver 1710 may receive information associated with various information channels (e.g., control channels, data channels, and information related to positioning using relays, etc.), such as packets, user data, or control information. The information may be delivered to other components of the device 1705. The receiver 1710 may be a reference Figure 19 Examples of aspects of the transceiver 1920 are described. The receiver 1710 may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

[0263] The relay node communication manager 1715 can be an example of aspects of the relay node communication manager 1615 as described herein. The relay node communication manager 1715 can include a TTT format component 1720, a transport relay component 1725, and a TTI format relay component 1730. The relay node communication manager 1715 can be an example of aspects of the relay node communication manager 1910 as described herein.

[0264] The TTT format component 1720 can receive a TTI format indication indicating whether the TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI.

[0265] Transmission relay component 1725 can receive a transmission for relaying within a TTI.

[0266] TTI format relay component 1730 can relay transmissions during a TTI according to a TTT format indication.

[0267] The transmitter 1735 can transmit signals generated by other components of the device 1705. In some examples, the transmitter 1735 can be co-located with the receiver 1710 in the transceiver module. For example, the transmitter 1735 can be a reference Figure 19 Examples of aspects of the transceiver 1920 are described. The transmitter 1735 may utilize a single antenna or a set of antennas.

[0268] Figure 18 A block diagram 1800 of a relay node communication manager 1805 supporting positioning with relays in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The relay node communication manager 1805 can be an example of aspects of the relay node communication manager 1615, the relay node communication manager 1715, or the relay node communication manager 1910 described herein. The relay node communication manager 1805 can include a TTT format component 1810, a transport relay component 1815, a TTI format relay component 1820, and an amplification configuration component 1825. Each of these modules can communicate with each other directly or indirectly (e.g., via one or more buses).

[0269] The TTT format component 1810 can receive a TTI format indication indicating whether the TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI.

[0270] Transmission relay component 1815 can receive a transmission for relaying within a TTI.

[0271] TTI format relay component 1820 can relay transmissions during a TTI according to a TTT format indication.

[0272] Amplification configuration component 1825 can receive a configuration indicating an uplink amplification level for relaying uplink transmissions from the UE to the base station and a downlink amplification level for relaying downlink transmissions from the base station to the UE, wherein the transmissions are relayed according to the configuration. In some examples, amplification configuration component 1825 can relay uplink transmissions to the base station according to the uplink amplification level. Additionally or alternatively, amplification configuration component 1825 can relay downlink transmissions to the UE according to the downlink amplification level.

[0273] In some examples, amplification configuration component 1825 can process a configuration to determine a reference signal configuration, wherein the transmission is relayed according to the reference signal configuration. Additionally or alternatively, amplification configuration component 1825 can process a configuration to determine a subset of channels of a channel set to be relayed, wherein the transmission is received within a first channel of the channel subset. In some examples, amplification configuration component 1825 can process a configuration to determine an uplink power control configuration, wherein the transmission is sent according to the uplink power control configuration. In some cases, the reference signal configuration can be a CSI-RS configuration, an SSB configuration, an SRS configuration, a PRS configuration, or any combination thereof.

[0274] Figure 19 A diagram of a system 1900 including a device 1905 that supports positioning using relays according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. Device 1905 can be an example of or include components of device 1605, device 1705, or a relay node as described herein. Device 1905 may include components for two-way voice and data communications, including components for sending and receiving communications, including a relay node communication manager 1910, an I / O controller 1915, a transceiver 1920, an antenna 1925, a memory 1930, and a processor 1940. These components can communicate electronically via one or more buses (e.g., bus 1945).

[0275] The relay node communication manager 1910 may receive a TTI format indication indicating whether the TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI. In addition, the relay node communication manager 1910 may receive a transmission for relaying within the TTI. In addition, the relay node communication manager 1910 may relay the transmission during the TTI according to the TTI format indication.

[0276] I / O controller 1915 can manage input and output signals for device 1905. I / O controller 1915 can also manage peripheral devices that are not integrated into device 1905. In some cases, I / O controller 1915 can represent a physical connection or port to an external peripheral device. In some cases, I / O controller 1915 can utilize a variety of interfaces such as 1905. In some cases, the I / O controller 1915 may represent or interact with a modem, keyboard, mouse, touch screen, or similar device. In some cases, the I / O controller 1915 may be implemented as part of the processor. In some cases, a user may interact with the device 1905 via the I / O controller 1915 or via hardware components controlled by the I / O controller 1915.

[0277] The transceiver 1920 can communicate bidirectionally via one or more antennas, wired or wireless links as described above. For example, the transceiver 1920 can represent a wireless transceiver and can communicate bidirectionally with another wireless transceiver. The transceiver 1920 can also include a modem to modulate packets and provide the modulated packets to the antenna for transmission, as well as demodulate packets received from the antenna.

[0278] In some cases, a wireless device may include a single antenna 1925. However, in some cases, a device may have more than one antenna 1925, which may be capable of sending or receiving multiple wireless transmissions simultaneously.

[0279] Memory 1930 may include RAM and ROM. Memory 1930 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code 1935 including instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to perform the various functions described herein. In some cases, memory 1930 may contain, among other things, a BIOS that may control basic hardware or software operations, such as interaction with peripheral components or devices.

[0280] The processor 1940 may include an intelligent hardware device (e.g., a general-purpose processor, a DSP, a CPU, a microcontroller, an ASIC, an FPGA, a programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic components, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof). In some cases, the processor 1940 may be configured to operate a memory array using a memory controller. In other cases, the memory controller may be integrated into the processor 1940. The processor 1940 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory (e.g., memory 1930) to cause the device 1905 to perform various functions (e.g., functions or tasks that support positioning using relays).

[0281] The code 1935 may include instructions for implementing various aspects of the present disclosure, including instructions for supporting wireless communications. The code 1935 may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as system memory or other types of memory. In some cases, the code 1935 may not be directly executable by the processor 1940, but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform the functions described herein.

[0282] Figure 20 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method 2000 for supporting positioning using relays according to aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 2000 may be implemented by a UE 115 or a component thereof as described herein. For example, the method 2000 may be implemented by a UE 115 or a component thereof as described herein. Figures 4 to 7The described UE communication manager performs the operations of method 2000. In some examples, the UE may execute an instruction set to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described below.

[0283] At 2005, the UE may receive positioning assistance data indicating that the first node is operating as a relay for the second node (eg, operating as a base station). The operations of 2005 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the UE may receive positioning assistance data as described in reference to FIG. Figures 4 to 7 Aspects of the operations performed by the positioning assistance data receiver 2005 are described.

[0284] At 2010, the UE may receive a PRS. The operations of 2010 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the PRS may be received by a UE as described in reference to Figures 4 to 7 Aspects of the operation of the PRS receiver 2010 are described.

[0285] At 2015, the UE may generate positioning metrics based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS. The operations of 2015 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the UE may generate positioning metrics based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS. Figures 4 to 7 Aspects of the operation of the positioning metric generator execution 2015 are described.

[0286] Figure 21 2 shows a flow chart of a method 2100 for supporting positioning using relays according to aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 2100 may be implemented by a UE 115 or a component thereof as described herein. For example, the method 2100 may be implemented by a UE 115 or a component thereof as described herein. Figures 4 to 7 The UE communication manager described herein performs the operations of method 2100. In some examples, the UE may execute an instruction set to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described below.

[0287] At 2105, the UE may receive positioning assistance data indicating that the first node is operating as a relay for the second node (eg, operating as a base station). The operations of 2105 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the UE may receive positioning assistance data as described in reference to FIG. Figures 4 to 7 Aspects of the operations performed by the positioning assistance data receiver 2105 are described.

[0288] At 2110, the UE may receive the PRS. The operations of 2110 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the PRS may be received by the UE as described in the referenced example. Figures 4 to 7 Aspects of the operations of the PRS receiver 2110 are described.

[0289] At 2115, the UE may determine that the PRS is received from the first node based on the positioning assistance data. The operation of 2115 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the PRS may be received from the first node as described in reference to FIG. Figures 4 to 7 Aspects of the operations performed by the positioning metric generator 2115 are described.

[0290] At 2120, the UE may generate positioning metrics based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS. The operations of 2120 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the UE may generate positioning metrics based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS. Figures 4 to 7 Aspects of the operations performed by the positioning metric generator 2120 are described.

[0291] At 2125, the UE may generate a positioning metric based on determining that the PRS is received from the first node. The operation of 2125 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the UE may generate a positioning metric based on determining that the PRS is received from the first node. Figures 4 to 7 Aspects of the operations performed by the positioning metric generator 2125 are described.

[0292] Figure 22 2200 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 2200 may be implemented by the UE 115 or its components as described herein. For example, the method 2200 may be implemented by the UE 115 or its components as described herein. Figures 4 to 7 The UE communication manager described herein performs the operations of method 2200. In some examples, the UE may execute an instruction set to control the functional elements of the UE to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the UE may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described below.

[0293] At 2205, the UE may receive positioning assistance data indicating that the first node is operating as a relay for the second node (eg, operating as a base station). The operations of 2205 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the UE may receive positioning assistance data as described in reference to FIG. Figures 4 to 7 Aspects of the operations of the positioning assistance data receiver performing 2205 are described.

[0294] At 2210, the UE may receive the PRS. The operations of 2210 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the PRS may be received by the UE as described in the referenced example. Figures 4 to 7 Aspects of the operations of the PRS receiver 2210 are described.

[0295] At 2215, the UE may determine that the PRS is received from the second node based on the positioning assistance data. The operation of 2215 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the PRS may be received from the second node as described in reference to FIG. Figures 4 to 7 Aspects of the operations performed by the positioning metric generator 2215 are described.

[0296] At 2220, the UE may generate positioning metrics based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS. The operations of 2220 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the UE may generate positioning metrics based on the positioning assistance data and the PRS. Figures 4 to 7 Aspects of the operations performed by the positioning metric generator 2220 are described.

[0297] At 2225, the UE may generate a positioning metric based on determining that the PRS is received from the second node. The operation of 2225 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the UE may generate a positioning metric based on determining that the PRS is received from the second node. Figures 4 to 7 Aspects of the operations performed by the positioning metric generator 2225 are described.

[0298] Figure 23 2300 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 2300 may be implemented by a relay node or its components as described herein. For example, the method 2300 may be implemented by a relay node or its components as described herein. Figures 16 to 19 The relay node communication manager described herein performs the operations of method 2300. In some examples, the relay node may execute an instruction set to control functional elements of the relay node to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the relay node may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described below.

[0299] At 2305, the relay node may receive a TTI format indication indicating whether the TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI. The operations of 2305 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the TTI format indication may be received by the relay node as described in reference to Figures 16 to 19 Aspects of the operations performed by the TTI format component 2305 are described.

[0300] At 2310, the relay node may receive a transmission for relaying within a TTI. The operations of 2310 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the relay node may receive a transmission for relaying within a TTI. Figures 16 to 19 Aspects of the operations performed by the transport relay component 2310 are described.

[0301] At 2315, the relay node may relay the transmission during the TTI according to the TTI format indication. The operation of 2315 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the relay node may be configured as shown in FIG. Figures 16 to 19 Aspects of the operations performed by the TTI format relay component 2315 are described.

[0302] Figure 24 2400 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. The operations of the method 2400 may be implemented by a relay node or its components as described herein. For example, the method 2400 may be implemented by a relay node or its components as described herein. Figures 16 to 19The relay node communication manager described herein performs the operations of method 2400. In some examples, the relay node may execute an instruction set to control functional elements of the relay node to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the relay node may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described below.

[0303] At 2405, the relay node may receive a TTI format indication indicating whether the TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI. The operations of 2405 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the TTI format indication may be received by the relay node as described in reference to Figures 16 to 19 Aspects of the operations performed by the TTI format component 2405 are described.

[0304] At 2410, the relay node may receive a configuration indicating an uplink amplification level for relaying uplink transmissions from a UE to a base station and a downlink amplification level for relaying downlink transmissions from the base station to the UE, wherein the transmissions are relayed according to the configuration. The operations of 2410 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the relay node may be configured as described in reference to Figures 16 to 19 Aspects of the operations performed by the zoom configuration component 2410 are described.

[0305] At 2415, the relay node may receive a transmission for relaying within the TTI. The operations of 2415 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the relay node may receive a transmission for relaying within the TTI. Figures 16 to 19 Aspects of the operations performed by the transport relay component 2415 are described.

[0306] At 2420, the relay node may relay the transmission during the TTI according to the TTI format indication. The operations of 2420 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the relay node may be configured as shown in FIG. Figures 16 to 19 Aspects of the operations performed by the TTI format relay component 2420 are described.

[0307] Figure 25 25. A flowchart of a method 2500 for supporting positioning using relays according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The operations of the method 2500 may be implemented by a location server or a component thereof as described herein. For example, the method 2500 may be implemented by a location server as described herein. Figures 8 to 11 The described location server communication manager performs the operations of method 2500. In some examples, the location server can execute instruction sets to control functional elements of the location server to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the location server can use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described below.

[0308] At 2505, the location server may send positioning assistance data that instructs the first node to operate as a relay (e.g., for a base station, UE, etc.). The operations of 2505 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the first node may be configured as described in reference to FIG. Figures 8 to 11 Aspects of the operations of the positioning assistance data transmitter performing 2505 are described.

[0309] At 2510, the location server may receive positioning metrics generated based on positioning assistance data and PRS. The operations of 2510 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the location server may receive positioning metrics generated based on positioning assistance data and PRS. Figures 8 to 11 Aspects of the operations performed by the positioning metric component 2510 are described.

[0310] At 2515, the location server may determine the geographic location of the UE based on the positioning metrics. The operations of 2515 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the UE may be located by a user as described in reference to Figures 8 to 11 Aspects of the operations performed by the UE location determination component 2515 are described.

[0311] Figure 26 26. A flow chart of a method 2600 for supporting positioning using relays according to aspects of the present disclosure is shown. The operations of the method 2600 may be implemented by a base station 105 or components thereof as described herein. For example, the method 2600 may be implemented by a base station 105 or components thereof as described herein. Figures 12 to 15 The base station communication manager described herein performs the operations of method 2600. In some examples, the base station may execute an instruction set to control functional elements of the base station to perform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively, the base station may use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the functions described below.

[0312] At 2605, the base station may receive positioning metrics generated based on the PRS and positioning assistance data from the UE, the positioning assistance data indicating that the first node is operating as a relay for the base station. The operations of 2605 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the method may be performed by a user as described in reference to Figures 12 to 15 Aspects of the operations performed by the positioning metric receiver 2605 are described.

[0313] At 2610, the base station may send positioning metrics to a location server. The operations of 2610 may be performed according to the methods described herein. In some examples, the base station may send positioning metrics to a location server as described in the referenced example. Figures 12 to 15 Aspects of the operations performed by the positioning metric relay component 2610 are described.

[0314] It should be noted that the methods described herein describe possible implementations, and that the operations and steps may be rearranged or otherwise modified, and that other implementations are possible. Furthermore, aspects from two or more of the methods may be combined.

[0315] The techniques described herein can be used in various wireless communication systems, such as code division multiple access (CDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division multiple access (FDMA), orthogonal frequency division multiple access (OFDMA), single carrier frequency division multiple access (SC-FDMA), and other systems. A CDMA system can implement radio technologies such as CDMA2000, Universal Terrestrial Radio Access (UTRA), and the like. CDMA2000 covers IS-2000, IS-95, and IS-856 standards. IS-2000 versions may be commonly referred to as CDMA2000 1X, 1X, and the like. IS-856 (TIA-856) is commonly referred to as CDMA2000 1xEV-DO, High Rate Packet Data (HRPD), and the like. UTRA includes Wideband CDMA (WCDMA) and other variants of CDMA. A TDMA system can implement radio technologies such as Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM).

[0316] OFDMA systems can implement radio technologies such as Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), Evolved UTRA (E-UTRA), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), IEEE 802.20, Flash-OFDM, etc. UTRA and E-UTRA are part of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS). LTE, LTE-A, and LTE-A Pro are versions of UMTS that use E-UTRA. UTRA, E-UTRA, UMTS, LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro, NR, and GSM are described in documents from an organization called the "3rd Generation Partnership Project" (3GPP). CDMA2000 and UMB are described in documents from an organization called the "3rd Generation Partnership Project 2" (3GPP2). The techniques described herein can be used for the systems and radio technologies mentioned herein as well as other systems and radio technologies. Although aspects of LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro, or NR systems may be described for example purposes, and LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro, or NR terminology may be used in many descriptions, the techniques described herein are applicable beyond LTE, LTE-A, LTE-A Pro, or NR applications.

[0317] A macro cell generally covers a relatively large geographic area (e.g., a radius of several kilometers) and can allow unrestricted access to UEs with a service subscription with the network provider. Compared to a macro cell, a small cell can be associated with a lower-power base station and can operate in the same or different frequency bands as the macro cell (e.g., licensed, unlicensed, etc.). According to various examples, a small cell may include a pico cell, a femto cell, and a micro cell. A pico cell, for example, can cover a small geographic area and can allow unrestricted access to UEs with a service subscription with the network provider. A femto cell can also cover a small geographic area (e.g., a home) and can provide restricted access to UEs associated with the femto cell (e.g., UEs in a closed subscriber group (CSG), UEs for users in a home, etc.). An eNB for a macro cell may be referred to as a macro eNB. An eNB for a small cell may be referred to as a small cell eNB, a pico eNB, a femto eNB, or a home eNB. An eNB can support one or more (e.g., two, three, four, etc.) cells and can also support communications using one or more component carriers.

[0318] The wireless communication systems described herein can support synchronous or asynchronous operation. For synchronous operation, base stations can have similar frame timing, and transmissions from different base stations can be approximately aligned in time. For asynchronous operation, base stations can have different frame timing, and transmissions from different base stations can be aligned in time. The techniques described herein can be used for either synchronous or asynchronous operation.

[0319] The information and signals described herein may be represented using any of a variety of different technologies and techniques. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips that may be mentioned throughout the description may be represented by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, optical fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[0320] The various illustrative blocks and modules described in conjunction with the disclosure herein may be implemented or executed using a general purpose processor, a DSP, an ASIC, an FPGA, or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein. A general purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but alternatively, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices (e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a DSP core, or any other such configuration).

[0321] The functions described herein may be implemented in hardware, software executed by a processor, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software executed by a processor, the functions may be stored on or sent via a computer-readable medium as one or more instructions or codes. Other examples and implementations are within the scope of this disclosure and the appended claims. For example, due to the nature of software, the functions described herein may be implemented using software executed by a processor, hardware, firmware, hard wiring, or any combination thereof. Features that implement the functions may also be physically located at various locations, including portions that are distributed so as to implement the functions at different physical locations.

[0322] Computer-readable media include both non-transitory computer storage media and communication media, and communication media include any media that helps to transfer a computer program from one place to another. Non-transitory storage media can be any available media that can be accessed by a general or special-purpose computer. As an example and not limitation, non-transitory computer-readable media can include RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, compact disc (CD) ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or can be used to carry or store required program code in the form of instructions or data structures and any other non-transitory media that can be accessed by a general or special-purpose computer or a general or special-purpose processor. In addition, any connection is appropriately referred to as a computer-readable medium. For example, if software is sent from a website, server or other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL) or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio and microwaves, then coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, DSL or wireless technologies such as infrared, radio and microwaves are included in the definition of medium. Disk and disc, as used herein, include CDs, laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs, where disks typically reproduce data magnetically, while discs reproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0323] As used herein, including in the claims, "or" used in a list of items (e.g., a list of items preceded by a phrase such as "at least one of" or "one or more of") indicates an inclusive list, so that, for example, a list of at least one of A, B, or C refers to A or B or C or AB or AC or BC or ABC (i.e., A and B and C). In addition, as used herein, the phrase "based on" should not be interpreted as a reference to a closed set of conditions. For example, an exemplary step described as "based on condition A" can be based on both condition A and condition B without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In other words, as used herein, the phrase "based on" should be interpreted in the same manner as the phrase "based at least in part on."

[0324] In the drawings, similar components or features may have the same reference number. In addition, various components of the same type may be distinguished by following the reference number with a dash and a second reference number that distinguishes between similar components. If only the first reference number is used in the specification, the description applies to any one of the similar components having the same first reference number, regardless of the second or subsequent reference numbers.

[0325] The description set forth herein in conjunction with the accompanying drawings describes example configurations and does not represent all examples that can be implemented or within the scope of the claims. The term "exemplary" as used herein means "serving as an example, instance, or illustration," rather than "preferred" or "superior to other examples." In order to provide an understanding of the described techniques, the detailed description includes specific details. However, these techniques can be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block diagram form to avoid obscuring the concepts of the described examples.

[0326] The description herein is provided to enable those skilled in the art to make or use the present disclosure. Various modifications to the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other variations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is not limited to the examples and designs described herein, but should be given the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A method for wireless communication by a relay node, comprising: receiving a transmission time interval (TTI) format indication, the TTI format indication indicating whether the TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI; receiving a transmission for relaying within the TTI; and The transmission is relayed during the TTI according to the TTI format indication.

2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: A configuration is received that indicates an uplink amplification level for relaying uplink transmissions from a user equipment (UE) to a network device and a downlink amplification level for relaying downlink transmissions from the network device to the UE, wherein the transmissions are relayed according to the configuration.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein: Relaying the transmission includes: Uplink transmissions are relayed to the network device according to the uplink amplification level.

4. The method according to claim 2, wherein: Relaying the transmission includes: Downlink transmissions are relayed to the UE according to the downlink amplification level.

5. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: The configuration is processed to determine a reference signal configuration, wherein the transmission is relayed according to the reference signal configuration.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the reference signal configuration is a channel state information reference signal configuration, a synchronization signal block configuration, a sounding reference signal configuration, a positioning reference signal configuration, or any combination thereof.

7. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: The configuration is processed to determine a subset of channels of a plurality of channels to be relayed, wherein the transmission is received within a first channel of the subset of channels.

8. The method according to claim 2, further comprising: The configuration is processed to determine an uplink power control configuration, wherein the transmission is sent according to the uplink power control configuration.

9. An apparatus for wireless communication by a relay node, comprising: processor, a memory in electronic communication with the processor; as well as instructions stored in the memory and executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: receiving a transmission time interval (TTI) format indication, the TTI format indication indicating whether the TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI; receiving a transmission for relaying within the TTI; and The transmission is relayed during the TTI according to the TTI format indication.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: receiving a configuration indicating an uplink amplification level for relaying uplink transmissions from a user equipment (UE) to a network device and a downlink amplification level for relaying downlink transmissions from the network device to the UE, wherein The transmission is relayed according to the configuration.

11. The device according to claim 10, wherein The instructions to relay the transmission are executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: Uplink transmissions are relayed to the network device according to the uplink amplification level.

12. The device according to claim 10, wherein The instructions to relay the transmission are executed by the processor to cause the apparatus to: Downlink transmissions are relayed to the UE according to the downlink amplification level.

13. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: processing the configuration to determine a reference signal configuration, wherein The transmission is relayed according to the reference signal configuration.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the reference signal configuration is a channel state information reference signal configuration, a synchronization signal block configuration, a sounding reference signal configuration, a positioning reference signal configuration, or any combination thereof.

15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: processing the configuration to determine a subset of channels of the plurality of channels to be relayed, wherein The transmission is received within a first channel of the subset of channels.

16. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: processing the configuration to determine an uplink power control configuration, wherein: The transmission is sent according to the uplink power control configuration.

17. An apparatus for wireless communication by a relay node, comprising: a component for receiving a transmission time interval (TTI) format indication, the TTI format indication indicating whether the TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI; a component for receiving a transmission for relaying within the TTI; as well as Components for relaying the transmission during the TTI according to the TTI format indication.

18. The apparatus according to claim 17, further comprising: A component for receiving a configuration indicating an uplink amplification level for relaying uplink transmissions from a user equipment (UE) to a network device and a downlink amplification level for relaying downlink transmissions from the network device to the UE, wherein the transmissions are relayed according to the configuration.

19. The device according to claim 18, wherein Relaying the transmission includes: A component for relaying uplink transmissions to the network device based on the uplink amplification level.

20. The apparatus according to claim 18, wherein Relaying the transmission includes: A component for relaying a downlink transmission to the UE according to the downlink amplification level.

21. The apparatus according to claim 18, further comprising: A component for processing the configuration to determine a reference signal configuration, wherein the transmission is relayed according to the reference signal configuration.

22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the reference signal configuration is a channel state information reference signal configuration, a synchronization signal block configuration, a sounding reference signal configuration, a positioning reference signal configuration, or any combination thereof.

23. The apparatus of claim 18, further comprising: A component for processing the configuration to determine a subset of channels of a plurality of channels to relay, wherein the transmission is received within a first channel of the subset of channels.

24. The apparatus of claim 18, further comprising: A component for processing the configuration to determine an uplink power control configuration, wherein the transmission is sent according to the uplink power control configuration.

25. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing code for wireless communication by a relay node, the code comprising instructions executable by a processor to cause an apparatus to: receiving a transmission time interval (TTI) format indication, the TTI format indication indicating whether the TTI is a downlink TTI or an uplink TTI; receiving a transmission for relaying within the TTI; and The transmission is relayed during the TTI according to the TTI format indication.

26. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 25, wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: receiving a configuration indicating an uplink amplification level for relaying uplink transmissions from a user equipment (UE) to a network device and a downlink amplification level for relaying downlink transmissions from the network device to the UE, wherein The transmission is relayed according to the configuration.

27. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 26, wherein: The instructions to relay the transmission are executed by the processor to cause the apparatus to: Uplink transmissions are relayed to the network device according to the uplink amplification level.

28. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 26, wherein: The instructions to relay the transmission are executed by the processor to cause the apparatus to: Downlink transmissions are relayed to the UE according to the downlink amplification level.

29. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 26, wherein the instructions are further executable by the processor to cause the apparatus to: processing the configuration to determine a reference signal configuration, wherein The transmission is relayed according to the reference signal configuration.

30. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 29, wherein the reference signal configuration is a channel state information reference signal configuration, a synchronization signal block configuration, a sounding reference signal configuration, a positioning reference signal configuration, or any combination thereof.

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