Method and apparatus for indicating positioning availability based on network congestion

Abstract

Techniques for controlling positioning services are provided. For example, an apparatus in a user equipment (UE) is provided. The apparatus comprises: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code that, when executed with the at least one processor, causes the apparatus to at least: receive a first message related to a degradation of a first positioning technique related to a positioning service; and controlling a positioning service based on the first message.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to wireless communication systems, and more particularly to wireless communication systems that allow for providing an indication of positioning availability actively or passively based on network congestion. More particularly, the present disclosure provides a method and apparatus for controlling positioning services. Background Art

[0002] Wireless communication systems are constantly evolving. Higher data rates and higher quality of service are required. Reliability requirements are increasing, and the ways and means to ensure reliable connections and data flows while keeping transmission delays to a minimum are constantly evolving.

[0003] Standardization bodies such as the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) are studying potential solutions for efficient operation of wireless communications in New Radio (NR) networks. The next generation of mobile wireless communications systems, 5G / NR, will support a diverse set of use cases and a diverse set of deployment scenarios. In addition to typical mobile broadband use cases, NR is also being developed to support machine type communications (MTC), ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLCC), sidelink device-to-device (D2D), and other use cases.

[0004] Positioning and location services have been the subject of LTE standardization. The goal is to meet regulatory requirements for emergency call location.

[0005] Use cases related to positioning in URLLC often require high integrity performance. Example use cases include vehicle-to-everything communications (V2X), autonomous driving, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) such as drones, eHealth, rail and maritime, emergency and mission critical. Integrity reporting can become critical in use cases where larger errors can lead to serious consequences, such as wrong legal decisions or incorrect fee calculations.

[0006] For positioning and location services, positioning integrity is considered as a measure of trust in the accuracy of location-related data and the ability to provide timely warnings based on assistance data provided by the network. In Release 17, the focus was on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) integrity. For Release 18, other positioning technologies are considered, as well as related integrity aspects for critical mission use cases that rely on positioning estimates and corresponding uncertainty estimates. Integrity enables applications to make correct decisions based on the reported position, for example, when monitoring a robotic arm to decide whether its arm movements are within the allowed range to ensure a safe distance to people and other objects. Therefore, reliable mechanisms are needed to allow achieving positioning integrity and accuracy for positioning and location services. Summary of the invention

[0007] The present disclosure aims to provide a mechanism that helps achieve positioning integrity and accuracy of positioning and location services. A method and apparatus for controlling positioning and location services to improve integrity and accuracy are provided.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, a user device (e.g., user equipment (UE)) or an apparatus in such a user device is provided. The user device or apparatus according to the first aspect comprises at least one processor and at least one memory comprising computer program code. The computer program code, when executed using at least one processor, causes the apparatus or user device to: receive a first message related to degradation of a first positioning technology related to a positioning service; and control the positioning service based on the first message.

[0009] In some examples of the first aspect, the first message may include at least one of the following: an indication indicating that a positioning service quality (QoS) requirement for the first positioning technology is not guaranteed, or an indication indicating that a positioning integrity requirement for the positioning service is not guaranteed.

[0010] In some examples of the first aspect, the indication may be used to indicate that the positioning QoS requirement is not guaranteed for at least one of a specified area or a specified time. In some examples, the specified area may include one or more transmission and reception point (TRP) identifiers and / or road side unit (RSU) identifiers. One or more TRP identifiers and / or RSU identifiers may be defined as a list.

[0011] In some examples of the first aspect, the positioning QoS requirement may include at least one of latency, time to alert (TTA), or accuracy.

[0012] In some examples of the first aspect, to control positioning services, the computer program code, when executed using at least one processor, may cause the apparatus to: defer transmission of a positioning request transmission related to a first positioning technology or reduce the number of positioning request transmissions for positioning services.

[0013] In some examples of the first aspect, to control the positioning service, the computer program code, when executed using at least one processor, may cause the apparatus to: postpone exchanging positioning-related messages related to the first positioning technology or reduce the number of exchanged positioning-related messages for the positioning service.

[0014] In some examples of the first aspect, the first message may include recommendation information indicating at least one positioning technology that is unavailable.

[0015] In some examples of the first aspect, the first message may include recommendation information indicating that at least one positioning technology is available.

[0016] In some examples of the first aspect, the first message may indicate the second positioning technology.

[0017] In some examples of the first aspect, the computer program code may also, when executed using at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: send a second message including congestion status information about one or more network performance metrics related to congestion.

[0018] In some examples of the first aspect, the one or more network performance metrics may include at least one of the following: delay, throughput, latency, packet loss rate, number of user devices per cell, number of occupied radio resources, interference measured on resources, or occurrence of predefined events. In some other examples, one or more network performance metrics associated with positioning services may include at least one of the following: the number of user devices requesting positioning services within a time period and / or within an area and the average latency of requests for positioning services within the time period and / or within the area.

[0019] In some examples of the first aspect, the at least one positioning technology may include one or more of a sidelink-based positioning technology and a radio access technology (RAT)-independent positioning technology.

[0020] In some examples of the first aspect, the second message is sent using LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) or Radio Resource Control (RRC).

[0021] In some examples of the first aspect, the computer program code may also, when executed with at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: determine congestion that may result in degradation.

[0022] In some examples of the first aspect, to determine congestion, the computer program code may also, when executed using at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: determine that at least one of positioning quality of service (QoS) and positioning integrity is not satisfied for multiple positioning requests.

[0023] In some examples of the first aspect, to determine that at least one of the positioning service quality (QoS) and the positioning integrity is not satisfied, the computer program code may also cause the device to: determine whether the number of requests for positioning services exceeds a threshold when executed by at least one processor. In some further examples, the computer program code may also cause the device to: receive a configuration including the threshold when executed by at least one processor.

[0024] In some examples of the first aspect, to determine congestion, the computer program code may also, when executed using at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: determine congestion on at least one of a sidelink, an uplink, and a downlink.

[0025] In some examples of the first aspect, the computer program code may also, when executed with at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: receive a request for information about congestion.

[0026] In some examples of the first aspect, the first message can be received via broadcast, multicast, or dedicated unicast signaling.

[0027] In some examples of the first aspect, the first message may be received using LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) or Radio Resource Control (RRC).

[0028] In some examples of the first aspect, the first positioning technology may include a radio access technology (RAT)-dependent positioning service.

[0029] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, a method for controlling a positioning service is provided. The method may be performed by a user device or a device in the user device. The method according to the second aspect includes: receiving a first message related to a degradation of a first positioning technology related to the positioning service, and controlling the positioning service based on the first message.

[0030] In some examples of the second aspect, the first message includes at least one of: an indication indicating that a positioning service quality (QoS) requirement for the first positioning technology is not guaranteed, or an indication indicating that a positioning integrity requirement for the positioning service is not guaranteed.

[0031] In some examples of the second aspect, the indication may be used to indicate that the positioning QoS requirement is not guaranteed for at least one of a specified area or a specified time. In some examples, the specified area may include one or more transmission and reception point (TRP) identifiers and / or road side unit (RSU) identifiers. One or more TRP identifiers and / or RSU identifiers may be defined as a list.

[0032] In some examples of the second aspect, the positioning QoS requirement may include at least one of latency, time to alert (TTA), or accuracy.

[0033] In some examples of the second aspect, controlling the positioning service may include deferring transmission of a positioning request related to the first positioning technology or reducing the number of positioning request transmissions for the positioning service.

[0034] In some examples of the second aspect, controlling the positioning service may include postponing an exchange of positioning-related messages related to the first positioning technology or reducing a number of exchanged positioning-related messages for the positioning service.

[0035] In some examples of the second aspect, the first message may include recommendation information indicating at least one positioning technology that is unavailable.

[0036] In some examples of the second aspect, the first message may include recommendation information indicating that at least one positioning technology is available.

[0037] In some examples of the second aspect, the first message may indicate a second positioning technology.

[0038] In some examples of the second aspect, the method may also include sending a second message including congestion status information about one or more network performance metrics related to congestion.

[0039] In some examples of the second aspect, the one or more network performance metrics may include at least one of the following: delay, throughput, latency, packet loss rate, number of user devices per cell, number of occupied radio resources, interference measured on resources, or occurrence of predefined events. In some other examples, one or more network performance metrics associated with positioning services may include at least one of the following: the number of user devices requesting positioning services within a time period and / or within an area and the average latency of requests for positioning services within the time period and / or within the area.

[0040] In some examples of the second aspect, the at least one positioning technology may include one or more of a sidelink-based positioning technology and a radio access technology (RAT)-independent positioning technology.

[0041] In some examples of the second aspect, the second message is sent using LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) or Radio Resource Control (RRC).

[0042] In some examples of the second aspect, the method may include determining congestion that may cause degradation.

[0043] In some examples of the second aspect, determining congestion may include determining that at least one of positioning quality of service (QoS) and positioning integrity is not satisfied for the plurality of positioning requests.

[0044] In some examples of the second aspect, determining that at least one of positioning quality of service (QoS) and positioning integrity is not satisfied may also include determining whether the number of requests for positioning services exceeds a threshold. In some further examples, the method may also include receiving a configuration including the threshold.

[0045] In some examples of the second aspect, determining congestion may include determining congestion on at least one of a sidelink, an uplink, and a downlink.

[0046] In some examples of the second aspect, the method may also include receiving a request for information about congestion.

[0047] In some examples of the second aspect, the first message can be received via broadcast, multicast, or dedicated unicast signaling.

[0048] In some examples of the second aspect, the first message may be received using LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) or Radio Resource Control (RRC).

[0049] In some examples of the second aspect, the first positioning technology may include a radio access technology (RAT)-dependent positioning service.

[0050] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, a user equipment (e.g., user equipment (UE)) or an apparatus in such a user equipment is provided. The apparatus or user equipment according to the third aspect includes: a component (e.g., a receiving module) for receiving a first message related to degradation of a first positioning technology related to a positioning service; and a component (e.g., a control module) for controlling the positioning service based on the first message.

[0051] In some examples of the third aspect, the user equipment or device may also include components or modules for performing one or more examples according to the examples of the second aspect.

[0052] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a user device (e.g., user equipment (UE)) or an apparatus in such a user device is provided. The user device or apparatus according to the fourth aspect comprises at least one processor and at least one memory comprising computer program code. The computer program code, when executed using at least one processor, causes the apparatus to receive, for example, from a network, a first message (e.g., auxiliary data) indicating degradation of a positioning service, and to control the use of the positioning service based on the first message (e.g., auxiliary data).

[0053] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a method for controlling a positioning service is provided. The method may be performed by a user equipment or a device in a user equipment. The method according to the fifth aspect includes: receiving, for example, from a network, a first message (e.g., auxiliary data) indicating degradation of the positioning service, and controlling the use of the positioning service based on the first message (e.g., auxiliary data).

[0054] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a network node (e.g., a base station, a gNB, or a LMF) or an apparatus in such a network node is provided. The network node or apparatus includes at least one processor and at least one memory including a computer program code. The computer program code, when executed using at least one processor, causes the apparatus or network node to: determine a degradation of a first positioning technology; and transmit a first message related to the degradation to a user equipment, wherein the first message triggers the user equipment to control a positioning service related to the first positioning technology based on the first message.

[0055] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the first message may include at least one of the following: an indication indicating that a positioning service quality QoS requirement for the first positioning technology is not guaranteed, or an indication indicating that a positioning integrity requirement for the positioning service is not guaranteed.

[0056] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the indication may be used to indicate that the positioning QoS requirement is not guaranteed for at least one of a specified area or a specified time. In some examples, the specified area may include one or more transmission and reception point (TRP) identifiers and / or road side unit (RSU) identifiers. One or more TRP identifiers and / or RSU identifiers may be defined as a list.

[0057] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the positioning QoS requirements may include at least one of latency, time to alert (TTA), or accuracy.

[0058] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the first message may instruct the user equipment to postpone transmission of a positioning request related to the first positioning technology or reduce the number of positioning request transmissions for the positioning service.

[0059] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the first message may instruct the user equipment to postpone exchanging positioning-related messages related to the first positioning technology or reduce the number of exchanged positioning-related messages for positioning services.

[0060] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the first message may include recommendation information indicating at least one positioning technology that is unavailable.

[0061] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the first message may include recommendation information indicating that at least one positioning technology is available.

[0062] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the first message may indicate a second positioning technology.

[0063] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the computer program code may also, when executed using at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: receive a second message including congestion status information about one or more network performance metrics related to congestion.

[0064] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the one or more network performance metrics may include at least one of the following: delay, throughput, latency, packet loss rate, number of user devices per cell, number of occupied radio resources, interference measured on resources, or occurrence of predefined events. In some examples, one or more network performance metrics associated with positioning services may include at least one of the following: the number of user devices requesting positioning services within a time period and / or within an area and the average latency of requests for positioning services within the time period and / or within the area.

[0065] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the at least one positioning technology may include one or more of a sidelink-based positioning technology and a radio access technology (RAT)-independent positioning technology.

[0066] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the second message is received using LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) or Radio Resource Control (RRC).

[0067] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the computer program code may also, when executed using at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: determine congestion that may result in degradation.

[0068] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the computer program code may also cause the device, when executed using at least one processor: observe that the first positioning technology may be affected by degradation. In some examples, in order to observe that the first positioning technology may be affected by degradation, the computer program code may also cause the device, when executed using at least one processor, to perform at least one of the following: observe that the number and / or rate of positioning requests within the area The positioning service quality (QoS) cannot be met, observe that one or more positioning integrity key performance indicators (KPIs) are not met, and observe that the number of rejected messages and / or error messages related to the first positioning technology exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0069] In some examples of the sixth aspect, to determine congestion, the computer program code may also, when executed using at least one processor, cause the device to at least: determine that at least one of positioning quality of service (QoS) and positioning integrity is not satisfied for multiple positioning requests.

[0070] In some examples of the sixth aspect, in order to determine that at least one of positioning service quality (QoS) and positioning integrity is not met, the computer program code can also cause the device to: determine whether the number of requests for positioning services exceeds a threshold when executed using at least one processor.

[0071] In some examples of the sixth aspect, to determine congestion, the computer program code may also, when executed using at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: determine congestion on at least one of a side link, an uplink, and a downlink.

[0072] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the computer program code may also, when executed using at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: send a request for information about congestion to a user equipment.

[0073] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the first message can be sent via broadcast, multicast, or dedicated unicast signaling.

[0074] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the first message may be sent using LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) or Radio Resource Control (RRC).

[0075] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the first positioning technology may include a positioning service that depends on a radio access technology (RAT).

[0076] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the network node may include a base station (e.g., a gNB) and / or a location management function (LMF).

[0077] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the computer program code may also cause the apparatus, when executed using at least one processor, to transmit, by the gNB to the LMF, a third message including congestion status information related to the first positioning technology. In such examples, the third message may be transmitted via NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa).

[0078] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the third message may be transmitted in response to a request from the LMF or in response to receipt of the second message by the gNB from the user equipment.

[0079] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the computer program code may also cause the device, when executed using at least one processor, to: transmit, by the gNB to the LMF, a fourth message related to the degradation of the first positioning technology related to the positioning service.

[0080] In some examples of the sixth aspect, the computer program code may also cause the device to: select a user device from a plurality of user devices to provide a second message, and notify the user device to provide the second message when being executed by at least one processor. In such an example, selecting the user device may be based on one or more of the following: minimum overhead caused by providing the second message, minimum sidelink resource overhead, and a current location of the user device.

[0081] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a method for controlling a positioning service is provided. The method may be performed by a network node or a device in a network node. The method according to the seventh aspect includes: determining a degradation of a first positioning technology; and transmitting a first message related to the degradation to a user equipment, wherein the first message triggers the user equipment to control a positioning service related to the first positioning technology based on the first message.

[0082] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the first message may include at least one of the following: an indication indicating that a positioning service quality (QoS) requirement for the first positioning technology is not guaranteed, or an indication indicating that a positioning integrity requirement for the positioning service is not guaranteed.

[0083] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the indication may be used to indicate that the positioning QoS requirement is not guaranteed for at least one of a specified area or a specified time. In some examples, the specified area may include one or more transmission and reception point (TRP) identifiers and / or road side unit (RSU) identifiers. One or more TRP identifiers and / or RSU identifiers may be defined as a list.

[0084] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the positioning QoS requirements may include at least one of latency, time to alert (TTA), or accuracy.

[0085] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the first message may instruct the user equipment to postpone transmission of a positioning request transmission related to the first positioning technology or reduce the number of positioning request transmissions for the positioning service.

[0086] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the first message may instruct the user equipment to postpone exchanging positioning-related messages related to the first positioning technology or reduce the number of exchanged positioning-related messages for positioning services.

[0087] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the first message may include recommendation information indicating at least one positioning technology that is unavailable.

[0088] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the first message may include recommendation information indicating that at least one positioning technology is available.

[0089] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the first message may indicate a second positioning technology.

[0090] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the method may also include: receiving a second message including congestion status information about one or more network performance metrics related to congestion.

[0091] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the one or more network performance metrics may include at least one of the following: delay, throughput, latency, packet loss rate, number of user devices per cell, number of occupied radio resources, interference measured on resources, or occurrence of predefined events. In some examples, one or more network performance metrics associated with positioning services may include at least one of the following: the number of user devices requesting positioning services within a time period and / or within an area and the average latency of requests for positioning services within the time period and / or within the area.

[0092] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the at least one positioning technology may include one or more of a sidelink-based positioning technology and a radio access technology (RAT)-independent positioning technology.

[0093] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the second message is received using LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) or Radio Resource Control (RRC).

[0094] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the method may also include: determining congestion that may cause degradation.

[0095] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the method may further include: observing that the first positioning technology may be affected by degradation. In some examples, observing that the first positioning technology may be affected by degradation may include at least one of the following: observing that the number and / or rate of positioning requests within the area cannot be met. Quality of service (QoS), observing that one or more positioning integrity key performance indicators (KPIs) are not met, and observing that the number of rejected messages and / or error messages related to the first positioning technology exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0096] In some examples of the seventh aspect, determining congestion may include determining that at least one of positioning quality of service (QoS) and positioning integrity is not satisfied for multiple positioning requests.

[0097] In some examples of the seventh aspect, determining that at least one of positioning quality of service (QoS) and positioning integrity is not satisfied may include determining whether a number of requests for positioning services exceeds a threshold.

[0098] In some examples of the seventh aspect, determining congestion may include determining congestion on at least one of a sidelink, an uplink, and a downlink.

[0099] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the method may also include: sending a request for information about congestion to a user device.

[0100] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the first message can be sent via broadcast, multicast, or dedicated unicast signaling.

[0101] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the first message may be sent using LTE Positioning Protocol (LPP) or Radio Resource Control (RRC).

[0102] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the first positioning technology may include a positioning service that depends on a radio access technology (RAT).

[0103] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the network node may include a base station (e.g., a gNB) and / or a location management function (LMF).

[0104] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the method may also include: transmitting, by the gNB to the LMF, a third message including congestion status information related to the first positioning technology. In such examples, the third message may be transmitted via NR Positioning Protocol A (NRPPa).

[0105] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the third message may be transmitted in response to a request from the LMF or in response to receipt of the second message by the gNB from the user equipment.

[0106] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the method may also include: transmitting, by the gNB to the LMF, a fourth message related to the degradation of the first positioning technology related to the positioning service.

[0107] In some examples of the seventh aspect, the method may further include: selecting a user equipment from a plurality of user equipments to provide a second message, and notifying the user equipment to provide the second message. In such examples, selecting the user equipment may be based on one or more of: a minimum overhead caused by providing the second message, a minimum sidelink resource overhead, and a current location of the user equipment.

[0108] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, a network node (e.g., a base station, a gNB, or a LMF) or an apparatus in such a network node is provided. The network node or the equipment includes a component (e.g., a determination module) for determining degradation of a first positioning technology and a component (e.g., a transmission module) for transmitting a first message related to the degradation to a user equipment, wherein the first message triggers the user equipment to control a positioning service related to the first positioning technology based on the first message.

[0109] In some examples of the eighth aspect, the network or device may also include components or modules for performing one or more examples according to the seventh aspect.

[0110] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, a network node (e.g., a base station, a gNB, or a LMF) or an apparatus in such a network node is provided. The network node or the apparatus comprises at least one processor and at least one memory comprising a computer program code. The computer program code, when executed by at least one processor, causes the apparatus or the network node to: transmit a first message (e.g., auxiliary data) indicating degradation of a positioning service to a user equipment, wherein the first message causes the user equipment to control the use of the positioning service based on the first message (e.g., auxiliary data).

[0111] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, a method for controlling a positioning service is provided. The method may be performed by a network node or a device in a network node. The method according to the tenth aspect includes: transmitting a first message (e.g., auxiliary data) indicating degradation of the positioning service to a user equipment, wherein the first message causes the user equipment to control the use of the positioning service based on the first message (e.g., auxiliary data).

[0112] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, a computer program product comprises program instructions stored on a computer-readable medium, and when the program is executed on a computer, the program instructions perform the steps according to any one embodiment of the method outlined above.

[0113] According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising computer-executable instructions, when the computer-executable instructions are executed on one or more processors, performs the steps of any one embodiment of the method outlined above.

[0114] The above aspects and features may be implemented in systems, apparatuses, methods, articles and / or non-transitory computer-readable media depending on the desired configuration. The present disclosure may be implemented in and / or used with a variety of different types of devices, including but not limited to any of cellular phones, tablet computers, wearable computing devices, portable media players, and various other computing devices.

[0115] The present disclosure is intended to provide a brief overview of some aspects and features of the present disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that the above features are only examples and should not be interpreted as narrowing the scope of the present disclosure in any way. Other features, aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description, drawings and claims. List of abbreviations

[0116] In this disclosure, the following abbreviations are used and should be understood according to the given definitions: DL Downlink gNB Next Generation (5G) NodeB LMF Location Management Function LPP LTE Positioning Protocol NRPPa NR Positioning Protocol A NW Network QoS Quality of Service RAT Radio Access Technology RRC Radio Resource Control SL Side Link TTA Alarm Time UE User Equipment UL Uplink V2X Vehicle-to-Everything Communication BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0117] A better understanding of the present disclosure may be obtained when the following detailed description of various embodiments is considered in conjunction with the following drawings, in which:

[0118] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an example wireless network is shown;

[0119] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of an example wireless device is shown;

[0120] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of an example network node is shown;

[0121] Figure 4 shows a shock wave event causing network congestion in a roadside scenario;

[0122] Figure 5 and Figure 6 shows general elements of the mechanism according to the present disclosure in a roadside scenario;

[0123] Figure 7 and Figure 8 shows the general elements of the passive / active mechanism according to the present disclosure in a roadside scenario;

[0124] Fig. 9 A flow chart illustrating a method of controlling location services performed by a user equipment according to some embodiments;

[0125] Fig.10 It shows that there are Fig. 9 A block diagram of an example wireless device of a module of a method;

[0126] Fig.11 A flow chart illustrating a method of controlling location services performed by a network according to some embodiments;

[0127] Fig.12 It shows that there are Fig.11 A block diagram of an example network node of a module of the method;

[0128] Figures 13 to 16 An example message sequence chart illustrating a method of controlling location services according to some embodiments; and

[0129] Fig.17 Shown is the method for implementing Fig. 9 and Fig.11 A block diagram of an example virtualization process of a method. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0130] The examples and embodiments set forth below represent information that enables those skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure. When reading the following description in accordance with the accompanying drawings, those skilled in the art will understand the concepts described and will recognize the application of these concepts that are not specifically addressed herein. It should be understood that these concepts and applications fall within the scope of the specification.

[0131] In the following description, many specific details are set forth. However, it should be understood that the embodiments can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known circuits, structures, and techniques are not shown in detail to avoid obscuring the understanding of the specification. With the included description, one of ordinary skill in the art will be able to implement appropriate functions without undue experimentation.

[0132] References in the specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "an example embodiment," etc. indicate that the described embodiment may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in conjunction with an embodiment, it is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art to implement such feature, structure, or characteristic in conjunction with other embodiments, whether or not explicitly described.

[0133] As used herein, "plurality" means two or more than two. As used herein, a "set" of items may include one or more of such items. As used herein, whether in the present disclosure or in the claims, the terms "include", "comprising", "carrying", "having", "containing", "involving", etc. should be understood to be open-ended, i.e., meaning including but not limited to. For the claims, only the transition phrases "consisting of..." and "consisting essentially of..." are closed or semi-closed transition phrases, respectively. The use of sequential terms such as "first", "second", "third", etc. in the claims or disclosures to modify elements does not itself mean any priority, sequence, or the order of one element relative to another element, or the time sequence of the actions of the execution method, but is only used as a label to distinguish an element with a specific name from another element with the same name (but using sequential terms) to distinguish elements. As used herein, "and / or" and "at least one" mean that the listed items are alternatives, but the alternatives also include any combination of the listed items.

[0134] Before explaining in detail the examples according to the present disclosure, Figures 1 to 3 Certain general principles of wireless communication systems are briefly explained to aid understanding of the underlying technology of the described examples.

[0135] Figure 1An example of a wireless network 100 that can be used for wireless communications is shown. The wireless network 100 includes wireless devices such as UEs 110 (e.g., 110A-110B) and network nodes such as radio access nodes 120 (e.g., 120A-120B) (e.g., eNBs, gNBs, etc.), which are connected to one or more network nodes 130 via an interconnect network 125. The network 100 can use any suitable deployment scenario. Each UE 110 within a coverage area 115 can be able to communicate directly with the radio access node 120 over a wireless interface. In some embodiments, the UEs 110 can also communicate with each other via D2D communications.

[0136] As an example, UE 110A may communicate with radio access node 120A via a wireless interface. That is, UE 110A may transmit wireless signals to and / or receive wireless signals from radio access node 120A. The wireless signals may contain voice traffic, data traffic, control signals, and / or any other suitable information.

[0137] As used herein, the term "user equipment" (UE) has the full scope of its ordinary meaning and may refer to any type of wireless device that can communicate with a network node and / or with another UE in a cellular or mobile or wireless communication system. Examples of UEs are target devices, D2D UEs, machine type UEs or UEs capable of machine-to-machine (M2M) communication, personal digital assistants, tablet computers, mobile terminals, smart phones, laptop embedded equipment (LEE), laptop mounted equipment (LME), USB dongles, ProSe UEs, vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) UEs, V2X UEs, MTC UEs, eMTC UEs, FeMTC UEs, UE Cat 0, UE Cat M1, narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) UEs, UE Cat NB1, etc. Example embodiments of UEs are described below with reference to Figure 2 Described in more detail.

[0138] In some embodiments, the wireless signal coverage 115 associated with the radio access node 120 may be referred to as a cell. However, particularly with respect to 5G / NR concepts, beams may be used instead of cells, and therefore it is important to note that the concepts described herein are equally applicable to both cells and beams.

[0139] The interconnection network 125 may refer to any interconnection system capable of transmitting audio, video, signals, data, messages, etc., or any combination of the foregoing. The interconnection network 125 may include all or part of a public switched telephone network (PSTN), a public or private data network, a local area network (LAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), a wide area network (WAN), a local, regional or global communication or computer network (such as the Internet), a wired or wireless network, an intranet, or any other suitable communication link, including combinations thereof.

[0140] In some embodiments, the network node 130 may be a core network node that manages the establishment of communication sessions and various other functions of the UE 110. Examples of the network node 130 may include a mobile switching center (MSC), an MME, a serving gateway (SGW), a packet data network gateway (PGW), operations and maintenance (O&M), an operations support system (OSS), a SON, a positioning node (e.g., an enhanced serving mobile location center, E-SMLC), a location server node, an MDT node, etc. The UE 110 may exchange specific signals with the network node 130 using a non-access stratum (NAS) layer. In the non-access stratum signaling, the signals between the UE 110 and the network node 130 may be transparently transferred through the radio access network. In some embodiments, the radio access node 120 may interact with one or more network nodes 130 through an inter-node interface.

[0141] As used herein, the term "network node" has the full scope of its ordinary meaning and may correspond to any type of radio access node (or radio network node) or any network node that can communicate with a UE and / or another network node in a cellular or mobile or wireless communication system. Examples of network nodes are NodeB, MeNB, SeNB, the network node may belong to an MCG or SCG, a base station (BS), a multi-standard radio (MSR) radio access node such as an MSR BS, an eNodeB, a network controller, a radio network controller (RNC), a base station controller (BSC), a relay, a host node controlling a relay, a base transceiver station (BTS), an access point (AP), a transmission point, a transmission node, an RRU, an RRH, a node in a distributed antenna system (DAS), a core network node (e.g., MSC, MME, etc.), O&M, OSS, a self-organizing network (SON), a positioning node (e.g., E-SMLC), an MDT, test equipment, etc. Example embodiments of network nodes are described below with reference to Figure 3 Described in more detail.

[0142] In some embodiments, the radio access node 120 may be a distributed radio access node. The components of the radio access node 120 and their associated functions may be separated into two main units (or sub-radio network nodes), which may be referred to as a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). Different distributed radio network node architectures are possible. For example, in some architectures, the DU may be connected to the CU via a dedicated wired or wireless link (e.g., a fiber optic cable), while in other architectures, the DU may be connected to the CU via a transmission network. In addition, how the various functions of the radio access node 120 are separated between (multiple) CUs and (multiple) DUs may vary based on the selected architecture.

[0143] The example wireless communication system is an architecture standardized by the Third Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). The latest 3GPP-based development is generally referred to as the Long Term Evolution (LTE) of the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Radio Access Technology (RAT). The various development stages of the 3GPP specification are referred to as releases. The latest development of LTE is generally referred to as Advanced LTE (LTE-A). LTE (LTE-A) adopts a radio mobile architecture called Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN) and a core network called Evolved Packet Core (EPC). The base station of such a system is called an evolved or enhanced Node B (eNB) and provides E-UTRAN features, such as user plane packet data convergence / radio link control / medium access control / physical layer protocol (PDCP / RLC / MAC / PHY) and control plane radio resource control (RRC) protocol termination to the communication device. Other RAT examples include technologies provided by base stations of systems based on technologies such as WLAN and / or Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMax). The base station can provide coverage for an entire cell or similar radio service area. The core network elements include the Mobility Management Entity (MME), the Serving Gateway (S-GW) and the Packet Gateway (P-GW).

[0144] An example of a suitable communication system is the 5G or NR concept. The network architecture in NR may be similar to that of LTE-A. The base stations of the NR system may be referred to as next generation Node Bs (gNBs). Changes to the network architecture may depend on the need to support various radio technologies and more refined quality of service (QoS) support, as well as some on-demand requirements for QoS levels to support quality of experience (QoE) from the user's perspective. Network-aware services and applications, as well as service- and application-aware networks, may also bring changes to the architecture. These are related to the information-centric network (ICN) and user-centric content distribution network (UC-CDN) approaches. NR may use multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antennas, many more base stations or nodes than LTE (the so-called small cell concept), including macro sites operating in collaboration with smaller stations, and may also employ various radio technologies for better coverage and enhanced data rates.

[0145] Future networks may utilize network function virtualization (NFV), which is a network architecture concept that proposes virtualizing network node functions into "building blocks" or entities that can be operably connected or linked together to provide services. Virtualized network functions (VNFs) may include one or more virtual machines that use standard or general-purpose servers rather than custom hardware to run computer program code. Cloud computing or data storage may also be utilized. In radio communications, this may mean that node operations are at least partially performed in a server, host, or node that is operably coupled to a remote radio head. Node operations may also be distributed among multiple servers, nodes, or hosts. It should also be understood that the labor distribution between core network operations and base station operations may be different from that of LTE or even non-existent.

[0146] Example 5G Core Network (CN) includes functional entities. CN is connected to UE via Radio Access Network (RAN). UPF (User Plane Function) as a role called PSA (PDU Session Anchor) can be responsible for forwarding frames back and forth between DN (Data Network) and the channel of UE that exchanges traffic with Data Network (DN) established by 5G. UPF is controlled by SMF (Session Management Function) that receives policies from PCF (Policy Control Function). CN may also include AMF (Access and Mobility Function).

[0147] Figure 2is a schematic diagram of an example wireless device UE 110 according to certain embodiments. UE 110 includes a transceiver 210, a processor 220, a memory 230, and a network interface 240. In some embodiments, the transceiver 210 facilitates transmission of wireless signals to and reception of wireless signals from the radio access node 120 (e.g., via (multiple) transmitters (Tx), (multiple) receivers (Rx), and (multiple) antennas). The processor 220 executes instructions to provide some or all of the functionality provided by the UE 110 described herein, and the memory 230 stores instructions executed by the processor 220. In some embodiments, the processor 220 and the memory 230 form a processing circuit system.

[0148] The processor 220 may include any suitable combination of hardware for executing instructions and manipulating data to perform some or all of the described functionality of a wireless device, such as the functionality of the UE 110 described herein. In some embodiments, the processor 220 may include, for example, one or more computers, one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and / or other logic.

[0149] The memory 230 is generally operable to store instructions, such as computer programs, software, applications including one or more of logic, rules, algorithms, codes, tables, etc., and / or other instructions that can be executed by the processor 220. Examples of the memory 230 include computer memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM) or read-only memory (ROM)), mass storage media (e.g., hard disk), removable storage media (e.g., compact disk (CD) or digital video disk (DVD)), and / or any other volatile or non-volatile, non-transitory computer-readable and / or computer-executable memory device that stores information, data and / or instructions that can be used by the processor 220 of the UE 110. For example, the memory 230 includes a memory that enables the processor 220 to perform operations according to the following references. Fig. 9 The method described is performed by a computer program code.

[0150] The network interface 240 is communicatively coupled to the processor 220 and may refer to any suitable device operable to receive input from the UE 110, send output from the UE 110, perform appropriate processing on the input or output or both, communicate with other devices, or any combination thereof. The network interface 240 may include appropriate hardware (e.g., a port, a modem, a network interface card, etc.) and software, including protocol conversion and data processing capabilities, to communicate over a network.

[0151] Other embodiments of UE 110 may include, in addition to Figure 2Additional components beyond those components shown in the figure, which additional components may be responsible for providing specific aspects of the wireless device functionality, including any functionality described herein and / or any additional functionality (including any functionality necessary to support the mechanisms according to the present disclosure). As an example, the UE 110 may include input devices and circuits, output devices, and one or more synchronization units or circuits, which may be part of the processor 220. The input device includes a mechanism for inputting data into the UE 110. For example, the input device may include an input mechanism such as a microphone, an input element, a display, etc. The output device may include a mechanism for outputting data in an audio, video, and / or hard copy format. For example, the output device may include a speaker, a display, etc.

[0152] In some embodiments, the wireless device UE 110 may include a series of modules configured to implement the functions of the wireless device described herein.

[0153] It should be understood that various modules may be implemented as a combination of hardware and software, for example, Figure 2 The processor, memory, and transceiver(s) of UE 110 are shown in FIG. Some embodiments may also include additional modules to support additional and / or optional functionality.

[0154] Figure 3 3 is a schematic diagram of an example radio access node 120 or network node 130. The example radio access node 120 or network node 130 may include one or more of a transceiver 310, a processor 320, a memory 330, and a network interface 340. In some embodiments, the transceiver 310 facilitates transmission of wireless signals to and reception of wireless signals from a wireless device (such as a UE 110) (e.g., via (multiple) transmitters (Tx), (multiple) receivers (Rx), and (multiple) antennas). The processor 320 executes instructions to provide some or all of the functions provided by the radio access node 120 or network node 130 described herein, and the memory 330 stores instructions executed by the processor 320. In some embodiments, the processor 320 and the memory 330 form a processing circuit system. The network interface 340 may pass signals to backend network components, such as a gateway, a switch, a router, the Internet, a public switched telephone network (PSTN), a core network node, or a radio network controller, etc.

[0155] The processor 320 may include any suitable combination of hardware for executing instructions and manipulating data to perform some or all of the described functions of the radio access node 120 or the network node 130, such as those described herein. In some embodiments, the processor 320 may include, for example, one or more computers, one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more microprocessors, one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and / or other logic.

[0156] The memory 330 is generally operable to store instructions, such as computer programs, software, applications including one or more of logic, rules, algorithms, codes, tables, etc., and / or other instructions that can be executed by the processor 320. Examples of the memory 330 include computer memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM) or read-only memory (ROM)), mass storage media (e.g., hard disk), removable storage media (e.g., compact disk (CD) or digital video disk (DVD)), and / or any other volatile or non-volatile, non-transitory computer-readable and / or computer-executable memory device that stores information. For example, the memory 330 includes instructions that enable the processor 320 to execute the instructions according to the following references. Fig.11 The method described is performed by a computer program code.

[0157] In some embodiments, the network interface 340 is communicatively coupled to the processor 320 and may refer to any suitable device operable to receive input from the radio access node 120 or the network node 130, send output from the radio access node 120 or the network node 130, perform appropriate processing on the input or output or both, communicate with other devices, or any combination of the above. The network interface 340 may include appropriate hardware (e.g., a port, a modem, a network interface card, etc.) and software, including protocol conversion and data processing capabilities, to communicate over a network.

[0158] Other embodiments of the radio access node 120 or the network node 130 may include, in addition to Figure 3 Additional components beyond those shown in the , additional components may be responsible for providing specific aspects of the node functionality, including any functionality described herein and / or any additional functionality (including any functionality necessary to support the solutions described herein). Various different types of radio access nodes or network nodes may include components having the same physical hardware but configured (e.g., via programming) to support different radio access technologies, or may partially or completely represent different physical components.

[0159] About Figure 3Similar processors, interfaces, and memories described above may be included in other nodes (e.g., UE 110, radio access node 120, etc.). Other nodes may optionally include or not include a wireless interface (such as Figure 3 transceiver described in ).

[0160] In some embodiments, the radio access node 120 or the network node 130 may include a series of modules configured to implement the functionality of the radio access node 120 or the network node 130 described herein.

[0161] It should be understood that various modules may be implemented as a combination of hardware and software, for example, Figure 3 The processor, memory and transceiver(s) of the radio access node 120 or network node 130 shown in FIG. Some embodiments may also include additional modules to support additional and / or optional functionalities.

[0162] In reference Figures 9 to 16 Before describing methods of controlling location services according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, some background information and aspects related to the present disclosure will be provided.

[0163] In various scenarios (e.g., roadside scenarios), the network may be congested due to specific conditions in the environment. For example, in the case of V2X scenarios, such conditions may occur in highly congested road traffic caused by accidents or shock waves and phantom jams, such as Figure 4 As shown. Figure 3 As shown, in a roadside scenario, congested road traffic 410 due to an accident causes network services such as positioning services used by user equipment 420 (e.g., a vehicle) to be degraded due to network congestion. The reason is that the message rate generated by such an unexpected event increases significantly (e.g., Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) messages, such as Collaborative Awareness Messages (CAM) and Decentralized Environment Notification Messages (DENM)), which are transmitted by vehicles via SL and UL. As a result, resources on the SL and / or Uu may become congested. Due to the congestion of increased data traffic, the positioning service (for example) may be affected, so that the transmission of positioning-related messages or reference signals may be delayed or even discarded, which in turn degrades the positioning QoS, mainly in terms of latency and accuracy.

[0164] The 3GPP specifications do not provide mechanisms related to the degradation of positioning technologies or positioning services related to positioning technologies due to network congestion. Specifically, the core network entity that controls the positioning technology or positioning services (i.e., the Location Management Function (LMF)) does not have information about the network status, for example, in terms of congestion or communication traffic load. Previous solutions consider GNSS integrity and propose UE-assisted detection of threats to GNSS systems and auxiliary data signaling. However, previous solutions do not consider network congestion issues, such as through UL / DL or SL, which will hinder the availability and / or QoS / integrity of positioning services.

[0165] The present disclosure provides a mechanism for controlling positioning services to achieve positioning integrity and accuracy. The present disclosure addresses the shortcomings of graceful degradation of positioning QoS relying on RAT in congested network scenarios. The mechanism for controlling positioning services according to the present disclosure enables the UE to still perform positioning (i.e., positioning QoS) to a certain extent instead of failing completely, for example, based on active / passive warnings established by the network.

[0166] Typically, the UE is informed of QoS availability and continuity for positioning, and dynamically offloads traffic on at least one of UL, DL or SL according to congestion / load conditions in the network. More specifically, the mechanism according to the present disclosure includes one or more of the following elements.

[0167] Figure 5 The general elements of the mechanism in the roadside scenario are shown. Figure 5 As shown in , the network 510 will provide a first message 540 (e.g., assistance data) to (multiple) user equipment 520, the first message being related to the degradation of a first positioning technology (e.g., a RAT-dependent positioning technology), the first positioning technology being related to the positioning service used by (multiple) user equipment 520. In addition, the first message may include an indication for indicating that a specific positioning QoS requirement (e.g., latency, impact TTA, accuracy) for a specific positioning method (i.e., a specific positioning service or a specific positioning technology) may not be guaranteed in a specific area and / or at a specific time. Additionally or alternatively, the first message may include an indication (e.g., a warning) for indicating that limited QoS can be guaranteed (e.g., accuracy or latency within a specific range or above / below a threshold). In other words, the network 510 transmits a warning to the (multiple) user equipment 520 via the first message 540 indicating that the positioning QoS cannot be met due to network congestion.

[0168] For example, Figure 5 As shown, a network 510 (eg, a base station such as Figure 1A network node 120A or LMF) provides a first message 540 (e.g., assistance data) to (multiple) user equipment 520 (e.g., a UE in a vehicle traveling along a road approaching congestion 530). The first message 540 is about a RAT-dependent positioning technology and indicates a possible degradation of the RAT-dependent positioning technology related to the positioning service. The positioning service is used by the (multiple) user equipment 520 to determine the location of the (multiple) user equipment 520. As shown in the example, the first message 540 may indicate to the (multiple) user equipment 520 that there is congestion 530 in front of the (multiple) user equipment 520, for example, within 1 kilometer. The first message 540 may also indicate that positioning QoS cannot be guaranteed due to congestion 530 in a specific area. The area may be defined as a list of transmission and reception points (TRPs) and / or roadside unit (RSU) identifiers (IDs).

[0169] In addition, the first message 540 may include recommendation information. The recommendation information provides an indication to the (multiple) user equipment 520 that at least one positioning technology (e.g., a positioning technology that relies on RAT) is available or unavailable. The recommendation information may also indicate (un)availability in a specific area and / or at a specific time. As shown in the example, the first message may indicate a second positioning technology (e.g., a positioning technology that does not rely on RAT), which is a technology that the (multiple) user equipment 520 can switch to to avoid positioning based on the first positioning technology (e.g., a positioning technology that relies on RAT) being degraded.

[0170] For example, Figure 5 As shown, the first message 540 includes a recommendation to switch to a positioning service that is not dependent on RAT. The recommendation can be used in the case where different capabilities of (multiple) user equipment 520 need to be supported. Examples of (multiple) second positioning technologies include Uu-based methods (e.g., downlink arrival time difference-DL TDoA, multi-cell round-trip time-MultiRTT, uplink arrival angle-UL AoA, etc.), SL-based methods, GNSS, other RAT-independent technologies (e.g., motion sensors, Bluetooth, etc.). In this regard, the network 510 (e.g., LMF) can also determine which specific positioning technology to use in the case of a Uu-based method. For example, the network 510 can indicate that the RTT method will be better than the DL TDoA.

[0171] In some specific examples, the network 510 may provide the first message 540 to the user equipment(s) 520, indicating that "there is a road accident ahead, and there are a large number of positioning requests at the network due to congested traffic. The latency of the Uu-based positioning technology (e.g., multi-RTT) cannot be met. Instead, switch to a SL-based or RAT-independent positioning technology." That is, the network 510 provides the user equipment(s) 520 with information indicating degradation related to the Uu-based positioning technology, the information indicating a specific area where the degradation may exist (e.g., along the road ahead of the user equipment(s) 520), and the information provides recommendation information about the SL-based or RAT-independent positioning technology to which the user equipment(s) 520 may switch.

[0172] Based on the first message 540 (e.g., a warning, an indication of degradation, etc.), the (multiple) user devices 520 may control the positioning service or the use of the positioning service based on the first message 540. For example, the (multiple) user devices 520 may postpone the transmission of a positioning request related to the first positioning technology, postpone the exchange of positioning-related messages related to the first positioning technology, reduce the number of positioning request transmissions for the positioning service, reduce the number of exchanged positioning-related messages for the positioning service and / or switch to a second positioning technology recommended by the network 510 or a positioning service related to the second positioning technology, thereby avoiding the impact on positioning due to congestion 530 (e.g., network delay) and helping to unload congested traffic.

[0173] Figure 6 Other general elements of the mechanism in the roadside scenario are shown. Figure 6 As shown, (multiple) user equipment 620 provides a second message including congestion status information about one or more network performance metrics related to congestion to the network 610 (e.g., an indication of network congestion that has an impact on positioning QoS). That is, the (multiple) user equipment 620 indicates to the network 620 that the first positioning technology (e.g., a positioning technology that relies on RAT) or a positioning service related to the first positioning technology may be affected by degradation. For example, the (multiple) user equipment 620 may provide the network 610 with a second message 640 (e.g., auxiliary data), including congestion status information indicating that severe traffic / congestion on the SL has an impact on positioning QoS. The second message 640 may also provide further information, such as a specific key performance indicator (KPI) required by the first positioning technology or positioning service is not achievable due to severe traffic / congestion.

[0174] Example KPIs that can help identify different integrity events include one or more of the following: alarm limit (i.e., the maximum error allowable for safe operation), time to alarm (TTA) (i.e., the maximum allowable elapsed time from the start of a positioning failure until the user device announces an alarm), integrity risk (TR) (i.e., the maximum probability of providing a signal that exceeds the tolerance limit without a warning within a given time period), and protection level (PL) (i.e., a statistical error limit is calculated to ensure that the probability of exceeding a numerical absolute position error is less than or equal to a target integrity risk).

[0175] An indication (e.g., a warning) provided by the user equipment(s) 620 to the network 610 may trigger the network 610 to Figure 5 The first message 540 (eg, assistance data) shown in FIG. 5 is provided to the user equipment(s) 620, thereby indicating that a specific positioning QoS requirement for the first positioning technology may not be guaranteed, such as Figure 5 as shown in .

[0176] In principle, the mechanism according to the present disclosure provides two different ways to trigger the provision of a first message to (multiple) user equipments related to the degradation of a specific positioning technology. The first way (referred to as passive in this article) includes the network (e.g., LMF and / or gNB) observing that a specific positioning technology may be affected by the degradation. For example, the network may observe that for a certain number / rate of positioning requests in a certain area (e.g., a certain cell), the positioning QoS (e.g., RAT-based positioning QoS using UL, DL, or SL) cannot be met, the positioning integrity KPI is not met, or there are many rejected / error messages related to positioning. The reasons for the observed degradation of the specific positioning technology are not only due to congestion, but can also be due to interference, attacks, etc.

[0177] The second way (referred to herein as active) includes the user equipment (multiple) notifying the network (e.g., gNB and / or LMF) of a second message regarding a possible degradation of a particular positioning technology. For example, the user equipment (multiple) may notify the network of network traffic congestion on the SL (e.g., Figure 6 In another example, within the network, the gNB may notify the LMF about network traffic congestion in at least one of SL, UL, or DL. In response, the network (e.g., gNB and / or LMF) may issue a first message (i.e., warning) related to degradation based on an assumption / prediction that the network traffic congestion will eventually affect positioning QoS / integrity.

[0178] refer to Figure 7 , general elements of a passive mechanism according to the present disclosure in a roadside scenario will now be described.

[0179] As described above, in a passive mechanism, the network sends a first message 740 (e.g., assistance data) related to degradation of the first positioning technology based on observations and / or indications that the first positioning technology may be affected by the degradation. For example, a network node of the network (e.g., gNB 725A or LMF 720) triggers sending the first message 740 to (multiple) user equipment 710 (e.g., UE) based on observations of the network node and / or indications from (multiple) user equipment, other network nodes of the network (e.g., gNB 725A, 725B), or other network elements (e.g., RSU, Positioning Reference Unit - PRU) regarding positioning requests, such as regarding positioning QoS and / or positioning integrity that is not met.

[0180] According to the passive mechanism, the LMF 720 determines that in a specific area (e.g., in a cell such as cell X or in a list of cells), according to a specific positioning technology, for a number of requests (e.g., a number of requests exceeding a predetermined threshold), the positioning QoS and / or positioning integrity are not met. For example, the LMF 720 can determine that in cell X, more specifically in a cell with a specific cell ID, the positioning QoS of a number of positioning requests exceeds a predetermined threshold (e.g., 70% of the positioning requests) is not met. As described, the network node (e.g., LMF 720) can configure one or more thresholds to be used in the determination. The threshold can relate to the number or rate of rejected or unfulfilled positioning requests within a period of time, area. The reason why the number of positioning requests is not met (i.e., the reason that causes the positioning technology to be degraded) can be related to congestion (e.g., congestion 730), thereby avoiding timely transmission of positioning-related signals or messages on UL or DL, but may also be related to interference, attacks, etc.

[0181] Alternatively or additionally, the passive mechanism may include the user equipment (multiple) 710 and / or the network node (e.g., gNB 725A, 725B) to determine that the number (or rate) of positioning requests (i.e., sent, received, or involved) for positioning QoS and / or positioning integrity (e.g., for positioning on at least one of SL, UL, or DL) in a particular area (e.g., in cell X, in a cell list, or an area outside the coverage area) is not met. The user equipment (multiple) 710 and the gNB 725A, 725B may use a predetermined threshold to determine that the number of positioning requests is not met. As described above, the reason why the number of positioning requests is not met may be related to congestion (e.g., congestion 730), thereby avoiding timely transmission of positioning-related signals or messages on at least one of SL, UL, or DL, but may also be related to interference, attacks, etc.

[0182] In addition, in response to the determination, the (multiple) user equipment 710 and / or the gNB 725A, 725B notify the LMF 720 about the downgrade of the positioning technology (e.g., the first positioning technology) currently used for the positioning service. For example, the gNB 725A, 725B may notify the LMF 720 via the NRPPa protocol when requested or not by the LMF 720. The (multiple) user equipment 710 may send a second message (e.g., auxiliary data) to the LMF via LPP (i.e., via the LPP protocol) when requested or not by the LMF 720. Alternatively, the (multiple) user equipment 710 may also notify the LMF 720 via the gNB 725A (i.e., the gNB serving the user equipment). More specifically, the (multiple) user equipment 710 first notifies the gNB 725A via the RRC protocol (e.g., by sending a second message), optionally indicating SL congestion (e.g., reporting a channel busy rate, CBR). In turn, the gNB 725A indicates to the LMF 720 via the NRPPa protocol the information received from the user equipment(s) 710 (e.g., by sending a third or fourth message).

[0183] The first message 740 (e.g., assistance data) sent by the LMF 720 to the (multiple) user equipment 710 indicates the degradation of the positioning technology of the positioning service, so that the (multiple) user equipment 710 controls the positioning service based on the first message. For example, the first message 740 can notify the (multiple) user equipment 710 of congestion. In one example, the first message 740 indicates that the positioning QoS for the positioning technology (e.g., UL TDoA positioning) in a specific area (e.g., cell X) cannot be guaranteed. Additionally or alternatively, the first message 740 may include an indication (e.g., a warning) for indicating that limited QoS can be guaranteed (e.g., accuracy or latency within a specific range or above / below a threshold). The first message 740 may also include an indication (e.g., a recommendation) to switch to a different positioning technology (e.g., a SL-based positioning technology, a positioning technology that does not rely on RAT). In response to receiving an indication of switching, the (multiple) user equipment 710 may control the positioning service to switch to a different positioning technology.

[0184] refer to Figure 8 , general elements of the active mechanism according to the present disclosure in a roadside scenario will now be described.

[0185] As described above, in an active mechanism, the network sends a first message 840 (e.g., assistance data) related to degradation of a positioning technology (e.g., a first positioning technology) related to a location service used by a user equipment based on observations and / or indications that the positioning technology may be affected by the degradation. For example, a network node (e.g., LMF 820) of the network triggers the sending of the first message 840 to (multiple) user equipment 810A (e.g., UE) based on observations of the network node and / or indications from (multiple) user equipment, other network nodes of the network (e.g., gNB 825A, 825B), or other network elements (e.g., RSU, PRU, etc.) regarding network traffic congestion on at least one of UL, DL, or SL.

[0186] The first message 840 (e.g., assistance data) sent by the LMF 720 to the (multiple) user equipment 810A indicates the degradation of the positioning technology, so that the (multiple) user equipment 810A controls the positioning service based on the first message 840. For example, the first message 840 can notify the (multiple) user equipment 810A of the congestion state. In one example, the first message 840 indicates that the positioning QoS for the positioning technology (e.g., SL TDoA positioning) in a specific area (e.g., cell X) cannot be guaranteed. Additionally or alternatively, the first message 840 may include an indication (e.g., a warning) for indicating that limited QoS can be guaranteed (e.g., accuracy or latency within a specific range or above / below a threshold). The first message 840 may also include an indication (e.g., recommendation information) of switching to a different positioning technology (e.g., Uu-based or RAT-independent positioning technology). In response to receiving the indication of switching, the (multiple) user equipment 810A may control the positioning service to switch to a different positioning technology.

[0187] According to the active mechanism, (multiple) UE 810B and / or (multiple) network nodes (e.g., gNB 825A, 825B) transmit a second message 850 (e.g., assistance data) to the LMF 820. The second message 850 includes congestion status information of at least one of UL, DL or SL, for example, one or more network performance metrics related to congestion, such as delay, throughput, latency, packet loss rate, user density (e.g., number of Ue per cell), number / rate of occupied radio resources, interference measured on resources, occurrence of specific (predefined) events, etc. In some examples, the network performance metric can be associated with one or more positioning technologies, or one or more positioning services are related to positioning technologies, for example, the number of users per specific area requesting positioning within a specific time period (e.g., within the past X seconds / minutes, etc.) or the average latency of positioning requests within a specific time period (e.g., within the past X minutes, etc.).

[0188] Alternatively or additionally, the (multiple) UE 810B and / or (multiple) network nodes (e.g., gNB 825A, 825B) may inform the LMF 820 via a second message 850 of several predefined metrics related to SL congestion, such as SL channel busy rate (CBR) or SL channel occupancy rate (CR). For example, the (multiple) UE 810B may transmit a second message 850 (e.g., auxiliary data) to the (multiple) network node (e.g., gNB 825B) to indicate SL congestion in a specific area (e.g., in cell X) and that the SLCBR exceeds a specific threshold (e.g., SL CBR>0.8). The (multiple) network node (e.g., gNB 825B) may transmit the second message 850 received from the (multiple) UE 810B to the LMF 820 or transmit data derived based on the second message 850 to the LMF 820.

[0189] In an active mechanism, the network node(s) (e.g., gNB 825A, 825B) may request the provision of a second message 850 from the UE(s) 810A, 810B. For example, the gNB 825B may request the UE 810B to provide information related to congestion, such as a CBR or CR reported by the UE 810B to the gNB 825B. In response to receiving the second message 850, the network node(s) (e.g., gNB 825A, 825B) forwards the second message 850 or the information related to congestion to the LMF 820 (e.g., via NRPPa signaling). In an active mechanism, the UE(s) 810A, 810B may alternatively or additionally report such information directly to the LMF 820 (e.g., via LPP). The UE(s) 810A, 810B may report to the LMF 820 upon request or without request. The second message 850 is sent by the UE(s) 810A, 810B and / or the gNB(s) 825A, 825B only when one or more metrics reach below / above a certain value (pre)configured by the network. Figure 8 As shown, if UE 810B determines that the SL CBR is higher than the (pre-)configured value 0.8 (ie, SL CBR>0.8), UE 810B may inform the LMF of the SL CBR.

[0190] Additional general elements of the mechanisms according to the present disclosure include a network (e.g., LMF) determining and notifying users (i.e., user equipment, UE) in and around a specific area (e.g., a cell) and neighboring cells and corresponding network entities (e.g., gNB) using a first message (e.g., assistance data). The first message may, for example, indicate one or more of the following: a list of one or more positioning technologies (e.g., positioning services related to one or more positioning technologies) that are not available or recommended in a specific area within a specific time. For example, due to severe congestion on DL traffic, DL-TDoA is not possible in a specific area (e.g., a cell) within a specific time (e.g., the next 10 minutes). Alternatively, the list may indicate one or more alternative positioning technologies (e.g., positioning services related to one or more alternative positioning technologies) available in a specific area within a specific time, such as switching to SL-based or RAT-independent technologies (e.g., GNSS). The network (i.e., LMF) may send the first message to the UE via broadcast, multicast, or dedicated unicast signaling.

[0191] The reason why a positioning technology is unavailable or not recommended may be congestion, thereby preventing the timely transmission of positioning related messages, but it may also be an external interference source that prevents the successful reception of DL PRS. Similarly, an attacker can interfere with DL PRS transmissions, thereby producing inaccurate positioning measurements. According to the mechanism of the present disclosure, if such observations related to a specific positioning technology are reported to the LMF, then the LMF can guide the UE to an alternative positioning technology, for example, switching from a Uu-based positioning technology to a SL or RAT-independent positioning technology.

[0192] According to the mechanism of the present disclosure, upon receiving a first message (e.g., assistance data, warning indication) from a network, (multiple) UEs perform one or more of the following based on the content of the first message. For example, (multiple) UEs may defer or reduce the exchange of mobile initiated positioning requests (MO-LRs) or positioning related messages associated with new or ongoing positioning sessions using the indicated positioning technology (e.g., UL-based or DL-based positioning) that is expected to suffer from positioning QoS and / or integrity (i.e., the positioning technology indicated by the first message). (Multiple) UEs may defer or reduce MO-LRs, etc., for at least a specific time, distance, or other threshold indicated in the first message.

[0193] Alternatively, the (multiple) UEs may also utilize a recommended or alternative positioning technology that is different from the positioning technology indicated as suffering from positioning QoS and / or integrity (for example, if UL-based or DL-based positioning is indicated as suffering from positioning QoS, utilize SL-based positioning or RAT-independent positioning technology), at least within a specific time, distance or other threshold associated with reduced positioning QoS and / or integrity (i.e., the time, distance or other threshold indicated in the first message).

[0194] Other general elements of the mechanism according to the present disclosure include the selection of UE for congestion / positioning QoS indication. That is, in order to avoid unsolicited indication of congestion / positioning QoS sent from the UE to the network (which may generate additional congestion on the network), one or more of the following are utilized.

[0195] In a first variant, the network may select and indicate one or more UEs (or a group of UEs) in a specific area for reporting network congestion and / or positioning QoS. Based on the minimum overhead caused by congestion reporting, the selection of one or more UEs may be implemented to report network congestion. For example, (multiple) UEs with dedicated UL grants may be selected to use such UL resources to report congestion. In this case, the LMF may issue a new information element (IE) via NRPPa as part of the NG-RAN process, requesting identification of one or more UEs with dedicated UL resources from the gNB serving the identified congested area. The LMF may then request reporting of network congestion and / or positioning QoS from one or more UEs.

[0196] In a second variant, selection of one or more UEs may be implemented based on minimum SL resource overhead. In this case, the LMF may select UEs that have issued SL broadcast messages so that there is no additional overhead on the SL broadcast caused by the UE reporting congestion to other peer UEs via SL.

[0197] In a third variant, selection of one or more UEs may be implemented based on the current location of the UE (taking into account that this information is still available and has not been corrupted). In some examples, a clustering algorithm (e.g., k-means clustering) may be used, which allows the congested area to be divided into a certain number of sub-areas (e.g., k clusters in the case of k-means clustering), and then one UE per sub-area is selected (e.g., for k-means clustering, for each of the k clusters, the UE closest to the cluster centroid or cluster center of the respective cluster may be selected). In some examples, the congested area may be divided per TRP or per gNB, etc. In other examples, dividing the congested area may be implemented per user hotspot (e.g., determined by user density and coarse location).

[0198] When (multiple) UEs provide congestion / positioning QoS indications to the network, (multiple) UEs may also announce the congestion / positioning QoS indications on the SL (via broadcast messages). This allows other UEs on the SL to receive the congestion / positioning QoS indications so that these UEs are also notified of experiencing network congestion backoff. The indication may also be based on receiving an acknowledgment (ACK) from the network, i.e., when the UE sends an indication to the network, the network may send a DL broadcast ACK message or a DL multicast ACK message so that other UEs that receive the ACK do not send another indication to the network.

[0199] Now, an example method of controlling a location service according to some embodiments of the present disclosure will be described.

[0200] Fig. 9 A flow chart of a method 900 for controlling a location service according to some embodiments is shown. The method 900 is performed by a user device (e.g., user equipment (UE)), or by an apparatus used in a user device. For example, the user device may be represented by any wireless device, such as, for example, as described above with reference to Figure 1 UEs 110A-110B of the wireless network 100 described above, or as described above with reference to Figure 2 A wireless device 110 is described.

[0201] The user equipment 110 is connected to the network 100 and served by the network 100. More specifically, the user equipment 110 is located in an area (i.e., cell 115) served by a base station (e.g., gNB 120A, 120B) and uses services such as positioning services related to positioning technologies. Positioning technologies may be provided or supported by the network 100. For example, the network 100 may include a network node (e.g., network node 130) or a network function that provides a location management function (LMF). The LMF is a network entity in the 5G core network (5GC), and the LMF supports functions such as UE location determination, downlink location measurement or location estimation from the UE, uplink location measurement from the NG RAN, and non-UE associated assistance data from the NG RAN.

[0202] For example, the positioning technology may include RAT-dependent positioning technology (e.g., DL TDoA, AoD, UL TDoA, MultiRTT, SL TDoA, SL RTT, etc.).

[0203] At box 920, the user equipment receives a first message (e.g., assistance data) from the network. The first message indicates or is related to the degradation of a positioning technology (also referred to as a first positioning technology) related to the positioning service. The degradation of the positioning technology may be caused by congestion in the network, for example, due to a (very large) number of requests related to the positioning technology. Other reasons that may lead to degradation include interference with the network, attacks, etc. The first message may be received from the network via broadcast, multicast, or dedicated unicast signaling. According to some examples that will be described in more detail below, the first message may be received from a network node (e.g., LMF) of the network. In this case, the first message is received via the LPP protocol. According to some other examples that will also be described in more detail below, the user equipment may receive the first message from a base station (e.g., gNB) of a serving cell. In this case, the first message is received via RRC.

[0204] In some examples, the first message includes at least one of the following: an indication indicating that one or more positioning QoS requirements for the positioning technology are not guaranteed, an indication indicating that limited QoS can be guaranteed (e.g., a warning), and an indication indicating that one or more positioning integrity requirements for the positioning service are not guaranteed. Examples of (multiple) positioning QoS requirements include at least one of latency, time to alert (TTA), or accuracy. Examples of (multiple) positioning integrity requirements include one or more KPIs. The indication may also be further used to indicate that (multiple) positioning QoS requirements / (multiple) positioning integrity requirements are not guaranteed for a specified area and / or a specified time. The specified area may involve one or more cells (e.g., a cell serving a user equipment), one or more transmission and reception points (TRPs), one or more roadside units (RSUs), and / or areas outside the coverage area (e.g., neighboring cells). In some examples, the specified area may be represented by one or more identifiers of a cell, a TRP, and / or an RSU, and may be defined as a list. In some examples, the indication indicating that limited QoS can be guaranteed (i.e., a warning) may also be used to indicate that a specific accuracy or latency within a specific range or above / below a threshold can be guaranteed.

[0205] At block 930, in response to receiving the first message from the network, the user equipment controls the positioning service based on the first message. Based on the first message, the user equipment is notified of the degradation of the positioning technology. That is, the user equipment is notified that the positioning technology is not available or at least does not provide reliable positioning results because the positioning QoS requirements (multiple) and / or positioning integrity requirements (multiple) for the positioning technology or positioning service cannot be guaranteed, for example, in a specific area (e.g., a cell) and / or within a specific time (e.g., 10 minutes).

[0206] Box 930 may also include: the user equipment determines / decides whether to control the positioning service based on the first message. For example, the user equipment may determine / decide that controlling the positioning service is not required. In this case, the user equipment accepts the (possible) degradation of the positioning technology, or may stop using the positioning service related to the positioning technology in a specific area and / or at a specific time. However, if the user equipment determines / decides to control the positioning service, the user equipment uses the information from the first message and controls the positioning service according to the information.

[0207] An example of controlling the positioning service includes postponing sending another positioning request for the positioning service to the network or reducing the number of positioning requests for the positioning service to be sent to the network (block 934). That is, the positioning service is controlled based on the first message or information derived from the first message to postpone transmitting a positioning request transmission related to the positioning technology or reduce the number of positioning request transmissions for the positioning service (i.e., the number of positioning request transmissions related to the positioning technology). The positioning service can also be controlled to postpone exchanging positioning-related messages related to the positioning technology or reduce the number of exchanging positioning-related messages for the positioning service (i.e., the number of exchanging positioning-related messages related to the positioning technology).

[0208] In another example, the user device may control the positioning service to switch to an alternative positioning technology (box 936). In this case, the first message may include recommendation information related to one or more positioning technologies. The recommendation information may indicate at least one positioning technology that is unavailable (e.g., in a specific area and / or within a specific time). Additionally or alternatively, the recommendation information may indicate at least one positioning technology that is available (e.g., in a specific area and / or within a specific time). The recommendation information may also indicate one or more alternative positioning technologies (also referred to as second positioning technologies) that can be used by the positioning service of the user device. The user device may select from one or more alternative positioning technologies. For example, the user device may select one of the alternative positioning technologies supported by the user device. That is, the first message received by the user device includes recommendations related to one or more positioning technologies, thereby indicating to the user device a positioning technology that can be used without being affected by degradation, and recommending switching to one of the alternative positioning technologies to avoid the impact of degradation on positioning. If the first message includes recommendation information and / or an indication of one or more alternative positioning technologies, the user device may determine whether one of the alternative positioning technologies is supported. If the user equipment determines that more than one alternative positioning technology is supported, the user equipment may determine / decide which of the supported alternative positioning technologies to select based on certain factors (e.g., reliability, accuracy, processing / signaling requirements, etc.) In response to the selection, the user equipment controls the positioning service to switch to the selected alternative positioning technology (block 936).

[0209] Examples of alternative positioning technologies include SL-based positioning services and / or RAT-independent positioning services.

[0210] In some examples, Fig. 9 The illustrated method 900 may also include: the user equipment determines congestion status information related to congestion, ultimately resulting in degradation of the positioning technology, and sends a second message including the congestion status information to the network (block 910). That is, the user equipment sends a corresponding indication that the positioning technology may be affected by the degradation. For example, the congestion status information indicates one or more network performance metrics related to congestion.

[0211] In block 910, the user equipment determines congestion status information (e.g., network traffic congestion) about at least one of SL, UL, or DL ​​by determining that positioning QoS and / or positioning integrity are not satisfied. In some examples, the user equipment may determine positioning QoS / positioning integrity for positioning (e.g., for positioning technology used by a positioning service of the user equipment) on at least one of SL, UL, or DL ​​for multiple positioning requests (i.e., a number exceeding a predetermined threshold). The reason for non-satisfaction may be related to congestion on at least one of SL, UL, or DL, thereby avoiding timely transmission of positioning-related signals or messages (i.e., positioning requests).

[0212] For example, (network traffic) congestion may take into account information about the congestion state of one or more network performance metrics. Example network performance metrics include at least one of the following: delay, throughput, latency, packet loss rate, number of user devices per specific area (e.g., cell), number of occupied radio resources, interference measured on resources, occurrence of predefined events. Example network performance metrics may also be associated with positioning technology or positioning services related to positioning services for user equipment, and specifically take into account the number of user devices requesting positioning technology within a specific time period and / or within a specific area (e.g., cell), and / or the average latency of positioning requests within a specific time period and / or within a specific area.

[0213] As described above, the user equipment may determine the congestion status information by applying one or more predetermined thresholds and determining, for example, whether one or more of the network performance metrics exceeds a predetermined threshold (i.e., a predetermined threshold corresponding to one of the network performance metrics). The one or more thresholds may be configured in the user equipment by the network. For example, the user equipment may receive a configuration including the one or more thresholds or an indication related to the one or more thresholds from the network.

[0214] In block 910, the user equipment sends a second message to the network in response to the determination. The second message may be sent to the gNB (e.g., via RRC) or the LMF (via the LPP protocol).

[0215] In some examples, the user equipment may send a second message indicating that the positioning technology may be affected by the degradation to the network unsolicited or in response to receiving a corresponding request from the network (block 910). That is, the user equipment may receive a request from the network for information about congestion. In some examples, the request may be explicit (e.g., by including the request in a configuration received from the network) or implicit (e.g., by receiving a configuration and / or one or more thresholds).

[0216] Fig. 9 The illustrated method 900 achieves high QoS availability and continuity for positioning, and / or allows for dynamic offloading of traffic on at least one of UL, DL, or SL based on congestion / load conditions in the network. In essence, based on a first message (i.e., assistance data, warning) received from the network, the user equipment (s) is enabled to defer future positioning requests and / or switch to recommended positioning techniques (s), thereby avoiding the user equipment (s) from suffering positioning QoS (e.g., network latency) and helping to offload congested traffic.

[0217] According to some embodiments, Fig. 9 The method 900 may be performed by a wireless device (eg, user equipment or UE), or by an apparatus used in a wireless device. Fig.10 In some embodiments, the wireless device 110 may include a control module 1010 for receiving a first message (e.g., assistance data) from a network and a control module 1010 for controlling a positioning service according to the first message. The wireless device 110 may also include a configuration module 1020 for configuring the wireless device 110 based on information (e.g., configuration) received from the network, an execution module 1030 for performing positioning services, a positioning module 1040 for performing positioning measurements and calculating a position, and / or a positioning QoS / integrity module 1050 for monitoring and determining positioning QoS / integrity associated with positioning measurements. The configuration module 1020 may also be used to configure the positioning service used by the wireless device 110 based on the information in the first message and / or the configuration received from the network.

[0218] Fig.11 A flow chart of a method 1100 for controlling a positioning service according to some embodiments is shown. The method 1100 is performed by a network or by a device used in a network. More specifically, the method 1100 may be performed by a network node or a network function (e.g., a gNB, a LMF). For example, the network node may be represented by any one of the network nodes, such as the one described above with reference to Figure 1 The gNB 120A-120B described above or the network node 130 of the wireless network 100, or the network node 130 of the wireless network 100, Figure 3A radio access node 120 or a network node 130 is depicted.

[0219] The user equipment 110 is connected to the network 100 and served by the network 100. More specifically, the user equipment 110 is located in an area (i.e., cell 115) served by a base station (e.g., gNB 120A, 120B) and uses services such as positioning services related to positioning technologies. Positioning technologies may be supported or served by the network 100. For example, the network 100 may include a network node (e.g., network node 130) or a network function that provides a location management function (LMF). The LMF is a network entity in the 5G core network (5GC), and the LMF supports functionality such as UE location determination, downlink location measurement or location estimation from the UE, uplink location measurement from the NG RAN, and non-UE associated assistance data from the NG RAN.

[0220] For example, positioning technologies may include RAT-dependent positioning services (e.g., DL TDoA, AoD, UL TDoA, MultiRTT, SL TDoA, SL RTT, etc.).

[0221] At block 1120, the network determines a degradation of a positioning technology (also referred to as a first positioning technology). The degradation of the positioning technology may be caused by congestion in the network, for example, due to a (very large) number of requests related to the positioning technology. Other reasons that may lead to degradation include interference with the network, attacks, etc. The congestion may be on one or more of the SL, UL, and DL.

[0222] In some examples, the network may observe the positioning technology (block 1110) and, based on the observations, determine that the positioning technology may be affected by degradation (block 1120). For example, the network may observe that the positioning QoS cannot be met for the number and / or rate of positioning requests in a particular area (e.g., a cell), observe that one or more positioning integrity KPIs are not met, and observe that the number of rejected messages and / or error messages related to the positioning technology exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0223] In some examples, the determination in block 1120 may also be based on an indication received from the user equipment along with the second message that the positioning technology may be affected by degradation (block 1110).

[0224] The second message may first be sent by the user equipment to the base station (i.e., gNB) of the serving cell, for example, via RRC, and then sent from the base station to the LMF, for example, via NRPPa. The second message may also be sent directly by the user equipment to the LMF, for example, via LLP. In some examples, the user equipment may send an unsolicited indication. In other examples, the network (i.e., LMF and / or gNB) may request the user equipment to indicate that the positioning technology may be affected by degradation. Therefore, the second message is sent by the user equipment in response to receiving a request from the network. The request may be explicit (e.g., by including the request in a configuration received from the network) or implicit (e.g., by receiving a configuration and / or one or more thresholds). In some examples, the network may select one or more user equipment from a plurality of user equipments (e.g., in a particular area) to provide an indication that the positioning technology may be affected by degradation, and notify the selected (multiple) user equipments to provide the indication. That is, the selected (multiple) user equipments may be requested to provide the second message. The network's selection of one or more user equipments may be based on specific (pre)defined factors, including the minimum overhead caused by providing the indication, the minimum SL resource overhead, the current location of the user equipment, etc.

[0225] As already mentioned above Fig. 9 As described, the user equipment may determine congestion, which ultimately leads to the degradation of the positioning technology, and then may send a second message to the network indicating that the positioning technology may be affected by the degradation. That is, the second message may indicate that network traffic congestion may lead to the degradation of the positioning technology. For example, the second message and / or the network traffic congestion may include information about the congestion state of one or more network performance metrics. Example network performance metrics include at least one of the following: delay, throughput, latency, packet loss rate, the number of user equipment per specific area (e.g., cell), the number of occupied radio resources, interference measured on resources, and the occurrence of predefined events. The example network performance metric may also be associated with one or more positioning technologies and / or include one or more positioning services used by the user equipment, and specifically consider the number of user equipment requesting the positioning technology within a specific time period and / or within a specific area (e.g., cell), and / or the average latency of the positioning request for the positioning technology in a specific time period and / or in a specific area.

[0226] If already referenced Fig. 9 As described, the user equipment may determine congestion based on one or more predetermined thresholds. In this case, the second message may indicate that one or more example network performance metrics are below / above a predetermined threshold. In some examples, the network may configure the one or more thresholds by sending a configuration including the one or more thresholds to the user equipment.

[0227] In response to determining the degradation of the positioning service (block 1120), in block 1130, the network transmits a first message (e.g., assistance data) to the user equipment related to the degradation of the positioning technology. The first message instructs the user equipment to control the positioning service based on the first message, as described above with reference to Fig. 9 Examples of control include the user equipment deferring sending a positioning request for a positioning technology, reducing the number of positioning requests for a positioning technology, or switching to an alternative positioning technology.

[0228] The first message may be sent by the network via broadcast, multicast or dedicated unicast signaling. According to some examples, the first message may be sent directly to the user equipment by the LMF via LPP, or first sent to a base station (e.g., gNB) via NRPPa and then sent to the user equipment via RRC.

[0229] In some examples, the first message includes at least one of the following: an indication indicating that one or more positioning QoS requirements for the positioning technology are not guaranteed, an indication indicating that limited QoS can be guaranteed (e.g., a warning), and / or an indication indicating that one or more positioning integrity requirements for the positioning technology are not guaranteed. Examples of (multiple) positioning QoS requirements include at least one of latency, time to alert (TTA), or accuracy. Examples of (multiple) positioning integrity requirements include one or more KPIs. The indication may also be further used to indicate that (multiple) positioning QoS requirements / (multiple) positioning integrity requirements are not guaranteed for a specified area and / or a specified time. The specified area may involve one or more cells (e.g., a cell serving a user equipment and / or a neighboring cell), one or more transmission and reception points (TRPs), one or more roadside units (RSUs), and / or an area outside the coverage area (e.g., a neighboring cell). In some examples, the specified area may be represented by one or more identifiers of a cell, a TRP, and / or an RSU, and may be defined as a list. In some examples, the indication indicating that limited QoS can be guaranteed (i.e., a warning) may also be used to indicate that a specific accuracy or latency within a specific range or above / below a threshold can be guaranteed.

[0230] In some examples, in order to guide the user equipment to switch to an alternative positioning technology, the first message may include recommendation information indicating at least one positioning technology that is unavailable and / or at least one positioning technology that is available (for example, in a specific area and / or within a specific time). Additionally or alternatively, the first message may indicate an alternative positioning technology (also referred to as a second positioning technology) to which the user equipment can switch. That is, the first message includes a recommendation for one or more alternative positioning technologies to indicate to the user equipment that switching to one of these alternative positioning technologies avoids any impact related to positioning due to degradation of the positioning technology. The recommendation / indication of one or more alternative positioning technologies is also used to indicate to the user equipment whether one of the one or more alternative positioning technologies is supported, select one of the supported alternative positioning technologies, and control the positioning service of the user equipment to switch to the selected alternative positioning technology.

[0231] Examples of alternative positioning technologies include SL-based positioning services and / or RAT-independent positioning services.

[0232] Fig.11 The illustrated method 1100 achieves high QoS availability and continuity for positioning, and / or allows for dynamic offloading of traffic on at least one of UL, DL, or SL based on congestion / load conditions in the network. In essence, the network enables (multiple) user devices to postpone future positioning requests and / or switch to recommended (multiple) positioning technologies based on the first message (e.g., assistance data, warnings, etc.), thereby avoiding (multiple) user devices from suffering positioning QoS (e.g., network latency) and helping to offload congested traffic.

[0233] Reference Fig.12 In some embodiments, the radio access node 120 or the network node 130 may include a transceiver module 1210 for transmitting a first message (e.g., assistance data) related to the degradation of the positioning technology, and a positioning QoS / integrity module 1220 for determining the degradation of the positioning technology. The transceiver module 1210 may also transmit and receive positioning-related messages, such as capability requests / responses, positioning information, and reports. The positioning QoS / integrity module 1220 may also determine (multiple) integrity-related parameters associated with the user equipment and determine the integrity associated with the estimated position of the user equipment.

[0234] Now go to Figures 13 to 16 , a method of controlling a location service according to some embodiments will be described with reference to an example message sequence chart.

[0235] Example message sequence diagrams illustrate messages exchanged between user equipment / network nodes of a network and operations performed by the user equipment / network nodes of a network. For example, a network (e.g., a 5G network or above) may include: Figure 1 The network may also include one or more network nodes (e.g., Figure 3 One or more example network nodes shown, or apparatus for use in such example network nodes) and one or more wireless devices (e.g., Figure 2 One or more user equipments shown, such as (multiple) UEs, or apparatus for use in such user equipments).

[0236] More specifically, in the example message sequence diagram, the network includes a core network entity (e.g., LMF) that provides one or more positioning technologies or positioning services related to positioning technologies and is connected to one or more base stations (e.g., gNB1, gNB2) serving at least one cell. In addition, one or more user equipments (e.g., UE1, UE2) may be located in at least one cell and served by one or more base stations (e.g., gNB1, gNB2).

[0237] Fig.13 An example message sequence diagram of a method for controlling a location service according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, Fig.13 The example message sequence chart of considers the LMF in indicating (active / passive) warnings regarding SL conditions of network congestion and / or positioning QoS from a UE using the LPP protocol.

[0238] like Fig.13 As shown, UE1 determines network traffic congestion that causes degradation of positioning technology (i.e., positioning technology provided by LMF and used by UE1) (steps 1310 and 1320). For example, UE1 can use positioning services via SL and perform SL positioning and SL measurements (e.g., SL CBR) by sending and receiving positioning requests / responses (step 1310). Based on this, UE1 can determine, for example, based on indications received from the network or other (multiple) UEs, that SL positioning QoS is not met (e.g., SL positioning QoS does not meet a predetermined threshold) and that there is SL congestion (step 1320).

[0239] In response to determining that the network traffic is congested, UE1 notifies the network of the network traffic congestion (step 1330). For example, when UE1 is served by gNB1, UE1 notifies LMF that the positioning QoS for multiple SL positioning requests (i.e., the number below / above a predetermined threshold) is not satisfied. Here, UE1 can notify LMF by sending a second message via LPP.

[0240] Based on the indication or information about network traffic congestion, the network (i.e., LMF) determines a first message (e.g., assistance data) to be provided to the base station (s) and / or the user equipment (s) (step 1340). The first message indicates the degradation of the positioning technology and may also recommend (or indicate) one or more alternative positioning technologies that are not degraded and can be used instead of the degraded positioning technology.

[0241] The first message is transmitted directly to UE1 (eg, via LPP) to inform UE1 that positioning QoS is not guaranteed and to recommend alternative positioning techniques (step 1350). The first message may also be sent to other user equipment(s) (eg, UE2) via LPP (step 1360).

[0242] Fig.14 Another example message sequence diagram of a method for controlling a location service according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, Fig.14 The example message sequence chart of considers the LMF in indicating (active / passive) warnings regarding SL conditions of network congestion and / or positioning QoS from UE using NRPPa and RRC protocols.

[0243] As reference Fig.13 As described above, UE1 determines network traffic congestion that leads to degradation of positioning technology (steps 1410 and 1420). However, as opposed to directly notifying the LMF, UE1 notifies the (serving) base station gNB1 of the network traffic congestion (step 1430). For example, UE1 notifies gNB1 that the positioning QoS of multiple SL positioning requests (i.e., a number below / above a predetermined threshold) in the area served by gNB1 is not met. Here, UE1 can notify gNB1 by sending a second message via RRC. In addition, UE1 can also report the SL CBR to gNB1.

[0244] In response to receiving the information from UE1, gNB1 may send or forward corresponding information to LMF (step 1440). For example, gNB1 notifies LMF that the positioning QoS of multiple SL positioning requests (i.e., the number below / above a predetermined threshold) in the area served by gNB1 is not met. The information is sent via NRPPa.

[0245] If already referenced Fig.13 As described, the network (i.e., LMF) determines a first message (e.g., assistance data) to be provided to (multiple) base stations and / or (multiple) user equipments (step 1450). The first message indicates a degradation of the positioning technology and may also recommend / indicate an alternative positioning technology that is not degraded and can be used instead of the degraded positioning technology.

[0246] The first message is transmitted to gNB1 (e.g., via NRPPa) to notify that positioning QoS is not guaranteed and an alternative positioning technology is recommended (step 1460). The first message is then sent (e.g., broadcast) to UE1 (e.g., via RRC) (step 1470). The first message may also be sent to other (multiple) base stations (e.g., gNB2) via NRPPa (step 1480), and then broadcast to other (multiple) user equipments (e.g., UE2) via RRC (step 1490).

[0247] Fig.15 Another example message sequence diagram of a method for controlling a location service according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, Fig.15 The example message sequence chart of considers LMP (active / passive) warning when indicating UL / DL network congestion and / or positioning QoS from the gNB, where the UE is notified using the LPP protocol.

[0248] like Fig.15 As shown, a base station (e.g., gNB1) determines network traffic congestion that causes degradation of a positioning technology (i.e., a positioning technology provided by the LMF and used by UE1) (steps 1510 and 1520). For example, gNB1 may perform positioning on UL and / or DL ​​and measurements on UL and / or DL ​​(e.g., DL latency) based on a positioning request / response processed by gNB1 (step 1510). Based on this, gNB1 may determine, for example based on an indication received from the network or other (multiple) UEs, that the positioning QoS on UL and / or DL ​​is not met (e.g., the positioning QoS on UL and / or DL ​​does not meet a predetermined threshold) and that there is congestion on UL and / or DL ​​(step 1520).

[0249] In response to determining that the network traffic is congested, gNB1 notifies the network of the network traffic congestion (step 1530). For example, gNB1 notifies LMF of congestion on UL and / or DL ​​(e.g., DL latency exceeds a predetermined threshold). Here, gNB1 can notify LMF via NRPPa.

[0250] If already referenced Fig.13 As described, the network (i.e., LMF) determines a first message (e.g., assistance data) to be provided to (multiple) base stations and / or (multiple) user equipments (step 1540). The first message indicates the degradation of the positioning technology and may also recommend / indicate an alternative positioning technology that is not degraded and can be used instead of the degraded positioning technology.

[0251] The first message is transmitted directly to UE1 (eg, via LPP) to inform UE1 that positioning QoS is not guaranteed and to recommend alternative positioning techniques (step 1550). The first message may also be sent to other user equipment(s) (eg, UE2) via LPP (step 1560).

[0252] Fig.16 Another example message sequence diagram of a method for controlling a location service according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. More specifically, Fig.16 The example message sequence chart considers an (active / passive) warning from the LMF when indicating network congestion (e.g., on UL and / or DL) and / or positioning QoS from the gNB, where the UE is notified using NRPPa and RRC protocols.

[0253] As reference Fig.15 As described above, the base station (e.g., gNB1) determines network traffic congestion that causes degradation of positioning technology (steps 1610 and 1620). For example, gNB1 may perform positioning on UL and / or DL ​​and measurements on UL and / or DL ​​(e.g., DL latency) based on the positioning request / response processed by gNB1 (step 1610), and determine, for example, based on indications received from the network or other (multiple) UEs that the positioning QoS on UL and / or DL ​​is not met (e.g., the positioning QoS does not meet a predetermined threshold) and there is congestion on UL and / or DL ​​(step 1620). In response to determining network traffic congestion, gNB1 notifies the network of the network traffic congestion (step 1630). For example, gNB1 notifies the LMF of the congestion on UL and / or DL ​​(e.g., DL latency exceeds a predetermined threshold) via NRPPa.

[0254] If already referenced Fig.13 As described, the network (i.e., LMF) determines a first message (e.g., assistance data) to be provided to (multiple) base stations and / or (multiple) user equipments (step 1640). The first message indicates a degradation of the positioning technology and may also recommend / indicate an alternative positioning technology that is not degraded and can be used instead of the degraded positioning technology.

[0255] The first message is transmitted to gNB1 (e.g., via NRPPa) to notify that positioning QoS for DL-TDoA using gNB1 is not guaranteed (for example) and an alternative positioning technology is recommended (step 1650). The first message is then sent (e.g., broadcast) to UE1 (e.g., via RRC) (step 1660). The first message may also be sent to other (multiple) base stations (e.g., gNB2) via NRPPa (step 1670) and then broadcast to other (multiple) user equipments (e.g., UE2) via RRC (step 1680).

[0256] Finally, now turn to Fig.17 , some network nodes (e.g., UE 110, radio access node 120, core network node 130, etc.) in the wireless communication network 100 may be partially or even completely virtualized. As a virtualized entity, some or all functions of a given network node are implemented as one or more virtual network functions (VNFs) running in a virtual machine (VM) hosted on a generally general-purpose processing node 1700 (or server).

[0257] Processing node 1700 generally includes hardware infrastructure 1702 that supports a virtualized environment 1704 .

[0258] The hardware infrastructure 1702 typically includes processing circuitry 1706 , memory 1708 , and communication interface(s) 1710 .

[0259] Processing circuit system 1706 generally provides overall control of the hardware infrastructure 1702 of virtualized processing node 1700. Thus, processing circuit system 1706 is generally responsible for various functions of hardware infrastructure 1702, either directly or indirectly via one or more other components of processing node 1700 (e.g., sending or receiving messages via communication interface 1710). Processing circuit system 1706 is also responsible for enabling, supporting, and managing the virtualized environment 1704 in which the various VNFs run. Processing circuit system 1706 may include any suitable combination of hardware to enable the hardware infrastructure 1702 of virtualized processing node 1700 to perform its functions.

[0260] In some embodiments, the processing circuit system 1706 may include at least one processor 1712 and at least one memory 1714. Examples of processor 1712 include, but are not limited to, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), and other forms of processing units. Examples of memory 1714 include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM). When the processing circuit system 1706 includes memory 1714, the memory 1714 is typically configured to store instructions or codes that can be executed by the processor 1712, as well as possible operating data. The processor 1712 is then configured to execute the stored instructions and may create, transform, or otherwise manipulate data to enable the hardware infrastructure 1702 of the virtualized processing node 1700 to perform its functions.

[0261] Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, processing circuit system 1706 may include or further include one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), one or more field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other forms of dedicated and / or programmable circuit systems. When processing circuit system 1706 includes dedicated and / or programmable circuit systems (e.g., ASICs, FPGAs), hardware infrastructure 1702 of virtualized processing node 1700 can perform its functions without requiring instructions or code because the necessary instructions can have been hardwired or preprogrammed into processing circuit system 1706. It is understood that processing circuit system 1706 may include a combination of processor(s) 1712, memory(s) 1714, and other dedicated and / or programmable circuit systems.

[0262] Communication interface(s) 1710 enable virtualized processing node 1700 to send and receive messages to and from other network nodes (e.g., radio network nodes, other core network nodes, servers, etc.). In this sense, communication interface 1710 typically includes the necessary hardware and software to process messages received from processing circuitry 1706 to be sent by virtualized processing node 1700 into a format suitable for the underlying transport network, and conversely, to process messages received from other network nodes over the underlying transport network into a format suitable for processing circuitry 1706. Thus, communication interface 1710 may include appropriate hardware, such as transport network interface(s) 1716 (e.g., ports, modems, network interface cards, etc.) and software, including protocol conversion and data processing capabilities, to communicate with other network nodes.

[0263] The virtualization environment 1704 is enabled by instructions or codes stored on the memory 1708 and / or the memory 1714. The virtualization environment 1704 generally includes a virtualization layer 1718 (also referred to as a hypervisor), at least one virtual machine 1720, and at least one VNF 1722. The functionality of the processing node 1700 may be implemented by one or more VNFs 1722.

[0264] It should be understood that the apparatus may include or be coupled to other units or modules, etc., such as a radio part or radio head, used in or for transmitting and / or receiving. Although the apparatus has been described as one entity, the different modules and memories may be implemented in one or more physical or logical entities.

[0265] Note that while embodiments have been described with respect to LTE and 5G NR, similar principles may be applied with respect to other networks and communication systems that require forced fast connection reestablishment. Thus, while specific embodiments are described above by way of example with reference to specific example architectures for wireless networks, technologies, and standards, the embodiments may be applied to any other suitable form of communication system in addition to the communication system shown and described herein.

[0266] It is also noted herein that while the above describes example embodiments, there are several variations and modifications which may be made to the disclosed solution without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0267] In general, various example embodiments may be implemented in hardware or dedicated circuits, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented in hardware, while other aspects may be implemented in firmware or software that may be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Although various aspects of the present disclosure may be shown and described as block diagrams, flow charts, or using some other graphical representations, it is well understood that, as non-limiting examples, these blocks, devices, systems, techniques, or methods described herein may be implemented in hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuits or logic, general-purpose hardware or controllers or other computing devices, or some combination thereof.

[0268] The example embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented by computer software (e.g., in a processor entity) executable by a data processor of a mobile device or by hardware or by a combination of software and hardware. Computer software or programs (also referred to as program products, including software routines, applets, and / or macros) may be stored in any device-readable data storage medium, and they include program instructions for performing specific tasks. A computer program product may include one or more computer executable components that are configured to perform an embodiment when the program is running. One or more computer executable components may be at least one software code or part of a software code.

[0269] Furthermore, it should be noted in this regard that any block of the logic flow as in the accompanying drawings may represent program steps, or interconnected logic circuits, blocks and functions, or a combination of program steps and logic circuits, blocks and functions. The software may be stored on physical media such as memory chips or memory blocks implemented within a processor, magnetic media such as hard disks or floppy disks, and optical media such as DVDs and data variant CDs. Physical media are non-transitory media.

[0270] The memory may be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and may be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor-based memory devices, magnetic memory devices and systems, optical memory devices and systems, fixed memory, and removable memory. As non-limiting examples, the data processor may be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and may include one or more of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an FPGA, a gate-level circuit, and a processor based on a multi-core processor architecture.

[0271] Example embodiments of the present disclosure can be practiced in various components such as integrated circuit modules. The design of integrated circuits is a highly automated process. Complex and powerful software tools are available to convert logic level designs into semiconductor circuit designs that are ready to be etched and formed on semiconductor substrates.

[0272] The foregoing description has provided by way of non-limiting examples a complete and informative description of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. However, various modifications and adaptations may become apparent to those skilled in the relevant art in view of the foregoing description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. However, all such modifications and similar modifications of the teachings of the present invention will still fall within the scope of the disclosure as defined in the appended claims. In fact, there is another embodiment comprising a combination of one or more embodiments with any other embodiment previously discussed.

Claims

1. An apparatus in a user equipment (UE), comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory comprising computer program code, wherein the computer program code, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the apparatus to at least: - receiving a first message related to degradation of a first positioning technology related to the positioning service; as well as - controlling the positioning service based on the first message.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first message comprises at least one of the following: an indication indicating that a positioning service quality QoS requirement for the first positioning technology is not guaranteed, or an indication indicating that a positioning integrity requirement for the positioning service is not guaranteed. 3 . The apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the indication is used to indicate that the positioning QoS requirement is not guaranteed for at least one of a specified area or a specified time.

4. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein in order to control the positioning service, the computer program code, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the apparatus to at least: - deferring the transmission of a positioning request associated with said first positioning technology, or - Reducing the number of said positioning request transmissions for said positioning service.

5. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein in order to control the positioning service, the computer program code, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the apparatus to at least: - deferring the exchange of positioning-related messages related to said first positioning technology; or - Reducing the number of said exchanged positioning related messages for said positioning service. 6 . The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first message comprises recommendation information indicating at least one positioning technology that is unavailable. 7 . The apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first message comprises recommendation information indicating that at least one positioning technology is available.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first message indicates a second positioning technology.

9. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the computer program code, when executed using the at least one processor, further causes the apparatus to at least: - sending a second message comprising congestion status information about one or more network performance metrics related to congestion.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the one or more network performance metrics include at least one of: delay, throughput, latency, packet loss rate, number of user equipments per cell, number of occupied radio resources, interference measured on resources, or occurrence of a predefined event.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the one or more network performance metrics associated with the location service include at least one of: - the number of user equipments requesting said location service within a time period and / or within a region, and - Average latency of requests for the positioning service within the time period and / or within the area.

12. A method for controlling a location service, comprising: - receiving, by a user equipment, a first message related to degradation of a first positioning technology related to the positioning service; as well as - Controlling the positioning service by the user equipment based on the first message.

13. A device in a network, comprising: at least one processor; as well as at least one memory comprising computer program code, wherein the computer program code, when executed by the at least one processor, causes the apparatus to at least: - determining degradation of the first positioning technology; and - transmitting a first message related to the downgrade to a user equipment, wherein the first message triggers the user equipment to control a positioning service related to the first positioning technology based on the first message.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein the first message comprises at least one of the following: an indication indicating that a quality of service (QoS) requirement for the first positioning technology is not guaranteed, or an indication indicating that a positioning integrity requirement for the positioning service is not guaranteed.

15. The apparatus of claim 14, wherein the indication is used to indicate that the positioning QoS requirement is not guaranteed for at least one of a specified area or a specified time. 16 . The apparatus according to claim 13 , wherein the first message comprises recommendation information indicating at least one positioning technology that is unavailable. 17 . The apparatus according to claim 13 , wherein the first message comprises recommendation information indicating that at least one positioning technology is available.

18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the first message indicates a second positioning technology.

19. The apparatus of any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the computer program code, when executed using the at least one processor, further causes the apparatus to at least: - receiving a second message comprising congestion status information regarding one or more network performance metrics related to congestion.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the one or more network performance metrics include at least one of: delay, throughput, latency, packet loss rate, number of user equipments per cell, number of occupied radio resources, interference measured on resources, or occurrence of a predefined event.

21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the one or more network performance metrics associated with the location service include at least one of: - the number of user equipments requesting said location service within a time period and / or within a region, and - Average latency of requests for the positioning service within the time period and / or within the area.

22. A method for controlling a location service, comprising: - determining degradation of the first positioning technology; as well as - transmitting a first message related to the downgrading to a user equipment, wherein the first message triggers the user equipment to control the positioning service related to the first positioning technology based on the first message.

23. A computer program product comprising program instructions stored on a computer readable medium, which program instructions perform the method of claims 12 and 22 when the program is executed on a computer.

24. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising the computer program product according to claim 23.

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