Scrambling perceptual signals

Abstract

Examples of the present disclosure relate to scrambling radio frequency (RF) perceived signals. In an example of the present disclosure, an awareness node may include a component to send an indication of awareness requirements for supporting awareness as a service, and a component to receive a configuration for an awareness group from a network node. The perceiving node may also include means for performing perceiving according to the configuration for the perceiving group.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure includes examples of scrambling sensing signals. Some examples involve scrambling radio frequency (RF) sensing signals. Background Technology

[0002] Sensing signals (such as RF sensing signals) can be used to detect, identify, authenticate, or locate objects. The object can be a passive object that does not send or receive signals. Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a sensing node may be provided that includes components for operating as follows: Send instructions to support perception-as-a-service perception requirements; Receive configuration for the perception group from the network node; and Sensing is performed according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

[0004] Perception requirements can include key performance indicators used to identify perception groups.

[0005] One or more key performance indicators may include at least one of the following: Distance resolution; Angular resolution; Doppler resolution; Doppler accuracy; Angle accuracy; Distance accuracy; Maximum observable distance; Maximum Doppler; The probability of a false alarm for a given radar cross-section; The probability of false detection for a given radar cross-section; Privacy level.

[0006] The configuration for a perception group may include at least one of the following: Indicators of sensing signals and their allocation; Indicators for scrambling will be used to sense signals; Indication of the perceived sequence; Indication of the node emitting the sensing signal; Indication of receiving nodes within the sensing group; Indications from network nodes within the sensing group;

[0007] A perception group may include multiple nodes, including at least one service node.

[0008] A service node can be at least one of the following: Sensing nodes; Sending node; Sensing and transmitting nodes;

[0009] Performing sensing according to the configuration used for the sensing group may include: performing the detection of one or more sensing signals, and estimating one or more parameters based on the detected sensing signals.

[0010] Performing sensing based on the configuration used for the sensing group may include sending sensing information to network nodes.

[0011] The component can be used to enable the transmission of requests for perception as a service.

[0012] Based on various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a method may be provided that includes: Send instructions to support perception-as-a-service perception requirements; Receive configuration for the perception group from the network node; and Sensing is performed according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

[0013] Based on various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a perception node, cause the perception node to perform: Send instructions to support perception-as-a-service perception requirements; Receive configuration for the perception group from the network node; and Sensing is performed according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

[0014] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples disclosed herein, the sending node, including components, can be provided for: Receive configuration for the sensing group; and Reference signals are sent according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

[0015] Based on various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a method may be provided that includes: Receive configuration for the sensing group; and Reference signals are sent according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

[0016] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a computer program including instructions is provided that, when executed by a transmitting node, cause a sensing node to perform: Receive configuration for the sensing group; and Reference signals are sent according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

[0017] According to various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a network node may be provided that includes components for the following operations: Receive instructions from the sensing node to support sensing requirements for sensing as a service; and Send the configuration for the perception group to one or more nodes included in the perception group.

[0018] This component can be used to: identify a group of nodes for which a sensing requirement can be met, based on the indication of the received sensing requirement.

[0019] A node can be in an existing group.

[0020] A node can be grouped into a new group.

[0021] This component can be used to distribute sensing signals within a sensing group, and the distribution of sensing signals within the sensing group is based at least in part on sensing requirements.

[0022] This component can be used to: select a scrambling method for a sensing group, and the scrambling method is selected at least in part based on the radar transmission attributes of the sensing group.

[0023] Based on various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a method may be provided that includes: Receive instructions from the sensing node to support sensing requirements for sensing as a service; and Send the configuration for the perception group to one or more nodes included in the perception group.

[0024] Based on various, but not necessarily all, examples of this disclosure, a computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a network node, cause the network node to perform: Receive instructions from the sensing node to support sensing requirements for sensing as a service; and Send the configuration for the perception group to one or more nodes included in the perception group.

[0025] Although the examples and optional features described above in this disclosure are described individually, it will be understood that all possible combinations and permutations thereof are provided within this disclosure. It will be understood that various examples of this disclosure may include any or all of the features described with respect to other examples of this disclosure, and vice versa. Furthermore, it will be understood that any one or more of the features, in any combination, may be implemented / included therein / may be implemented by means of apparatus, method, and / or computer program instructions as desired and as appropriate. Attached Figure Description

[0026] Some examples will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0027] Figure 1 An example network is shown;

[0028] Figures 2A to 2C An example perceptual architecture is shown;

[0029] Figures 3A to 3C Example methods are shown;

[0030] Figure 4 An example perceptual topology is shown;

[0031] Figure 5 An example perceptual topology is shown;

[0032] Figure 6 Example methods are shown;

[0033] Figure 7 An example signal process is shown;

[0034] Figure 8 An example scrambling process is shown;

[0035] Figure 9 An example scrambling process is shown; and

[0036] Figure 10 An example controller is shown.

[0037] The accompanying drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. For clarity and simplicity, some features and views in the drawings may be shown schematically or enlarged to scale. For example, the dimensions of some elements in the drawings may be enlarged relative to other elements to aid in interpretation. Corresponding reference numerals are used in the drawings to designate the corresponding features. For clarity, not all reference numerals may be shown in all drawings. definition

[0038] CPI coherent processing interval

[0039] CSI-RS Channel State Information - Reference Signal

[0040] DMRS demodulation reference signal

[0041] E-UTRA Evolved Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access

[0042] FMCW (Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave)

[0043] gNB NR base station

[0044] KPIs (Key Performance Indicators)

[0045] LPP (Long Term Evolution Positioning Protocol)

[0046] LTE Long Term Evolution

[0047] ML Machine Learning

[0048] NR New Radio

[0049] NRPPa New Radio Positioning Protocol

[0050] OFDM (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing)

[0051] O-RAN Open Radio Access Network

[0052] PRS Positioning Reference Signal

[0053] PTRS phase tracking reference signal

[0054] RAN (Radio Access Network)

[0055] RE Resource Elements

[0056] RF (Radio Frequency)

[0057] RRC Radio Resource Control

[0058] SaaS Perception as a Service

[0059] SeMF Sensing Management Function

[0060] SRS Detection Reference Signal

[0061] UE User Equipment Detailed Implementation

[0062] Figure 1 The illustration shows an example of a network 100, such as a 5G NR network. Network 100 includes multiple nodes 110, 120, and 130 of different types. These different types of nodes may include terminal nodes 110 and network nodes. Network nodes may include serving nodes 120, core network nodes 130, and / or any other suitable type of device.

[0063] Service node 120 can be configured to communicate with terminal node 110. Core network node 130 communicates with service node 120. In some examples, core network node 130 communicates with terminal node 110.

[0064] In some examples, core network nodes 130 can communicate with each other. In some examples, one or more service nodes 120 can communicate with each other.

[0065] Network 100 may be a cellular network comprising multiple cells 122. Each cell is served by a serving node 120. In this example, the interface between the terminal node 110 and the serving node 120 defining cell 122 is a radio interface 124.

[0066] Service node 120 includes one or more cellular radio transceivers. Terminal node 110 includes one or more cellular radio transceivers.

[0067] In the illustrated example, cellular network 100 is a 3GPP network, where terminal node 110 is a user equipment (UE) and serving node 120 may be an access node (such as a base station (gNB)).

[0068] The term "user equipment" is used to specify a mobile device that includes a smart card (such as a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM)) for authentication and encryption. In some examples, the term "user equipment" is used to specify a mobile device that includes a circuitry embedded as part of the user equipment for authentication / encryption (such as a software SIM).

[0069] Serving node 120 can be a base station. Serving node 120 can be any suitable type of base station. A base station is an access node. Serving node 120 can be a network entity responsible for radio transmission and reception to or from UE 110 in one or more cells. Serving node 120 can be a network element in a radio access network (RAN), or any other suitable type of network.

[0070] Core network node 130 may be part of a core network. Core network node 130 may be configured to manage functions related to connectivity for UE 110. For example, core network node 130 may be configured to manage functions such as connectivity, mobility, authentication, authorization, and / or other suitable functions.

[0071] exist Figure 1 In the example, core network node 130 is shown as a single entity. In some examples, the functionality of core network node 130 may be distributed across multiple entities. For example, core network node 130 may be cloud-based or distributed in any other suitable manner.

[0072] For example, network 100 can be a 4G or 5G network. It can be, for example, a New Radio (NR) network using gNBs as access nodes. New Radio is a 3GPP name for 5G technology. In this case, serving node 120 can include gNodeBs (gNBs) 120 configured to provide user plane and control plane protocol termination to UE 110, and / or perform any other suitable functions. gNBs 120 interconnect with each other via X2 / Xn interfaces 126. gNBs 120 are also connected to core network node 130 via N2 interfaces 128. Other types of networks and interfaces can be used in other examples. Other types of networks can include next-generation mobile and communication networks, such as 6G networks.

[0073] Network 100 can be configured to enable awareness of objects located within the area of ​​network 100. For example, gNB 120 and UE 110 within the network can be configured to transmit and receive RF sensing signals. This allows 100 to be used to perform radar sensing or any other suitable type of sensing.

[0074] Different system architectures can be used for sensing. Different sensing system architectures can be monolithic or bilithic. In a monolithic sensing system, a single node sends and receives sensing signals. In a monolithic sensing system, the transmitter and receiver are located within the same node. In a bilithic sensing system, the first node sends sensing signals, and the second node receives them. In a bilithic sensing system, the transmitter and receiver are located in different nodes.

[0075] To enable object perception, the receiving node must know the transmitted perception signal. In cases such as... Figure 1 In a communication network such as Network 100, the sensing signal can be a communication reference signal, a dedicated radar signal, or any other suitable type of signal.

[0076] Figures 2A to 2C An example system architecture that can be used for sensing within a communication network 100 is illustrated. The system architecture can be configured to detect one or more objects 200. Objects 200 can be passive objects that do not send or receive signals for any purpose or for sensing. Sensing signals reflected by objects 200 can be used to sense objects 200.

[0077] Figure 2A The Network-as-a-Sensor (NaS) architecture is illustrated. Figure 2A In this architecture, a single-site system is provided, in which the same gNB 120 transmits and receives sensing signals 214.

[0078] exist Figure 2A In the example, gNB 120 includes a transmit array 202 and a receive array 204. The transmit array 202 is configured to transmit a transmit beam 206, and the receive array 204 is configured to receive a receive beam 208.

[0079] Transmission beam 206 can be used to send communication signal 212 to UE 110. Communication signal 212 can be sent via radio channel 210.

[0080] The transmission beam 206 can also be used to transmit sensing signal 214, which can be used to sense one or more objects 200. Sensing signal 214 can be an RF signal.

[0081] The sensing signal 214 reflected from object 200 can be received by receiving beam 208 and receiving array 204.

[0082] The gNB 120 can be configured to process the received sensing signal 214 to sense the object 200. Sensing the object 200 may include detection, identification, authentication, location, or performing any other suitable functions related to the object 200.

[0083] Figure 2B Another network architecture, namely the sensor (NaS), is shown. Figure 2B In this example, the architecture provides a dual-station system. The first gNB 120_1 transmits sensing signals, and the second gNB 120_2 receives the sensing signals.

[0084] exist Figure 2B In the example, the first gNB 120_1 is configured to transmit a sensing signal 214 using a transmit beam 206. The sensing signal 214 may be an RF signal. The second gNB 120_1 is configured to receive the sensing signal 214 using a receive beam 208. At least some of the sensing signal 214 received by the second gNB 120_2 has been reflected from the object 200 and can therefore be used to sense the object 200. The second gNB 120_1 may be configured to process the received sensing signal 214 to sense the object 200.

[0085] Figure 2C The UE as a Sensor (UaS) architecture is illustrated. In Figure 2C In this architecture, a dual-station system is provided. In this example, gNB 120 transmits sensing signals, and UE 110 receives sensing signals.

[0086] exist Figure 2C In the example, UE 110 is configured to transmit sensing signal 214. Sensing signal 214 may be an RF signal. gNB 120 is configured to receive sensing signal 214 using receive beam 208. At least some of the sensing signal 214 received by gNB 120 has been reflected from object 200 and can therefore be used to sense object 200. gNB 120 may be configured to process the received sensing signal 214 to sense object 200.

[0087] In other systems, UE 110 can receive sensing signal 214 that has already been sent by gNB 120 or another entity. In this case, UE 110 can process the received signal to sense object 200.

[0088] exist Figures 2A to 2CIn the example, UE 110 and gNB 120, which transmit and / or receive sensing signal 214, can be referred to as transmitting nodes. Figures 2A to 2C In the examples, one transmitting sensing node and one receiving sensing node are shown in each example. In some examples, multiple transmitting sensing nodes and / or multiple receiving sensing nodes may exist. This allows multiple sensing signals 214 to be used to sense objects and can provide improved accuracy for sensing.

[0089] The sensing node that transmits sensing signal 214 has a known location. When UE 110 transmits sensing signal 214, the location of UE 110 is known in advance. The sensing node that transmits sensing signal 214 can be referred to as a reference node.

[0090] System architecture can also include Figures 2A to 2C Components not shown in the diagram. For example, the system may include a Sensing Management Function (SeMF). The SeMF may include network nodes for processing data from received sensing signals 214. For example, a sensing node receiving sensing signals 214 may send relevant data to the SeMF for processing. In some examples, the SeMF may also manage sensing signals 214.

[0091] SeMF can be a virtual entity. SeMF can be hosted by gNB 120, UE 110, or any other network entity. In some examples, SeMF can merge information from multiple sensing nodes to improve sensing performance.

[0092] Figures 3A to 3C Example methods that can be implemented in the examples disclosed herein are shown.

[0093] Figure 3A An example method that can be implemented by a sensing node is shown. The sensing node can be any node that receives sensing signals. The sensing node can be an end node (such as UE 110), a service node (such as gNB 120), or any other suitable type of node.

[0094] At box 300, the method includes sending an indication for supporting awareness-as-a-service (SaaS) awareness requirements. This indication may be sent to network nodes, such as service nodes or core network node 130. The indication may be sent to network nodes via one or more intermediate nodes, such as service nodes. Core network node 130 may be SeMF or any other suitable type of node.

[0095] The sent sensing requirements may include key performance indicators (KPIs) for determining the sensing group. In some examples, KPIs may include at least one of the following: range resolution; angular resolution; Doppler resolution; Doppler accuracy; angular accuracy; range accuracy; maximum observable range; maximum Doppler; probability of false alarms for a given radar cross-section; probability of false detections for a given radar cross-section; privacy level.

[0096] KPIs can be obtained using any suitable method. In some examples, KPIs can be derived from the physical parameters of the sensed signal. KPIs can be derived using machine learning (ML) or any other suitable process.

[0097] These KPIs can be functions of different parameters of the perceived signal, such as power, bandwidth, duration, and repetition interval. KPIs can be functions of the waveform itself and its associated ambiguity. KPIs can be derived from knowledge of these characteristics, theoretical derivation, empirical mapping functions, or machine learning methods.

[0098] At box 302, the method includes receiving configuration for a sensing group from a network node. When the sensing node is UE110, the serving node 120 (such as gNB 120) can send the configuration to the sensing node.

[0099] A sensing group comprises a group of nodes authorized to access a specific set of sensing signals. A sensing group includes multiple nodes, including at least one serving node. A sensing group may include at least one sensing node and at least one transmitting node. A sensing node is part of the sensing group and receives configuration for that sensing group.

[0100] When a perception group includes a service node, the service node can be configured as a perception node, a sending node, or both.

[0101] The configuration for a sensing group may include information that enables sensing nodes to perform sensing within the sensing group. In some examples, the configuration for a sensing group includes at least one of the following: an indication of sensing signals and their allocation; an indication of scrambling to be used for sensing signals; an indication of sensing sequences; an indication of nodes transmitting sensing signals; an indication of receiving nodes within the sensing group; and an indication of network nodes within the sensing group.

[0102] At box 304, the method includes performing sensing according to a configuration for the sensing group. Performing sensing may include performing the detection of one or more sensing signals and estimating one or more parameters based on the detected sensing signals. In some examples, performing sensing according to the configuration for the sensing group may include sending sensing information to network nodes. The information may be sent to network nodes via one or more intermediate nodes.

[0103] In some examples, the sensing node can be configured to send requests to the SaaS. The transmission of this request can trigger methods disclosed herein, such as... Figures 3A to 3B The method shown in the figure.

[0104] Figure 3B An example method that can be implemented by a transmitting node is shown. The transmitting node can be any node that transmits sensing signals. The transmitting node can be an end node (such as UE 110), a serving node (such as gNB 120), or any other suitable type of node.

[0105] The method includes: at box 310, receiving configuration for the sensing group.

[0106] At box 312, the method includes: sending a reference signal according to the configuration for the sensing group.

[0107] Figure 3C An example method that can be implemented by a network node is shown. The network node can be any node that establishes or controls the sensing group. The network node can be a core network node 130 (such as SeMF), or any other suitable type of node.

[0108] The method includes, at box 320, receiving an indication of sensing requirements to support SaaS. This indication can be received from the sensing node.

[0109] Network nodes can be configured to determine sensing groups based on received indications of sensing requirements. Sensing groups can be determined by identifying a group of nodes for which a sensing requirement can be satisfied.

[0110] In some examples, the group of nodes identified as meeting the sensing requirements is an existing group. In this example, the network node can determine that the existing group already meets the sensing requirements. In other examples, if one or more additional nodes are added to the sensing group, the network node can determine that the existing group can meet the sensing requirements.

[0111] In some examples, the group of nodes identified as meeting the sensing requirements is a new group. In this example, network nodes can identify groups of nodes that can form a sensing group and meet the sensing requirements.

[0112] At box 322, the method includes sending a configuration for the sensing group to one or more nodes included in the sensing group. This configuration can be sent to both the sensing nodes and the sending nodes.

[0113] In some examples, network nodes can also be configured to distribute sensing signals within a sensing group. The distribution of sensing signals within a sensing group is based at least in part on sensing requirements. The distribution of sensing signals determines characteristics such as bandwidth, length, beam, and time / frequency domain distribution. Sensing signals can be distributed to ensure that sensing requirements are met.

[0114] In some examples, network nodes can also be configured to select a scrambling method for a sensing group. This scrambling method may include a scrambling sequence and / or any other suitable information or parameters. The scrambling method may be selected at least in part based on the radar transmission characteristics of the sensing group. This scrambling method can be used to scramble sensing signals within the sensing group. Scrambling sensing signals can improve their security and help prevent interception by unauthorized entities.

[0115] Figure 4 A perceptual topology 400 is shown as an example that can be used to implement the examples of this disclosure.

[0116] In this example topology example, SeMF 404, first gNB 120_1, second gNB 120_2, and four UEs 110 are shown.

[0117] SeMF 404 can be configured to perform the functions of a network node. SeMF can be configured to perform methods, such as... Figure 3C The method shown.

[0118] SeMF 404 can be configured to receive indications of sensing needs from one or more sensing nodes. SeMF 404 can also be configured to establish and manage one or more sensing groups 402, and send the configuration of sensing groups 402 to the nodes within the respective sensing groups. SeMF 404 can be configured to manage the sensing signals 214 used for the respective sensing groups 402. For example, SeMF 404 can determine the scrambling used for the respective sensing signals 214.

[0119] The SeMF 404 can also be configured to perform other functions. For example, in some examples, the SeMF 404 can be configured to perform sensor fusion. Sensor fusion can include a combination of data from sensing nodes.

[0120] SeMF 404 can be located in a dedicated server or in another network node (such as gNB 120).

[0121] Sensing group 402 includes one or more receiving nodes authorized to perform radio sensing using sensing signals from one or more transmitting nodes. The sensing nodes may be UE 110 and / or gNB 120. The transmitting nodes may be UE 110 and / or gNB 120.

[0122] exist Figure 4 In the example, the first gNB 120_1 acts as a transmitting node. The first gNB 120_1 can act as a transmitting node for more than one sensing group 402. Figure 4 In the example, the first gNB 120_1 acts as a transmitting node for the first sensing group 402_1 and the second sensing group 402_2. That is, a single transmitting node can be part of multiple sensing groups 402. Different sensing groups 402 can include different sensing nodes.

[0123] The transmitting node is configured to transmit sensing signal 214. Sensing signal 214 is sent to sensing nodes in sensing group 402. Sensing signal 214 can be scrambled so that only sensing nodes within the sensing group can sense the transmitting signal 406 used for that sensing group 402. Each sensing node within the sensing group is already aware of the scrambling used for sensing signal 214, which is used for the corresponding group.

[0124] The sensing signal 214 assigned to a group will depend on the required sensing KPIs that have been instructed to the SeMF 404. The assignment of the sensing signal 214 determines characteristics such as bandwidth, length, beam, and time / frequency domain distribution.

[0125] The sensing signal 214 may include a scrambled standard reference signal. The scrambled standard reference signal may include a demodulation reference signal (DMRS), a phase tracking reference signal (PT-RS), a positioning reference signal (PRS), a sounding reference signal (SRS), a channel state information reference signal (CSI-RS), or any other suitable reference signal. The sensing signal 214 may use... Figure 8 or Figure 9 The method shown can be used to scramble the material, or it can be scrambled using any other suitable scrambling process.

[0126] exist Figure 4 In the example, two sensor groups 402 are shown. Any number of sensor groups 402 can be used in the examples of this disclosure.

[0127] exist Figure 4In the example, the first sensing group 402_1 includes four sensing nodes. In this example, the sensing nodes include the second gNB 120_2, the first UE 110_1, the second UE 110_2, and the third UE 110_3. The second sensing group 402_2 includes two sensing nodes 402_2. In this example, the sensing nodes include the third UE 110_3 and the fourth UE 110_4.

[0128] like Figure 4 As shown, a sensing node can be part of more than one sensing group 402. In this example, the third UE110 can be part of both the first sensing group 402_1 and the second sensing group 402_2. This allows the sensing node to access the sensing signal 214 for both the first sensing group 402_1 and the second sensing group 402_2. Being part of two or more sensing groups 402 can enhance the sensing capability of the sensing node.

[0129] Sensing group 402 can be dynamic, meaning that sensing nodes can be added or removed. The node can be added or removed during sensing operations or any other suitable time period.

[0130] Figure 5 Another example of a perceptual topology 400 that can be used to implement the examples of this disclosure is shown.

[0131] Figure 5 Example topology 400 and Figure 4 The topology is similar, however only one sensing group 402 is in Figure 5 It was provided in China. Figure 5 The topology also includes SeMF 404, first gNB 120_1, second gNB 120_2 and multiple UEs 110.

[0132] SeMF 404 is available Figure 4 It is shown in the diagram and can be configured to perform the functions described above.

[0133] In this example, sensing group 402 includes two gNBs 120_1 and 120_2 and three UEs 110. In this example, UE 110 is configured as a transmitting node. UE 110 can transmit sensing signal 214 according to the configuration of sensing group 402.

[0134] gNB 120_1 and 120_2 are configured to detect sensing signal 214 and perform sensing.

[0135] Figure 6 Another example method that can be used to implement the examples of this disclosure is shown. This method can use, for example... Figure 4 and Figure 5The topology 400 shown can be implemented by using any other suitable topology.

[0136] At box 600, the method includes: a SaaS request sent from one or more sensing nodes to SeMF 404 or any other suitable network node. The SaaS can be a request to use SaaS. The SaaS request may include indications of sensing needs to support the SaaS.

[0137] At box 602, SeMF 404 determines whether one or more sensing groups meet the sensing requirements indicated in the request. For example, SeMF 404 may determine whether a KPI requirement specified in the request is met by one or more sensing groups.

[0138] If it is determined that the sensing requirement is not met by one or more sensing groups, the method proceeds to block 604. At block 604, a new sensing group 402 is created by SeMF 404. SeMF 404 can also select a scrambling method and resource allocation for this sensing group 402 to enable the sensing requirement to be met.

[0139] After a new sensing group 402 has been created, the method proceeds to box 606. Similarly, if it is determined at box 602 that the sensing requirement is satisfied by one or more sensing groups, the method proceeds directly to box 606.

[0140] At box 606, the configuration for perception group 402 is sent to the perception nodes within perception group 402. The configuration can be sent to the perception nodes from one or more network nodes. When the perception node is a UE 110, a serving node (such as gNB 120) can send the configuration to the perception node. If the perception node is a serving node, a network node can send the configuration directly to the perception node.

[0141] The configuration may include information that enables the sensing node to perform sensing within the sensing group. The configuration may include a sensing signal 214, which will be used to indicate sensing group 402 and other nodes within sensing group 402. For example, it may indicate transmitting nodes within sensing group 402. The configuration may also include details about resource elements (REs) and the scrambling used for sensing signal 214.

[0142] At box 608, sensing signal 214 can be transmitted by a transmitting node. Sensing signal 214 is transmitted according to the configuration of sensing group 402. The transmitting node transmitting sensing signal 214 can be UE 110 or gNB 120.

[0143] At box 610, the sensing node detects the transmitted sensing signal 214. The sensing node can be configured to perform feature extraction on the detected sensing signal and / or perform local decisions.

[0144] At block 612, it is determined whether radar sensor fusion is enabled. If not enabled, the method proceeds to block 614, and detection and parameter estimation are performed by the sensing node.

[0145] If radar sensor fusion is not determined to be enabled, the method proceeds to block 616, and the sensing node sends sensing information to SeMF404, so that at block 618, SeMF can perform detection and parameter estimation.

[0146] Figure 7 An example signaling procedure that can be used to implement the examples of this disclosure is shown.

[0147] At box 700, the sensing node sends a request to use SaaS. In this example, the sensing node is sensing UE 100. The request is sent from the sensing node to the sending node. In this example, the sending node is gNB 120. If the sensing node is another gNB 120 and / or if the sending node is UE 110, the process may be different.

[0148] At box 702, a perception information request is sent from the sending node to the perception node. The perception information request can be for perception requirements used to support SaaS.

[0149] At box 704, the sensing node sends an indication of sensing needs to the sending node. After receiving the indication of sensing needs, the sending node can send the received indication of sensing needs to SeMF 404 at box 706. That is, in this case, the sensing node sends the indication of sensing needs to SeMF 404 via the sending node. In other examples, the sending node can send the indication of sensing needs directly to SeMF 404. For example, if the sensing node is a gNB, the sensing node can send information directly to SeMF 404 via the Xn / Ng interface.

[0150] At box 706, the sensing requirement is forwarded from the sending node to SeMF 404. At box 708, SeMF 404 performs association for the first sensing group 402. SeMF 404 can perform association by assigning sensing nodes to an existing sensing group 402 that meets the sensing requirement. SeMF 404 can also perform association by creating a new sensing group 402 that meets the sensing requirement and has one or more sets of sensing signals 214. In some examples, SeMF 404 can add additional sensing nodes to sensing group 402.

[0151] The sensing group 402 has one or more sets of sensing signals 214 associated with it. The sensing signals 214 can be selected to satisfy one or more sensing requirements.

[0152] At box 710, sensing reference information is sent from SeMF 404 to the sending node. The sensing reference information may include configuration for the first sensing group 402. This configuration may include information enabling the sensing node to perform sensing within the first sensing group 402.

[0153] At frame 712, the transmitting node transmits reference information to the UE 110.

[0154] At box 714, the second sensing node sends a request to use SaaS. In this example, the sensing node is a sensing gNB120. The request is sent from the sensing node to the sending node. In this example, the sending node is another gNB 120.

[0155] At box 706, the sensing request is forwarded from the sending node to SeMF 404. At box 718, SeMF 404 performs association for the second sensing group 402. The second sensing group 402 includes second sensing nodes. The association process for the second sensing group 402 can be the same as that used for the first sensing group 402.

[0156] At box 720, sensing reference information is sent from SeMF 404 to the sending node. The sensing reference information may include configuration for the second sensing group 402. This configuration may include information enabling the sensing node to perform sensing within the second sensing group 402.

[0157] At block 422, the transmitting node transmits reference signal 406 in the first sensing group. Sensing signal 214 can be transmitted according to the sensing reference signal indicated at block 708. Sensing UE 110 can then perform sensing based on the received sensing information.

[0158] At block 424, the transmitting node transmits reference signal 406 in the first sensing group. Transmit signal 214 can be transmitted according to the sensing reference information indicated at block 720. The sensing UE 120 can then perform sensing based on the received sensing information.

[0159] Figure 8 The illustrations show example scrambling processes that can be used to scramble the sensed signal 214 in some examples of this disclosure.

[0160] In this example, OFDM waveforms can be used for both communication and sensing signals.

[0161] In this example, scrambling is applied to the modulation symbols rather than the bits. Figure 8 The example scrambling process shown includes two steps. In implementations of this disclosure, one or both of these steps may be used.

[0162] exist Figure 8 In the example, the sensing signal 214 includes a reference signal. Reference signal Specifically designed for sensing. That is, the reference signal. It is used for perception, not for data.

[0163] In the first step of the scrambling process, from the group Reference signal Multiply by scrambling sequence . scrambling sequence Includes complex symbols with random phases. Scrambling sequence. It is kept confidential, so that it is known only to authorized sensing nodes.

[0164] Data and signaling channels in Figure 8 The middle is represented as Not used for sensing. The data and signaling channels were not multiplied by a scrambling sequence. Data and signaling channels It can be sent without scrambling.

[0165] In the second step of the scrambling process, the mapping function It is used in sensing signals 214 as well as data and signaling channels. Mapping function Reference signal It is applied after being multiplied by the scrambled sequence. Mapping function. It can be a confidential function, so that it is known only to authorized sensing nodes.

[0166] Mapping function Mapping sensing signals to resource elements In this context, the i-th symbol, j-th subcarrier, and n-th antenna or beam correspond to the n-th symbol, j-th subcarrier, and n-th antenna or beam in the OFDM frame. Mapping function. Change the position of the sensing signal 214. In this case, the mapping function... The change has been multiplied by the scrambling sequence The location of the sensed signal 214. This location can change with time, frequency, or space. The mapping function can be a bijective function.

[0167] The use of mapping functions allows for the use of a large number of scrambling sequences because the phase shift can be arbitrary and the number of subcarrier arrangements can be very large. The use of mapping functions also allows for greater flexibility in waveform shaping, which can optimize or improve the blur function.

[0168] The scrambled signal is then applied to the OFDM waveform and transmitted.

[0169] exist Figure 8 In the example, the sensing signal 214 includes a reference signal. The reference signal Dedicated to sensing, and data and command channels Shown separately. In some examples, sensing signal 214 may also include data. The sensing node receiving sensing signal 214 includes data that will require a key to decrypt.

[0170] Figure 9 Another example scrambling process that can be used to scramble the sensed signal 214 in some examples of this disclosure is illustrated schematically.

[0171] In this example, the FMCW waveform can be used for sensing signals. For instance, the FMCW pulse 900 can be multiplexed with the OFDM symbol 902. The FMCW pulse 900 can be time-division multiplexed with the OFDM symbol 902. The FMCW pulse 900 can be used for sensing, and the OFDM symbol 902 can be used for communication. The FMCW pulse 900 can be scrambled using a scrambling sequence known to the authorized sensing node.

[0172] Figure 9 An example sequence of scrambled FMCW pulses 900 multiplexed with OFDM symbol 902 is shown. The sequence of scrambled FMCW pulses 900 can be set within a coherent processing interval (CPI) or any other suitable interval. FMCW pulses 900 can be scrambled by assigning different start frequencies to different FMCW pulses 900. This is in Figure 9 The image shows that different FMCW pulses 900 start at different frequencies.

[0173] The FMCW pulse 900 is scrambled by assigning whether the FMCW pulse 900 has a positive or negative gradient. Figure 9 The image is shown in the figure, where some of the FMCW pulses 900 have positive gradients and some have negative gradients.

[0174] In this example, This is the duration of the FMCW pulse 900 or linear frequency modulation. (During the interval...) The instantaneous baseband frequency used for FMCW pulse 500 is determined by... Given, where It is the initial frequency, given bandwidth. .also, It is the gradient of the FMCW pulse 900. Indicate whether it is a positive or negative gradient, and It is a wrapper function to ensure that the instantaneous frequency meets the requirements. .

[0175] The scrambled sensing signal that was sent was then... , where A is a scalar value or a constant.

[0176] In these examples, the absolute gradient determines the detection performance without altering it. However, the initial frequency... and gradient One or both of the signals can be pseudo-randomly altered to provide scrambling.

[0177] In some examples, the sensing signal 214 and the scrambling applied to it can be selected by one or more sensing nodes. The sensing signal 214 and / or the scrambling applied to it can be selected to provide good sensing properties. That is, the sensing signal can be selected so that it can be easily detected and processed by other sensing nodes. For example, it can be selected to have a set of ambiguity functions. The ambiguity functions will vary depending on the allocated resources. Sensing nodes can compute ambiguity functions for a predefined set of pseudo-randomly scrambled sensing signals and can exclude signals that do not meet a specific criterion. The criterion can be sidelobe level or any other suitable criterion.

[0178] In the various examples disclosed herein, a random key can be used to generate scrambling sequences. The random key can be updated periodically.

[0179] If the scrambled sensing signal is used in a bi-station sensing system, or if multiple sensing nodes are collaborating, the random key must be shared among legitimate sensing nodes, but not shared with or available to any unintentional nodes or potential attackers. The random key can be distributed among legitimate sensing nodes using existing security mechanisms in place between gNB 120s (via Xn-AP) or between the UE 110 and its serving gNB 120 (e.g., via Radio Resource Control (RRC)). In some examples, external entities (such as Location Management Functions (LMFs)) may be involved in the generation and / or processing of the random key. In this case, mechanisms such as the New Radio Positioning Protocol (NRPPa) or the Long Term Evolution Positioning Protocol (LPP) can be used to distribute the key to the relevant sensing nodes.

[0180] Figure 10An example controller 1000 is illustrated. Controller 1000 may be provided within an entity such as UE 110, gNB 120, or any other suitable device. Controller 1000 may be provided within a sensing node, transmitting node, or network node. Controller 1000 may be implemented as a controller circuit system. Controller 1000 may be implemented solely in hardware, may have certain aspects in software (including firmware), or may be a combination of hardware and software (including firmware).

[0181] like Figure 10 As illustrated in the figure, the controller 1000 can be implemented using instructions that enable hardware functions, for example by using executable instructions of a computer program 1006 in a general-purpose or special-purpose processor 1002, which can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium (disk, memory, etc.) for execution by such processor 1002.

[0182] Processor 1002 is configured to read from and write to memory 1004. Processor 1002 may also include an output interface through which data and / or instructions are output by processor 1002 and an input interface through which data and / or instructions are input by processor 1002.

[0183] Memory 1004 stores a computer program 1006 comprising computer program instructions (computer program code) that control the operation of the device when loaded into processor 1002. The computer program instructions of computer program 1006 provide logic and routines that enable the device to perform the methods illustrated in the figures. Processor 1002 can load and execute computer program 1006 by reading from memory 1004.

[0184] The controller 1000 therefore includes: at least one processor 1002; and at least one memory 1004 storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor 1002, cause the sensing node to perform at least the following: Send a 300 instruction to support perception as a service perception requirements; Receive configuration for the sensing group from network node 302; and Perform 304 sensing based on the configuration used for the sensing group.

[0185] The controller 1000 therefore includes: at least one processor 1002; and at least one memory 1004, which stores instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor 1002, cause the transmitting node to perform at least the following: Receiver 310 for configuration of the sensing group; and 312 reference signals are sent according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

[0186] The controller 1000 therefore includes: at least one processor 1002; and at least one memory 1004, which stores instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor 1002, cause the network node to perform at least the following: Receive 320 instructions from the network node to support perception-as-a-service perception requirements; and Send 322 to one or more nodes included in the sensing group for the configuration of the sensing group.

[0187] The computer program 1006 can reach the device via any suitable delivery mechanism 1008. For example, the delivery mechanism 1008 can be a machine-readable medium, a computer-readable medium, a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, a computer program product, a memory device, a recording medium (such as a read-only optical disc (CD-ROM) or a digital versatile optical disc (DVD) or solid-state storage), or an article of manufacture that includes or tangibly embodies the computer program 1006. The delivery mechanism can be a signal configured to reliably transmit the computer program 1006. The device can propagate or transmit the computer program 1006 as a computer data signal.

[0188] Computer program 1006 may include computer program instructions for causing the sensing node to perform at least the following operations: Send a 300 instruction to support perception as a service perception requirements; Receive configuration for the sensing group from network node 302; and Perform 304 sensing based on the configuration used for the sensing group.

[0189] Computer program 1006 may include computer program instructions that cause the transmitting node to perform at least the following operations or to perform at least the following operations: Receiver 310 for configuration of the sensing group; and 312 reference signals are sent according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

[0190] Computer program 1006 may include computer program instructions for causing a network node to perform at least the following operations: Receive 320 instructions from the sensing node to support sensing requirements for sensing as a service; and Send 322 to one or more nodes included in the sensing group for the configuration of the sensing group.

[0191] Computer program instructions can be included in a computer program, a non-transitory computer-readable medium, a computer program product, or a machine-readable medium. In some, but not necessarily all, examples, computer program instructions can be distributed across more than one computer program.

[0192] Although memory 1004 is illustrated as a single component / circuit system, it can be implemented as one or more separate component / circuit systems, some or all of which may be integrated / removable and / or provide permanent / semi-permanent / dynamic / cached storage.

[0193] Although processor 1002 is illustrated as a single component / circuit system, it can be implemented as one or more separate component / circuit systems, some or all of which may be integrated / removable. Processor 1002 may be a single-core or multi-core processor.

[0194] References to “computer-readable storage medium,” “computer program product,” “tangible computer program,” or “controller,” “computer,” “processor,” etc., should be understood to encompass not only computers with different architectures (such as single-processor / multi-processor architectures and sequential (von Neumann) / parallel architectures) but also special-purpose circuits (such as field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), signal processing devices, and other processing circuitry systems). References to computer programs, instructions, code, etc., should be understood to encompass software or firmware for programmable processors, such as programmable content in hardware devices, whether instructions for processors or configuration settings for fixed-function devices, gate arrays, or programmable logic devices.

[0195] The term "circuit system" as used in this application may refer to one, more, or all of the following: (a) Implementations only in hardware circuit systems (such as implementations in analog-only and / or digital circuit systems), and (b) A combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as (if applicable): (i) The combination of (multiple) analog and / or digital hardware circuits with software / firmware, and (ii) Any portion of a hardware processor(s) having software (including (multiple) digital signal processors), software, and (multiple) memories, which work together to enable a device (such as a mobile phone or server) to perform various functions, and (c) (multiple) hardware circuits and / or (multiple) processors (such as (multiple) microprocessors or a portion thereof) that require software (e.g., firmware) to operate, but may be absent when operation is not required.

[0196] The definition of "circuit system" applies to all uses of the term in this application (including in any claim). As another example, as used in this application, the term "circuit system" also covers only the implementation of hardware circuitry or processors and their accompanying software and / or firmware. For example, and if applicable to a particular claim element, the term "circuit system" also covers baseband integrated circuits for mobile devices, or similar integrated circuits in servers, cellular network devices, or other computing or network devices.

[0197] The stages illustrated in the accompanying drawings may represent steps in the method and / or portions of code in computer program 1006. The illustration of a specific order of boxes does not necessarily imply a required or preferred order of the boxes, and the order and arrangement of the boxes may be adjusted. Furthermore, some blocks may be omitted.

[0198] The term "includes" is used in this document to mean inclusive rather than exclusive. That is, any reference to X including Y indicates that X may include only one Y, or may include more than one Y. If the intention is to use "includes" with an exclusive meaning, it will be made clear in the context by referring to "containing only one..." or by using "consisting of...".

[0199] In this specification, the terms “connection,” “coupling,” and “communication,” and their derivatives, mean operational connection / coupling / communication. It should be understood that any number or combination of intermediate components (including no intermediate components) may be present, i.e., to provide direct or indirect connection / coupling / communication. Any such intermediate component may include hardware and / or software components.

[0200] As used herein, the term "determine" (and its grammatical variations) can include, in particular, calculation, operation, processing, derivation, measurement, investigation, identification, lookup (e.g., searching in a table, database, or other data structure), ascertainment, etc. Furthermore, "determine" can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in memory), obtaining, etc. Additionally, "determine" can also include parsing, selecting, choosing, establishing, etc.

[0201] Various examples have been referenced in this description. Descriptions of features or functions associated with an example indicate which features or functions exist in that example. Terms such as “example,” “for example,” “may,” or “may” used in the text indicate (whether explicitly stated or not) that such a feature or function exists at least in the described example (whether or not it is described as an example), and that it may, but not necessarily, exist in some or all of the other examples. Therefore, “example,” “for example,” “may,” or “may” refers to a specific instance within the category of the example. An instance’s attribute may be an attribute of only that instance, an attribute of that category, or a subcategory of that instance that includes some, but not necessarily all, instances of that class. Thus, it is implicitly disclosed that features described with reference to one example but not another may, where possible, be used as part of a valid combination in other examples, but are not necessarily required to be used in those other examples.

[0202] Although examples have been described in the foregoing paragraphs with reference to various examples, it should be understood that modifications to the given examples may be implemented without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0203] The features described above may be used in combinations other than those explicitly described above.

[0204] Although the features have been described with reference to specific examples, those features may also be achievable by other features (whether or not they are described).

[0205] Although the features have been described with reference to a specific example, those features may also exist in other examples (whether or not they are described).

[0206] The terms “a,” “an,” or “that” are used in this document to have an inclusive rather than an exclusive meaning. That is, any reference to X including a / an / that Y indicates that X may contain only one Y, or may contain more than one Y, unless the context clearly indicates the opposite. If the use of “a,” “an,” or “that” with an exclusive meaning is intended, it will become clear in the context. In some cases, the use of “at least one” or “one or more” may be used to emphasize an inclusive meaning, but the absence of these terms should not be used to infer any exclusive meaning.

[0207] The presence of a feature (or combination of features) in a claim is a reference to that feature (or combination of features) itself, and also to a feature (equivalent feature) that achieves substantially the same technical effect. For example, equivalent features include features that are variations and achieve substantially the same result in substantially the same manner. For example, equivalent features include features that perform substantially the same function in substantially the same manner to achieve substantially the same result.

[0208] In this specification, various examples have been referenced using adjectives or adjective phrases to describe the characteristics of the examples. Such descriptions of characteristics associated with examples indicate that the characteristic exists exactly as described in some examples and substantially as described in others.

[0209] The foregoing description illustrates some examples of this disclosure; however, those skilled in the art will recognize possible alternative structural and methodological features that provide functionality equivalent to the specific examples of such structures and features described above, and which have been omitted from the foregoing description for the sake of brevity and clarity. Nevertheless, unless such alternative structural or methodological features are expressly excluded in the foregoing description of the examples of this disclosure, the foregoing description should be considered to implicitly include reference to such alternative structural or methodological features that provide equivalent functionality.

[0210] Despite the effort made in the foregoing specification to draw attention to those features deemed important, it should be understood that the applicant may seek protection by means of any patentable feature or combination thereof (whether emphasized or not) of the features mentioned above and / or shown in the figures.

Claims

1. A sensing node, the sensing node comprising components for the following operations: Send instructions to support perception-as-a-service perception requirements; Receive configuration for the perception group from the network node; and Sensing is performed according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

2. The sensing node of claim 1, wherein the sensing requirements include one or more key performance indicators for determining the sensing group.

3. The sensing node of claim 2, wherein the one or more key performance indicators include at least one of the following: Distance resolution; Angular resolution; Doppler resolution; Doppler accuracy; Angle accuracy; Distance accuracy; Maximum observable distance; Maximum Doppler; The probability of a false alarm for a given radar cross-section; The probability of false detection for a given radar cross-section; Privacy level.

4. The sensing node according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the configuration for the sensing group includes at least one of the following: Indicators of sensing signals and their allocation; Indicators for scrambling will be used to sense signals; Indication of the perceived sequence; Indication of the node emitting the sensing signal; Indication of the receiving node within the sensing group; Indications of network nodes within the sensing group.

5. The sensing node according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the sensing group comprises a plurality of nodes, the plurality of nodes including at least one service node.

6. The sensing node according to claim 5, wherein the service node is at least one of the following: Sensing nodes; Sending node; Sensing and transmitting nodes.

7. The sensing node according to any of the preceding claims, wherein performing sensing according to the configuration for the sensing group comprises: Perform the detection of one or more sensing signals, and estimate one or more parameters based on the detected sensing signals.

8. The sensing node according to any of the preceding claims, wherein performing sensing according to the configuration for the sensing group comprises: Send sensing information to network nodes.

9. The sensing node according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the component is configured to enable the transmission of a request for sensing as a service.

10. A method comprising: Send instructions to support perception-as-a-service perception requirements; Receive configuration for the perception group from the network node; as well as Sensing is performed according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

11. A computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a sensing node, cause the sensing node to perform: Send instructions to support perception-as-a-service perception requirements; Receive configuration for the perception group from the network node; and Sensing is performed according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

12. A transmitting node, the transmitting node comprising components for the following operations: Receive configuration for the sensing group; and Reference signals are transmitted according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

13. A method comprising: Receive configuration for the sensing group; as well as Reference signals are sent according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

14. A computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a transmitting node, cause the sensing node to perform: Receive configuration for the sensing group; and Reference signals are transmitted according to the configuration used for the sensing group.

15. A network node comprising components for the following operations: Receive instructions from the sensing node to support sensing requirements for sensing as a service; and Send configuration for a sensing group to one or more nodes, which are included in the sensing group.

16. The network node of claim 15, wherein the component is configured to: determine a sensing group based on the indication of the received sensing requirement by identifying a group of nodes for which the sensing requirement can be satisfied.

17. The network node according to any one of claims 15 to 16, wherein the group of nodes is an existing group.

18. The network node according to any one of claims 15 to 16, wherein the group of nodes is a new group.

19. The network node according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the component is configured to allocate sensing signals within the sensing group, and the allocation of sensing signals within the sensing group is at least partially based on the sensing requirements.

20. The network node according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the component is configured to: select a scrambling method for the sensing group, and the scrambling method is selected at least in part based on the radar transmission attributes of the sensing group.

21. A method comprising: Receive instructions from the sensing node to support sensing requirements for sensing as a service; as well as Send configuration for a sensing group to one or more nodes, which are included in the sensing group.

22. A computer program comprising instructions that, when executed by a network node, cause the network node to perform: Receive instructions from the sensing node to support sensing requirements for sensing as a service; and Send configuration for a sensing group to one or more nodes, which are included in the sensing group.

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