Device, method and apparatus for communication

Abstract

The embodiment of the invention relates to a scheme for managing interference of effective RS configuration in a plurality of cells. In one aspect, a terminal device receives one or more reference signal (RS) configurations from a first network device, the configurations comprising at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells, and at least one RS sequence identification (ID); updating at least one RS sequence ID of at least one sequence based on configuration information including at least one of a device ID or a cell ID of the terminal device; and transmitting an indication of the update of the at least one RS sequence ID. By means of the proposed scheme, interference of efficient RS configurations in multiple cells may be avoided or reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various example embodiments relate to the field of communication technology, and more specifically, to a terminal device, network device, method, apparatus, and computer-readable storage medium for communication. Background Technology

[0002] With the development of communication technology, User Equipment (UE) can be configured with Reference Signals (RS), and the parameters listed in this RS configuration are common to multiple cells. Each serving cell of the UE will be configured with a reference signal that is valid in multiple cells, and the transmission of uplink RS for positioning can be targeted at specific neighboring cells. Each cell can provide its serving UE's RS configuration to neighboring cells and receive additional RS configurations from multiple UEs in neighboring cells. When the configured RS sequence ID is valid in multiple cells, interference problems may occur because multiple UEs will use the same sequence. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Overall, the exemplary embodiments of this disclosure provide a solution for managing RS configuration interference that is effective in multiple cells.

[0004] In a first aspect, a terminal device is provided. The terminal device may include: at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the terminal device to at least: receive one or more reference signal (RS) configurations from a first network device, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells and at least one RS sequence identifier (ID); update at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence based on configuration information including at least one of a device ID or a cell ID of the terminal device; and send an indication of updating at least one RS sequence ID.

[0005] In a second aspect, a first network device is provided. The first network device may include: at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first network device to at least: transmit one or more reference signal (RS) configurations to a terminal device, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells, at least one RS sequence ID, and configuration information used by the terminal device to update at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence, wherein the configuration information is based on at least one of the terminal device's device ID or cell ID; and receive from the terminal device an indication of an update of at least one updated RS sequence ID.

[0006] In a third aspect, a second network device is provided. The second network device may include: at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the second network device to at least: receive at least one updated reference signal (RS) sequence ID from at least one of a terminal device or a serving network device of the terminal device, wherein the at least one updated RS sequence ID is updated for one or more RS configurations, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence configured by the serving network device and valid in a plurality of cells.

[0007] In a fourth aspect, a method is provided. The method may include: receiving one or more reference signal (RS) configurations from a first network device by a terminal device, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells and at least one sequence identifier (ID); updating at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence based on configuration information including at least one of the device ID or cell ID of the terminal device; and sending an indication of updating at least one RS sequence ID.

[0008] In a fifth aspect, a method is provided. The method may include: a first network device sending one or more reference signal (RS) configurations to a terminal device, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells, at least one RS sequence identifier (ID), and configuration information used by the terminal device to update at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence, wherein the configuration information is based on at least one of the terminal device's device ID or cell ID; and receiving from the terminal device an indication of an update of at least one updated RS sequence ID.

[0009] In a sixth aspect, a method is provided. This method may include: receiving, by a second network device, at least one updated Reference Signal (RS) Identifier (ID) sequence ID from at least one of a terminal device or a serving network device of the terminal device, wherein the at least one updated RS sequence ID is updated for one or more RS configurations, said one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence configured by the serving network device and valid in a plurality of cells.

[0010] In a seventh aspect, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus may include: components for receiving one or more reference signal (RS) configurations from a first network device by a terminal device, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells and at least one sequence identifier (ID); components for updating at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence based on configuration information including at least one of a device ID or a cell ID of the terminal device; and components for sending an indication of updating the at least one RS sequence ID.

[0011] In an eighth aspect, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus may include: components for transmitting one or more reference signal (RS) configurations from a first network device to a terminal device, the one or more reference signal (RS) configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells, at least one RS sequence identifier (ID), and configuration information used by the terminal device to update at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence, wherein the configuration information is based on at least one of the terminal device's device ID or cell ID; and components for receiving an indication of an update of at least one updated RS sequence ID from the terminal device.

[0012] In a ninth aspect, an apparatus is provided. The apparatus may include: components for receiving at least one updated reference signal (RS) sequence ID from at least one of a terminal device or a serving network device of the terminal device, wherein the at least one updated RS sequence ID is updated for one or more RS configurations, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence configured by the serving network device and valid in a plurality of cells.

[0013] In a tenth aspect, a non-transitory computer-readable medium is provided, comprising program instructions for causing a device to execute at least the method according to the fourth or sixth aspect.

[0014] In an eleventh aspect, a computer program including instructions is provided, which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to at least: receive one or more reference signal (RS) configurations from a first network device, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells and at least one RS sequence identifier (ID); update at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence based on configuration information including at least one of a device ID or a cell ID of a terminal device; and send an indication of updating at least one RS sequence ID.

[0015] In a twelfth aspect, a computer program including instructions is provided, which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to at least: send one or more reference signal (RS) configurations to a terminal device, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells, at least one RS sequence identifier (ID), and configuration information used by the terminal device to update at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence, wherein the configuration information is based on at least one of the terminal device's device ID or cell ID; and receive from the terminal device an indication of updating at least one updated RS sequence ID.

[0016] In a thirteenth aspect, a computer program including instructions is provided, which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to at least: receive at least one updated reference signal (RS) sequence identifier (ID) from at least one of a terminal device or a serving network device of the terminal device, wherein the at least one updated RS sequence ID is updated for one or more RS configuration updates including at least one sequence configured by the serving network device and valid in a plurality of cells.

[0017] In a fourteenth aspect, a terminal device is provided. The terminal device may include: a receiving circuitry for receiving one or more reference signal (RS) configurations from a first network device, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells and at least one sequence identifier (ID); an updating circuitry for updating at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence based on configuration information including at least one of a device ID or a cell ID of the terminal device; and a transmitting circuitry for transmitting an indication of an update to at least one RS sequence ID.

[0018] In a fifteenth aspect, a first terminal device is provided. The first terminal device may include: a transmitting circuitry for transmitting one or more reference signal (RS) configurations from a first network device to the terminal device, the one or more reference signal (RS) configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells, at least one RS sequence identifier (ID), and configuration information used by the terminal device to update at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence, wherein the configuration information is based on at least one of the terminal device's device ID or cell ID; and a receiving circuitry for receiving an indication of an update of at least one updated RS sequence ID from the terminal device.

[0019] In a sixteenth aspect, a second terminal device is provided. The second terminal device may include: a receiving circuitry for receiving, by a second network device, at least one updated reference signal (RS) sequence ID from at least one of the terminal device or a serving network device of the terminal device, wherein the at least one updated RS sequence ID is updated for one or more RS configurations configured by the serving network device, including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells.

[0020] It should be understood that the summary section is not intended to identify key or essential features of the embodiments of this disclosure, nor is it intended to limit the scope of this disclosure. Other features of this disclosure will be readily understood from the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0021] The following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, will illustrate some exemplary embodiments, wherein:

[0022] Figure 1An exemplary communication network that can be implemented according to embodiments of this disclosure is shown;

[0023] Figure 2 A schematic example of a broadcast SRS configuration effective in multiple cells according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0024] Figure 3 A flow for updating the RS sequence identifier (ID) of RS configuration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is illustrated;

[0025] Figure 4 A flowchart illustrating an SRS sequence ID for updating an SRS configuration transmitted via broadcast signaling, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown.

[0026] Figure 5 A schematic example of the association between a set of SRS sequences and a cell ID according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0027] Figure 6 A flowchart illustrating an SRS sequence ID for updating an SRS configuration transmitted via dedicated signaling, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, is shown.

[0028] Figure 7 A flowchart is shown illustrating a method implemented on a terminal device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0029] Figure 8 A flowchart is shown illustrating a method implemented on a first network device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 9 A flowchart of a method implemented on a second network device according to other embodiments of the present disclosure is shown;

[0031] Figure 10 A simplified block diagram of an apparatus suitable for implementing embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; and

[0032] Figure 11 A block diagram of an exemplary computer-readable medium according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0033] Throughout the various figures, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements. Detailed Implementation

[0034] The principles of this disclosure will now be explained with reference to some exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are provided merely to facilitate understanding and implementation of this disclosure by those skilled in the art, and are not intended to imply limitation of the scope of protection of this disclosure. The technical solutions described in this disclosure can be implemented in various ways other than those described below.

[0035] In the following description and claims, unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains.

[0036] The terms "an embodiment," "one example," "an exemplary embodiment," etc., used in this disclosure refer to embodiments that may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every embodiment must include that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Moreover, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in association with an embodiment, whether explicitly described or not, those skilled in the art will understand that such feature, structure, or characteristic can also be implemented in association with other embodiments.

[0037] It should be understood that although terms such as “first” and “second” may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used only to distinguish one element from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the exemplary embodiments, a first element may be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may be referred to as a first element. The term “and / or” as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed terms.

[0038] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the exemplary embodiments. As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well. It should also be understood that when terms such as “comprises,” “comprising,” “has,” “having,” “includes,” or “including” are used herein, they indicate the presence of the stated features, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. The phrases “at least one of the following: ” and “at least one of ” and similar expressions used herein mean at least any one of the elements, or at least any two or more of the elements, or at least all of the elements, wherein the two or more elements are connected by “and” or “or”.

[0039] In this application, the term "circuit system" may refer to one or more or all of the following: (a) Hardware circuit-only implementation (e.g., implementation using only analog and / or digital circuit systems); (b) A combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as (if applicable): (i) A combination of analog and / or (one or more) digital hardware circuits with software / firmware; (ii) Any portion of a hardware processor (including one or more digital signal processors), software, and memory (one or more) having software, which work together to enable a device such as a mobile phone or server to perform various functions; (c) One or more hardware circuits and / or one or more processors (e.g., one or more microprocessors or a portion thereof) that require software (e.g. firmware) to function, but the software may not be present when it is not required to function.

[0040] The definition of "circuit system" applies to all uses of the term in this application, including any one of the claims. As a further example, in this application, the term "circuit system" also covers implementations of hardware circuitry or processors (or processors) alone, or a portion thereof, and their accompanying software and / or firmware. For example, and where applicable to specific claim elements, the term "circuit system" also covers baseband integrated circuits or processor integrated circuits for mobile devices, or similar integrated circuits in servers, cellular network devices, or other computing or network devices.

[0041] As used in this application, the term "communication network" refers to a network that conforms to any suitable communication standard, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-A Advanced (LTE-A), Wideband Code Division Multiple Access (WCDMA), High-Speed ​​Packet Access (HSPA), Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT), etc. Furthermore, communication between terminal devices and network devices in a communication network can be performed according to any suitable communication protocol, including but not limited to first-generation (1G), second-generation (2G), 2.5G, 2.75G, third-generation (3G), fourth-generation (4G), 4.5G, future fifth-generation (5G) communication protocols, and / or any other currently known or future-developed protocols. Embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to various communication systems. Given the rapid development of communication technologies, there will naturally be future types of communication technologies and systems that can be used to implement this disclosure. This should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure to the systems described above.

[0042] As used in this application, the term "network device" refers to a node in a communication network through which terminal devices access the network and receive services. Network devices can refer to base stations (BS) or access points (APs), such as Node B (NodeB or NB), evolved Node B (eNodeB or eNB), NR NB (also known as gNB), remote radio unit (RRU), radio head (RH), remote radio head (RRH), repeater, low-power node (such as femtocell, picocell, etc.), depending on the terminology and technology used.

[0043] The term "terminal device" refers to any terminal device that may be capable of wireless communication. As an example and not a limitation, a terminal device may also be referred to as a communication device, user equipment (UE), subscriber station (SS), portable subscriber station, mobile station (MS), or access terminal (AT). Terminal devices may include, but are not limited to, mobile phones, cellular phones, smartphones, IP-based voice (VoIP) phones, wireless local loop phones, tablets, wearable terminal devices, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable computers, desktop computers, image acquisition terminal devices (such as digital cameras), gaming terminal devices, music storage and playback devices, in-vehicle wireless terminal devices, wireless endpoints, mobile stations, laptop embedded devices (LEE), laptop installed devices (LME), USB dongles, smart devices, wireless customer premises equipment (CPE), Internet of Things (IoT) devices, watches or other wearable devices, head-mounted displays (HMDs), vehicles, drones, medical devices and their applications (e.g., remote surgery), industrial equipment and their applications (e.g., robots and / or other wireless devices operating in industrial and / or automated processing chain environments), consumer electronic devices, and devices operating on commercial and / or industrial wireless networks. In the following description, the terms “terminal equipment”, “communication equipment”, “terminal”, “user equipment” and “UE” are used interchangeably.

[0044] In the Rel-18 NR Positioning Study (SI), RAN1 discussed how to reduce power consumption of UEs in the RRC_INACTIVE state to extend battery life. Low-Power High-Precision Positioning (LPHAP) devices may only require positioning services, thus assuming that LPHAP devices will remain in the RRC_INACTIVE state for extended periods. One identified solution is to support uplink (UL) or downlink (DL) + UL positioning methods, which utilize Sounding Reference Signals (SRS) configurations valid for positioning across multiple cells. More specifically, the gNB can provide the UE with one or more SRS configurations for positioning, and the UE can use the SRS across multiple cells without reconfiguration or updates even if it moves to another cell. Regarding UE-specific configurations, for example, one configuration of the RRC_INACTIVE mode is to transmit SRS within the Initial Bandwidth Part (BWP), and another is to transmit SRS outside the BWP. The network can trigger one of these as needed, and transmitting SRS within the Initial Bandwidth Part (BWP) is beneficial for saving UE battery life because the UE does not need to perform a radio frequency (RF) handover from the initial BWP to outside the initial BWP.

[0045] It should be noted that SRS is merely an exemplary implementation of a positioning reference signal, and the positioning reference signal can be any other reference signal. The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below using SRS as an example.

[0046] The Rel-18 Low Power High Precision Positioning (LPHAP) SI identifies the functionality required to extend LPHAP UE battery life (greater than or equal to 6 months) as a target requirement, taking into account LPHAP UEs with different battery types. This study assumes the network can attempt to keep LPHAP devices in an RRC_INACTIVE state to conserve power. It has been further determined that UL-based positioning may be more advantageous than DL-based positioning in terms of power consumption because DL-based positioning requires the UE to measure multiple PRSs and report the measurement results. However, in the case of UL-based positioning, if the UE sends an SRS, the gNB performs the measurement and reports it to the LMF, thus eliminating the need for the UE to perform both measurement and reporting.

[0047] Based on the above consensus, in the case of UL-based positioning, the battery life of LPHAP UEs can be extended and the UE can be configured with an SRS configuration. Many parameters for SRS transmission in the SRS configuration can be used across multiple cells, but not all SRS configuration parameters are valid across multiple cells. For example, power control, transmission beams for SRS resources, and TA values ​​for SRS transmission are not universal across multiple cells.

[0048] Each serving cell for a UE will be configured with a Location Sequence ID (SRS) valid across multiple cells, and SRS transmissions can be targeted at specific neighboring cells. The serving cell sends the SRS configuration information to the Location Management Function (LMF) via NRPPa (NR Location Protocol a), and the LMF provides this configuration information to neighboring cells because they need to measure the SRS transmitted by the UE. Each cell provides its serving UE's SRS configuration to neighboring cells and receives another SRS configuration from a neighboring cell's UE. When the configured SRS sequence ID is valid across multiple cells, interference issues may arise because multiple UEs may use the same sequence, unless there is close network coordination.

[0049] Furthermore, pre-configuring multiple SRS configurations (e.g., for multiple SRS effective areas) is feasible. The pre-configuration of multiple SRS configurations can be delivered to the UE via dedicated signaling or SI broadcast. If broadcasting is supported, it might be similar to providing PRS (Location Reference Signal) auxiliary data via a system information block, allowing multiple UEs to share the provided PRS resources, which could be ideal in terms of resource efficiency. However, in the case of SRS configurations, interference issues can arise because multiple UEs may use the same SRS sequence.

[0050] In view of the above, according to embodiments of this disclosure, a solution is provided to avoid interference issues with RS (e.g., SRS) configurations valid in multiple cells for RRC_Inactive or RRC_Idle states. In this disclosure, RS configurations (e.g., SRS configurations) are configured to be valid in multiple cells and can be transmitted via broadcast signaling and dedicated signaling. Dedicated signaling refers to UE-specific signaling. When a UE receives an SRS configuration containing at least one SRS sequence (each sequence having a sequence ID), the UE can update the received sequence ID according to pre-configured rules or configuration rules provided by the gNB, ensuring that multiple UEs do not use the same sequence ID, thereby avoiding or reducing interference issues with RS (e.g., SRS) configurations valid in multiple cells for RRC_Inactive or RRC_Idle states.

[0051] The principles and embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. First, refer to... Figure 1 The present invention illustrates an exemplary communication system 100 that may implement embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0052] like Figure 1As shown, system 100 includes multiple network devices, such as access network device 110 and access network device 111 (both also referred to as first network devices). One of network devices 110 and 111 can be a serving network device, and the other can be a neighboring network device of the serving network device. Network devices 110 and 111 use different frequency bands in both the downlink (DL) and uplink (UL) to provide services to their respective cells 101 and 102 (also referred to as cells 101 and 102). Such frequency bands can also be referred to as the operating frequency bands of the respective network devices.

[0053] like Figure 1 As shown, system 100 also includes location management entity 112 (hereinafter also referred to as a second network device). System 100 also includes multiple terminal devices, such as terminal devices 120-1 to 120-7. As long as terminal devices 120-1 to 120-7 are located within their respective cells, they can establish UL and DL connections and communicate with one or more of network devices 110, 111, and 112. In the communication system, UL refers to the link from the terminal device to the network device, and DL refers to the link from the network device to the terminal device. In addition to communicating with terminal devices 120-1 to 120-7, network devices 110, 111, and 112 can also communicate with each other, for example, via a backhaul link. It should be noted that the location function can be implemented in the core network; however, this application is not limited to this, and the location function can also be implemented in the radio access network (RAN).

[0054] It should be understood that the number of network devices and terminal devices is for illustrative purposes only and does not imply any limitation. System 100 may include any suitable number of network devices and terminal devices to implement embodiments of this disclosure. Although not shown, it should be understood that one or more terminal devices may be located in cell 101 or 102.

[0055] Communication in communication system 100 can be implemented according to any suitable communication protocol, including but not limited to cellular communication protocols such as first-generation (1G), second-generation (2G), third-generation (3G), fourth-generation (4G), and fifth-generation (5G), wireless local area network communication protocols such as IEEE 802.11, and / or any other protocol currently known or to be developed in the future. Furthermore, communication can utilize any suitable wireless communication technology, including but not limited to: code division multiple access (CDMA), frequency division multiple access (FDMA), time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division duplex (FDD), time division duplex (TDD), multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO), orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), discrete Fourier transform spread spectrum OFDM (DFT-s-OFDM), and / or any other technology currently known or to be developed in the future.

[0056] Figure 2 A schematic example of a broadcast SRS configuration effective in multiple cells according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. Figure 2 As shown, there are two SRS configurations (e.g., SRS configuration #1 and SRS configuration #2) and five cells (e.g., cell #1, cell #2, cell #3, cell #4, and cell #5). Each cell can correspond to one gNB. Each SRS configuration includes one or more SRS resource sets, for example, SRS resource set #1 and SRS resource set #2. Each SRS resource set includes multiple SRS resources. Figure 2 As shown, there are multiple terminal devices or UEs, for example, seven UEs. Figure 2 As shown, SRS configuration #1 and SRS configuration #2 are sent via broadcast signaling, meaning that SRS configurations can be sent to multiple UEs.

[0057] If there are two UEs, each of them may be able to use an SRS configuration (each configuration has a sequence) without overlap. However, as Figure 2 As shown, if there are multiple UEs (e.g., seven UEs), it may be difficult to avoid different UEs using the same SRS configuration. When the configuration sequence ID of the SRS resource is valid for multiple cells in the SRS configuration, the use of the same sequence by multiple UEs may cause interference problems unless there is close network coordination.

[0058] Now for reference Figure 3 This illustrates a process 300 for updating the RS sequence identifier (ID) of an RS configuration according to some embodiments of this disclosure. For discussion purposes, reference will be made to... Figure 1 Describe process 300. Process 300 may involve, for example, Figure 1 The terminal device 120 and network devices 110 and 112 are shown. It should be understood that although process 300 is used to update the RS sequence ID, it has already been... Figure 1 The communication system 100 is described, but this process can also be applied to other communication scenarios where different network devices are jointly deployed to provide their respective serving cells. It should also be understood that the RS sequence ID can be updated by, for example... Figure 1 Any of the terminal devices 120-1 to 120-7 shown is completed.

[0059] In process 300, network device 110 sends (305) one or more RS configurations 301, which include multiple cells (e.g. Figure 1At least one valid sequence and at least one sequence ID in cells 101 and 102 (shown). Then, terminal device 120 receives (310) the one or more RS configurations 301. In some embodiments, these RS configurations are used for the positioning of RRC_INACTIVE UE or RRC_IDLE UE.

[0060] In process 300, terminal device 102 updates (315) at least one RS sequence ID of at least one sequence included in one or more configurations 301 based on configuration information. This configuration information includes at least one of a terminal device ID or a cell ID. In some embodiments, this configuration information is included in one or more RS configurations 301. However, in other embodiments, the configuration information may be provided separately from one or more RS configurations 301. Although in Figure 3 The network device is referred to as network device 110, but those skilled in the art should understand that the terminal device or network device can be... Figure 1 Other devices shown (e.g., device 111), and terminal device 120 can be any of terminal devices 120-1 to 120-7.

[0061] In process 300, terminal device 120 sends (320) an indication 302 of updating at least one RS sequence ID to network device 110, which may be a first network device 110 or a second network device 112 (i.e., a location management function entity). In process 300, network device 110 receives (325) an indication of updating at least one RS sequence ID. In some embodiments, the indication of updating RS sequence ID may be an updated sequence ID. Alternatively, the indication of updating RS sequence ID may also be an indication that the UE has updated the sequence ID, if the gNB can know the sequence ID (e.g., the gNB can determine the sequence ID according to pre-configured rules, then the gNB (e.g., a neighboring gNB) can receive the updated sequence ID from LMF 112).

[0062] In process 300, terminal device 120 may also directly send (330) at least one updated RS sequence ID to the second network device or LMF 112, and LMF 112 receives (335) the at least one updated RS sequence ID. Alternatively, after receiving an indication of an update of at least one RS sequence ID, first network device 110 may send (340) at least one updated RS sequence ID 303 to the second network device or LMF 112, and LMF receives (345) the at least one updated RS sequence ID.

[0063] In some embodiments, the network (e.g., network device 110 or 111) can provide one or more RS configurations 301 (e.g., SRS configurations, such as System Information Block SIB) to multiple UEs (e.g., terminal devices 120-1 to 120-7) via broadcast (such as System Information Block SIB). Figure 2 As shown, and preferably multiple SRS configurations). If one or more RS configurations contain fewer RS ​​sequence IDs than the number of UEs, RS interference will occur because multiple UEs may use the same sequence.

[0064] In some embodiments, network device 110 may provide one or more SRS configurations 301 to any terminal device 120-1 to 120-7 via dedicated signaling, and this dedicated signaling may be included in an RRC hangup message. This dedicated signaling refers to UE-specific signaling (i.e., direct signaling between the network and only one UE).

[0065] If multiple UEs have the same RS configuration, they can use the same RS sequence configured in the RS configuration, causing UL RS interference. Therefore, terminal device 120 needs to update the sequence ID of the SRS resource in the received SRS configuration to avoid SRS interference. Sometimes, even if the RS configuration is sent for a specific UE in dedicated signaling, the sequence in the RS configuration may not be applicable to that specific UE without causing interference, and the UE also needs to update the received sequence ID.

[0066] In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 may update the sequence ID at the following times: when it receives configuration information, when it receives a trigger indication or request from the first network device 110 or the second network device 112, or when the connected cell of the terminal device 120 changes.

[0067] In some embodiments, the configuration information may correspond to some pre-configured rules or rules provided by network devices 110 or 111, as will be described in detail below. Terminal device 120 can update the RS (e.g., SRS) sequence ID according to the pre-configured rules or the provided rules. The rule may be included in one or more RS configurations or provided separately.

[0068] The following will refer to Figure 4 This describes the procedure for updating the SRS sequence ID in the SRS resource configuration sent via broadcast signaling.

[0069] like Figure 4 As shown, in step 401, the SRS sequence ID update request process is executed. There are several ways to request an SRS sequence ID update. Some embodiments of requesting an SRS sequence ID update (e.g., Alt 1, Alt 2, and Alt 3) will be described below.

[0070] like Figure 4 As shown, for Alt 1, the request message is included in the broadcast SRS configuration. The request message shown in Alt 1 may correspond to a pre-configured rule or a provided rule, and upon receiving this request message, the terminal device 120 may begin updating the sequence ID.

[0071] like Figure 4 As shown, for Alt 2, terminal device 120 can be triggered to update the ID via separate signaling. In one example, network device 110 can provide terminal device 120 with a set of sequences for updating via explicit signaling separate from SRS configuration. In another example, network device 110 can trigger terminal device 120 to update the sequences according to configuration rules or provided rules via explicit signaling separate from SRS configuration. Figure 4 As shown, the Alt 2 request message is sent via an additional explicit indication, which can correspond to the explicit signaling.

[0072] like Figure 4 As shown, for Alt 3, a change in connected cells can trigger the UE to update the sequence ID. A change in connected cells can refer to the terminal device 120 discovering that the measured Reference Received Power (RSRP) or Reference Received Quality (RSRQ) on the Synchronization Signal Block (SSB) of one cell is superior to that of another cell. In this case, the gNB 110 can pre-configure multiple sets of SRS sequence IDs associated with multiple cells and send them to the UE. These multiple sets of SRS sequence IDs will be used by the UE 120 to update the sequence ID, as described in detail below.

[0073] The following will describe in detail an example of a rule for updating sequence IDs (e.g., Alt A to Alt D).

[0074] Regarding the first rule, Figure 4 In scheme A shown, the UE can update the configured sequence to another sequence based on the functional relationship between the user equipment ID and the SRS sequence ID, according to the following formula (1): in, It is the SRS sequence ID configured in the gNB. It is the updated sequence ID of the user equipment. This is the user equipment ID. In this case, the configuration information used to update the sequence ID may include the user equipment ID.

[0075] For example, the user equipment can use the first part of the user equipment ID. Position or after Bits are added to the sequence ID, and then a constant (e.g.) is used. The modulo operation can be performed using this method. For example, a new sequence ID can be created using the modulo operation. Generate, where constant It is the first part of the user equipment ID. Position or after Position, and ,For example If we consider the last 3 digits of the user equipment ID (e.g., ... 65546), then the operation can be performed. Since the SRS sequence ID has a bit width of 10 bits, it is appropriate to perform modulo operation with 1024 as the modulus.

[0076] Regarding the second rule, namely Figure 4 In scheme B shown, the user equipment can update the provided sequence to another sequence according to the following formula (2), based on the functional relationship between the configured sequence ID, the user equipment ID, and the ID of the currently connected cell: in, It is the SRS sequence ID configured in the gNB. It is the sequence ID updated by the user equipment. It is the user device ID. This is the cell ID. In this case, the configuration information used to update the sequence ID may include the user equipment ID and the cell ID.

[0077] For example, such as Figure 4 As shown, in step 402, the configured sequence ID is updated. Based on Alt A and Alt B, user equipment 120 generates another SRS sequence ID according to the functional relationship between the configured SRS sequence ID, user equipment ID, and / or cell ID.

[0078] In one embodiment, the cell ID is the ID of the cell to which the user equipment is currently connected. In another embodiment, the last known cell ID or the ID of a previously serving cell may be used. The cell ID may be a Physical Cell ID (PCI) or an NCGI (NR Cell Global Identifier). The user equipment ID may be a global identifier (e.g., International Mobile Subscriber Identity, IMSI) or an ID configured by the network equipment (e.g., Radio Network Temporary Identifier, RNTI).

[0079] Regarding the third rule, such as Figure 4 As shown in Alt C, the user equipment can randomly update a provided sequence to another sequence by applying random numbers and modulo operations. For example, as Figure 4 As shown in Alt C, user equipment 120 generates another SRS sequence ID by selecting a random number and combining it with a modulo operation. More specifically, in the formula... In the process, the user equipment generates a random number. For example, user equipment is distributed from digitally uniform sources. Select a value from the interval.

[0080] Regarding rule number four, such as Figure 4 As shown in Alt D, when the connected cell changes as described above in conjunction with Alt 3, the UE selects a set of sequence IDs associated with the connected cell from a pre-configured set of SRS sequence IDs, and then selects the corresponding sequence ID from this set as the sequence ID for the UE's update. For example, in step 401, gNB 110 provides multiple candidate SRS sequence IDs for each SRS resource, and each candidate is associated with a specific cell ID. If the UE is connected to a cell, in step 402, the UE first selects a set of SRS sequence IDs associated with that connected cell, and then selects the corresponding sequence ID as the sequence ID for the UE's update. Alternatively, the UE can report the selected set of SRS sequence IDs to the gNB, and then the gNB can decide which sequence ID the UE can use.

[0081] In this case, the configuration information used to update (one or more) sequence IDs may include multiple sets of sequence IDs, as well as the association information between each set of SRS sequence IDs and the cell ID.

[0082] like Figure 4 As shown, in step 403, the transmission of the updated sequence ID is performed. For Alt A and Alt B, as shown in Alt i, one or more updated sequence IDs can be sent to the serving network device 110 or directly to the LMF 112. For example, in the case of using multipath round-trip time (Multi-RTT) technology, the UE reports the measurement of the UE Rx-Tx time difference and more information such as the PRS / SRS sequence ID to the LMF. Therefore, the UE should use the PUSCH resource to send the information, and the PUSCH can contain information related to the sequence ID change.

[0083] However, for Alt A to Alt D, it can simply send an indication to the network device that the RS sequence ID has been updated according to a pre-configured rule or a provided rule, as shown in Alternative ii, because the gNB can determine the updated sequence ID based on the UE ID and / or cell ID reported by the UE and / or a random number reported by the UE, without requiring the UE to report the updated sequence ID.

[0084] For example, the behavior of UE 120 is configured by gNB 110. That is, the rule is provided by gNB. More specifically, for AltA, if gNB knows the UE ID, gNB will know the updated sequence based on the UE ID. At least when the UE reports its indication of an updated sequence, gNB should know the UE ID, and thus know the updated sequence ID. For AltB, if gNB knows the connected cell information, gNB will understand the updated sequence ID. This connected cell may be the same as or different from the serving cell, so the UE may need to report the cell ID information when reporting its indication of an updated sequence. For AltC, if the UE is able to report a determined random number, gNB can also know the updated sequence ID based on the rules for AltC.

[0085] Furthermore, since the UE reports the updated sequence ID to the serving gNB, and the serving gNB provides the updated sequence information to the LMF, which then provides the information to other gNBs, it is not necessary to report the updated sequence ID to other gNBs.

[0086] Therefore, in step 403, the UE may simply send an indication to the network device that the RS sequence ID has been updated according to pre-configured rules or provided rules. For example, the UE may report to the network via SDT (Small Data Transmission) PUSCH that it has changed the sequence ID according to pre-configured or provided rules. For example, the UE may notify the gNB that it has updated the sequence ID while following pre-configured or indicated rules. In this case, the UE does not need to report the updated sequence information because the gNB may be able to know about the updated sequence.

[0087] For example, such as Figure 5 As shown, Figure 5 An illustrative example of the association between a set of SRS sequences and cell IDs is shown. Figure 5 As shown, for SRS resource #1, it includes three SRS sequences, for example, SRS sequence #1 corresponding to cell #1, SRS sequence #2 corresponding to cell #2, and SRS sequence #3 corresponding to cell #3. Furthermore, as... Figure 5 As shown, SRS resource #2 also includes three SRS sequences, for example, SRS sequence #4 corresponding to cell #1, SRS sequence #5 corresponding to cell #2, and SRS sequence #6 corresponding to cell #3.

[0088] For example, return to reference Figure 4In step 402, when updating the configured sequence ID according to Alt D, if the UE is connected to cell #1 according to Alt D, the UE can select SRS sequence #1 and #4, and then select one of SRS sequence #1 and #4 as the updated sequence ID, or the UE can report the selected SRS sequence #1 and #4 to the gNB, and the gNB can decide which one can be used for the UE.

[0089] Therefore, in process 300, by updating the sequence ID at the UE, different UEs can use different sequence IDs, and when sending SRS to the gNB, interference from SRS can be avoided by using different sequence IDs of different UEs.

[0090] When multiple gNBs participate in a location session and they measure the SRS from the UE, the UE reports to the serving cell, which provides the updated sequence information to the LMF. The LMF then provides this information to the other gNBs, so all gNBs will know the updated sequence information and the updated sequence ID.

[0091] For example, such as Figure 4 As shown, in step 404, the serving gNB 110 provides information about the updated SRS sequence ID to the LMF 112, and in step 405, the LMF 112 provides information about the updated SRS sequence ID to the neighboring gNB 111. Furthermore, as... Figure 4 As shown, in step 406, UE 120 sends an SRS to the serving gNB 110 and the neighboring gNB 111. Then, in block 407, the serving gNB 110 performs a location measurement based on the received SRS, and in block 408, the neighboring gNB 111 performs a location measurement based on the received SRS. Since interference from the transmitted SRS is avoided or reduced, the accuracy of UL-based location measurements can be improved.

[0092] The following is a flowchart illustrating the process for updating the SRS sequence ID of the SRS configuration sent by dedicated signaling, with reference to Figure 6.

[0093] exist Figure 6 In the dedicated signaling shown, an effective solution would be to allocate efficient sequence resources via network coordination, and to signal between the gNB and LMF via NRPPa (NR Positioning Protocol a).

[0094] like Figure 6As shown, in box 601, LMF 112 determines multiple sets of SRS sequence IDs to be assigned to multiple cells. That is, each set of SRS sequence IDs can correspond to each cell, or each gNB can correspond to each cell if each gNB corresponds to each gNB. In other words, when LMF 112 determines multiple sets of SRS sequence IDs to be assigned to multiple cells, LMF 112 considers the number of cells in the effective area, and LMF 112 determines multiple sets of SRS sequence IDs associated with multiple cell IDs.

[0095] In step 602, LMF 112 provides gNB 110 with a set of SRS sequence IDs associated with gNB 110's cell ID and requests gNB 110 to use the provided set of sequence IDs only when configuring SRS resource sequences in the SRS resource configuration for a specific UE. That is, when gNB configures SRS sequence IDs in the SRS resource configuration, it selects a sequence ID for a specific UE from the provided set of sequence IDs.

[0096] In step 603, gNB 110 provides SRS configuration and assigns sequence IDs from the provided set of sequence IDs. That is, the gNB can assign the first sequence ID from the set of sequence IDs to the first UE and the second sequence ID from the set of sequence IDs to the second UE, and both the first and second UEs can be located within the cell provided by the gNB. Therefore, different UEs can use different sequence IDs.

[0097] In step 604, the UE sends the configured SRS to the gNB, that is, the configured SRS is associated with a specific sequence ID. Therefore, by configuring different sequence IDs for the UE, interference from UL SRS can be reduced or even avoided.

[0098] While the first to fourth rules (i.e., Alt A to Alt D) described above can be used for broadcast signaling, it should be noted that some rules can also be used for dedicated signaling. For example, rule Alt D can be used to update the sequence ID when sending SRS configuration via dedicated signaling.

[0099] In some embodiments, if the SRS configuration sent via dedicated signaling is no longer applicable to the UE, the UE may be triggered to update the received sequence ID via dedicated signaling.

[0100] In some embodiments, the LMF 112 also provides the gNB 110 with a set of SRS sequence IDs and a set of periodicity and slot offset values. The LMF requests the gNB to use the provided set of SRS sequence IDs when configuring SRS resources based on the provided set of periodicity and slot offset values ​​and the provided set of SRS sequence IDs. The LMF may provide the gNB with multiple different sets of SRS sequence IDs for the same set of periodicity and slot offset values.

[0101] For example, sets #1 and #2 include different periodicities and different time slot offsets, while resource sets #A and #B each include different SRS sequence IDs. If the LMF requests that both cell #1 (or gNB #1) and cell #2 (or gNB #2) use set #1, it will request that cell #1 and cell #2 use sets #A and #B respectively, so that cell #1 and cell #2 can use different sequences on the same time resources.

[0102] However, if the LMF requests that cell #1 and cell #2 use set #1 and set #2 respectively, it will request that both cell #1 and cell #2 use set #A, or request that both cell #1 and cell #2 use set #B. Cell #1 and cell #2 can use the same resource set or the same sequence ID because they have different slot offsets.

[0103] In some embodiments, the LMF requests each gNB to use at least one comb size and at least one comb offset (or frequency offset) from a provided set. That is, the LMF provides the gNB with frequency resource information for SRS transmission. The gNB can select one of the provided comb sizes and offsets when configuring the UE. It should be noted that the selection of periodicity and slot offset can be combined with the selection of comb size and comb offset.

[0104] LMF can determine multiple sets of SRS sequence IDs and assign one set to each gNB. It should be noted that overlapping sequence IDs may exist between different sets, depending on the network implementation. However, LMF should avoid assigning the same sequence across different cells whenever possible. This principle also applies to periodicity and slot offset value groups. By providing different periodicity and slot offsets and / or comb sizes and offsets, LMF can avoid assigning the same sequence or the same resources to different UEs belonging to different cells.

[0105] It should also be noted that the gNB retains the flexibility to configure resources beyond the set of sequence IDs, slot offsets, and comb offsets provided in any option. If the gNB decides to configure resources beyond those requested by the LMF, it can send a message to the LMF notifying it of its decision.

[0106] Figure 7A flowchart of a method 700 implemented at a terminal device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For discussion purposes, [the following will be discussed...] Figure 1 A method 700 for describing the viewpoint of any terminal device 120-1 to 120-7.

[0107] In block 710, terminal device 120 receives one or more reference signal (RS) configurations from a first network device, including at least one sequence valid in multiple cells and at least one RS sequence ID. In block 720, terminal device 120 updates at least one RS sequence ID of at least one sequence based on configuration information including at least one of terminal device ID or cell ID. In block 730, the terminal device sends an indication of updating at least one RS sequence ID.

[0108] In some embodiments, terminal device 120 receives one or more RS configurations via broadcast signaling or dedicated signaling of the terminal device. In some embodiments, the configuration information includes a device ID, and terminal device 120 updates at least one RS sequence ID based on or according to the device ID and at least one RS sequence ID.

[0109] In some embodiments, the configuration information includes a device ID and a cell ID, and the terminal device 120 updates at least one RS sequence ID based on or according to the device ID, at least one RS sequence ID, and the cell ID. In some embodiments, the cell ID is at least one of the cell ID currently connected to by the terminal device or the ID of a previously serving cell.

[0110] In some embodiments, the configuration information includes a random number, and the terminal device 120 updates at least one RS sequence ID of at least one sequence based on or according to the random number and at least one RS sequence ID. In some embodiments, the terminal device 120 sends at least one updated RS sequence ID to the first network device.

[0111] In some embodiments, the configuration information includes: multiple sets of RS sequence IDs, and association information between the multiple sets of RS sequence IDs and the cell IDs of multiple cells. When the terminal device moves from the first cell to the second cell, the terminal device 120 updates at least one RS sequence ID by: selecting a set of RS sequence IDs associated with the cell ID of the second cell from the multiple sets of RS sequence IDs; and selecting an RS sequence from the selected set of RS sequence IDs as at least one updated RS sequence ID.

[0112] In some embodiments, terminal device 120 sends an indication to a first network device that the RS sequence ID has been updated based on configuration information. In some embodiments, terminal device 120 sends at least one updated RS sequence ID to a second network device. In some embodiments, this indication is sent as part of a location measurement report.

[0113] In some embodiments, an update of at least one RS sequence ID is triggered based on at least one of the following: receipt of configuration information; a trigger indication or request from a first network device or a second network device; or a change in the cell connected to the terminal device. In some embodiments, the configuration information is included in one or more RS configurations. In some embodiments, the terminal device is in an inactive or idle state. In some embodiments, the reference signal is a probe reference signal.

[0114] Figure 8 A flowchart of a method 800 implemented at a first network device according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For discussion purposes, [the following will be discussed...] Figure 1 Method 800 is described from the perspective of the first network device 110. It should be noted that method 800 can also be implemented at network device 111.

[0115] In block 810, the first network device 110 sends one or more RS configurations to the terminal device 120. These RS configurations include at least one sequence valid in multiple cells, at least one RS sequence ID, and configuration information used by the terminal device to update at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence. The configuration information is based on at least one of the terminal device ID or the cell ID. In block 820, the first network device 110 receives from the terminal device 120 an indication of an update to at least one updated RS sequence ID.

[0116] In some embodiments, one or more RS configurations are transmitted via broadcast signaling or dedicated signaling. In some embodiments, an indication of an update of at least one updated RS sequence ID includes at least one updated RS sequence ID; and the first network device 110 sends a report instruction to the terminal device 120 to cause the terminal device to send at least one updated RS sequence ID; and receives at least one updated RS sequence ID from the terminal device 120.

[0117] In some embodiments, when the connected cell of terminal device 120 changes from a first cell to a second cell, an indication of at least one updated RS sequence ID is an indication that the RS sequence ID has been updated. In some embodiments, first network device 110 sends at least one updated RS sequence ID to second network device 112.

[0118] In some embodiments, the first network device 110 receives from the second network device a set of RS sequences or sequence IDs associated with the cell ID of the first network device; and determines one or more RS configurations based on the received set of RS sequences or sequence IDs.

[0119] In some embodiments, a first network device 110 receives a set of periodicity and offset values ​​from a second network device, as well as a set of RS sequences or sequence IDs associated with the cell ID of the first network device; and determines one or more RS configurations based on the received set of RS sequences or sequence IDs and the received set of periodicity and offset values.

[0120] In some embodiments, a first network device receives a set of comb tooth sizes and comb tooth offset values, and a set of RS sequences associated with the cell ID of the first network device, from a second network device; and determines one or more RS configurations based on the received set of RS sequences or sequence IDs and the received set of comb tooth sizes and comb tooth offset values.

[0121] In some embodiments, the configuration information includes at least one of the following: device ID; device ID and cell ID; random number; or multiple sets of RS sequence IDs, and association information between the multiple sets of RS sequence IDs and the cell IDs of multiple cells. In some embodiments, the reference signal is a probe reference signal.

[0122] Figure 9 A flowchart of a method 900 implemented at a second network device according to some other embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. For discussion purposes, [the following will be discussed...] Figure 1 Method 900, describing the perspective of the second network device or LMF 112.

[0123] In block 910, the second network device 112 receives at least one updated reference signal (RS) sequence ID from at least one of the terminal device or the serving network device of the terminal device, wherein the at least one updated RS sequence ID is updated for one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence configured by the serving network device and valid in multiple cells.

[0124] In some embodiments, the second network device 112 sends at least one updated RS sequence ID to a neighboring network device of the serving network device.

[0125] In some embodiments, the second network device 112 determines multiple sets of RS sequences associated with multiple cells; and provides the first network device with a set of RS sequences or sequence IDs associated with the cell ID of the first network device to configure one or more RS configurations.

[0126] In some embodiments, the second network device 112 provides the first network device with a set of periodicity and offset values ​​for configuring one or more RS configurations. In some embodiments, the second network device 112 provides the first network device with a set of comb size and comb offset values ​​for configuring one or more RS configurations.

[0127] In some embodiments, the apparatus capable of performing method 700 (e.g., terminal device 120) may include means for performing the various steps of method 700. This means may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the means may be implemented as a circuit or a software module.

[0128] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes: components for receiving one or more reference signal (RS) configurations from a first network device, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells and at least one RS sequence ID; components for updating at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence based on configuration information including at least one of a terminal device ID or a cell ID; and components for sending an indication of updating at least one RS sequence ID.

[0129] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes components for receiving one or more RS configurations via broadcast signaling or dedicated signaling of the terminal device. In some embodiments, the configuration information includes a device ID, and the apparatus further includes components for updating at least one RS sequence ID based on or according to the device ID and at least one RS sequence ID.

[0130] In some embodiments, the configuration information includes a device ID and a cell ID, and the apparatus further includes a component for updating at least one RS sequence ID based on or according to the device ID, at least one RS sequence ID, and the cell ID. In some embodiments, the cell ID is at least one of the ID of the cell to which the terminal device is currently connected or the ID of a previously serving cell.

[0131] In some embodiments, the configuration information includes a random number, and the apparatus further includes a component for updating at least one RS sequence ID of at least one sequence based on or according to the random number and at least one RS sequence ID. In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes a component for sending at least one updated RS sequence ID to a first network device.

[0132] In some embodiments, the configuration information includes: multiple sets of RS sequence IDs, and association information between the multiple sets of RS sequence IDs and cell IDs of multiple cells. The apparatus also includes a component for updating at least one RS sequence ID when the terminal device moves from a first cell to a second cell by selecting a set of RS sequence IDs associated with the cell ID of the second cell from the multiple sets of RS sequence IDs, and selecting an RS sequence ID from the selected set of RS sequence IDs as at least one updated RS sequence ID.

[0133] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes components for sending an indication to a first network device that the RS sequence ID has been updated based on configuration information. In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes components for sending at least one updated RS sequence ID to a second network device. In some embodiments, the indication is sent as part of a location measurement report.

[0134] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes means for performing other steps in some embodiments of method 700. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code being configured to cause the apparatus to execute together with the at least one processor.

[0135] In some embodiments, the means capable of performing method 800 (e.g., network device 110 or network device 111) may include means for performing the various steps of method 800. This means may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the means may be implemented as a circuit or a software module.

[0136] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes: a component for transmitting one or more reference signal (RS) configurations to a terminal device, the RS configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells, at least one RS sequence ID, and configuration information used by the terminal device to update at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence, wherein the configuration information is based on at least one of a terminal device ID or a cell ID; and a component for receiving an indication of an update of at least one RS sequence ID from the terminal device.

[0137] In some embodiments, the indication of an update of at least one updated RS sequence ID includes at least one updated RS sequence ID; and the apparatus further includes means for sending a report instruction to a terminal device to cause the terminal device to send at least one updated RS sequence ID; and means for receiving at least one updated RS sequence ID from the terminal device.

[0138] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes components for sending at least one updated RS sequence ID to a second network device. In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes components for receiving from the second network device a set of RS sequences or sequence IDs associated with the cell ID of the first network device; and components for determining one or more RS configurations based on the received set of RS sequences or sequence IDs.

[0139] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes means for receiving from a second network device a set of periodicity and offset values, and a set of RS sequences or sequence IDs associated with a cell ID of a first network device; and means for determining one or more RS configurations based on the received set of RS sequences or sequence IDs and the received set of periodicity and offset values. In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes means for receiving from the second network device a set of comb tooth sizes and comb tooth offset values, and a set of reference signal (RS) sequences associated with a cell ID of a first network device; and means for determining one or more RS configurations based on the received set of RS sequences or sequence IDs and the received set of comb tooth sizes and comb tooth offset values.

[0140] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes means for performing other steps in some embodiments of method 800. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code being configured to cause the apparatus to execute together with the at least one processor.

[0141] In some embodiments, the apparatus capable of performing method 900 (e.g., a network device or LMF 112) may include means for performing the corresponding steps of method 900. This means may be implemented in any suitable form. For example, the means may be implemented as a circuit or a software module.

[0142] In some embodiments, the apparatus includes: a component for receiving at least one updated reference signal (RS) sequence ID from at least one of a terminal device or a serving network device of the terminal device, wherein the at least one updated RS sequence ID is updated for one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence configured by the serving network device and valid in a plurality of cells.

[0143] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes components for sending at least one updated RS sequence ID to a neighboring network device of the serving network device. In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes components for determining multiple sets of RS sequences associated with multiple cells; and components for providing a set of RS sequences or sequence IDs associated with a cell ID of the first network device to configure one or more RS configurations.

[0144] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes components for providing a set of periodicity and offset values ​​to the first network device for configuring one or more RS configurations. In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes components for providing a set of comb tooth sizes and combined offset values ​​to the first network device for configuring one or more RS configurations.

[0145] In some embodiments, the apparatus further includes means for performing other steps in some embodiments of method 900. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code being configured to cause the apparatus to execute together with the at least one processor.

[0146] Figure 10 This is a simplified block diagram of a device 1000 suitable for implementing embodiments of the present disclosure. The device 1000 can be used to implement a communication device, such as... Figure 1 The terminal devices 120-1 to 120-7 and network devices 110, 111 and 112 are shown. As shown, device 1000 includes one or more processors 1010, one or more memories 1020 coupled to processor 1010, and one or more communication modules 1040 coupled to processor 1010.

[0147] The communication module 1040 is used for bidirectional communication. The communication module 1040 has at least one antenna to support communication. The communication interface can represent any interface required for communication with other network devices.

[0148] Processor 1010 can be any type suitable for a local technology network and may include one or more of the following as non-limiting examples: general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), and processor based on a multi-core processor architecture. Device 1000 may have multiple processors, such as application-specific integrated circuit chips that synchronize the main processor from a clock.

[0149] Memory 1020 may include one or more non-volatile memories and one or more volatile memories. Examples of non-volatile memories include, but are not limited to, read-only memory (ROM) 1024, electrically programmable read-only memory (EPROM), flash memory, hard disk, optical disc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), and other magnetic and / or optical storage. Examples of volatile memories include, but are not limited to, random access memory (RAM) 1022 and other volatile memories that may not persist during power outages.

[0150] Computer program 1030 includes computer-executable instructions that are executed by the associated processor 1010. Program 1030 may be stored in ROM 1024. Processor 1010 may load program 1030 into RAM 1022 to perform any suitable actions and processes.

[0151] The embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented by a program, enabling device 1000 to perform as described in the reference. Figure 3 , 4 6 and Figures 7 to 9 Any process discussed in this disclosure. Embodiments of this disclosure may also be implemented in hardware or by a combination of software and hardware.

[0152] In some embodiments, program 1030 may be tangibly contained in a computer-readable medium, which may be contained in device 1000 (such as in memory 1020) or other storage device accessible to device 1000. Device 1000 may load program 1030 from the computer-readable medium into RAM 1022 for execution. The computer-readable medium may include any type of tangible non-volatile storage, such as ROM, EPROM, flash memory, hard disk, CD, DVD, etc.

[0153] Figure 11 An example of a computer-readable medium 1100 in the form of a CD or DVD according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. A program 1030 is stored on the computer-readable medium. It should be noted that although the computer-readable medium 1100 is depicted in the form of a CD or DVD, the computer-readable medium 1100 may be any other form suitable for carrying or storing the program 1030.

[0154] Generally, the various embodiments of this disclosure can be implemented by hardware or dedicated circuitry, software, logic, or any combination thereof. Some aspects can be implemented by hardware, while others can be implemented by firmware or software, which can be executed by a controller, microprocessor, or other computing device. Although various aspects of the embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated and described as block diagrams, flowcharts, or using some other illustrated representation, it should be understood that the blocks, apparatuses, systems, techniques, or methods described herein can be implemented as non-limiting examples by hardware, software, firmware, dedicated circuitry or logic, general-purpose hardware or controllers or other computing devices, or any combination thereof.

[0155] This disclosure also provides at least one computer program product tangibly stored on a non-volatile computer-readable storage medium. The computer program product includes computer-executable instructions, such as those contained in program modules and executed on a device on a target real or virtual processor, to perform the above-mentioned... Figures 7 to 9The methods described are 700 to 900. Typically, a program module includes routines, programs, libraries, objects, classes, components, data structures, and other tasks-specific or implementations of specific abstract data types. The functionality of a program module can be combined or separated in various embodiments. The machine-executable instructions of a program module can be executed locally or on a distributed device. In a distributed device, the program module can reside on both local and remote storage media.

[0156] The program code used to perform the methods of this disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages. This program code may be provided to a processor or controller of a general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device, such that when executed by the processor or controller, the program code enables the functions / operations specified in the flowcharts and / or block diagrams to be implemented. The program code may be executed entirely on the machine, partially on the machine, as a stand-alone software package, partially on the machine, partially on a remote machine, or entirely on a remote machine or server.

[0157] In the context of this disclosure, computer program code or related data may be carried by any suitable carrier to enable a device, apparatus, or processor to perform the various processes and operations described above. Examples of carriers include signals, computer-readable media, etc.

[0158] Computer-readable media can be computer-readable signal media or computer-readable storage media. Computer-readable media can include, but is not limited to, electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor systems, apparatuses, or devices, or any suitable combination thereof. More specific examples of computer-readable storage media include electrical connections having one or more wires, portable computer disks, hard disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fibers, portable compact storage (CD-ROM), optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, or any suitable combination thereof. The term "non-volatile" as used herein refers to a limitation on the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not signaling), and not on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM and ROM).

[0159] Furthermore, although the operations are depicted in a specific order, this should not be construed as requiring these operations to be performed in the specific order shown or in sequential order, or that all shown operations be performed to achieve the desired result. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Similarly, while several specific implementation details are included in the foregoing discussion, these details should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular embodiments. Certain features described in the context of individual embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented individually or in any suitable sub-combination in multiple embodiments.

[0160] Although this disclosure has been described using language specific to structural features and / or methodological actions, it should be understood that the disclosure as defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or actions described above. Rather, the specific features and actions described above may be disclosed as examples of implementing the claims.

Claims

1. A terminal device, comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the terminal device to at least: From a first network device, one or more reference signal (RS) configurations are received, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells, and at least one RS sequence identifier (ID). Based on configuration information including at least one of the device ID or cell ID of the terminal device, update the at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence; as well as The instruction to send the update of the at least one RS sequence ID.

2. The terminal device according to claim 1, wherein the terminal device is configured to receive the one or more RS configurations via broadcast signaling or dedicated signaling for the terminal device.

3. The terminal device according to claim 1, wherein the configuration information includes the device ID, and the terminal device is configured to update the at least one RS sequence ID in the following manner: Update the at least one RS sequence ID based on or according to the device ID and the at least one RS sequence ID.

4. The terminal device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the configuration information includes the device ID and the cell ID, and the terminal device is configured to update the at least one RS sequence ID in the following manner: The at least one RS sequence ID is updated based on or according to the device ID, the at least one RS sequence ID, and the cell ID.

5. The terminal device according to claim 4, wherein the cell ID is at least one of the ID of the cell currently connected to the terminal device or the cell ID of the previously serving cell.

6. The terminal device according to claim 1, wherein the configuration information includes a random number, and the terminal device is configured to update the at least one RS sequence ID in the following manner: The at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence is updated based on or according to the random number and the at least one RS sequence ID.

7. The terminal device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the terminal device is configured to send the indication of the update of the at least one RS sequence ID in such a way as follows: Send at least one updated RS sequence ID to the first network device.

8. The terminal device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the configuration information includes: Multiple sets of RS sequence IDs, and association information between the multiple sets of RS sequence IDs and the cell IDs of the multiple cells, wherein the terminal device is configured to update the at least one RS sequence ID in the following manner: When the terminal device moves from the first cell to the second cell, a set of RS sequence IDs associated with the cell ID of the second cell is selected from the plurality of sets of RS sequence IDs, and an RS sequence ID is selected from the selected set of RS sequence IDs as at least one updated RS sequence ID.

9. The terminal device according to claims 1 to 5 and claim 8, wherein the terminal device is configured to send the instruction in the following manner: Send an indication to the first network device that the RS sequence ID has been updated based on the configuration information.

10. The terminal device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the terminal device is configured to send the instruction in the following manner: Send at least one updated RS sequence ID to the second network device.

11. The terminal device of claim 10, wherein the indication is sent as part of a positioning measurement report.

12. The terminal device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the update of the at least one RS sequence ID is triggered based on at least one of the following: The configuration information is received; Trigger indications or requests from the first network device or the second network device; or The terminal device is connected to a different cell.

13. The terminal device according to claim 12, wherein the configuration information is included in the one or more RS configurations.

14. The terminal device according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the terminal device is in an inactive state or an idle state.

15. The terminal device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the reference signal is a detection reference signal.

16. A first network device, comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first network device to at least: Send one or more reference signal (RS) configurations to a terminal device, the one or more RS configurations including: at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells, at least one RS sequence identifier (ID), and configuration information used by the terminal device to update the at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence, wherein the configuration information is based on at least one of the terminal device ID or cell ID; as well as The terminal device receives an indication of an update of at least one updated RS sequence ID.

17. The first network device of claim 16, wherein the one or more RS configurations are transmitted via broadcast signaling or dedicated signaling.

18. The first network device according to claim 16 or 17, wherein the indication of the update of the at least one updated RS sequence ID includes at least one updated RS sequence ID; and the first network device is further configured to: Send a report instruction to the terminal device, the report instruction causing the terminal device to send the at least one updated RS sequence ID; and Receive the at least one updated RS sequence ID from the terminal device.

19. The first network device according to claim 16 or 17, wherein, in the case where the cell to which the terminal device is connected is changed from the first cell to the second cell, the indication of the update of the at least one RS sequence ID is an indication that the RS sequence ID has been updated.

20. The first network device according to any one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the first network device is further configured to: Send the at least one updated RS sequence ID to the second network device.

21. The first network device according to any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the first network device is further configured to: Receive from the second network device a set of RS sequences or sequence IDs associated with the cell ID of the first network device; and The configuration of one or more RSs is determined based on a set of received RS sequences or sequence IDs.

22. The first network device according to any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the first network device is further configured to: Receive from the second network device a set of periodic and offset values, and a set of RS sequences or sequence IDs associated with the cell ID of the first network device; and The one or more RS configurations are determined based on a received set of RS sequences or sequence IDs and a received set of periodicity and offset values.

23. The first network device according to any one of claims 16 to 20, wherein the first network device is further configured to: Receive a set of comb tooth sizes and comb tooth offset values ​​from the second network device, and a set of RS sequences associated with the cell ID of the first network device; and The one or more RS configurations are determined based on a received set of RS sequences or sequence IDs and a received set of comb tooth sizes and comb tooth offset values.

24. The first network device according to any one of claims 16 to 23, wherein the configuration information includes at least one of the following: The device ID; The device ID and the cell ID; Random number; or Multiple sets of RS sequence IDs, and the association information between the multiple sets of RS sequence IDs and the cell IDs of the multiple cells.

25. The first network device according to any one of claims 16 to 24, wherein the reference signal is a probe reference signal.

26. A second network device, comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory storing instructions, which, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the second network device to at least: At least one updated reference signal (RS) sequence ID is received from a terminal device or a serving network device of the terminal device, wherein the at least one updated RS sequence ID is updated for one or more RS configurations, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence configured by the serving network device and valid in a plurality of cells.

27. The second network device of claim 26, wherein the second network device is further configured to: Send the at least one updated RS sequence ID to the neighboring network devices of the serving network device.

28. The second network device according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the second network device is further configured to: Determine multiple sets of RS sequences associated with the plurality of cells; and Provide a set of RS sequences or sequence IDs associated with the cell ID of the first network device to configure the one or more RS configurations.

29. The second network device according to claim 28, wherein the second network device is further configured to: A set of periodicity and offset values ​​are provided to the first network device to configure the one or more RS configurations.

30. The second network device according to claim 28, wherein the second network device is further configured to: Provide the first network device with a set of comb tooth sizes and comb tooth offset values ​​to configure the one or more RS configurations.

31. A method comprising: The terminal device receives one or more reference signal (RS) configurations from the first network device, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence valid in multiple cells and at least one sequence identifier (ID). Based on configuration information including at least one of the device ID or cell ID of the terminal device, update the at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence; as well as The instruction to send the update of the at least one RS sequence ID.

32. A method comprising: A first network device sends one or more Reference Signal (RS) configurations to a terminal device, the one or more RS configurations including: at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells, at least one RS sequence identifier (ID), and configuration information used by the terminal device to update the at least one RS sequence ID, wherein the configuration information is based on at least one of the terminal device's device ID or cell ID; and The terminal device receives an indication of an update of at least one updated RS sequence ID.

33. A method comprising: The second network device receives at least one updated reference signal (RS) sequence ID from at least one of the terminal device or the serving network device of the terminal device, wherein the at least one updated RS sequence ID is updated for one or more RS configurations, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence configured by the serving network device and valid in a plurality of cells.

34. An apparatus comprising: A component for receiving one or more reference signal (RS) configurations from a first network device at a terminal device, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells and at least one RS sequence identifier (ID). A component for updating the at least one RS sequence ID of the at least one sequence based on configuration information including at least one of the device ID or cell ID of the terminal device; as well as A component for sending the update indication of the at least one RS sequence ID.

35. An apparatus comprising: Components for transmitting one or more reference signal (RS) configurations from a first network device to a terminal device, the one or more RS configurations including: at least one sequence valid in a plurality of cells, at least one RS sequence identifier (ID), and configuration information used by the terminal device to update the at least one RS sequence ID, wherein the configuration information is based on at least one of the terminal device's device ID or cell ID; and A component for receiving an indication of an update of at least one updated RS sequence ID from the terminal device.

36. An apparatus comprising: A component for receiving at least one updated reference signal (RS) sequence ID from a terminal device or a serving network device of the terminal device in a second network device, wherein the at least one updated RS sequence ID is updated for one or more RS configurations, the one or more RS configurations including at least one sequence configured by the serving network device and valid in a plurality of cells.

37. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising program instructions for causing a device to perform at least the method of any one of claims 31 to 33.

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