System and method for communication and inductive integration

Abstract

Systems and methods for integrating awareness and communications are provided. A first wireless communication node (e.g., RAN or NG-RAN Node 1) may receive a perceived configuration from an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) over a first next generation Radio Access Network Application Protocol (NGAP) message. The first wireless communication node may send a perception measurement report related to the perception configuration to the AMF.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure generally relates to wireless communication, including but not limited to systems and methods for sensing integration. Background Technology

[0002] The standards organization 3GPP is currently specifying a new radio interface called 5G New Radio (5G NR) and a next-generation packet core network (NG-CN or NGC). 5G NR will comprise three main components: the 5G Access Network (5G-AN), the 5G Core Network (5GC), and the User Equipment (UE). To facilitate the implementation of different data services and needs, the elements of the 5GC (also known as network functions) have been simplified, with some being software-based and others hardware-based, allowing these elements to be adapted as needed. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein are intended to address problems related to one or more issues raised in the prior art, and to provide additional features that will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Exemplary systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products are disclosed herein according to various embodiments. However, it should be understood that these embodiments are presented by way of example and are not restrictive, and that various modifications can be made to the disclosed embodiments by those skilled in the art who read this disclosure, while still remaining within the scope of this disclosure.

[0004] At least one aspect relates to a system, method, apparatus, or computer-readable medium in which a first wireless communication node (e.g., a radio access network (RAN), a RAN node, or NG-RAN node 1) receives a sensing configuration from an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) via a first Next Generation Radio Access Network Application Protocol (NGAP) message. The first wireless communication node can send a sensing measurement report related to the sensing configuration (e.g., determined / acquired / generated based on the sensing configuration) to the AMF. This disclosure provides a technical solution for deploying a sensing function in a network, specifically for cases where the sensing function resides in the core network and the RAN participates in sensing. The AMF can assist (e.g., to the RAN node) in forwarding the sensing configuration and can report measurement results between the RAN node and the sensing function (SF).

[0005] In some embodiments, the sensing configuration may include indications of at least one of the following: a sensing measurement identifier (ID); a sensing mode; the sensing area range; at least one node participating in the sensing measurement; the behavior of the at least one node; timing or triggering information for sending a sensing measurement report; a sensing signal; a request for a first wireless communication node to configure the sensing signal; specifications or requirements for the sensing measurement report; metrics to be collected in the sensing measurement report; quality of service (QoS) requirements associated with the sensing measurement; timing information associated with the sensing measurement; or sensing measurement results to be reported. This disclosure specifies details that may be included in the sensing configuration. This information may be used by the RAN node or UE to send sensing signals and / or collect sensing results.

[0006] In some embodiments, a perception measurement report may include an indication of at least one of the following: a perception measurement identifier (ID); at least one node involved in the perception measurement; the perception measurement result to be reported; or the area involved in the perception measurement. This disclosure specifies information that may be included in the perception report and / or used by SF for analysis.

[0007] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node can send an indication to the AMF via a second NGAP message to indicate the purpose of the sensing measurement report, which may be for positioning or sensing. Positioning results can be reused for sensing functions. This indication tells / notifies the AMF where to forward the positioning report, for example, to the LMF or SF. The LMF or SF can then determine whether the report can be used for its own functions.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node may send a sensing configuration response to the AMF in response to a first NGAP message (and / or sensing configuration). The sensing configuration response can be used to send an acknowledgment of / on the sensing configuration. Through this response, the SF can know whether the configuration has been successfully received / accepted / configured / implemented. The sensing configuration response may include an indication of at least one of the following: a sensing measurement identifier (ID); a configuration status; at least one node successfully configured with the sensing configuration; at least one node participating in the sensing measurement; timing information associated with the sensing measurement; a sensing signal; a sensing measurement result to be reported; or a cause value (e.g., indicating a cause or reason for the unsuccessful configuration or implementation of the sensing configuration) if the sensing configuration is not successfully configured or implemented. This information may be included in the configuration response message to notify the SF of the (configuration / implementation) status of the sensing configuration.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node can receive sensing activation information related to the sensing function from the AMF via a third NGAP message. The sensing activation information can be used to activate the sensing function. It should be noted that the configuration message may not be the message that triggers the transmission function, because the RAN node may only store the sensing configuration without performing other operations. The sensing activation message (also called sensing activation information) can trigger the sensing function on the RAN side. The sensing activation information may include an indication of at least one of the following: a sensing measurement identifier (ID); at least one node to be activated for sensing measurements; an activation time window; timing or triggering information for sending sensing measurement reports; or an indication of how to report sensing measurement reports. The sensing activation information may be included in an activation message that describes how to activate the sensing function on the RAN side.

[0010] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node may send a sense activation response to the AMF in response to a third NGAP message (and / or sense activation information). The sense activation message may include an acknowledgment regarding / for / use of sense activation. The sense activation response may include an indication of at least one of the following: a sense measurement identifier (ID); an activation status; successful activation of at least one node for sense measurement; at least one node participating in the sense measurement; or a reason value in the event that the sense activation information is configured or implemented unsuccessfully. This reason value may include, describe, or indicate the reason why the sense configuration is configured or implemented unsuccessfully. The sense activation information may be included in the activation response message to notify the SF of the activation status.

[0011] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node can receive a sensing result request related to sensing configuration from the AMF via a fourth NGAP message. In response to the fourth NGAP message (and / or the sensing result request), the first wireless communication node can send a sensing measurement response to the AMF. This disclosure provides a method for reporting sensing reports. Reports may not be proactively reported to the SF, meaning the SF can request a report, such that a sensing result request message may need to be sent by the SF, and a response may be received by the SF.

[0012] In some embodiments, a first wireless communication node may send a sensing configuration to a second wireless communication node in a first message. The first wireless communication node may receive a sensing configuration response from the second wireless communication node in response to the first message (and / or the sensing configuration). This disclosure provides a technical solution for a sensing process between multiple NG-RAN nodes. Various scenarios / architectures are possible, including the following examples: Scenario 1: Both NG-RAN nodes can be base stations; Scenario 2: NG-RAN node 1 can be a gNB-CU, and NG-RAN node 2 can be a gNB-DU. In these cases, all NG-RAN nodes are involved in sensing functions.

[0013] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node may send sensing activation information related to sensing configuration to the second wireless communication node in a second message. The first wireless communication node may receive a sensing activation response from the second wireless communication node in response to the second message (and / or sensing activation information). The first wireless communication node or NG-RAN node 1 may, for example, trigger the sensing function in NG-RAN node 2 in this manner.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node may send a sensing result request related to sensing configuration to the second wireless communication node in a third message. The first wireless communication node may receive a sensing measurement response from the second wireless communication node in response to the third message (and / or the sensing result request). The first wireless communication node or NG-RAN node 1 may request sensing reports collected in NG-RAN node 2 (or the second wireless communication node).

[0015] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node and the second wireless communication node can be two different base stations. In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node can be a gNodeB centralized unit (gNB-CU) and the second wireless communication node can be a gNodeB distributed unit (gNB-DU), for example, they may belong to the same gNB or different gNBs.

[0016] In some embodiments, a first wireless communication node may receive auxiliary information from an AMF via a fifth NGAP message. The first wireless communication node may transmit this auxiliary information to a second wireless communication node according to a sensing configuration. The SF may have some auxiliary information for the network to perform sensing functions. This disclosure describes a process by which the AMF forwards sensing auxiliary information from the SF to an NG-RAN node. The auxiliary information may include indications of at least one of the following: a sensing measurement identifier (ID); additional auxiliary information for sensing or positioning; when the first wireless communication node starts, stops, or pauses broadcasting; at least one cell for broadcasting; the priority of the broadcast; or sensing-related system information. The sensing auxiliary information may be used by the NG-RAN node or the UE to perform sensing.

[0017] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node can receive feedback information from the second wireless communication node in response to the auxiliary information. The first wireless communication node can send the feedback information to the AMF via a sixth NGAP message. The network can provide feedback regarding the auxiliary information. The feedback information may include an indication of at least one of the following: a sense measurement identifier (ID); feedback regarding broadcast-related system information; at least one cell associated with the feedback information; or a reason value in the event that the auxiliary information configuration or implementation is unsuccessful. This information can be included in the feedback regarding the auxiliary information, which allows the SF to know which auxiliary information has been successfully considered by the network and / or the UE.

[0018] In some embodiments, the first NGAP message, the second NGAP message, the third NGAP message, the fourth NGAP message, the fifth NGAP message, and / or the sixth NGAP message may include at least one of the following: a downlink user equipment (UE) associated New Radio Positioning Protocol A (NRPPA) transport message; a downlink non-UE associated NRPPA transport message; a sensing configuration information message; a sensing configuration response message; an activation information message; a sensing activation response message; a sensing result request message; a sensing measurement response message; an auxiliary information control message; or an auxiliary information feedback message.

[0019] In some embodiments, the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) can send a sensing configuration to a first wireless communication node (e.g., RAN or NG-RAN node 1) via a first Next Generation Radio Access Network Application Protocol (NGAP) message. The AMF can receive sensing measurement reports related to the sensing configuration from the first wireless communication node. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Various exemplary embodiments of the present technical solution are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. These drawings are provided for illustrative purposes only and describe only exemplary embodiments of the present technical solution to facilitate the reader's understanding of the present technical solution. Therefore, these drawings should not be considered as limitations on the breadth, scope, or applicability of the present technical solution. It should be noted that these drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale for clarity and ease of explanation.

[0021] Figure 1 An example cellular communication network is shown according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, in which the technologies disclosed herein may be implemented; Figure 2 Block diagrams of example base stations and user equipment according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown; Figure 3 A block diagram illustrating an example deployment of sensing functionality according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 4A block diagram illustrating an example deployment of sensing functionality according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 5 A block diagram illustrating an example deployment of sensing functionality according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 6 A block diagram illustrating an example deployment of sensing functionality according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 7 A sequence diagram of an example sensory integration system / process according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 8 A sequence diagram of an example sensory integration system / process according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 9 A sequence diagram of an example sensory integration system / process according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown; Figure 10 Sequence diagrams of an example synesthetic system / process according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are shown; and Figure 11 A flowchart of an example method for sensor integration according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0022] 1. Mobile communication technology and environment Figure 1 An example wireless communication network and / or system 100 is illustrated, in which the technologies disclosed herein may be implemented according to embodiments of the present disclosure. In the following discussion, wireless communication network 100 (also referred to as wireless communication network system 100, wireless communication environment 100) can be any wireless network, such as a cellular network or a narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) network, and is referred to herein as "network 100". This example network 100 includes: a base station 102 (hereinafter referred to as "BS 102"; also referred to as a wireless communication node) and a user equipment 104 (hereinafter referred to as "UE 104"; also referred to as a wireless communication device), which can communicate with each other via a communication link 110 (e.g., a wireless communication channel); and cell clusters 126, 130, 132, 134, 136, 138, and 140 covering a geographic area 101. Figure 1 In this context, BS 102 and UE 104 are contained within their respective geographical boundaries in cell 126. Each of the other cells 130, 132, 134, 136, 138, and 140 may include at least one base station that operates with its allocated bandwidth to provide adequate radio coverage to its target users.

[0023] For example, BS 102 can operate with allocated channel transmission bandwidth to provide sufficient coverage to UE 104. BS 102 and UE 104 can communicate via downlink radio frame 118 and uplink radio frame 124, respectively. Each radio frame 118 / 124 can be further divided into subframes 120 / 127, which may include data symbols 122 / 128. In this disclosure, BS 102 and UE 104 are described herein as non-limiting examples of "communication nodes," which generally practice the methods disclosed herein. According to various embodiments of this technical solution, such communication nodes are capable of wireless and / or wired communication.

[0024] Figure 2 A block diagram of an example wireless communication system 200 for transmitting and receiving wireless communication signals (e.g., OFDM / OFDMA signals) according to some embodiments of the present technical solution is shown. System 200 may include components and elements configured to support known or conventional operating characteristics, which do not need to be described in detail herein. In one exemplary embodiment, system 200 can be used in the aforementioned wireless communication environments (such as...) Figure 1 In a wireless communication environment 100, data symbols are transmitted (e.g., transmitted and received).

[0025] System 200 typically includes a base station 202 (hereinafter referred to as "BS 202") and a user equipment 204 (hereinafter referred to as "UE 204"). BS 202 includes a BS (Base Station) transceiver module 210, a BS antenna 212, a BS processor module 214, a BS memory module 216, and a network communication module 218, each module being coupled and interconnected with each other as needed via a data communication bus 220. UE 204 includes a UE (User Equipment) transceiver module 230, a UE antenna 232, a UE memory module 234, and a UE processor module 236, each module being coupled and interconnected with each other as needed via a data communication bus 240. BS 202 communicates with UE 204 via a communication channel 250, which can be any wireless channel or other medium suitable for data transmission as described herein.

[0026] As will be understood by those skilled in the art, System 200, in addition to Figure 2In addition to the modules shown herein, any number of other modules may be included. Those skilled in the art will understand that various exemplary blocks, modules, circuits, and processing logic associated with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in hardware, computer-readable software, firmware, or any practical combination thereof. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability and compatibility of hardware, firmware, and software, various exemplary components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps are generally described in terms of their functionality. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware, firmware, or software can depend on the specific application and design constraints imposed on the system as a whole. Those skilled in the art can implement such functionality in a suitable manner for each specific application, but such implementation decisions should not be construed as limiting the scope of this disclosure.

[0027] According to some embodiments, the UE transceiver 230 may be referred to herein as an "uplink" transceiver 230, which includes a radio frequency (RF) transmitter and an RF receiver, each containing circuitry coupled to antenna 232. Alternatively, a duplex switch (not shown) may couple the uplink transmitter or receiver to the uplink antenna in a time-division duplex manner. Similarly, according to some embodiments, the BS transceiver 210 may be referred to herein as a "downlink" transceiver 210, which includes an RF transmitter and an RF receiver, each containing circuitry coupled to antenna 212. A downlink duplex switch may alternatively couple the downlink transmitter or receiver to downlink antenna 212 in a time-division duplex manner. The operation of the two transceiver modules 210 and 230 (also referred to as transceivers 210 and 230, base transceiver 210 and UE transceiver 230) can be time-coordinated such that while the uplink receiver circuitry is coupled to the uplink antenna 232 to receive transmissions via the wireless transmission link 250, the downlink transmitter is coupled to the downlink antenna 212. Conversely, the operation of the two transceivers 210 and 230 can be time-coordinated such that while the downlink receiver is coupled to the downlink antenna 212 to receive transmissions via the wireless transmission link 250, the uplink transmitter is coupled to the uplink antenna 232. In some embodiments, there is tight time synchronization and a minimum guard time between duplex direction changes.

[0028] UE transceiver 230 and base transceiver 210 are configured to communicate via wireless data communication link 250 and cooperate with appropriately configured RF antenna arrangements 212 / 232, which are capable of supporting specific wireless communication protocols and modulation schemes. In some exemplary embodiments, UE transceiver 210 and base transceiver 210 are configured to support industry standards such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) and emerging 5G standards. However, it should be understood that this disclosure is not necessarily limited in application to specific standards and associated protocols. Rather, UE transceiver 230 and base transceiver 210 may be configured to support alternative or additional wireless data communication protocols (including future standards or variations thereof).

[0029] According to various embodiments, BS 202 may be, for example, an evolved Node B (eNB), a serving eNB, a target eNB, a femto station, or a pico station. In some embodiments, UE 204 may be implemented as various types of user equipment, such as mobile phones, smartphones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), tablets, laptops, wearable computing devices, etc. Processor modules 214 and 236 may be implemented or realized as general-purpose processors, content-addressable memory, digital signal processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), any suitable programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof, designed to perform the functions described herein. In this way, the processor may be implemented as a microprocessor, a controller, a microcontroller, a state machine, etc. The processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a digital signal processor and a microprocessor, a combination of multiple microprocessors, a combination of one or more microprocessors combined with a digital signal processor core, or any other combination of such configurations.

[0030] Furthermore, the steps of the methods or algorithms described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be directly embodied in hardware, firmware, software modules executed by processor modules 214 and 236 respectively, or any actual combination thereof. Memory modules 216 and 234 can be implemented as RAM memory, flash memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, registers, hard disk, removable disk, CD-ROM, or any other form of storage medium known in the art. In this regard, memory modules 216 and 234 can be coupled to processor modules 210 and 230 respectively, such that processor modules 210 and 230 can read information from and write information to memory modules 216 and 234 respectively. Memory modules 216 and 234 can also be integrated into their respective processor modules 210 and 230. In some embodiments, memory modules 216 and 234 may each include a cache processor for storing temporary variables or other intermediate information during the execution of instructions executed by processor modules 210 and 230 respectively. Memory modules 216 and 234 may each include non-volatile memory for storing instructions executed by processor modules 210 and 230, respectively.

[0031] Network communication module 218 typically represents the hardware, software, firmware, processing logic, and / or other components of base station 202 that enable base transceiver 210 to communicate bidirectionally with other network components and communication nodes configured to communicate with base station 202. For example, network communication module 218 may be configured to support Internet or WiMAX services. In a typical deployment, without limitation, network communication module 218 provides an 802.3 Ethernet interface, enabling base transceiver 210 to communicate with conventional Ethernet-based computer networks. In this way, network communication module 218 may include a physical interface for connecting to a computer network (e.g., a Mobile Switching Center (MSC)). The terms “configured for,” “configured to,” and variations thereof, used herein with respect to a specified operation or function, refer to a device, component, circuit, structure, machine, signal, etc., that is physically constructed, programmed, formatted, and / or arranged to perform that specified operation or function.

[0032] The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model (referred to herein as the "OSI model") is a conceptual and logical layout that defines the network communications used when systems (e.g., wireless communication devices, wireless communication nodes) open themselves to interconnect and communicate with other systems. The model is decomposed into seven sub-components or layers, each representing a set of concepts that provide services to the layers above and below it. The OSI model also defines a logical network and efficiently describes computer packet transmission using different layer protocols. The OSI model may also be referred to as the seven-layer OSI model or the seven-layer model. In some embodiments, the first layer may be the physical layer. In some embodiments, the second layer may be the media access control (MAC) layer. In some embodiments, the third layer may be the radio link control (RLC) layer. In some embodiments, the fourth layer may be the packet data convergence protocol (PDCP) layer. In some embodiments, the fifth layer may be the radio resource control (RRC) layer. In some embodiments, the sixth layer may be the non-access stratum (NAS) layer or the Internet Protocol (IP) layer, while the seventh layer is other layers.

[0033] Various exemplary embodiments of the present technical solution are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings to enable those skilled in the art to implement and use the present technical solution. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art, upon reading this disclosure, that various changes or modifications can be made to the examples described herein without departing from the scope of the present technical solution. Therefore, the present technical solution is not limited to the exemplary embodiments and applications described and illustrated herein. Furthermore, the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the methods disclosed herein is merely exemplary. Based on design preferences, the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the disclosed methods or processes can be rearranged without departing from the scope of the present technical solution. Therefore, those skilled in the art will understand that the methods and techniques disclosed herein present exemplary sequences of various steps or actions, and unless otherwise expressly stated, the present technical solution is not limited to the presented specific order or hierarchy.

[0034] 2. Systems and methods for synesthetic integration Communication systems can play a role in assisting sensing functions, thereby providing more efficient and accurate services for upcoming applications, especially in the upcoming 6G era, which will introduce more services that meet human needs. However, the exact method for integrating sensing functions into communication systems has not yet been determined. This disclosure addresses this problem / challenge by proposing a technical solution for seamlessly integrating sensing functions into telecommunications architecture.

[0035] 5G communication systems can be built upon the connectivity of different network components. These components can interact with each other through network interfaces. A 5G network architecture can include a core network (CN) and / or a radio access network (RAN). The core network (CN) can include different components performing various functions, including the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF). The AMF can communicate with the NG-RAN via the Next Generation Radio Access Network Application Protocol (NGAP) interface. Two NG-RAN nodes can communicate with each other via the Xn Application Protocol (XnAP) interface. When a UE connects to the network, it can communicate with the serving NG-RAN node via the Uu interface. Another function, called the Location Management Function (LMF), may exist in the core network. Since the LMF does not have an interface with the NG-RAN, it can interact with NG-RAN nodes through the AMF.

[0036] Location functionality can be controlled / managed by the LMF. Interactions between the LMF and NG-RAN nodes can be performed by the AMF. Information exchanged between the LMF and NG-RAN nodes can be transparent to the AMF.

[0037] AMF assists in transmitting location-related information to LMF and NG-RAN, which can be achieved through various procedures / methods / mechanisms, such as: downlink UE-associated NRPPA transport; uplink UE-associated NRPPA transport; downlink non-UE-associated NRPPA transport; and / or uplink non-UE-associated NRPPA transport.

[0038] In the accompanying drawings of this disclosure, the Sensing Function (SF) can be deployed in the 5GC (e.g., the core network). This deployment can exist in various architectures, such as: SF can be deployed in LMF. SF can interact with NG-RAN nodes via AMF by reusing the positioning procedure. Figure 3 An example block diagram is shown illustrating the deployment of sensing functionality with LMF according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0039] SF can be deployed separately and does not depend on LMF. In this case, SF can interact with NG-RAN by using new procedures through AMF or by reusing the localization procedure through LMF. Figure 4 An example block diagram is shown illustrating the separate deployment of sensing functionality and LMF according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0040] It should be noted that other types of deployments also exist, which may include at least one of the following: The SF can be deployed within the AMF, which may not require or involve interaction between the SF and the AMF. In this case, the processes between the AMF and the SF described in the corresponding figures of all embodiments can be ignored. Figure 5 An example block diagram is shown illustrating the deployment of sensing functionality with AMF according to some embodiments of this disclosure.

[0041] SF can be deployed in NG-RAN, which may not require or involve interaction between NG-RAN and AMF. Figure 6 Example block diagrams are shown illustrating the deployment of sensing functionality with NG-RAN according to some embodiments of this disclosure. In this case, the processes between NG-RAN and SF (via AMF) described in the corresponding figures of all implementation examples can be omitted.

[0042] Implementation Example 1: Basic Perception Process Involving NG-RAN Nodes and UEs Figure 7 An example sequence diagram of an example sensing integration according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. In this embodiment, both the NG-RAN node and (one or more) UEs can participate in the sensing function. This embodiment focuses on the processes in a standalone architecture. The processes in a separate central unit (CU) and distributed unit (DU) architecture will be described in Embodiment Example 2, in which the base station can be separated into gNB-CU and gNB-DU.

[0043] Step 1: The Sense Function (SF) can send the Sense configuration to the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF).

[0044] Step 2: The AMF can forward the sensing configuration to the NG-RAN node without interpreting or altering any information. The message carrying / transmitting this sensing configuration information can reuse the localization procedure on the Next Generation Radio Access Network Application Protocol (NGAP), such as the downlink UE-associated NRPPA transport and the downlink non-UE-associated NRPPA transport. Alternatively, a new NGAP message (e.g., a sensing configuration information message) can be defined for the AMF to transmit the sensing configuration to the NG-RAN node. This sensing configuration can be a configuration list. Each list may include at least one of the following: a sensing measurement identifier (ID); a sensing mode; a sensing area range; at least one node participating in the sensing measurement; the behavior of the at least one node; timing or triggering information for sending a sensing measurement report; a sensing signal; a request for a first wireless communication node to configure the sensing signal; specifications or requirements for the sensing measurement report; metrics to be collected for the sensing measurement report; quality of service (QoS) requirements associated with the sensing measurement; timing information associated with the sensing measurement; or the sensing measurement result to be reported. The sensing measurement ID uniquely identifies the sensing measurement session. The sensing mode indicates how the sensing function is performed between one or more NG-RAN nodes and one or more UEs, for example, the NG-RAN node itself sends and receives sensing signals, or the NG-RAN node sends sensing signals and the UE receives sensing signals. The sensing area range may include a list of cell IDs, a list of Public Land Mobile Networks (PLMNs), or a timing lead (TA). The sensing function can be performed within the area indicated by this information. Nodes participating in the sensing process can be identified or indicated by gNB ID, UE ID, and / or TRP ID. The behavior of nodes participating in sensing can be sending or receiving sensing signals. The perception reporting method can be / including periodic reporting, event-based reporting, or one-time reporting. The perception signal can be a Channel State Information Reference Signal (CSI-RS) or a Tracking Reference Signal (TRS). The request can be a request to configure a perception reference signal for an NG-RAN node. Requirements for perception results can include perception accuracy, delay, or confidence level. Metrics to be collected in the perception results (i.e., metrics to be collected for perception measurement reporting) can include the distance or velocity of the target object. Quality of Service (QoS) requirements can be QoS requirements for the perception function. The perception duration can include a start time or an end time. The perception results to be reported (also known as perception measurement results) can be the Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) of the perception signal, the angle, distance, and / or velocity of the object.

[0045] Step 3: If one or more UEs participate in the perception process based on the perception configuration received by the NG-RAN node, the NG-RAN node can send the relevant perception configuration to the corresponding (one or more) UEs.

[0046] Step 4: The UE can send a configuration response to the NG-RAN node.

[0047] Step 5: The NG-RAN node can send a Sensing Configuration Response to the AMF. This response can reuse a localization procedure (e.g., a downlink UE-associated NRPPA transport, a downlink non-UE-associated NRPPA transport) or a new NGAP message (e.g., a Sensing Configuration Response message). The Sensing Configuration Response can include at least one of the following: a Sensing Measurement Identifier (ID); a configuration status; at least one node that has successfully configured the sensing configuration; at least one node participating in the sensing measurement; timing information associated with the sensing measurement; a sensing signal; a sensing measurement result to be reported; or, a (failure) reason value in the event that the sensing configuration or implementation is unsuccessful. The Sensing Measurement ID can uniquely identify the sensing measurement session. The configuration status can be successful, failed, or paused. The list of IDs of nodes that have successfully configured the sensing configuration can be gNB ID, UE ID, or TRP ID. The sensing duration can include a start time or an end time. The sensing reference signal configured by the NG-RAN node can be CSI-RS or TRS. The sensing results to be reported can be the RSRP of the sensing signal, the angle, distance, and / or velocity of the object.

[0048] Step 6: The AMF can send a perception configuration response to the SF.

[0049] Step 7: SF can send a perception activation message to AMF.

[0050] Step 8: The AMF can forward the sense activation information to the NG-RAN node without interpreting or altering any information. The message carrying the sense activation information can reuse the localization procedure on the NGAP, such as a downlink UE-associated NRPPA transport or a downlink non-UE-associated NRPPA transport. Alternatively, a new NGAP message (e.g., an activation information message) can be defined for the AMF to transmit the sense configuration to the NG-RAN node. Sense activation can be an activation list. Each item in the list can include at least one of the following: a sense measurement identifier (ID); at least one node to be activated for sense measurement; an activation time window; timing or triggering information for sending sense measurement reports; or instructions on how to report sense measurement reports. The sense measurement ID can uniquely identify the sense measurement session. Nodes to be activated for sense functions can be identified using the gNB ID, UE ID, or TRP ID. The activation duration can be the duration of the active state. The timing information for sending perception measurement reports can be the start or end time of the perception result report. Instructions on how to report perception results can be single-report, event-based reporting, or periodic reporting. Items included in the perception activation message can also be included in the perception configuration message, and vice versa.

[0051] Step 9: If one or more UEs participate in the perception process according to the perception configuration received by the NG-RAN node, the NG-RAN node can send relevant perception activation information to the corresponding (one or more) UEs.

[0052] Step 10: The UE can send an activation response to the NG-RAN node.

[0053] Step 11: The NG-RAN node can send a Sensing Activation Response to the AMF. This response can reuse a localization procedure (e.g., a downlink UE-associated NRPPA transport, a downlink non-UE-associated NRPPA transport) or use a new NGAP message (e.g., a Sensing Activation Response message). The Sensing Activation Response can include at least one of the following: a Sensing Measurement Identifier (ID); an activation state; at least one node (e.g., NG-RAN and / or UE) that has successfully activated the sensing measurement; at least one node participating in the sensing measurement; or a (failure) reason value in the event that the sensing activation information configuration or implementation is unsuccessful. The Sensing Measurement ID can uniquely identify the sensing measurement session. The activation state can be successful, failed, or suspended.

[0054] Step 12: The AMF can send a sensing activation response to the SF.

[0055] Step 13: SF can send a sensing result request (i.e., a sensing measurement request) to AMF.

[0056] Step 14: The AMF can send a perception result request to the NG-RAN node, which can reuse one or more localization procedures (e.g., downlink UE-associated NRPPA transport, downlink non-UE-associated NRPPA transport) and / or use one or more new NGAP messages (e.g., perception result request message).

[0057] Step 15: NG-RAN nodes can request sensing results from participating UEs (one or more).

[0058] Step 16: The UE can send a sensing measurement response to the NG-RAN node.

[0059] Step 17: The NG-RAN node can send a sensing measurement response to the AMF. This response can reuse a localization procedure (e.g., a downlink UE-associated NRPPA transport, a downlink non-UE-associated NRPPA transport) and / or use a new NGAP message (e.g., a sensing measurement response message). The sensing measurement response can include at least one of the following: a sensing measurement ID, the ID of the entity participating in the sensing function (e.g., gNB ID, UE ID, TRP ID), a sensing measurement result, or an indication of the sensing measurement status. The sensing measurement ID can uniquely identify the sensing measurement session. The ID of the entity participating in the sensing function can be a gNB ID, UE ID, or TRP ID. The indication of the sensing measurement status can be failure, busy, or paused.

[0060] Step 18: The AMF can forward the sensing measurement response to the SF.

[0061] Step 19: The UE can send a perception measurement report to the NG-RAN node based on a request message or by taking the initiative.

[0062] Step 20: The NG-RAN node may send the sensing results (i.e., sensing measurement reports) collected from the NG-RAN node and / or participating (one or more) UEs to the AMF. The report may include at least one of the following: sensing measurement ID, the node participating in the sensing function, the measurement results, or the area range where the sensing function is performed. The node participating in the sensing function may be identified by gNBID, UE ID, or TRP ID. The measurement results may be the RSRP of the sensed signal, the angle, distance, or velocity of an object. The area range where the sensing function is performed may be a cell list, TA, or (one or more) PLMN list. Where the sensing function is performed using (one or more) positioning procedures, an indication of the purpose of the measurement report, along with the measurement report, may be sent from the NG-RAN node to the AMF via (e.g., for positioning or for sensing) NGAP.

[0063] Step 21: AMF can forward / send the perception measurement report to SF.

[0064] Before the awareness function is initiated, the AMF can configure the user / UE permission for awareness to the NG-RAN node (e.g., via UE subscription information) during procedures such as UE context establishment or PDU session establishment, so that the NG-RAN node can select UEs with an awareness subscription. The awareness user permission can be configured, for example, via a PLMN list. The NG-RAN node can select UEs from the PLMN list to perform the awareness function.

[0065] Current communication standards do not support configuring / activating sensing functions or collecting sensing results. This implementation example describes a sensing configuration / activation process based on a specific network architecture, as well as the collection of results after activation. Given the significant similarities between sensing and localization tasks, and the shared requirement to transmit / receive communication signals to assist in establishing the position or velocity of an object, this implementation example includes options for reusing localization procedures for sensing functions, while also proposing new procedures. The decision to reuse existing procedures or define new ones depends on the trade-off between signaling overhead and operational complexity. Both approaches offer significant advantages.

[0066] Implementation Example 2: Basic sensing process involving multiple NG-RAN nodes.

[0067] Figure 8 An example sequence diagram of sensor integration according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. It should be noted that the interaction between SF and NG-RAN node 1 in this embodiment can be the same as described in embodiment 1, which will not be specifically presented in the following description. The focus of this embodiment is the interaction between NG-RAN node 1 and NG-RAN node 2.

[0068] This implementation example can depict two example scenarios: Scenario 1: NG-RAN Node 1 and NG-RAN Node 2 can be two different base stations with independent architectures, where the interface between the two different base stations can be XnAP.

[0069] Scenario 2: NG-RAN node 1 can be a gNB-CU, while NG-RAN node 2 can be a gNB-DU in a base station with a CU-DU separation architecture. The interface between NG-RAN node 1 and NG-RAN node 2 can be an F1AP.

[0070] Step 1: SF can send perception configuration to AMF.

[0071] Step 2: AMF can send the perception configuration to NG-RAN node 1.

[0072] Step 3: NG-RAN Node 1 can send the sensing configuration to NG-RAN Node 2. For Case 1, this message can be an XnAP message, such as an NG-RAN NODE CONFIGURATION UPDATE, or a newly defined XnAP message, such as a sensing configuration request message. For Case 2, this message can be an F1AP message in the positioning procedure, such as a POSITIONING INFORMATION REQUEST, or a newly defined F1AP message, such as a sensing configuration request. In some embodiments, for Case 1, the AMF can send the sensing configuration directly to NG-RAN Node 2 as described in Example 1.

[0073] Step 4: NG-RAN Node 2 can send a sensing configuration response to NG-RAN Node 1. For Case 1, this message can be an XnAP message, such as an NG-RAN NODE CONFIGURATION UPDATEACKNOELDGE, or a newly defined XnAP message, such as a sensing configuration response message. For Case 2, this message can be a legacy F1AP message from the positioning procedure, such as a POSITIONING INFORMATION RESPONSE, or a newly defined F1AP message, such as a sensing configuration response.

[0074] Step 5: NG-RAN node 1 can send a perception configuration response to the AMF.

[0075] Step 6: The AMF can forward / send the awareness configuration response to the SF. For Case 1, NG-RAN Node 2 can also send the awareness configuration response directly to the AMF as described in Implementation Example 1.

[0076] Step 7: SF can send a perception activation message to AMF.

[0077] Step 8: AMF can send the sensing activation information to NG-RAN node 1 without interpreting or changing any information.

[0078] Step 9: NG-RAN node 1 can send the sense activation message to NG-RAN node 2. For case 1, this message can be an XnAP message, such as an NG-RAN node configuration update, or a newly defined XnAP message, such as a sense activation request message. For case 2, this message can be an F1AP message in the positioning procedure, such as a positioning activation request, or a newly defined F1AP message, such as a sense activation request. In some embodiments, for case 1, the AMF can send the sense activation information directly to NG-RAN node 2 via NGAP, as described in Example 1.

[0079] Step 10: NG-RAN Node 2 can send a Sense Activation Response to NG-RAN Node 1. For Case 1, this message can be an XnAP message, such as an NG-RAN NODE CONFIGURATION UPDATEACKNOWLDGE, or a newly defined XnAP message, such as a Sense Activation Response message. For Case 2, this message can be an F1AP message in the localization procedure, such as a POSITIONING ACTIVATION RESPONSE, or a newly defined F1AP message, such as a Sense Activation Response.

[0080] Step 11: NG-RAN node 1 can send a sense activation response to the AMF. For Case 1, as described in Implementation Example 1, NG-RAN node 2 can also send the sense activation response directly to the AMF via NGAP.

[0081] Step 12: The AMF can send a sensing activation response to the SF.

[0082] Step 13: SF can send a perception result request message to AMF.

[0083] Step 14: The AMF can forward the perception result request (also known as the perception result request message) to NG-RAN node 1 without interpreting or changing the request information.

[0084] Step 15: NG-RAN node 1 can send a sensing result request to NG-RAN node 2. For case 1, this message can be an XnAP message, such as an NG-RAN node configuration update, or a newly defined XnAP message, such as a sensing measurement request message. For case 2, this message can be an F1AP message from the localization procedure, such as a positioning measurement request, or a newly defined F1AP message, such as a sensing measurement request. For case 1, as described in Implementation Example 1, the AMF can also send the sensing result request directly to NG-RAN node 2 via NGAP.

[0085] Step 16: NG-RAN Node 2 can send a sensing measurement response to NG-RAN Node 1. For Case 1, this message can be an XnAP message, such as an NG-RAN node configuration update acknowledgment, or a newly defined XnAP message, such as a sensing measurement response message. For Case 2, this message can be an F1AP message from the positioning procedure, such as a positioning measurement response, or a newly defined F1AP message, such as a sensing measurement response.

[0086] Step 17: NG-RAN node 1 can send the sensing measurement response to the AMF.

[0087] Step 18: The AMF can forward / send the sensing measurement response to the SF.

[0088] Step 19: NG-RAN Node 2 can send the sensing report to NG-RAN Node 1. For Case 1, this message can be an XnAP message, such as a Resource Status Update, or a newly defined XnAP message, such as a Sensing Measurement Report message. For Case 2, this message can be an F1AP message from the localization procedure, such as a Positioning Measurement Report or a Sensing Measurement Update, or a newly defined F1AP message, such as a Sensing Measurement Report.

[0089] Step 20: NG-RAN Node 1 can send a perception report to the AMF, which may contain the collected perception reports. For Case 1, whether requested by the SF or initiated by the radio access network, NG-RAN Node 2 can also follow the procedure described in Implementation Example 1 to send the perception report directly to the SF.

[0090] Step 21: The AMF can forward / send the perception report to the SF without interpreting or changing any information in the perception report.

[0091] Sensing functions can be performed by multiple NG-RAN nodes to transmit sensing signals, with one node acting as a transmitter and another as a receiver. However, interaction between NG-RAN nodes for such sensing functions may not be supported. Even in current positioning-related standards, there may be no interaction between NG-RAN nodes for exchanging configurations and reports, as positioning functions may not require cooperation between multiple NG-RAN nodes. This implementation example provides a basic flow for two NG-RAN nodes to coordinate the configuration / activation and result collection for sensing, which may be useful in situations involving multiple NG-RAN nodes participating in sensing functions.

[0092] Implementation Example 3: Flowchart for Auxiliary Information Transmission Figure 9 An exemplary sequence diagram of sensor integration according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. The SF can interact with NG-RAN nodes via the AMF to provide sensing-related auxiliary information, as well as sensing-related system information for broadcasting.

[0093] This implementation example can depict two example scenarios. Scenario 1: NG-RAN Node 1 and NG-RAN Node 2 can be two different base stations with independent architectures, where the interface between NG-RAN Node 1 and NG-RAN Node 2 can be XnAP.

[0094] Scenario 2: NG-RAN node 1 can be a gNB-CU, while NG-RAN node 2 can be a gNB-DU in a base station with a CU-DU separation architecture. The interface between NG-RAN node 1 and NG-RAN node 2 can be an F1AP.

[0095] Step 1: SF can send auxiliary information to AMF.

[0096] Step 2: The AMF can forward the auxiliary information received from the SF to NG-RAN Node 1 without interpreting or modifying the auxiliary information. The message carrying this auxiliary information can reuse NGAP NRPPA procedures (e.g., downlink UE-associated NRPPA transport, downlink non-UE-associated NRPPA transport). This auxiliary information can be included in the NRPPA protocol's auxiliary information control message. Based on existing or new procedures, other NGAP messages can be used to transmit this auxiliary information. The content of the message can be the same as that in Step 3.

[0097] Step 3: If NG-RAN Node 2 also participates in the sensing process according to the sensing configuration, NG-RAN Node 1 can send the auxiliary information to NG-RAN Node 2. For Case 1, this message can be an XnAP message, such as an NG-RAN NODE CONFIGURATION UPDATE, or a newly defined XnAP message, such as a sensing auxiliary information control message. For Case 2, this message can be an F1AP message for the positioning procedure, such as a POSITIONING ASSISTANCE INFORMATION CONTROL, or a newly defined F1AP message, such as a sensing auxiliary information feedback. For Case 1, NG-RAN Node 2 can also receive the auxiliary information directly from the AMF as in Step 2. The auxiliary information in the above three steps can include at least one of the following: a sensing measurement identifier (ID); additional auxiliary information for sensing or positioning; when the first wireless communication node starts, stops, or pauses broadcasting; at least one small cell for broadcasting; the broadcast priority; or sensing-related system information. The auxiliary information to be (or can be) passed to the NG-RAN node or UE can include new auxiliary information for sensing functions and / or auxiliary information for positioning. Instructions to NG-RAN can indicate the start, stop, or pause of broadcasting. Information elements (IEs) can be encoded as enumerations (e.g., start, stop...). Cells used for broadcasting can include a list of cell IDs. The aforementioned auxiliary information can include at least one of the following: broadcast priority or sensing-related system information, which can be included in a PosSIB or defined as new system information, such as sensing system information. Sensing system information can be contained in multiple sensing SIBs. The sensing SIB can be referred to, for example, as a SenSIB.

[0098] Step 4: NG-RAN node 2 can broadcast relevant system information to the UE based on the auxiliary information specified in step 3.

[0099] Step 5: The UE can send feedback to NG-RAN node 1 regarding the received auxiliary information.

[0100] Step 6: NG-RAN Node 2 can send feedback to NG-RAN Node 1 regarding the received auxiliary information. For Case 1, the message can be an XnAP message, such as an NG-RAN node configuration update acknowledgment (NG-RAN NODE CONFIGURATION UPDATE ACKNOWLEDGE), or a newly defined XnAP message, such as a sense auxiliary information feedback message. For Case 2, the message can be an F1AP message from the positioning procedure, such as a positioning auxiliary information feedback (POSITIONING ASSISTANCE INFORMATION FEEDBACK), or a newly defined F1AP message, such as a sense auxiliary information feedback message.

[0101] Step 7: NG-RAN Node 1 can send feedback information to the AMF, which may include feedback from the UE, NG-RAN Node 1, or NG-RAN Node 2. The message carrying auxiliary information feedback can reuse NGAP NRPPa procedures (e.g., uplink UE-associated NRPPA transport, uplink non-UE-associated NRPPA transport). Auxiliary information can be included in the NRPPa protocol's ASSISTANCE INFORMATION FEDBACK message. Other NGAP messages, whether messages from established procedures or new procedures, can also be used to transmit auxiliary information.

[0102] The feedback information in steps 6 and 7 above may include at least one of the following: the perception measurement ID; feedback on the broadcast of perception-related system information (e.g., a list of failed perception SIB types); the cell associated with the feedback information; or the cause value in the event of a failure of the auxiliary information related procedure.

[0103] Step 8: The AMF can send auxiliary information to the SF without interpreting or changing the information.

[0104] This implementation example allows the SF to provide auxiliary information to NG-RAN nodes and / or (one or more) UEs to perform sensing functions. Considering the similarity between sensing and positioning, it is assumed that procedures related to auxiliary information used for positioning can be reused, enabling the SF to transmit sensing auxiliary information to the network side. For flexibility, other NG-RAN messages, whether for established procedures or new procedures, are also taken into account. This implementation example supports the transmission of sensing auxiliary information.

[0105] Implementation Example 4: Interaction between LMF and SF Figure 10 An example sequence diagram of sensor integration according to some embodiments of this disclosure is shown. This embodiment can be implemented for situations where the SF is not deployed within the LMF, and sensing functions can be performed by reusing the positioning procedure. In this case, the interaction between the SF and the LMF can be utilized to enable the LMF to know the sensing configuration and to transmit the sensing configuration by reusing the positioning procedure. Simultaneously, the SF can acquire sensing measurement results collected by the positioning procedure.

[0106] The interaction between the LMF and SF can be categorized as follows: perception configuration, perception activation, and perception measurement reporting. The SF can send perception configurations to the LMF. The LMF can optionally send perception configuration responses to the SF. The SF can send perception configurations (also known as perception activation requests) to the LMF. The LMF can optionally send perception activation responses to the SF. The SF can send perception measurement requests to the SF. The LMF can optionally send perception measurement responses to the SF. The LMF can send perception measurement reports to the SF without a request from the SF. The LMF can directly forward positioning measurement results to the SF as data for performing perception functions. This implementation example can be used when the SF performs perception functions by reusing positioning procedures and the SF is not deployed within the LMF. Figure 10 The basic interaction between SF and LMF is described.

[0107] It should be understood that one or more features in the above implementation examples / embodiments are not unique to a particular implementation example, but can be combined in any way (e.g., with any priority and / or order, concurrently or otherwise).

[0108] Figure 11 A flowchart of a method 1100 for synergistic integration is shown. Method 1100 can be utilized in conjunction with this document. Figure 1-10It may be implemented by any one or more components and devices detailed herein. In general, in some embodiments, method 1100 may be performed by a first wireless communication node (e.g., a BS or gNB) or an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF). Depending on the embodiment, additional, fewer, or different operations may be performed in method 1100. At least one aspect of the operations relates to a system, method, apparatus, or computer-readable medium.

[0109] A first wireless communication node (e.g., a radio access network (RAN) or NG-RAN node 1) can receive sensing configurations from the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) via a first Next Generation Radio Access Network Application Protocol (NGAP) message. The first wireless communication node can send sensing measurement reports related to the sensing configurations to the AMF. For scenarios where the sensing function resides in the core network and the RAN participates in sensing, this disclosure provides a technical solution regarding how to deploy the sensing function in the network. The AMF can assist in forwarding / transmitting the sensing configurations and can report measurement results between the RAN node and the sensing function (SF).

[0110] In some embodiments, the sensing configuration may include indications of at least one of the following: a sensing measurement identifier (ID); a sensing mode; a sensing area range; at least one node participating in the sensing measurement; the behavior of the at least one node; timing or triggering information for sending a sensing measurement report; a sensing signal; a request for a first wireless communication node to configure the sensing signal; specifications or requirements for the sensing measurement report; metrics to be collected for the sensing measurement report; quality of service (QoS) requirements associated with the sensing measurement; timing information associated with the sensing measurement; or sensing measurement results to be reported. This disclosure specifies details that may be included in the sensing configuration. This information can be used by the RAN node or UE to send sensing signals and collect sensing results.

[0111] In some embodiments, a perception measurement report may include an indication of at least one of the following: a perception measurement identifier (ID); at least one node involved in the perception measurement; the perception measurement result to be reported; or the area involved in the perception measurement. This disclosure specifies information that may be included in the perception report and / or used by SF for analysis.

[0112] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node can send an indication to the AMF via a second NGAP message, specifying the purpose of the sensing measurement report, where the purpose is for positioning and / or sensing. The positioning results can be reused for sensing functions. This indication tells / informs the AMF where to forward the positioning report, for example, to the LMF or SF. The LMF or SF can then determine whether the report can be used for its own functions.

[0113] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node may send a sensing configuration response to the AMF in response to a first NGAP message. The sensing configuration response can be used to send an acknowledgment regarding the sensing configuration. Through this response, the SF can determine whether the configuration has been successfully configured. The sensing configuration response may include indications of at least one of the following: a sensing measurement identifier (ID); a configuration status; at least one node with successfully configured sensing; at least one node participating in sensing measurements; timing information associated with the sensing measurements; a sensing signal; a sensing measurement result to be reported; and a cause value (if the sensing configuration was configured or implemented unsuccessfully). This information may be included in the configuration response message to notify the SF of the configuration status.

[0114] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node may receive sensing activation information related to the sensing function via a third NGAP message from the AMF. The sensing activation information can be used to activate the sensing function. It should be noted that the configuration message may not be the message that triggers the sensing function, because the RAN node may simply store the sensing configuration without taking any further action. The sensing activation message can trigger the sensing function on the RAN side. The sensing activation information may include an indication of at least one of the following: a sensing measurement identifier (ID); at least one node to be activated for sensing measurements; an activation time window; timing or triggering information for sending sensing measurement reports; or an indication of how to report sensing measurement reports. The sensing activation information may be included in an activation message that describes how to activate the sensing function on the RAN side.

[0115] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node may send a sensing activation response to the AMF in response to a third NGAP message. The sensing activation message may include an acknowledgment / confirmation about / on sensing activation. The sensing activation response may include an indication of at least one of the following: a sensing measurement identifier (ID); an activation status; at least one node successfully activated for the sensing measurement; at least one node participating in the sensing measurement; or a cause value (if the sensing activation information was configured or implemented unsuccessfully). Sensing activation information may be included in the activation response message to notify the SF of the activation status.

[0116] In some embodiments, a first wireless communication node can receive a sensing result request related to sensing configuration via a fourth NGAP message from the AMF. The first wireless communication node can send a sensing measurement response to the AMF in response to the fourth NGAP message. This disclosure provides a method for reporting sensing reports. Reports may not be proactively reported to the SF, meaning the SF can request reports, and therefore may require a request message for sensing results and a response.

[0117] In some embodiments, a first wireless communication node may send a sensing configuration to a second wireless communication node in a first message. The first wireless communication node may receive a sensing configuration response from the second wireless communication node in response to the first message. This disclosure provides a technical solution for a sensing procedure between NG-RAN nodes. For example, there are two possible scenarios: Scenario 1: Both NG-RAN nodes can be base stations; Scenario 2: NG-RAN node 1 can be a gNB-CU, and NG-RAN node 2 can be a gNB-DU. In these example scenarios, both NG-RAN nodes participate in the sensing function.

[0118] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node may send sensing activation information related to sensing configuration to the second wireless communication node in a second message. The first wireless communication node may receive a sensing activation response from the second wireless communication node in response to the second message. NG-RAN node 1 may trigger the sensing function in NG-RAN node 2.

[0119] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node may send a sensing result request related to sensing configuration to the second wireless communication node in a third message. The first wireless communication node may receive a sensing measurement response from the second wireless communication node in response to the third message. NG-RAN node 1 (e.g., the first wireless communication node) may request sensing reports collected in NG-RAN node 2 (e.g., the second wireless communication node).

[0120] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node and the second wireless communication node can be two different base stations. In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node can be a gNodeB centralized unit (gNB-CU), while the second wireless communication node can be a gNodeB distributed unit (gNB-DU). For example, the gNB-CU and gNB-DU are located in the same gNB or in separate gNBs.

[0121] In some embodiments, a first wireless communication node may receive auxiliary information via a fifth NGAP message from the AMF. The first wireless communication node may transmit this auxiliary information to a second wireless communication node according to a sensing configuration. The SF may have some auxiliary information for the network to perform sensing functions. This disclosure describes a procedure in which the AMF forwards sensing auxiliary information from the SF to the NG-RAN node. This auxiliary information includes indications of at least one of the following: a sensing measurement identifier (ID); additional auxiliary information for sensing or positioning; when the first wireless communication node starts, stops, or suspends broadcasting; at least one cell for broadcasting; the priority of the broadcast; or sensing-related system information. The sensing auxiliary information may be used by the NG-RAN node or the UE to perform sensing.

[0122] In some embodiments, the first wireless communication node may receive feedback information from the second wireless communication node in response to the auxiliary information. The first wireless communication node may send the feedback information to the AMF via a sixth NGAP message. The network may provide feedback regarding the auxiliary information. The feedback information may include an indication of at least one of the following: a sense measurement identifier (ID); feedback regarding broadcast-related system information; at least one cell associated with the feedback information; or a cause value (if the auxiliary information configuration or implementation is unsuccessful). This information may be included in the feedback regarding the auxiliary information, which may inform the SF which auxiliary information can be successfully considered.

[0123] In some embodiments, the first NGAP message, the second NGAP message, the third NGAP message, the fourth NGAP message, the fifth NGAP message, and / or the sixth NGAP message may include at least one of the following: a downlink user equipment (UE) associated New Radio Positioning Protocol A (NRPPA) transport message; a downlink non-UE associated NRPPA transport message; a sensing configuration information message; a sensing configuration response message; an activation information message; a sensing activation response message; a sensing result request message; a sensing measurement response message; an auxiliary information control message; or an auxiliary information feedback message.

[0124] In some embodiments, the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) can send a sensing configuration to a first wireless communication node (e.g., RAN or NG-RAN node 1) via a first Next Generation Radio Access Network Application Protocol (NGAP) message. The AMF can receive sensing measurement reports related to the sensing configuration from the first wireless communication node.

[0125] While various embodiments of the present technical solution have been described above, it should be understood that these are presented by way of example only and not by way of limitation. Similarly, the accompanying drawings may depict exemplary architectures or configurations, provided to enable those skilled in the art to understand exemplary features and functions of the present technical solution. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the technical solution is not limited to the illustrated exemplary architectures or configurations, but can be implemented using various alternative architectures and configurations. Furthermore, as those skilled in the art will understand, one or more features of one embodiment may be combined with one or more features of another embodiment described herein. Therefore, the breadth and scope of this disclosure should not be limited by any of the exemplary embodiments described above.

[0126] It should also be understood that any references to elements made in this document, such as “first” or “second”, generally do not restrict the number or order of those elements. Rather, these designations serve as a convenient means of distinguishing two or more elements or instances of elements. Therefore, references to the first and second elements do not imply that only two elements can be used, or that the first element must precede the second element in some way.

[0127] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that information and signals can be represented using any of a variety of different technologies and techniques. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, and symbols that may be referenced in the above description can be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles, light fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

[0128] Those skilled in the art will further understand that any of the various exemplary logic blocks, modules, processors, devices, circuits, methods, and functions related to the aspects disclosed herein can be implemented by electronic hardware (e.g., digital implementation, analog implementation, or a combination of both), firmware, various forms of program or design code containing instructions (which may be referred to herein as "software" or "software module" for convenience), or any combination of these technologies. To clearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware, firmware, and software, various exemplary components, blocks, modules, circuits, and steps have been generally described above from a functional perspective. Whether such functionality is implemented as hardware, firmware, or software, or as a combination of these technologies, depends on the specific application and the design constraints imposed on the system as a whole. Those skilled in the art can implement the described functions in various ways for each specific application, but such implementation decisions will not depart from the scope of this disclosure.

[0129] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the various exemplary logic blocks, modules, devices, components, and circuits described herein can be implemented within or executed by an integrated circuit (IC), which may include a general-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, or any combination thereof. Logic blocks, modules, and circuits may also include antennas and / or transceivers for communicating with various components within a network or device. A general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor, or alternatively, the processor may be any conventional processor, controller, or state machine. The processor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, such as a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a combination of multiple microprocessors, a combination of one or more microprocessors combined with a DSP core, or any other suitable configuration to perform the functions described herein.

[0130] If implemented in software, these functions can be stored as one or more instructions or code on a computer-readable medium. Therefore, the steps of the methods or algorithms disclosed herein can be implemented as software stored on a computer-readable medium. Computer-readable media include computer storage media and communication media, with communication media including any medium capable of transferring computer programs or code from one location to another. Storage media can be any available medium accessible to a computer. By way of example and not limitation, such computer-readable media can include RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code in the form of instructions or data structures and is accessible to a computer.

[0131] In this document, the term "module" as used herein refers to software, firmware, hardware, and any combination of these elements for performing the relevant functions described herein. Furthermore, for the purposes of discussion, various modules are described as discrete modules; however, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art, two or more modules can be combined to form a single module that performs the relevant functions according to embodiments of this technical solution.

[0132] Furthermore, memory or other storage devices, as well as communication components, may be employed in embodiments of this technical solution. It should be understood that, for clarity, the above description refers to embodiments of this technical solution with reference to different functional units and processors. However, it is apparent that any suitable functional distribution can be used among different functional units, processing logic elements, or domains without diminishing the technical solution. For example, functions shown as being performed by separate processing logic elements or controllers may be performed by the same processing logic element or controller. Therefore, references to specific functional units are merely references to suitable means of providing said functions and do not indicate a strict logical or physical structure or organization.

[0133] Various modifications to the embodiments described in this disclosure will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein can be applied to other embodiments without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, this disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but rather to be applied with the broadest scope consistent with the novel features and principles disclosed herein, as set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A method comprising: receiving, by a first wireless communication node, a sensing configuration from an access and mobility management function (AMF) through a first next generation radio access network application protocol (NGAP) message; and sending, by the first wireless communication node, a sensing measurement report related to the sensing configuration to the AMF.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, the sensing configuration comprises an indication of at least one of: a sensing measurement identifier (ID) ; a sensing mode; a sensing area scope; at least one node participating in the sensing measurement; a behavior of the at least one node; a timing or trigger information for sending the sensing measurement report; a sensing signal; a request for the first wireless communication node to configure the sensing signal; a specification or requirement of the sensing measurement report; a metric to be collected for the sensing measurement report; a quality of service (QoS) requirement related to the sensing measurement; a timing information related to the sensing measurement; or a result of the sensing measurement to be reported. the sensing measurement report comprises an indication of at least one of:

3. The method of claim 1, wherein, a sensing measurement identifier (ID) ; at least one node participating in the sensing measurement; a result of the sensing measurement to be reported; or a scope of an area participating in the sensing measurement. 4.The method of claim 1, comprising: sending, by the first wireless communication node, an indication to the AMF through a second NGAP message for indicating a usage of the sensing measurement report, wherein the usage is for positioning or for sensing. 5.The method of claim 1, comprising: sending, by the first wireless communication node, a sensing configuration response to the AMF in response to the first NGAP message. the sensing configuration response comprises an indication of at least one of:

6. The method of claim 5, wherein, a sensing measurement identifier (ID) ; a configuration status; at least one node successfully configured with the sensing configuration; at least one node participating in the sensing measurement; a timing information related to the sensing measurement; a sensing signal; a result of the sensing measurement to be reported; or a cause value in case of unsuccessful configuration or implementation of the sensing configuration. 7.The method of claim 1, comprising: receiving, by the first wireless communication node, a sensing activation information related to a sensing function from the AMF through a third NGAP message. the sensing activation information comprises an indication of at least one of:

8. The method of claim 7, wherein, a sensing measurement identifier (ID) ; at least one node to be activated for sensing measurement; an activation time window; a timing or trigger information for sending the sensing measurement report; or an indication on how to report the sensing measurement report. 9.The method of claim 7, further comprising: sending, by the first wireless communication node, a sensing activation response to the AMF in response to the third NGAP message. the sensing activation response comprises an indication of at least one of:

10. The method of claim 9, wherein, a sensing measurement identifier (ID) ; an activation status; at least one node successfully activated for sensing measurement; at least one node participating in the sensing measurement; or a cause value in case of unsuccessful configuration or implementation of the sensing activation information.

11. The method of claim 1, comprising: ​ receiving, by the first wireless communication node from the AMF, a sensing result request related to the sensing configuration by a fourth NGAP message; and sending, by the first wireless communication node to the AMF, a sensing measurement response in response to the fourth NGAP message.

12. The method of claim 1, comprising: sending, by the first wireless communication node to a second wireless communication node, the sensing configuration in a first message; and receiving, by the first wireless communication node from the second wireless communication node, a sensing configuration response in response to the first message.

13. The method of claim 1, comprising: sending, by the first wireless communication node to a second wireless communication node, sensing activation information related to the sensing configuration in a second message; and receiving, by the first wireless communication node from the second wireless communication node, a sensing activation response in response to the second message.

14. The method of claim 1, comprising: sending, by the first wireless communication node to a second wireless communication node, a sensing result request related to the sensing configuration in a third message; and receiving, by the first wireless communication node from the second wireless communication node, a sensing measurement response in response to the third message.

15. The method of any one of claims 12, 13, or 14, wherein, The first wireless communication node and the second wireless communication node are two different base stations.

16. The method of any one of claims 12, 13, or 14, wherein, The first wireless communication node is a gNodeB Centralized Unit (gNB-CU) and the second wireless communication node is a gNodeB Distributed Unit (gNB-DU).

17. The method of claim 1, further comprising: receiving, by the first wireless communication node from the AMF, assistance information by a fifth NGAP message; and sending, by the first wireless communication node to a second wireless communication node, the assistance information according to the sensing configuration.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein, The assistance information comprises an indication of at least one of: a sensing measurement identifier (ID); additional assistance information for sensing or for positioning; when the first wireless communication node starts, stops, or pauses broadcasting; at least one cell for broadcasting; a priority of the broadcasting; or sensing related system information.

19. The method of claim 17, further comprising: receiving, by the first wireless communication node from the second wireless communication node, feedback information in response to the assistance information; and sending, by the first wireless communication node to the AMF, the feedback information by a sixth NGAP message.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein, The feedback information comprises an indication of at least one of: a sensing measurement identifier (ID); feedback on broadcasting related system information; at least one cell associated with the feedback information; or a cause value in case the assistance information configuration or implementation is not successful.

21. The method of any one of claims 1, 4, 7, 11, 17, or 19, wherein the first NGAP message, second NGAP message, third NGAP message, fourth NGAP message, fifth NGAP message, or sixth NGAP message comprises at least one of: a downlink user equipment (UE) associated new radio positioning protocol A (NRPPA) transmission message; a downlink non-UE associated NRPPA transmission message; a sensing configuration information message; a sensing configuration response message; an activation information message; a sensing activation response message; a sensing result request message; a sensing measurement response message; an assistance information control message; or an assistance information feedback message.

22. A method comprising: sending, by an access and mobility management function (AMF), a sensing configuration to a first radio communication node via a first next generation radio access network application protocol (NGAP) message; and receiving, by the AMF, a sensing measurement report from the first radio communication node related to the sensing configuration.

23. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions that, when executed by at least one processor, cause the at least one processor to perform a method according to any of claims 1 to 22.

24. An apparatus comprising: at least one processor configured to implement a method according to any of claims 1 to 22.

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