Lateral link positioning with changes in coverage scenarios

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a user equipment (UE), a network device, a processor, a method, and a non-transitory computer readable medium for sidelink positioning with changes in coverage scenarios. In one aspect, a first UE obtains a change in a network coverage state of the UE. The UE is a first UE or one of at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE. The first UE sends an indication of a change in network coverage status of the UE to a third UE associated with the first positioning operation or to the network device. In this manner, continuity of location services may be ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to wireless communication, and more particularly to user equipment (UE), network equipment, processor, method, and non-transitory computer-readable medium for sidelink positioning with changes in coverage scenarios. Background Technology

[0002] A wireless communication system may include one or more network communication devices (such as base stations), which may also be referred to as eNodeB (eNB), next-generation NodeB (gNB), or other suitable terms. Each network communication device (such as a base station) may support wireless communication for one or more user communication devices, which may also be referred to as user equipment (UE), or other suitable terms. The wireless communication system may support wireless communication with one or more user communication devices by utilizing the resources of the wireless communication system (e.g., time resources (e.g., symbols, time slots, subframes, frames, etc.) or frequency resources (e.g., subcarriers, carriers)). Additionally, the wireless communication system may support wireless communication across a variety of radio access technologies, including third-generation (3G) radio access technology, fourth-generation (4G) radio access technology, fifth-generation (5G) radio access technology, and other suitable radio access technologies above 5G (e.g., sixth-generation (6G)).

[0003] In sidelink (SL) positioning, dynamic topology caused by the mobility of involved UEs can pose challenges to positioning performance. Version 18 has agreed to support in-coverage (IC), partial-coverage (PC), and out-of-coverage (OOC) scenarios for SL positioning. Specifically, an IC scenario refers to a situation where all involved UEs are in the network, a PC scenario means that at least one involved UE remains in network coverage while other UEs are out of network coverage, and an OOC scenario refers to a situation where all involved UEs are out of network coverage. Changes in coverage scenarios are a mobility-related issue in SL positioning, including from OOC to PC, from PC to OOC, from IC to PC, and from PC to IC. Enhancements to solutions for SL positioning with changes in coverage scenarios are still needed. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure relates to a UE, a network device, a processor, a method for wireless communication, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium for sidelink positioning with changes in coverage scenarios. Embodiments of this disclosure can guarantee the continuity of positioning services when coverage scenarios are changed.

[0005] In a first aspect of the solution, a first UE acquires a change in the network coverage status of a UE, wherein the UE is either the first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; and sends an indication of the change in the network coverage status of the UE to a third UE associated with the first positioning operation or to a network device. Through the proposed solution, the first UE can notify the third UE or the network device of a change in the network coverage status of the involved UEs associated with the first positioning operation for the first UE, enabling the third UE or the network device to take action to ensure the continuity of positioning services.

[0006] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the UE is a first UE. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: sending auxiliary information to a network device or a third UE, the auxiliary information being used to determine a network device-dependent positioning operation or a network device-independent positioning operation for the first UE.

[0007] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the auxiliary information includes one of the following: mobility information of the first UE; Uu link quality of the first UE; or location request-related information.

[0008] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the indication of a change in the network coverage state of a UE includes: in the case that a first UE enters network coverage within a predefined time window, sending an indication to a third UE or network device that the network coverage state of the first UE has changed to within coverage.

[0009] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: sending a request to a network device for a location operation dependent on the network device when the network coverage state of the first UE changes to within coverage.

[0010] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is independent of the network device. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving an instruction from the network device for a positioning operation independent of the network device when the first UE is within network coverage; and continuing the first positioning operation.

[0011] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is independent of the network device. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving from the network device, when the first UE is within network coverage, a request for positioning session-related information associated with the first positioning operation or a request for positioning request-related information; and sending the positioning request-related information or positioning session-related information to the network device.

[0012] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving from a network device an instruction to be performed by a third UE or an instruction to release server functions when the first UE is within network coverage; and sending to the third UE an instruction to be performed by the third UE or an instruction to release server functions.

[0013] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may also include determining the corresponding network coverage state of at least one second UE when the network coverage state of the UE changes to outside network coverage.

[0014] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is network-device dependent. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: determining a third UE for network-device-independent positioning operations for the first UE when at least one second UE and the first UE are outside network coverage; and providing the third UE with the opportunity to perform the network-device-independent positioning operations.

[0015] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first UE serves as a third UE for location operations independent of network devices.

[0016] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may also include: sending information to at least one second UE for positioning operations of a third UE independent of network devices.

[0017] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: identifying a UE within network coverage as a relay UE for communication between the first UE and the network device when at least one second UE and the first UE are outside network coverage; and transmitting positioning results or measurement data associated with the first UE to the network device via the UE within coverage.

[0018] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may also include terminating the location session if the UE within the coverage area is not identified within a time period.

[0019] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is network-dependent, the first UE is within network coverage, and the UE is the second UE. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: reselecting the second UE when the network coverage status of the second UE changes to outside network coverage.

[0020] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is network-device dependent, and the UE is a first UE. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: determining a network-device dependent positioning operation or a network-device independent positioning operation for the first UE when the network coverage state of the first UE changes to out-of-coverage; and, if a network-device independent positioning operation is determined, sending an indication of a network-device independent positioning operation to the network device via a UE within coverage; or, if a network-device dependent positioning operation is determined, sending a request and auxiliary information for a network-device dependent positioning operation to the network device via a UE within coverage, the auxiliary information being used by the network device to determine whether the positioning operation is network-device dependent or network-device independent for the first UE.

[0021] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the auxiliary information includes mobility information of the first UE.

[0022] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the network coverage state of a first UE changes to outside coverage, and an indication of the change in network coverage state is sent to a network device via an inside-coverage UE.

[0023] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is dependent on the network device. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may also include receiving, via a UE within coverage area, information related to a positioning operation independent of the network device and a positioning request from the network device.

[0024] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is network-device dependent, and the network coverage state of the first UE changes to out-of-coverage. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: determining a third UE for a network-device-independent positioning operation, provided that a network-device-independent positioning operation is determined for the first UE.

[0025] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include sending one of the following to a third UE for a location operation independent of a network device: location request related information, location session related information associated with a first location operation, or an instruction for an operation to be performed by the third UE in a location operation independent of a network device.

[0026] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the location request-related information includes quality of service (QoS) requirements, and the location session-related information includes one of the following: information of at least one second UE; configuration for a sidelink location reference signal (SL-PRS) used for a first location operation; measurement configuration associated with the first location operation; measurement data in the first location operation; session identifier; transaction identifier; or indication of whether reliable transmission is enabled in the first location operation.

[0027] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, location request-related information or location session-related information is sent in a RequestAssistanceData message.

[0028] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, before obtaining information about a change in the network coverage state of the first UE, the first UE is outside network coverage, and the UE within coverage is a relay UE used for communication between the first UE and the network device. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: sending an instruction to the UE within coverage to release relay functionality when the network coverage state of the first UE changes to within coverage.

[0029] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the covered UE is a second UE among at least one second UE.

[0030] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, determining a change in the network coverage state of the second UE includes receiving an indication of a change in the network coverage state of the second UE from the second UE.

[0031] In a second aspect of the solution, the second UE determines a change in its network coverage status and sends an indication of this change to one of the following: the first UE, a third UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or a network device. Through the proposed solution, the second UE can notify the first UE, the third UE, or the network device of a change in its network coverage status associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, enabling the first UE, the third UE, or the network device to take action to ensure the continuity of location services.

[0032] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, sending an indication of a change in the network coverage state of the second UE includes one of the following: when the second UE enters network coverage within a predefined time window, sending an indication that the network coverage state of the second UE has changed to within coverage; or when the second UE moves out of network coverage, sending an indication to the first UE that the network coverage state of the second UE has changed to outside coverage.

[0033] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: sending auxiliary information to a network device or a third UE, the auxiliary information being used to determine a network device-dependent positioning operation or a network device-independent positioning operation for a first UE.

[0034] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the auxiliary information includes one of the following: mobility information of the second UE; Uu link quality of the second UE; or location request-related information.

[0035] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: sending a request to a network device for a location operation dependent on the network device when the network coverage state of the second UE changes to within coverage.

[0036] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is independent of the network device. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving an instruction from the network device for a positioning operation independent of the network device when the second UE is within network coverage; and continuing the first positioning operation.

[0037] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is independent of the network device. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving from the network device, when the second UE is within network coverage, a request for positioning session-related information associated with the first positioning operation or a request for positioning request-related information; and sending the positioning request-related information or positioning session-related information to the network device.

[0038] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving from a network device an instruction to be performed by a third UE or an instruction to release server functions when the second UE is within network coverage; and sending to the third UE an instruction to be performed by the third UE or an instruction to release server functions.

[0039] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may also include: receiving information from a first UE regarding a network device-independent positioning operation for the first UE; and performing the network device-independent positioning operation via the third UE and the first UE.

[0040] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device, and the second UE is within network coverage. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving an instruction from the first UE for a positioning operation independent of the network device; and sending an instruction for a positioning operation independent of the network device to the network device.

[0041] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is network-dependent, and the second UE is within network coverage. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving from the first UE a request and auxiliary information for a network-dependent positioning operation, the auxiliary information being used by the network device to determine whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network-dependent or network-independent; and sending the request and auxiliary information for the network-dependent positioning operation to the network device.

[0042] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the auxiliary information includes mobility information of the first UE.

[0043] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device, and the second UE is within network coverage. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving from the first UE an indication that the network coverage state of the first UE has changed to outside coverage; and sending the indication to the network device that the network coverage state of the first UE has changed to outside coverage.

[0044] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device, and the second UE is within network coverage. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving, from the network device, an instruction for a positioning operation independent of the network device and information related to a positioning request; and sending, to the first UE, an instruction for a positioning operation independent of the network device and information related to a positioning request.

[0045] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the location request-related information includes quality of service (QoS) requirements, and the location session-related information includes one of the following: information about at least one second UE associated with the first location operation; configuration for a sidelink location reference signal (SL-PRS) used in the first location operation; measurement configuration associated with the first location operation; measurement data in the first location operation; session identifier; transaction identifier; or indication of whether reliable transmission is enabled in the first location operation.

[0046] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the second UE is within network coverage and acts as a relay UE for communication between the first UE and the network device. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include receiving an instruction to release relay functionality from the first UE or the network device.

[0047] In a third aspect of the solution, the third UE receives one of the following: an indication of a change in the network coverage state of the UE (where the UE is a first UE or one of at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE), or information related to a positioning session associated with the first positioning operation, or information related to a positioning request. If the indication of a change in the network coverage state of the UE is received, the third UE determines whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network device dependent or network device independent. If the information related to the positioning request or the information related to the positioning session is received, the third UE performs a second positioning operation for the first UE based on the information related to the positioning request or the information related to the positioning session. Through the proposed solution, the third UE can be aware of changes in the network coverage state of the UEs involved in the first positioning operation for the first UE, enabling the third UE to take action to ensure the continuity of positioning services. Alternatively, the third UE can perform a second positioning operation based on information related to the first positioning operation, which also ensures the continuity of positioning services.

[0048] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving auxiliary information from the UE, wherein indications and auxiliary information based on changes in the UE's network coverage state, whether dependent on or independent of network device positioning operations, are determined.

[0049] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving auxiliary information from a first UE, wherein an indication and auxiliary information based on a change in the network coverage state of the UE, either dependent on or independent of the positioning operation of the network device, are determined.

[0050] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the auxiliary information includes one of the following: UE mobility information; UE Uu link quality; or location request related information.

[0051] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving from a network device or a UE within coverage an instruction to perform an operation by a third UE or an instruction to release a server function; and performing the operation if the instruction to perform the operation is received; or releasing the server function if the instruction to release the server function is received.

[0052] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the location request-related information includes quality of service (QoS) requirements, and the location session-related information includes one of the following: information of at least one second UE; configuration for a sidelink location reference signal (SL-PRS) used for a first location operation; measurement configuration associated with the first location operation; measurement data in the first location operation; session identifier; transaction identifier; or indication of whether reliable transmission is enabled in the first location operation.

[0053] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, location request-related information or location session-related information is received in a RequestAssistanceData message. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may also include: determining an updated measurement configuration or an updated configuration for SL-PRS, wherein a second location operation is performed based on the updated configuration or the updated measurement configuration.

[0054] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, performing the second positioning operation includes: receiving measurement data associated with a first UE in a ProvideLocationInformation message; and performing a location calculation for the first UE based on the measurement data.

[0055] In a fourth aspect of the solution, the network device receives an indication of a change in the network coverage state of a UE within its coverage area, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; and determines whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network device-dependent or network device-independent. Through the proposed solution, the network device can be aware of changes in the network coverage state of the involved UEs associated with the first positioning operation for the first UE, enabling the network device to take action to ensure the continuity of positioning services.

[0056] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving auxiliary information from a UE within coverage, wherein an indication and auxiliary information based on a change in the UE's network coverage state, either dependent on or independent of the positioning operation of the network device, are determined.

[0057] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the auxiliary information includes one of the following: UE mobility information; UE Uu link quality; or location request related information.

[0058] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may also include: receiving a request from a UE within coverage for a location operation dependent on a network device.

[0059] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is independent of the network device. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may also include: sending an indication of a positioning operation independent of the network device to a UE within the coverage area, provided that the positioning operation is determined.

[0060] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: sending a request to a UE within the coverage area for location session-related information associated with a first location operation or a request for location request-related information; and receiving location request-related information or location session-related information from a UE within the coverage area.

[0061] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: determining whether a network-dependent positioning operation is required for a third UE when the positioning operation is determined; and if the third UE is required, sending an instruction to the third UE via an in-coverage UE to perform an operation; or if the third UE is not required, sending an instruction to the third UE via an in-coverage UE to release server functions performed by the third UE.

[0062] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: when a network device-dependent positioning operation is determined, determining one of the following: performing a network device-dependent positioning operation by at least one second UE; reselecting a second UE for the network device-dependent positioning operation; or, if the first UE is within network coverage, terminating the sidelink positioning session and initiating a Uu positioning session or a hybrid Uu and PC5 positioning session.

[0063] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is network-dependent. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving positioning results or measurement data associated with the first UE from a UE within network coverage when the network-dependent positioning operation is determined and the first UE is outside network coverage.

[0064] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: determining an in-coverage UE for communication between the first UE and the network device when a location operation dependent on the network device is determined and the first UE is outside network coverage; and terminating the location session when an in-coverage UE is not determined.

[0065] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may also include: reselecting the second UE when the network coverage status of the second UE changes to outside network coverage.

[0066] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may also include: if the network device does not receive a response from the second UE within a time period, performing one of the following: reselecting the second UE; or terminating the location session.

[0067] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device, and the network coverage state of the second UE changes to out-of-coverage. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may also include receiving an instruction for a positioning operation independent of the network device from an in-coverage UE.

[0068] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is network-device dependent, and the network coverage state of the first UE changes to out-of-coverage. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: receiving a request and auxiliary information from an in-coverage UE for a network-device dependent positioning operation, and wherein an indication and auxiliary information based on a change in the UE's network coverage state are determined for either a network-device dependent positioning operation or a network-device independent positioning operation.

[0069] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the auxiliary information includes mobility information of the first UE.

[0070] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device, and the network coverage state of the first UE changes to out-of-coverage. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may also include sending, via an in-coverage UE, information related to an instruction for a positioning operation independent of the network device and a positioning request to the first UE.

[0071] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first positioning operation is network-device dependent, and the network coverage state of the first UE changes to out-of-coverage. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include: determining that a third UE is required for a network-device-dependent positioning operation when a network-device-independent positioning operation is determined for the first UE; and sending an indication that the third UE is required to the first UE via an in-coverage UE.

[0072] Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include sending one of the following to a third UE for a location operation independent of a network device: location request related information, location session related information associated with a first location operation, or an instruction for an operation to be performed by the third UE in a location operation independent of a network device.

[0073] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the location request-related information includes quality of service (QoS) requirements, and the location session-related information includes one of the following: information of at least one second UE; configuration for a sidelink location reference signal (SL-PRS) used for a first location operation; measurement configuration associated with the first location operation; measurement data in the first location operation; session identifier; transaction identifier; or indication of whether reliable transmission is enabled in the first location operation.

[0074] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the first UE is outside network coverage before receiving the instruction, and the UE within coverage is a relay UE used for communication between the first UE and the network device. Some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein may further include sending an instruction to the UE within coverage to release relay functionality when the network coverage state of the first UE changes to within coverage.

[0075] In some implementations of the methods and apparatus described herein, the covered UE is a second UE among at least one second UE, or a first UE. Attached Figure Description

[0076] Figure 1A An example of a wireless communication system supporting SL positioning with changes in coverage scenarios, according to various aspects of this disclosure, is illustrated.

[0077] Figure 1B An example of a wireless communication system supporting SL positioning in an IC scenario is illustrated according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0078] Figure 1C An example of a wireless communication system supporting SL positioning in a PC scenario is illustrated according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0079] Figure 1D An example of another wireless communication system supporting SL positioning in a PC scenario is illustrated according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0080] Figure 1E An example of a wireless communication system supporting SL positioning in an OOC scenario is illustrated according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0081] Figures 2A to 2G An example signaling diagram is illustrated for a communication process that supports SL positioning with changes in the coverage scenario, according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0082] Figure 3A The illustration shows an example of a wireless communication system in which the coverage scenario changes from an OOC scenario to a PC scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0083] Figure 3B An example of a wireless communication system whose coverage scenario changes from a PC scenario to an OOC scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated.

[0084] Figure 3C The illustration shows an example of a wireless communication system in which the coverage scenario changes from an IC scenario to a PC scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0085] Figure 3D The illustration shows an example of a wireless communication system whose coverage scenario changes from a PC scenario to an IC scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0086] Figures 4 to 7 An example of a device that supports SL positioning with changes in coverage scenarios according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated.

[0087] Figures 8 to 11 An example of a processor that supports SL positioning with changes in the coverage scenario, according to various aspects of this disclosure, is illustrated.

[0088] Figures 12 to 20 The diagram illustrates a flowchart of a method for supporting SL positioning with changes in the coverage scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure.

[0089] Throughout the accompanying drawings, the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements. Detailed Implementation

[0090] The principles of this disclosure will now be described with reference to some embodiments. It should be understood that these embodiments are described for illustrative purposes only and to assist those skilled in the art in understanding and implementing this disclosure, and do not imply any limitation on the scope of this disclosure. This disclosure described herein can be implemented in various ways other than those described below. 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.

[0091] References to "an embodiment," "example embodiment," "embodiment," etc., in this disclosure indicate that the described embodiments may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily includes that particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Furthermore, such phrases do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment(s). Additionally, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is believed that in conjunction with other embodiments (whether explicitly described or not) affecting such a feature, structure, or characteristic is within the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

[0092] It should be understood that although the terms “first” and “second”, etc., 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 embodiments, a first element may also be referred to as a second element, and similarly, a second element may also be referred to as a first element. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the listed terms. In some examples, values, processes, or devices are referred to as “best,” “lowest,” “highest,” “minimum,” “maximum,” etc. It should be understood that such descriptions are intended to indicate that a selection can be made among many functional alternatives used, and that such a selection does not need to be better, smaller, higher, or more preferred than other selections.

[0093] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the embodiments. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” as used herein are also intended to include the plural forms. It should also be understood that the terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” “having,” “including,” and / or “containing” as used herein specify the presence of the stated features, elements, components, etc., but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. For example, the term “comprising” and variations thereof should be understood as open terms meaning “including, but not limited to.” The term “based on” should be understood as “at least partially based on.” The terms “one embodiment” and “embodiment” should be understood as “at least one embodiment.” The term “another embodiment” should be understood as “at least one other embodiment.” The use of expressions such as “A and / or B” can mean “only A” or “only B” or “both A and B.” Other explicit and implicit definitions may be included below.

[0094] As mentioned above, version 18 has agreed to support IC, PC, and OOC scenarios for SL positioning. In RAN2#119-e, it is agreed that for lateral link positioning, in-coverage, partial-coverage, and out-of-coverage scenarios should be supported. Further research is needed if partial-coverage scenarios assume which UEs are in coverage.

[0095] 3GPP Technical Requirements (TR) 38.859 provides the following potential architecture for SL positioning and sidelink positioning solutions.

[0096] In SL positioning, dynamic topology caused by the mobility of the involved UEs can pose challenges to positioning performance. For example, changes in coverage scenarios are a mobility-related issue in SL positioning, including from OOC to PC, from PC to OOC, from IC to PC, and from PC to IC. Solutions for mobility-related SL positioning have not yet been discussed and require further investigation. In some cases, it is desirable to ensure the continuity of positioning services when coverage scenarios change. Associated signaling and procedures need to be designed.

[0097] In view of the above, embodiments of the present invention provide a solution for SL positioning with changes in coverage scenarios. In one aspect of this solution, a first UE obtains a change in the network coverage state of the UE. The UE is either the first UE or one of at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE. The first UE sends an indication of the change in the network coverage state to a third UE associated with the first positioning operation or to a network device. Through the proposed solution, the first UE can notify the third UE or the network device of the change in the network coverage state of the involved UEs associated with the first positioning operation for the first UE, enabling the third UE or the network device to take action to ensure the continuity of positioning services.

[0098] Figure 1A An example of a wireless communication system 100 supporting SL positioning with changes in coverage scenarios according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated. The wireless communication system 100 may include one or more network entities 102 (also referred to as network devices (NEs) or network apparatuses), one or more UEs 104, a core network 106, and a packet data network 108. The wireless communication system 100 may support various radio access technologies. In some implementations, the wireless communication system 100 may be a 4G network, such as an LTE network or an LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) network. In some other implementations, the wireless communication system 100 may be a 5G network, such as an NR network. In other implementations, the wireless communication system 100 may be a combination of 4G and 5G networks, or other suitable radio access technologies, including IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), and IEEE 802.20. The wireless communication system 100 may support radio access technologies beyond 5G. In addition, the wireless communication system 100 can support technologies such as time division multiple access (TDMA), frequency division multiple access (FDMA), or code division multiple access (CDMA).

[0099] One or more network entities 102 may be distributed throughout a geographic area to form a wireless communication system 100. One or more network entities among the network entities 102 described herein may be, include, or may be referred to as network nodes, base stations, network elements, radio access networks (RANs), base transceiver stations, access points, NodeBs, eNodeBs (eNBs), next-generation NodeBs (gNBs), or other suitable terms. Network entities 102 and UE 104 may communicate via communication link 110, which may be a wireless or wired connection. For example, network entities 102 and UE 104 may perform wireless communication (e.g., receive signaling, send signaling) via a Uu interface.

[0100] Network entity 102 may provide a geographic coverage area 112 for which network entity 102 may support services (e.g., voice, video, packet data, messaging, broadcasting, etc.) for one or more UEs 104 within the geographic coverage area 112. For example, network entity 102 and UE 104 may support wireless communication of signals associated with services (e.g., voice, video, packet data, messaging, broadcasting, etc.) based on one or more wireless access technologies. In some implementations, network entity 102 may be mobile, for example, a satellite associated with a non-terrestrial network. In some implementations, different geographic coverage areas 112 associated with the same or different radio access technologies may overlap, but different geographic coverage areas 112 may be associated with different network entities 102. The information and signals described herein may be represented using any of a variety of different technologies and techniques. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips that may be referenced throughout the description may be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, light fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[0101] One or more UEs 104 may be distributed throughout the geographic area of ​​the wireless communication system 100. UE 104 may include or be referred to as a mobile device, wireless device, remote device, remote unit, handheld device, or subscriber device, or some other suitable term. In some implementations, UE 104 may be referred to as a unit, station, terminal, or client, or other examples. Alternatively or additionally, UE 104 may be referred to as an Internet of Things (IoT) device, an Internet of Everything (IoE) device, or a Machine Type Communication (MTC) device, or other examples. In some implementations, UE 104 may be stationary within the wireless communication system 100. In some other implementations, UE 104 may be mobile within the wireless communication system 100.

[0102] One or more UEs 104 can be devices of different forms or with different capabilities. Some examples of UEs 104 are shown in... Figure 1A The diagram shows that UE 104 can communicate with various types of devices, such as network entity 102, other UEs 104, or network devices (e.g., core network 106, packet data network 108, relay equipment, integrated access and backhaul (IAB) node, or another network device). Figure 1A As shown. Alternatively or concurrently, UE 104 may support communication with other network entities 102 or UE 104, and may act as a relay in wireless communication system 100.

[0103] UE 104 can also support direct wireless communication with other UE 104s via communication link 114. For example, UE 104 can support direct wireless communication with another UE 104 via a device-to-device (D2D) communication link. In some implementations, such as vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) deployments, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) deployments, or cellular V2X deployments, communication link 114 may be referred to as a sidelink. For example, UE 104 can support direct wireless communication with another UE 104 via a PC5 interface.

[0104] Network entity 102 may support communication with core network 106, or with another network entity 102, or both. For example, network entity 102 may interface with core network 106 via one or more backhaul links 116 (e.g., via S1, N2, N2, or another network interface). Network entities 102 may communicate with each other via backhaul links 116 (e.g., via X2, Xn, or another network interface). In some implementations, network entities 102 may communicate directly with each other (e.g., between network entities 102). In some other implementations, network entities 102 may communicate with each other or indirectly (e.g., via core network 106). In some implementations, one or more network entities 102 may include sub-components, such as access network entities, which may be examples of access node controllers (ANCs). The ANC may communicate with one or more UEs 104 via one or more other access network transport entities (which may be referred to as radio heads, smart radio heads, or transmit-receive points (TRPs)).

[0105] In some implementations, network entity 102 can be configured with a decomposed architecture that can utilize protocol stacks physically or logically distributed across two or more network entities 102, such as an integrated access backhaul (IAB) network, an open RAN (O-RAN) (e.g., a network configuration sponsored by the O-RAN Alliance), or a virtualized RAN (vRAN) (e.g., a cloud RAN (C-RAN)). For example, network entity 102 may include one or more of the following: a central unit (CU), a distributed unit (DU), a radio unit (RU), a RAN intelligent controller (RIC) (e.g., a near real-time RIC, a non-real-time RIC), a service management and orchestration (SMO) system, or any combination thereof.

[0106] An RU can also be referred to as a radio head, intelligent radio head, remote radio head (RRH), remote radio unit (RRU), or transmit-receive point (TRP). One or more components of network entity 102 in a decomposed RAN architecture can be co-located, or one or more components of network entity 102 can be located in distributed locations (e.g., separate physical locations). In some implementations, one or more network entities 102 in a decomposed RAN architecture can be implemented as virtual units (e.g., virtual CU (VCU), virtual DU (VDU), virtual RU (VRU)).

[0107] The functional splitting among CU, DU, and RU can be flexible and can depend on which functions (e.g., network layer functions, protocol layer functions, baseband functions, radio frequency functions, and any combination thereof) are executed at the CU, DU, or RU to support different functions. For example, protocol stack functional splitting can be adopted between CU and DU so that CU can support one or more layers of the protocol stack, and DU can support one or more different layers of the protocol stack. In some implementations, CU can host upper-layer protocol layer (e.g., Layer 3 (L3), Layer 2 (L2)) functions and signaling (e.g., Radio Resource Control (RRC), Serving Data Adaptation Protocol (SDAP), Packet Data Convergence Protocol (PDCP)). CU can be connected to one or more DU or RU, and one or more DU or RU can host lower-layer protocol layer, such as Layer 1 (L1) (e.g., Physical (PHY) layer) or L2 (e.g., Radio Link Control (RLC) layer, Media Access Control (MAC) layer) functions and signaling, and each can be at least partially controlled by CU 160.

[0108] Alternatively or concurrently, functional splitting of the protocol stack can be employed between the DU and RU, such that the DU can support one or more layers of the protocol stack, and the RU can support one or more different layers of the protocol stack. The DU can support one or more different cells (e.g., via one or more RUs). In some implementations, functional splitting between the CU and DU, or between the DU and RU, can be performed within the protocol layer (e.g., some functions for the protocol layer can be performed by one of the CU, DU, or RU, while other functions of the protocol layer are performed by a different one of the CU, DU, or RU).

[0109] The CU can be further functionally divided into CU control plane (CU-CP) and CU user plane (CU-UP) functions. The CU can be connected to one or more DUs via midhaul communication links (e.g., F1, F1-c, F1-u), and the DUs can be connected to one or more RUs via fronthaul communication links (e.g., open fronthaul (FH) interfaces). In some implementations, the midhaul or fronthaul communication links can be implemented based on interfaces (e.g., channels) between layers of a protocol stack supported by corresponding network entities 102 communicating via such communication links.

[0110] Core network 106 can support user authentication, access authorization, tracking, connectivity, and other access, routing, or mobility functions. Core network 106 can be an evolved packet core (EPC) or a 5G core (5GC), which may include control plane entities that manage access and mobility (e.g., a mobility management entity (MME), access and mobility management functions (AMF)) and user plane entities that route packets or interconnections to external networks (e.g., a serving gateway (S-GW), a packet data network (PDN) gateway (P-GW), or a user plane function (UPF)). In some implementations, the control plane entities may manage non-access stratum (NAS) functions, such as mobility, authentication, and bearer management (e.g., data bearers, signaling bearers, etc.) for one or more UEs 104 served by one or more network entities 102 associated with core network 106.

[0111] Core network 106 can communicate with packet data network 108 via one or more backhaul links 116 (e.g., via S1, N2, N2, or another network interface). Packet data network 108 may include application server 118. In some implementations, one or more UEs 104 may communicate with application server 118. UE 104 may establish a session with core network 106 (e.g., Protocol Data Unit (PDU) session, etc.) via network entity 102. Core network 106 can use the established session (e.g., an established PDU session) to route services (e.g., control information, data, etc.) between UE 104 and application server 118. A PDU session may be an example of a logical connection between UE 104 and core network 106 (e.g., one or more network functions of core network 106).

[0112] In the wireless communication system 100, network entity 102 and UE 104 can use the resources of the wireless communication system 100 (e.g., time resources (e.g., symbols, time slots, subframes, frames, etc.) or frequency resources (e.g., subcarriers, carriers)) to perform various operations (e.g., wireless communication). In some implementations, network entity 102 and UE 104 can support different resource structures. For example, network entity 102 and UE 104 can support different frame structures. In some implementations, such as in 4G, network entity 102 and UE 104 can support a single frame structure. In some other implementations, such as in 5G and other suitable radio access technologies, network entity 102 and UE 104 can support various frame structures (i.e., multiple frame structures). Network entity 102 and UE 104 can support various frame structures based on parameter sets.

[0113] One or more parameter sets may be supported in the wireless communication system 100, and the parameter sets may include subcarrier spacing and cyclic prefix. The first parameter set (e.g., μ =0) can be associated with the first subcarrier spacing (e.g., 15kHz) and the normal cyclic prefix. In some implementations, the first parameter set (e.g., ) associated with the first subcarrier spacing (e.g., 15kHz) is... μ =0) can utilize one time slot per subframe. The second parameter set (e.g., μ =1) can be associated with the second subcarrier spacing (e.g., 30kHz) and the normal cyclic prefix. The third parameter set (e.g., μ =2) can be associated with the third subcarrier spacing (e.g., 60 kHz) and a normal cyclic prefix or an extended cyclic prefix. The fourth parameter set (e.g., μ =3) can be associated with the fourth subcarrier spacing (e.g., 120 kHz) and the normal cyclic prefix. The fifth parameter set (e.g., μ=4) can be associated with the fifth subcarrier spacing (e.g., 240 kHz) and the normal cyclic prefix.

[0114] The time intervals of resources (e.g., communication resources) can be organized according to frames (also known as radio frames). Each frame can have a duration, for example, 10 milliseconds (ms). In some implementations, each frame can include multiple subframes. For example, each frame can include 10 subframes, and each subframe can have a duration, for example, 1 ms. In some implementations, each frame can have the same duration. In some implementations, each subframe of a frame can have the same duration.

[0115] Alternatively or concurrently, the time intervals of resources (e.g., communication resources) can be organized according to time slots. For example, a subframe may include a certain number (e.g., quantity) of time slots. The number of time slots in each subframe may also depend on one or more parameter sets supported in the wireless communication system 100. For example, a first parameter set, a second parameter set, a third parameter set, a fourth parameter set, and a fifth parameter set (i.e., ...) associated with corresponding subcarrier intervals of 15 kHz, 30 kHz, 60 kHz, 120 kHz, and 240 kHz. μ =0、 μ =1、 μ =2、 μ =3、 μ =4) One time slot per subframe, two time slots per subframe, four time slots per subframe, eight time slots per subframe, and 16 time slots per subframe can be used respectively. Each time slot can include a certain number (e.g., quantity) of symbols (e.g., OFDM symbols). In some implementations, the number (e.g., quantity) of time slots used for a subframe can depend on the parameter set. For a normal cyclic prefix, a time slot can include 14 symbols. For an extended cyclic prefix (e.g., for a 60kHz subcarrier spacing), a time slot can include 12 symbols. The relationship between the number of symbols per time slot, the number of time slots per subframe, and the number of time slots per frame for both normal and extended cyclic prefixes can depend on the parameter set. It should be understood that for a first parameter set (e.g., quantity) associated with a first subcarrier spacing (e.g., 15kHz), μ The reference of (=0) can be used interchangeably between subframes and time slots.

[0116] In the wireless communication system 100, the electromagnetic (EM) spectrum can be divided into various categories, frequency bands, frequency channels, etc., based on frequency or wavelength. For example, the wireless communication system 100 can support one or more operating frequency bands, such as frequency range names FR1 (410MHz-7.125GHz), FR2 (24.25GHz-52.6GHz), FR3 (7.125GHz-24.25GHz), FR4 (52.6GHz-114.25GHz), FR4a or FR4-1 (52.6GHz-71GHz), and FR5 (114.25GHz-300GHz). In some implementations, network entity 102 and UE 104 can perform wireless communication through one or more operating frequency bands. In some implementations, FR1 can be used by other devices or apparatuses such as network entity 102 and UE 104 for cellular communication services (e.g., control information, data). In some implementations, FR2 can be used by other devices or apparatuses such as network entity 102 and UE 104 for short-range, high data rate capabilities.

[0117] FR1 can be associated with one or more parameter sets (e.g., at least three parameter sets). For example, FR1 can be associated with the following: the first parameter set (e.g., μ =0), which includes a 15kHz subcarrier spacing; the second parameter set (e.g., μ =1), which includes a 30kHz subcarrier spacing; and a third parameter set (e.g., μ =2), which includes a subcarrier spacing of 60 kHz. FR2 can be associated with one or more parameter sets (e.g., at least two parameter sets). For example, FR2 can be associated with the following: a third parameter set (e.g., μ =2), which includes a 60kHz subcarrier spacing; and a fourth parameter set (e.g., μ =3), which includes a subcarrier spacing of 120kHz.

[0118] Figures 1B to 1E Examples of wireless communication systems supporting SL positioning in various coverage scenarios are illustrated according to various aspects of this disclosure. In particular, Figure 1B An example of a wireless communication system 100-1 supporting SL positioning in an IC scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated. It should be noted that the wireless communication system 100-1 can be considered as... Figure 1A A portion of or a specific example of the wireless communication system 100 in the text.

[0119] For discussion purposes, the wireless communication system 100-1 may include a network entity (e.g., a base station) 102, a first UE 104-1, a second UE 104-2, and a location management function (LMF) 106-1. The first UE 104-1 and the second UE 104-2 may be located within the geographical coverage area 112 of the network entity 102. The LMF 106-1 may be a network element of the core network 106. It should be understood that the LMF 106-1 is for illustrative purposes only. Other types of location servers are also possible. In the SL positioning operation of the first UE 104-1, the first UE may send a sidelink positioning reference signal (SL-PRS) to the second UE 104-2. The second UE 104-2 may obtain measurement results based on the received SL-PRS and report the measurement results to the LMF 106-1 via the network entity 102. The LMF 106-1 may calculate the location of the first UE 104-1 based on the measurement results. In this type of positioning operation, the first UE 104-1 is the target UE, and the second UE 104-2 is the anchor UE. In the following description, the first UE 104-1 may also be referred to as the target UE or T-UE, and the second UE may also be referred to as the anchor UE or A-UE.

[0120] It should be understood that Figure 1B The SL positioning operation in the IC scenario is for illustrative purposes only. Other SL positioning operations are also possible in the IC scenario. For example, there may be a server UE responsible for calculating the location of the target UE 104-1. The server UE may be the target UE, one of the anchor UEs, or a UE different from both the target UE and the anchor UE. The LMF 106-1 can receive the calculation results from the server UE. Optionally, the LMF 106-1 may assist the server UE in performing location calculations. In the following description, the terms "network device dependent positioning operation" and "LMF dependent positioning operation" may refer to situations where a location server (such as an LMF) is involved in the positioning operation and can be used interchangeably. The terms "network device independent positioning operation" and "LMF independent positioning operation" may be used interchangeably and may refer to situations where the server UE is responsible for calculating the location of the target UE without involving the LMF.

[0121] Figure 1C An example of a wireless communication system 100-2 supporting SL positioning in a PC scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated. It should be noted that the wireless communication system 100-2 can be considered as... Figure 1A A portion of or a specific example of the wireless communication system 100. Similar reference numerals are used to indicate... Figure 1C The description in the middle has the same Figure 1BThe steps or components that are the same as those described in the previous section, and their specific implementations will be omitted.

[0122] In the example wireless communication system 100-2, at least one anchor UE 104-2 is within the geographical coverage area 112 of network entity 102, while the target UE 104-1 and other anchor UEs 104-2 are outside the geographical coverage area 112 of network entity 102. The anchor UE 104-2 within the geographical coverage area 112 may also be referred to as an IC anchor UE or an anchor IC UE. Anchor UEs 104-2 outside the geographical coverage area 112 can send measurement results to IC anchor UEs 104-2. IC anchor UEs 104-2 can report the measurement results to LMF 106-1 via network entity 102. LMF 106-1 can calculate the location of the target UE 104-1 based on the measurement results.

[0123] Figure 1D An example of another wireless communication system 100-3 supporting SL positioning in a PC scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated. It should be noted that wireless communication system 100-3 can be considered as... Figure 1A A portion of or a specific example of the wireless communication system 100. Similar reference numerals are used to indicate... Figure 1D The description in the middle has the same Figure 1B and Figure 1C The steps or components that are the same as those described in the previous section, and their specific implementations will be omitted.

[0124] For discussion purposes, wireless communication system 100-3 may include network entity 102, target UE 104-1, anchor UE 104-2, third UE 104-3, and LMF 106-1. In example wireless communication system 100-3, target UE 104-1 and third UE 104-3 are within the geographical coverage area 112 of network entity 102, while anchor UE 104-2 is outside the geographical coverage area 112 of network entity 102. In the SL positioning operation of target UE 104-1, anchor UE 104-2 may acquire measurement results based on the received SL-PRS and report the measurement results to third UE 104-3. Third UE 104-3 may estimate the location of target UE 104-1 based on the measurement results and then transmit the estimated location result of target UE 104-1 to LMF 106-1 via network entity 102. In this type of location operation, the third UE 104-3 acts as the server UE. In the following description, the third UE 104-3 may also be referred to as the server UE or S-UE. In the following description, the terms "location result" and "location result" are used interchangeably, and the terms "location" and "location" are used interchangeably.

[0125] It should be understood that Figure 1C and Figure 1D The SL positioning operation in the PC scenario is for illustrative purposes only. Other SL positioning operations are also possible in the PC scenario. For example, server UE 104-3 can be outside the geographical coverage area 112 and can send the positioning result to target UE 104-1, which can then forward the estimated positioning result to LMF 106-1.

[0126] Figure 1E An example of another wireless communication system 100-4 supporting SL positioning in an OOC scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated. It should be noted that wireless communication system 100-4 can be considered as... Figure 1A A portion of or a specific example of the wireless communication system 100. Similar reference numerals are used to indicate... Figure 1E The description in the middle has the same Figures 1B to 1D The steps or components that are the same as those described in the previous section, and their specific implementations will be omitted.

[0127] In the example wireless communication system 100-4, the target UE 104-1 and the anchor UE 104-2 are outside the geographical coverage area 112 of network entity 102. Anchor UE 104-2 can send measurement results to target UE 104-1. Target UE 104-1 can send measurement results to relay UE 104-4. Relay UE 104-4 is within geographical coverage area 112 and has relay functionality for communication between target UE 104-1 and the network entity. Relay UE 104-4 can forward measurement results to LMF 106-1 via network entity 102. LMF 106-1 can calculate the location of target UE 104-1 based on the measurement results.

[0128] It should be understood that Figure 1E The SL positioning operation in the OOC scenario is for illustrative purposes only. Other SL positioning operations are also possible in the OOC scenario. For example, there may be a server UE responsible for calculating the location of target UE 104-1. Relay UE 104-4 can forward the calculation result to LMF 106-1.

[0129] Now for reference Figure 2A This illustrates example signaling diagrams of a communication procedure 200A supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario, according to some example embodiments of the present disclosure. For discussion purposes, procedure 200A will be referenced... Figures 1A to 1E Described. Process 200A may involve, for example... Figures 1B to 1E The target UE 104-1 and server UE 104-3 are shown. It should be understood that... Figure 2AThe steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. It should be understood that process 200A may also include additional boxes not shown and / or omit some of the boxes shown, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0130] like Figure 2A As shown, target UE 104-1 obtains 201 a change in the network coverage state of the UE. In some embodiments, the UE is target UE 104-1. Alternatively, the UE is one of at least one anchor UE 104-2 associated with a first positioning operation for target UE 104-1. Target UE 104-1 sends 202 an indication 203 of the change in the network coverage state of the UE to server UE 104-3 associated with the first positioning operation. Server UE 104-3 receives 204 the indication 203 of the change in the network coverage state of the UE and determines 205 whether the positioning operation for target UE 104-1 is network device dependent or network device independent.

[0131] In some implementations, target UE 104-1 may report only changes in its own network coverage status to server UE 104-3. In this case, the UE is always target UE 104-1. In some other implementations, target UE 104-1 may report changes in the network coverage status of involved UEs during its positioning operation. In this case, the UE may be either target UE 104-1 or anchor UE 104-2. In some embodiments, the UE may be anchor UE 104-2. Target UE 104-1 may receive an indication of a change in the network coverage status of anchor UE 104-2 from anchor UE 104-2 and send the indication of the change in the network coverage status of anchor UE 104-2 to server UE 104-3.

[0132] In some embodiments, the UE may be the target UE 104-1. The target UE 104-1 may send auxiliary information to the server UE 104-3 for determining 205. The auxiliary information may include mobility information of the target UE 104-1. Alternatively or additionally, the auxiliary information may include the Uu link quality of the target UE 104-1. Alternatively or additionally, the auxiliary information may include location request-related information, such as the QoS requirements for location services for the target UE 104-1.

[0133] In some embodiments, after target UE 104-1 enters network coverage within a predefined time window, target UE 104-1 can report its network coverage status change to within coverage to server UE 104-3. In this way, the ping-pong effect can be avoided.

[0134] Figure 2B Example signaling diagrams are shown for a communication procedure 200B supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario, according to some example embodiments of this disclosure. For discussion purposes, procedure 200B will refer to... Figures 1A to 1E Described. Process 200B may involve, for example... Figures 1B to 1E The target UE 104-1 and network device 206-1 are shown. Network device 206-1 can be as follows: Figure 1A The network elements of core network 106 shown. For example, network device 206-1 can be implemented as a location server, such as... Figures 1B to 1E The LMF 106-1 shown is an example. Other types of location servers are also possible. It should be understood that... Figure 2B The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and not for limitation. Similar reference numerals are used to indicate... Figure 2B The description in the middle has the same Figure 2A The steps or components that are the same as those described herein will be omitted, and their specific implementations will be omitted. It should be understood that process 200B may also include additional boxes not shown and / or omit some of the boxes shown, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0135] like Figure 2B As shown, target UE 104-1 receives 201 a change in UE's network coverage status. Target UE 104-1 sends 212 an indication 203 of the change in UE's network coverage status to network device 206-1. Network device 206-1 receives 214 the indication 203 of the change in UE's network coverage status and determines 215 whether the positioning operation for target UE 104-1 is network device dependent or network device independent.

[0136] In some implementations, target UE 104-1 may report only changes in its own network coverage status to network device 206-1. In this case, the UE is always target UE 104-1. In some other implementations, target UE 104-1 may report changes in the network coverage status of involved UEs during its positioning operation. In this case, the UE may be either target UE 104-1 or anchor UE 104-2. In some embodiments, the UE may be anchor UE 104-2. Target UE 104-1 may receive an indication of a change in the network coverage status of anchor UE 104-2 from anchor UE 104-2 and send the indication of the change in the network coverage status of anchor UE 104-2 to network device 206-1.

[0137] In some embodiments, the UE may be the target UE 104-1. The target UE 104-1 may send auxiliary information to the network device 206-1 for determining 215. The auxiliary information may include mobility information of the target UE 104-1. Alternatively or additionally, the auxiliary information may include the Uu link quality of the target UE 104-1. Alternatively or additionally, the auxiliary information may include location request-related information, such as the QoS requirements for location services for the target UE 104-1.

[0138] In some embodiments, after target UE 104-1 enters network coverage within a predefined time window, target UE 104-1 can report its network coverage status change to within coverage to network device 206-1. In this way, the ping-pong effect can be avoided.

[0139] In some embodiments, if the network coverage status of target UE 104-1 changes to within coverage, target UE 104-1 may send a request to network device 206-1 for a location operation dependent on the network device. For example, network device 206-1 may perform determination 215 based at least on this request.

[0140] In some implementations, the first location operation can be independent of the network device. If network device 206-1 determines that 215 is performing a network device-independent location operation for target UE 104-1, then network device 206-1 can send an indication of the network device-independent location operation to target UE 104-1. Target UE 104-1 can continue the first location operation after receiving this indication.

[0141] In some embodiments, network device 206-1 may send a request to target UE 104-1 for location session-related information associated with a first location operation and / or a request for location request-related information. Target UE 104-1 may send location session-related information and / or location request-related information to network device 206-1. For example, the first location operation may be independent of the network device, and network device 206-1 may determine a location operation dependent on the network device when it knows that the UE's network coverage status has changed to within coverage. Network device 206-1 may require location session-related information and / or location request-related information to ensure the continuity and performance of location services.

[0142] In some embodiments, location request-related information may include Quality of Service (QoS) requirements. Location session-related information may include information about at least one anchor UE 104-2. Alternatively or additionally, location session-related information may include configuration for a sidelink positioning reference signal (SL-PRS) used in the first location operation. Alternatively or additionally, location session-related information may include measurement configuration associated with the first location operation. Alternatively or additionally, location session-related information may include measurement data from the first location operation. Alternatively or additionally, location session-related information may include a session identifier. Alternatively or additionally, location session-related information may include a transaction identifier. Alternatively or additionally, location session-related information may include an indication of whether reliable transmission is enabled in the first location operation.

[0143] In some embodiments, if a location operation dependent on a network device is determined, network device 206-1 can determine whether a location operation dependent on a network device is required for server UE 104-3. If network device 206-1 determines that server UE 104-3 is required, network device 206-1 can send an instruction to target UE 104-1 indicating the operation to be performed by server UE 104-3 (e.g., the duties of server UE 104-3). Target UE 104-1 can forward this instruction to server UE 104-3. If network device 206-1 determines that server UE is not required, network device 206-1 can send an instruction to target UE 104-1 indicating the release of server functions performed by server UE 104-3. Target UE 104-1 can forward this instruction to server UE 104-3.

[0144] In some embodiments, if the network coverage status of target UE 104-1 changes to out-of-coverage, target UE 104-1 may send an indication of the change in network coverage status to network device 206-1 via an in-coverage UE. The in-coverage UE may act as a relay UE between target UE 104-1 and network device 206-1. In some implementations, the in-coverage UE may be an anchor point among at least one anchor UE associated with a first positioning operation of target UE 104-1. In some embodiments, the first positioning operation may be network device dependent, and target UE 104-1 receives, via the in-coverage UE, information related to a positioning operation independent of the network device and a positioning request from network device 206-1.

[0145] In some embodiments, the first location operation may be network device dependent. If the network coverage state of the target UE 104-1 changes to out-of-coverage, the target UE 104-1 may determine a network device dependent location operation or a network device independent location operation for the target UE 104-1. If the target UE 104-1 determines a network device independent location operation, the target UE 104-1 may send an indication of the network device independent location operation to the network device 206-1 via an in-coverage UE. If the target UE 104-1 determines a network device dependent location operation, the target UE 104-1 may send a request for the network device dependent location operation and auxiliary information for determining 215 to the network device 206-1 via an in-coverage UE. The auxiliary information may include mobility information of the target UE 104-1. The in-coverage UE may act as a relay UE for communication between the target UE 104-1 and the network device 206-1. In some implementations, the in-coverage UE may be an anchor point among at least one anchor UE associated with the first location operation of the target UE 104-1.

[0146] In some cases, the target UE 104-1 may initially be outside network coverage, and the UE within coverage may be a relay UE for communication between the target UE 104-1 and network device 206-1. In some implementations, the UE within coverage may be an anchor UE among at least one anchor UE associated with the first positioning operation of the target UE 104-1. If the network coverage state of the target UE 104-1 changes to within coverage, the target UE 104-1 may send an indication to the UE within coverage to release relay functionality.

[0147] Figure 2C Example signaling diagrams are shown for a communication procedure 200C supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario, according to some example embodiments of this disclosure. For discussion purposes, procedure 200C will refer to... Figures 1A to 1E Described. Process 200C may involve, for example... Figures 1B to 1E The target UE 104-1 and anchor UE 104-2 are shown. It should be understood that... Figure 2C The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. It should be understood that process 200C may also include additional boxes not shown and / or omit some of the boxes shown, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0148] like Figure 2CAs shown, anchor UE 104-2 determines 221 that the network coverage status of anchor UE 104-2 has changed. Anchor UE 104-2 sends 222 an indication 223 of the change in network coverage status to target UE 104-1. Target UE 104-1 receives 224 the indication 223 of the change in network coverage status of anchor UE 104-2 from anchor UE 104-2.

[0149] In some embodiments, when sending indication 222, if anchor UE 104-2 moves out of network coverage, anchor UE 104-2 sends an indication to target UE 104-1 that the network coverage status of anchor UE 104-2 has changed to out of coverage. When sending indication 222, if anchor UE 104-2 enters network coverage within a predefined time window, anchor UE 104-2 sends indication 222 that the network coverage status of anchor UE 104-2 has changed to in coverage. In this way, the ping-pong effect can be avoided.

[0150] In some cases, the first positioning operation may be network device dependent. If the network coverage status of the UE changes to out of network coverage, the target UE 104-1 can determine the corresponding network coverage status of at least one anchor UE associated with the first positioning operation of the target UE 104-1.

[0151] In some embodiments, if at least one anchor UE associated with the first positioning operation of target UE 104-1, and target UE 104-1, are outside network coverage—for example, if target UE 104-1 determines that the coverage scenario has changed to an OOC scenario—target UE 104-1 may determine a server UE 104-3 for network device-independent positioning operations for target UE 104-1, and provide server UE 104-3 to perform network device-independent positioning operations. In some implementations, target UE 104-1 may act as server UE 104-3 for network device-independent positioning operations. In other words, target UE 104-1 may determine itself as a server UE.

[0152] The target UE 104-1 can send information about a selected server UE 104-3 for network device-independent positioning operations to at least one anchor UE. The anchor UE 104-2 can receive information from the server UE 104-3 from the target UE 104-1 and perform network device-independent positioning operations through the server UE 104-3 and the target UE 104-1.

[0153] In some embodiments, the first positioning operation may be network device dependent. If at least one anchor UE and the target UE 104-1 are outside network coverage, the target UE 104-1 may identify the UE within coverage as a relay UE for communication between the target UE 104-1 and the network device 206-1. If the UE within coverage is not identified within a time period, the target UE 104-1 may terminate the positioning session. If the UE within coverage is identified, the target UE 104-1 may send positioning results or measurement data associated with the target UE 104-1 to the network device 206-1 via the UE within coverage.

[0154] In some embodiments, the first positioning operation may be network device dependent, and the target UE 104-1 may be within network coverage. If the network coverage status of the anchor UE 104-2 changes to outside network coverage, the target UE 104-1 may reselect an anchor point.

[0155] Figure 2D Example signaling diagrams are shown for a communication procedure 200D supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario, according to some example embodiments of this disclosure. For discussion purposes, procedure 200D will refer to... Figures 1A to 1E Described. Process 200D may involve, for example... Figures 1B to 1E The server UE 104-3 and anchor UE 104-2 are shown. It should be understood that... Figure 2D The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and not for limitation. Similar reference numerals are used to indicate... Figure 2D The description in the middle has the same Figures 2A-2C The steps or components that are the same as those described herein will be omitted, and their specific implementations will be omitted. It should be understood that process 200D may also include additional boxes not shown and / or omit some of the boxes shown, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0156] like Figure 2D As shown, anchor UE 104-2 determines 221 a change in the network coverage state of anchor UE 104-2. Anchor UE 104-2 sends 232 an indication 223 of the change in network coverage state to server UE 104-3. Server UE 104-3 receives 234 the indication 223 of the change in network coverage state of anchor UE 104-2 from anchor UE 104-2. Server UE 104-3 determines 205 whether the positioning operation is network device dependent or network device independent for target UE 104-1.

[0157] In some embodiments, when sending indication 232, if anchor UE 104-2 enters network coverage within a predefined time window, anchor UE 104-2 sends an indication that its network coverage status has changed to within coverage. In this way, the ping-pong effect can be avoided.

[0158] In some embodiments, anchor UE 104-2 may send auxiliary information to server UE 104-3 for determining 205. The auxiliary information may include mobility information of anchor UE 104-2. Alternatively or additionally, the auxiliary information may include Uu link quality of anchor UE 104-2. Alternatively or additionally, the auxiliary information may include location request-related information, such as QoS requirements for location services for target UE 104-1.

[0159] Figure 2E Example signaling diagrams are shown for a communication procedure 200E supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario, according to some example embodiments of this disclosure. For discussion purposes, procedure 200E will refer to... Figures 1A to 1E Described. Process 200E may involve, for example... Figures 1B to 1E The anchor point UE 104-2 and network device 206-1 are shown. Network device 206-1 can be as follows: Figure 1A The network elements of core network 106 shown. For example, network device 206-1 can be implemented as a location server, such as... Figures 1B to 1E The LMF 106-1 shown is an example. Other types of location servers are also possible. It should be understood that... Figure 2E The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and not for limitation. Similar reference numerals are used to indicate... Figure 2E The description in the middle has the same Figures 2A-2D The steps or components that are the same as those described herein will be omitted, and their specific implementations will be omitted. It should be understood that process 200E may also include additional boxes not shown and / or omit some of the boxes shown, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0160] like Figure 2E As shown, anchor UE 104-2 determines 221 a change in the network coverage state of anchor UE 104-2. Anchor UE 104-2 sends 242 an indication 223 of the change in network coverage state to network device 206-1. Network device 206-1 receives 244 the indication 223 of the change in network coverage state of anchor UE 104-2 from anchor UE 104-2. Network device 206-1 determines 215 whether the positioning operation is network device dependent or network device independent for target UE 104-1.

[0161] In some embodiments, when indication 242 223 is sent, if anchor UE 104-2 enters network coverage within a predefined time window, anchor UE 104-2 sends an indication that its network coverage status has changed to within coverage. In this way, the ping-pong effect can be avoided.

[0162] In some embodiments, anchor UE 104-2 may send auxiliary information to network device 206-1 for determining 215. The auxiliary information may include mobility information of anchor UE 104-2. Alternatively or additionally, the auxiliary information may include Uu link quality of anchor UE 104-2. Alternatively or additionally, the auxiliary information may include location request-related information, such as QoS requirements for location services for target UE 104-1.

[0163] In some embodiments, if the network coverage status of anchor UE 104-2 changes to within coverage, anchor UE 104-2 may send a request to network device 206-1 for a location operation dependent on the network device. For example, network device 206-1 may perform determination 215 based at least on this request.

[0164] In some implementations, the first location operation can be independent of the network device. If network device 206-1 determines that 215 is performing a network device-independent location operation for target UE 104-1, then network device 206-1 can send an indication of the network device-independent location operation to anchor UE 104-2. Anchor UE 104-2 can continue the first location operation after receiving this indication.

[0165] In some embodiments, network device 206-1 may send a request to anchor UE 104-2 for location session-related information associated with a first location operation and / or a request for location request-related information. Anchor UE 104-2 may send location session-related information and / or location request-related information to network device 206-1. For example, the first location operation may be independent of the network device, and network device 206-1 may determine a location operation dependent on the network device when it knows that the network coverage status of anchor UE 104-2 is within coverage. Network device 206-1 may require location session-related information and / or location request-related information to ensure the continuity and performance of the location service.

[0166] In some embodiments, if a location operation dependent on a network device is determined, network device 206-1 can determine whether a location operation dependent on a network device is required for server UE 104-3. If network device 206-1 determines that server UE 104-3 is required, network device 206-1 can send an indication to anchor UE 104-2 of the operation to be performed by server UE 104-3. Anchor UE 104-2 can forward this indication to server UE 104-3. If network device 206-1 determines that server UE is not required, network device 206-1 can send an indication to anchor UE 104-2 of releasing server functions performed by server UE 104-3. Anchor UE 104-2 can forward this indication to server UE 104-3.

[0167] Figure 2F Example signaling diagrams are shown for a communication procedure 200F supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario, according to some example embodiments of this disclosure. For discussion purposes, procedure 200F will refer to... Figures 1A to 1E The process 200F may involve an in-coverage (IC) UE 204 and network device 206-1. Network device 206-1 may be as follows: Figure 1A The network elements of core network 106 shown. For example, network device 206-1 can be implemented as a location server, such as... Figures 1B to 1E The LMF 106-1 shown is an example. Other types of location servers are also possible. It should be understood that... Figure 2F The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and not for limitation. Similar reference numerals are used to indicate... Figure 2F The description in the middle has the same Figures 2A-2D The steps or components that are the same as those described herein will be omitted, and their specific implementations will be omitted. It should be understood that process 200F may also include additional boxes not shown and / or omit some of the boxes shown, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0168] IC UE 204 can be implemented as a UE involved in an IC or PC scenario (e.g., target UE 104-1, anchor UE 104-2, or server UE 104-3), or a relay UE in an OOC scenario. For example, if target UE 104-1 is within geographic coverage area 112, then IC UE 204 can be implemented as target UE 104-1. Alternatively or additionally, IC UE 204 can be implemented as anchor UE 104-2 or server UE 104-3 within geographic coverage area 112. In an OOC scenario, IC UE 204 can be implemented as a relay UE that does not participate in the location operation of target UE 104-2.

[0169] like Figure 2F As shown, IC UE 204 acquires 251 a change in the network coverage state of the UE. The UE is the target UE 104-1, or one of the anchor UEs 104-2 associated with a first positioning operation for the target UE 104-1. IC UE 204 sends 252 an indication 253 of the change in network coverage state to network device 206-1. Network device 206-1 receives 254 the indication 253 of the change in network coverage state from IC UE 204. Network device 206-1 determines 215 whether the positioning operation for the target UE 104-1 is network device dependent or network device independent.

[0170] In some implementations, the anchor UE and the target UE can report changes in their own network coverage status to network device 206-1, respectively. Alternatively, if the target UE 104-1 is within network coverage, then changes in the network coverage status of all involved UEs can be reported to network device 206-1 by the target UE 104-1. Alternatively or additionally, if the target UE 104-1 is outside network coverage, then changes in the network coverage status of all involved UEs can be reported to network device 206-1 by the anchor UE or relay UE within coverage.

[0171] In some embodiments, IC UE 204 may send auxiliary information to network device 206-1 for determining 215. The auxiliary information may include the UE's mobility information. Alternatively or additionally, the auxiliary information may include the UE's Uu link quality. Alternatively or additionally, the auxiliary information may include location request-related information, such as the QoS requirements for location services for the target UE 104-1.

[0172] In some embodiments, IC UE 204 may send a request to network device 206-1 for a location operation that depends on the network device.

[0173] In some implementations, the first location operation can be independent of the network device. If network device 206-1 determines that 215 is performing a network device-independent location operation for target UE 104-1, then network device 206-1 can send an indication of the network device-independent location operation to IC UE 204. The first location operation can then continue.

[0174] In some embodiments, network device 206-1 may send a request to IC UE 204 for location session-related information associated with the first location operation and / or a request for location request-related information. IC UE 204 may send location session-related information and / or location request-related information to network device 206-1.

[0175] In some embodiments, if network device 206-1 can determine whether server UE 104-3 requires location operations dependent on the network device, and if network device 206-1 determines that server UE 104-3 is required, then network device 206-1 can send an instruction to IC UE 204 indicating the operations to be performed by server UE 104-3. IC UE 204 can forward this instruction to server UE 104-3. Server UE 104-3 can then perform these operations, i.e., assume its responsibilities as a server UE. If network device 206-1 determines that server UE is not required, then network device 206-1 can send an instruction to IC UE 204 indicating the release of server functions by server UE 104-3. IC UE 204 can forward this instruction to server UE 104-3. Server UE 104-3 can then release server functions.

[0176] In some embodiments, if a network device-dependent positioning operation is determined, network device 206-1 may determine to perform a network device-dependent positioning operation through at least one anchor UE associated with a first positioning operation of target UE 104-1. Alternatively, if a network device-dependent positioning operation is determined, network device 206-1 may determine to reselect an anchor UE for network device-dependent positioning. Alternatively, if a network device-dependent positioning operation is determined, and target UE 104-1 is within network coverage, network device 206-1 may determine to terminate the sidelink positioning session and start a Uu positioning session or a hybrid Uu and PC5 positioning session.

[0177] In some implementations, the first location operation may be network device dependent. If a network device dependent location operation is determined and the target UE 104-1 is outside network coverage, then network device 206-1 can receive location results or measurement data associated with the target UE 104-1 from IC UE 204.

[0178] In some implementations, if a location operation dependent on a network device is determined and the target UE 104-1 is outside network coverage, network device 206-1 can determine the ICE 204 for communication between the target UE 104-1 and network device 206-1. If the IC UE is not determined, network device 206-1 can abort the location session.

[0179] In some implementations, if the network coverage status of anchor UE 104-2 changes to outside network coverage, network device 206-1 can reselect an anchor UE. In some implementations, if network device 206-1 does not receive a response from anchor UE 104-2 within a time period, network device 206-1 can reselect an anchor UE. In some implementations, if network device 206-1 does not receive a response from anchor UE 104-2 within a time period, network device 206-1 can abort the positioning session.

[0180] In some implementations, the first location operation may be network device dependent, and the network coverage status of the target UE 104-1 may be changed to out of coverage. Network device 206-1 can receive instructions for location operations independent of the network device from IC UE 204.

[0181] In some implementations, the first location operation may be network device dependent, and the network coverage state of the target UE 104-1 may change to out of coverage. Network device 206-1 can receive requests and auxiliary information for network device dependent location operations from IC UE 204. Determination 215 can be performed based on indications of changes in the UE's network coverage state and the auxiliary information. The auxiliary information may include mobility information of the target UE 104-1.

[0182] In some implementations, the first location operation may be network device dependent, and the network coverage status of the target UE 104-1 may be changed to out of coverage. The network device 206-1 may send instructions for location operations and location request-related information independent of the network device to the target UE 104-1 via IC UE 204.

[0183] In some implementations, the first location operation may be network device dependent, and the network coverage status of the target UE 104-1 may change to out-of-coverage. If a network device-independent location operation is determined for the target UE 104-1, then network device 206-1 may determine that server UE 104-3 is required for the network device-independent location operation. Network device 206-1 may send an indication to the target UE 104-1 via IC UE 204 that server UE 104-3 is required. In some embodiments, network device 206-1 may send location request-related information and / or location session-related information associated with the first location operation to the server UE for the network device-independent location operation. Alternatively or additionally, network device 206-1 may send an indication to the server UE for the network device-independent location operation of an operation to be performed by the server UE in the network device-independent location operation.

[0184] In some embodiments, prior to the transmission of indication 223, target UE 104-1 may initially be outside network coverage, and IC UE 204 is a relay UE for communication between target UE 104-1 and network device 206-1. If the network coverage status of target UE 104-1 changes to within coverage, network device 206-1 may send an indication to IC UE 204 to release relay functionality. Subsequent communication between target UE 104-1 and network device 206-1 can then be performed directly.

[0185] Figure 2G Example signaling diagrams of a communication procedure 200G supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario, according to some example embodiments of this disclosure, are shown. For discussion purposes, procedure 200G will refer to... Figures 1A to 1E Described. Process 200G may involve, for example... Figures 1B to 1E The target UE 104-1 and server UE 104-3 are shown. It should be understood that... Figure 2G The steps and their order are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to be limiting. It should be understood that process 200G may also include additional boxes not shown and / or omit some of the boxes shown, and the scope of this disclosure is not limited in this respect.

[0186] like Figure 2G As shown, target UE 104-1 sends 261 location request related information 262 and / or location session related information associated with the first location operation to server UE 104-3. Server UE 104-3 receives 263 location session related information and / or location request related information 262, and performs 264 a second location operation for target UE 104-1 based on the location request related information and / or location session related information.

[0187] In some implementations, the first location operation may be network device dependent. If the network coverage state of the target UE 104-1 can change to out-of-coverage, or if the coverage scenario changes to an OOC scenario, then network device 206-1 or the target UE 104-1 can determine a network device independent location operation for the target UE 104-1. The target UE 104-1 can determine a server UE 104-3 for the network device independent location operation. The target UE 104-1 can send at least one of the following to the server UE 104-3: location request related information, location session related information associated with the first location operation, or an indication of the operation to be performed by the server UE 104-3 in the network device independent location operation.

[0188] In some embodiments, location request-related information and / or location session-related information may be sent in a RequestAssistanceData message. In some embodiments, server UE 104-3 may determine an updated configuration for SL-PRS or an updated measurement configuration for a second location operation based on the location request-related information and / or location session-related information. The second location operation may be performed based on the updated configuration or the updated measurement configuration. When performing the second location operation, server UE 104-3 may receive measurement data associated with target UE 104-1 from anchor UE in a ProvideLocationInformation message. Server UE 104-3 may perform a location calculation for target UE 104-1 based on the measurement data.

[0189] In the preceding text, some embodiments of SL positioning with changes in network coverage scenarios have been described in general terms. In the following text, some implementations of SL positioning with changes in network coverage scenarios will be further described in terms of various specific aspects.

[0190] The first specific aspect is how to design procedures and signaling when the SL positioning coverage scenario changes from OOC to PC. In the initial OOC scenario, only LMF-independent SL positioning operations can be performed. When the target UE or at least one anchor UE enters network coverage, i.e., when the coverage scenario changes to a PC scenario, both LMF-independent and LMF-dependent operations can be performed. The information used to determine LMF-dependent (network-based) operations and LMF-independent (UE-only) operations needs to be specified. If LMF-dependent operations are determined, certain procedures and signaling are required to ensure the continuity of positioning services.

[0191] Now for reference Figure 3AThe illustration shows an example of a wireless communication system whose coverage scenario changes from an OOC scenario to a PC scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure. It should be noted that... Figure 3A The wireless communication system in it can be regarded as Figure 1A A portion of or a specific example of the wireless communication system 100. Similar reference numerals are used to indicate... Figure 3A The description in the middle has the same Figures 1B to 2G Steps or components that are identical to those described herein will be omitted, and their specific implementations will be omitted. It should be understood that although the server UE 104-3 is illustrated as a different device from the target UE 104-1 and the anchor UE 104-2, in some cases, the server UE 104-3 may be implemented by the target UE 104-1 itself or by one of the anchor UEs 104-2.

[0192] like Figure 3A As shown, the initial coverage scenario of wireless communication system 100-4 is an OOC scenario, where target UE 104-1 and anchor UE 104-2 are outside the coverage area. Then, target UE 104-1 moves to geographical coverage area 112, and the coverage scenario changes from an OOC scenario to a PC scenario. It should be understood that... Figure 3A For illustrative purposes only. For example, in some cases, anchor UE 104-2 (instead of target UE 104-1) may be moved to geographic coverage area 112, causing the coverage scenario to change from an OOC scenario to a PC scenario.

[0193] like Figure 3A As shown, in the initial OCC scenario, SL positioning operations independent of LMF can be performed. When at least one of the UEs (e.g., anchor UE 104-2, or such...) Figure 3A When the target UE (104-1) enters network coverage within a predefined time window, it can notify LMF 106-1 or server UE 104-3. Additionally, UEs within network coverage can send necessary information to LMF 106-1 or server UE 104-3, such as UE mobility, Uu link quality (e.g., Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP)), and location service-related information. This information helps LMF 106-1 or server UE 104-3 determine whether to use LMF 106-1 for SL positioning. It should be noted that the predefined time window is used to avoid ping-pong effects.

[0194] In some implementations, after entering network coverage within a predefined time window, the UE can directly notify the LMF106-1. In some examples, when notifying the LMF 106-1 of changes in its coverage status, the UE can include a request for LMF-dependent operations in the message. The LMF 106-1 can determine, based on the received information, whether to initiate an LMF-dependent operation for ongoing location services. If the LMF 106-1 determines an LMF-independent operation, it can send an indication to the UE within network coverage. Then, LMF-independent SL positioning remains unchanged.

[0195] In some implementations, after entering network coverage within a predefined time window, the UE can notify the server UE 104-3 that it now has a Uu connection. The server UE 104-3 can determine whether to request operation dependent on LMF based on information provided by the UE within network coverage and based on QoS requirements, etc.

[0196] If the operation dependent on the LMF is determined by the LMF 106-1 itself or by the server UE 104-3, the LMF 106-1 can request UEs within network coverage to provide location request-related information (e.g., QoS requirements) and location session-related information (e.g., anchor UE information, current SL-PRS configuration, current measurement configuration, current measurement results, session ID, transaction ID, whether reliable transmission is enabled, etc.). The location session-related information can be used by the LMF 106-1 to inform the LMF 106-1 of the current state of the location process.

[0197] In some implementations, after receiving location request-related information and location session-related information from a UE within network coverage, LMF 106-1 can determine whether the server UE is needed and send an indication to the server UE via a UE within network coverage. If the server UE is needed, the indication may include the server UE's responsibilities; or if the server UE is no longer needed, the indication may include a request to release server functions. If server UE 104-3 is within network coverage, LMF 106-1 can directly notify server UE 104-3.

[0198] If an operation dependent on the LMF is determined, LMF 106-1 can determine to continue SL positioning through the existing anchor UE. Alternatively, if an operation dependent on the LMF is determined, LMF 106-1 can determine to reselect the anchor UE for SL positioning. Alternatively, if an operation dependent on the LMF is determined, LMF 106-1 can determine to terminate the SL positioning session and begin a Uu positioning session or a hybrid Uu and PC5 positioning session (only if the target UE 104-1 enters network coverage). Then, LMF-dependent SL positioning, Uu positioning, hybrid Uu and PC5 positioning, or LMF-dependent SL positioning can be performed.

[0199] The second specific aspect concerns how to design the process and signaling when the SL positioning coverage scenario changes from PC to OOC. In the initial PC scenario, operations independent of LMF or dependent on LMF can be performed. In the following description, the case where operations dependent only on LMF are performed in the initial PC scenario is discussed. It should be noted that the principles of this disclosure also apply to the case where operations independent of LMF are performed in the initial PC scenario.

[0200] Additionally, a Mobile Initiated Location Request (MO-LR) or Mobile Termination Location Request (MT-LR) can be initiated in the initial PC scenario. For MO-LR, the LMF may not be required when the SL positioning coverage scenario changes to OOC. In contrast, for MT-LR, at least the positioning result needs to be sent to the LMF. The procedures and signaling for MT-LR and MO-LR scenarios need to be specified separately.

[0201] Now for reference Figure 3B The illustration shows an example of a wireless communication system whose coverage scenario changes from a PC scenario to an OOC scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure. It should be noted that... Figure 3B The wireless communication system in it can be regarded as Figure 1A A portion of or a specific example of the wireless communication system 100. Similar reference numerals are used to indicate... Figure 3B The description in the middle has the same Figures 1B-2G Steps or components that operate the same as those described herein, and their specific implementations will be omitted. Although Figure 3B The server UE is not shown, but it may exist in wireless communication systems in PC and / or OOC scenarios.

[0202] like Figure 3BAs shown, in the initial PC scenario, target UE 104-1 is within network coverage, while anchor UE 104-2 is outside network coverage. In another scenario, the anchor UE can be within network coverage, while target UE 104-1 and the remaining anchor UE 104-2 are outside network coverage. Then, the UEs within network coverage can move out of coverage. In subsequent scenarios, all target UE 104-1 and anchor UE 104-2 are outside network coverage.

[0203] Assume that SL positioning operations independent of LMF are performed in the initial PC scenario. When at least one in-coverage UE (e.g., an in-coverage anchor UE or such) Figure 3B When the target UE 104-1 moves out of network coverage, it can determine the OOC scenario based on the coverage status of the involved UEs. For example, if the anchor UE 104-2 moves out of network coverage, it can notify the target UE 104-1. When the target UE 104-1 moves out of network coverage or receives an indication to leave network coverage from the anchor UE 104-2, the target UE 104-1 can check whether any anchor UEs are currently within coverage. Alternatively, the target UE 104-1 can know the coverage status of other anchor UEs and can directly determine their OOC scenarios.

[0204] If the location request is initiated by the UE, that is, in the case of (SL-)MO-LR, after determining the OOC scenario, the target UE104-1 can discover and select the server UE or itself as the server UE.

[0205] If a single entity is identified as a new server UE, the target UE 104-1 can provide the selected server UE with location request-related information (e.g., QoS requirements), location session-related information (e.g., anchor information, current SL-PRS configuration, measurement configuration, current measurement results, session ID, transaction ID, whether reliable transmission is enabled, etc.), and the server UE's responsibilities (e.g., configuration, calculation, auxiliary data distribution, anchor (re)selection, method determination, etc.).

[0206] In some implementations, the target UE 104-1 may include location request-related information and location session-related information in the RequestAssistanceData message. Upon receiving the RequestAssistanceData message, the selected server UE can provide an updated configuration for subsequent location operations. After receiving the measurement data included in the ProvideLocationInformation message, the server UE can perform location calculations for the target UE 104-1.

[0207] In some embodiments, the target UE 104-1 may indicate information about the selected server UE to the initial anchor UE. The target UE 104-1, the selected server UE, and the initial anchor UE may perform subsequent positioning operations. In some other embodiments, the server UE 104-3 may perform anchor UE reselection.

[0208] If the location request is initiated by the network, i.e., in the case of (SL-)MT-LR, the target UE 104-1 or LMF 106-1 can identify the in-coverage relay UE for communication between the target UE 104-1 and LMF 106-1.

[0209] For example, target UE 104-1 can identify at least one ICSL relay UE that has sent location results to LMF 106-1. If an ICSL relay UE is not found within a time period, target UE 104-1 can terminate the location session. If at least one ICSL relay UE can be found, target UE 104-1 can send location results or measurement data to LMF 106-1 via the ICSL relay UE.

[0210] In another example, the LMF 106-1 can identify an IC SL relay UE that can connect to the target UE 104-1. The LMF 106-1 can communicate with the target UE 104-1 via the selected IC SL relay UE. If no such IC SL relay UE is found, the LMF 106-1 can terminate the location session.

[0211] If no response is received within the time period, either in an alternative location or elsewhere, the LMF 106-1 may terminate the location session.

[0212] The third specific aspect concerns how to design procedures and signaling when the SL positioning coverage scenario changes from IC to PC. In the following description, the case where operations relying solely on the LMF are performed in the initial IC scenario is discussed. It should be noted that the principles of this disclosure also apply to the case where operations independent of the LMF are performed in the initial IC scenario. Due to their mobility, either the anchor UE or the target UE can move out of coverage. If the anchor UE moves out of coverage, it is possible to maintain LMF-dependent operations. If the target UE moves out of coverage, the LMF can determine whether to maintain LMF-dependent operations and whether a server UE is needed. The associated procedures need to be detailed.

[0213] Now for reference Figure 3C The illustration shows an example of a wireless communication system where the coverage scenario changes from an IC scenario to a PC scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure. It should be noted that... Figure 3C The wireless communication system in it can be regarded as Figure 1A A portion of or a specific example of the wireless communication system 100. Similar reference numerals are used to indicate... Figure 3C The description in the middle has the same Figures 1B to 2G Steps or components that operate the same as those described herein, and their specific implementations will be omitted. Although Figure 3C The server UE is not shown, but it may exist in wireless communication systems in IC and / or PC scenarios.

[0214] like Figure 3C As shown, in the initial IC scenario, all target UE 104-1 and anchor UE 104-2 are within network coverage. It is assumed that LMF-dependent SL positioning operations are performed in the initial IC scenario.

[0215] In some embodiments, if at least one anchor UE 104-2 moves out of coverage, the anchor UE 104-2 that moves out of coverage can notify the target UE 104-1. Optionally, the target UE 104-1 can notify the LMF 106-1 of the change in coverage status of the anchor UE 104-2. Based on the indication of the change in coverage status for the anchor UE 104-2, the target UE 104-1 or the LMF 106-1 can decide whether to reselect an anchor UE.

[0216] In some implementations, if a response is not received from at least one anchor UE within a time period, the LMF 106-1 can perform anchor UE reselection or abort the positioning session. If the positioning session is not aborted, SL positioning, which depends on the LMF, can then be performed.

[0217] In some embodiments, when target UE 104-1 moves out of coverage, target UE 104-1 may determine whether to use LMF-independent operation or request LMF-dependent operation. If LMF-independent operation is determined by target UE 104-1, target UE 104-1 may send an indication to LMF 106-1 via one of the IC anchor UEs to notify LMF 106-1 that LMF-independent operation has been determined.

[0218] If the operation dependent on the LMF is determined by the target UE 104-1, the target UE 104-1 can send a request for the LMF-dependent operation, along with some necessary information (such as UE mobility), to the LMF 106-1 via one of the IC anchor UEs. Upon receiving the request for the LMF-dependent operation, the LMF 106-1 can determine whether the operation is LMF-dependent or LMF-independent based on the received information.

[0219] In some embodiments, when target UE 104-1 moves out of coverage, target UE 104-1 may notify LMF 106-1 of its coverage status change via one of the IC anchor UEs. The message from target UE 104-1 to LMF 106-1 may also include necessary information to assist LMF 106-1 in determining the operation, such as UE mobility information. LMF 106-1 may determine whether LMF-dependent or LMF-independent SL positioning operations are used based on location service information (e.g., MO-LR or MT-LR), UE mobility, location service-related information, etc. If LMF 106-1 determines that LMF-independent SL positioning is used, LMF 106-1 may send an indication of LMF-independent SL positioning to target UE 104-1 via an IC anchor UE. This indication may include information related to the positioning request (e.g., QoS requirements).

[0220] In some embodiments, if the operation independent of the LMF is determined by the LMF 106-1 or the target UE 104-1, the target UE 104-1 can discover and select the server UE. In some implementations, the target UE 104-1 can send necessary information to the selected server UE, such as location request-related information, location session-related information, and the server UE's responsibilities. In some other implementations, the target UE 104-1 can act as the server UE itself. Therefore, information transmission does not need to be performed.

[0221] In some embodiments, if the operation dependent on the LMF is determined by either LMF 106-1 or the target UE 104-1, then LMF 106-1 can select a server UE to assist in the positioning operation with the help of the target UE 104-1. Alternatively, if the operation dependent on the LMF is determined by either LMF 106-1 or the target UE 104-1, then LMF 106-1 can act as a server and acquire measurement data via an IC anchor UE.

[0222] The fourth specific aspect concerns how to design the process and signaling when the SL positioning coverage scenario changes from PC to IC. In the following description, the case where operations relying solely on the LMF are performed in the IC scenario is discussed. It should be noted that the principles of this disclosure also apply to the case where operations independent of the LMF are performed in the IC scenario.

[0223] For the initial PC scenario, there are two possible scenarios. In the first scenario, the target UE 104-1 is within coverage, and at least one anchor UE is outside coverage. In the second scenario, the target UE 104-1 is outside coverage, and at least one anchor UE is within coverage. For the first scenario, after at least one OOC anchor UE moves into network coverage, LMF-dependent operations can be performed in both the initial PC scenario and the IC scenario. For the second scenario, LMF-dependent or LMF-independent operations can be performed in the initial PC scenario, and the associated procedures need to be specified separately.

[0224] Now for reference Figure 3D The illustration shows an example of a wireless communication system whose coverage scenario changes from a PC scenario to an IC scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure. It should be noted that... Figure 3D The wireless communication system in it can be regarded as Figure 1A A portion of or a specific example of the wireless communication system 100. Similar reference numerals are used to indicate... Figure 3D The description in the middle has the same Figures 1B to 2G Steps or components that operate the same as those described herein, and their specific implementations will be omitted. Although Figure 3D The server UE is not shown, but it may exist in wireless communication systems in PC and / or IC scenarios.

[0225] like Figure 3D As shown, in the initial PC scenario, target UE 104-1 can be outside network coverage, while anchor UE 104-2 is within network coverage. In another scenario, the anchor UE can be outside network coverage, while target UE 104-1 and the remaining anchor UE 104-2 are within network coverage. Then, the UE outside network coverage can move into network coverage. In subsequent scenarios, all target UE 104-1 and anchor UE 104-2 are within network coverage.

[0226] In some embodiments, it is assumed that in the initial PC scenario, at least one anchor UE is outside coverage, and the target UE 104-1 is within coverage. When moving into network coverage within a predefined time window, the anchor UE 104-2 can notify the target UE 104-1. The predefined time window can help avoid the ping-pong effect. The target UE 104-1 can notify the LMF 106-1 of the coverage status change of the anchor UE that has moved into network coverage. Then, LMF-dependent SL positioning can be performed.

[0227] Alternatively or otherwise, when moving within network coverage within a predefined time window, anchor UE 104-2 can notify LMF 106-1 of its coverage status change. SL positioning, then dependent on the LMF, can then be performed.

[0228] In some embodiments, it is assumed that during the initial PC scenario, target UE 104-1 is outside coverage, at least one anchor UE 104-2 is within coverage, and LMF-dependent SL positioning is performed. In some implementations, target UE 104-1 may notify LMF 106-1 when moving into network coverage within a predefined time window. Target UE 104-1 and / or LMF 106-1 may notify the relay (anchor) UE that relay functionality has been released.

[0229] In some embodiments, it is assumed that during the initial PC scenario, target UE 104-1 is outside coverage, at least one anchor UE 104-2 is within coverage, and SL positioning is performed independently of the LMF. When target UE 104-1 enters network coverage within a predefined time window, target UE 104-1 can notify LMF 106-1 or the server UE about its coverage status change. Additionally, target UE 104-1 can send necessary information to LMF 106-1 or the server UE, such as UE mobility, Uu link quality (e.g., RSRP), and location service-related information.

[0230] In some implementations, after entering network coverage within a predefined time window, target UE 104-1 can directly notify LMF 106-1. In some examples, when notifying LMF 106-1 of changes in its coverage status, target UE 104-1 can include a request for LMF-dependent operations in the message. LMF 106-1 can determine, based on information received from target UE 104-1, whether to initiate LMF-dependent operations for ongoing location services. If LMF 106-1 determines not to use itself for ongoing SL positioning, it can send an indication to the UE within network coverage. LMF-independent SL positioning then remains unchanged.

[0231] In some implementations, if a server UE is present in the initial PC scenario, the target UE 104-1 can notify the server UE after entering network coverage within a predefined time window. The server UE can then determine whether to request operations dependent on LMF based on information provided by UEs within network coverage and on QoS requirements, etc.

[0232] If SL positioning, independent of LMF, is performed during the initial PC scenario, and the LMF-dependent operation is determined by LMF106-1 itself or by the server UE, then LMF 106-1 may request the target UE 104-1, which has entered the network coverage area, to provide positioning request-related information and current positioning session-related information.

[0233] In some implementations, LMF 106-1 can determine whether a server UE is needed. If the server is not needed, LMF 106-1 can notify the server UE (if the server UE exists in the initial PC scenario) that the server function is no longer required. If the server UE is needed, LMF 106-1 can notify the server UE about its responsibilities.

[0234] In some implementations, LMF 106-1 can determine to continue SL positioning with the existing anchor UE. Alternatively, LMF 106-1 can determine to reselect the anchor UE for SL positioning. Alternatively, LMF 106-1 can determine to abort SL positioning and begin Uu positioning / hybrid Uu and PC5 positioning.

[0235] Figure 4 An example of a device 400 supporting SL positioning with changes in coverage scenarios according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated. Device 400 may be an example of a first UE 104-1 as described herein. Device 400 may support wireless communication with one or more network entities 102, UE 104, core network 106, or any combination thereof. Device 400 may include components for bidirectional communication, including components for transmitting and receiving communications, such as processor 402, memory 404, transceiver 406, and optional I / O controller 408. These components may communicate electronically or be otherwise coupled (e.g., operational ground, communication ground, functional ground, electronic ground, electrical ground) via one or more interfaces (e.g., bus).

[0236] Processor 402, memory 404, transceiver 406, or various combinations thereof or various components thereof may be examples of components used to perform the various aspects of this disclosure described herein. For example, processor 402, memory 404, transceiver 406, or various combinations thereof or components thereof may support methods for performing one or more of the operations described herein.

[0237] In some implementations, processor 402, memory 404, transceiver 406, or various combinations thereof, or components thereof, may be implemented in hardware (e.g., in a communication management circuitry system). The hardware may include a processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof, configured to or otherwise supporting components for performing the functions described in this disclosure. In some implementations, processor 402 and memory 404 coupled to processor 402 may be configured to perform one or more of the functions described herein (e.g., instructions stored in memory 404 are executed by processor 402).

[0238] For example, according to the examples disclosed herein, processor 402 may support wireless communication at device 400. Processor 402 may be configured to operate to support components for: acquiring a change in the network coverage state of a UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; and sending an indication of the change in the network coverage state of the UE to a third UE associated with the first positioning operation or to a network device.

[0239] Processor 402 may include intelligent hardware devices (e.g., general-purpose processors, DSPs, CPUs, microcontrollers, ASICs, FPGAs, programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic components, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof). In some implementations, processor 402 may be configured to use a memory controller to operate a memory array. In some other implementations, the memory controller may be integrated into processor 402. Processor 402 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in memory (e.g., memory 404) to cause device 400 to perform various functions of this disclosure.

[0240] Memory 404 may include random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM). Memory 404 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code, including instructions that, when executed by processor 402, cause device 400 to perform the various functions described herein. The code may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as system memory or another type of memory. In some implementations, the code may not be directly executed by processor 402, but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform the functions described herein. In some implementations, memory 404 may include a basic I / O system (BIOS) that controls basic hardware or software operations, such as interaction with peripheral components or devices.

[0241] I / O controller 408 can manage input and output signals for device 400. I / O controller 408 can also manage peripheral devices not integrated into device M02. In some implementations, I / O controller 408 can represent a physical connection or port to an external peripheral device. In some implementations, I / O controller 408 can utilize an operating system such as iOS®, Android®, MS Windows®, OS / 2®, UNIX®, LINUX®, or another known operating system. In some implementations, I / O controller 408 can be implemented as part of a processor (such as processor 406). In some implementations, a user can interact with device 400 via I / O controller 408 or via hardware components controlled by I / O controller 408.

[0242] In some implementations, device 400 may include a single antenna 410. However, in other implementations, device 400 may have more than one antenna 410 (i.e., multiple antennas), including multiple antenna planes or antenna arrays capable of concurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wireless transmissions. Transceiver 406 may communicate bidirectionally via one or more antennas 410, wired or wireless links as described herein. For example, transceiver 406 may represent a wireless transceiver and may communicate bidirectionally with another wireless transceiver. Transceiver 406 may also include a modem for modulating packets to provide modulated packets to one or more antennas 410 for transmission, and for demodulating packets received from one or more antennas 410. Transceiver 406 may include one or more transmit chains, one or more receive chains, or combinations thereof.

[0243] The transmission chain can be configured to generate and transmit signals (e.g., control information, data, packets). The transmission chain may include at least one modulator for modulating data onto a carrier signal, preparing it for transmission over a wireless medium. The at least one modulator may be configured to support one or more techniques, such as amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), or digital modulation schemes (e.g., phase-shifted modulation (PSK) or quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM)). The transmission chain may also include at least one power amplifier configured to amplify the modulated signal to an appropriate power level suitable for transmission over a wireless medium. The transmission chain may also include one or more antennas 410 for transmitting the amplified signal into the air or wireless medium.

[0244] A receiver chain can be configured to receive signals (e.g., control information, data, packets) over a wireless medium. For example, the receiver chain may include one or more antennas 410 for receiving signals over the air or a wireless medium. The receiver chain may include at least one amplifier (e.g., a low-noise amplifier (LNA)) configured to amplify the received signal. The receiver chain may include at least one demodulator configured to demodulate the received signal and acquire transmitted data by reversing the modulation technique applied during signal transmission. The receiver chain may include at least one decoder for decoding the demodulated signal to receive the transmitted data.

[0245] Figure 5 An example of a device 500 supporting SL positioning with changes in coverage scenarios according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated. Device 500 may be an example of a second UE 104-2 as described herein. Device 500 may support wireless communication with one or more network entities 102, UE 104, core network 106, or any combination thereof. Device 500 may include components for bidirectional communication, including components for transmitting and receiving communications, such as processor 502, memory 504, transceiver 506, and optional I / O controller 508. These components may communicate electronically or be otherwise coupled (e.g., operational ground, communication ground, functional ground, electronic ground, electrical ground) via one or more interfaces (e.g., bus).

[0246] Processor 502, memory 504, transceiver 506, or various combinations thereof or various components thereof may be examples of components used to perform the various aspects of this disclosure described herein. For example, processor 502, memory 504, transceiver 506, or various combinations thereof or components thereof may support methods for performing one or more of the operations described herein.

[0247] In some implementations, processor 502, memory 504, transceiver 506, or various combinations thereof, or components thereof, may be implemented in hardware (e.g., in a communication management circuitry system). The hardware may include a processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof, configured to or otherwise supporting components for performing the functions described in this disclosure. In some implementations, processor 502 and memory 504 coupled to processor 502 may be configured to perform one or more of the functions described herein (e.g., instructions stored in memory 504 are executed by processor 502).

[0248] For example, according to the examples disclosed herein, processor 502 may support wireless communication at device 500. Processor 502 may be configured to operate to support components for: determining a change in the network coverage state of a second UE; and sending an indication of the change in network coverage state to one of: a first UE, a third UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or a network device.

[0249] Processor 502 may include intelligent hardware devices (e.g., general-purpose processors, DSPs, CPUs, microcontrollers, ASICs, FPGAs, programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic components, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof). In some implementations, processor 502 may be configured to use a memory controller to operate a memory array. In some other implementations, the memory controller may be integrated into processor 502. Processor 502 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in memory (e.g., memory 504) to cause device 500 to perform various functions of this disclosure.

[0250] Memory 504 may include random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM). Memory 504 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code, including instructions that, when executed by processor 502, cause device 500 to perform the various functions described herein. The code may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as system memory or another type of memory. In some implementations, the code may not be directly executed by processor 502, but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform the functions described herein. In some implementations, memory 504 may include a basic I / O system (BIOS) that controls basic hardware or software operations, such as interaction with peripheral components or devices.

[0251] I / O controller 508 can manage input and output signals for device 500. I / O controller 508 can also manage peripheral devices not integrated into device M02. In some implementations, I / O controller 508 can represent a physical connection or port to an external peripheral device. In some implementations, I / O controller 508 can utilize an operating system such as iOS®, ANDROID®, MS WINDOWS®, OS / 2®, UNIX®, LINUX®, or another known operating system. In some implementations, I / O controller 508 can be implemented as part of a processor (such as processor 506). In some implementations, a user can interact with device 500 via I / O controller 508 or via hardware components controlled by I / O controller 508.

[0252] In some implementations, device 500 may include a single antenna 510. However, in other implementations, device 500 may have more than one antenna 510 (i.e., multiple antennas), including multiple antenna planes or antenna arrays capable of concurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wireless transmissions. Transceiver 506 may communicate bidirectionally via one or more antennas 510, wired or wireless links as described herein. For example, transceiver 506 may represent a wireless transceiver and may communicate bidirectionally with another wireless transceiver. Transceiver 506 may also include a modem for modulating packets to provide modulated packets to one or more antennas 510 for transmission, and for demodulating packets received from one or more antennas 510. Transceiver 506 may include one or more transmit chains, one or more receive chains, or combinations thereof.

[0253] The transmission chain can be configured to generate and transmit signals (e.g., control information, data, packets). The transmission chain may include at least one modulator for modulating data onto a carrier signal, preparing it for transmission over a wireless medium. At least one modulator may be configured to support one or more techniques, such as amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), or digital modulation schemes (e.g., phase-shifted modulation (PSK) or quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM)). The transmission chain may also include at least one power amplifier configured to amplify the modulated signal to an appropriate power level suitable for transmission over a wireless medium. The transmission chain may also include one or more antennas 510 for transmitting the amplified signal into the air or wireless medium.

[0254] A receiver chain can be configured to receive signals (e.g., control information, data, packets) over a wireless medium. For example, the receiver chain may include one or more antennas 510 for receiving signals over the air or a wireless medium. The receiver chain may include at least one amplifier (e.g., a low-noise amplifier (LNA)) configured to amplify the received signal. The receiver chain may include at least one demodulator configured to demodulate the received signal and acquire transmitted data by reversing the modulation technique applied during signal transmission. The receiver chain may include at least one decoder for decoding the demodulated signal to receive the transmitted data.

[0255] Figure 6An example of a device 600 supporting SL positioning with changes in coverage scenarios according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated. Device 600 may be an example of a third UE 104-3 as described herein. Device 600 may support wireless communication with one or more network entities 102, UE 104, core network 106, or any combination thereof. Device 600 may include components for bidirectional communication, including components for transmitting and receiving communications, such as processor 602, memory 604, transceiver 606, and optional I / O controller 608. These components may communicate electronically or be otherwise coupled (e.g., operational ground, communication ground, functional ground, electronic ground, electrical ground) via one or more interfaces (e.g., bus).

[0256] Processor 602, memory 604, transceiver 606, or various combinations thereof or various components thereof may be examples of components used to perform the various aspects of this disclosure described herein. For example, processor 602, memory 604, transceiver 606, or various combinations thereof or components thereof may support methods for performing one or more of the operations described herein.

[0257] In some implementations, processor 602, memory 604, transceiver 606, or various combinations thereof, or components thereof, may be implemented in hardware (e.g., in a communication management circuitry system). The hardware may include a processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof, configured to or otherwise supporting components for performing the functions described in this disclosure. In some implementations, processor 602 and memory 604 coupled to processor 602 may be configured to perform one or more of the functions described herein (e.g., instructions stored in memory 604 are executed by processor 602).

[0258] For example, according to the examples disclosed herein, processor 602 may support wireless communication at device 600. Processor 602 may be configured to support components for: receiving one of the following: an indication of a change in the network coverage state of a UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or one of at least a second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or positioning session-related information associated with the first positioning operation, or positioning request-related information; and, upon receiving the indication of a change in the network coverage state of the UE, determining a network device-dependent positioning operation or a network device-independent positioning operation for the first UE; or, upon receiving the positioning request-related information or the positioning session-related information, performing a second positioning operation for the first UE based on the positioning request-related information or the positioning session-related information.

[0259] Processor 602 may include intelligent hardware devices (e.g., general-purpose processors, DSPs, CPUs, microcontrollers, ASICs, FPGAs, programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic components, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof). In some implementations, processor 602 may be configured to use a memory controller to operate a memory array. In some other implementations, the memory controller may be integrated into processor 602. Processor 602 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in memory (e.g., memory 604) to cause device 600 to perform various functions of this disclosure.

[0260] Memory 604 may include random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM). Memory 604 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code, including instructions that, when executed by processor 602, cause device 600 to perform the various functions described herein. The code may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as system memory or another type of memory. In some implementations, the code may not be directly executed by processor 602, but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform the functions described herein. In some implementations, memory 604 may include a basic I / O system (BIOS) that controls basic hardware or software operations, such as interaction with peripheral components or devices.

[0261] I / O controller 608 can manage input and output signals for device 600. I / O controller 608 can also manage peripheral devices not integrated into device M02. In some implementations, I / O controller 608 can represent a physical connection or port to an external peripheral device. In some implementations, I / O controller 608 can utilize an operating system such as iOS®, ANDROID®, MS WINDOWS®, OS / 2®, UNIX®, LINUX®, or another known operating system. In some implementations, I / O controller 608 can be implemented as part of a processor (such as processor 606). In some implementations, a user can interact with device 600 via I / O controller 608 or via hardware components controlled by I / O controller 608.

[0262] In some implementations, device 600 may include a single antenna 610. However, in other implementations, device 600 may have more than one antenna 610 (i.e., multiple antennas), including multiple antenna planes or antenna arrays capable of concurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wireless transmissions. Transceiver 606 may communicate bidirectionally via one or more antennas 610, wired or wireless links as described herein. For example, transceiver 606 may represent a wireless transceiver and may communicate bidirectionally with another wireless transceiver. Transceiver 606 may also include a modem for modulating packets to provide modulated packets to one or more antennas 610 for transmission, and for demodulating packets received from one or more antennas 610. Transceiver 606 may include one or more transmit chains, one or more receive chains, or combinations thereof.

[0263] The transmission chain can be configured to generate and transmit signals (e.g., control information, data, packets). The transmission chain may include at least one modulator for modulating data onto a carrier signal, preparing it for transmission over a wireless medium. The at least one modulator may be configured to support one or more techniques, such as amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), or digital modulation schemes (e.g., phase-shifted modulation (PSK) or quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM)). The transmission chain may also include at least one power amplifier configured to amplify the modulated signal to an appropriate power level suitable for transmission over a wireless medium. The transmission chain may also include one or more antennas 610 for transmitting the amplified signal into the air or wireless medium.

[0264] A receiver chain can be configured to receive signals (e.g., control information, data, packets) over a wireless medium. For example, the receiver chain may include one or more antennas 610 for receiving signals over the air or a wireless medium. The receiver chain may include at least one amplifier (e.g., a low-noise amplifier (LNA)) configured to amplify the received signal. The receiver chain may include at least one demodulator configured to demodulate the received signal and acquire transmitted data by reversing the modulation technique applied during signal transmission. The receiver chain may include at least one decoder for decoding the demodulated signal to receive the transmitted data.

[0265] Figure 7 An example of a device 700 supporting SL positioning with changes in coverage scenarios according to various aspects of this disclosure is illustrated. Device 700 may be an example of network device 206-1 or LMF 106-1 as described herein. Device 700 may support wireless communication with one or more network entities 102, UE 104, core network 106, or any combination thereof. Device 700 may include components for bidirectional communication, including components for transmitting and receiving communications, such as processor 702, memory 704, transceiver 706, and optional I / O controller 708. These components may communicate electronically or be otherwise coupled (e.g., operational ground, communication ground, functional ground, electronic ground, electrical ground) via one or more interfaces (e.g., bus).

[0266] Processor 702, memory 704, transceiver 706, or various combinations thereof or various components thereof may be examples of components used to perform the various aspects of this disclosure described herein. For example, processor 702, memory 704, transceiver 706, or various combinations thereof or components thereof may support methods for performing one or more of the operations described herein.

[0267] In some implementations, processor 702, memory 704, transceiver 706, or various combinations thereof, or components thereof, may be implemented in hardware (e.g., in a communication management circuitry system). The hardware may include a processor, digital signal processor (DSP), application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field-programmable gate array (FPGA) or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof, configured to or otherwise supporting components for performing the functions described in this disclosure. In some implementations, processor 702 and memory 704 coupled to processor 702 may be configured to perform one or more of the functions described herein (e.g., instructions stored in memory 704 are executed by processor 702).

[0268] For example, according to the examples disclosed herein, processor 702 may support wireless communication at device 700. Processor 702 may be configured to operate to support components for: receiving an indication of a change in the network coverage state of a user equipment (UE) within coverage, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; and determining a network device-dependent positioning operation or a network device-independent positioning operation for the first UE.

[0269] Processor 702 may include intelligent hardware devices (e.g., general-purpose processors, DSPs, CPUs, microcontrollers, ASICs, FPGAs, programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic components, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof). In some implementations, processor 702 may be configured to use a memory controller to operate a memory array. In some other implementations, the memory controller may be integrated into processor 702. Processor 702 may be configured to execute computer-readable instructions stored in memory (e.g., memory 704) to cause device 700 to perform various functions of this disclosure.

[0270] Memory 704 may include random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM). Memory 704 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code, including instructions that, when executed by processor 702, cause device 700 to perform the various functions described herein. The code may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as system memory or another type of memory. In some implementations, the code may not be directly executed by processor 702, but may cause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform the functions described herein. In some implementations, memory 704 may include a basic I / O system (BIOS) that controls basic hardware or software operations, such as interaction with peripheral components or devices.

[0271] I / O controller 708 can manage input and output signals for device 700. I / O controller 708 can also manage peripheral devices not integrated into device M02. In some implementations, I / O controller 708 can represent a physical connection or port to an external peripheral device. In some implementations, I / O controller 708 can utilize an operating system such as iOS®, ANDROID®, MS WINDOWS®, OS / 2®, UNIX®, LINUX®, or another known operating system. In some implementations, I / O controller 708 can be implemented as part of a processor (such as processor 606). In some implementations, a user can interact with device 700 via I / O controller 708 or via hardware components controlled by I / O controller 708.

[0272] In some implementations, device 700 may include a single antenna 710. However, in other implementations, device 700 may have more than one antenna 710 (i.e., multiple antennas), including multiple antenna planes or antenna arrays capable of concurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wireless transmissions. Transceiver 706 may communicate bidirectionally via one or more antennas 710, wired or wireless links as described herein. For example, transceiver 706 may represent a wireless transceiver and may communicate bidirectionally with another wireless transceiver. Transceiver 706 may also include a modem for modulating packets to provide modulated packets to one or more antennas 710 for transmission, and for demodulating packets received from one or more antennas 710. Transceiver 706 may include one or more transmit chains, one or more receive chains, or combinations thereof.

[0273] The transmission chain can be configured to generate and transmit signals (e.g., control information, data, packets). The transmission chain may include at least one modulator for modulating data onto a carrier signal, preparing it for transmission over a wireless medium. At least one modulator may be configured to support one or more techniques, such as amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), or digital modulation schemes (e.g., phase-shifted modulation (PSK) or quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM)). The transmission chain may also include at least one power amplifier configured to apply an appropriate power level to the modulated signal for transmission over the wireless medium. The transmission chain may also include one or more antennas 710 for transmitting the amplified signal into the air or wireless medium.

[0274] A receiver chain can be configured to receive signals (e.g., control information, data, packets) over a wireless medium. For example, the receiver chain may include one or more antennas 710 for receiving signals over the air or a wireless medium. The receiver chain may include at least one amplifier (e.g., a low-noise amplifier (LNA)) configured to amplify the received signal. The receiver chain may include at least one demodulator configured to demodulate the received signal and acquire transmitted data by reversing the modulation technique applied during signal transmission. The receiver chain may include at least one decoder for decoding the demodulated signal to receive the transmitted data.

[0275] Figure 8An example of a processor 800 supporting SL positioning with changes in a covered scenario is illustrated according to various aspects of this disclosure. Processor 800 may be an example of a processor configured to perform various operations according to the examples described herein. Processor 800 may include a controller 802 configured to perform various operations according to the examples described herein. Processor 800 may optionally include at least one memory 804, such as an L1 / L2 / L3 cache. Additionally or alternatively, processor 800 may optionally include one or more arithmetic logic units (ALUs) 800. One or more of these components may be electronically communicated or otherwise coupled (e.g., operative ground, communicative ground, functional ground, electronic ground, electrical ground) via one or more interfaces (e.g., buses).

[0276] Processor 800 may be a processor chipset and includes a protocol stack (e.g., a software stack) executed by the processor chipset to perform various operations (e.g., receive, acquire, retrieve, send, output, forward, store, determine, identify, access, write, read) according to the examples described herein. The processor chipset may include one or more cores, one or more caches (e.g., memory local to the processor chipset (e.g., processor 800) or included in the processor chipset) or other memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), static RAM (SRAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM), magnetic RAM (MRAM), resistive RAM (RRAM), flash memory, phase-change memory (PCM), etc.).

[0277] Controller 802 can be configured to manage and coordinate various operations of processor 800 (e.g., signaling, receiving, acquiring, retrieving, transmitting, outputting, forwarding, storing, determining, identifying, accessing, writing, and reading) to enable processor 800 to support various operations of the first UE 104-1 according to the example described herein. For example, controller 802 can operate as a control unit of processor 800, generating control signals that manage the operation of various components of processor 800. These control signals include enabling or disabling functional units, selecting data paths, initiating memory accesses, and coordinating operation timing.

[0278] Controller 802 can be configured to fetch (e.g., fetch, retrieve, receive) instructions from memory 804 and determine subsequent instructions(s) to be executed, enabling processor 800 to support various operations according to the examples described herein. Controller 802 can be configured to track the memory addresses of instructions associated with memory 804. Controller 802 can be configured to decode instructions to determine the operations to be performed and the operands involved. For example, controller 802 can be configured to interpret instructions and determine control signals to be output to other components of processor 800, enabling processor 800 to support various operations according to the examples described herein. Additionally or alternatively, controller 802 can be configured to manage data flow within processor 800. Controller 802 can be configured to control data transfers between registers, arithmetic logic unit (ALU), and other functional units of processor 800.

[0279] Memory 804 may include one or more caches (e.g., memory native to or included in processor 800) or other memories such as RAM, ROM, DRAM, SDRAM, SRAM, MRAM, flash memory, etc. In some implementations, memory 804 may reside within or on the processor chipset (e.g., native to processor 800). In some other implementations, memory 804 may reside outside the processor chipset (e.g., remote from processor 800).

[0280] Memory 804 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code, including instructions that, when executed by processor 800, cause processor 800 to perform the various functions described herein. The code may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as system memory or another type of memory. Controller 802 and / or processor 800 may be configured to execute the computer-readable instructions stored in memory 804 to cause processor 800 to perform various functions. For example, processor 800 and / or controller 802 may be coupled to or coupled to memory 804, and processor 800, controller 802, and memory 804 may be configured to perform the various functions described herein. In some examples, processor 800 may include multiple processors, and memory 804 may include multiple memories. One or more of the multiple processors may be coupled to one or more of the multiple memories, which may be configured individually or collectively to perform the various functions described herein.

[0281] One or more ALU 800s can be configured to support various operations according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, one or more ALU 800s may reside within or on a processor chipset (e.g., processor 800). In some other implementations, one or more ALU 800s may reside outside the processor chipset (e.g., processor 800). One or more ALU 800s can perform one or more computations, such as performing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division on data. For example, one or more ALU 800s can receive input operands and an opcode that determines the operation to be performed. One or more ALU 800s are configured with various logic and arithmetic circuitry, including adders, subtractors, shifters, and logic gates, to process and manipulate data according to the operation. Additionally or alternatively, one or more ALU 800s may support logical operations such as AND, OR, XOR, NOR, and NAND, enabling one or more ALU 800s to handle conditional operations, comparisons, and bitwise operations.

[0282] Processor 800 may support wireless communication according to the examples disclosed herein. Processor 800 may be configured or operable to support components for: acquiring a change in the network coverage state of a UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; and sending an indication of the change in the network coverage state of the UE to a third UE associated with the first positioning operation or to a network device.

[0283] Figure 9 An example of a processor 900 supporting SL positioning with changes in a covered scenario is illustrated according to various aspects of this disclosure. Processor 900 may be an example of a processor configured to perform various operations according to the examples described herein. Processor 900 may include a controller 902 configured to perform various operations according to the examples described herein. Processor 900 may optionally include at least one memory 904, such as an L1 / L2 / L3 cache. Additionally or alternatively, processor 900 may optionally include one or more arithmetic logic units (ALUs) 900. One or more of these components may be electronically communicated or otherwise coupled (e.g., operative ground, communicative ground, functional ground, electronic ground, electrical ground) via one or more interfaces (e.g., buses).

[0284] Processor 900 may be a processor chipset and includes a protocol stack (e.g., a software stack) executed by the processor chipset to perform various operations (e.g., receive, acquire, retrieve, send, output, forward, store, determine, identify, access, write, read) according to the examples described herein. The processor chipset may include one or more cores, one or more caches (e.g., memory local to the processor chipset (e.g., processor 900) or included in the processor chipset) or other memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), static RAM (SRAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM), magnetic RAM (MRAM), resistive RAM (RRAM), flash memory, phase-change memory (PCM), etc.).

[0285] Controller 902 can be configured to manage and coordinate various operations of processor 900 (e.g., signaling, receiving, acquiring, retrieving, transmitting, outputting, forwarding, storing, determining, identifying, accessing, writing, and reading) to enable processor 900 to support various operations of the second UE 104-2 according to the examples described herein. For example, controller 902 can operate as a control unit of processor 900, generating control signals that manage the operation of various components of processor 900. These control signals include enabling or disabling functional units, selecting data paths, initiating memory accesses, and coordinating operation timing.

[0286] Controller 902 can be configured to fetch (e.g., fetch, retrieve, receive) instructions from memory 904 and determine subsequent instructions(s) to be executed, enabling processor 900 to support various operations according to the examples described herein. Controller 902 can be configured to track the memory addresses of instructions associated with memory 904. Controller 902 can be configured to decode instructions to determine the operations to be performed and the operands involved. For example, controller 902 can be configured to interpret instructions and determine control signals to be output to other components of processor 900, enabling processor 900 to support various operations according to the examples described herein. Additionally or alternatively, controller 902 can be configured to manage data flow within processor 900. Controller 902 can be configured to control data transfers between registers, arithmetic logic unit (ALU), and other functional units of processor 900.

[0287] Memory 904 may include one or more caches (e.g., memory native to or included in processor 900) or other memories such as RAM, ROM, DRAM, SDRAM, SRAM, MRAM, flash memory, etc. In some implementations, memory 904 may reside within or on the processor chipset (e.g., native to processor 900). In some other implementations, memory 904 may reside outside the processor chipset (e.g., remote from processor 900).

[0288] Memory 904 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code, including instructions that, when executed by processor 900, cause processor 900 to perform the various functions described herein. The code may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as system memory or another type of memory. Controller 902 and / or processor 900 may be configured to execute the computer-readable instructions stored in memory 904 to cause processor 900 to perform various functions. For example, processor 900 and / or controller 902 may be coupled to or coupled to memory 904, and processor 900, controller 902, and memory 904 may be configured to perform the various functions described herein. In some examples, processor 900 may include multiple processors, and memory 904 may include multiple memories. One or more of the multiple processors may be coupled to one or more of the multiple memories, which may be configured individually or collectively to perform the various functions described herein.

[0289] One or more ALU 900s can be configured to support various operations according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, one or more ALU 900s may reside within or on a processor chipset (e.g., processor 900). In some other implementations, one or more ALU 900s may reside outside the processor chipset (e.g., processor 900). One or more ALU 900s can perform one or more computations, such as performing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division on data. For example, one or more ALU 900s can receive input operands and an opcode that determines the operation to be performed. One or more ALU 900s are configured with various logic and arithmetic circuitry, including adders, subtractors, shifters, and logic gates, to process and manipulate data according to the operation. Additionally or alternatively, one or more ALU 900s may support logical operations such as AND, OR, XOR, NOR, and NAND, enabling one or more ALU 900s to handle conditional operations, comparisons, and bitwise operations.

[0290] Processor 900 may support wireless communication according to the examples disclosed herein. Processor 900 may be configured or operable to support components for: determining a change in the network coverage state of a second UE; and sending an indication of the change in network coverage state to one of: a first UE, a third UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or a network device.

[0291] Figure 10 An example of a processor 1000 supporting SL positioning with changes in a covered scenario is illustrated according to various aspects of this disclosure. The processor 1000 may be an example of a processor configured to perform various operations according to the examples described herein. The processor 1000 may include a controller 1002 configured to perform various operations according to the examples described herein. The processor 1000 may optionally include at least one memory 1004, such as an L1 / L2 / L3 cache. Additionally or alternatively, the processor 1000 may optionally include one or more arithmetic logic units (ALUs) 1000. One or more of these components may be electronically communicated or otherwise coupled (e.g., operative ground, communicative ground, functional ground, electronic ground, electrical ground) via one or more interfaces (e.g., buses).

[0292] Processor 1000 may be a processor chipset and includes a protocol stack (e.g., a software stack) executed by the processor chipset to perform various operations (e.g., receive, acquire, retrieve, send, output, forward, store, determine, identify, access, write, read) according to the examples described herein. The processor chipset may include one or more cores, one or more caches (e.g., memory local to the processor chipset (e.g., processor 1000) or included in the processor chipset) or other memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), static RAM (SRAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM), magnetic RAM (MRAM), resistive RAM (RRAM), flash memory, phase-change memory (PCM), etc.).

[0293] Controller 1002 can be configured to manage and coordinate various operations of processor 1000 (e.g., signaling, receiving, acquiring, retrieving, transmitting, outputting, forwarding, storing, determining, identifying, accessing, writing, and reading) to enable processor 1000 to support various operations of the third UE 104-3 according to the examples described herein. For example, controller 1002 can operate as a control unit of processor 1000, generating control signals that manage the operation of various components of processor 1000. These control signals include enabling or disabling functional units, selecting data paths, initiating memory accesses, and coordinating operation timing.

[0294] Controller 1002 may be configured to fetch (e.g., fetch, retrieve, receive) instructions from memory 1004 and determine subsequent instructions(s) to be executed, enabling processor 1000 to support various operations according to the examples described herein. Controller 1002 may be configured to track the memory addresses of instructions associated with memory 1004. Controller 1002 may be configured to decode instructions to determine the operations to be performed and the operands involved. For example, controller 1002 may be configured to interpret instructions and determine control signals to be output to other components of processor 1000, enabling processor 1000 to support various operations according to the examples described herein. Additionally or alternatively, controller 1002 may be configured to manage data flow within processor 1000. Controller 1002 may be configured to control data transfers between registers, arithmetic logic unit (ALU), and other functional units of processor 1000.

[0295] Memory 1004 may include one or more caches (e.g., memory local to or included in processor 1000) or other memories such as RAM, ROM, DRAM, SDRAM, SRAM, MRAM, flash memory, etc. In some implementations, memory 1004 may reside within or on the processor chipset (e.g., locally to processor 1000). In some other implementations, memory 1004 may reside outside the processor chipset (e.g., remotely from processor 1000).

[0296] Memory 1004 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code, including instructions that, when executed by processor 1000, cause processor 1000 to perform the various functions described herein. The code may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as system memory or another type of memory. Controller 1002 and / or processor 1000 may be configured to execute the computer-readable instructions stored in memory 1004 to cause processor 1000 to perform various functions. For example, processor 1000 and / or controller 1002 may be coupled to or coupled to memory 1004, and processor 1000, controller 1002, and memory 1004 may be configured to perform the various functions described herein. In some examples, processor 1000 may include multiple processors, and memory 1004 may include multiple memories. One or more of the multiple processors may be coupled to one or more of the multiple memories, which may be configured individually or collectively to perform the various functions described herein.

[0297] One or more ALU 1000s can be configured to support various operations according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, one or more ALU 1000s may reside within or on a processor chipset (e.g., processor 1000). In some other implementations, one or more ALU 1000s may reside outside the processor chipset (e.g., processor 1000). One or more ALU 1000s can perform one or more computations, such as performing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division on data. For example, one or more ALU 1000s can receive input operands and an opcode that determines the operation to be performed. One or more ALU 1000s are configured with various logic and arithmetic circuitry, including adders, subtractors, shifters, and logic gates, to process and manipulate data according to the operations. Alternatively or concurrently, one or more ALU 1000s may support logical operations such as AND, OR, XOR, NOR, and NAND, enabling one or more ALU 1000s to handle conditional operations, comparisons, and bitwise operations.

[0298] The processor 1000 may support wireless communication according to the examples disclosed herein. The processor 1000 may be configured or operable to support components for: receiving one of the following: an indication of a change in the network coverage state of a UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or one of at least a second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or positioning session-related information associated with the first positioning operation, or positioning request-related information; and, upon receiving the indication of a change in the network coverage state of the UE, determining a network device-dependent or network device-independent positioning operation for the first UE; or, upon receiving the positioning request-related information or positioning session-related information, performing a second positioning operation for the first UE based on the positioning request-related information or positioning session-related information.

[0299] Figure 11 An example of a processor 1100 supporting SL positioning with changes in a covered scenario is illustrated according to various aspects of this disclosure. Processor 1100 may be an example of a processor configured to perform various operations according to the examples described herein. Processor 1100 may include a controller 1102 configured to perform various operations according to the examples described herein. Processor 1100 may optionally include at least one memory 1104, such as an L1 / L2 / L3 cache. Additionally or alternatively, processor 1100 may optionally include one or more arithmetic logic units (ALUs) 1100. One or more of these components may be electronically communicated or otherwise coupled (e.g., operative ground, communicative ground, functional ground, electronic ground, electrical ground) via one or more interfaces (e.g., buses).

[0300] Processor 1100 may be a processor chipset and includes a protocol stack (e.g., a software stack) executed by the processor chipset to perform various operations (e.g., receive, acquire, retrieve, send, output, forward, store, determine, identify, access, write, read) according to the examples described herein. The processor chipset may include one or more cores, one or more caches (e.g., memory local to the processor chipset (e.g., processor 1100) or included in the processor chipset) or other memory (e.g., random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), dynamic RAM (DRAM), synchronous dynamic RAM (SDRAM), static RAM (SRAM), ferroelectric RAM (FeRAM), magnetic RAM (MRAM), resistive RAM (RRAM), flash memory, phase-change memory (PCM), etc.).

[0301] Controller 1102 can be configured to manage and coordinate various operations of processor 1100 (e.g., signaling, receiving, acquiring, retrieving, sending, outputting, forwarding, storing, determining, identifying, accessing, writing, and reading) to enable processor 1100 to support various operations of network device 206-1 or LMF 106-1 as described herein. For example, controller 1102 can operate as a control unit of processor 1100, generating control signals that manage the operation of various components of processor 1100. These control signals include enabling or disabling functional units, selecting data paths, initiating memory accesses, and coordinating operation timing.

[0302] Controller 1102 may be configured to fetch (e.g., fetch, retrieve, receive) instructions from memory 1104 and determine subsequent instructions(s) to be executed, enabling processor 1100 to support various operations according to the examples described herein. Controller 1102 may be configured to track the memory addresses of instructions associated with memory 1104. Controller 1102 may be configured to decode instructions to determine the operations to be performed and the operands involved. For example, controller 1102 may be configured to interpret instructions and determine control signals to be output to other components of processor 1100, enabling processor 1100 to support various operations according to the examples described herein. Additionally or alternatively, controller 1102 may be configured to manage data flow within processor 1100. Controller 1102 may be configured to control data transfers between registers, arithmetic logic unit (ALU), and other functional units of processor 1100.

[0303] Memory 1104 may include one or more caches (e.g., memory local to or included in the processor 1100) or other memories such as RAM, ROM, DRAM, SDRAM, SRAM, MRAM, flash memory, etc. In some implementations, memory 1104 may reside within or on the processor chipset (e.g., locally to the processor 1100). In some other implementations, memory 1104 may reside outside the processor chipset (e.g., remotely from the processor 1100).

[0304] Memory 1104 may store computer-readable, computer-executable code, including instructions that, when executed by processor 1100, cause processor 1100 to perform the various functions described herein. The code may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium, such as system memory or another type of memory. Controller 1102 and / or processor 1100 may be configured to execute the computer-readable instructions stored in memory 1104 to cause processor 1100 to perform various functions. For example, processor 1100 and / or controller 1102 may be coupled to or coupled to memory 1104, and processor 1100, controller 1102, and memory 1104 may be configured to perform the various functions described herein. In some examples, processor 1100 may include multiple processors, and memory 1104 may include multiple memories. One or more of the multiple processors may be coupled to one or more of the multiple memories, which may be configured individually or collectively to perform the various functions described herein.

[0305] One or more ALUs 1100 can be configured to support various operations according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, one or more ALUs 1100 may reside within or on a processor chipset (e.g., processor 1100). In some other implementations, one or more ALUs 1100 may reside outside the processor chipset (e.g., processor 1100). One or more ALUs 1100 can perform one or more computations, such as performing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division on data. For example, one or more ALUs 1100 can receive input operands and an opcode that determines the operation to be performed. One or more ALUs 1100 are configured with various logic and arithmetic circuitry, including adders, subtractors, shifters, and logic gates, to process and manipulate data according to the operation. Alternatively or concurrently, one or more ALU 1100s may support logical operations such as AND, OR, XOR, NOR, and NAND, enabling one or more ALU 1100s to handle conditional operations, comparisons, and bitwise operations.

[0306] Processor 1100 may support wireless communications according to the examples disclosed herein. Processor 1100 may be configured or operable to support components for: receiving an indication of a change in the network coverage state of a user equipment (UE) within coverage, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; and determining a network device-dependent positioning operation or a network device-independent positioning operation for the first UE.

[0307] Figure 12 A flowchart illustrating a method 1200 for supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure is shown. Operation of method 1200 can be implemented by the device or components thereof described herein. For example, operation of method 1200 can be performed by a first UE 104-1 described herein. In some implementations, the device can execute a set of instructions to control functional elements of the device to perform the described functions. Alternatively or additionally, the device can use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the described functions.

[0308] At 1205, the method may include obtaining a change in the network coverage state of the UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE. The operation at 1205 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation at 1205 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0309] At 1210, the method may include sending an indication of a change in the network coverage state of a UE to a third UE associated with the first positioning operation or to a network device. The operation of 1210 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation of 1210 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0310] Figure 13 A flowchart illustrating a method 1300 for supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure is shown. Operation of method 1300 can be implemented by the device or components thereof described herein. For example, operation of method 1300 can be performed by a first UE 104-1 described herein. In some implementations, the device can execute a set of instructions to control functional elements of the device to perform the described functions. Alternatively or additionally, the device can use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the described functions. Method 1300 can be considered a continuation of method 1200.

[0311] At 1305, the method may include receiving from a network device a request for location session-related information associated with a first location operation or a request for location request-related information, wherein the first location operation is independent of the network device and the first UE is within network coverage. The operation at 1305 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation at 1305 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0312] At 1310, the method may include sending information related to a location request or a location session to the network device. The operation of 1310 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation of 1310 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0313] Figure 14 A flowchart illustrating a method 1400 for supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure is provided. Operation of method 1400 can be implemented by the device or components thereof described herein. For example, operation of method 1400 can be performed by a second UE 104-2 described herein. In some implementations, the device can execute a set of instructions to control functional elements of the device to perform the described functions. Alternatively or additionally, the device can use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the described functions.

[0314] At point 1405, the method may include determining a change in the network coverage state of the second UE. The operation at point 1405 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation at point 1405 may be derived from references... Figures 1A-1E The aforementioned device is used to perform this action.

[0315] At 1410, the method may include sending an indication of a change in network coverage status to one of: a first UE, a third UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or a network device. The operation of 1410 may be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation of 1410 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0316] Figure 15 A flowchart illustrating a method 1500 for supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure is provided. Operation of method 1500 can be implemented by the device or components thereof described herein. For example, operation of method 1500 can be performed by a second UE 104-2 described herein. In some implementations, the device can execute a set of instructions to control functional elements of the device to perform the described functions. Alternatively or additionally, the device can use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the described functions. Method 1500 can be considered a continuation of method 1400.

[0317] At point 1505, the method may include receiving from the first UE an indication that the network coverage state of the first UE has changed to outside coverage, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on the network device, and the second UE is within network coverage. The operation at point 1505 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation at point 1505 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1EThe device described is used to perform this action.

[0318] At 1510, the method may include sending an indication to the network device that the network coverage state of the first UE has changed to out of coverage. The operation of 1510 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation of 1510 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0319] Figure 16 A flowchart illustrating a method 1600 for supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure is shown. Operation of method 1600 can be implemented by the device or components thereof described herein. For example, operation of method 1600 can be performed by a third UE 104-3 described herein. In some implementations, the device can execute a set of instructions to control functional elements of the device to perform the described functions. Alternatively or additionally, the device can use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the described functions.

[0320] At 1605, the method may include receiving an indication of a change in the network coverage state of the UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE. The operation at 1605 may be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation at 1605 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0321] At 1610, the method may include determining whether a network device-dependent positioning operation or a network device-independent positioning operation is required for the first UE. The operation at 1610 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation at 1610 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0322] Figure 17 A flowchart illustrating method 1700 for supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure is shown. Operation of method 1700 can be implemented by the device or components thereof described herein. For example, operation of method 1700 can be performed by a third UE 104-3 described herein. In some implementations, the device can execute a set of instructions to control functional elements of the device to perform the described functions. Alternatively or additionally, the device can use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the described functions. Method 1700 can be considered a continuation of method 1600.

[0323] At 1705, the method may include information related to receiving a location request or information related to a location session associated with the first location operation. The operation at 1705 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation at 1705 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0324] At 1710, the method may include performing a second positioning operation for the first UE based on information related to the positioning request or information related to the positioning session. The operation at 1710 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation at 1710 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0325] Figure 18 A flowchart illustrating a method 1800 for supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure is shown. Operation of method 1800 can be implemented by the device or components thereof described herein. For example, operation of method 1800 can be performed by a third UE 104-3 described herein. In some implementations, the device can execute a set of instructions to control functional elements of the device to perform the described functions. Alternatively or additionally, the device can use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the described functions. Method 1800 can be considered a specific implementation of step 1710 in method 1700.

[0326] At point 1805, the method may include determining the updated measurement configuration or the updated configuration for SL-PRS. The operation at point 1805 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation at point 1805 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0327] At 1810, the method may include performing a second positioning operation based on the updated configuration or the updated measurement configuration. The operation at 1810 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation at 1810 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0328] Figure 19 A flowchart illustrating a method 1900 for supporting SL positioning with changes in a coverage scenario according to various aspects of this disclosure is shown. Operation of method 1900 can be implemented by the devices or components thereof described herein. For example, operation of method 1900 can be performed by network device 206-1 or LMF 106-1 described herein. In some implementations, the device can execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the device to perform the described functions. Alternatively or additionally, the device can use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the described functions.

[0329] At 1905, the method may include receiving an indication of a change in the network coverage state of a user equipment (UE) within the coverage area, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE. The operation at 1905 may be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation at 1905 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0330] At 1910, the method may include determining a network device-dependent positioning operation or a Datalia network device-dependent positioning operation for the first UE. The operation at 1910 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation at 1910 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0331] Figure 20 A flowchart illustrating a method 2000 for supporting SL positioning with changes in coverage scenarios according to various aspects of this disclosure is provided. Operation of method 2000 can be implemented by the devices or components described herein. For example, operation of method 2000 can be performed by network device 206-1 or LMF 106-1 described herein. In some implementations, the device can execute a set of instructions to control the functional elements of the device to perform the described functions. Alternatively or additionally, the device can use dedicated hardware to perform aspects of the described functions. Method 2000 can be considered a continuation of method 1900.

[0332] At point 2005, the method may include sending a request to the UE within coverage area for location session-related information associated with the first location operation or for location request-related information. The operation of 2005 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation of 2005 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0333] At point 2010, the method may include receiving location request-related information or location session-related information from a UE within coverage. The operation of 2010 can be performed according to the examples described herein. In some implementations, aspects of the operation of 2010 may be derived from references... Figures 1A to 1E The device described is used to perform this action.

[0334] It should be noted that the methods described in this paper describe possible implementations, and the operations and steps can be rearranged or otherwise modified, and other implementations are also possible. Furthermore, aspects from two or more methods can be combined.

[0335] The various illustrative boxes and components described in connection with this disclosure may be implemented or performed by a general-purpose processor, DSP, ASIC, CPU, FPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware component, or any combination thereof, designed to perform the functions described herein. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, but alternatively, the processor may be any processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices (e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors combined with a DSP core, or any other such configuration).

[0336] The functions described herein can be implemented in hardware, software executed by a processor, firmware, or any combination thereof. If implemented in software executed by a processor, the functions can be stored on or transmitted via a computer-readable medium as one or more instructions or code. Other examples and implementations are within the scope of this disclosure and the appended claims. For example, due to the nature of software, the functions described herein can be implemented using software executed by a processor, hardware, firmware, hardwiring, or any combination thereof. Features implementing the functions can also be physically located in various locations, including being distributed such that portions of the functions are implemented in different physical locations.

[0337] Computer-readable media include both non-transitory computer storage media and communication media, including any medium that facilitates the transfer of a computer program from one place to another. Non-transitory storage media can be any available medium that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer. For example, non-transitory computer-readable media can include RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable ROM (EEPROM), flash memory, optical disc (CD) ROM or other optical disc storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other non-transitory medium that can be used to carry and store desired program code components in the form of instructions or data structures, and that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer, or a general-purpose or special-purpose processor.

[0338] As used herein, including in the claims, the article “a” preceding an element is unrestricted and should be understood to mean “at least one” or “one or more” of those elements. The terms “a,” “at least one,” “one or more,” and “at least one of one or more” may be interchangeable. As used herein, including in the claims, the “or” used in a list of items (e.g., a list of items prefixed with phrases such as “at least one of…” or “one or more of…” or “one or two of…”) indicates a list of inclusion, such that, for example, a list of at least one of A, B, or C means A or B or C or AB or AC or BC or ABC (i.e., A and B and C). Furthermore, as used herein, the phrase “based on” should not be construed as a reference to a closed set of conditions. For example, an example step described as “based on condition A” without departing from the scope of this disclosure may be based on both condition A and condition B. In other words, as used herein, the phrase “based on” should be interpreted in the same manner as the phrase “at least partially based on.” Furthermore, as used herein, including in the claims, a “set” may include one or more elements.

[0339] The description herein is provided to enable those skilled in the art to make or use this disclosure. Various modifications to this disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other variations without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is not limited to the examples and designs described herein, but should be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

[0340] In summary, the embodiments of this disclosure can provide the following solutions.

[0341] Regulation 1. A first user equipment (UE) includes: a processor; and a transceiver coupled to the processor, wherein the processor is configured to: acquire a change in the network coverage state of the UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; and transmit, via the transceiver, an indication of the change in the network coverage state of the UE to a third UE associated with the first positioning operation or to a network device.

[0342] Regulation 2. The first UE according to Regulation 1, wherein the UE is the first UE, and the processor is further configured to: transmit auxiliary information via a transceiver to a network device or a third UE, the auxiliary information being used to determine whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network device dependent or network device independent.

[0343] Regulation 3. According to Regulation 2, the auxiliary information includes one of the following: the mobility information of the first UE; the Uu link quality of the first UE; or information related to the location request.

[0344] Regulation 4. According to Regulation 1, the indication of the change of network coverage status of the first UE includes: when the first UE enters network coverage within a predefined time window, the first UE sends an indication via transceiver to the third UE or network device that the network coverage status of the first UE has changed to within coverage.

[0345] Regulation 5. The first UE according to Regulation 1, wherein the processor is further configured to: send a request for location operation dependent on the network device to the network device via the transceiver when the network coverage status of the first UE changes to within coverage.

[0346] Regulation 6. The first UE according to Regulation 1, wherein the first positioning operation is independent of the network device, and the processor is further configured to: receive an instruction for a positioning operation independent of the network device from the network device via a transceiver when the first UE is within network coverage; and continue the first positioning operation.

[0347] Regulation 7. The first UE according to Regulation 1, wherein the first positioning operation is independent of the network device, and the processor is further configured to: when the first UE is within network coverage, receive from the network device via a transceiver a request for positioning session-related information associated with the first positioning operation or a request for positioning request-related information via a transceiver; and send the positioning request-related information or positioning session-related information to the network device via a transceiver.

[0348] Regulation 8. The first UE according to Regulation 1, wherein the processor is further configured to: when the first UE is within network coverage, receive from the network device via a transceiver an instruction for an operation to be performed by the third UE or an instruction for releasing server functions; and send via the transceiver to the third UE an instruction for an operation to be performed by the third UE or an instruction for releasing server functions.

[0349] Regulation 9. The first UE according to Regulation 1, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on the network device, and the processor is further configured to: determine the corresponding network coverage state of at least one second UE when the network coverage state of the UE changes to outside network coverage.

[0350] Regulation 10. The first UE according to Regulation 1, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device, and the processor is further configured to: determine a third UE for a network device-independent positioning operation for the first UE when at least one second UE and the first UE are outside network coverage; and perform the network device-independent positioning operation through the third UE.

[0351] Regulation 11. The first UE according to Regulation 10, wherein the first UE is used as a third UE for positioning operations independent of network devices.

[0352] Regulation 12. The first UE according to Regulation 10, wherein the processor is further configured to: transmit via a transceiver to at least one second UE information for a third UE for location operations independent of network devices.

[0353] Regulation 13. The first UE according to Regulation 1, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on the network device, and the processor is further configured to: identify the UE within the coverage area as a relay UE for communication between the first UE and the network device in the case that at least one second UE and the first UE are outside the network coverage area; and transmit positioning results or measurement data associated with the first UE to the network device via a transceiver and via the UE within the coverage area.

[0354] Regulation 14. The first UE according to Regulation 13, wherein the processor is further configured to: terminate the location session if the UE within the coverage area is not identified within the time period.

[0355] Regulation 15. The first UE according to Regulation 1, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on the network device, the first UE is within network coverage, the UE is the second UE, and the processor is further configured to: reselect the second UE if the network coverage status of the second UE changes to outside network coverage.

[0356] Regulation 16. A first UE according to Regulation 1, wherein the first positioning operation is network device dependent, the UE is the first UE, and the processor is further configured to: determine, in the case that the network coverage state of the first UE changes to out-of-coverage, a network device dependent positioning operation or a network device independent positioning operation for the first UE; and, in the case that a network device independent positioning operation is determined, send an indication of a network device independent positioning operation to the network device via a transceiver and via an in-coverage UE; or, in the case that a network device dependent positioning operation is determined, send a request and auxiliary information for a network device dependent positioning operation to the network device via a transceiver and via an in-coverage UE, the auxiliary information being used by the network device to determine whether a network device dependent positioning operation or a network device independent positioning operation for the first UE.

[0357] Regulation 17. The first UE pursuant to Regulation 16, wherein the auxiliary information includes the mobility information of the first UE.

[0358] Regulation 18. The first UE according to Regulation 1, wherein the network coverage status of the first UE changes to out of coverage, and the indication of the change in network coverage status is sent to the network device via the in-coverage UE.

[0359] Regulation 19. The first UE according to Regulation 18, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on the network device, and the processor is further configured to: receive, via a transceiver and via the UE within coverage, information related to the positioning operation independent of the network device and the positioning request from the network device.

[0360] Regulation 20. The first UE according to Regulation 1, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on the network device, the network coverage state of the first UE is changed to out of coverage, and the processor is further configured to: determine a third UE for the positioning operation independent of the network device when the positioning operation independent of the network device is determined for the first UE.

[0361] Regulation 21. A first UE pursuant to Regulation 10 or 20, wherein the processor is further configured to: transmit via a transceiver to a third UE for location operations independent of network devices one of the following: information related to a location request, information related to a location session associated with the first location operation, or an instruction for an operation to be performed by the third UE in a location operation independent of network devices.

[0362] Regulation 22. The first UE pursuant to Regulation 7 or 21, wherein the location request-related information includes quality of service (QoS) requirements, and the location session-related information includes one of the following: information of at least one second UE; configuration for a sidelink location reference signal (SL-PRS) used for the first location operation; measurement configuration associated with the first location operation; measurement data in the first location operation; session identifier; transaction identifier; or indication of whether reliable transmission is enabled in the first location operation.

[0363] Regulation 23. According to Regulation 21, for the first UE, information related to the location request or the location session is sent in the RequestAssistanceData message.

[0364] Regulation 24. The first UE according to Regulation 1, wherein the first UE is outside the network coverage before obtaining the change in the network coverage state of the first UE, and the UE within the coverage is a relay UE for communication between the first UE and the network device, and the processor is further configured to: send an instruction to release the relay function to the UE within the coverage via a transceiver when the network coverage state of the first UE changes to within the coverage.

[0365] Regulation 25. The first UE according to any one of Regulation 16, 18 and 24, wherein the covered UE is the second UE of at least one second UE.

[0366] Regulation 26. According to Regulation 1, the first UE, wherein determining the change in the network coverage status of the second UE includes: receiving an indication of the change in the network coverage status of the second UE from the second UE via a transceiver.

[0367] Regulation 27. A second user equipment (UE) includes: a processor; and a transceiver coupled to the processor, wherein the processor is configured to: determine a change in network coverage status of the second UE; and transmit via the transceiver an indication of the change in network coverage status to one of: a first UE, a third UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or a network device.

[0368] Regulation 28. The second UE according to Regulation 27, wherein the indication of the change of network coverage status of the second UE includes one of the following: when the second UE enters network coverage within a predefined time window, the indication of the change of the network coverage status of the second UE to within coverage is sent via transceiver; or when the second UE moves out of network coverage, the indication of the change of the network coverage status of the second UE to outside coverage is sent via transceiver to the first UE.

[0369] Regulation 29. The second UE according to Regulation 27, wherein the processor is further configured to: transmit auxiliary information via a transceiver to a network device or a third UE, the auxiliary information being used to determine whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network device dependent or network device independent.

[0370] Regulation 30. The second UE pursuant to Regulation 29, wherein the auxiliary information includes one of the following: the mobility information of the second UE; the Uu link quality of the second UE; or information related to a location request.

[0371] Regulation 31. The second UE according to Regulation 27, wherein the processor is further configured to: send a request for location operation dependent on the network device to the network device via a transceiver when the network coverage status of the second UE changes to within coverage.

[0372] Regulation 32. The second UE according to Regulation 27, wherein the first positioning operation is independent of the network device, and the processor is further configured to: receive an instruction for a positioning operation independent of the network device from the network device via a transceiver when the second UE is within network coverage; and continue the first positioning operation.

[0373] Regulation 33. The second UE according to Regulation 27, wherein the first positioning operation is independent of the network device, and the processor is further configured to: when the second UE is within network coverage, receive from the network device via a transceiver a request for positioning session-related information associated with the first positioning operation or a request for positioning request-related information via a transceiver; and send positioning request-related information or positioning session-related information to the network device via a transceiver.

[0374] Regulation 34. The second UE according to Regulation 27, wherein the processor is further configured to: when the second UE is within network coverage, receive from a network device via a transceiver an instruction for an operation to be performed by a third UE or an instruction for releasing server functions; and send via a transceiver to the third UE an instruction for an operation to be performed by the third UE or an instruction for releasing server functions.

[0375] Regulation 35. A second UE according to Regulation 27, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device, and the processor is further configured to: receive information from the first UE via a transceiver regarding a third UE for a network device-independent positioning operation for the first UE; and perform a network device-independent positioning operation through the third UE and the first UE.

[0376] Regulation 36. A second UE pursuant to Regulation 27, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device, the second UE is within network coverage, and the processor is further configured to: receive, via a transceiver, an instruction for a positioning operation independent of the network device from the first UE; and transmit, via a transceiver, an instruction for a positioning operation independent of the network device to the network device.

[0377] Regulation 37. A second UE according to Regulation 27, wherein the first positioning operation is network device dependent, the second UE is within network coverage, and the processor is further configured to: receive, via a transceiver, a request and auxiliary information for a network device dependent positioning operation from the first UE, the gauge auxiliary information being used by the network device to determine whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network device dependent or network device independent; and send, via a transceiver, a request for a network device dependent positioning operation and auxiliary information to the network device.

[0378] Regulation 38. The second UE pursuant to Regulation 37, wherein the auxiliary information includes the mobility information of the first UE.

[0379] Regulation 39. A second UE pursuant to Regulation 27, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device, the second UE is within network coverage, and the processor is further configured to: receive from the first UE via a transceiver an indication that the network coverage status of the first UE has changed to outside coverage; and transmit via the transceiver to the network device an indication that the network coverage status of the first UE has changed to outside coverage.

[0380] Regulation 40. A second UE pursuant to Regulation 27, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device, the second UE is within network coverage, and the processor is further configured to: receive, via a transceiver, information related to an instruction for a positioning operation independent of the network device and a positioning request from the network device; and transmit, via a transceiver, information related to an instruction for a positioning operation independent of the network device and a positioning request to the first UE.

[0381] Regulation 41. A second UE pursuant to Regulation 33 or 40, wherein the location request-related information includes quality of service (QoS) requirements, and the location session-related information includes one of the following: information of at least one second UE associated with the first location operation; configuration of a sidelink location reference signal (SL-PRS) for the first location operation; measurement configuration associated with the first location operation; measurement data in the first location operation; session identifier; transaction identifier; or indication of whether reliable transmission is enabled in the first location operation.

[0382] Regulation 42. A second UE pursuant to Regulation 27, wherein the second UE is within network coverage, serves as a relay UE for communication between the first UE and the network device, and the processor is further configured to: receive an instruction to release the relay function from the first UE or the network device via a transceiver.

[0383] Regulation 43. A third user equipment (UE) comprising: a processor; and a transceiver coupled to the processor, wherein the processor is configured to: receive via the transceiver one of the following: an indication of a change in the network coverage state of the UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or one of at least a second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or positioning session-related information associated with the first positioning operation, or positioning request-related information; and, upon receiving the indication of a change in the network coverage state of the UE, determining a network device-dependent positioning operation or a network device-independent positioning operation for the first UE; or, upon receiving the positioning request-related information or the positioning session-related information, performing a second positioning operation for the first UE based on the positioning request-related information or the positioning session-related information.

[0384] Regulation 44. A third UE according to Regulation 43, wherein the processor is further configured to: receive auxiliary information from the UE via a transceiver, and wherein indications and auxiliary information based on changes in the network coverage status of the UE, whether location operations dependent on or independent of the network device, are determined.

[0385] Regulation 45. The third UE according to Regulation 43, wherein the processor is further configured to: receive auxiliary information from the first UE via a transceiver, and wherein an indication and auxiliary information based on a change in the network coverage state of the UE, whether dependent on or independent of the positioning operation of the network device, are determined.

[0386] Regulation 46. A third UE pursuant to Regulation 44 or 45, wherein the auxiliary information includes one of the following: UE mobility information; UE Uu link quality; or location request related information.

[0387] Regulation 47. A third UE pursuant to Regulation 43, wherein the processor is further configured to: receive, via a transceiver, an instruction to perform an operation or an instruction to release a server function from a network device or a UE within coverage; and, if the instruction to perform an operation is received, perform the operation; or, if the instruction to release a server function is received, release the server function.

[0388] Regulation 48. A third UE pursuant to Regulation 43, wherein the location request-related information includes quality of service (QoS) requirements, and the location session-related information includes one of the following: information of at least one second UE; configuration for a sidelink location reference signal (SL-PRS) used for a first location operation; measurement configuration associated with the first location operation; measurement data in the first location operation; session identifier; transaction identifier; or indication of whether reliable transmission is enabled in the first location operation.

[0389] Regulation 49. The third UE according to Regulation 43, wherein information related to a location request or a location session is received in a RequestAssistanceData message, and the processor is further configured to: determine an updated measurement configuration or an updated configuration for SL-PRS, and wherein a second location operation is performed based on the updated configuration or the updated measurement configuration.

[0390] Regulation 50. A third UE pursuant to Regulation 43, wherein performing the second positioning operation includes: receiving measurement data associated with the first UE via a transceiver in a ProvideLocationInformation message; and performing a location calculation for the first UE based on the measurement data.

[0391] Regulation 51. A network device comprising: a processor; and a transceiver coupled to the processor, wherein the processor is configured to: receive, via the transceiver, an indication of a change in network coverage state of a user equipment (UE) within coverage, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; and determine whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network device dependent or network device independent.

[0392] Regulation 52. A network device according to Regulation 51, wherein the processor is further configured to: receive auxiliary information from a UE within coverage via a transceiver, and wherein an indication and auxiliary information based on a change in the network coverage state of the UE, depending on or independent of the positioning operation of the network device, are determined.

[0393] Regulation 53. For network devices pursuant to Regulation 52, the auxiliary information includes one of the following: UE mobility information; UE Uu link quality; or location request related information.

[0394] Regulation 54. A network device pursuant to Regulation 51, wherein the processor is further configured to receive, via a transceiver, a request from a UE within coverage for a location operation dependent on the network device.

[0395] Regulation 55. A network device according to Regulation 51, wherein the first positioning operation is independent of the network device, and the processor is further configured to: when the positioning operation independent of the network device is determined, transmit an indication of the positioning operation independent of the network device to the UE within the coverage area via a transceiver.

[0396] Regulation 56. A network device pursuant to Regulation 51, wherein the processor is further configured to: transmit via a transceiver to a UE within coverage a request for location session-related information associated with a first location operation or a request for location request-related information; and receive via a transceiver from a UE within coverage a location request-related information or location session-related information.

[0397] Regulation 57. A network device pursuant to Regulation 51, wherein the processor is further configured to: determine whether a location operation dependent on the network device is required for a third UE if such operation is determined; and, if such operation is required for the third UE, send an instruction to the third UE via a transceiver and via an in-coverage UE to perform an operation; or, if such operation is not required for the third UE, send an instruction to the third UE via a transceiver and via an in-coverage UE to release server functions performed by the third UE.

[0398] Regulation 58. A network device according to Regulation 51, wherein the processor is further configured to: determine, in the event that a location operation dependent on the network device is determined, perform the location operation dependent on the network device by at least one second UE; reselect the second UE for the location operation dependent on the network device; or, if the first UE is within network coverage, terminate the sidelink location session and start a Uu location session or a hybrid Uu and PC5 location session.

[0399] Regulation 59. A network device pursuant to Regulation 51, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on the network device, and the processor is further configured to: when the network device-dependent positioning operation is determined and the first UE is outside network coverage, receive positioning results or measurement data associated with the first UE from a UE within coverage via a transceiver.

[0400] Regulation 60. A network device pursuant to Regulation 59, wherein the processor is further configured to: determine, in the case that a location operation dependent on the network device is determined and the first UE is outside network coverage, determine an in-coverage UE for communication between the first UE and the network device; and terminate the location session if an in-coverage UE is not determined.

[0401] Regulation 61. A network device according to Regulation 51, wherein the processor is further configured to: reselect the second UE if the network coverage status of the second UE changes to outside network coverage.

[0402] Regulation 62. A network device pursuant to Regulation 51, wherein the processor is further configured to: if the network device does not receive a response from the second UE within a time period, perform one of the following: reselect the second UE; or terminate the location session.

[0403] Regulation 63. A network device pursuant to Regulation 51, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on the network device, the network coverage state of the first UE changes to out of coverage, and the processor is further configured to: receive, via a transceiver, an instruction for a positioning operation independent of the network device from an in-coverage UE.

[0404] Regulation 64. A network device pursuant to Regulation 51, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on the network device, the network coverage state of the first UE changes to out of coverage, and the processor is further configured to: receive, via a transceiver, a request and auxiliary information for a positioning operation dependent on the network device from an in-coverage UE, and wherein an indication and auxiliary information based on a change in the network coverage state of the UE is determined for a positioning operation dependent on the network device or a positioning operation independent of the network device.

[0405] Regulation 65. A network device pursuant to Regulation 64, wherein the auxiliary information includes the mobility information of the first UE.

[0406] Regulation 66. A network device according to Regulation 51, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on the network device, the network coverage state of the first UE changes to out of coverage, and the processor is further configured to: send, via transceiver and via an in-coverage UE, information related to an instruction for positioning operation independent of the network device and a positioning request to the first UE.

[0407] Regulation 67. A network device pursuant to Regulation 51, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on the network device, the network coverage state of the first UE changes to out of coverage, and the processor is further configured to: determine that a third UE is required for a positioning operation independent of the network device when a positioning operation independent of the network device is determined for the first UE; and send an indication that the third UE is required to the first UE via a transceiver and via an in-coverage UE.

[0408] Regulation 68. A network device pursuant to Regulation 67, wherein the processor is further configured to: transmit via a transceiver to a third UE for location operations independent of the network device, one of the following: information related to a location request, information related to a location session associated with a first location operation, or an instruction for an operation to be performed by the third UE in a location operation independent of the network device.

[0409] Regulation 69. A network device pursuant to Regulation 56 or 68, wherein the location request-related information includes quality of service (QoS) requirements, and the location session-related information includes one of the following: information of at least one second UE; configuration for a sidelink location reference signal (SL-PRS) used for a first location operation; measurement configuration associated with the first location operation; measurement data in the first location operation; session identifier; transaction identifier; or indication of whether reliable transmission is enabled in the first location operation.

[0410] Regulation 70. A network device pursuant to Regulation 51, wherein, prior to receiving the instruction, the first UE is outside network coverage, and the UE within coverage is a relay UE for communication between the first UE and the network device, and the processor is further configured to: send an instruction to the UE within coverage via a transceiver to release relay functionality if the network coverage status of the first UE changes to within coverage.

[0411] Regulation 71. A network device pursuant to Regulation 51, wherein the UE within coverage is a second UE of at least one second UE, or a first UE.

[0412] Regulations 72. A method performed by a first user equipment (UE), the method comprising: acquiring a change in network coverage status of the UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; and sending an indication of the change in network coverage status of the UE to a third UE associated with the first positioning operation or to a network device.

[0413] Regulation 73. A method performed by a second user equipment (UE), the method comprising: determining a change in network coverage status of the second UE; and sending an indication of the change in network coverage status to one of: a first UE, a third UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or a network device.

[0414] Regulation 74. A method performed by a third user equipment (UE), the method comprising: receiving an indication of a change in network coverage state of the UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or positioning session-related information associated with the first positioning operation, or positioning request-related information; and, upon receiving the indication of a change in network coverage state of the UE, determining a network device-dependent positioning operation or a network device-independent positioning operation for the first UE; or, upon receiving the positioning request-related information or the positioning session-related information, performing a second positioning operation for the first UE based on the positioning request-related information or the positioning session-related information.

[0415] Regulation 75. A method performed by a network device, the method comprising: receiving from an in-coverage user equipment (UE) an indication of a change in network coverage status of the UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; and determining whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network device dependent or network device independent.

[0416] Regulations 76. A processor for wireless communication includes: at least one memory; and a controller coupled to the at least one memory and configured to cause the controller to: acquire a change in network coverage state of a UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; and send an indication of the change in network coverage state of the UE to a third UE associated with the first positioning operation or to a network device.

[0417] Regulations 77. A processor for wireless communication includes: at least one memory; and a controller coupled to the at least one memory and configured to cause the controller to: determine a change in network coverage status of a second UE; and transmit via a transceiver an indication of the change in network coverage status to one of: a first UE, a third UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or a network device.

[0418] Regulations 78. A processor for wireless communication, comprising: at least one memory; and a controller coupled to the at least one memory and configured such that the controller: receives via a transceiver one of the following: an indication of a change in network coverage state of a UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or one of at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or positioning session-related information associated with the first positioning operation, or positioning request-related information; and, upon receiving the indication of a change in network coverage state of the UE, determining a network device-dependent positioning operation or a network device-independent positioning operation for the first UE; or, upon receiving the positioning request-related information or the positioning session-related information, performing a second positioning operation for the first UE based on the positioning request-related information or the positioning session-related information.

[0419] 79. A processor for wireless communication, comprising: at least one memory; and a controller coupled to the at least one memory and configured to cause the controller to: receive, via a transceiver, an indication of a change in network coverage state of a user equipment (UE) within coverage, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; and determine whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network device dependent or network device independent.

[0420] Regulation 80. A non-transitory computer-readable medium having program instructions stored thereon, which, when executed by a device, cause the device to perform at least one of the methods according to Regulation 72 to 75.

Claims

1. A first user equipment (UE), comprising: processor; as well as The transceiver coupled to the processor, The processor is configured as follows: The change in the network coverage status of the UE is obtained, wherein the UE is the first UE or one of at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; as well as The transceiver sends an indication of the change in the network coverage status of the UE to a third UE associated with the first positioning operation or to a network device via the transceiver.

2. The first UE according to claim 1, wherein the UE is the first UE, and the processor is further configured to: The transceiver sends auxiliary information to the network device or the third UE, the auxiliary information being used to determine whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network device dependent or network device independent. The auxiliary information mentioned above includes one of the following: Mobility information of the first UE; The Uu link quality of the first UE; or Location request related information.

3. The first UE according to claim 1, wherein the indication of the change in the network coverage state of the UE includes: If the first UE enters network coverage within a predefined time window, the transceiver sends an indication that the network coverage status of the first UE has changed to within coverage to the third UE or the network device.

4. The first UE according to claim 1, wherein the first positioning operation is independent of the network device, and the processor is further configured to: When the first UE is within network coverage, it receives, via the transceiver, an instruction for location operation independent of the network device from the network device; and Continue with the first positioning operation.

5. The first UE according to claim 1, wherein the first positioning operation is independent of the network device, and the processor is further configured to: When the first UE is within network coverage, it receives, via the transceiver, a request for location session-related information associated with the first location operation or a request for location request-related information from the network device; and The transceiver sends information related to the location request or the location session to the network device. The location request-related information includes Quality of Service (QoS) requirements, and the location session-related information includes one of the following: Information of at least one second UE; Configuration of the side link positioning reference signal (SL-PRS), the SL-PRS being used in the first positioning operation; Measurement configuration associated with the first positioning operation; Measurement data from the first positioning operation; Session identifier; Transaction identifier; or An indication of whether reliable transmission is enabled in the first positioning operation.

6. The first UE of claim 1, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device, and the processor is further configured to: In cases where at least one second UE and the first UE are outside network coverage, the UE within coverage is identified as a relay UE for communication between the first UE and the network device; and The location results or measurement data associated with the first UE are sent to the network device via the transceiver and via the UE within the coverage area.

7. The first UE of claim 1, wherein the first positioning operation is dependent on a network device, the UE is the first UE, and the processor is further configured to: When the network coverage status of the first UE changes to out-of-coverage, determine whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network device dependent or network device independent; and If the network device-independent positioning operation is determined, an indication of the network device-independent positioning operation is transmitted to the network device via the transceiver and via the UE within the coverage area; or When the network device-dependent positioning operation is determined, a request and auxiliary information for the network device-dependent positioning operation are sent to the network device via the transceiver and via the UE within the coverage area. The auxiliary information is used by the network device to determine whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network device-dependent or network device-independent.

8. The first UE according to claim 1, wherein before the change in the network coverage state of the first UE is obtained, the first UE is outside network coverage, and the UE within coverage is a relay UE for communication between the first UE and the network device, and the processor is further configured to: When the network coverage status of the first UE changes to within coverage, an instruction to release the relay function is sent to the UE within coverage via the transceiver.

9. A second user equipment (UE), comprising: processor; as well as The transceiver coupled to the processor, The processor is configured as follows: Determine the change in the network coverage status of the second UE; as well as The transceiver sends an indication of the change in network coverage status to one of the following: a first UE, a third UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or a network device.

10. The second UE of claim 9, wherein the indication of the change in network coverage status of the second UE includes one of the following: If the second UE enters network coverage within a predefined time window, the transceiver sends an indication that the network coverage status of the second UE has changed to within coverage; or When the second UE moves out of network coverage, the transceiver sends an indication to the first UE that the network coverage status of the second UE has changed to out of coverage.

11. The second UE according to claim 9, wherein the processor is further configured to: When the second UE is within network coverage, it receives, via the transceiver, an instruction from the network device to perform an operation by the third UE or an instruction to release server functions; and The transceiver sends the instruction to the third UE to perform an operation or to release the server function.

12. The second UE of claim 9, wherein the first positioning operation is network-device dependent, the second UE is within network coverage, and the processor is further configured to: Receive from the first UE via the transceiver an indication that the network coverage status of the first UE has changed to out of coverage; and The transceiver sends the indication to the network device that the network coverage status of the first UE has changed to outside coverage.

13. A third user equipment (UE), comprising: processor; as well as The transceiver coupled to the processor, The processor is configured as follows: Receive one of the following via the transceiver: An indication of a change in the network coverage status of a UE, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE, or Information related to the location request or information related to the location session associated with the first location operation; as well as If the indication of the change in the network coverage state of the UE is received, determine whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network device dependent or network device independent; or When the location request-related information or the location session-related information is received, a second location operation is performed for the first UE based on the location request-related information or the location session-related information.

14. The third UE according to claim 13, wherein the processor is further configured to: Receive auxiliary information from the first UE or the second UE via the transceiver, and The location operation, which is either network device dependent or network device independent, is determined based on the indication and auxiliary information of the change in the network coverage status of the UE.

15. The third UE according to claim 13, wherein the processor is further configured to: Receive, via the transceiver, an instruction to be performed by the third UE or an instruction to release server functions from the network device or the UE within the coverage area; as well as If the instruction for the operation is received, the operation is performed; or Upon receiving the instruction to release the server function, the server function is released.

16. A network device, comprising: processor; as well as The transceiver coupled to the processor, The processor is configured as follows: Receive, via the transceiver, an indication of a change in the network coverage status of a user equipment (UE) within the coverage area, wherein the UE is a first UE or a second UE among at least one second UE associated with a first positioning operation for the first UE; as well as Determine whether the positioning operation for the first UE is network device dependent or network device independent.

17. The network device of claim 16, wherein the processor is further configured to: The transceiver receives a request for location operations dependent on network devices from the UE within the coverage area.

18. The network device of claim 16, wherein the processor is further configured to: When the network device-dependent positioning operation is determined, one of the following is determined: The network device-dependent positioning operation is performed by the at least one second UE; Reselect a second UE for the network device-dependent positioning operation; or If the first UE is within network coverage, the sidelink positioning session is terminated, and a Uu positioning session or a hybrid Uu and PC5 positioning session is started.

19. The network device of claim 16, wherein the first positioning operation is network device-dependent, the network coverage state of the first UE changes to out-of-coverage, and the processor is further configured to: The transceiver receives instructions for the network device-independent positioning operation from the UE within the coverage area.

20. The network device of claim 16, wherein the first positioning operation is network device-dependent, the network coverage state of the first UE changes to out-of-coverage, and the processor is further configured to: The transceiver sends, via the UE within the coverage area, instructions and location request-related information for location operations independent of the network device to the first UE.

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