Apparatus and method for low-burden frequency-averaged beam pattern feedback in millimeter-wave positioning systems

Abstract

The location of the mobile device is estimated using angle-based positioning measurements. These measurements are generated using transmit (Tx) or receive (Rx) beams from one or more base stations generating beams over an ultra-wide bandwidth that introduces frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response. Variations in the array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for the set of beam weights used in beamforming are transmitted to indicate frequency and spatial distortion. The array gain distribution variation for a subband that serves as a portion of the allocated bandwidth for the base station can be provided to the mobile device in auxiliary data, or an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple subbands of the allocated bandwidth can be provided to the mobile device to reduce the burden on signaling.

Description

[0001] Priority requirements

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. nonprovisional application No. 17 / 095,262, filed November 11, 2020, entitled “APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR LOWOVERHEAD FREQUENCY-AVERAGED BEAM PATTERN FEEBACK IN MILLIMETER WAVEPOSITIONING SYSTEMS”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The topics disclosed in this paper relate to location estimation for mobile devices, and more specifically to support positioning using beams generated by mmW small cells. Background Technology

[0004] Location information for mobile devices (such as cellular phones) can be useful or essential for many applications, including emergency calls, navigation, direction finding, asset tracking, and internet services. The location of a mobile device can be estimated based on information collected from various systems. For example, in cellular networks implemented using 4G (also known as fourth-generation) Long Term Evolution (LTE) radio access or 5G (also known as fifth-generation) New Radio (NR), base stations can transmit a Location Reference Signal (PRS). Mobile devices that acquire PRS transmitted from different base stations can feed signal-based measurements to a location server, which may be part of an Evolved Packet Core (EPC) or a 5G Core Network (5GCN), for use in calculating the mobile device's location estimate. For example, a UE can generate location measurements based on downlink (DL) PRS, such as Reference Signal Time Difference (RSTD), Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP), and Receive-to-Transmit (RX-TX) time difference measurements, which can be used in various positioning methods, such as Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA), Angle of Departure (AoD), and Multi-Cell Round-Trip Time (RTT). Alternatively, mobile devices can use various positioning methods to calculate an estimate of their own location. Other positioning methods that can be used for mobile devices include using a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) (such as GPS, GLONASS, or Galileo) and using Auxiliary GNSS (A-GNSS), in which the network provides auxiliary data to the mobile device to help the mobile device acquire and measure GNSS signals and / or calculate a location estimate based on GNSS measurements.

[0005] In the context of 5G NR cellular networks, small cells are playing an increasingly important role. For example, operators are sometimes expected to deploy numerous small cells to enhance capacity beyond macrocell coverage. Small cells using millimeter wave (“mmW”) transmissions (sometimes referred to as frequency 2 and frequency 4 and above) are predicted to expand their footprint globally because mmW can provide greater spectrum bandwidth and shorter air interface latency than what is present in macrocells. Specifically, driven by the anticipated extremely high data rates (e.g., at the Gbps level), mmW small cell deployment is expected to be particularly useful in indoor environments. The expanded deployment of small cells (especially in environments where positioning is difficult, such as indoor environments) provides additional positioning opportunities. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The location of the mobile device is estimated using angle-based positioning measurements. These measurements are generated using transmit (Tx) or receive (Rx) beams from one or more base stations generating beams over an ultra-wide bandwidth that introduces frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response. Variations in the array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for the set of beam weights used in beamforming are transmitted to the mobile device, or an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple subbands of allocated bandwidth is transmitted to the mobile device to reduce the burden on signaling.

[0007] In one embodiment, a method performed by a mobile device to support positioning of the mobile device in a wireless network may include: receiving auxiliary data for positioning, the auxiliary data including variations in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming. The method may include measuring at least one angle-based positioning measurement of a reference signal received from the at least one base station based on the auxiliary data. The method may include generating location information based on the at least one angle-based positioning measurement.

[0008] In one embodiment, a mobile device (configured to support location of the mobile device in a wireless network) may include: a wireless transceiver configured to communicate wirelessly in the wireless network; at least one memory; and at least one processor coupled to the wireless transceiver and the at least one memory. The at least one processor may be configured to receive auxiliary data for location via the wireless transceiver, the auxiliary data including variations in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming. The at least one processor may be configured to measure at least one angle-based location measurement of a reference signal received from the at least one base station based on the auxiliary data. The at least one processor may be configured to generate location information based on the at least one angle-based location measurement.

[0009] In one embodiment, a mobile device (configured to support positioning of the mobile device in a wireless network) includes: components for receiving auxiliary data for positioning, the auxiliary data including array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming. The mobile device may include components for measuring at least one angle-based positioning measurement based on the auxiliary data, of a reference signal received from the at least one base station. The mobile device may include components for generating location information based on the at least one angle-based positioning measurement.

[0010] In one embodiment, a non-transitory storage medium including program code stored thereon (the program code being operable to configure at least one processor in a mobile device to support positioning of the mobile device in a wireless network) includes: program code for receiving auxiliary data for positioning, the auxiliary data including array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming; the non-transitory storage medium includes program code for measuring at least one angle-based positioning measurement of a reference signal received from the at least one base station based on the auxiliary data; and the non-transitory storage medium includes program code for generating location information based on the at least one angle-based positioning measurement.

[0011] In one implementation, a method performed by a location server to support the localization of a mobile device in a wireless network may include: obtaining a change in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming. The method may include receiving at least one angle-based localization measurement for the mobile device from at least one network node. The method may include determining a location estimate of the mobile device based on the at least one angle-based localization measurement and the change in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station.

[0012] In one embodiment, a location server for supporting the location of a mobile device in a wireless network may include: an external interface configured to communicate in the wireless network; at least one memory; and at least one processor coupled to the external interface and the at least one memory. The at least one processor may be configured to obtain, via the external interface, a variation of the array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beamweights used by at least one base station in beamforming. The at least one processor may be configured to receive, via the external interface, at least one angle-based location measurement for the mobile device from at least one network node. The at least one processor may be configured to determine a location estimate of the mobile device based on the at least one angle-based location measurement and the variation of the array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beamweights used by the at least one base station.

[0013] In one embodiment, a location server for supporting the localization of a mobile device in a wireless network may include: components for obtaining a variation in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beamweights used by at least one base station in beamforming. The location server includes components for receiving at least one angle-based localization measurement for the mobile device from at least one network node. The location server also includes components for determining a location estimate of the mobile device based on the at least one angle-based localization measurement and the variation in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for the set of beamweights used by the at least one base station.

[0014] In one embodiment, a non-transitory storage medium including program code stored thereon (the program code being operable to configure at least one processor in a location server to support the localization of a mobile device in a wireless network) includes: program code for obtaining a change in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming. The non-transitory storage medium includes program code for receiving at least one angle-based localization measurement for the mobile device from at least one network node. The non-transitory storage medium includes program code for determining a location estimate of the mobile device based on the at least one angle-based localization measurement and the change in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station.

[0015] In one embodiment, a method performed by a location server to support the localization of a mobile device in a wireless network may include: obtaining an array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used in beamforming by at least one base station. The method may include preparing auxiliary data for localization of the mobile device based on the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used in beamforming by the at least one base station. The method may include sending the auxiliary data for localization to the mobile device, the auxiliary data having the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used in beamforming by the at least one base station.

[0016] In one embodiment, a location server configured to support location of a mobile device in a wireless network may include: an external interface configured to communicate in the wireless network; at least one memory; and at least one processor coupled to the external interface and the at least one memory. The at least one processor may be configured to obtain, via the external interface, an array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beamweights used in beamforming by at least one base station. The at least one processor may be configured to prepare auxiliary data for location of the mobile device based on the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beamweights used in beamforming by at least one base station. The at least one processor may be configured to transmit the auxiliary data for location to the mobile device via the external interface, the auxiliary data having the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beamweights used in beamforming by at least one base station.

[0017] In one embodiment, a location server configured to support the localization of a mobile device in a wireless network may include: components for obtaining a variation in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used in beamforming by at least one base station. The location server may include components for preparing auxiliary data for localization of the mobile device based on the variation in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used in beamforming by the at least one base station. The location server may include components for transmitting the auxiliary data for localization to the mobile device, the auxiliary data having the variation in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used in beamforming by the at least one base station.

[0018] In one embodiment, a non-transitory storage medium including program code stored thereon (the program code being operable to configure at least one processor in a location server configured to support the positioning of a mobile device in a wireless network) includes: program code for obtaining an array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming. The non-transitory storage medium includes: program code for preparing auxiliary data for positioning the mobile device based on the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for the at least one set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming. The non-transitory storage medium includes program code for transmitting the auxiliary data for positioning to the mobile device, the auxiliary data having an array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for the at least one set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming.

[0019] In one implementation, a method performed by a base station to support the location of a mobile device in a wireless network may include: obtaining an array gain distribution change as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming. The method may include sending the array gain distribution change as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming to a location server.

[0020] In one embodiment, a base station configured to support the location of mobile devices in a wireless network may include: an external interface configured to communicate in the wireless network; at least one memory; and at least one processor coupled to the external interface and the at least one memory. The at least one processor may be configured to obtain an array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beamweights used by the base station in beamforming. The at least one processor may be configured to transmit the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beamweights used by the base station in beamforming to a location server via the external interface.

[0021] In one embodiment, a base station configured to support the location of mobile devices in a wireless network may include: components for obtaining a change in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming. The base station includes components for transmitting to a location server the change in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming.

[0022] In one embodiment, a non-transitory storage medium including program code stored thereon (the program code being operable to configure at least one processor in a base station configured to support the location of mobile devices in a wireless network) includes: program code for obtaining a change in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming. The non-transitory storage medium includes program code for sending to a location server the change in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming.

[0023] Other objects and advantages associated with the aspects disclosed herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art based on the accompanying drawings and detailed description. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The accompanying drawings are presented to help describe various aspects of this disclosure and are provided only to illustrate aspects and not to limit it.

[0025] Figure 1 Exemplary wireless communication systems according to various aspects of this disclosure are shown.

[0026] Figure 2A and Figure 2B Exemplary wireless network architectures according to various aspects of this disclosure are shown.

[0027] Figure 3A block diagram of a base station and user equipment (UE) design is shown, which may be... Figure 1 One of the base stations and the UEs.

[0028] Figure 4 The structure of an exemplary subframe sequence for the Positioning Reference Signal (PRS) is shown.

[0029] Figure 5 This diagram illustrates the determination of the downlink (DL) departure angle (AoD) position.

[0030] Figure 6A An illustration is shown showing the location determined using the uplink (UL) angle of arrival (AoA) position of a single base station.

[0031] Figure 6B An illustration is shown showing the determination of uplink (UL) angle of arrival (AoA) positions using multiple base stations.

[0032] Figure 7 An example of a narrow beam generated by a mmW antenna panel is shown.

[0033] Figure 8A and Figure 8B The diagrams show the array gain (in dB) as a function of angle and frequency for a 16x1 antenna array with an array spacing of d = λ / 2 at 57 GHz or 71 GHz for multiple frequencies.

[0034] Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C The diagram illustrates various types of array gain distribution variations as functions of angle and frequency for the beam weight set used by the base station for beamforming, which can be provided to the UE in auxiliary data.

[0035] Figure 10 An example of a signaling flow illustrating various messages sent during a positioning session is shown, which can provide variations in the array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for the beam weight set used by the base station for beamforming to support positioning.

[0036] Figure 11 A schematic block diagram illustrating some exemplary features of the UE is shown, which is capable of supporting positioning using array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency.

[0037] Figure 12 A schematic block diagram illustrating some exemplary features of a location server is shown, which is capable of supporting UE positioning using array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency.

[0038] Figure 13 A schematic block diagram illustrating some exemplary features of a location server is shown, which is capable of supporting UE positioning using array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency.

[0039] Figure 14 A flowchart is shown of an exemplary method performed by a mobile device to determine the location of the mobile device.

[0040] Figure 15 A flowchart is shown of an exemplary method for determining the location of a mobile device, performed by a location server.

[0041] Figure 16 A flowchart is shown of another exemplary method for determining the location of a mobile device, performed by a location server.

[0042] Figure 17 A flowchart is shown of an exemplary method performed by a base station to determine the location of a mobile device. Detailed Implementation

[0043] Various aspects of this disclosure are provided in the following description and in the related drawings with reference to various examples provided for illustrative purposes. Alternative aspects may be designed without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In addition, well-known elements of this disclosure will not be described in detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details of this disclosure.

[0044] The terms “exemplary” and / or “illustrated” are used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any aspect described herein as “exemplary” and / or “illustrated” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects. Similarly, the term “aspect” in this disclosure does not require that all aspects of this disclosure include the features, advantages, or modes of operation discussed.

[0045] Those skilled in the art will understand that any of a variety of different technologies and techniques can be used to represent the information and signals described below. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips that may be mentioned throughout the following description can be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, light fields or particles, or any combination thereof, depending on the specific application, the desired design, and the corresponding technology, etc.

[0046] Furthermore, many aspects are described according to sequences of actions performed, for example, by elements of a computing device. It will be appreciated that the various actions described herein may be performed by a particular circuit (e.g., an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC)), by program instructions executed by one or more processors, or by a combination of both. Additionally, the sequences of actions(one or more) described herein may be considered entirely embodied in any form of non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing a corresponding set of computer instructions that, upon execution, will cause or instruct the associated processor of the device to perform the functionality described herein. Therefore, various aspects of this disclosure may be embodied in many different forms, all of which are considered to be within the scope of the claimed subject matter. Furthermore, for each aspect described herein, the corresponding form of any such aspect may be described herein as, for example, "logic" "configured" to perform the described actions.

[0047] As used herein, unless otherwise stated, the terms “User Equipment” (UE) and “Base Station” are not intended to be specific to or otherwise limited to any particular Radio Access Technology (RAT). Generally, a UE can be any wireless communication device used by a user to communicate over a wireless communication network (e.g., mobile phone, router, tablet computer, laptop computer, tracking device, wearable device (e.g., smartwatch, glasses, augmented reality (AR) / virtual reality (VR)) headset, etc.), vehicle (e.g., car, motorcycle, bicycle, etc.), Internet of Things (IoT) device, etc.). A UE can be mobile or can (e.g., at certain times) be stationary and can communicate with a Radio Access Network (RAN). As used herein, the term “UE” can be interchangeably referred to as “Access Terminal” or “AT,” “Client Equipment,” “Wireless Equipment,” “Subscriber Equipment,” “Subscriber Terminal,” “Subscriber Station,” “User Terminal” or “UT,” “Mobile Terminal,” “Mobile Station,” “Mobile Equipment,” or variations thereof. Generally, a UE can communicate with a core network via the RAN, and through the core network, a UE can connect to external networks such as the Internet and to other UEs. Of course, for the UE, other mechanisms such as connecting to the core network and / or the Internet via wired access networks, wireless local area network (WLAN) networks (e.g., based on IEEE 802.11, etc.) are also possible.

[0048] A base station may operate according to one of several RATs used to communicate with the UE, depending on the network in which it is deployed, and may be alternatively referred to as an Access Point (AP), Network Node, NodeB, Evolved NodeB (eNB), New Radio (NR) NodeB (also known as gNB or gNodB), etc. Additionally, in some systems, a base station may purely provide edge node signaling functions, while in others it may provide additional control and / or network management functions. The communication link through which the UE sends signals to the base station is called an uplink (UL) channel (e.g., reverse traffic channel, reverse control channel, access channel, etc.). The communication link through which the RAN sends signals to the base station is called a downlink (DL) or forward link channel (e.g., paging channel, control channel, broadcast channel, forward traffic channel, etc.). As used herein, the term Traffic Channel (TCH) may refer to either the UL / reverse or DL / forward traffic channel.

[0049] The term "base station" can refer to a single physical transmitting point or multiple physical transmitting points that may or may not be co-located. For example, when the term "base station" refers to a single physical transmitting point, the physical transmitting point can be an antenna of the base station corresponding to a cell of the base station. When the term "base station" refers to multiple co-located physical transmitting points, the physical transmitting points can be an antenna array of the base station (e.g., as in a multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) system or in the case of beamforming at the base station). When the term "base station" refers to multiple non-co-located physical transmitting points, the physical transmitting points can be a distributed antenna system (DAS) (a spatially separated antenna network connected to a common source via a transmission medium) or a remote radio head (RRH) (a remote base station connected to a serving base station). Alternatively, a non-co-located physical transmitting point can be a serving base station that receives measurement reports from the UE and neighboring base stations where the UE is measuring its reference RF signal.

[0050] To support UE positioning, two main categories of positioning solutions are defined: control plane and user plane. With control plane (CP) positioning, signaling related to positioning and positioning support can be carried over existing network (and UE) interfaces using existing protocols dedicated to signaling delivery. For user plane (UP) positioning, signaling related to positioning and positioning support can be carried as part of other data using protocols such as Internet Protocol (IP), Transmission Control Protocol (TCP), and User Datagram Protocol (UDP).

[0051] The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has defined control plane positioning solutions for UEs using radio access based on the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) (2G), Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) (3G), LTE 4G, and New Radio (NR) for 5G. These solutions are defined in 3GPP Technical Specifications (TS) 23.271 and 23.273 (General Parts), 43.059 (GSM Access), 25.305 (UMTS Access), 36.305 (LTE Access), and 38.305 (NR Access). The Open Mobility Alliance (OMA) has similarly defined an up-plane positioning solution called Secure User Plane Positioning (SUPL), which can be used to locate UEs with access to any of the following radio interfaces: GSM supporting IP packet access (such as General Packet Radio Service (GPRS)), UMTS supporting GPRS, or LTE or NR supporting IP access.

[0052] Both CP and UP positioning solutions can employ a location server (LS) to support positioning. The location server can be part of or accessible from the UE's serving or home network, or simply accessible via the Internet or a local intranet. If positioning of the UE is required, the location server can initiate a session with the UE (e.g., a positioning session or a SUPL session) and coordinate the determination of the UE's location measurements and estimated location. During the positioning session, the location server can request positioning capabilities from the UE (or the UE can provide positioning capabilities without a request), can provide auxiliary data to the UE (e.g., if requested by the UE or not), and can request location estimates or measurements from the UE, for example, for GNSS, TDOA, AOD, multi-RTT, and / or enhanced cell ID (ECID) positioning methods. The UE can use the auxiliary data to acquire and measure GNSS and / or PRS signals (e.g., by providing expected characteristics of these signals, such as frequency, expected time of arrival, signal decoding, and signal Doppler).

[0053] In UE-based operating modes, the UE may also or alternatively use auxiliary data to help determine the location estimate based on the obtained location measurement (e.g., if the auxiliary data provides satellite ephemeris data in the case of GNSS positioning or base station positioning, and provides other base station features such as PRS timing in the case of terrestrial positioning using such as TDOA, AOD, multi-RTT, etc).

[0054] In UE-assisted operation mode, the UE can return location measurements to a location server, which can determine the UE's estimated location based on these measurements and possibly other known or configured data (e.g., satellite ephemeris data for GNSS location, or base station characteristics, including base station location and possible PRS timing in the case of ground positioning using methods such as TDOA, AOD, and multiple RTT).

[0055] In another standalone operating mode, the UE can perform location-related measurements without any positioning assistance data from the positioning server, and can further calculate position or position changes without any positioning assistance data from the positioning server. Positioning methods that can be used in standalone mode include GPS and GNSS (e.g., if the UE obtains satellite orbit data from data broadcast by the GPS and GNSS satellites themselves) and sensors.

[0056] In the case of 3GPP CP positioning, the positioning server can be an Enhanced Serving Mobile Location Center (E-SMLC) for LTE access, a Standalone SMLC (SAS) for UMTS access, a Serving Mobile Location Center (SMLC) for GSM access, or a Location Management Function (LMF) for 5GNR access. In the case of OMASUPL positioning, the positioning server can be a SUPL Positioning Platform (SLP), which can act as any of the following: (i) Home SLP (H-SLP), if in or associated with the UE's home network, or if a permanent subscription is provided to the UE for positioning services; (ii) Discovered SLP (D-SLP), if in or associated with some other (non-home) network, or if not associated with any network; (iii) Emergency SLP (E-SLP), if supporting positioning for emergency calls initiated by the UE; (iv) Accessed SLP (V-SLP), if in or associated with the serving network or the UE's current local area.

[0057] During a positioning session, the positioning server and the UE can exchange messages defined according to several positioning protocols to coordinate the determination of estimated location. Possible positioning protocols may include, for example, the LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) defined by 3GPP in 3GPP TS 36.355 and the LPP Extensions (LPPe) protocols defined by OMA in OMA TS OMA-TS-LPPe-V1_0, OMA-TS-LPPe-V1_1, and OMA-TS-LPPe-V2_0. LPP and LPPe protocols can be used in combination, where an LPP message contains an embedded LPPe message. This combined LPP and LPPe protocol can be referred to as LPP / LPPe. LPP and LPP / LPPe can be used to help support 3GPP control plane solutions for LTE or NR access, in which case LPP or LPP / LPPe messages are exchanged between the UE and the E-SMLC or between the UE and the LMF. LPP or LPPe messages can be exchanged between the UE and the E-SMLC via the UE's Serving Mobility Management Entity (MME) and the serving eNodeB. LPP or LPPe messages can also be exchanged between the UE and the LMF via the UE's Serving Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) and the Serving NR Node B (gNB). LPP and LPP / LPPe can also be used to help support the OMA SUPL solution for various types of radio access such as LTE, NR, and WiFi, where LPP or LPP / LPPe messages are exchanged between the SUPL Enabled Terminal (SET) (which is the term for UEs with SUPL) and the SLP, and can be transmitted in SUPL messages such as SUPL POS or SUPL POS INIT messages.

[0058] Location servers and base stations (e.g., eNodeBs for LTE access) can exchange messages enabling the location server to (i) obtain location measurements of a specific UE from the base station, or (ii) obtain location information unrelated to a specific UE from the base station, such as the location coordinates of the base station's antennas, the cell supported by the base station (e.g., cell identifier), the cell timing of the base station, and / or parameters of signals transmitted by the base station (such as PRS signals). In the case of LTE access, the LPP A (LPPa) protocol can be used to transmit such messages between the base station acting as an eNodeB and the location server acting as an E-SMLC. In the case of NR access, the NRPPA protocol can be used to transmit such messages between the base station acting as a gNodeB and the location server acting as an LMF. It should be noted that the terms "parameter" and "information element" (IE) are synonyms and are used interchangeably herein. It should also be noted that, as used herein, the term "posSIB" refers to a System Information Block (SIB) that includes auxiliary data (also referred to as "location auxiliary data") used to support the positioning of one or more UEs. However, in some instances, the term "SIB" is used herein to refer to an SIB containing auxiliary data for supporting the positioning of one or more UEs. It should also be noted that the terms "SI message" and "positioning SI message" are used interchangeably herein to refer to system information messages containing auxiliary data (e.g., auxiliary data in the form of one or more posSIBs).

[0059] Small cells using mmW transmission are expected to be increasingly deployed in 5G NR cellular networks, particularly in environments where radio signal-based positioning is typically difficult (e.g., indoor or dense urban environments). Small cells utilize antenna arrays in MIMO systems for beamforming. With a large number of antenna elements, beamforming can be used to generate very narrow beams, for example, 3dB beamwidths of 15° or less. These very narrow beams can be scanned horizontally (azimuth) and vertically (elevation) to form a spatial grid of beams.

[0060] Information relating to which beams in the beam space grid are received by the UE can provide accurate location information for the UE without requiring the TRP to transmit a specific reference signal or the UE to perform positioning measurements on the reference signal. By combining information relating to which beams are received by the UE from several neighboring small cell TRPs, accurate location estimates for the UE can be generated, for example, based on the intersection of the beams.

[0061] In versions 16 and later, positioning in millimeter-wave systems has been of great interest. For example, implementations of positioning using millimeter-wave transmissions are underway, such as UE-based, UE-assisted positioning techniques, and UL, DL, or UL and DL methods for estimating the angle of departure (AoD) and / or angle of arrival (AoA) at the gNB.

[0062] In addition to millimeter-wave systems (e.g., frequency range 2 (FR2) encompassing a frequency band from 24.25 GHz to 52.6 GHz), shorter-wave systems, such as frequency range 4 (FR4) encompassing a frequency band from 52.6 GHz to 114.25 GHz (sometimes referred to as the "upper millimeter-wave band"), are being investigated. Future 3GPP releases may consider extending higher carrier frequencies. For example, the "sub-THz" range could begin at 100 or 275 GHz (depending on the usage environment) and extend to 1000 GHz. These are expected to be part of super-FR4 (or sometimes labeled FR5) systems. The wavelengths at the upper millimeter-wave band are shorter than those at FR2 (e.g., 28 or 39 GHz), and therefore more antenna elements can be packed into the same physical aperture in FR4 or FR5 compared to FR2; for example, FR4 uses a larger antenna array compared to FR2.

[0063] Version 17 focuses on the 52.6 GHz to 71 GHz range. Within this range, a wide bandwidth of approximately 14 GHz (e.g., between 57 GHz and 71 GHz) is available across multiple geographic areas, allowing for significant performance / beamforming gains. In many devices, a single radio frequency (RF) chain may be used over this ultra-wide bandwidth of approximately 14 GHz. Because a single RF chain uses a single set of phase shifters and gain stages, analog / RF beamforming is limited, which can lead to poor performance at certain frequencies.

[0064] It is desirable to utilize auxiliary information to assist the UE, which takes into account the specific characteristics of the upper millimeter-wave band and UE-side attenuation. However, in some implementations, this can be done in a low-burden manner to accommodate ultra-wide bandwidth operation.

[0065] Figure 1An exemplary wireless communication system 100 is illustrated. The wireless communication system 100 (also referred to as a wireless wide area network (WWAN)) may include various base stations 102 and various UEs 104. Base stations 102 may include macrocell base stations (high-power cellular base stations) and / or small cell base stations (low-power cellular base stations). For example, a small cell base station may be a “mid-range base station” and a “local area base station” as defined in Section 4.4 of 3GPP Technical Specification (TS) 38.104, which includes base stations characterized by requirements derived from a microcell scenario where the minimum distance from the BS to the UE along the ground is equal to 5m or the minimum coupling loss is equal to 53dB, or requirements derived from a picocell scenario where the minimum distance from the BS to the UE along the ground is equal to 2m or the minimum coupling loss is equal to 45dB. On the one hand, macrocell base stations may include an eNB in ​​which the wireless communication system 100 corresponds to an LTE network, or a gNB in ​​which the wireless communication system 100 corresponds to a 5G network and / or a combination of both, and small cell base stations may include femtocells, picocells, microcells, etc.

[0066] Base station 102 can collectively form a RAN and interface with core network 170 (e.g., Evolved Packet Core (EPC) or Next Generation Core (NGC)) via backhaul link 122, and interface with one or more location servers 172 via core network 170. Location server 172 may be internal to or external to core network 170. In some implementations, location server 172 may be an E-SMLC (in the case of LTE access), a standalone SMLC (SAS) (in the case of UMTS access), an SMLC (in the case of GSM access), a SUPL positioning platform (SLP), or a location management function (LMF) (in the case of 5G NR access). Alternatively or concurrently, the location server may be within the RAN and may be co-located with or part of the serving base station 102, which is sometimes referred to as Location Server Agent (LSS) 117. LSS 117 may replace location server 172 or may operate in conjunction with location server 172, for example, performing functions that would otherwise be performed by location server 172, such as improving latency. In addition to other functions, base station 102 may also perform functions related to one or more of the following: transmitting user data, radio channel encryption and decryption, integrity protection, header compression, mobility control functions (e.g., handover, dual connectivity), inter-cell interference coordination, connection establishment and release, load balancing, distribution of non-access stratum (NAS) messages, NAS node selection, synchronization, RAN sharing, multimedia broadcast multicast service (MBMS), subscriber and equipment tracking, RAN information management (RIM), paging, location, and warning message delivery. Base stations 102 may communicate with each other directly or indirectly (e.g., via EPC / NGC) through backhaul link 134, which may be wired or wireless.

[0067] Base station 102 can wirelessly communicate with UE 104. Each of base stations 102 can provide communication coverage for a corresponding geographic coverage area 110. In one aspect, one base station 102 in each coverage area 110 can support one or more cells. A “cell” is a logical communication entity used to communicate with a base station (e.g., via a frequency resource, referred to as a carrier frequency, component carrier, carrier, band, etc.) and can be associated with an identifier (e.g., Physical Cell Identifier (PCID), Virtual Cell Identifier (VCID)) used to distinguish cells operating via the same or different carrier frequencies. In some cases, different cells can be configured based on different protocol types that can provide access for different types of UEs (e.g., Machine Type Communication (MTC), Narrowband IoL (NB-IoT), Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), or other protocol types). In some cases, the term “cell” can also refer to a geographic coverage area (e.g., a sector) of a base station, provided that the carrier frequency can be detected and used for communication within a portion of the geographic coverage area 110.

[0068] Although the geographic coverage areas 110 of adjacent macro cell base stations 102 may partially overlap (e.g., in handover areas), some geographic coverage areas 110 may substantially overlap with larger geographic coverage areas 110. For example, a small cell base station 102' may have a coverage area 110' that substantially overlaps with the coverage areas 110 of one or more macro cell base stations 102. A network that includes both small cell and macro cell base stations can be referred to as a heterogeneous network. A heterogeneous network may also include home eNBs (HeNBs) that provide service to restricted groups referred to as closed subscriber groups (CSGs).

[0069] The communication link 120 between base station 102 and UE 104 may include UL (also known as reverse link) transmission from UE 104 to base station 102 and / or downlink (DL) transmission from base station 102 to UE 104 (also known as forward link). The communication link 120 may use MIMO antenna techniques including spatial multiplexing, beamforming, and / or transmit diversity. The communication link 120 may use one or more carrier frequencies. Carrier allocation may be asymmetric for DL ​​and UL (e.g., more or fewer carriers may be allocated to DL compared to UL).

[0070] The wireless communication system 100 may also include a wireless local area network (WLAN) access point (AP) 150, which communicates with a WLAN station (STA) 152 via a communication link 154 in an unlicensed frequency spectrum (e.g., 5 GHz). When communicating in the unlicensed frequency spectrum, the WLAN STA 152 and / or the WLAN AP 150 may perform a free channel assessment (CCA) before communication to determine whether the channel is available.

[0071] Small cell base station 102' can operate in licensed and / or unlicensed frequency spectrum. When operating in unlicensed frequency spectrum, small cell base station 102' can employ LTE or 5G technology and use the same 5GHz unlicensed frequency spectrum as WLAN AP 150. Small cell base station 102' employing LTE / 5G in unlicensed frequency spectrum can increase coverage and / or capacity of the access network. LTE in unlicensed frequency spectrum can be referred to as LTE Unlicensed (LTE-U), Licensed Assisted Access (LAA), or MulteFire.

[0072] The wireless communication system 100 may also include a millimeter-wave (mmW) base station 102 (which may be a small cell base station) that can communicate with the UE 104 in mmW and / or near-mmW frequencies. Extremely high frequency (EHF) is a portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that contains radio frequency (RF). EHF has a range of 30 GHz to 300 GHz and wavelengths between 1 mm and 10 mm. Radio waves in this band can be referred to as millimeter waves. Near-mmW may extend down to a 3 GHz frequency with a wavelength of 100 mm. The ultra-high frequency (SHF) band extends between 3 GHz and 30 GHz and is also referred to as centimeter waves. Communication using mmW / near-mmW radio frequency bands has high path loss and relatively short range. The mmW base station 102 and the UE 104 can utilize beamforming (transmit and / or receive) on the mmW communication link 120 to compensate for the extremely high path loss and short range. Furthermore, it should be understood that in alternative configurations, one or more base stations 102 may also use mmW or near-mmW and beamforming for transmission. Furthermore, mmW base stations can operate in the upper millimeter-wave frequency band, for example, between 52.6 GHz and 114.25 GHz, or certain frequency allocations within that range, such as 52.6 GHz to 71 GHz or other ranges. Alternatively, ultra-wideband operation can also be performed in sub-THz frequencies (above 100 GHz, 275 GHz, or 300 GHz, depending on how the sub-THz range is defined). Therefore, it should be understood that the foregoing illustrations are merely examples and should not be construed as limiting the various aspects disclosed herein.

[0073] Transmit beamforming is a technique for focusing an RF signal in a specific direction. Traditionally, when a network node (e.g., a base station) broadcasts an RF signal, it broadcasts the signal in all directions (omnidirectionally). Using transmit beamforming, the network node determines the location of a given target device (e.g., a UE) (relative to the transmitting network node) and projects a stronger downlink RF signal in that specific direction, thereby providing a faster (in terms of data rate) and stronger RF signal to one or more receiving devices. To change the directivity of the RF signal during transmission, the network node can control the phase and relative amplitude of the RF signal at each of one or more transmitters broadcasting the RF signal. For example, the network node can use an antenna array (referred to as a "phased array" or "antenna array") that generates a beam of RF waves that can be "directed" to different directions without actually moving the antennas. Specifically, RF currents from the transmitters are fed to individual antennas with the correct phase relationship, allowing the radio waves from the individual antennas to be added together to increase radiation in the desired direction while canceling out radiation in undesired directions.

[0074] In receive beamforming, a receiver uses a receive beam to amplify an RF signal detected on a given channel. For example, the receiver may increase the gain setting and / or adjust the phase setting of the antenna array in a specific direction to amplify the RF signal received from that direction (e.g., to increase its gain level). Therefore, when a receiver is considered to be beamforming in a certain direction, it means that the beam gain in that direction is high relative to the beam gain in other directions, or that the beam gain in that direction is the highest compared to the beam gain in all other directions available to that receiver. This results in a stronger received signal strength (e.g., reference signal received power (RSRP), reference signal received quality (RSRQ), signal-to-noise ratio (SINR), etc.) of the RF signal received from that direction.

[0075] In 5G, the frequency spectrum operated by radio nodes (e.g., base station 102, UE 104) is divided into several frequency ranges: FR1 (from 450MHz to 6000MHz), FR2 (from 24250MHz to 52600MHz), and FR4 (between 52.6GHz and 114.25GHz). In multi-carrier systems such as 5G, one of the carrier frequencies is referred to as the "primary carrier," "anchor carrier," "primary serving cell," or "PCell," while the remaining carrier frequencies are referred to as "secondary carriers," "secondary serving cells," or "SCell." In carrier aggregation, the anchor carrier is the carrier operating on the primary frequency (e.g., FR1) used by UE 104 and the cell in which UE 104 performs the initial radio resource control (RRC) connection establishment procedure or initiates the RRC connection re-establishment procedure. The primary carrier carries all common and UE-specific control channels. A secondary carrier is a carrier operating on a second frequency (e.g., FR2). This carrier can be configured and used to provide additional radio resources once an RRC connection is established between UE 104 and the anchor carrier. The secondary carrier may contain only the necessary signaling information and signals; for example, UE-specific signaling information and signals may not be present in the secondary carrier because both the primary uplink and downlink carriers are typically UE-specific. This means that different UEs 104 within a cell may have different downlink primary carriers. The same applies to the uplink primary carrier. The network can change the primary carrier of any UE 104 at any time. This is done, for example, to balance the load on different carriers. Because a “serving cell” (whether PCell or SCell) corresponds to the carrier frequency / component carrier on which a base station is communicating, the terms “cell,” “serving cell,” “component carrier,” “carrier frequency,” etc., are used interchangeably.

[0076] For example, still refer to Figure 1 One of the frequencies used by the macro cell base station 102 can be an anchor carrier (or "PCell"), while the other frequencies used by the macro cell base station 102 and / or the mmW base station 102 can be secondary carriers ("SCell"). Simultaneous transmission and / or reception on multiple carriers allows the UE 104 to significantly increase its data transmission and / or reception rates. For example, compared to that achieved by a single 20MHz carrier, the aggregation of two 20MHz carriers in a multi-carrier system theoretically results in a doubling of the data rate (i.e., 40MHz).

[0077] The wireless communication system 100 may also include one or more UEs, such as UE 190, that are indirectly connected to one or more communication networks via one or more device-to-device (D2D) peer-to-peer (P2P) links. Figure 1In the example, UE 190 has: a D2D P2P link 192 with one of UEs 104 connected to one of base stations 102 (e.g., UE 190 can indirectly obtain cellular connectivity through this link); and a D2D P2P link 194 with a WLAN STA 152 connected to a WLAN AP 150 (UE 190 can indirectly obtain WLAN-based Internet connectivity through this link). In the example, D2D P2P links 192 and 194 can be provided by any known D2D RAT (such as LTE Direct (LTE-D), WiFi Direct (WiFi-D)). (etc.) support.

[0078] The wireless communication system 100 may also include a UE 104, which can communicate with the macro cell base station 102 via communication link 120 and / or with the mmW base station 102 via mmW communication link 120. For example, the macro cell base station 102 may support PCells and one or more SCells for the UE, and the mmW base station 102 may support one or more SCells for the UE.

[0079] Figure 2A An exemplary wireless network architecture 200 is illustrated. For example, NGC 210 (also referred to as "5GC") can be functionally considered to operate in concert to form the core network's control plane functions 214 (e.g., UE registration, authentication, network access, gateway selection, etc.) and user plane functions 212 (e.g., UE gateway functions, access to data networks, IP routing, etc.). User plane interface (NG-U) 213 and control plane interface (NG-C) 215 connect gNB 222 to NGC 210, specifically to control plane functions 214 and user plane functions 212. In an additional configuration, eNB 224 can also connect to NGC 210 via NG-C 215 to control plane function 214 and NG-U 213 to user plane function 212. Furthermore, eNB 224 can communicate directly with gNB 222 via backhaul connection 223. In some configurations, the new RAN 220 may have only one or more gNB 222s, while other configurations include one or more of eNB 224 and gNB 222. gNB 222 or eNB 224 can be used with UE 204 (e.g., Figure 1The location server 230 can communicate with any of the UEs depicted in the diagram. Another optional aspect may include one or more location servers 230a, 230b (sometimes collectively referred to as location server 230) (which may correspond to location server 172), which may communicate with control plane function 214 and user plane function 212 in NGC 210 respectively to provide location assistance to UE 204. Location server 230 may be implemented as multiple separate servers (e.g., physically separate servers, different software modules on a single server, different software modules distributed across multiple physical servers, etc.), or alternatively may each correspond to a single server. Location server 230 may be configured to support one or more location services for UE 204, which UE may connect to location server 230 via the core network, NGC 210, and / or via the Internet (not shown). Furthermore, location server 230 may be integrated into a component of the core network, or alternatively may be external to the core network, such as in RAN 220. Additionally, location server agents (LSS) (such as...) Figure 1 The LSS 117 shown may be located in RAN 220, for example, co-located with gNB 222, and may perform one or more location management functions.

[0080] Figure 2B Another exemplary wireless network architecture 250 is illustrated. For example, NGC 260 (also referred to as "5GC") can be functionally viewed as a user plane function provided by Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) 264, User Plane Function (UPF) 262, Session Management Function (SMF) 266, SLP 268, and LMF 270, which cooperate to form the core network (i.e., NGC 260). User plane interface 263 and control plane interface 265 connect ng-eNB 224 to NGC 260 and specifically to UPF 262 and AMF 264, respectively. In an additional configuration, gNB 222 can also connect to NGC 260 via control plane interface 265 to AMF 264 and user plane interface 263 to UPF 262. Furthermore, eNB 224 can communicate directly with gNB 222 via backhaul connection 223, with or without utilizing gNB direct connectivity to NGC 260. In some configurations, the new RAN 220 may have only one or more gNB 222s, while other configurations include one or more of ng-eNB 224 and gNB 222. The ng-gNB 222 or eNB 224 can be used with UE 204 (e.g., Figure 1 The base station of the new RAN 220 communicates with the AMF 264 via the N2 interface and with the UPF 262 via the N3 interface.

[0081] The AMF's functions include registration management, connection management, reachability management, mobility management, lawful interception, transmission of Session Management (SM) messages between UE 204 and SMF 266, transparent proxy service for routing SM messages, access authentication and access authorization, transmission of Short Message Service (SMS) messages between UE 204 and the Short Message Service Function (SMSF) (not shown), and Security Anchor Functionality (SEAF). The AMF also interacts with the Authentication Server Function (AUSF) (not shown) and UE 204, and receives intermediate keys established as a result of UE 204's authentication process. In the case of UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) Subscriber Identity Module (USIM)-based authentication, the AMF retrieves security material from the AUSSF. The AM's functions also include Security Context Management (SCM). The SCM receives keys from the SEAF, which are used to derive network-specific keys for access. The functionality of the AMF also includes location service management for regulatory services, transmission of location service messages between UE 204 and Location Management Function (LMF) 270 (which may correspond to location server 172) and between the new RAN 220 and LMF 270, Evolved Packet System (EPS) bearer identifier allocation for interoperability with EPS, and UE 204 mobility event notification. Additionally, the AMF supports functionality for non-3GPP access networks.

[0082] The functions of the UPF include acting as an anchor point for intra / inter-RAT mobility (where applicable), acting as an interconnection point for Protocol Data Unit (PDU) sessions with external data networks (not shown), providing packet routing and forwarding, packet inspection, user plane policy rule enforcement (e.g., gating, redirection, traffic guidance), lawful interception (user plane collection), traffic usage reporting, user plane Quality of Service (QoS) processing (e.g., UL / DL rate enforcement, reflective QoS marking in DL), UL traffic verification (SDF to QoS flow mapping), transport-level packet marking in UL and DL, DL packet buffering and DL data notification triggering, and issuing and forwarding one or more "end markers" to the source RAN node.

[0083] The functions of SMF 266 include session management, UE Internet Protocol (IP) address allocation and management, selection and control of user plane functions, service bootstrapping configuration at the UPF to route services to the correct destination, policy enforcement and QoS control, and downlink data notification. The interface on which SMF 266 communicates with AMF 264 is called the N11 interface.

[0084] Another optional aspect may include an LMF 270, a location server that can communicate with the NGC 260 to provide location assistance to the UE 204. The LMF 270 may be implemented as multiple separate servers (e.g., physically separate servers, different software modules on a single server, different software modules distributed across multiple physical servers, etc.), or alternatively, each may correspond to a single server. The LMF 270 may be configured to support one or more location services for the UE 204, which may connect to the LMF 270 via the core network, the NGC 260, and / or via the Internet (not shown).

[0085] Figure 3 Block diagram 300 shows base station 102 and UE 104, which can be... Figure 1 One of the base stations and one of the UEs. The base station 102 may be equipped with T antennas 334a to 334t, and the UE 104 may be equipped with R antennas 352a to 352r, wherein typically T ≥ 1 and R ≥ 1.

[0086] At base station 102, transmitting processor 320 can receive data for one or more UEs from data source 312, select one or more modulation and coding schemes (MCS) for each UE based at least in part on channel quality indicators (CQI) received from the UE, process the data for each UE (e.g., encode and modulate the data) based at least in part on the selected MCS(one or more) for the UE, and provide data symbols for all UEs. Transmitting processor 320 can also process system information (e.g., for semi-static resource partitioning information (SRPI), etc.) and control information (e.g., CQI requests, grants, upper-layer signaling, etc.) and provide overhead symbols and control symbols. Transmitting processor 320 can also generate reference symbols for reference signals (e.g., cell-specific reference signals (CRS)) and synchronization signals (e.g., primary synchronization signal (PSS) and secondary synchronization signal (SSS)). The transmit (TX) multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) processor 330 can perform spatial processing (e.g., precoding) on ​​data symbols, control symbols, overhead symbols, and / or reference symbols (if applicable), and can provide T output symbol streams to T modulators (MODs) 332a to 332t. Each modulator 332 can process its corresponding output symbol stream (e.g., for OFDM, etc.) to obtain an output sample stream. Each modulator 332 can further process the output sample stream (e.g., convert it to analog, amplify it, filter it, and up-convert it) to obtain a downlink signal. The T downlink signals from modulators 332a to 332t can be transmitted via T antennas 334a to 334t, respectively. Position coding can be used to generate synchronization signals to convey additional information, according to various aspects described in more detail below.

[0087] At UE 104, antennas 352a to 352r can receive downlink signals from base station 102 and / or other base stations, and can provide the received signals to demodulators (DEMODs) 354a to 354r respectively. Each demodulator 354 can adjust the received signal (e.g., filter, amplify, down-convert, and digitize it) to obtain an input sample. Each demodulator 354 can further process the input sample (e.g., for OFDM, etc.) to obtain the received symbols. MIMO detector 356 can obtain the received symbols from all R demodulators 354a to 354r, perform MIMO detection on the received symbols (if applicable), and provide the detected symbols. Receiver processor 358 can process the detected symbols (e.g., demodulate and decode them), provide the decoded data for UE 104 to data sink 360, and provide the decoded control information and system information to controller / processor 380. The channel processor can determine the Received Reference Signal Power (RSRP), Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI), Received Reference Signal Quality (RSRQ), Channel Quality Indicator (CQI), etc. In some aspects, one or more components of UE104 may be included in the housing.

[0088] On the uplink, at UE 104, the transmitting processor 364 can receive and process data from data source 362 and control information from controller / processor 380 (e.g., for reports including RSRP, RSSI, RSRQ, CQI, etc.). The transmitting processor 364 can also generate reference symbols for one or more reference signals. The symbols from the transmitting processor 364 can be pre-coded by the TX MIMO processor 366 (if applicable), further processed by modulators 354a to 354r (e.g., for DFT-s-OFDM, CP-OFDM, etc.) and transmitted to base station 102. At base station 102, uplink signals from UE 104 and other UEs can be received by antenna 334, processed by modulator 332, detected by MIMO detector 336 (if applicable), and further processed by receiving processor 338 to obtain decoded data and control information transmitted by UE 104. The receiver processor 338 can provide the decoded data to the data sink 339 and the decoded control information to the controller / processor 340. The base station 102 may include a communication unit 344 and communicate with a network controller (such as a location server 172) via the communication unit 344. The communication unit may include one or more intermediate elements. The location server 172 may include the communication unit 394, the controller / processor 390, and a memory 392.

[0089] The controller / processor 340 of base station 102, the controller / processor 380 of UE 104, the controller 390 of location server 172 (which may be location server 172) and / or Figure 3 Any other components(s) may perform one or more techniques associated with broadcasting location assistance data in different ways, as described in more detail elsewhere herein. For example, the controller / processor 380 of UE 104, the controller 390 of location server 172, the controller / processor 340 of base station 102, and / or Figure 3 Any other component(s) that can execute or direct, for example Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 The processes 1400, 1500, 1600, and 1700 and / or other processes as described herein. Memory 342, 382, ​​and 392 may store data and program code for base station 102, UE 104, and location server 172, respectively. In some aspects, memory 342 and / or memory 382 and / or memory 392 may include a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing one or more instructions for wireless communication. For example, one or more instructions may be executable or directive, when executed by one or more processors of UE 104, location server 172, and / or base station 102, for example... Figure 14 , Figure 15 , Figure 16 and Figure 17 The operation of processes 1400, 1500, 1600, and 1700 and / or other processes as described herein. Scheduler 346 can schedule the UE to transmit data on the downlink and / or uplink.

[0090] As indicated above, Figure 3 This is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from the one provided. Figure 3 Example of the description.

[0091] In certain embodiments, UE 104 may have circuitry and processing resources capable of acquiring location-related measurements (also referred to as location measurements) such as measurements for signals received from GPS or other satellite positioning systems (SPS), measurements for cellular transceivers such as base station 102, and / or measurements for local transceivers. UE 104 may also have circuitry and processing resources capable of calculating or estimating the location of UE 104 based on these location-related measurements. In some embodiments, the location-related measurements acquired by UE 104 may be passed to a location server, such as location server 172, location server 230a, 230b, or LMF 270, after which the location server may estimate or determine the location of UE 104 based on the measurements.

[0092] Location-related measurements obtained by UE 104 may include measurements of signals received from artificial satellites (SVs) that are part of an SPS or Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) such as GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, or BeiDou, and / or may include measurements of signals received from ground transmitters (e.g., base station 102 or other local transceivers) fixed at known locations. UE 104 or a separate location server (e.g., location server 172) may then use any of several positioning methods, such as GNSS, Auxiliary GNSS (A-GNSS), Advanced Forward Link Trilateral Measurement (AFLT), Observed Time Difference of Arrival (OTDOA), Enhanced Cell ID (ECID), TDOA, AoA, AoD, Multiple RTT, or combinations thereof, based on these location-related measurements to obtain a location estimate for UE 104. In some of these technologies (e.g., A-GNSS, AFLT, and OTDOA), at least in part, pilot signals, positioning reference signals (PRS), or other positioning-related signals transmitted by a transmitter or SV and received at UE 104 can be used by UE 104 to measure pseudorange or timing differences relative to three or more ground transmitters fixed at known locations, or relative to four or more SVs or combinations thereof with accurately known orbit data. Here, a location server such as location server 172, location server 230a, 230b, or LMF 270 may be able to provide positioning assistance data to UE 104, including, for example, information about the signals to be measured by UE 104 (e.g., expected signal timing, signal decoding, signal frequency, signal Doppler), the location and / or identifier of the ground transmitter, and / or signal, timing, and orbit information that enables GNSS SVs to facilitate positioning technologies such as A-GNSS, AFLT, OTDOA, TDOA, AoA, AoD, multiple RTT, and ECID. This enhancement may include improving the signal acquisition and measurement accuracy of UE 104 and / or, in some cases, enabling UE 104 to calculate its estimated location based on location measurements. For example, the location server may include an almanac (e.g., a Base Station Almanac (BSA)) indicating the location and identifiers of cellular transceivers and transmitters (e.g., base station 102) and / or local transceivers and transmitters in one or more specific areas, such as a specific location, and may also include information describing the signals transmitted by these transceivers and transmitters, such as signal power, signal timing, signal bandwidth, signal decoding, and / or signal frequency.In the case of ECID, UE 104 may obtain measurements of the signal strength of signals received from a cellular transceiver (e.g., base station 102) and / or a local transceiver (e.g., Received Signal Strength Indication (RSSI) or Reference Received Power (RSRP)) and / or may obtain the signal-to-noise ratio (S / N), Reference Received Quality (RSRQ), or the round-trip time (RTT) between UE 104 and the cellular transceiver (e.g., base station 102) or local transceiver. UE 104 may transmit these measurements to a location server to determine the location of UE 104, or in some implementations, UE 104 may use these measurements in conjunction with positioning assistance data received from the location server (e.g., terrestrial calendar data or GNSS SV data, such as GNSS calendar and / or GNSS ephemeris information) to determine the location of UE 104.

[0093] The location estimate of UE 104 may be referred to as location, location estimate, location positioning, position, location, location estimation, or location positioning, and may be geodetic, thereby providing UE 104 with location coordinates (e.g., latitude and longitude), which may or may not include an elevation component (e.g., height above sea level, above-ground or below-ground height, floor height, or basement height). Optionally, the location of UE 104 may be expressed as an urban location (e.g., expressed as a postal address or the name of a point or small area (such as a specific room or floor) within a building). The location of UE 104 may also include uncertainty, which can then be expressed as the area or space in which UE 104 is expected to be located (geographically or in terms of urban morphology) with a given or default probability or confidence level (e.g., 67% or 95%). The location of UE 104 may also be an absolute location (e.g., defined by latitude, longitude, and possibly by altitude and / or uncertainty), or it may be a relative location including, for example, distance and direction defined relative to an origin at a known absolute location, or relative to X, Y (and Z) coordinates. In the description contained herein, unless otherwise indicated, the use of the term location may include any of these variations. Measurements used to determine (e.g., calculate) the location estimate of UE 104 (e.g., obtained by UE 104 or by another entity such as base station 102) may be referred to as measurements, location measurements, location-related measurements, positioning measurements, or location measurements, and the act of determining the location of UE 104 may be referred to as the positioning of UE 104 or positioning UE 104.

[0094] Figure 4The structure of an exemplary subframe sequence 400 with a Positioning Reference Signal (PRS) timing according to various aspects of this disclosure is shown. Subframe sequence 400 can be adapted for broadcasting PRS signals from a base station (e.g., any base station described herein) or other network nodes. Subframe sequence 400 can be used in LTE systems, and the same or similar subframe sequences can be used in other communication technologies / protocols such as 5G and NR. Figure 4 In this representation, time is horizontally (e.g., on the X-axis) as time increases from left to right, while frequency is vertically (e.g., on the Y-axis) as frequency increases (or decreases) from bottom to top. Figure 4 As shown, downlink and uplink radio frames 410 can each have a duration of 10 milliseconds (ms). For downlink frequency division duplex (FDD) mode, in the example shown, radio frames 410 are organized into ten subframes 412, each with a duration of 1 ms. Each subframe 412 includes two time slots 414, each time slot having a duration of, for example, 0.5 ms.

[0095] In the frequency domain, the available bandwidth can be divided into evenly spaced orthogonal subcarriers 416 (also known as “frequency modulation” or “frequency bands”). For example, for a normal-length cyclic prefix (CP) using 15 kHz spacing, the subcarriers 416 can be grouped into groups of twelve (12) subcarriers. The resource of one OFDM symbol length in the time domain and one subcarrier (represented as a block of subframe 412) in the frequency domain is called a resource element (RE). Each group of 12 subcarriers 416 and 14 OFDM symbols is called a resource block (RB), and in the example above, the number of subcarriers in a resource block can be written as... For a given channel bandwidth, the number of available resource blocks on each channel 422 (also referred to as transmit bandwidth configuration 422) is indicated as follows: For example, for a 3MHz channel bandwidth in the example above, the number of available resource blocks on each channel 422 is determined by... Given. Note that the frequency components of a resource block (e.g., 12 subcarriers) are called a physical resource block (PRB).

[0096] Base stations can be based on and Figure 4 The frame configuration shown is similar or identical to the frame configuration used to transmit radio frames (e.g., radio frame 410) or other physical layer signaling sequences that support PRS signals (i.e., downlink (DL) PRS), which can be measured and used for UE (e.g., any UE described herein) location estimation. Other types of wireless nodes in the wireless communication network (e.g., distributed antenna systems (DAS), remote radio heads (RRH), UEs, APs, etc.) can also be configured to... Figure 4The PRS signal is sent in a similar (or identical) manner to that described in the text.

[0097] The set of resource elements used to transmit PRS signals is called a "PRS resource". The set of resource elements can span multiple PRBs in the frequency domain and N (e.g., one or more) consecutive symbols within time slot 414 in the time domain. For example, the shaded resource element in time slot 414 could be an example of two PRS resources. A "PRS resource set" is a group of PRS resources used for transmitting PRS signals, where each PRS resource has a PRS resource identifier (ID). Furthermore, PRS resources in a PRS resource set are associated with the same Transmitter-Receiver Point (TRP). The PRS resource ID in the PRS resource set is associated with a single beam transmitted from a single TRP (where a TRP can transmit one or more beams). Note that this has no effect on whether the UE knows the TRP and beam from which it transmits signals.

[0098] A PRS (Positioning Responsibility Response) can be transmitted in a specific positioning subframe grouped as a positioning timing. A PRS timing is an instance of a periodically repeating time window (e.g., consecutive time slots(s)) in which a PRS is expected to be transmitted. Each periodically repeating time window may include a set of one or more consecutive PRS timings. Each PRS timing may include N PRS A series of consecutive positioning subframes. The PRS positioning timing of the cells supported by the base station may occur periodically at intervals, which are determined by T. PRS Indicated by a millisecond or subframe. As an example, Figure 4 The periodicity of the positioning timing is shown, where N PRS It equals 4,418, and T PRS Greater than or equal to 20,420. In some aspects, T can be measured based on the number of subframes between the starting points of consecutive positioning moments. PRS Multiple PRS events can be associated with the same PRS resource configuration; in this case, each such event is referred to as a "PRS resource event," etc.

[0099] PRS can be transmitted at constant power. It can also be transmitted at zero power (e.g., silent). Silencing (disabling periodically scheduled PRS transmission) can be useful when PRS signals from different cells overlap due to occurring at the same or nearly the same time. In this case, PRS signals from some cells can be silenced, while PRS signals from other cells are transmitted (e.g., at constant power). Silencing can help the UE perform signal acquisition, time of arrival (TOA), and reference signal time difference (RSTD) measurements on non-silenced PRS signals (by avoiding interference from silenced PRS signals). For a specific cell, silence can be considered as not transmitting PRS at a given positioning time. A silent mode (also known as a silent sequence) can be signaled to the UE using a bit string (e.g., using the LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP)). For example, in a bit string signaling a silent mode, if the bit at position j is set to '0', the UE can infer that PRS is silent for the j-th positioning time.

[0100] To further improve the measurability of PRS, the positioning subframe can be a low-interference subframe transmitted in the absence of a user data channel. As a result, in an ideally synchronized network, the PRS may be interfered with by the PRS of other cells with the same PRS pattern index (i.e., the same frequency shift), rather than by data transmission interference. If no PRS ID is assigned, the frequency shift can be defined as a function of the PRS ID of the cell or other transmitting point (TP) (denoted as...). ), or a function defined as the Physical Cell Identifier (PCI) (denoted as This results in an effective frequency reuse factor of six (6).

[0101] To further improve the measurability of PRS (e.g., when PRS bandwidth is limited (such as only six resource blocks corresponding to a bandwidth of 1.4 MHz), the frequency band of consecutive PRS positioning opportunities (or consecutive PRS subframes) can be changed via frequency hopping in a known and predictable manner. Additionally, the cell supported by the base station can support more than one PRS configuration, where each PRS configuration may include different frequency shifts (vshifts), different carrier frequencies, different bandwidths, different code sequences, and / or different sequences of PRS positioning opportunities, each positioning opportunity having a specific number of subframes (NPRS) and a specific periodicity (TPRS). In some implementations, one or more of the PRS configurations supported in the cell can be used for directional PRS, and can then have additional different characteristics, such as different transmission directions, different horizontal angle ranges, and / or different vertical angle ranges.

[0102] The PRS configuration described above (including PRS transmission / silent scheduling) is signaled to the UE so that the UE can perform PRS location measurements. The UE is not expected to blindly perform PRS configuration checks.

[0103] Note that the terms “location reference signal” and “PRS” can sometimes refer to a specific reference signal used for positioning in an LTE / NR system. However, as used herein, unless otherwise indicated, the terms “location reference signal” and “PRS” refer to any type of reference signal intended for positioning. Downlink (DL) or sidelink (SL) signals whose primary purpose is not related to positioning (such as control or communication) are referred to herein as non-location reference signals (non-PRS). Examples of non-PRS include, but are not limited to, PHY channels such as SSB, TRS, CSI-RS, PDSCH, DM-RS, PDCCH, PSSCH, and PSCCH. Non-PRS signals, which are typically transmitted for purposes unrelated to positioning, can also be used by the UE for positioning purposes, for example, in hybrid positioning measurements, as discussed herein. Similar to the DL PRS transmitted by the base station discussed above, the UE can transmit UL PRS for positioning and UL or SL non-PRS that can be used for positioning. UL PRS can sometimes be a probe reference signal (SRS) for positioning.

[0104] Using DL PRS or non-PRS received from the base station or SL signaling from other UEs and / or ULPRS or non-PRS sent to the base station or SL sent to other UEs, the UE can perform various positioning measurements, such as Reference Signal Time Difference (RSTD) measurement for Time Difference of Arrival (TDOA) positioning technology, Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) measurement for TDOA, Angle of Departure (AoD), Angle of Arrival (AoA), and Round Trip Time (RTT) or Multi-Cell RTT (Multi-RTT) positioning technology, and Time Difference (Rx-Tx) between signal reception and transmission for Multi-RTT positioning technology, etc.

[0105] Various positioning technologies rely on DL, UL, or SL PRS, and they can also use DL, UL, or SL non-PRS. For example, positioning technologies using reference signals include downlink-based positioning, uplink-based positioning, and positioning based on a combination of downlink and uplink. For example, downlink-based positioning includes positioning methods such as DL-TDOA and DL-AoD. Uplink-based positioning includes positioning methods such as UL-TDOA and UL-AoA. Downlink and uplink-based positioning includes positioning methods such as RTT (multi-RTT) with one or more neighboring base stations. Other positioning methods exist, including those that do not rely on PRS. For example, Enhanced Cell ID (E-CID) is based on Radio Resource Management (RRM) measurements.

[0106] Currently, positioning assistance data for PRS beams includes the azimuth and elevation angles of each DL-PRS resource (beam), but does not provide any beamwidth information. Knowledge of the PRS beamwidth (along with other beam pattern information such as sidelobes or backlobes) can be used to assist in receiving DL PRS beams and can be used to adapt the UE Rx antenna for power saving purposes. For example, if the PRS beam is a wide-angle beam, a UE receiver with a single antenna is highly likely to achieve high-quality positioning measurements. Therefore, the UE can configure its receiver with a single Rx antenna (or a reduced number of Rx antennas) to save power.

[0107] As discussed above, multiple positioning methods are supported in 3GPP. In Release 16, auxiliary data from the network (e.g., location server 172) to UE 104 is provided within the NR Positioning Protocol (NRPP) of 3GPP 38.455 or the LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) of 3GPP 37.355. Several gNB-side angle estimation methods exist for positioning. For example, a downlink (DL) AoD-based method uses knowledge of the beamform of the Positioning Reference Symbol (PRS) beams transmitted by different gNBs and knowledge of the RSRP received at the UE with these PRSs to estimate the DL AoD. This estimation can occur on the network side (e.g., in location server 172 in "UE-assisted" mode, where the UE reports the measured RSRP). Alternatively, in "UE-based" mode, this estimation can occur at UE 104, which is informed of the beamform (including the AoD used with the PRS) (e.g., in the auxiliary data), and UE 104 determines the identifier of the received DL beam (from which the DL AoD can be determined) and can generate a position estimate. Currently, only the line-of-sight direction of the beam is indicated in the auxiliary data.

[0108] As another example, the uplink (UL) AoA-based method estimates the location of UE 105 via a gNB or network (e.g., location server 172) based on measurements of uplink transmissions (e.g., SRS) to the UE at base station 102. The base station reports its estimated AoA to location server 172, which can be reported in either a Global Coordinate System (GCS) or a Local Coordinate System (LCS). The reporting may differ for azimuth and elevation angles.

[0109] Figure 5The DL-AoD procedure 500 performed by UE 104 is illustrated by way of example. Base station 102 (which may be a gNB) transmits PRS resources in a beam-scanning manner, shown as beams 502, 504, and 506, labeled PRS#1, PRS#2, and PRS#3, respectively. UE 104 can measure the RSRP of each PRS resource (shown via PRS beams 502, 504, and 506) using a beam-shaped receive beam 512. The RSRP measured for each PRS beam 502, 504, and 506 is shown in corresponding figures 503, 505, and 507, where the height of the bar is proportional to the RSRP for each corresponding PRS beam. As shown, the PRS beam 506, which is most closely aligned with the line-of-sight (LOS) 510 between base station 102 and UE 104, has the largest RSRP. PRS beams 502 and 504 (PRS#1 and PRS#2) are not aligned with LOS 510, and therefore, relatively low RSRP is observed. In contrast, PRS beam 506 (PRS#3) is closely aligned with LOS 510, and relatively high RSRP is observed.

[0110] In UE-assisted mode, UE 104 reports the measured RSRP to location server 172 (e.g., location server 172) via the LPP protocol, where the corresponding AoD is estimated and the location of UE 104 is calculated. For example, based on the measured RSRP, the PRS resource most closely aligned with the LOS 510 to UE 104 can be determined. Location server 172 knows the directionality of each PRS source, and therefore, the orientation of UE 104 relative to base station 102 can be determined based on the orientation of the PRS resource with the highest RSRP. Additionally, the RSRP can be used to determine the range between UE 104 and base station 102. Thus, the orientation and distance relative to base station 102 can be determined, thereby providing an estimated location for UE 104.

[0111] In UE-based mode, UE 104 can use auxiliary data (including TRP geographic location and PRS beam information (e.g., beam azimuth and elevation angle)) provided by location server 172 to calculate the estimated location of UE 104.

[0112] Figure 6AThe UL-AoA process 600 performed by a single base station 102 is illustrated by way of example. The AoA measurement is generated by base station 102 using a directional antenna array (such as a phased array that generates several receive beams 610), which can be used to determine the direction from which signals (e.g., SRS signals) are transmitted from UE 104. For example, the receive beam 610 with the strongest signal from UE 105 may be aligned with the direction from which signals from UE 104 are transmitted. Figure 6A An AoA measurement 602 is shown, from which the UE 105 transmits signals (including uncertainty 603). When combined with distance estimation 604, for example, using RTT, a single base station 110 can use the AoA measurement to determine the location of the UE 105.

[0113] Figure 6B The UL-AoA process 650 performed by several base stations 102-1 and 102-2 is illustrated by way of example. As shown, the AoA measurements 651 and 652 determined by the respective base stations 102-1 and 102-2 intersect at the location of UE 105.

[0114] Figure 7 An example of a narrow beam generated by an mmW small cell antenna panel 702 is shown. The antenna panel 702 includes several individual antennas to which RF currents with the correct phase relationship are supplied from a transmitter, such that radio waves from the individual antennas are added together to increase radiation in a desired direction while canceling out radiation in an undesired direction to suppress radiation, thereby generating a beam. The beam can be steered to point in different directions, for example, by changing the azimuth and elevation angles, without moving the antenna panel 702. For example, Figure 7 An antenna panel 702 located at the center of a sphere 700 is shown, illustrating an azimuth angle from 0°, ±90° to 180° and an elevation angle from 0°, ±90° to 180°. The antenna panel 702 can be controlled to generate beams at various angles, shown as beams 704, 706, and 708. Typically, the antenna panel 702 can generate an azimuth span of 120° and an elevation span of 60°. The width of the generated beam can be reduced by increasing the number of individual antennas present in the antenna panel 702. Initial link acquisition is performed at the base station via beamforming transmission in the secondary synchronization block (SSB). Beam refinement outside the SSB phase is performed via Channel State Information Reference Signal (CSI-RS) or Sounding Reference Signal (SRS). These phases result in refined beams at both the base station and the user terminal.

[0115] Phased array beamforming over ultra-wide bandwidths (such as that used by antenna panel 702) may encounter signal direction changes / offsets, sometimes referred to as beam tilt. For example, beam tilt causes the beam direction to change according to the operating frequency. Additionally, the beam may encounter frequency-dependent distortion in its spatial behavior due to the antenna array housing (backplate, side frames, etc. made of plastic or metal), polarization mismatch, component pattern variations, small array size, calibration losses, etc. Furthermore, gain and directional distortion effects can affect the main lobe as well as side lobes, beam nulls, and grating lobes.

[0116] For example, Figure 8A and Figure 8B The array gain (in dB) as a function of angle and frequency is shown graphically for a 16x1 antenna array with an array spacing of d = λ / 2 at 57 GHz or 71 GHz. These fixed arrays are used in the 57 GHz to 71 GHz range. For example, in... Figure 8A and Figure 8B In the diagram, three separate curves are used to illustrate the array gain at frequencies from 57 GHz to 71 GHz. For example, curve 802 represents the array gain at 57 GHz, curve 804 represents the array gain at 61 GHz, and curve 806 represents the array gain at 71 GHz. In the case of a codebook of size 12, the antenna array can be considered to cover, for example, ±50° around the line of sight.

[0117] exist Figure 8A and Figure 8B The diagram illustrates the array gain performance with codebooks designed for 57 or 71 GHz, varying with frequency. As can be seen, for any antenna array design, the array gain is not well aligned spatially across frequencies from 57 GHz to 71 GHz, where 57 GHz is represented by the solid line 802, 61 GHz by the dashed line 804, and 71 GHz by the dashed line 806. If the array gain were perfectly aligned spatially, the peaks of curves 802, 804, and 806 would be aligned for all angles, but... Figure 8A and Figure 8B As can be seen, the peaks of curves 802, 804, and 806 are aligned at 0° and lose alignment at larger angles. In other words, the beam is not sufficiently frequency-dependent (regardless of the design). Different beam indices may work better at different carrier frequencies, especially near the edges of coverage (e.g., approximately ±50° in this example). Depending on the angle of interest, a beam from 57 GHz (curve 802) or 71 GHz (curve 806) may be better, and the gain difference may be significant, around 2 dB to 3 dB. At the center frequency f cAt fc=71GHz, a smaller codebook size may be sufficient to cover the same area as at fc=57GHz.

[0118] Therefore, as can be seen, the array gain distribution, as a function of spatial angle (beam pattern / shape), typically drifts with frequency due to beam tilt effects, which are caused by the use of fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array for the entire frequency distribution. For ultra-wideband coverage, such as between 57 GHz and 71 GHz, the beam tilt effect on the array gain distribution is significant, and will be even more pronounced in coverage of frequency bands, such as the 52.6 GHz to 114.25 GHz band. Variations in the array gain distribution can include frequency-dependent distortion in spatial behavior, including the effects of antenna array housing (backplate, side frames, etc. made of plastic or metal), polarization mismatch, element pattern variations, small array size, calibration degradation, etc.

[0119] Beam tilt effects can negatively impact angle-dependent positioning measurements. For example, positioning using a fixed set of beam weights at a carrier frequency may correspond to a specific AoD or AoA estimate at that frequency. However, the same set of beam weights (such as a codebook that doesn't change in FR4) corresponding to the combination of phase shifters and gain control required to steer the beam in a particular direction may correspond to different AoD or AoA estimates at different frequencies. If the same beam weights correspond to a good RSRP across frequencies, then AoD or AoA can be estimated differently depending on which frequency is used. For example, refer to... Figure 8A and Figure 8B It can be seen that the peaks of different frequencies (e.g., curves 802 and 806) are misaligned and indicate significantly different angles, especially at the edges of the coverage.

[0120] In one implementation, to compensate for the aforementioned impact on positioning, transmit (Tx) and / or receive (Rx) beam patterns or shapes (e.g., array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency) are transmitted to the auxiliary location estimation node in the network (e.g., for UE-based positioning as the UE, or for UE-assisted positioning as a location server). The frequencies of interest may be at least the active bandwidth portion (BWP) in the UE, a set of resource blocks (RBs), or a set of component carrier frequencies. The auxiliary location estimation node may be an LMF, eSMLC, location server agent (LSS) (a LMF-like function co-located with or embedded in a base station or RAN), or serving base station (e.g., the gNB / TRP with which the UE is communicating). For example, in some implementations, an LMF may exist in the core network, and an LSS may exist embedded in the RAN or base station, and the LMF may 'offload' positioning functionality to the LSS to varying degrees.

[0121] In ultra-wide bandwidth scenarios (e.g., 57 GHz to 71 GHz, or more, such as 52.6 GHz to 114.25 GHz as proposed for FR4), there will be a large amount of data required to transmit the array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency for the transmit (Tx) and / or receive (Rx) beam patterns or shapes (due to the presence of more sampling frequencies). Accordingly, this approach can lead to high overhead for ultra-wideband BWPs. Therefore, a low-overhead method may be desired for positioning by transmitting array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency for the transmit (Tx) and / or receive (Rx) beam patterns.

[0122] In one implementation, an array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency can be provided for the subbands of allocated bandwidth used by a base station for beamforming. For example, the array gain distribution variation can be provided as a function of a “chunk” on the active BWP used by the UE, which may be an ultra-wideband BWP. The “chunk” can be a subband with a certain a priori and appropriately configured size. For example, the configuration can be based on UE parameters (e.g., the data rate of the mobile device, the capabilities of the mobile device, and the size of the active BWP in the mobile device, etc.). For example, UE parameters can be provided by the UE to a location server or other network node, for example, in a capability response message. Furthermore, the size of the “chunk” can be dynamically selected over time; for example, the size of the frequency subband can vary over time (e.g., based on UE parameters).

[0123] In another implementation, an array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beamweights used for beamforming by one or more base stations can be provided as an aggregation or average of array gain distribution variations for multiple different subbands or blocks of allocated bandwidth for the base stations. For example, an aggregation of array gain distribution variations can be provided for multiple subbands spanning an active BWP (which may be an ultra-wideband BWP) of UE 104. In one example, the aggregation of array gain distribution variations can be a weighted average of array gain distribution variations for multiple different subbands. The weights used in the weighted average can be, for example, weights corresponding to the subband size.

[0124] In another implementation, an array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency may be provided for the beam weight set used for beamforming by one or more base stations, as multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to multiple different subbands for the allocated bandwidth used by the base stations. For example, the multiple subbands may span the active BWP (which may be an ultra-wideband BWP) of UE 104.

[0125] In various embodiments, the type of array gain distribution variation used can be switched between positioning sessions or positioning measurements within a positioning session. For example, the first set of auxiliary data may include a first type of array gain distribution variation (e.g., any type discussed above), while the second set of auxiliary data may use a different type of array gain distribution variation.

[0126] The type of array gain distribution variation used can be weighed. For example, array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for a single subband, block, or multiple different subbands across the ultrawide bandwidth (BWP) may result in high signaling, ancillary data, and overhead, but better performance. In contrast, array gain distribution variation based on angle and frequency as an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple subbands may result in relatively poor performance, but with lower signaling, ancillary data, and overhead. The method used may depend on the UE 104's capabilities, its ability to process beam pattern signaling, and the ancillary data overhead. The method used may also depend on the signaling and / or latency requirements. For example, a low-latency method may use L1 / L2 signaling, which may not accommodate large payloads well, and therefore, a lower-overhead solution may be preferred; while L3 (RRC) signaling can tolerate higher overhead / payload. The method used may also depend on positioning accuracy requirements. Various methods can be used for both transmit (Tx) beam patterns (e.g., for DL ​​AoD measurements) and receive (Rx) beam patterns (e.g., for UL AoA measurements).

[0127] Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C Various types of array gain distribution variations as functions of angle and frequency are shown for the array gain distribution variation of the beam weight set used by the base station for beamforming. For example... Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C As shown, the allocated frequency (FR) for the base station is indicated by arrow 902. The active bandwidth portion (BWP) 904 for the UE 104 may be only a portion of the allocated frequency (FR) for the base station.

[0128] Figure 9AA type 910 of array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for a beam weight set used by a base station for beamforming is shown, wherein the array gain distribution variation 912 is provided as a single subband 914 for an allocated bandwidth 902 for the base station. The size of the subband 914 (e.g., the frequency range within the subband 914) can be configured based on mobile device parameters such as the UE's data rate, the UE's capabilities, and the active BWP size 904 in the UE. The size of the subband 914 can be dynamically selected, for example, varying across different instances of auxiliary data.

[0129] Figure 9B A type 920 of array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by a base station for beamforming is shown, wherein array gain distribution variation 922 is an aggregation (e.g., averaging) of array gain distribution variations for multiple different subbands 924A, 924B, 924C, 924D, and 924D (sometimes collectively referred to as subband 924) for an allocated bandwidth 902 for the base station (as indicated by arrow 922). For example, as shown, aggregation 922 of array gain distribution variations can be provided for multiple subbands 924 spanning an active BWP 904 (which may be an ultra-wideband BWP) of UE 104. For example, aggregation 922 of array gain distribution variations can be a weighted average of array gain distribution variations for multiple different subbands 924, wherein the weights used in the weighted average can be based on the size of the subband or other factors (such as the location of the subband 924 within the BWP 904).

[0130] Figure 9C A type 930 of array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for the beam weight set used by the base station for beamforming is shown, which can be provided as individual array gain distribution variations 932A, 932B, 932C, 932D, and 932E (sometimes referred to as array gain distribution variations 932) for multiple different subbands 934A, 934B, 934C, 934D, and 934E (sometimes collectively referred to as subband 934) for the allocated bandwidth 902 used by the base station. For example, as shown, individual array gain distribution variations 932 can be provided for multiple subbands 1132 spanning the active BWP 904 (which may be an ultra-wideband BWP) of UE 104.

[0131] Variations in the array gain distribution, as a function of angle and frequency, of the beam weight set used by the base station for beamforming can be used to correct AoD or AoA measurements generated by UE 104 or base station 102. For example, when UE 104 determines the received transmit (Tx) beam (e.g., as... Figure 5As shown, the angle of the transmit (Tx) beam can be adjusted according to the beam angle and frequency (as provided in the array gain distribution variation). Similarly, the angle of the receive (Rx) beam can be adjusted according to the beam angle and frequency (as provided in the array gain distribution variation). Figure 6A and Figure 6B As shown in the diagram. The adjustment of the beam angle (e.g., AoD or AoA) can be performed by the location server, or the UE can adjust the beam angle (e.g., for DL ​​AoD measurement) if the array gain distribution variation is provided to the UE 104.

[0132] For example, UE 104 may provide capability information to declare its capabilities associated with its ability to handle beam pattern auxiliary data burden on ultra-wideband (UWB) operations used for positioning applications. For example, UE 104 may indicate a capability for at least one of the following: a low burden associated with array gain distribution variation signaling on a small subband of the UWBWP, or a large burden associated with array gain distribution variation signaling on at least two subbands of the active BWP used by UE 104, which may span the entire active BWP of the UE or may be smaller than the entire active BWP of the UE. UE 104 may transmit this capability to base station 102 or a network node (e.g., location server 172) associated with positioning estimation. The network node for auxiliary positioning estimation may be an LMF, eSMLC, LSS, or the serving base station with which UE 104 is communicating.

[0133] Network nodes that assist in location estimation can generate DL AoD estimates and UE location estimates based on UE-side measurements and base station transmitted (Tx) beamform information provided by the UE (i.e., changes in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by one or more base stations for beamforming).

[0134] Network nodes that assist in location estimation can generate an estimate of UL AoA and the location of the UE based on UE-side transmitted (e.g., SRS signals) measurement and received (Rx) beamform information performed by one or more base stations (i.e., the change in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for the set of beam weights used for beamforming by one or more base stations).

[0135] As discussed above, array gain distribution variation (a function of angle and frequency) is used because, for example, due to the use of a fixed inter-element spacing between antenna elements in the antenna array, the array gain distribution variation changes with the carrier frequency, which can lead to beam tilt. Array gain distribution variation can incorporate frequency-dependent distortions in spatial behavior, including the effects of housing, polarization mismatch, element pattern variations, small array size, calibration impairment, etc. Furthermore, array gain distribution variation may correspond to gain and directional information of at least one of the following: main lobe, sidelobes, beam nulls, and grating lobes for one or more base stations.

[0136] The auxiliary data provided to the UE for array gain distribution variations with low overhead can be a subband of the ultra-wideband BWP. For example, this subband can have a certain a priori and appropriately configured size, which can be configured based on UE conditions or parameters (such as data rate, capability, BWP size, etc.). Furthermore, the subband can be dynamically selected over time and can have different sizes.

[0137] The auxiliary data provided to the UE for array gain distribution variations with low overhead can be aggregated or averaged array gain distribution variations for several subbands on the UE's active BWP. For example, the aggregation can be a subset of subbands spanning the UE's active BWP, and therefore, the aggregation can include the full span of the active BWP or less. Additionally, the aggregation can be generated using a weighted average with weights corresponding to the subband size.

[0138] Additionally, the UE can switch between the types of array gain distribution variations used (e.g., received in auxiliary data) based on at least one of signaling type and / or delay requirements and positioning accuracy requirements.

[0139] Figure 10 An example of signaling flow 1000 is shown by way of illustration, which illustrates the signaling flow during a location session. Figure 1 Various messages are sent between components of the communication system 100 depicted herein, wherein array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency are provided for a beam weight set used by a base station for beamforming to support positioning. Figure 10The diagram illustrates UE 104, serving base station 102, and location server 172. Base station 102 may be a gNB, ng-eNB, or eNB, and is capable of beamforming over ultra-wide bandwidth to obtain transmit (Tx) and / or receive (Rx) beams. Location server 172 may be, for example, an LMF270 or SLP 268, and an eSMLC, LSS, or location-related entity, which may be co-located with base station 102 or RAN or may be located in (or outside) the core network or serving base station 102. In implementations where the LSS or other network entity with similar LMF functionality is co-located with or embedded in base station 102 or RAN, portions of signaling may be sent to different entities; for example, the LMF may generate auxiliary data, while the LSS may generate location estimates. It should be understood that UE 104 communicates with location server 172 through serving base station 102 and one or more intermediate components in the core network (e.g., AMF 264 or UPF 262). In signaling flow 1000, it may be assumed that UE 104 and location server 172 communicate using the aforementioned LPP positioning protocol, but other protocols may also be used. Signaling flow 1000 may be performed in the control plane or the user plane. The messages shown in signaling flow 1000 are provided for illustrative purposes, and additional messages and actions may be included in the positioning session between the shown entities and / or entities not shown.

[0140] At phase 1, location server 172 may send a capability provision request to UE 104, requesting UE 104 to provide its positioning capabilities.

[0141] At phase 2, UE 104 may send a capability response message to location server 172, which provides location-related capabilities of UE 104, such as the types of positioning measurements UE 104 can generate and the types of auxiliary data UE 104 can receive. For example, UE 104 may indicate its ability to perform UE-assisted or UE-based positioning, or that UE 104 can perform angle-based positioning measurements using ultra-wide bandwidth. UE 104 may indicate its ability to receive auxiliary data, including: variations in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a beam weight set used by one or more base stations for beamforming, and associated overhead.

[0142] At stage 3, location server 172 may send information request messages to base station 102 and other base stations (not shown). The information request may request location-related information from base station 102 (such as the location of base station 102, the orientation of base station 102) and beam-related configuration parameters generated by the base station (such as directional SS blocks, for example, the mapping of beam identifiers to spatial angles (azimuth and elevation) relative to the base station).

[0143] At phase 4, base station 102 may send an information response message to location server 172, which includes requested location-related information (e.g., location, orientation) and signal characteristics, beam angles, and other configuration information (such as a mapping from beam identifiers to spatial angles (azimuth and elevation) relative to the base station) for each SS block supported by the base station. Base station 102 may provide array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency on the allocated frequencies for the base station. Since the array gain distribution variations are due to the fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array allocated for the entire frequency range, as well as the effects of the antenna array housing (backplate, side frames, etc., made of plastic or metal), etc., the array gain distribution variations are at least semi-persistent. Communication between base station 102 and location server 172 is generally unaffected by the burden limitations found in communication with UE 104, and therefore, base station 102 may provide array gain distribution variations on the entire allocated frequency range for the base station without needing to limit the array gain distribution variations to a limited number of subbands or subband aggregations.

[0144] At stage 5, location server 172 may, for example, generate auxiliary data for UE 104 based on information responses from base station 102 and the capabilities of UE 104. For example, location server 172 may generate auxiliary data including array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by base station 102 for beamforming. These array gain distribution variations may be provided as a single subband for allocated bandwidth for the base station, or as an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple subbands, or as individual array gain distribution variations for multiple subbands, for example, as referenced. Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C The auxiliary data may include additional information, such as the location of base station 102 and other beam configuration information that can be used to receive DL positioning signals. For example, the auxiliary data may include a mapping of beam identifiers to nominal departure angles (AoD), azimuth and elevation angles of each beam (which may be provided with reference to an absolute coordinate system (such as a global coordinate system (GCS)) or a local coordinate system (LCS) (e.g., relative to antenna direction)), and may provide antenna direction. The auxiliary data may also include beamwidth information, such as one or more of the following: beamwidth, line-of-sight direction uncertainty, beamwidth uncertainty, sidelobe and / or backlobe power levels, sidelobe and / or backlobe power levels, sidelobe and / or backlobe angles, or combinations thereof. Location server 172 may generate auxiliary data with different types of array gain distribution variations, for example, based on signaling type, latency requirements, and positioning accuracy requirements, and may switch the type of array gain distribution variation sent to UE 104 for different instances of auxiliary data generated and sent to UE 104 in a positioning session or for different positioning sessions.

[0145] At stage 6, location server 172 may provide auxiliary data to UE 104. For example, auxiliary data may be provided in a low-burden manner by using a limited number of subbands for array gain distribution variations and / or aggregating the array gain distribution variations, although including information for ultra-wide bandwidth operation. In implementations where the UE performs UE-assisted positioning or positioning is based on UL positioning measurements, it is not necessary to provide array gain distribution variations to UE 104.

[0146] At phase 7, location server 172 may send a request to UE 104 to provide location information, such as requesting DL positioning measurements (e.g., DL AD measurements) and / or location estimates based on DL positioning measurements from UE 104 for UE-assisted positioning or UE-based positioning, and / or location server 172 may instruct UE 104 to send UL SRS signals for UL-based or DL+UL-based positioning.

[0147] At stage 8, if UL measurement is desired, location server 172 may request UL measurement (e.g., UL AoA measurement) of SRS signals transmitted to the UE from one or more base stations.

[0148] At stage 9, if a DL positioning measurement is requested, base station 102 may, for example, use beamforming over an ultra-wide bandwidth to transmit a DL reference signal (such as a PRS), which can be received by UE 104.

[0149] At stage 10, if a UL positioning measurement is requested, UE 104 may transmit a UL reference signal (e.g., an SRS signal), which may be received by one or more base stations 102 using beamforming over an ultrawide bandwidth.

[0150] At stage 11a, if a DL reference signal is received in stage 9, UE 104 can generate an angle-related position measurement based on the DL reference signal. For example, UE 104 can determine, for instance, which beam from base station 102 is the optimal beam and the RSRP of that beam can be measured by monitoring the received signal strength of each beam, wherein the beam with the maximum signal strength is considered the optimal beam.

[0151] At stage 11b, if the UL reference signal is received at stage 10, the base station 102 can generate an angle-related position measurement based on the UL reference signal.

[0152] At optional stage 12, if a UE-based positioning request is made, and UE 104 receives an array gain distribution change, for example, in stage 6, UE 104 can determine the DL AoD measurement. For example, UE 104 can adjust the measured DL AoD of the DL beam based on the array gain distribution change received in stage 6. For example, UE 104 can determine the nominal AoD of the DL beam received in stage 11a, for example, based on auxiliary data in stage 6, and the corresponding frequency and angle in the array gain distribution change based on the frequency of the DL beam and the nominal AoD can be used to correct the nominal AoD to a more accurate AoD. For example, the array gain distribution change can indicate that the AoD should be reduced (or increased) by a specific amount at the frequency of the DL beam and for the AoD determined for the DL beam (from the auxiliary data). UE 104 can further generate a position estimate based on the determined AoD for the received beam, the RSRP measured in stage 11a, and the UE's position received in the auxiliary data in stage 6.

[0153] At stage 13, UE 104 may send a location information response message to location server 172, which may include a location measurement generated in stage 11a (which may be an identifier of the receiving beam) or a determined DLAoD (if generated in stage 12), and may additionally or alternatively include a location estimate (if determined in stage 12).

[0154] At stage 14, if present, base station 102 may provide location server 172 with the measured location information determined in stage 11b.

[0155] At stage 15, location server 172 may determine the UE location based on the received location information. For example, location server 172 may determine the DL AoD and / or UL AoA based on the identified transmit and / or receive beams and adjustments to the beam angles according to angle and frequency based on the array gain distribution changes received in stage 2. For example, location server 172 may determine the nominal DL AoD of the DL beam received by UE 104 (as reported in stage 13), and based on the frequency and nominal AoD of the DL beam, the corresponding frequency and angle in the array gain distribution changes can be used to correct the nominal AoD to a more accurate AoD. Similarly, location server 172 may determine the nominal UL AoA of the UL beam received by base station 102 (as reported in stage 14), and based on the frequency and nominal AoA of the UL beam, the corresponding frequency and angle in the array gain distribution changes for the base station can be used to correct the nominal AoA to a more accurate AoA. For example, variations in array gain distribution can indicate that at the beam frequency and for the beam-measured AoD or AoA, the measured AoD or AoA should be reduced (or increased) by a specific amount. Location server 172 can determine the location of UE 104 based on the determined DL AoD and / or UL AoA and the known location of base station 102. Location server 172 can provide the location of UE 104 to the requesting entity.

[0156] Figure 11 A schematic block diagram illustrating some exemplary features of UE 1100 is shown; for example, the UE may be capable of... Figure 1 The UE 104 shown herein supports positioning using beamforming and auxiliary data transmitted with ultra-wideband bandwidth. This auxiliary data includes array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by the base station for beamforming, as described herein. UE 1100 can perform... Figure 14The process flow shown herein and the algorithms described herein. UE 1100 may include, for example, one or more processors 1102; memory 1104; and an external interface (e.g., a wireless network interface) such as a transceiver 1110, which may be operatively coupled to a non-transitory computer-readable medium 1120 and memory 1104 via one or more connections 1106 (e.g., bus, line, fiber optic, link, etc.). UE 1100 may also include additional items not shown, such as a user interface that may include, for example, a display, keypad, or other input device (e.g., a virtual keypad on a display) through which a user interacts with the UE, or may include a satellite positioning system receiver. In some exemplary embodiments, all or part of UE 1100 may take the form of a chipset, etc. Transceiver 1110 may include, for example, a transmitter 1112 capable of transmitting one or more signals on one or more types of wireless communication networks and a receiver 1114 for receiving one or more signals transmitted on one or more types of wireless communication networks.

[0157] In some embodiments, UE 1100 may include an antenna 1111, which may be internal or external. The UE antenna 1111 can be used to transmit and / or receive signals processed by transceiver 1110. In some embodiments, the UE antenna 1111 may be coupled to transceiver 1110. The antenna 1111 may include more than one antenna element and is capable of dual polarization, MIMO capability, beamforming, beam steering, and beam tracking. In some embodiments, the antenna 1111 may include multiple panels, and each panel may include multiple antenna array elements. In some embodiments, measurements of signals received (transmitted) by UE 1100 may be performed at the connection point between the UE antenna 1111 and transceiver 1110. For example, a measurement reference point for measuring received (transmitted) RF signals may be an input (output) terminal of receiver 1114 (transmitter 1112) and an output (input) terminal of UE antenna 1111. In a UE 1100 having multiple UE antennas 1111 or an antenna array, the antenna connector can be considered as a virtual point representing the aggregated output (input) of the multiple UE antennas. In some embodiments, the UE 1100 can measure the received signal, including signal strength and TOA measurements, and the raw measurements can be processed by one or more processors 1102. For example, the UE 104 can measure the received signal strength of each transmitted beam to determine the optimal beam received by the UE 104. For example, the transmitted beam with the highest received signal strength relative to other beams can be considered the optimal beam, i.e., the beam pointing towards the UE 104. The UE 104 can use the antenna array to beamform the received beam, which can be similarly used to determine the optimal beam (e.g., using beamlocking or RxTx pairing). The use of the received beam can additionally provide information related to the angle of arrival of the transmitted beam, for example, based on the angle of arrival of the optimal received beam relative to the UE antenna array. The angle of arrival of the transmitted beam (which has a defined direction) can be used to determine the orientation of the UE 1100.

[0158] One or more processors 1102 can be implemented using a combination of hardware, firmware, and software. For example, one or more processors 1102 may be configured to perform the functions discussed herein by implementing one or more instructions or program code 1108 on a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as medium 1120 and / or memory 1104. In some embodiments, one or more processors 1102 may represent one or more circuits configured to perform at least a portion of a data signal calculation program or process relating to the operation of UE 1100.

[0159] Medium 1120 and / or memory 1104 may store instructions or program code 1108 containing executable code or software instructions that, when executed by one or more processors 1102, cause one or more processors 1102 to act as a dedicated computer programmed to perform the disclosed techniques. As shown in UE 1100, medium 1120 and / or memory 1104 may include one or more components or modules that may be implemented by one or more processors 1102 to perform the methods described herein. Although components or modules are shown as software in medium 1120 executable by one or more processors 1102, it should be understood that components or modules may be stored in memory 1104 or may be dedicated hardware in or outside of one or more processors 1102. Numerous software modules and data tables may reside in medium 1120 and / or memory 1104 and be utilized by one or more processors 1102 to manage the communications and functionality described herein. It should be understood that the organization of the contents of the medium 1120 and / or memory 1104 as shown in UE 1100 is merely exemplary, and thus the functionality of modules and / or data structures can be combined, separated, and / or structured in different ways, depending on the implementation of UE 1100.

[0160] Medium 1120 and / or memory 1104 may include a positioning session module 1122, which, when implemented by one or more processors 1102, configures one or more processors 1102 to participate in a positioning session with a serving base station and a location server via a wireless transceiver 1110, including: receiving a request for capability information and transmitting a response for capability information; receiving auxiliary data; receiving a request to provide location information; performing positioning measurements by receiving and measuring a DL reference signal; transmitting a UL reference signal; estimating location; and transmitting a response to provide location information (which may include positioning measurements and / or location estimation). As described herein, for example, one or more processors 1102 may be configured to transmit capability information (such as the ability to transmit and use auxiliary data, which includes frequency variations of array gain for beam weights used by at least one base station) and possibly associated parameters such as data rate, capability, and active bandwidth portion size via transceiver 1110. For example, one or more processors 1102 may be configured to receive auxiliary data for positioning via transceiver 1110, which may include variations in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming. One or more processors 1102 may be configured to receive a DL reference signal via transceiver 1110 and perform angle-based positioning measurements, such as measuring the received beam, DL AoD based on the optimal received beam, and measuring RSRP. As described herein, one or more processors 1102 may be further configured to determine a location estimate (e.g., using AoD technology) using location measurements such as those received in the auxiliary data and the known locations of one or more base stations. One or more processors 1102 may be further configured to transmit location information (e.g., measurements, DL-AOD measurements, and / or location estimates) via transceiver to network nodes (such as location servers).

[0161] Medium 1120 and / or memory 1104 may include an array gain distribution variation module 1124, which, when implemented by one or more processors 1102, configures one or more processors 1102 to receive, within auxiliary data, an array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming. The one or more processors 1102 may be configured to use the array gain distribution variation to correct DL AOD measurements (e.g., by correcting measurements based on angle and frequency).

[0162] Depending on the application, the methods described herein can be implemented in various ways. For example, these methods can be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof. In a hardware implementation, one or more processors 1102 may be implemented within one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, electronic devices, other electronic units designed to perform the functions described herein, or combinations thereof.

[0163] For firmware and / or software implementations, the methods can be implemented using modules (e.g., programs, functions, etc.) that perform the functions described herein. Any machine-readable medium that tangibly embodies the instructions can be used to implement the methods described herein. For example, software code can be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium 1120 or memory 1104 connected to and executed by one or more processors 1102. Memory can be implemented within one or more processors or outside one or more processors. As used herein, the term "memory" means any type of long-term, short-term, volatile, non-volatile, or other memory, and is not limited to any particular type of memory or a particular number of memories, or the type of medium on which memory is stored.

[0164] If implemented as firmware and / or software, this functionality can be stored as one or more instructions or program code 1108 on a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as medium 1120 and / or memory 1104. Examples include computer-readable media encoded with data structures and computer-readable media encoded with computer program 1108. For example, a non-transitory computer-readable medium including program code 1108 stored thereon may include program code 1108 for supporting positioning using array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency in a manner consistent with the disclosed embodiments. Non-transitory computer-readable medium 1120 includes a physical computer storage medium. The storage medium can be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer. For example, and not as a limitation, such non-transitory computer-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disc storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code 1108 in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer; as used herein, disks and optical discs include compact optical discs (CDs), laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile optical discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs, wherein disks typically reproduce data magnetically, while optical discs reproduce data optically by means of lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0165] In addition to being stored on the computer-readable medium 1120, instructions and / or data may also be provided as signals on a transmitting medium included in the communication apparatus. For example, the communication apparatus may include a transceiver 1110 having signals indicating instructions and data. The instructions and data are configured to cause one or more processors to perform the functions outlined in the claims. That is, the communication apparatus includes a transmitting medium having signals indicating information for performing the disclosed functions.

[0166] Memory 1104 can represent any data storage mechanism. Memory 1104 may include, for example, main memory and / or secondary memory. Main memory may include, for example, random access memory, read-only memory, etc. Although shown in this example as separate from one or more processors 1102, it should be understood that all or part of the main memory may be located within one or more processors 1102 or otherwise co-located / coupled with them. Secondary memory may include, for example, memory of the same or similar type as the main memory and / or one or more data storage devices or systems, such as, for example, disk drives, optical disk drives, tape drives, solid-state drives, etc.

[0167] In some embodiments, the auxiliary storage may operatively receive or be configured to couple to a non-transitory computer-readable medium 1120. Thus, in some exemplary embodiments, the methods and / or apparatus presented herein may take the form of all or part of a computer-readable medium 1120, which may include computer-implementable code 1108 stored thereon, which, if executed by one or more processors 1102, may be operatively capable of performing all or part of the exemplary operations described herein. The computer-readable medium 1120 may be part of a memory 1104.

[0168] Figure 12 A schematic block diagram illustrating some exemplary features of a location server 1200 (e.g., location server 172) is shown, which is capable of supporting UE localization using variations in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by a base station for beamforming, as described herein. Location server 1200 may be, for example, E-SMLC, SLP, LMF, LSS, etc. Location server 1200 can perform... Figure 15 and Figure 16The process flow shown herein and the algorithms described herein. Location server 1200 may include, for example, one or more processors 1202, memory 1204, and an external interface 1210 (e.g., a wired or wireless network interface to other network entities, such as core network entities and base stations), which may be operatively coupled to a non-transitory calculator-readable medium 1220 and memory 1204 via one or more connections 1206 (e.g., bus, line, fiber, link, etc.). Base station 1200 may also include additional items not shown, such as a user interface that may include, for example, a display, keypad, or other input devices (such as a virtual keypad on a display), through which a user can interact with the base station. In some exemplary embodiments, all or part of location server 1200 may take the form of a chipset, etc. External interface 1210 may be a wired or wireless interface capable of connecting to a base station or network entity (e.g., AMF, MME, or UPF) in the RAN.

[0169] One or more processors 1202 can be implemented using a combination of hardware, firmware, and software. For example, one or more processors 1202 may be configured to perform the functions discussed herein by implementing one or more instructions or program code 1208 on a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as medium 1220 and / or memory 1204. In some embodiments, one or more processors 1202 may represent one or more circuits configured to perform at least a portion of a data signal calculation program or process relating to the operation of location server 1200.

[0170] Medium 1220 and / or memory 1204 may store instructions or program code 1208 containing executable code or software instructions that, when executed by one or more processors 1202, cause one or more processors 1202 to act as a dedicated computer programmed to perform the disclosed techniques. As shown in location server 1200, medium 1220 and / or memory 1204 may include one or more components or modules that may be implemented by one or more processors 1202 to perform the methods described herein. Although components or modules are shown as software in medium 1220 executable by one or more processors 1202, it should be understood that components or modules may be stored in memory 1204 or may be dedicated hardware in or outside of one or more processors 1202. Numerous software modules and datasheets may reside in medium 1220 and / or memory 1204 and be utilized by one or more processors 1202 to manage the communications and functionality described herein. It should be understood that the organization of the contents of the medium 1220 and / or memory 1204 as shown in the location server 1200 is merely exemplary, and thus the functionality of the modules and / or data structures can be combined, separated, and / or structured in different ways, depending on the implementation of the location server 1200.

[0171] Medium 1220 and / or memory 1204 may include a positioning session module 1222, which, when implemented by one or more processors 1202, configures one or more processors 1202 to participate in a positioning session with the UE via an external interface 1210 through a serving base station, including: sending a request for capability information and receiving a response for capability information, generating and sending auxiliary data, sending a request to provide location information, receiving a response to provide location information from the UE, receiving location measurements from the base station, and estimating the UE's location. As described herein, for example, one or more processors 1202 may be configured to receive capability information (such as the UE's ability to send and use auxiliary data, including frequency variations of array gain for beam weights used by at least one base station) and possibly related parameters such as data rate, capability, and active bandwidth portion size from the UE via the external interface 1210. For example, the one or more processors 1202 may be configured to receive base station configuration information via the external interface 1210, including, for example, variations in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming. For example, one or more processors 1202 may be configured to generate auxiliary data based on base station configuration information, and may include, for example, different types of array gain distribution variations as functions of angle and frequency for a set of beamweights used by at least one base station in beamforming, based on UE parameters (such as data rate, capability, and active bandwidth portion size) and, for example, signaling type, latency requirements, and positioning accuracy requirements, as described herein. One or more processors 1202 may be further configured to transmit auxiliary data to the UE via an external interface 1210, which may include array gain distribution variations as functions of angle and frequency for a set of beamweights used by at least one base station in beamforming. One or more processors 1202 may be configured to receive location information (such as angle-based measurements or location estimates) from the UE and location measurements from one or more base stations via the external interface 1210. One or more processors 1202 may be configured to determine AoD and / or AoA measurements based on the received measurement information and base station configuration information. One or more processors 1202 may be further configured to determine a location estimate using location measurements (e.g., AoD and AoA measurements) and the known locations of one or more base stations.

[0172] The medium 1220 and / or memory 1204 may include an array gain distribution variation module 1224, which, when implemented by one or more processors 1202, configures the one or more processors 1202 to receive, for example, an array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming. The one or more processors 1202 may be configured to use the array gain distribution variation to correct DL AOD or UL AOA measurements (e.g., by correcting the measurements according to angle and frequency).

[0173] Depending on the application, the methods described herein can be implemented in various ways. For example, these methods can be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof. In a hardware implementation, one or more processors 1202 may be implemented within one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, electronic devices, other electronic units designed to perform the functions described herein, or combinations thereof.

[0174] For firmware and / or software implementations, the methods can be implemented using modules (e.g., programs, functions, etc.) that perform the functions described herein. Any machine-readable medium that tangibly embodies the instructions can be used to implement the methods described herein. For example, software code can be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium 1220 or memory 1204 connected to and executed by one or more processors 1202. Memory can be implemented within one or more processors or outside one or more processors. As used herein, the term "memory" means any type of long-term, short-term, volatile, non-volatile, or other memory, and is not limited to any particular type of memory or a particular number of memories, or the type of medium on which memory is stored.

[0175] If implemented in firmware and / or software, this functionality can be stored as one or more instructions or program code 1208 on a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as medium 1220 and / or memory 1204. Examples include computer-readable media encoded with data structures and computer-readable media encoded with computer program 1208. For example, a non-transitory computer-readable medium including program code 1208 stored thereon may include program code 1208 for supporting the positioning of the UE using variations in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by a base station for beamforming in a manner consistent with the disclosed embodiments. Non-transitory computer-readable medium 1220 includes physical computer storage medium. The storage medium can be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer. For example, without limitation, such non-transitory computer-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disc storage, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code 1208 in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer; as used herein, disks and optical discs include compact optical discs (CDs), laser discs, optical discs, digital versatile discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs, wherein disks typically reproduce data magnetically, while optical discs reproduce data optically by means of lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0176] In addition to being stored on the computer-readable medium 1220, instructions and / or data may also be provided as signals on a transmission medium included in the communication apparatus. For example, the communication apparatus may include a communication interface 1210 having signals indicating instructions and data. The instructions and data are configured to cause one or more processors to perform the functions outlined in the claims. That is, the communication apparatus includes a transmission medium having signals indicating information for performing the disclosed functions.

[0177] Memory 1204 can represent any data storage mechanism. Memory 1204 may include, for example, main memory and / or auxiliary memory. Main memory may include, for example, random access memory, read-only memory, etc. Although shown in this example as separate from one or more processors 1202, it should be understood that all or part of the main memory may be located within one or more processors 1202 or otherwise co-located / coupled with them. Auxiliary memory may include, for example, memory of the same or similar type as the main memory and / or one or more data storage devices or systems, such as, for example, disk drives, optical disk drives, tape drives, solid-state drives, etc.

[0178] In some embodiments, the auxiliary storage may operatively receive or be configured to couple to a non-transitory computer-readable medium 1220. Thus, in some exemplary embodiments, the methods and / or apparatus presented herein may take the form of all or part of a computer-readable medium 1220, which may include computer-implementable code 1208 stored thereon, which, if executed by one or more processors 1202, may be operatively capable of performing all or part of the exemplary operations described herein. The computer-readable medium 1220 may be part of memory 1204.

[0179] Figure 13 The diagram shows base station 1300 (e.g., Figure 1 A schematic block diagram of certain exemplary features of gNB 102 in this document is provided, which is capable of supporting UE localization using array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency for a beam weight set used for beamforming, as described herein. Base station 1300 may be an eNB or a gNB. Base station 1300 can perform... Figure 17 The process flow shown herein and the algorithms described herein. Base station 1300 may include, for example, one or more processors 1302; memory 1304; and an external interface that may include a transceiver 1310 (e.g., a wireless network interface) and a communication interface 1316 (e.g., a wired or wireless network interface directly or via one or more intermediate entities to other base stations and / or entities in the core network, such as location servers), which may be operatively coupled to a non-transitory computer-readable medium 1320 and memory 1304 via one or more connections 1306 (e.g., buses, lines, optical fibers, links, etc.). Base station 1300 may also include additional items not shown, such as a user interface that may include, for example, a display, keypad, or other input devices (such as a virtual keypad on a display), through which a user can interact with the base station. In some exemplary embodiments, all or part of base station 1300 may take the form of a chipset, etc. Transceiver 1310 may include, for example, a transmitter 1312 capable of transmitting one or more signals on one or more types of wireless communication networks and a receiver 1314 for receiving one or more signals transmitted on one or more types of wireless communication networks. Communication interface 1316 can be used to communicate with various entities (such as...) Figure 1 The AMF 154 or UPF 158 shown here connects to the wired or wireless interface of other base stations or network entities in the RAN (such as location servers, for example, LMF 152, SLP 162, ESMLC, LSS, etc.).

[0180] In some embodiments, base station 1300 may include antenna 1311, which may be internal or external. Antenna 1311 may be used to transmit and / or receive signals processed by transceiver 1310. In some embodiments, antenna 1311 may be coupled to transceiver 1310. In some embodiments, measurements of signals received (transmitted) by base station 1300 may be performed at the connection point between antenna 1311 and transceiver 1310. For example, a measurement reference point for measuring received (transmitted) RF signals may be an input (output) terminal of receiver 1314 (transmitter 1312) and an output (input) terminal of antenna 1311. In base station 1300 having multiple antennas 1311 or antenna arrays, antenna connectors may be considered as virtual points representing the aggregated outputs (inputs) of multiple antennas. For example, antenna 1311 is one or more antenna arrays capable of beamforming using beam weighting over an ultra-wide bandwidth to generate transmit (Tx) and / or receive (Rx) beams. In some embodiments, base station 1300 may measure received signals including signal strength and TOA measurement, and the raw measurements may be processed by one or more processors 1302.

[0181] One or more processors 1302 may be implemented using a combination of hardware, firmware, and software. For example, one or more processors 1302 may be configured to perform the functions discussed herein by implementing one or more instructions or program code 1308 on a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as medium 1320 and / or memory 1304. In some embodiments, one or more processors 1302 may represent one or more circuits configured to perform at least a portion of a data signal calculation program or process relating to the operation of base station 1300.

[0182] Medium 1320 and / or memory 1304 may store instructions or program code 1308 containing executable code or software instructions that, when executed by one or more processors 1302, cause one or more processors 1302 to act as a dedicated computer programmed to perform the disclosed techniques. As shown in base station 1300, medium 1320 and / or memory 1304 may include one or more components or modules that may be implemented by one or more processors 1302 to perform the methods described herein. Although components or modules are shown as software in medium 1320 executable by one or more processors 1302, it should be understood that components or modules may be stored in memory 1304 or may be dedicated hardware in or outside of one or more processors 1302. Numerous software modules and datasheets may reside in medium 1320 and / or memory 1304 and be utilized by one or more processors 1302 to manage the communications and functionality described herein. It should be understood that the organization of the contents of the medium 1320 and / or memory 1304 as shown in base station 1300 is merely exemplary, and thus the functionality of modules and / or data structures can be combined, separated, and / or structured in different ways, depending on the implementation of base station 1300.

[0183] Medium 1320 and / or memory 1304 may include a positioning session module 1322, which, when implemented by one or more processors 1302, configures one or more processors 1302 to conduct a positioning session with the UE and a positioning server, for example, via an external interface (transceiver 1310 and communication interface 1316). For example, one or more processors 1302 may be configured to transmit LPP positioning messages between the UE and the location server via the external interface. One or more processors 1302 may be further configured to provide base station configuration information to the location server via the communication interface 1316, including beam-related information such as array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming. One or more processors 1302 may be further configured to cause transceiver 1310 to transmit a DL reference signal to the UE and receive a UL reference signal from the UE, for example, using transmit (Tx) and receive (Rx) beams generated via beamforming. One or more processors 1302 may be configured to measure the UL reference signal and provide measurement information to the location server.

[0184] Medium 1320 and / or memory 1304 may include array gain distribution variation module 1324, which, when implemented by one or more processors 1302, configures one or more processors 1302 to obtain an array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used in beamforming, which may be stored in memory or determined based on the current antenna array configuration and the beam weights used in beamforming.

[0185] Depending on the application, the methods described herein can be implemented in various ways. For example, these methods can be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof. In a hardware implementation, one or more processors 1302 may be implemented within one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, electronic devices, other electronic units designed to perform the functions described herein, or combinations thereof.

[0186] For firmware and / or software implementations, the methods can be implemented using modules (e.g., programs, functions, etc.) that perform the functions described herein. Any machine-readable medium that tangibly embodies the instructions can be used to implement the methods described herein. For example, software code can be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium 1320 or memory 1304 connected to and executed by one or more processors 1302. Memory can be implemented within one or more processors or outside one or more processors. As used herein, the term "memory" means any type of long-term, short-term, volatile, non-volatile, or other memory, and is not limited to any particular type of memory or a particular number of memories, or the type of medium on which memory is stored.

[0187] If implemented in firmware and / or software, this functionality may be stored as one or more instructions or program code 1308 on a non-transitory computer-readable medium such as medium 1320 and / or memory 1304. Examples include computer-readable media encoded with data structures and computer-readable media encoded with computer program 1308. For example, a non-transitory computer-readable medium including program code 1308 stored thereon may include program code 1308 for supporting, in a manner consistent with the disclosed embodiments, the positioning of the UE using variations in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by a base station for beamforming. Non-transitory computer-readable medium 1320 includes a physical computer storage medium. The storage medium may be any available medium that can be accessed by a computer. For example, without limitation, such non-transitory computer-readable media may include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disc storage, disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code 1308 in the form of instructions or data structures and that can be accessed by a computer; as used herein, disks and optical discs include compact optical discs (CDs), laser optical discs, optical discs, digital versatile optical discs (DVDs), floppy disks, and Blu-ray discs, wherein disks typically reproduce data magnetically, while optical discs reproduce data optically by means of lasers. Combinations of the above should also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0188] In addition to being stored on the computer-readable medium 1320, instructions and / or data may also be provided as signals on a transmitting medium included in the communication apparatus. For example, the communication apparatus may include a transceiver 1310 having signals indicating instructions and data. The instructions and data are configured to cause one or more processors to perform the functions outlined in the claims. That is, the communication apparatus includes a transmitting medium having signals indicating information for performing the disclosed functions.

[0189] Memory 1304 can represent any data storage mechanism. Memory 1304 may include, for example, main memory and / or auxiliary memory. Main memory may include, for example, random access memory, read-only memory, etc. Although shown in this example as separate from one or more processors 1302, it should be understood that all or part of the main memory may be located within one or more processors 1302 or otherwise co-located / coupled with them. Auxiliary memory may include, for example, memory of the same or similar type as the main memory and / or one or more data storage devices or systems, such as, for example, disk drives, optical disk drives, tape drives, solid-state drives, etc.

[0190] In some embodiments, the auxiliary storage may operatively receive or be configured to couple to a non-transitory computer-readable medium 1320. Thus, in some exemplary embodiments, the methods and / or apparatus presented herein may take the form of all or part of a computer-readable medium 1320, which may include computer-implementable code 1308 stored thereon, which, if executed by one or more processors 1302, may be operatively capable of performing all or part of the exemplary operations described herein. The computer-readable medium 1320 may be part of memory 1304.

[0191] Figure 14 A flowchart is shown of an exemplary method 1400 for supporting the location of a mobile device in a wireless network, executed by a mobile device (e.g., UE 104) in a manner consistent with the disclosed implementation.

[0192] At box 1402, the mobile device receives auxiliary data for positioning, which includes variations in the array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used in beamforming by at least one base station, for example, as in Figure 10 Phases 5 and 6 and in Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C The components discussed herein, used for receiving auxiliary data for positioning (which includes variations in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming), may include, for example, a wireless transceiver 1110 and one or more processors 1102, which have dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1104 and / or medium 1120, such as Figure 11 The UE 1100 shown includes a positioning session module 1122 and an array gain distribution change module 1124.

[0193] At box 1404, the mobile device measures at least one angle-based positioning measurement of a reference signal received from the at least one base station based on the auxiliary data; and for example, as Figure 10 As discussed in stages 9 and 11a. For example, the at least one angle-based positioning measurement may be at least one downlink departure angle (AoD) measurement. Components for measuring the at least one angle-based positioning measurement based on the auxiliary data to measure the reference signal received from the at least one base station may include, for example, a wireless transceiver 1110 and one or more processors 1102, which have dedicated hardware or implement executable code or software instructions, such as..., in memory 1104 and / or medium 1120. Figure 11The location session module 1122 in the UE 1100 shown.

[0194] At box 1406, the mobile device generates location information based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement, for example, as in Figure 10 As discussed in stages 11a, 12, and 13. The components for generating location information based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement may include, for example, a wireless transceiver 1110 and one or more processors 1102, which have dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1104 and / or medium 1120, such as... Figure 11 The UE 1100 shown includes a positioning session module 1122 and an array gain distribution change module 1124.

[0195] In one implementation, the change in array gain distribution described by the variation in the auxiliary data is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array by the at least one base station for the entire frequency allocation. This variation in array gain distribution may include frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response. The variation in array gain distribution may correspond to the gain and directional information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobes, beam nulls, and grating lobes.

[0196] In one implementation, a mobile device can measure at least one angle-based positioning measurement of a reference signal received from at least one base station by determining at least one downlink (DL) departure angle (AOD) measurement for at least one positioning reference signal transmitted by at least one base station based on an array gain distribution variation for a beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming, for example, as in Figure 10 The components discussed in stages 11a, 12, and 13. For determining at least one downlink (DL) departure angle (AOD) measurement for at least one positioning reference signal transmitted by at least one base station based on the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by at least one base station in beamforming, the components may include, for example, a wireless transceiver 1110 and one or more processors 1102, which have dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1104 and / or medium 1120, such as... Figure 11 The UE 1100 shown includes a positioning session module 1122 and an array gain distribution change module 1124.

[0197] Location information may include at least one angle-based positioning measurement, a location estimate determined based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement, or a combination thereof. Mobile devices may send location information to network nodes, for example, as in... Figure 10As discussed in Phase 13. For example, a network node may be a base station or a location server, which may be, for example, a Location Management Function (LMF), an Evolved Serving Mobile Location Center (ESMLC), a Location Server Agent (LSS), or a serving base station. Components for transmitting location information to the network node may include, for example, a radio transceiver 1110 and one or more processors 1102, which have dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1104 and / or medium 1120, such as Figure 11 The UE 1100 shown includes a positioning session module 1122 and an array gain distribution change module 1124.

[0198] In one implementation, the mobile device may send capability information to a network node indicating its ability to communicate and use auxiliary data, which includes frequency variations of array gain for beam weights used by the at least one base station, such as... Figure 10 As discussed in Phase 2, the components for sending capability information to network nodes indicating the ability to transmit and use auxiliary data (including frequency variations for array gain of beam weights used by at least one base station) may include, for example, a wireless transceiver 1110 and one or more processors 1102, which have dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1104 and / or medium 1120, such as... Figure 11 The location session module 1122 in the UE 1100 shown.

[0199] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used in beamforming by at least one base station can be for sub-bands of allocated bandwidth, for example, such as Figure 10 Phase 5 and Figure 9A As discussed in [the document]. The size of the subband for allocating bandwidth can be configured based on at least one mobile device parameter. For example, the at least one mobile device parameter can be at least one of, for example, the mobile device's data rate, the mobile device's capabilities, and the size of the active bandwidth portion in the mobile device. The size of the subband can be dynamically selected.

[0200] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming can be an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different sub-bands with allocated bandwidth, for example, such as Figure 10 Phase 5 and Figure 9BAs discussed in [the document]. The multiple distinct subbands of the allocated bandwidth may span the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device. Aggregation of array gain distribution variations for the multiple distinct subbands of the allocated bandwidth may include a weighted average of the array gain distribution variations for the multiple distinct subbands. The weights in this weighted average may correspond to the size of the distinct subbands.

[0201] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming may include multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to multiple different sub-bands of allocated bandwidth, for example, such as Figure 10 Phase 5 and Figure 9C As discussed in [the document]. Multiple distinct subbands of this allocated bandwidth can span the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0202] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation as a function of frequency for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station is a first type of array gain distribution variation including one of the following: a single array gain distribution variation for a sub-band of the allocated bandwidth, an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different sub-bands of the allocated bandwidth, and multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to the multiple different sub-bands of the allocated bandwidth, for example, such as Figure 10 Phase 5 and Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C As discussed in [the document]. The mobile device may receive second auxiliary data for positioning, which includes a second type of array gain distribution variation, wherein this second type differs from the first type, for example, as [example data would be inserted here]. Figure 10 As discussed in phases 5 and 6. Components for receiving second auxiliary data for positioning (which includes a second type of array gain distribution variation, wherein the second type differs from the first type) may include, for example, a wireless transceiver 1110 and one or more processors 1102, which have dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1104 and / or medium 1120, such as... Figure 11 The UE 1100 shown includes a positioning session module 1122 and an array gain distribution variation module 1124. Second auxiliary data, including this second type of array gain distribution variation, can be received based on at least one of signaling type, latency requirements, and positioning accuracy requirements.

[0203] Figure 15 A flowchart is shown of an exemplary method 1500 for supporting the location of mobile devices, performed by a location server (such as location server 172, which may be an E-SMLC, SLP, LSS, LMF, or serving base station).

[0204] At box 1502, the location server obtains the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for the set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming, for example, as Figure 10 As discussed in Phase 4. Components for obtaining a variation in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used in beamforming by at least one base station may include, for example, an external interface 1210 and one or more processors 1202, which have dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1204 and / or medium 1220, such as... Figure 12 The location server 1200 shown includes a location session module 1222 and an array gain distribution change module 1224.

[0205] At box 1504, the location server receives at least one angle-based positioning measurement for the mobile device from at least one network node, for example, such as Figure 10 As discussed in phases 13 and 14. Components for receiving at least one angle-based positioning measurement for the mobile device from at least one network node may include, for example, an external interface 1210 and one or more processors 1202, which have dedicated hardware or implement executable code or software instructions, such as..., in memory 1204 and / or medium 1220. Figure 12 The location session module 1222 in the location server 1200 shown.

[0206] At box 1506, the location server determines the location estimate of the mobile device based on the at least one angle-based positioning measurement and the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station, for example, as Figure 10 As discussed in phase 15. Components for determining the location estimate of the mobile device based on the at least one angle-based positioning measurement and the variation in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station may include, for example, an external interface 1210 and one or more processors 1202, the one or more processors 1202 having dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1204 and / or medium 1220, such as... Figure 12 The location server 1200 shown includes a location session module 1222 and an array gain distribution change module 1224.

[0207] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array for the entire frequency distribution. This array gain distribution variation may include frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response. The array gain distribution variation may correspond to the gain and directional information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobes, beam nulls, and grating lobes.

[0208] In one implementation, at least one network node may include a mobile device, and the array gain distribution variation is for a transmitted beam pattern corresponding to at least one set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming, for example, as discussed at stages 2 and 13. The location server can determine the location estimate of the mobile device by: determining at least one downlink (DL) departure angle (AOD) measurement for the mobile device based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement received from the mobile device and the array gain distribution variation for the transmitted beam pattern corresponding to at least one set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming, for example, as... Figure 10 This is discussed in phase 15. Furthermore, the location server can estimate the location estimate, at least in part, based on DL AOD measurements, for example, as... Figure 10 The components discussed in phase 15. The components for determining a location estimate of a mobile device by determining at least one downlink (DL) departure angle (AOD) measurement for the mobile device based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement received from the mobile device and the array gain distribution variation of the transmitted beam pattern corresponding to at least one set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming, and the components for estimating the location estimate based at least partially on the DL AOD measurement, may include, for example, an external interface 1210 and one or more processors 1202 having dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1204 and / or medium 1220, such as... Figure 12 The location server 1200 shown includes a location session module 1222 and an array gain distribution change module 1224.

[0209] In one implementation, at least one network node may be at least one base station, and the array gain distribution variation is for a received beam pattern corresponding to at least one set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming, for example, as discussed at stages 2 and 14. The location server can determine the location estimate of the mobile device by: determining at least one uplink (UL) angle of arrival (AOA) measurement for the mobile device based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement received from at least one base station and the array gain distribution variation for the received beam pattern corresponding to at least one set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming, for example, as... Figure 10 This is discussed in phase 15. Furthermore, the location server can estimate the location estimate, at least in part, based on ULAOA measurements, for example, as... Figure 10 The components discussed in phase 15. The components for determining a location estimate of a mobile device by determining at least one uplink (UL) angle of arrival (AOA) measurement for the mobile device based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement received from at least one base station and an array gain distribution variation for a received beam pattern corresponding to at least one set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming, and the components for estimating the location estimate based at least partially on the UL AOA measurement, may include, for example, an external interface 1210 and one or more processors 1202 having dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1204 and / or medium 1220, such as... Figure 12 The location server 1200 shown includes a location session module 1222 and an array gain distribution change module 1224.

[0210] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used in beamforming by at least one base station can be for sub-bands of allocated bandwidth, for example, such as Figure 10 Phase 5 and Figure 9A As discussed in [the document], the size of the subband for allocating bandwidth is configured based on at least one mobile device parameter. For example, this at least one mobile device parameter may be, for example, at least one of the mobile device's data rate, the mobile device's capabilities, and the size of the active bandwidth portion within the mobile device. The size of the subband is dynamically selected.

[0211] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming can be an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different sub-bands with allocated bandwidth, for example, such as Figure 10 Phase 5 and Figure 9BAs discussed in [the document]. The multiple distinct subbands of the allocated bandwidth may span the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device. Aggregation of array gain distribution variations for the multiple distinct subbands of the allocated bandwidth may include a weighted average of the array gain distribution variations for the multiple distinct subbands. The weights in this weighted average may correspond to the size of the distinct subbands.

[0212] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming may include multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to multiple different sub-bands of allocated bandwidth, for example, such as Figure 10 Phase 5 and Figure 9C As discussed in [the document]. Multiple distinct subbands of this allocated bandwidth can span the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0213] Figure 16 A flowchart is shown of an exemplary method 1600 for supporting the location of mobile devices, performed by a location server (such as location server 172, which may be an E-SMLC, SLP, LSS, LMF, or serving base station).

[0214] At box 1602, the location server obtains the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for the set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming, for example, as Figure 10 As discussed in Phase 4. Components for obtaining a variation in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used in beamforming by at least one base station may include, for example, an external interface 1210 and one or more processors 1202, which have dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1204 and / or medium 1220, such as... Figure 12 The location server 1200 shown includes a location session module 1222 and an array gain distribution change module 1224.

[0215] At box 1604, the location server prepares auxiliary data for positioning the mobile device based on the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming, for example, such as Figure 10 The components discussed in Phase 5. For preparing auxiliary data for positioning the mobile device based on array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming, the components may include, for example, an external interface 1210 and one or more processors 1202, which have dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1204 and / or medium 1220, such as... Figure 12 The location server 1200 shown includes a location session module 1222 and an array gain distribution change module 1224.

[0216] At box 1606, the location server sends auxiliary data for positioning to the mobile device. This auxiliary data has variations in the array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used in beamforming by at least one base station, for example, such as... Figure 10 As discussed in Phase 6, components for transmitting positioning auxiliary data (which has variations in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming) to the mobile device may include, for example, an external interface 1210 and one or more processors 1202, which have dedicated hardware or implement executable code or software instructions, such as in memory 1204 and / or medium 1220. Figure 12 The location session module 1222 in the location server 1200 shown.

[0217] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array for the entire frequency distribution. This array gain distribution variation may include frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response. The array gain distribution variation may correspond to the gain and directional information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobes, beam nulls, and grating lobes.

[0218] In one implementation, the location server receives capability information from the mobile device indicating the ability to use auxiliary data, which includes variations in the array gain distribution as a function of frequency, for example, such as... Figure 10 As discussed in Phase 2, components for receiving capability information from the mobile device indicating the ability to use auxiliary data (which includes array gain distribution variations as a function of frequency) may include, for example, an external interface 1210 and one or more processors 1202, which have dedicated hardware or implement executable code or software instructions, such as in memory 1204 and / or media 1220. Figure 12 The location session module 1222 in the location server 1200 shown.

[0219] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used in beamforming by at least one base station can be for sub-bands of allocated bandwidth, for example, such as Figure 10 Phase 5 and Figure 9AAs discussed in [the document], the size of the subband for allocating bandwidth is configured based on at least one mobile device parameter. For example, this at least one mobile device parameter may be, for example, at least one of the mobile device's data rate, the mobile device's capabilities, and the size of the active bandwidth portion within the mobile device. The size of the subband is dynamically selected.

[0220] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming can be an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different sub-bands with allocated bandwidth, for example, such as Figure 10 Phase 5 and Figure 9B As discussed in [the document]. The multiple distinct subbands of the allocated bandwidth may span the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device. Aggregation of array gain distribution variations for the multiple distinct subbands of the allocated bandwidth may include a weighted average of the array gain distribution variations for the multiple distinct subbands. The weights in this weighted average may correspond to the size of the distinct subbands.

[0221] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming may include multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to multiple different sub-bands of allocated bandwidth, for example, such as Figure 10 Phase 5 and Figure 9C As discussed in [the document]. Multiple distinct subbands of this allocated bandwidth can span the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0222] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation as a function of frequency for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station is a first type of array gain distribution variation including one of the following: a single array gain distribution variation for a sub-band of the allocated bandwidth, an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different sub-bands of the allocated bandwidth, and multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to the multiple different sub-bands of the allocated bandwidth, for example, such as Figure 10 Phase 5 and Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C As discussed in [the document], the location server can prepare second auxiliary data for positioning, which includes a second type of array gain distribution variation, wherein the second type differs from the first type, for example, as [example data would be inserted here]. Figure 10 This is discussed in Phase 5. Furthermore, the location server can send second auxiliary data to the mobile device, such as... Figure 10The components discussed in Phase 6, including those for preparing second auxiliary data for positioning (which includes a second type of array gain distribution variation, distinct from the first type) and for transmitting the second auxiliary data to the mobile device, may include, for example, an external interface 1210 and one or more processors 1202 having dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1204 and / or medium 1220, such as... Figure 12 The location server 1200 shown includes a location session module 1222 and an array gain distribution variation module 1224. Second auxiliary data, including this second type of array gain distribution variation, can be prepared based on at least one of signaling type, latency requirements, and positioning accuracy requirements.

[0223] Figure 17 A flowchart is shown of an exemplary method 1700 performed by a base station (e.g., base station 102) to support the location of a mobile device.

[0224] At box 1702, the base station obtains a variation in the array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming, for example, as Figure 10 As discussed in Phase 4. Components for obtaining the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming may include, for example, an external interface 1316 and one or more processors 1302, which have dedicated hardware or executable code or software instructions implemented in memory 1304 and / or medium 1320, such as... Figure 13 The base station 1300 shown includes a positioning session module 1322 and an array gain distribution change module 1324.

[0225] At box 1702, the base station sends to the location server a variation in the array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming, for example, such as Figure 10 The location server may include one of the following: Location Management Function (LMF), Evolved Services Mobile Location Center (ESMLC), or Location Server Agent (LSS). Components for sending to the location server changes in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming may include, for example, an external interface 1316 and one or more processors 1302, which have dedicated hardware or implement executable code or software instructions, such as..., in memory 1304 and / or medium 1320. Figure 13The positioning session module 1322 in the base station 1300 shown.

[0226] In one implementation, the array gain distribution variation is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array for the entire frequency distribution. This array gain distribution variation may include frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response. The array gain distribution variation may correspond to the gain and directional information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobes, beam nulls, and grating lobes.

[0227] Throughout this specification, references to "an example," "example," "some examples," or "exemplary implementation" mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that feature and / or example may be included in at least one feature and / or example of the claimed subject matter. Therefore, the phrases "in one example," "example," "some examples," or "some implementations," or other similar phrases appearing throughout this specification do not necessarily all refer to the same feature, example, and / or limitation. Furthermore, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic may be combined in one or more examples and / or features.

[0228] Some portions of the detailed description included herein are presented based on algorithms or symbolic representations of operations on binary digital signals stored in the memory of a particular device or dedicated computing device or platform. In the context of this particular specification, the term "specific device," etc., includes general-purpose computers once it is programmed to perform specific operations according to instructions from program software. Algorithm descriptions or symbolic representations are examples of techniques used by those skilled in the art of signal processing or related fields to convey the essence of their work to others skilled in the art. An algorithm herein and generally considered is a self-consistent sequence of operations or similar signal processing that leads to a desired result. In this context, operations or processing involve the physical manipulation of physical quantities. Typically, although not strictly necessary, such quantities may take the form of electrical or magnetic signals capable of being stored, transmitted, combined, compared, or otherwise manipulated. It has been shown that it is sometimes convenient, in principle for general reasons, to refer to such signals as bits, data, values, elements, symbols, characters, items, numbers, etc. However, it should be understood that all such terms or similar terms will be associated with appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels. Unless otherwise specified, it will be apparent from the discussion herein that, throughout this specification, the use of terms such as “processing,” “calculating,” “determining,” etc., refers to the actions or processes of a particular device (such as a dedicated computer, dedicated computing device, or similar dedicated electronic computing device). Therefore, in the context of this specification, a dedicated computer or similar dedicated electronic computing device is capable of manipulating or converting signals, typically represented as physical electronic or magnetic quantities in a memory, register, or other information storage device, a transmitting device, or a display device of the dedicated computer or similar dedicated electronic computing device.

[0229] In the foregoing detailed description, numerous specific details have been set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the claimed subject matter. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the claimed subject matter can be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, methods and apparatus known to those skilled in the art have not been described in detail to avoid obscuring the claimed subject matter.

[0230] As used herein, the terms “and,” “or,” and “and / or” can include, and are also contemplated, various meanings that depend at least in part on the context in which such terms are used. Generally, “or,” when used with a list of related terms (such as A, B, or C), is intended to mean A, B, and C (used herein in an inclusive sense) and A, B, or C (used herein in an exclusive sense). Additionally, the term “one or more,” as used herein, can be used to describe any feature, structure, or characteristic in the singular, or can be used to describe a plurality or some other combination of features, structures, or characteristics. However, it should be noted that this is merely an illustrative example, and the claimed subject matter is not limited to this example.

[0231] Although features currently considered exemplary have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various other modifications and equivalents may be made without departing from the claimed subject matter. Furthermore, numerous modifications may be made to adapt specific situations to the teachings of the claimed subject matter without departing from the central concepts described herein.

[0232] Implementation examples are described in the following numbered clauses:

[0233] 1. A method executed by a mobile device for supporting location of the mobile device in a wireless network, the method comprising:

[0234] Receive auxiliary data for positioning, the auxiliary data including array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming;

[0235] At least one angle-based positioning measurement based on the auxiliary data measured from the reference signal received from the at least one base station; and

[0236] Location information is generated based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement.

[0237] 2. The method according to Clause 1, wherein the change in array gain distribution described by the change in array gain distribution in the auxiliary data is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array by the at least one base station for the entire frequency allocation.

[0238] 3. The method according to any one of Clauses 1 to 2, wherein the array gain distribution variation includes frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response.

[0239] 4. The method according to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, wherein the array gain distribution variation corresponds to the gain and direction information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobe, beam null, and grating lobe.

[0240] 5. The method according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the at least one angle-based positioning measurement of the reference signal received from the at least one base station comprises determining at least one downlink (DL) departure angle (AOD) measurement for at least one positioning reference signal transmitted by the at least one base station based on the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming.

[0241] 6. The method according to any one of Clauses 1 to 5, wherein the location information includes one of the at least one angle-based positioning measurement, a location estimate determined based on the at least one angle-based positioning measurement, and a combination thereof, and the method further includes sending the location information to a network node.

[0242] 7. The method according to Clause 6, wherein the network node is a base station or a location server.

[0243] 8. The method according to Clause 7, wherein the location server includes one of a Location Management Function (LMF), an Evolved Serving Mobile Location Center (ESMLC), a Location Server Agent (LSS), or a Serving Base Station.

[0244] 9. The method according to any one of Clauses 1 to 8 further includes sending capability information to the network node indicating the ability to communicate and use auxiliary data, said auxiliary data including frequency variations of array gain for beam weights used by said at least one base station.

[0245] 10. The method according to any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the at least one angle-based positioning measurement includes at least one downlink departure angle measurement.

[0246] 11. The method according to any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming is for a sub-band of allocated bandwidth.

[0247] 12. The method according to any one of Clauses 11, wherein the size of the subband for which the bandwidth is allocated is configured based on at least one mobile device parameter.

[0248] 13. The method according to any one of Clause 12, wherein the at least one mobile device parameter includes at least one of the data rate of the mobile device, the capabilities of the mobile device, and the size of the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0249] 14. The method according to any one of Clause 12, wherein the size of the subband is dynamically selected.

[0250] 15. The method according to any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming is an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different subbands of allocated bandwidth.

[0251] 16. The method according to any one of Clauses 15, wherein the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth span an active bandwidth portion in the mobile device.

[0252] 17. The method according to any one of Clauses 15, wherein the aggregation of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth comprises a weighted average of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands.

[0253] 18. The method according to any one of Clause 17, wherein the weights in the weighted average correspond to the sizes of the different sub-bands.

[0254] 19. The method according to any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming includes multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to multiple different subbands of the allocated bandwidth.

[0255] 20. The method according to any one of Clauses 19, wherein the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth span an active bandwidth portion in the mobile device.

[0256] 21. The method according to any one of clauses 1 to 10, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station as a function of frequency is a first type of array gain distribution variation including one of the following: a single array gain distribution variation for a sub-band of allocated bandwidth, an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different sub-bands of the allocated bandwidth, and multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to the multiple different sub-bands of the allocated bandwidth, the method further comprising:

[0257] Receive second auxiliary data for positioning, the second auxiliary data including a second type of array gain distribution variation, wherein the second type is different from the first type.

[0258] 22. The method according to Clause 21, wherein the second auxiliary data of the array gain distribution variation of the second type is received based on at least one of signaling type, delay requirement and positioning accuracy requirement.

[0259] 23. A mobile device configured to support location of the mobile device in a wireless network, the mobile device comprising:

[0260] A wireless transceiver configured to conduct wireless communication in the wireless network;

[0261] At least one memory;

[0262] At least one processor, coupled to the wireless transceiver and the at least one memory, wherein the at least one processor is configured to:

[0263] The auxiliary data for positioning is received via the wireless transceiver, the auxiliary data including the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for the set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming;

[0264] At least one angle-based positioning measurement based on the auxiliary data measured from the reference signal received from the at least one base station; and

[0265] Location information is generated based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement.

[0266] 24. The mobile device according to Clause 23, wherein the change in array gain distribution described by the change in array gain distribution in the auxiliary data is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array by the at least one base station for the entire frequency allocation.

[0267] 25. The mobile device according to any one of Clauses 23 to 24, wherein the array gain distribution variation includes frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response.

[0268] 26. The mobile device according to any one of Clauses 23 to 25, wherein the array gain distribution variation corresponds to the gain and direction information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobe, beam null, and grating lobe.

[0269] 27. A mobile device according to any one of clauses 23 to 26, wherein the at least one processor is configured to measure the at least one angle-based positioning measurement of the reference signal received from the at least one base station by being configured to determine at least one downlink (DL) departure angle (AOD) measurement for at least one positioning reference signal transmitted by the at least one base station based on the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming.

[0270] 28. A mobile device according to any one of Clauses 23 to 27, wherein the location information includes one of the at least one angle-based positioning measurement, a location estimate determined based on the at least one angle-based positioning measurement, and a combination thereof, and the at least one processor is further configured to transmit the location information to a network node via the wireless transceiver.

[0271] 29. The mobile device as described in Clause 28, wherein the network node is a base station or a location server.

[0272] 30. The mobile device as described in Clause 29, wherein the location server includes one of a Location Management Function (LMF), an Evolved Serving Mobile Location Center (ESMLC), a Location Server Agent (LSS), or a Serving Base Station.

[0273] 31. The mobile device according to any one of clauses 23 to 30, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to send capability information to a network node indicating the ability to communicate and use auxiliary data, the auxiliary data including frequency variations of array gain for beam weights used by the at least one base station.

[0274] 32. The mobile device according to any one of Clauses 23 to 31, wherein the at least one angle-based positioning measurement includes at least one downlink departure angle measurement.

[0275] 33. The mobile device according to any one of clauses 23 to 32, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming is for a subband of allocated bandwidth.

[0276] 34. The mobile device according to any one of Clauses 33, wherein the size of the subband for which the allocated bandwidth is located is configured based on at least one mobile device parameter.

[0277] 35. The mobile device according to any one of Clause 34, wherein the at least one mobile device parameter includes at least one of the data rate of the mobile device, the capabilities of the mobile device, and the size of the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0278] 36. The mobile device according to any one of Clauses 34, wherein the size of the sub-band is dynamically selected.

[0279] 37. The mobile device according to any one of clauses 23 to 32, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming is an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different subbands of allocated bandwidth.

[0280] 38. The mobile device according to any one of Clauses 37, wherein the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth span the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0281] 39. The mobile device according to any one of Clauses 37, wherein the aggregation of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth comprises a weighted average of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands.

[0282] 40. The mobile device according to any one of Clause 39, wherein the weights in the weighted average correspond to the sizes of the different subbands.

[0283] 41. The mobile device according to any one of clauses 23 to 32, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming includes multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to multiple different subbands of the allocated bandwidth.

[0284] 42. The mobile device according to any one of Clauses 41, wherein the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth span the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0285] 43. A mobile device according to any one of clauses 23 to 32, wherein the array gain distribution variation as a function of frequency for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station is a first type of array gain distribution variation including one of the following: a single array gain distribution variation for a sub-band of allocated bandwidth, an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different sub-bands of the allocated bandwidth, and multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to the multiple different sub-bands of the allocated bandwidth, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to:

[0286] Receive second auxiliary data for positioning, the second auxiliary data including a second type of array gain distribution variation, wherein the second type is different from the first type.

[0287] 44. The mobile device as described in Clause 43, wherein the second auxiliary data, including the array gain distribution variation of the second type, is received based on at least one of signaling type, delay requirement, and positioning accuracy requirement.

[0288] 45. A method performed by a location server for supporting the location of a mobile device in a wireless network, the method comprising:

[0289] Obtain the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for the set of beam weights used in beamforming by at least one base station;

[0290] Receive at least one angle-based positioning measurement for the mobile device from at least one network node; and

[0291] The location estimate of the mobile device is determined based on the at least one angle-based positioning measurement and the change in array gain distribution as a function of angle and frequency for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station.

[0292] 46. ​​The method according to clause 45, wherein the change in array gain distribution described by the change in array gain distribution in the auxiliary data is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array by the at least one base station for the entire frequency allocation.

[0293] 47. The method according to any one of clauses 45 to 46, wherein the array gain distribution variation includes frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response.

[0294] 48. The method according to any one of clauses 45 to 47, wherein the array gain distribution variation corresponds to the gain and direction information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobe, beam null, and grating lobe.

[0295] 49. The method according to any one of Clauses 45 to 48, wherein the location server includes one of a Location Management Function (LMF), an Evolved Serving Mobile Location Center (ESMLC), a Location Server Agent (LSS), or a Serving Base Station.

[0296] 50. The method according to any one of clauses 45 to 49, wherein the at least one network node includes the mobile device, and the array gain distribution variation is for a transmit beam pattern corresponding to the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming, and wherein determining the location estimate of the mobile device includes:

[0297] Based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement received from the mobile device and the array gain distribution variation of the transmitted beam pattern corresponding to the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming, at least one downlink (DL) departure angle (AOD) measurement is performed for the mobile device, based on the positioning reference signal transmitted by the at least one base station; and

[0298] The location estimate is estimated at least in part based on the DL AOD measurement.

[0299] 51. The method according to any one of clauses 45 to 50, wherein the at least one network node comprises at least one base station, and the array gain distribution variation is for a received beam pattern corresponding to a set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming, and wherein determining the location estimate of the mobile device comprises:

[0300] Based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement received from the at least one base station and the array gain distribution variation of the received beam pattern corresponding to the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming, at least one uplink (DL) angle of arrival (AOA) measurement is determined for the mobile device, based on the probe reference signal transmitted by the mobile device; and

[0301] The location estimate is estimated at least in part based on the UL AOA measurement.

[0302] 52. The method according to any one of clauses 45 to 51, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming is for a sub-band of allocated bandwidth.

[0303] 53. The method according to any one of Clause 52, wherein the size of the subband for allocating bandwidth is configured based on at least one mobile device parameter.

[0304] 54. The method according to any one of Clause 52, wherein the at least one mobile device parameter includes at least one of the data rate of the mobile device, the capabilities of the mobile device, and the size of the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0305] 55. The method according to any one of Clause 52, wherein the size of the sub-band is dynamically selected.

[0306] 56. The method according to any one of clauses 45 to 51, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming is an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different subbands of allocated bandwidth.

[0307] 57. The method according to any one of Clauses 56, wherein the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth span an active bandwidth portion in the mobile device.

[0308] 58. The method according to any one of Clauses 56, wherein the aggregation of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth comprises a weighted average of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands.

[0309] 59. The method according to any one of Clauses 58, wherein the weights in the weighted average correspond to the sizes of the different subbands.

[0310] 60. The method according to any one of clauses 45 to 51, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming includes multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to multiple different subbands of allocated bandwidth.

[0311] 61. The method according to any one of Clauses 60, wherein the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth of the beam pattern spans an active bandwidth portion in the mobile device.

[0312] 62. A location server for supporting the location of mobile devices in a wireless network, comprising:

[0313] An external interface configured to communicate in the wireless network;

[0314] At least one memory;

[0315] At least one processor, coupled to the external interface and the at least one memory, wherein the at least one processor is configured to:

[0316] The array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency is obtained via the external interface for the beam weight set used by at least one base station in beamforming;

[0317] Receive at least one angle-based positioning measurement for the mobile device from at least one network node via the external interface; and

[0318] The location estimate of the mobile device is determined based on the at least one angle-based positioning measurement and the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station.

[0319] 63. The location server as described in Clause 62, wherein the change in array gain distribution described by the change in array gain distribution in the auxiliary data is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array by the at least one base station for the entire frequency allocation.

[0320] 64. The location server according to any one of clauses 62 to 63, wherein the array gain distribution variation includes frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response.

[0321] 65. A location server according to any one of clauses 62 to 64, wherein the array gain distribution variation corresponds to the gain and direction information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobe, beam null, and grating lobe.

[0322] 66. The location server according to any one of Clauses 62 to 65, wherein the location server includes one of a Location Management Function (LMF), an Evolved Serving Mobile Location Center (ESMLC), a Location Server Agent (LSS), or a Serving Base Station.

[0323] 67. A location server according to any one of clauses 62 to 66, wherein the at least one network node includes the mobile device, and the array gain distribution variation is for a transmit beam pattern corresponding to the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming, and wherein the at least one processor is configured to determine the location estimate of the mobile device by being configured to perform the following operations:

[0324] Based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement received from the mobile device and the array gain distribution variation of the transmitted beam pattern corresponding to the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming, at least one downlink (DL) departure angle (AOD) measurement is performed for the mobile device, based on the positioning reference signal transmitted by the at least one base station; and

[0325] The location estimate is estimated at least in part based on the DL AOD measurement.

[0326] 68. A location server according to any one of clauses 62 to 67, wherein the at least one network node includes the at least one base station, and the array gain distribution variation is for a received beam pattern corresponding to at least one set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming, and wherein the at least one processor is configured to determine the location estimate of the mobile device by being configured to perform the following operations:

[0327] Based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement received from the at least one base station and the array gain distribution variation of the received beam pattern corresponding to at least one set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming, at least one uplink (DL) angle of arrival (AOA) measurement is determined for the mobile device, based on the probe reference signal transmitted by the mobile device; and

[0328] The location estimate is estimated at least in part based on the UL AOA measurement.

[0329] 69. A location server according to any one of clauses 62 to 68, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming is for a subband of allocated bandwidth.

[0330] 70. The location server according to any one of Clause 69, wherein the size of the subband for allocated bandwidth is configured based on at least one mobile device parameter.

[0331] 71. A location server according to any one of Clause 69, wherein the at least one mobile device parameter includes at least one of the mobile device's data rate, the mobile device's capabilities, and the size of the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0332] 72. The location server according to any one of Clause 69, wherein the size of the subband is dynamically selected.

[0333] 73. A location server according to any one of clauses 62 to 68, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming is an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different subbands of allocated bandwidth.

[0334] 74. The location server according to any one of Clauses 73, wherein the plurality of different subbands of allocated bandwidth span the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0335] 75. The location server according to any one of Clauses 73, wherein the aggregation of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth comprises a weighted average of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands.

[0336] 76. The location server according to any one of Clauses 75, wherein the weights in the weighted average correspond to the sizes of the different subbands.

[0337] 77. A location server according to any one of clauses 62 to 68, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming includes multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to multiple different subbands of allocated bandwidth.

[0338] 78. The location server according to any one of Clauses 77, wherein the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth of the beam pattern spans the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0339] 79. A method performed by a location server for supporting the location of a mobile device in a wireless network, the method comprising:

[0340] Obtain the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used in beamforming by at least one base station;

[0341] Based on the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for the at least one set of beam weights used in beamforming by the at least one base station, auxiliary data for positioning the mobile device is prepared; and

[0342] The mobile device is sent auxiliary data for positioning, the auxiliary data having an array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming.

[0343] 80. The method according to Clause 79, wherein the change in array gain distribution described by the change in array gain distribution in the auxiliary data is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array by the at least one base station for the entire frequency allocation.

[0344] 81. The method according to any one of clauses 79 to 80, wherein the array gain distribution variation includes frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response.

[0345] 82. The method according to any one of clauses 79 to 81, wherein the array gain distribution variation corresponds to the gain and direction information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobe, beam null and grating lobe.

[0346] 83. The method according to any one of Clauses 79 to 82, wherein the location server includes one of a Location Management Function (LMF), an Evolved Serving Mobile Location Center (ESMLC), a Location Server Agent (LSS), or a Serving Base Station.

[0347] 84. The method according to any one of clauses 79 to 83 further includes receiving capability information from the mobile device indicating the ability to use auxiliary data, said auxiliary data including array gain distribution variations as a function of frequency.

[0348] 85. The method according to any one of clauses 79 to 84, wherein the array gain distribution variation in the auxiliary data is for a subband of allocated bandwidth.

[0349] 86. The method according to any one of Clauses 85, wherein the size of the subband for which the bandwidth is allocated is configured based on at least one mobile device parameter.

[0350] 87. The method according to any one of Clauses 86, wherein the at least one mobile device parameter includes at least one of the data rate of the mobile device, the capabilities of the mobile device, and the size of the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0351] 88. The method according to any one of Clauses 86, wherein the size of the sub-band is dynamically selected.

[0352] 89. The method according to any one of clauses 79 to 88, wherein the array gain distribution variation in the auxiliary data is an aggregation of array gain distribution variations of multiple different subbands with allocated bandwidth.

[0353] 90. The method according to any one of Clauses 89, wherein the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth span an active bandwidth portion in the mobile device.

[0354] 91. The method according to any one of Clauses 89, wherein the aggregation of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth comprises a weighted average of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands.

[0355] 92. The method according to any one of Clause 91, wherein the weights in the weighted average correspond to the sizes of the different subbands.

[0356] 93. The method according to any one of clauses 79 to 88, wherein the array gain distribution variation in the auxiliary data includes multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to multiple different subbands of allocated bandwidth.

[0357] 94. The method according to any one of Clauses 60, wherein the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth span an active bandwidth portion in the mobile device.

[0358] 95. The method according to any one of clauses 79 to 88, wherein the array gain distribution variation in the auxiliary data is a first type of array gain distribution variation including one of the following: sub-bands of allocated bandwidth, aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different sub-bands of said allocated bandwidth, and multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to the multiple different sub-bands of said allocated bandwidth, the method further comprising:

[0359] Prepare second auxiliary data for positioning, the second auxiliary data including a second type of array gain distribution variation, wherein the second type is different from the first type; and

[0360] The second auxiliary data is sent to the mobile device.

[0361] 96. The method according to Clause 95, wherein the second auxiliary data for the array gain distribution variation of the second type is prepared based on at least one of signaling type, delay requirement, and positioning accuracy requirement.

[0362] 97. A location server configured to support the location of mobile devices in a wireless network, comprising:

[0363] An external interface configured to communicate in the wireless network;

[0364] At least one memory;

[0365] At least one processor, coupled to the external interface and the at least one memory, wherein the at least one processor is configured to:

[0366] The array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency is obtained via the external interface for at least one set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming;

[0367] Based on the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used in beamforming by the at least one base station, auxiliary data for positioning the mobile device is prepared; and

[0368] The auxiliary data for positioning is sent to the mobile device via the external interface. The auxiliary data has an array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for the at least one set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming.

[0369] 98. The location server as described in Clause 97, wherein the change in array gain distribution described by the change in array gain distribution in the auxiliary data is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array by the at least one base station for the entire frequency allocation.

[0370] 99. A location server according to any one of Clauses 97 to 98, wherein the array gain distribution variation includes frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response.

[0371] 100. A location server according to any one of clauses 97 to 99, wherein the array gain distribution variation corresponds to the gain and direction information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobe, beam null, and grating lobe.

[0372] 101. A location server according to any one of Clauses 97 to 100, wherein the location server includes one of a Location Management Function (LMF), an Evolved Serving Mobile Location Center (ESMLC), a Location Server Agent (LSS), or a Serving Base Station.

[0373] 102. The location server according to any one of clauses 97 to 101, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to receive capability information from the mobile device indicating the ability to use auxiliary data, the auxiliary data including array gain distribution variations as a function of frequency.

[0374] 103. A location server according to any one of clauses 97 to 102, wherein the array gain distribution variation in the auxiliary data is for a subband of allocated bandwidth.

[0375] 104. The location server according to any one of Clauses 103, wherein the size of the subband for which bandwidth is allocated is configured based on at least one mobile device parameter.

[0376] 105. A location server according to any one of Clause 104, wherein the at least one mobile device parameter includes at least one of the mobile device's data rate, the mobile device's capabilities, and the size of the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0377] 106. The location server according to any one of Clauses 104, wherein the size of the subband is dynamically selected.

[0378] 107. A location server according to any one of clauses 97 to 102, wherein the array gain distribution variation in the auxiliary data is an aggregation of array gain distribution variations of multiple different subbands of allocated bandwidth.

[0379] 108. The location server according to any one of Clauses 107, wherein the plurality of different subbands of allocated bandwidth span the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0380] 109. The location server according to any one of Clauses 107, wherein the aggregation of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth comprises a weighted average of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands.

[0381] 110. The location server according to any one of Clauses 109, wherein the weights in the weighted average correspond to the sizes of the different subbands.

[0382] 111. A location server according to any one of clauses 97 to 102, wherein the array gain distribution variation in the auxiliary data includes multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to multiple different subbands of allocated bandwidth.

[0383] 112. The location server according to any one of Clauses 111, wherein the plurality of different subbands of allocated bandwidth span the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

[0384] 113. A location server according to any one of clauses 97 to 102, wherein the array gain distribution variation in the auxiliary data is a first type of array gain distribution variation including one of the following: subbands of allocated bandwidth, aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different subbands of said allocated bandwidth, and multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to the multiple different subbands of said allocated bandwidth, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to:

[0385] Prepare second auxiliary data for positioning, the second auxiliary data including a second type of array gain distribution variation, wherein the second type is different from the first type; and

[0386] The second auxiliary data is sent to the mobile device via the external interface.

[0387] 114. The location server as described in Clause 113, wherein the second auxiliary data, including the array gain distribution variation of the second type, is prepared based on at least one of signaling type, latency requirements, and positioning accuracy requirements.

[0388] 115. A method performed by a base station for supporting the location of a mobile device in a wireless network, the method comprising:

[0389] Obtain the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming; and

[0390] Send to the location server the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming.

[0391] 116. The method according to clause 115, wherein the change in array gain distribution described by the change in array gain distribution in the auxiliary data is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array by the at least one base station for the entire frequency allocation.

[0392] 117. The method according to any one of clauses 115 to 116, wherein the array gain distribution variation includes frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response.

[0393] 118. The method according to any one of clauses 115 to 117, wherein the array gain distribution variation corresponds to the gain and direction information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobe, beam null, and grating lobe.

[0394] 119. The method according to any one of Clauses 115 to 118, wherein the location server includes one of a Location Management Function (LMF), an Evolved Serving Mobile Location Center (ESMLC), a Location Server Agent (LSS), or a Serving Base Station.

[0395] 120. A base station configured to support the location of mobile devices in a wireless network, comprising:

[0396] An external interface configured to communicate with the wireless network;

[0397] At least one memory;

[0398] At least one processor, coupled to the external interface and the at least one memory, wherein the at least one processor is configured to:

[0399] Obtain the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming; and

[0400] The array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for at least one set of beam weights used by the base station in beamforming is sent to the location server via the external interface.

[0401] 121. The base station according to Clause 120, wherein the change in array gain distribution described by the change in array gain distribution in the auxiliary data is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array by the at least one base station for the entire frequency allocation.

[0402] 122. A base station according to any one of clauses 120 to 121, wherein the array gain distribution variation includes frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response.

[0403] 123. A base station according to any one of clauses 120 to 122, wherein the array gain distribution variation corresponds to the gain and direction information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobe, beam null, and grating lobe.

[0404] 124. The base station according to any one of Clauses 120 to 123, wherein the location server includes one of a Location Management Function (LMF), an Evolved Serving Mobile Location Center (ESMLC), a Location Server Agent (LSS), or a Serving Base Station.

[0405] Therefore, it is intended that the claimed subject matter is not limited to the specific examples disclosed, but rather that such claimed subject matter may also include all aspects falling within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method executed by a mobile device for supporting location of the mobile device in a wireless network, the method comprising: Receive auxiliary data for positioning, the auxiliary data including array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming; At least one angle-based positioning measurement is performed based on the auxiliary data and the reference signal received from the at least one base station. as well as Location information is generated based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the change in array gain distribution described by the change in array gain distribution in the auxiliary data is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array by the at least one base station for the entire frequency allocation.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the array gain distribution variation includes frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response.

4. The method according to claim 1, wherein the array gain distribution variation corresponds to the gain and direction information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobe, beam null, and grating lobe.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one angle-based positioning measurement of the reference signal received from the at least one base station comprises determining at least one downlink DL departure angle (AOD) measurement for at least one positioning reference signal transmitted by the at least one base station based on the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming.

6. The method of claim 1, wherein the location information includes one of the at least one angle-based positioning measurement, a location estimate determined based on the at least one angle-based positioning measurement, and a combination thereof, and the method further includes sending the location information to a network node.

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the network node is a base station or a location server.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the location server comprises one of a location management function (LMF), an evolved serving mobile location center (ESMLC), a location server proxy (LSS), or a serving base station.

9. The method of claim 1, further comprising sending capability information to a network node indicating the ability to communicate and use auxiliary data, said auxiliary data including frequency variations of the array gain for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the at least one angle-based positioning measurement includes at least one downlink departure angle measurement.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming is for subbands of allocated bandwidth.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the size of the subband for which bandwidth is allocated is configured based on at least one mobile device parameter.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the at least one mobile device parameter includes at least one of the mobile device's data rate, the mobile device's capabilities, and the size of the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

14. The method of claim 12, wherein the size of the subband is dynamically selected.

15. The method of claim 1, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming is an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different subbands of allocated bandwidth.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth span an active bandwidth portion in the mobile device.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the aggregation of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth comprises a weighted average of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the weights in the weighted average correspond to the sizes of the different subbands.

19. The method of claim 1, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming includes multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to multiple different subbands of allocated bandwidth.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth span an active bandwidth portion in the mobile device.

21. The method of claim 1, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station as a function of angle and frequency is a first type of array gain distribution variation including one of the following: a single array gain distribution variation for a sub-band of allocated bandwidth, an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different sub-bands of the allocated bandwidth, and multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to the multiple different sub-bands of the allocated bandwidth, the method further comprising: Receive second auxiliary data for positioning, the second auxiliary data including a second type of array gain distribution variation, wherein the second type is different from the first type.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the second auxiliary data of the second type of array gain distribution variation is received based on at least one of signaling type, delay requirement, and positioning accuracy requirement.

23. A mobile device configured to support location of the mobile device in a wireless network, the mobile device comprising: A wireless transceiver configured to conduct wireless communication in the wireless network; At least one memory; At least one processor, coupled to the wireless transceiver and the at least one memory, wherein the at least one processor is configured to: The auxiliary data for positioning is received via the wireless transceiver, the auxiliary data including the array gain distribution variation as a function of angle and frequency for the set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming; At least one angle-based positioning measurement is performed based on the auxiliary data and the reference signal received from the at least one base station. as well as Location information is generated based on at least one angle-based positioning measurement.

24. The mobile device of claim 23, wherein the change in array gain distribution described by the change in array gain distribution in the auxiliary data is due to the use of a fixed inter-antenna element spacing in the antenna array by the at least one base station for the entire frequency allocation.

25. The mobile device of claim 23, wherein the array gain distribution variation includes frequency and spatial distortion and attenuation in the array gain response.

26. The mobile device of claim 23, wherein the array gain distribution variation corresponds to the gain and direction information of at least one of the main lobe, side lobe, beam null, and grating lobe.

27. The mobile device according to claim 23, wherein, The at least one processor is configured to measure the at least one angle-based positioning measurement of the reference signal received from the at least one base station by determining at least one downlink DL departure angle (AOD) measurement for at least one positioning reference signal transmitted by the at least one base station based on the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming.

28. The mobile device of claim 23, wherein the location information includes one of the at least one angle-based positioning measurement, a location estimate determined based on the at least one angle-based positioning measurement, and a combination thereof, and the at least one processor is further configured to transmit the location information to a network node via the wireless transceiver.

29. The mobile device of claim 28, wherein the network node is a base station or a location server.

30. The mobile device of claim 29, wherein the location server comprises one of a location management function (LMF), an evolved servicing mobile location center (ESMLC), a location server proxy (LSS), or a serving base station.

31. The mobile device of claim 23, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to send capability information to a network node indicating the ability to communicate and use auxiliary data, the auxiliary data including frequency variations of the array gain for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station.

32. The mobile device of claim 23, wherein the at least one angle-based positioning measurement includes at least one downlink departure angle measurement.

33. The mobile device of claim 23, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming is for a subband of allocated bandwidth.

34. The mobile device of claim 33, wherein the size of the sub-band for which bandwidth is allocated is configured based on at least one mobile device parameter.

35. The mobile device of claim 34, wherein the at least one mobile device parameter includes at least one of the mobile device's data rate, the mobile device's capabilities, and the size of the active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

36. The mobile device of claim 34, wherein the size of the sub-band is dynamically selected.

37. The mobile device of claim 23, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the set of beam weights used by the at least one base station in beamforming is an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different subbands of allocated bandwidth.

38. The mobile device of claim 37, wherein the plurality of different subbands of allocated bandwidth span an active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

39. The mobile device of claim 37, wherein the aggregation of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands of the allocated bandwidth comprises a weighted average of the array gain distribution variations for the plurality of different subbands.

40. The mobile device of claim 39, wherein the weights in the weighted average correspond to the sizes of the different subbands.

41. The mobile device of claim 23, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station in beamforming includes multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to multiple different subbands of allocated bandwidth.

42. The mobile device of claim 41, wherein the plurality of different subbands of allocated bandwidth span an active bandwidth portion of the mobile device.

43. The mobile device of claim 23, wherein the array gain distribution variation for the beam weight set used by the at least one base station as a function of angle and frequency is a first type of array gain distribution variation including one of the following: a single array gain distribution variation for a sub-band of allocated bandwidth, an aggregation of array gain distribution variations for multiple different sub-bands of the allocated bandwidth, and multiple array gain distribution variations corresponding to the multiple different sub-bands of the allocated bandwidth, wherein the at least one processor is further configured to: Receive second auxiliary data for positioning, the second auxiliary data including a second type of array gain distribution variation, wherein the second type is different from the first type.

44. The mobile device of claim 43, wherein the second auxiliary data of the second type of array gain distribution variation is received based on at least one of signaling type, delay requirement, and positioning accuracy requirement.

45. A mobile device configured to support location of the mobile device in a wireless network, the mobile device comprising: A component for receiving auxiliary data for positioning, the auxiliary data including array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming; At least one angle-based positioning measurement component for measuring a reference signal received from at least one base station based on the auxiliary data; as well as A component for generating position information based on the at least one angle-based positioning measurement.

46. ​​A non-transitory storage medium including program code stored thereon, the program code being operable to configure at least one processor in a mobile device to support location of the mobile device in a wireless network, the non-transitory storage medium comprising: Program code for receiving auxiliary data for positioning, the auxiliary data including array gain distribution variations as a function of angle and frequency for a set of beam weights used by at least one base station in beamforming; Program code for at least one angle-based positioning measurement of a reference signal received from at least one base station based on the auxiliary data; as well as Program code for generating location information based on the at least one angle-based positioning measurement.

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