Positioning service switching method, positioning service switching device and related equipment
By introducing failure timers and enable condition information into the encrypted dataset, intelligent switching between PPP and RTK services is achieved, solving the problems of discontinuous positioning services and resource waste caused by the independent operation of PPP and RTK, and realizing high-precision positioning service continuity and resource optimization in all scenarios.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CHINA MOBILE GROUP DESIGN INST
- Filing Date
- 2026-01-06
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-28
AI Technical Summary
In existing technologies, PPP and RTK, two high-precision positioning systems, operate independently. This results in terminals being unable to enjoy high-precision positioning in areas with poor RTK network coverage or service interruptions. Furthermore, satellite resources are wasted, and the lack of an intelligent switching mechanism leads to a fragmented user experience and low resource utilization efficiency.
By adding an expiration timer and enable condition information to the encrypted dataset, a decision-making basis is provided for the terminal, enabling intelligent switching between PPP and RTK services. When RTK is unavailable, the terminal proactively switches to PPP service based on the timer or condition information, and monitors RTK recovery during PPP to ensure seamless switching and optimized resource utilization.
It achieves high-precision positioning service continuity and resource optimization in all scenarios, avoids service interruptions, improves user experience, and saves satellite resources and reduces operating costs by prioritizing the use of terrestrial RTK services.
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Figure CN121940831A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the fields of wireless communication and high-precision positioning technology, and to a positioning service switching method, apparatus and related equipment. Background Technology
[0002] High-precision positioning is a core technological support for many fields such as intelligent transportation, precision agriculture, and unmanned systems in the future. At present, the mainstream high-precision positioning technologies mainly include Precise Point Positioning (PPP) and Real-time Kinematic (RTK).
[0003] PPP technology broadcasts precise orbit and clock bias data via satellite, enabling user terminals to achieve decimeter- to centimeter-level positioning over a wide area using a single receiver. However, it has a long convergence time, consumes valuable satellite communication resources, and is costly. RTK technology, on the other hand, generates differential correction data through ground reference stations and is typically broadcast via terrestrial mobile communication networks such as 5G. It can provide centimeter- or even millimeter-level real-time positioning for terminals within the coverage area, offering high accuracy and low cost. However, its service quality and continuity heavily depend on the coverage of the terrestrial network.
[0004] In existing technologies, PPP and RTK systems are typically designed and operated independently. Terminals only subscribe to and use one of the positioning services. This results in terminals being unable to enjoy high-precision positioning services in areas with poor RTK network coverage or service interruptions (such as remote areas or indoors); while in areas with good RTK coverage, using PPP services wastes satellite resources. Therefore, a further solution is needed to provide a way to switch between PPP and RTK high-precision positioning services to ensure users receive a continuous and reliable high-precision positioning experience across all scenarios. Summary of the Invention
[0005] The purpose of this application is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a location service switching method, apparatus and related equipment to solve the problems of discontinuous location services and low resource utilization efficiency caused by the isolated operation of two high-precision positioning systems in the prior art.
[0006] This application provides a location service switching method, which is applied to a terminal device supporting precise single-point positioning and real-time differential positioning, including: Obtain an encrypted dataset for decrypting real-time differential positioning auxiliary information, the encrypted dataset including an expiration timer and enable condition information; When the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable, a switch to the precise point positioning service is initiated based on the failure timer or the enable condition information. During the switch to the precise point positioning service, it is monitored whether the connected network has resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service, and if the network is detected to have resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service, the switch back to the real-time differential positioning service is performed.
[0007] This application embodiment also provides a location service switching device, including: The acquisition module is used to acquire an encrypted dataset for decrypting real-time differential positioning auxiliary information, wherein the encrypted dataset includes an expiration timer and enable condition information; The switching module is used to initiate a switch to the precise point positioning service based on the failure timer or the enable condition information when the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable. The monitoring and switchback module is used to monitor whether the connected network has resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service during the switch to the precise point positioning service, and to switch back to the real-time differential positioning service if the network is detected to have resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service.
[0008] This application also provides an electronic device, including: a processor, a memory, and a bus. The memory stores machine-readable instructions executable by the processor. The processor communicates with the memory via the bus. When the machine-readable instructions are executed by the processor, they perform the steps in the location service switching method provided in this application.
[0009] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, causes the processor to implement the steps in the location service switching method provided in this application.
[0010] This application also provides a computer program product that stores instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to perform the steps in the location service switching method provided in this application.
[0011] The positioning service switching method provided in this application adds enabling condition information (such as a list of effective service areas (TA) and an effective time period) and an expiration timer field to the encrypted dataset used to decrypt real-time differential positioning auxiliary information, providing the terminal with two criteria for determining service unavailability. When the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable, the terminal proactively predicts and triggers the switch in advance based on the enabling condition information, or triggers the switch after the expiration timer expires. Subsequently, while using the precise single-point positioning service, the terminal continuously monitors whether the connected network has resumed providing real-time differential positioning service, and initiates a back-switch process when recovery is detected. This dual-trigger mechanism ensures the intelligence and reliability of the switch from ground differential positioning to satellite precise positioning, avoiding service interruption. Moreover, the closed-loop monitoring and back-switch mechanism achieve seamless connection between the two high-precision positioning services, ensuring the continuity of positioning across all scenarios while guiding the terminal to prioritize the use of ground network resources, thereby optimizing the overall system's resource utilization efficiency. Attached Figure Description
[0012] Figure 1 A flowchart illustrating a location service switching method provided for an exemplary embodiment of this application; Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the signaling interaction of the 5G network terminal registration process provided as an exemplary embodiment of this application; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the encryption key distribution process in the location service switching method provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the signaling process for a terminal to initiate authentication registration with a satellite system and obtain precise point positioning (PPP) service after the failure timer expires, provided as an exemplary embodiment of this application; Figure 5 A complete signaling sequence diagram of a terminal obtaining a real-time differential positioning service key through a specific service request, provided as an exemplary embodiment of this application; Figure 6 A complete signaling sequence diagram of a terminal obtaining a real-time differential positioning service key through a specific service request, provided as an exemplary embodiment of this application; Figure 7 A schematic diagram illustrating the signaling process by which a terminal, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this application, initiates service deregistration with the satellite system after successfully switching back from Precise Point Positioning (PPP) service to Real-Time Differential Positioning (RTK) service; Figure 8 A schematic diagram of the seamless switching system concept and signaling interaction for a positioning service, which integrates core innovations and key processes, provided for an exemplary embodiment of this application. Figure 9 A schematic diagram of a location service switching device provided as an exemplary embodiment of this application; Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided as an exemplary embodiment of this application. Detailed Implementation
[0013] The principles and spirit of this application will now be described with reference to several exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. These embodiments are given merely to enable those skilled in the art to better understand and implement this application, and are not intended to limit the scope of this application in any way.
[0014] The following is a description of the terms used in this application: CORS (Continuously Operating Reference Stations) is a network of multiple permanent, 24 / 7 continuously operating GNSS reference stations. Its main function is to continuously receive raw observation data (pseudorange, carrier phase, etc.) from global satellite navigation systems (such as GPS and BeiDou) and transmit this data to a data processing center in real-time or near real-time. This network is the infrastructure for generating high-precision differential correction information (for RTK) and precise orbit / clock error products (for PPP).
[0015] RTCM (Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services) is an international professional organization. In the GNSS field, its RTCM standards (especially the RTCM SC-104 protocol series) are a globally widely adopted format for transmitting differential GNSS correction data (including pseudorange differential, carrier phase differential, etc.) between a base station and a mobile station. This standard ensures interoperability between equipment from different manufacturers and is key to the widespread application of Real-Time Dynamic Differential (RTK) technology.
[0016] LMF (Location Management Function) is a network function entity in the 5G core network (5GC) responsible for providing location services. It manages location-related sessions and processes, such as requesting location measurements from the access network (NG-RAN), obtaining location-related information from the terminal (UE) or access network, calculating the final location estimate, and in this application, is also responsible for generating and distributing the cipher key used to decrypt broadcast location assistance information (posSIB).
[0017] posSIB (Posing System Information Block) is a type of system information that is periodically broadcast in the 5G network air interface (such as the NR broadcast channel). It is specifically used to provide positioning assistance data to terminals, such as GNSS differential correction information (RTK data) and auxiliary satellite ephemeris (A-GNSS). By receiving and parsing these information blocks, terminals can significantly improve positioning speed, accuracy, and reliability, making it a key air interface bearer for achieving high-precision 5G positioning services.
[0018] GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) refers to all satellite navigation and positioning systems that provide global coverage, including the US GPS (Global Positioning System), China's BDS (BeiDou Navigation Satellite System), Russia's GLONASS, and the EU's Galileo. User terminals can calculate their own position, velocity, and time information by receiving signals from multiple satellites in these systems.
[0019] Precise Point Positioning (PPP) is a high-precision absolute positioning technology. Unlike differential positioning, which relies on local reference stations, PPP uses a single GNSS receiver. It receives precise orbit and clock correction data broadcast by satellites and uses sophisticated error models (ionosphere, troposphere, etc.) to correct its own observations (carrier phase and pseudorange), achieving centimeter- to decimeter-level positioning accuracy globally. Its advantage lies in its wide coverage and lack of distance from reference stations.
[0020] RTK (Real-time kinematic) refers to real-time dynamic carrier phase differential positioning, a high-precision real-time relative positioning technology based on carrier phase observations. It requires a fixed base station (usually a CORS station) and a rover (user terminal). The base station compares its observed carrier phase with known precise coordinates, generates differential correction data, and sends it to the rover in real-time via a data link (such as a 5G network). The rover applies these corrections to eliminate common errors (such as satellite clock bias and atmospheric delay), thereby achieving real-time relative positioning at the centimeter or even millimeter level.
[0021] A cipher data set, in this application, specifically refers to a data structure generated by the network side (LMF) and distributed to the terminal (UE) in 5G positioning services. It contains a cipher key used to decrypt a specific type of Positioning System Information Block (posSIB), the validity conditions of the key (such as the applicable geographic area TAI list, valid start and end times), and the newly added Invalid Timer field in this application. A single key response message can contain multiple such datasets to support services with different regions, time periods, and positioning accuracies.
[0022] The Invalid Timer is a new core field added to the Ciphering dataset in this application embodiment. It is a timer configured on the network side and executed by the terminal side. This timer is activated when the terminal detects that it can no longer use the 5G Real-time Differential Positioning (RTK) service (e.g., it cannot receive or decrypt the posSIB). If the service is not restored after the timer expires, the terminal autonomously triggers a switchover process to the Precise Point Positioning (PPP) satellite system. This mechanism is the key control logic for achieving a seamless and reliable switchover between the two positioning modes.
[0023] mo-Rtkkey is the establishment cause value initiated by the mobile station for real-time dynamic key requests. It is a newly added RRC (Radio Resource Control) layer signaling cause value in this application embodiment. When a terminal needs to switch back from PPP mode to RTK mode but finds that there is no valid decryption key for the current area, it will use this specific establishmentcause value (mo-Rtkkey) to indicate its intention to "request a real-time differential positioning key" when initiating a service request (such as an RRC connection establishment request). The network side (such as AMF) identifies this and triggers the corresponding key distribution process.
[0024] As described in the background section, PPP systems and 5G-based RTK systems are typically built and operated independently. End users usually need to pre-subscribe and commit to one service. For example, a terminal subscribed to PPP services can still function in remote areas without 5G network coverage, but in urban areas it continuously consumes expensive satellite resources and cannot enjoy the higher-precision RTK service; conversely, a terminal subscribed to RTK services will experience interrupted high-precision positioning once it leaves the 5G network coverage area or service zone. The lack of a coordination mechanism between these two systems prevents intelligent and seamless switching between positioning modes based on the terminal's actual network environment, service availability, and user needs. This results in a fragmented user experience, low satellite resource utilization, and insufficient continuity and reliability of high-precision positioning services.
[0025] Therefore, there is an urgent need to propose a technical solution that can integrate the advantages of both PPP and RTK, enabling terminals to autonomously, smoothly, and seamlessly switch between the two high-precision positioning systems based on real-time conditions, so as to achieve high-precision positioning services in all scenarios, continuously, and economically.
[0026] To address the aforementioned issues in related technologies, this application provides a location service switching method, apparatus, and related equipment. By adding enabling condition information (such as a list of valid service areas (TAs) and a timeout period) and an expiration timer field to the encrypted dataset used for decrypting real-time differential positioning auxiliary information, the terminal is provided with two criteria for determining service unavailability. When the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable, the terminal proactively predicts and triggers a switch in advance based on the enabling condition information, or triggers a switch after the expiration timer expires. Subsequently, during the use of precise point positioning service, the terminal continuously monitors whether the connected network has resumed providing real-time differential positioning service, and initiates a back-switch process when recovery is detected. This dual-trigger mechanism ensures the intelligence and reliability of the switch from ground differential positioning to satellite precise positioning, avoiding service interruption. Moreover, the closed-loop monitoring and back-switch mechanism achieve seamless connection between the two high-precision positioning services, ensuring the continuity of positioning across all scenarios while guiding the terminal to prioritize the use of ground network resources, thereby optimizing the overall system's resource utilization efficiency.
[0027] First, this solution ensures the continuity and reliability of high-precision positioning services, enabling terminals to maintain decimeter-level positioning accuracy even in areas with poor 5G network conditions or no RTK service (such as remote mountainous areas or network coverage edges), avoiding service interruptions and improving user experience. Second, it optimizes the use of network resources by guiding terminals to prioritize the use of lower-cost and higher-precision terrestrial RTK services when 5G networks are available, and only activating satellite PPP resources when necessary. This effectively saves valuable satellite communication bandwidth and signaling overhead, reducing overall operating costs. Finally, this solution achieves a full-scenario adaptive high-precision positioning service fusion, combining the advantages of wide-area coverage and localized high precision.
[0028] The technical solutions provided by the various embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0029] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating a location service switching method provided as an exemplary embodiment of this application. The method is applied to a terminal device that supports both precise point positioning and real-time differential positioning. Figure 1 As shown, the method includes: Step 110: Obtain the encrypted dataset used to decrypt the real-time differential positioning auxiliary information. The encrypted dataset includes an expiration timer and enable condition information.
[0030] In 5G positioning services, an encrypted dataset refers to structured key configuration information generated by the network side (such as LMF) and distributed to the terminal (UE). It not only contains the actual key value used to decrypt Position Assistive Information Broadcast (posSIB), but also specifies the validity conditions of the key, such as its applicable geographical area and effective time. A typical encrypted dataset is called a Ciphering dataset.
[0031] Based on references to 3GPP protocols (such as TS 24.501), the "Cipheringkey data" information element used to carry the location service key consists of one or more encrypted Ciphering data sets. Each Ciphering data set, as a complete data unit, contains several functional parts: 1) a Ciphering set ID for identification; 2) a Ciphering key and related parameters for decryption; 3) a bitmap indicating whether various Positioning System Information Blocks (PosSIBs) under different radio access technologies (such as E-UTRA, NR) are encrypted; 4) enabling information defining the key's validity conditions, specifically including the Validity start time, Validity duration, and a list of enabled geographic areas (TAIs); and 5) an Invalid Timer field, a core addition in this invention. The network side can distribute up to 16 such datasets at a time. By parsing the acquired encrypted ciphering dataset, the terminal can clearly determine the geographic area, time range, network, and type of location assistance information broadcast, and which key can be used for decryption. Specifically, when the terminal moves to a location where its TA (Targeting Access) is not within the TAIs (Targeting Access Information) list of any stored ciphering dataset, even if it receives location assistance information (posSIB) from the cell broadcast, it will be unable to decrypt it due to the lack of the corresponding key, thus determining that it cannot use the real-time differential positioning service. The enable condition information defined in this application embodiment originates from the enable start time, enable duration, and enable geographic area list in this data structure, while the expiration timer is a newly added independent control field.
[0032] The invalid timer is a new core field added to the encrypted dataset. It is a pre-configured timer (e.g., 5 seconds) on the network side, started by the terminal when it detects that the real-time differential positioning (RTK) service is unavailable. Its core function is to serve as the basis for the terminal to autonomously initiate a location mode switch.
[0033] Enabling condition information specifically refers to the combination of control parameters contained in the ciphering dataset used to determine the availability of real-time differential positioning services. Its core components include an enabling geographic area list (such as a TAIs list) and enabling time information (such as validity start time and validity duration). The enabling geographic area list limits the effective cellular network geographic location range for the service, while the enabling time information defines the start and end time windows for service validity. By comparing its current geographic location and system time with the enabling condition information, the terminal can autonomously and accurately determine whether the real-time differential positioning service is available at the current or future specific time, thus providing a direct basis for predictive intelligent switching decisions regarding positioning services.
[0034] In some exemplary embodiments, the specific duration of the failure timer is configured and issued by the network side (such as the Location Management Function (LMF) according to the service policy and typical network conditions. For example, its duration can be set to several seconds (such as 5 seconds). This value is designed to provide a reasonable recovery window for momentary anomalies on the network side or brief unavailability of the terminal. If the timer duration is too short, the terminal may frequently trigger unnecessary mode switching due to momentary network fluctuations (such as brief signaling loss or packet errors), increasing the system signaling load and affecting the user experience; if the duration is too long, it will unnecessarily delay the time for the terminal to switch to the backup location service (i.e., precise single-point positioning) when the service is indeed unavailable, affecting the continuity of positioning. Therefore, by configuring a suitable failure timer, the method provided in this application embodiment can achieve a balance between preventing erroneous switching caused by momentary interference and ensuring that the backup plan can be activated in a timely manner when the service is interrupted, thereby optimizing the overall service reliability and response efficiency. After the terminal starts the timer, if the real-time differential positioning service recovers during the timer period (for example, successfully receiving decryptable positioning assistance information again), the terminal resets or stops the timer and continues to use the real-time differential positioning service; if the timer expires, the service is confirmed to be in a state of continuous unavailability, and then the subsequent handover process is triggered.
[0035] Step 110, obtaining the encrypted dataset, is fundamental for the terminal to initiate high-precision positioning services. This process occurs during initial terminal registration or cross-tracking area (TA) updates. The network-side LMF generates the corresponding Ciphering dataset based on the user's subscription information (such as whether high-precision positioning is subscribed, the subscribed accuracy level, and the effective area / time period), and sends it to the terminal via AMF. The terminal receives and stores this dataset, preparing for subsequent location information decryption and mode switching decisions.
[0036] In some exemplary embodiments, the encrypted dataset is a Ciphering dataset structure that conforms to the definition of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) protocol; The invalid timer is a new field called Invalid Timer added to the Ciphering data set.
[0037] Determining the validity of the encrypted dataset is a crucial autonomous decision-making step. When a terminal needs or is using RTK services (e.g., to decrypt periodically broadcast posSIBs), it performs the following checks: First, it obtains the Tracking Area Identifier (TAI) corresponding to its currently connected cell and checks if it exists in the key's "enabled geographic area list" (TAIs list); second, it obtains the current system time and checks if it falls within the window defined by the "enabled time information" (Validitystart time + Validity duration). Only when both the "region" and "time" conditions are met simultaneously does the terminal consider the encrypted dataset valid and can use the key within it for decryption.
[0038] For example, the network side (such as AMF / LMF) sends an encrypted dataset via a Registration Accept message. This dataset is the Ciphering data set structure defined in the protocol. Each unit contains multiple components, the core of which includes: a Ciphering data set ID for identification, a Ciphering key for decryption, an encrypted indicator bitmap indicating the type of Position Assistive Information Block (posSIB) under different radio access technologies, an enable start time and enable duration defining the key's effective time window, an enable Tracking Areas (TAIs) list limiting the valid geographical range of the key, and an invalid timer added in this scheme. The terminal obtains complete key control and criterion information by parsing this Ciphering data set.
[0039] The "Cipheringkey data" information element (IE) defined according to the 3GPP protocol (such as TS 24.501) follows a general structure. This information element adheres to a typical protocol information element encoding format, and its general structure mainly includes three parts: a header identifying the information element type ("Ciphering key data" IEI), a field indicating the total length of subsequent content (Length of ciphering key data contents), and one or more core "Ciphering data sets". Each Ciphering data set, as a sub-unit, specifically carries the key used to decrypt a specific Position Assist Information Block (posSIB) and its related control parameters. This application makes a key enhancement to this standard data structure: a "Invalid Timer" field is added to the internal structure definition of each "Ciphering data set". This new field, along with other existing fields (such as Cipheringset ID, Ciphering key, list of enabled geographic areas, and enabling time information), constitutes the "encrypted dataset" described in this invention. Therefore, Figure 10 The hierarchical data structure and its common components shown provide a precise and standard protocol location and implementation carrier for the newly added Invalid Timer field in this application, ensuring the compatibility and standardization feasibility of the solution with the existing 5G positioning architecture.
[0040] First, by adding an enabled geographic region list and enabled time information to the encrypted dataset, granular access control and commercial management capabilities are provided for RTK services. By binding the validity of keys to specific network geographic locations (TAIlist) and precise time windows, network operators can precisely implement differentiated service policies based on regions and time periods (e.g., urban areas only, time-based pricing). For terminals, this provides a clear and self-determining set of service authorization rules. Terminals do not need to frequently query the network; they can determine whether they are currently authorized to use high-precision RTK services through local calculations alone. This achieves efficient, low-signaling-overhead service availability self-checking and provides clear input for subsequent handover decisions (e.g., determining "not subscribed to this region" or "out of service hours").
[0041] Secondly, an invalid timer field is configured in the encrypted dataset, and a validity judgment based on region / time is introduced as a precondition for triggering the timer. This together realizes a reliable buffer and anti-false judgment mechanism for the decision to trigger mode switching from a service unavailability state. The enabled geographic region list and enabled time information first help the terminal accurately identify expected service unavailability caused by unauthorized access. The invalid timer mainly handles unexpected, transient service interruptions (such as brief signal obstruction or signaling loss). When the terminal determines that the RTK service is unavailable for any reason, it does not switch immediately, but starts a timer and waits for a period of time. If the service recovers before the timer expires (e.g., re-entering the signal coverage area or receiving the correct posSIB), the switchover is canceled and the RTK mode is maintained; only if the timer expires continuously is it confirmed as an unrecoverable fault, and then a switch to PPP is triggered. This effectively avoids frequent and unnecessary mode switching caused by instantaneous network fluctuations, ensures the smoothness and stability of the location service, and improves user experience and overall system efficiency.
[0042] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the signaling interaction during the 5G network terminal registration process, provided as an exemplary embodiment of this application. The process illustrates the signaling interaction between the terminal (UE) and multiple network function entities (such as AMF, UDM, AUSF, PCF, etc.) in the core network through the access network ([R]AN), ultimately culminating in the New Access and Mobility Management Function (New AMF) completing registration via a "RegistrationAccept" message (step 21). This standard process forms the network foundation for implementing the method provided in this application. Specifically, the encrypted ciphering dataset obtained by the terminal in this application for decrypting real-time differential positioning auxiliary information is generated by the Location Management Function (LMF) based on user subscription data and then sent to the terminal via the "RegistrationAccept" message or other service messages. Furthermore, the process of AMF querying and subscribing to user subscription data from the Unified Data Management (UDM) network function (steps 14-16) is crucial in determining whether a user has subscribed to high-precision positioning services, their effective service area (TAI list), and effective time period. This information constitutes the source of fields such as the "Enabled Geographic Area List" and "Enabled Time Information" in the encrypted data set, and is an important basis for the terminal to subsequently determine whether the real-time differential positioning service is available. Therefore, Figure 2 The registration process shown provides the standard protocol framework and signaling bearer upon which the key and timer are distributed and the service availability is determined in the embodiments of this application.
[0043] Figure 3 This application provides a schematic diagram of an encryption key distribution process for high-precision positioning services, which serves as an exemplary embodiment of the present application. Figure 2 This is a part of or an enhanced implementation of the standard registration process shown. As shown in the figure, this process begins with the Location Management Function (LMF) notifying the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) of data containing ciphering keys (step 1). Subsequently, the terminal (UE) initiates a registration request (step 3). After completing the registration process on the core network side, the AMF sends the received ciphering keys to the terminal via a "Registration Accept" message (steps 6 and 7). This process clarifies the core path of the key used to decrypt the Position Assistive Broadcast Information (posSIB), which is generated by the LMF, forwarded by the AMF, and finally delivered to the terminal via a registration response message. This process is directly and critically related to this application: the "ciphering dataset" (i.e., Ciphering data set) mentioned in the core innovation of this application is carried in the "ciphering keys" sent in this process. In particular, the "Invalid Timer" field added to the dataset structure in this application is generated by the LMF and sent to the terminal by the AMF in this process. Therefore, Figure 3 This demonstrates intuitively the core signaling interaction upon which this application relies and enhances—namely, by extending the data structure carried by the existing location key distribution mechanism (by adding an Invalid Timer), it provides the necessary control parameters for achieving seamless handover that is subsequently determined and triggered autonomously by the terminal.
[0044] Step 120: When the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable, initiate a switch to the precise point positioning service based on the failure timer or enable condition information.
[0045] The unavailability of real-time differential positioning service refers to a state where the terminal is unable to obtain or correctly use real-time dynamic carrier phase differential technology (RTK) for high-precision positioning via the 5G network. This unavailability may stem from various reasons, such as the network not providing data, the terminal not being authorized, or a physical connection interruption.
[0046] For example, the specific circumstances of service unavailability can be summarized into four business scenarios: the serving cell where the terminal device is located does not broadcast real-time differential positioning assistance information, for example, the terminal roams into a geographical area that does not provide broadcast high-precision positioning; the geographical location where the terminal device is located has not signed up for real-time differential positioning service, for example, the terminal roams into a non-signed service area; the current time exceeds the valid period of the real-time differential positioning service, for example, the terminal enters a non-signed period; and the terminal device is disconnected from the communication network that provides real-time differential positioning service, for example, the terminal roams out of the 5G network.
[0047] In summary, based on the above four scenarios, this application embodiment can initiate a switch to precise point positioning service when the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable, according to the failure timer or the aforementioned enabling condition information. Specifically, the terminal can continuously or periodically monitor the RTK service status. If it is detected that the terminal device's geographical location is not subscribed to real-time differential positioning service (e.g., the terminal has entered a non-subscribed service area), or the current time exceeds the valid subscription period for real-time differential positioning service (e.g., the terminal has entered a non-subscribed period), then this can be classified as a situation where the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable based on the enabling condition information. If it is detected that the serving cell where the terminal device is located does not broadcast real-time differential positioning auxiliary information (e.g., the terminal has entered a geographical area that does not provide broadcast high-precision positioning), or the terminal device is disconnected from the communication network providing real-time differential positioning service (e.g., the terminal has left the 5G network), then this can be classified as a situation where the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable due to unpredictable reasons.
[0048] In some exemplary embodiments, initiating a switch to precise point positioning services based on a failure timer or enable condition information includes: If, based on the enabling condition information, it is determined that the real-time differential positioning service will be unavailable at a predetermined future time, then a switch to the precise point positioning service will be initiated before that predetermined future time; or, If the real-time differential positioning service becomes unavailable due to unforeseen reasons, an expiration timer is started, and after the expiration timer expires, a switch to the precise point positioning service is initiated.
[0049] By decomposing the abstract service unavailability state into four specific and detectable criteria based on network broadcast capability (posSchedulingInfoList), user subscription data (TAIs list), time validity (Validity starttime / duration), and network connection status, and categorizing these criteria into two scenarios: real-time differential positioning service unavailability determined by enabling condition information at a predetermined future time (also known as predictable unavailability), and real-time differential positioning service unavailability due to unpredictable reasons (also known as unpredictable unavailability), the terminal can accurately pinpoint the root cause of service interruption. This avoids ambiguous or erroneous judgments of the service status by the terminal, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of subsequent handover decisions and laying a solid logical foundation for the entire seamless handover mechanism.
[0050] Among these, predictable unavailability refers to situations where the terminal can anticipate the impending unavailability of a service based on known and defined rules or information, before the service is actually interrupted. For example, based on the enable time information in the encrypted dataset, it is possible to know precisely when the RTK service will expire and become invalid at a certain future time.
[0051] In some exemplary embodiments, the enabling condition information includes a list of enabled geographic regions and enabling time information. Determining that the real-time differential positioning service will be unavailable at a predetermined future time based on the enabling condition information includes: Based on whether the current geographical location is within the list of enabled geographic areas at a future determined time, and whether the current time and / or the future determined time are within the range defined by the enabling time information, it is determined whether the real-time differential positioning service is available at the future determined time.
[0052] Specifically, the terminal device can determine whether the real-time differential positioning service is available based on whether its current geographical location is within the list of enabled geographic areas at a future determined time and / or at the current time, and whether the current time and / or the future determined time are within the range defined by the enabling time information.
[0053] The enabled geographic area list refers to the set of geographic information in the encrypted dataset used to limit the effective use of the key. In 3GPP standards, it usually exists in the form of a Tracking Area Identifier (TAI) list. It defines the cellular network areas where the user has subscribed and can use the key to decrypt posSIB.
[0054] Enable time information refers to the information in the encrypted dataset used to limit the effective use period of the key, typically including a valid start time and a valid duration. It ensures that location services are available on an hourly or time-segmented basis.
[0055] Unpredictable unavailability: This refers to situations where service interruptions occur due to sudden or uncertain factors, and the terminal cannot receive clear warnings in advance. For example, the terminal may suddenly move to a 5G network coverage blind spot, or be unable to decode the Position Assist Information Block (posSIB) due to a momentary adverse wireless environment.
[0056] Specifically, the terminal first determines whether the unavailability state is predictable. For predictable cases (e.g., the key's validity duration is about to expire), the terminal will initiate a switch to the precise point positioning service sometime before the actual service failure (e.g., nearing expiration) and before a predetermined future time. For unpredictable cases (e.g., suddenly failing to receive a posSIB or parsing failure), the terminal can start an expiration timer the moment it confirms the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable. After the timer starts, the terminal continuously monitors whether the RTK service has recovered (e.g., receiving a decryptable posSIB again, or entering a valid service area / time period). This entire timing process provides a crucial recovery window for potential momentary service fluctuations or brief interruptions.
[0057] For example, if the unavailability of the real-time differential positioning service is predictable, then a switch to precise point positioning (PPS) service will be initiated before a certain future time. In a real-world scenario, this could mean that the terminal can predict that it will enter a period where the 5G real-time differential positioning service will be unavailable, and the terminal will initiate satellite PPS service in advance. In this scenario, the terminal determines that the RTK service will fail at a certain future time based on known deterministic information—such as enable time information parsed from an encrypted dataset (e.g., the validity duration is about to expire). The terminal initiates the switch to PPS service at an appropriate time before the actual service interruption (i.e., before the certain future time), thereby effectively avoiding the interruption of the positioning service.
[0058] If the unavailability of the real-time differential positioning service is unpredictable, an invalid timer is started upon detecting service unavailability. In real-world scenarios, the terminal may not anticipate entering a state where the 5G real-time differential positioning service becomes unusable. The terminal can activate the Invalid Timer, a feature added in this embodiment, upon its initial inability to acquire or resolve the PosSIB. In this scenario, the service interruption is caused by sudden or uncertain factors, such as the terminal moving to an area without 5G coverage, a momentary wireless link failure, or an initial failure to decrypt the Position Assist Information Block (posSIB) without a clear indication from the key validity check. Upon first confirming service unavailability, the terminal immediately starts the invalid timer and enters a buffer period awaiting recovery.
[0059] The timing of handover is determined differently based on whether the unavailability is predictable. This differentiated strategy achieves a smooth handover process and efficient resource utilization. For predictable unavailability (such as the end of a service period), initiating the handover to Precise Point Positioning (PPS) service well in advance means that the terminal can initiate preparatory processes for handover to the PPP system (such as satellite login and key acquisition) in parallel before the RTK service is interrupted. This allows the PPP service to be ready or about to be ready when the RTK service officially terminates, thus greatly shortening the service handover interval and achieving a seamless experience with zero interruption. For unpredictable unavailability (such as sudden signal loss), the immediate initiation of a timer provides a crucial anti-interference buffer period. Brief interruptions can be recovered before the timer expires, thus avoiding unnecessary and time-consuming satellite mode switching triggered by instantaneous network jitter, improving overall system stability and user experience, and saving unnecessary satellite signaling overhead.
[0060] Step 130: During the switch to precise point positioning service, monitor whether the connected network resumes providing real-time differential positioning service, and if the network resumes providing real-time differential positioning service, switch back to real-time differential positioning service.
[0061] Precise point positioning (PPS) service refers to a technology and service where a terminal achieves high-precision absolute positioning by receiving precise satellite orbit corrections and clock corrections directly broadcast by satellites (such as BeiDou GEO satellites) and combining them with its own GNSS observations. It has wide coverage, does not rely on terrestrial networks, but requires satellite resources. When the failure timer expires and it is confirmed that the RTK service is unavailable and unrecoverable, the terminal officially initiates a switching action. Specifically, it can initiate a registration or login request to the satellite system (assuming a subscription has been signed), obtain the decryption key for the PPP service, and begin receiving and processing the precise orbit and clock correction data broadcast by the satellite, thereby switching the positioning mode to PPP to ensure the continuity of high-precision positioning.
[0062] Among these, monitoring whether the connected network has resumed providing real-time differential positioning services refers to the terminal continuously or periodically checking whether the obstacles that previously caused the RTK service to be unavailable have been eliminated during the use of PPP services. Key checkpoints include: whether the terminal has re-entered the 5G network coverage area, whether the serving cell is broadcasting the necessary posSIB, and whether the current time and location are within the enabled range of a valid encrypted dataset.
[0063] In some exemplary embodiments, monitoring whether the connected network has resumed providing real-time differential positioning services includes: Monitor whether the cell currently providing services to the terminal device is broadcasting real-time differential positioning assistance information.
[0064] Monitoring whether the current serving cell is broadcasting real-time differential positioning assistance information is a direct and crucial technical means for the terminal to determine whether the connected network has resumed providing real-time differential positioning (RTK) services. Specifically, real-time differential positioning assistance information is encoded into specific types of Positioning System Information Blocks (posSIBs) in the 5G network air interface, such as posSibType1-5 for transmitting base station information, posSibType1-6 for general observation information, and posSibType2-12 for detailed observation values. The terminal periodically reads the system information scheduling list (posSchedulingInfoList) broadcast by the serving cell and checks whether the list contains the aforementioned required posSIB types. If the list contains all these types, it indicates that the current cell is broadcasting a complete real-time differential positioning assistance data stream through the air interface, meaning that the network side has resumed or has the capability to provide RTK services in this cell; otherwise, it indicates that the cell does not provide or broadcast such service data. This monitoring step is the primary prerequisite for triggering subsequent handover procedures (such as checking key validity to determine a valid encrypted dataset or applying for a new key set to obtain a new valid encrypted dataset).
[0065] In some exemplary embodiments, switching back to the real-time differential positioning service includes: Determine whether a valid encrypted dataset corresponding to the current network conditions exists locally on the terminal device; If no valid encrypted dataset exists, a request is sent to the network side to obtain a new valid encrypted dataset. If a valid encrypted dataset exists, the location assistance information is decrypted based on the valid encrypted dataset, and the system switches back to real-time differential positioning service.
[0066] Initiating a request to the network side to obtain a new valid encrypted dataset refers to the process by which a terminal actively triggers the establishment of a service connection with the 5G network when it discovers that the RTK service conditions have been restored but it does not have a valid decryption key. Its purpose is to apply for a new key corresponding to the current region / time period, that is, to obtain a new valid encrypted dataset.
[0067] For example, in the monitoring and decision-making process for switching from precise point positioning service back to real-time differential positioning service, the terminal continuously performs the following steps while using precise point positioning service: Step 1, monitor recovery conditions. The terminal continues to read the system information of the serving cell (specifically, checking whether the posSchedulingInfoList contains the necessary positioning assistance information block types, such as posSibType1-5, posSibType1-6, posSibType2-12) to determine whether the 5G network has resumed broadcasting real-time differential positioning assistance information, that is, to monitor whether the conditions for using real-time differential positioning services have been met.
[0068] Step 2, execute the handover decision. Based on the monitoring results and the locally stored key status, the terminal performs a differentiated handover, including: Direct switching: If the conditions are detected to have recovered, and the encrypted dataset (i.e. the key) stored locally on the terminal is still valid based on its list of enabled geographic regions and the enabled time information, the terminal directly uses the valid dataset to decrypt the received real-time differential positioning assistance information and performs a switch from precise point positioning service to real-time differential positioning service, while initiating a deregistration process with the satellite system.
[0069] Switching back after requesting a new key: If conditions are detected to have recovered, but the encrypted dataset stored on the terminal is invalid (e.g., the current geographical location is not within its enabled area) or does not exist, the terminal must first request a new valid encrypted dataset from the network side. This service request identifies its intent to request a real-time differential positioning service key by carrying a specific service establishment reason value (i.e., mo-Rtkkey as defined in the disclosure document) in the Radio Resource Control (RRC) Connection Establishment Request message (RRCSetupRequest). After successfully obtaining the new valid encrypted dataset, the terminal uses the dataset to decrypt the positioning assistance information and switches back to the real-time differential positioning service.
[0070] Figure 5 This is a simplified signaling diagram illustrating the Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection establishment process according to an exemplary embodiment of this application. This process forms the basis for any service communication between the terminal (UE) and the 5G network. It begins with the terminal sending an "RRCSetupRequest" message to the network and ends with the network replying with an "RRCSetup" message and the terminal confirming completion with an "RRCSetupComplete" message. When the terminal needs to request a new key for Real-Time Differential Positioning (RTK) services from the network, it will carry a specific new enumeration value (such as mo-Rtkkey) in the "EstablishmentCause" element of the "RRCSetupRequest" message when initiating the service request. Therefore, Figure 5 The standard process shown is the underlying signaling framework upon which the step described in this application, which involves initiating a service request to the network side with a specific service establishment reason value, relies. This application injects new service semantics into specific information elements within this framework, thereby achieving an efficient and explicit key request triggering mechanism without altering the basic process.
[0071] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the signaling process by which a terminal, as provided in an exemplary embodiment of this application, initiates service deregistration with the satellite system after successfully switching from Precise Point Positioning (PPP) service back to Real-Time Differential Positioning (RTK) service. Figure 7As shown, this process typically involves only the terminal sending a "service termination request" command to the satellite system, and the satellite system responding with a "service termination response" to confirm the deregistration is complete. This process is one of the key steps in realizing the seamless and resource-saving core concepts of this application. Specifically, by promptly and proactively terminating the satellite PPP service after performing a reverse handover (PPP -> RTK), the terminal can immediately stop receiving precise orbit and clock correction data broadcast by the satellite, thereby releasing valuable satellite communication resources and potentially stopping related billing. This ensures that the terminal only occupies satellite resources when necessary (i.e., when RTK service is unavailable), perfectly achieving the final technical effect of optimizing network resource utilization while ensuring positioning continuity (Seamlessness) in this application.
[0072] In some exemplary embodiments, a request is made to the network side to obtain a new valid encrypted dataset, including: The Radio Resource Control Connection Establishment Request message carries a specific service establishment reason value used to request a real-time differential positioning service key; Send the Radio Resource Control Connection Establishment Request message to the network side to obtain a new valid encrypted dataset.
[0073] The specific service establishment reason value refers to a new enumeration value defined in the EstablishmentCause request element of the Radio Resource Control (RRC) connection establishment, used to explicitly identify that the intention of this service establishment is to request a real-time differential positioning key. In this embodiment, the example is mo-Rtkkey.
[0074] Figure 6 A complete signaling sequence diagram of a terminal obtaining a real-time differential positioning service key through a specific service request, provided as an exemplary embodiment of this application. (See diagram below.) Figure 6As shown, when a terminal (UE) needs to request a new key due to the lack of a valid local key, the process begins with sending a "Service Request" to the network carrying a specific service establishment reason value (such as mo-Rtkkey). The access network (gNB) and the Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) establish a service context based on this. Subsequently, the AMF initiates a capability request to the Location Management Function (LMF) via a location service protocol (such as the LPP protocol), and the terminal reports its location capabilities. Crucially, after confirming the terminal's capabilities and user subscription information, the LMF generates a cryptographic dataset (ciphering keys) containing a newly added "InvalidTimer" field and provides it to the AMF via the "LPP Provide Rtkkey" message. The AMF then stores and synchronizes the key on the core network side via the "NImf_Broadcast_CipheringKeyData Notify" message and finally distributes it to the terminal. This diagram fully reveals the end-to-end signaling details behind the step in this application where a request is made to the network side to obtain a new valid encrypted dataset, involving AMF and LMF interaction, capability negotiation, and final key generation and transmission.
[0075] Specifically, while using PPP service, the terminal does not abandon RTK service. It periodically monitors the conditions for RTK service recovery, and its main actions include: reading the system information of the serving cell to confirm whether it contains the necessary posSIB scheduling information (posSchedulingInfoList); and checking whether its stored encrypted dataset has become valid again due to terminal movement or the passage of time (i.e., the current location and time fall within the enabling range of a certain stored dataset). If the conditions are restored and a valid dataset exists, the terminal directly uses the key to decrypt the broadcast posSIB, completes the differential positioning calculation, and simultaneously deregisters the PPP service with the satellite system, thus seamlessly switching back to RTK service. If the conditions are restored but no valid dataset is found (for example, entering a new contracted area), the terminal needs to proactively initiate a special request to the network. This request informs the network (AMF) that its intention is to request an RTK service key by carrying a specific service establishment reason value (such as mo-Rtkkey) in the RRC connection establishment request message. Based on this, the network side triggers a key application and distribution process (such as through LMF). After obtaining the new valid encrypted dataset, the terminal can use it to decrypt posSIB and eventually switch back to RTK service.
[0076] First, after switching to precise point positioning service, the system continuously monitors the recovery conditions of real-time differential positioning service. Based on the existence of a valid encrypted dataset, it executes a switchback strategy, either by directly switching or by requesting a key first. This approach achieves closed-loop management of bidirectional, intelligent, and on-demand recovery of positioning modes. Continuous monitoring ensures that the terminal can immediately perceive the availability of a better RTK service. By first checking whether a valid key exists locally (based on region and time), the terminal can instantly complete the switchback when conditions are met, minimizing the time spent using suboptimal PPP services and improving overall service quality and user experience. When the local key is invalid, triggering the request process ensures the completeness and reliability of service recovery, enabling the terminal to regain RTK capabilities in any new eligible region. The entire strategy demonstrates the efficiency of terminal autonomous management and reduces reliance on user operations.
[0077] Secondly, when a new key needs to be requested, a dedicated service establishment reason value (such as mo-Rtkkey) is included in the RRC connection establishment request message to identify the request intent. This method provides an efficient and clear signaling identification mechanism for the dynamic application of location service keys. The addition of a dedicated reason value allows the network side (such as AMF) to quickly and accurately identify the terminal's specific service request, thus triggering the corresponding key issuance process without parsing higher-level service content. This significantly simplifies signaling interaction, reduces processing latency and signaling overhead, and makes the process of quickly switching from PPP back to RTK smoother and more efficient. At the same time, this design requires minimal modification to existing protocols, is implemented by extending enumeration values, and has good backward compatibility and standardization feasibility.
[0078] Figure 4 This diagram illustrates the signaling process by which a terminal, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of this application, initiates authentication registration and obtains Precise Point Positioning (PPP) service from a satellite system after the invalid timer expires. The diagram specifically illustrates two scenarios triggering this process: Predictable handover: When the terminal can predict that the Real-Time Differential Positioning (RTK) service will soon become unavailable (e.g., the contracted period is about to end), it initiates an authentication request and a PPP auxiliary data request to the satellite system before the service is actually interrupted, and receives orbit and clock correction data broadcast by the satellite, thereby completing PPP service registration and handover preparation in advance. Unpredictable handover (based on an invalid timer): When the terminal unpredictably enters an RTK service unavailable state due to unforeseen reasons (e.g., inability to receive or parse posSIB), it first starts and waits for the invalid timer to expire. After the timer expires, it confirms that the Real-Time Differential Positioning service remains unavailable, and then triggers the same registration and PPP data acquisition process with the satellite system as described in the "predictable handover" scenario.
[0079] This process clearly demonstrates the specific network interaction actions performed by the terminal and the peer in step 130 (switching from RTK to PPP after the failure timer expires). Figure 4 This paper fully presents the specific implementation of the "switching" action proposed in this application on the satellite side, namely the complete closed loop from judgment (based on timer) to execution (satellite registration and data acquisition), thereby organically connecting the switching control mechanism of this invention with the existing satellite PPP service protocol and ensuring the continuity of high-precision positioning services.
[0080] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates a comprehensive schematic of the seamless switching system concept and signaling interaction for positioning services, integrating core innovations and key processes, provided as an exemplary embodiment of this application. The left side of the diagram shows the network side (LMF) sending an encryption key to the terminal for decrypting real-time differential positioning auxiliary data via the Nimf_Broadcast_CipheringKeyData Notify and subsequent Registration Accept messages. This process clearly marks the newly added "Invalid Timer" field in the key and emphasizes its association with user subscription information (provided by the UDM) and its enabling scope and time. The middle of the diagram compares two triggering mechanisms for switching to Precise Point Positioning (PPP): one is a predictable mechanism, where the terminal anticipates the unavailability of the real-time differential (RTK) service based on the subscription enabling time and initiates registration and data acquisition for the satellite PPP service in advance; the other is an unpredictable mechanism, where the terminal initiates registration for the PPP service after the newly added Invalid Timer expires. The right side of the diagram shows the terminal continuously monitoring whether the 5G network has resumed RTK service (e.g., entering the subscription enabling time) during the PPP service period. If recovery is detected and there is no valid local key, a Service Request carrying a specific service establishment reason value (mo-Rtkkey) is initiated to request a new key from the network (LPP Provide Rtkkey). After successfully obtaining the key, the system switches back to RTK positioning.
[0081] The positioning service switching method provided in this application adds enabling condition information (such as a list of effective service areas (TA) and an effective time period) and an expiration timer field to the encrypted dataset used to decrypt real-time differential positioning auxiliary information, providing the terminal with two criteria for determining service unavailability. When the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable, the terminal proactively predicts and triggers the switch in advance based on the enabling condition information, or triggers the switch after the expiration timer expires. Subsequently, while using the precise single-point positioning service, the terminal continuously monitors whether the connected network has resumed providing real-time differential positioning service, and initiates a back-switch process when recovery is detected. This dual-trigger mechanism ensures the intelligence and reliability of the switch from ground differential positioning to satellite precise positioning, avoiding service interruption. Moreover, the closed-loop monitoring and back-switch mechanism achieve seamless connection between the two high-precision positioning services, ensuring the continuity of positioning across all scenarios while guiding the terminal to prioritize the use of ground network resources, thereby optimizing the overall system's resource utilization efficiency.
[0082] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a location service switching device 900 provided for an exemplary embodiment of this application. (See diagram below.) Figure 9 As shown, the location service switching device 900 includes: an acquisition module 910, a timing module 920, and a switching module 930, wherein: The acquisition module 910 is used to acquire an encrypted dataset for decrypting real-time differential positioning auxiliary information, wherein the encrypted dataset includes an expiration timer and enable condition information; The switching module 920 is used to initiate a switch to the precise point positioning service according to the failure timer or the enable condition information when the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable. The monitoring and switchback module 930 is used to monitor whether the connected network has resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service during the switch to the precise point positioning service, and to switch back to the real-time differential positioning service if the network is detected to have resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service.
[0083] The positioning service switching device provided in this application provides two criteria for determining service unavailability to the terminal by adding enabling condition information (such as a list of effective service areas (TA) and an effective time period) and an expiration timer field to the encrypted dataset used for decrypting real-time differential positioning auxiliary information. When the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable, the terminal proactively predicts and triggers the switch in advance based on the enabling condition information, or triggers the switch after the expiration timer expires. Subsequently, during the use of the precise single-point positioning service, the terminal continuously monitors whether the connected network has resumed providing real-time differential positioning service, and initiates a back-switch process when recovery is detected. This dual-trigger mechanism ensures the intelligence and reliability of the switch from ground differential positioning to satellite precise positioning, avoiding service interruption. Moreover, the closed-loop monitoring and back-switch mechanism achieve seamless connection between the two high-precision positioning services, ensuring the continuity of positioning across all scenarios while guiding the terminal to prioritize the use of ground network resources, thereby optimizing the overall system's resource utilization efficiency.
[0084] Optionally, the switching module 920 is specifically used for: If it is determined based on the enabling condition information that the real-time differential positioning service will be unavailable at a predetermined future time, then a switch to the precise point positioning service will be initiated before that predetermined future time; or, If the real-time differential positioning service becomes unavailable due to unforeseen reasons, the failure timer is started, and after the failure timer expires, a switch to the precise point positioning service is initiated.
[0085] Optionally, when the monitoring and back-off module 930 monitors whether the connected network has resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service, it specifically includes: Monitor whether the cell currently providing services to the terminal device is broadcasting the real-time differential positioning assistance information.
[0086] Optionally, when the monitoring and switchback module 930 switches back to the real-time differential positioning service, it is specifically used for: Determine whether a valid encrypted dataset corresponding to the current network conditions exists locally on the terminal device; If no valid encrypted dataset exists, a request is sent to the network side to obtain a new valid encrypted dataset; If the valid encrypted dataset exists, the positioning assistance information is decrypted based on the valid encrypted dataset, and the system switches back to the real-time differential positioning service.
[0087] Optionally, when the monitoring and back-off module 930 initiates a request to the network side to obtain a new valid encrypted dataset, it is specifically used for: The Radio Resource Control Connection Establishment Request message carries a specific service establishment reason value used to request a real-time differential positioning service key; Send the Radio Resource Control Connection Establishment Request message to the network side to obtain a new valid encrypted dataset.
[0088] Optionally, the encrypted dataset may also include a list of enabled geographic regions and enable time information; When the switching module 920 determines, based on the enabling condition information, that the real-time differential positioning service will be unavailable at a predetermined future time, it is specifically used for: Based on whether the current geographical location is within the list of enabled geographic regions at the determined future time, and whether the current time and / or the determined future time are within the range defined by the enabling time information, it is determined whether the real-time differential positioning service is available at the determined future time.
[0089] Optionally, the encrypted dataset is a Ciphering dataset structure that conforms to the definition of the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) protocol; The invalid timer is the newly added Invalid Timer field in the Ciphering data set.
[0090] Location service switching device 900 can achieve Figures 1-8 For details of the method implementation examples, please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 1-8 The location service switching method shown in the embodiment will not be described in detail.
[0091] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electronic device provided as an exemplary embodiment of this application. For example... Figure 10 As shown, the device includes a memory 101 and a processor 102.
[0092] Memory 101 is used to store computer programs and can be configured to store various other data to support operation on the computing device. Examples of this data include instructions for any application or method operating on the computing device, contact data, phone book data, messages, images, videos, etc.
[0093] Processor 102, coupled to memory 101, is configured to execute a computer program in memory 101 for: acquiring an encrypted dataset for decrypting real-time differential positioning assistance information, the encrypted dataset including a failure timer and enable condition information; initiating a switch to the precise point positioning service based on the failure timer or the enable condition information when the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable; during the switch to the precise point positioning service, monitoring whether the connected network has resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service, and if the network is detected to have resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service, switching back to the real-time differential positioning service.
[0094] The electronic device provided in this application provides two criteria for determining service unavailability by adding enabling condition information (such as a list of effective service areas (TA) and an effective time period) and an expiration timer field to the encrypted dataset used for decrypting real-time differential positioning auxiliary information. When the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable, the terminal proactively predicts and triggers a switch in advance based on the enabling condition information, or triggers a switch after the expiration timer expires. Subsequently, during the use of the precise point positioning service, the terminal continuously monitors whether the connected network has resumed providing real-time differential positioning service, and initiates a back-switch process when recovery is detected. This dual-trigger mechanism ensures the intelligence and reliability of the switch from ground differential positioning to satellite precise positioning, avoiding service interruption. Moreover, the closed-loop monitoring and back-switch mechanism achieve seamless connection between the two high-precision positioning services, ensuring the continuity of positioning across all scenarios while guiding the terminal to prioritize the use of ground network resources, thereby optimizing the overall system's resource utilization efficiency.
[0095] Furthermore, such as Figure 10 As shown, the electronic device also includes other components such as a communication component 103, a display 104, a power supply component 105, and an audio component 106. Figure 10 The diagram only shows some components and does not mean that the electronic device includes only these components. Figure 10 The components shown. Additionally, depending on the implementation of the traffic playback device, Figure 10 The components within the dashed box are optional, not mandatory. For example, when an electronic device is implemented as a terminal device such as a smartphone, tablet, or desktop computer, it may include... Figure 10 The components within the dashed box; when the electronic device is implemented as a server-side device such as a conventional server, cloud server, data center, or server array, it may be excluded. Figure 10 The component within the dashed box.
[0096] The above Figure 10 The communication component is configured to facilitate wired or wireless communication between the device containing the communication component and other devices. The device containing the communication component can access wireless networks based on communication standards, such as WiFi, 2G, or 3G, or combinations thereof. In one exemplary embodiment, the communication component receives broadcast signals or broadcast-related information from an external broadcast management system via a broadcast channel. In one exemplary embodiment, the communication component may further include a Near Field Communication (NFC) module, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, Infrared Data Association (IrDA) technology, Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology, Bluetooth (BT) technology, etc.
[0097] The above Figure 10The memory in the memory can be implemented by any class of volatile or non-volatile storage devices or combinations thereof, such as static random access memory (SRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic storage, flash memory, magnetic disk or optical disk.
[0098] The above Figure 10 The display includes a screen, which may include a liquid crystal display (LCD) and a touch panel (TP). If the screen includes a touch panel, the screen can be implemented as a touchscreen to receive input signals from the user. The touch panel includes one or more touch sensors to sense touches, swipes, and gestures on the touch panel. The touch sensors can sense not only the boundaries of the touch or swipe action, but also the duration and pressure associated with the touch or swipe operation.
[0099] The above Figure 10 The power supply component provides power to the various components of the device in which it resides. The power supply component may include a power management system, one or more power supplies, and other components associated with generating, managing, and distributing power to the device in which it resides.
[0100] The above Figure 10 The audio component can be configured to output and / or input audio signals. For example, the audio component includes a microphone (MIC) configured to receive external audio signals when the device containing the audio component is in an operating mode, such as call mode, recording mode, or voice recognition mode. The received audio signals can be further stored in memory or transmitted via a communication component. In some embodiments, the audio component also includes a speaker for outputting audio signals.
[0101] Accordingly, embodiments of this application also provide a computer-readable storage medium storing a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, enables the processor to implement the steps in the above-described location service switching method embodiments.
[0102] Accordingly, this application also provides a computer program product, which stores instructions that, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to implement the steps in the location service switching method embodiment provided in this application.
[0103] Those skilled in the art will recognize that the units and algorithm steps of the various examples described in conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein can be implemented in electronic hardware, or a combination of computer software and electronic hardware. Whether these functions are implemented in hardware or software depends on the specific application and design constraints of the technical solution. Those skilled in the art can use different methods to implement the described functions for each specific application, but such implementation should not be considered beyond the scope of this application.
[0104] Those skilled in the art will clearly understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.
[0105] In the several embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems, apparatuses, and methods can be implemented in other ways. For example, the apparatus embodiments described above are merely illustrative; for instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between apparatuses or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.
[0106] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; that is, they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.
[0107] In addition, the functional units in the various embodiments of this application can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit.
[0108] If the aforementioned functions are implemented as software functional units and sold or used as independent products, they can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium. Based on this understanding, the technical solution of this application, in essence, or the part that contributes to the prior art, or a portion of the technical solution, can be embodied in the form of a software product. This computer software product is stored in a storage medium and includes several instructions to cause a computer device (which may be a personal computer, server, or network device, etc.) to execute all or part of the steps of the methods described in the various embodiments of this application. The aforementioned storage medium includes various media capable of storing program code, such as USB flash drives, portable hard drives, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), magnetic disks, or optical disks.
[0109] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.
Claims
1. A method for switching location services, characterized in that, The method is applied to terminal devices that support precise single-point positioning and real-time differential positioning, including: Obtain an encrypted dataset for decrypting real-time differential positioning auxiliary information, the encrypted dataset including an expiration timer and enable condition information; When the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable, a switch to the precise point positioning service is initiated based on the failure timer or the enable condition information. During the switch to the precise point positioning service, it is monitored whether the connected network has resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service, and if the network is detected to have resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service, the switch back to the real-time differential positioning service is performed.
2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of initiating the switch to the precise single-point positioning service based on the failure timer or the enable condition information includes: If, based on the enabling condition information, it is determined that the real-time differential positioning service will be unavailable at a predetermined future time, then a switch to the precise point positioning service will be initiated before that predetermined future time; or, If the real-time differential positioning service becomes unavailable due to unforeseen reasons, the failure timer is started, and after the failure timer expires, a switch to the precise point positioning service is initiated.
3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The monitoring of whether the connected network has resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service includes: Monitor whether the cell currently providing services to the terminal device is broadcasting the real-time differential positioning assistance information.
4. The method according to claim 1 or 3, characterized in that, The switching back to the real-time differential positioning service includes: Determine whether a valid encrypted dataset corresponding to the current network conditions exists locally on the terminal device; If no valid encrypted dataset exists, a request is sent to the network side to obtain a new valid encrypted dataset; If the valid encrypted dataset exists, the positioning assistance information is decrypted based on the valid encrypted dataset, and the system switches back to the real-time differential positioning service.
5. The method according to claim 4, characterized in that, The step of initiating a request to the network side to obtain a new valid encrypted dataset includes: The Radio Resource Control Connection Establishment Request message carries a specific service establishment reason value used to request a real-time differential positioning service key; Send the Radio Resource Control Connection Establishment Request message to the network side to obtain a new valid encrypted dataset.
6. The method according to claim 5, characterized in that, The enabling condition information includes a list of enabling geographic regions and enabling time information; determining that the real-time differential positioning service will be unavailable at a predetermined future time based on the enabling condition information includes: Based on whether the current geographical location is within the list of enabled geographic regions at the determined future time, and whether the current time and / or the determined future time are within the range defined by the enabling time information, it is determined whether the real-time differential positioning service is available at the determined future time.
7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The encrypted dataset is a Ciphering dataset structure that conforms to the definition of the 3rd Generation Partnership Program (3GPP) protocol. The invalid timer is the newly added Invalid Timer field in the Ciphering data set.
8. A location service switching device, characterized in that, include: The acquisition module is used to acquire an encrypted dataset for decrypting real-time differential positioning auxiliary information, wherein the encrypted dataset includes an expiration timer and enable condition information; The switching module is used to initiate a switch to the precise point positioning service based on the failure timer or the enable condition information when the real-time differential positioning service is unavailable. The monitoring and switchback module is used to monitor whether the connected network has resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service during the switch to the precise point positioning service, and to switch back to the real-time differential positioning service if the network is detected to have resumed providing the real-time differential positioning service.
9. A computer-readable storage medium, characterized in that, It stores a computer program thereon, wherein the computer program, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of the method according to any one of claims 1-7.
10. A computer program product, characterized in that, Includes a computer program / instructions that, when executed by a processor, implement the steps of the method described in any one of claims 1-7.