Selection of positioning methods with multiple requirements

CN122996345APending Publication Date: 2026-10-27NOKIA TECHNOLOGIES OY
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202580023722.5
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2024-04-05
Filing Date
2025-03-27
Publication Date
2026-10-27

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0013]根据一些方面,提供了独立权利要求的主题。在从属权利要求的主题中提供了一些另外的方面。

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Abstract

An apparatus comprising at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: receiving, with the apparatus, configuration information for a positioning operation, wherein the configuration information comprises information about at least two different positioning technologies (406); and initiating, with the apparatus, at least one of the different positioning technologies using the configuration information (410 or 412).
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Description

Cross-references to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 574947, filed April 5, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Technical Field

[0002] The exemplary and non-limiting embodiments generally relate to positioning, and more specifically, to positioning in relation to user equipment. Background Technology

[0003] The location of a user equipment in the network is known by the user equipment itself. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The following overview is intended as an example only. This overview is not intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0005] According to one aspect, an example apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: receive configuration information for positioning operations using the apparatus, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies; and use the configuration information to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies using the apparatus.

[0006] According to another aspect, an example method is provided, comprising: receiving configuration information for positioning operations using a device, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies; and using the device to use the configuration information to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies.

[0007] According to another aspect, an example apparatus is provided, comprising: components for receiving configuration information for positioning operations using the apparatus, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies; and components for using the configuration information to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies.

[0008] According to another aspect, an example of a device-readable program storage device is provided, the program storage device tangibly embodying an instruction program executable by the device for performing operations including: using the device to receive configuration information for positioning operations, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies; and using the device to use the configuration information to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies.

[0009] According to another aspect, an example apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: determine configuration information for positioning operations with respect to a user equipment, wherein the determination is based at least in part on capability information about the user equipment received by the apparatus; and send the configuration information to the user equipment, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies, wherein the configuration information is configured for use by the user equipment to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies.

[0010] According to another aspect, an example method is provided, comprising: determining configuration information for positioning operations of a user equipment, wherein the determination is based at least in part on capability information of the user equipment received by the device; and sending the configuration information to the user equipment, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies, wherein the configuration information is configured to be used by the user equipment to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies.

[0011] According to another aspect, an example apparatus is provided, comprising: components for determining configuration information for positioning operations of a user equipment, wherein the determination is based at least in part on capability information of the user equipment received by the apparatus; and components for sending the configuration information to the user equipment, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies, wherein the configuration information is configured to be used by the user equipment to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies.

[0012] According to another aspect, an example of a device-readable program storage device is provided, the program storage device tangibly embodying an instruction program executable by the device for performing operations including: determining configuration information regarding a user equipment's positioning operations, wherein the determination is at least partially based on capability information about the user equipment received by the device; and sending configuration information to the user equipment, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies, wherein the configuration information is configured to be used by the user equipment to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies.

[0013] The subject matter of the independent claims is provided in several respects. Further aspects are provided in the subject matter of the dependent claims. Attached Figure Description

[0014] The foregoing aspects and other features are explained in the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 This is a block diagram of one possible and non-limiting example system in which exemplary embodiments can be practiced; Figure 2 This is a diagram showing example components in the control plane (CP) and user plane (UP); Figure 3 This is a diagram showing an example of an AIML model with inputs and outputs for AIML localization; Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example method; Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example method; Figure 6 This is a diagram illustrating the example method. Detailed Implementation

[0015] The following abbreviations, which may appear in the specification and / or drawings, are defined as follows: 3GPP Third Generation Partnership Project 5G (Fifth Generation) 5GC 5G Core Network AF Application Functions AI (Artificial Intelligence) AIML or AI / ML Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning AMF Access and Mobility Management Functions AUSF Authentication Server Functionality CIR channel impulse response CP control plane CU (Centralized Unit) DL downlink DN Data Network DU distribution unit eNB (or eNodeB) Evolved Node B (e.g., LTE base station) EN-DC E-UTRA-NR Dual Connection The en-gNB or En-gNB is a node that provides NR user plane and control plane protocol termination to the UE and acts as a secondary node in the EN-DC. E-UTRA, or Evolved Universal Terrestrial Radio Access, is also known as LTE radio access technology. gNB (or gNodeB) is a base station used for 5G / NR, that is, a node that provides NR user plane and control plane protocol termination to the UE and connects to the 5GC via the NG interface. I / F interface LMF location management function LOS (Location of View) LTE Long Term Evolution ML Machine Learning MME (Mobility Management Entity) NEF Network Open Functions ng or NG next generation ng-eNB or NG-eNB, the next generation of eNB NLOS (Non-line-of-sight) NR New Radio NRF Network Repository Functionality NSSF Network Slice Selection Function N / W or NW network PCF policy control function PDCP (Packet Data Convergence Protocol) PDP power delay distribution PRS Positioning Reference Signal RAN (Radio Access Network) Rel version Rel-18 Version 18 Rel-19 Version 19 RRH remote radio head end RRC Radio Resource Control RSRP reference signal received power RSRPP Reference Signal Received Power for Each Signal Path RSTD Reference Signal Timing Difference RU radio unit Rx receiver SDAP Service Data Adaptation Protocol SGW Service Gateway SMF Session Management Function TCI Transport Configuration Indicator TS Technical Specifications Tx transmitter UDM Unified Data Management UE (User Equipment) (e.g., wireless, typically mobile device) UL uplink UP User Interface UPF User Face Functions The features described in this article can be used for artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), localization, and performance requirements.

[0016] Go to Figure 1 The figure illustrates a block diagram of one possible and non-limiting example in which practical examples can be implemented. It shows a user equipment (UE) 110, a radio access network (RAN) node 170, and (multiple) network elements 190. Examples of network equipment, network devices, or network entities can be understood to include at least a portion, such as a transmit / receive point, a cell, a gNB, or a node. Figure 1In the example, User Equipment (UE) 110 wirelessly communicates with Wireless Network 100. The UE is a wireless device that can access Wireless Network 100. UE 110 includes one or more processors 120, one or more memories 125, and one or more transceivers 130 interconnected via one or more buses 127. Each of the one or more transceivers 130 includes a receiver Rx 132 and a transmitter Tx 133. The one or more buses 127 may be address, data, or control buses and may include any interconnection mechanism, such as a series of lines on a motherboard or integrated circuit, fiber optic cable, or other optical communication device. The one or more transceivers 130 are connected to one or more antennas 128. The one or more memories 125 include computer program code 123. UE 110 includes a module 140, which includes one or both of portions 140-1 and / or 140-2, and may be implemented in various ways. Module 140 may be implemented in hardware as module 140-1, such as being implemented as part of one or more processors 120. Module 140-1 can also be implemented as an integrated circuit or via other hardware such as a programmable gate array. In another example, module 140 can be implemented as module 140-2, which is implemented as computer program code 123 and executed by one or more processors 120. For example, one or more memories 125 and computer program code 123 can be configured to perform one or more operations as described herein with the user device 110 using one or more processors 120. UE 110 communicates with RAN node 170 via wireless link 111.

[0017] In this example, RAN node 170 is a base station that provides access to wireless network 100 for wireless devices such as UE 110. RAN node 170 can be, for example, a base station for 5G (also known as New Radio (NR)). In 5G, RAN node 170 can be an NG-RAN node, which is defined as a gNB or ng-eNB. A gNB is a node that provides NR user plane and control plane protocol termination to the UE and is connected to the 5GC (e.g., multiple network elements 190) via an NG interface. An ng-eNB is a node that provides E-UTRA user plane and control plane protocol termination to the UE and is connected to the 5GC via an NG interface. An NG-RAN node can include multiple gNBs, and can also include a centralized unit (CU) (gNB-CU) 196 and multiple distributed units (DUs) (gNB-DU), where DU 195 is shown. Note that a DU can include or be coupled to and control a radio unit (RU). The gNB-CU is a logical node that hosts the RRC, SDAP, and PDCP protocols of the gNB or the en-gNB, and controls the operation of one or more gNB-DUs. The gNB-CU terminates the F1 interface connected to the gNB-DU. The F1 interface is shown as reference numeral 198, although reference numeral 198 also shows the link between remote elements of RAN node 170 and centralized elements of RAN node 170 (such as between gNB-CU 196 and gNB-DU 195). The gNB-DU is a logical node that hosts the radio link control, media access control, and physical layer of the gNB or en-gNB, and its operation is partially controlled by the gNB-CU. One gNB-CU supports one or more cells. A cell is supported by only one gNB-DU. The gNB-DU terminates the F1 interface 198 connected to the gNB-CU. Note that DU 195 is considered to include transceiver 160, for example, as part of an RU; however, some examples may have transceiver 160 as part of a separate RU, for example, under the control of DU 195 and connected to DU 195. RAN node 170 may also be an eNB (evolved NodeB) base station for Long Term Evolution (LTE) or any other suitable base station or node.

[0018] RAN node 170 includes one or more processors 152, one or more memories 155, one or more network interfaces (N / WI / F) 161 interconnected via one or more buses 157, and one or more transceivers 160. Each of the one or more transceivers 160 includes a receiver Rx 162 and a transmitter Tx 163. The one or more transceivers 160 are connected to one or more antennas 158. The one or more memories 155 include computer program code 153. CU 196 may include one or more processors 152, memories 155, and network interfaces 161. Note that DU 195 may also contain its own memories and one or more processors and / or other hardware, but these are not shown.

[0019] RAN node 170 includes module 150, which includes one or both of portions 150-1 and / or 150-2, and can be implemented in various ways. Module 150 can be implemented in hardware as module 150-1, such as being implemented as part of one or more processors 152. Module 150-1 can also be implemented as an integrated circuit or by other hardware such as a programmable gate array. In another example, module 150 can be implemented as module 150-2, which is implemented as computer program code 153 and executed by one or more processors 152. For example, one or more memories 155 and computer program code 153 are configured, together with one or more processors 152, to enable RAN node 170 to perform one or more operations as described herein. Note that the functionality of module 150 can be distributed, such as distributed between DU 195 and CU 196, or implemented only in DU 195.

[0020] One or more network interfaces 161 communicate via a network, such as via links 176 and 131. Two or more gNBs 170 can communicate using, for example, link 176. Link 176 can be wired, wireless, or both, and can implement, for example, an Xn interface for 5G, an X2 interface for LTE, or other suitable interfaces for other standards.

[0021] One or more buses 157 may be address, data, or control buses and may include any interconnection mechanism, such as a series of lines on a motherboard or integrated circuit, optical fiber or other optical communication equipment, wireless channels, etc. For example, one or more transceivers 160 may be implemented as a remote radio head (RRH) 195 for LTE or a distributed unit (DU) 195 for a gNB implementation of 5G, wherein other elements of the RAN node 170 may be physically located in a different location from the RRH / DU, and one or more buses 157 may be partially implemented as, for example, fiber optic cables or other suitable network connections to connect other elements of the RAN node 170 (e.g., centralized unit (CU), gNB-CU) to the RRH / DU 195. Reference numeral 198 also indicates those suitable network links(s).

[0022] Note that the description in this document indicates that a "cell" performs a function; however, it should be clear that the equipment forming the cell will perform the function. A cell constitutes part of a base station. That is, each base station can have multiple cells. For example, for a single carrier frequency and associated bandwidth, there can be three cells, each covering one-third of a 360-degree area, such that the coverage area of ​​a single base station is approximately elliptical or circular. Furthermore, each cell can correspond to a single carrier, and a base station can use multiple carriers. Therefore, if there are two carriers, and each carrier has three 120-degree cells, then the base station has a total of six cells.

[0023] Wireless network 100 may include one or more network elements 190, which may include core network functions and provide connectivity to another network (such as a telephone network and / or a data communication network (e.g., the Internet)) via one or more links 181. Such core network functions for 5G may include access and mobility management functions (AMF) and / or user plane functions (UPF) and / or session management functions (SMF). Such core network functions for LTE may include MME (Mobility Management Entity) / SGW (Serving Gateway) functions. These are merely exemplary functions that can be supported by the network elements 190, and it is noted that both 5G and LTE functions may be supported. RAN node 170 is coupled to network element 190 via link 131. Link 131 may be implemented as, for example, an NG interface for 5G, or an S1 interface for LTE, or other suitable interfaces for other standards. Network element 190 includes one or more processors 175, one or more memories 171, and one or more network interfaces ((multiple) N / WI / F) 180 interconnected via one or more buses 185. One or more memories 171 include computer program code 173. The one or more memories 171 and computer program code 173 are configured to, together with one or more processors 175, cause the network element 190 to perform one or more operations.

[0024] Wireless network 100 can implement network virtualization, which is the process of combining hardware and software network resources and network functions into a single software-based managed entity (virtual network). Network virtualization involves platform virtualization, often combined with resource virtualization. Network virtualization is categorized as external, combining many networks or parts of networks into virtual units, or internal, providing network-like functionality to software containers on a single system. Note that the virtualized entities created by network virtualization are still implemented to some extent using hardware such as processors 152 or 175 and memories 155 and 171, and such virtualized entities also produce technical effects.

[0025] Computer-readable storage devices 125, 155, and 171 can be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and can be implemented using any suitable data storage technology, such as semiconductor-based memory devices, flash memory, magnetic storage devices and systems, optical storage devices and systems, fixed storage, and removable storage. Computer-readable storage devices 125, 155, and 171 can be components for performing storage functions. As a non-limiting example, processors 120, 152, and 175 can be of any type suitable for the local technical environment and can include one or more of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), and a processor based on a multi-core processor architecture. Processors 120, 152, and 175 can be components for performing functions such as controlling UE 110, RAN node 170, and other functions as described herein.

[0026] Typically, various embodiments of user equipment 110 may include, but are not limited to, cellular phones such as smartphones, tablet computers, personal digital assistants (PDAs) with wireless communication capabilities, portable computers with wireless communication capabilities, image capture devices such as digital cameras with wireless communication capabilities, gaming devices with wireless communication capabilities, music storage and playback devices with wireless communication capabilities, internet devices that allow wireless internet access and browsing, tablet computers with wireless communication capabilities, and portable units or terminals that include a combination of these functions.

[0027] Also refer to Figure 2 An example control plane (CP) may include, for example, the following: NSSF, NEF, NRF, PCF, UDM, AF, LMF, AMF, AUSF, and SMF. Furthermore, an example user plane (UP) may include UE, RAN, UPF, and DN. The data network DN (such as an external data network) may also include one or more application functions (AFs). Please note that this is merely an illustrative example illustrating some characteristics and is not intended to be limiting.

[0028] Location operations can occur at the UE, where the UE determines its location or position. Accuracy enhancement for location is one of the themes of AIML use cases in 3GPP Rel-19. Under the location theme, there are several sub-use cases, such as those identified in TR38.843: Select the following as representative sub-use cases: -Direct AI / ML localization: -AI / ML model output: UE location For example, fingerprint recognition based on channel observations as input to AI / ML models. -AI / ML assisted localization: -AI / ML model output: New measurements and / or enhancements to existing measurements For example, LOS / NLOS identification, measurement timing and / or angle, and measurement likelihood. More specifically, the following should be considered in the research: - Scenario 1: UE-based localization using a UE-side model, direct AI / ML localization, or AI / ML-assisted localization. - Scenario 2a: UE-assisted / LMF-based localization using UE-side model, AI / ML-assisted localization -Scenario 2b: UE-assisted / LMF-based localization using LMF-side model, direct AI / ML localization - Scenario 3a: NG-RAN node-assisted localization using gNB-side model, AI / ML-assisted localization - Scenario 3b: Using NG-RAN node-assisted localization with LMF side model, direct AI / ML localization. One-sided models, where inference is performed entirely at the UE or at the network, are preferred in Rel-18 SI.

[0029] The models mentioned above typically refer to AI or ML models that can be located at the UE (UE-side model). For example, the aforementioned AI or ML models can be located at network devices, such as the core network (CN), the LMF (LMF-side model), or the base station (BS) or gNB (gNB-side). As a physical layer aspect of AIML-based localization, model inference has been considered to have the following characteristics [TR38.843]. Model inference related: - For direct AI / ML localization (cases 2b and 3b), considering the performance impact and associated signaling overhead, the type of (multiple) measurements used as input to model inference. - Potential new measurements: CIR / PDP - Existing measurements: e.g., RSRP / RSRPP / RSTD Note: Details should be investigated regarding potential new measurements and / or potential enhancements to existing measurements.

[0030] - For AI / ML-assisted localization with UE-assisted (case 2a) and NG-RAN node-assisted localization (case 3a), the measurement report carries the model output to the LMF. - New measurement report: e.g., ToA, path phase - Existing measurement reports: e.g., RSTD, LOS / NLOS indicators, RSRPP - Enhancements to existing measurement reports: e.g., soft information / high resolution of RSTD. -Auxiliary signaling and processes to facilitate model inference for both the UE-side and network-side models. -RS Configuration Here, ToA will be the propagation time or time-of-flight (ToF) of the transmitted reference signal (e.g., a positioning reference signal). The path phase can be the phase value of a specific detection signal path based on the received positioning reference signal. For example, the phase value of the first detection path can be used. Depending on the use case and AIML model / function, multiple signal path phase values ​​and / or ToA can be used.

[0031] Specifically, conventional positioning technologies have specified performance requirements for several existing measurements, including PRS-RSRP, RSRPP, RSTD, etc. These conventional positioning technologies do not yet utilize AI / ML. Because the use of AI / ML-based positioning technologies is now being considered, features described below can be used to accommodate both conventional (non-AI / ML) and unconventional AI / ML positioning technologies. These are sometimes referred to below as conventional positioning modes or conventional positioning, and AI / ML positioning modes or AI / ML positioning. Therefore, with the development of (multiple) unconventional AI / ML positioning technologies, more than one mode is available for the UE for positioning, and features described below can be used to select, maintain, or switch between modes or positioning technologies. More specifically, conventional positioning technology can mean performing location estimation based on positioning measurements such as ToA / RSTD / Rx-Tx time difference / RSRP / RSRPP, where the measurements are obtained by the UE from a received positioning reference signal. The obtained measurements can be selected and / or filtered to run the location estimation algorithm based on measurement accuracy, RSRP, and / or specific measurement requirements, but the process and algorithm can still be part of conventional positioning technology.

[0032] Artificial intelligence (AI) typically involves using computer systems (such as those with processors and memory with software and / or hardware) that are capable of performing tasks that historically required human intelligence, such as making decisions and recognizing patterns. Machine learning (also known as predictive analytics) can involve computers (such as those with processors and memory with software and / or firmware) discovering how they can perform tasks without being explicitly programmed to do so; it can involve computers learning from provided data to enable them to perform specific tasks(s).

[0033] For AIML-based positioning, Figure 3The AIML model shown is a structure with one set of inputs and another set of outputs. The inputs to an AIML model can include any dataset, such as localization-related measurements, such as RSTD measurements. Furthermore, the outputs of an AIML model can be any information that helps identify the location of a particular UE. For example, the output of an AIML model could be the coordinates of the UE in AIML-based direct localization.

[0034] In scenario 1, the AIML model resides within the UE. For example, the UE collects data as input to the AIML model. This input data could be downlink (DL) measurements, such as RSTD. The UE then performs inference functions using the AIML model. The inference output based on the AIML model could be the UE's coordinates.

[0035] In scenario 2a, the AIML model resides within the UE. For example, the UE uses an AIML model with received signals as input. The output of the AIML model can then be an inferred measurement. For instance, the output can be presented as a report in the form of an existing measurement. The output is sent from the UE to the LMF. Therefore, based on the reported measurements, the LMF determines the UE's location.

[0036] Therefore, for the UE-side model in AIML-based localization, there are basically performance requirements for the output of the AIML model.

[0037] Conventional positioning techniques have defined a fixed set of performance requirements for measurements. However, when AIML functionality is incorporated into positioning techniques, the output of the AIML functionality may not be describable with a single fixed set of performance requirements. For example, in cases 1 and 2a assuming a UE-side model (the model on the UE side), conventional measurements can become inputs to the AIML functionality, and new types of outputs, such as the UE's coordinates, are defined. Furthermore, the inputs to the AIML functionality need to be configured. Depending on the UE's capabilities or radio conditions, this new type of output and input configuration can have multiple requirements. Moreover, with AIML functionality, UE behavior can differ from conventional positioning. However, higher computational complexity will be required to perform AI / ML positioning. The features described herein can also be used to clarify when AI / ML positioning will be used. It may not always be necessary to use an AI / ML-based approach. When conventional or AIML-based positioning techniques can operate on the UE device, the features described herein can be used as an approach to define and configure various requirements for the inputs / outputs of (multiple) AIML functionality, as well as recovery mechanisms.

[0038] For UEs capable of conventional and / or AIML positioning technologies, the features described herein can be used in conjunction with methods for configuring different UE positioning technology requirements. Features regarding providing handover between different positioning technologies can also be used. Handover can be triggered based on the UE's context and / or radio conditions. See also... Figure 4 This will describe an example.

[0039] Figure 4 An example of message exchange and operation with the UE, gNB(TRP), and LMF is shown. The UE may be configured with a default positioning technology during its manufacturing process. For example, the default positioning technology could be regular positioning. As shown in 402, the UE may initially send a report to the LMF about its capabilities. This report may include information such as informing the LMF about the UE type, processing capabilities, etc., similar to current UE capability reporting. The report may also include information indicating the default or current positioning technology configured on the UE.

[0040] As shown in 404, based on the received capability report, the LMF can determine potential positioning operation configurations for the UE's positioning operations. The UE is capable of providing at least two different types of positioning technologies. For example, the UE may be able to selectively use a conventional positioning technology and a different AIML positioning technology. As another example, the UE may be able to selectively use at least two different types of AIML positioning technologies. In one type of example embodiment, the UE is capable of providing two or more different positioning technologies simultaneously. As shown in 404, the LMF can also optionally determine one or more requirements for at least one of the different positioning technologies to signal to the gNB and the UE.

[0041] In one example embodiment, for the activated positioning method (regarding the activation or selection of the positioning technology at 404), the LMF initially possesses or is able to determine one or more requirements for the positioning technology, including both conventional and AIML-based positioning technologies. Requirements for conventional positioning technologies may include existing accuracy requirements as defined in TS38.133, such as requirements expressed in terms of measured signal power. Requirements for the inputs to AIML-based positioning technologies may include accuracy requirements, for example, in terms of the measured signal power used as input to the AIML model or function. Requirements for the outputs of AIML-based positioning technologies may include the accuracy of the location coordinates determined by an inference process running on the UE device using AIML models and functions.

[0042] For the active positioning technology(s) (in the sense that the positioning technology has been determined by the LMF and is intended to be identified at 404), the LMF determines one or more requirements to be applied to the UE. The LMF can select a set of requirements corresponding to the active positioning technology(s). In one example embodiment, each match between a positioning technology and one or more corresponding positioning measurement requirements can be indexed. For example, indexing can be done by assigning integer values ​​to different matches. The LMF can send the requirements to the UE separately for the active positioning technology(s) (determined at 404). For this purpose, the index can be sent from the LMF to the UE.

[0043] Optionally, the following steps can be applied to indicate multiple requirements for the UE. The requirements for signal measurements of inputs for AIML-based positioning (e.g., in terms of signal power) can be much lower than the requirements for measurements of conventional positioning (e.g., in terms of signal power). In this case, for the same measurement type (e.g., RSRP, RSRPP, RSTD), the difference in requirements (if applicable, i.e., both have the same unit, e.g., signal power) is represented by X (e.g., X = 3dB or 6dB). The value of X can be sent from the LMF to the UE as a requirement, for example, to trigger the occurrence of an event. For example, the UE can trigger different(multiple) requirements based on the technologies(multiple) selected by the UE. The selection criteria can be configured by the LMF. If the obtained positioning measurements meet the conventional measurement requirements to achieve specific performance, the conventional positioning technology can be selected or triggered. If the obtained measurements do not meet the conventional measurement requirements, the AI / ML-based positioning technology can be selected or triggered.

[0044] As shown in 406, after the LMF determines the positioning technology for the UE, the LMF can send positioning operation configuration information to the gNB and the UE. This positioning operation configuration information includes information about (multiple) positioning technologies and optionally includes corresponding requirements for one or more of these positioning technologies. These requirements can be used to trigger the UE's use of a specific positioning technology(s). As shown in 408, after the UE receives the configuration information, the UE can set the configured requirements. In one type of example, based on the configuration information received in 406, in step 408, the UE can change the type of the configured positioning technology or not change the type of the configured positioning technology. However, after step 408, the UE will be configured with at least one positioning technology.

[0045] In one example, if the UE was already configured to use a conventional positioning technology before step 408, the UE can use configuration information 406 to maintain that conventional positioning technology. In another example, if the UE was already configured to use a conventional positioning technology before step 408, the UE can use configuration information 406 to switch to a different positioning technology, such as AIML positioning technology. In another example, if the UE was already configured to use a first-type AIML positioning technology before step 408, the UE can use configuration information 406 to maintain that first-type AIML positioning technology. In yet another example, if the UE was already configured to use a first-type AIML positioning technology before step 408, the UE can use configuration information 406 to switch to a different first-type AIML positioning technology or switch to a conventional positioning technology. These are just a few examples. The configuration information sent at step 406 can be used by the UE to maintain or switch between / among any suitable type and number of different positioning technologies.

[0046] Figure 4 Example 410 is shown when the UE is configured with AI / ML-based positioning, and another example 412 is shown when the UE is configured with regular positioning. As these examples show, the configuration information sent at 406 after 408 can be used by the UE to maintain or switch between / among different positioning technologies.

[0047] For Example 410, when the UE is configured with AI / ML-based positioning, the UE can receive signals from the gNB to notify or transmit a Positioning Reference Signal (PRS), as indicated in 414. The UE can obtain measurements of the PRS, as shown in 416. The UE can initiate AI / ML functions for the configured positioning technology, as shown in 418. As shown in 420, the UE can determine whether one or more requirements regarding the configured positioning technology are met. For example, the requirements could be regarding positioning accuracy. In one type of embodiment, if one or more obtained positioning measurements do not meet the general measurement requirements of a conventional positioning method, the UE can be configured to use or select an AI / ML-based positioning technology. For Example 410, if the requirements(s) for the AI / ML-based positioning technology are met, the UE can continue to use the currently configured AI / ML-based positioning technology. However, as shown in 422, if the requirements(s) for the AI / ML-based positioning technology are not met, the UE can determine to switch to a different positioning technology. For example, the UE can determine to switch or fall back to a conventional positioning technology. As shown in 424, the UE can signal the LMF to notify the intended handover (in this example, "fallback" to a conventional positioning technology), and the LMF can signal the UE to confirm, as shown in 426. Confirmation 426 may include information for the UE to use or select a different positioning technology subsequently. In the example shown, confirmation 426 is an acknowledgment for the UE to perform a fallback (i.e., fallback to conventional positioning) as a switch or change in positioning technology. If needed, confirmation 426 may include new configuration information, such as for conventional positioning, or for another different type of AI / ML-based positioning. As indicated at 428, based on receiving confirmation 426, the UE can configure a new positioning using one or more corresponding requests.

[0048] For Example 412, when the UE is configured with regular positioning, the UE can evaluate whether the current downlink (DL) measurement is suitable for continuing to use regular positioning, as shown in 430. As shown in 432, when the requirements for regular positioning are not met, the UE can check to determine whether the UE has AI / ML functionality for positioning. Optionally, as shown in 434, the LMF can provide a threshold or condition to assist the UE in deciding whether to switch from regular positioning mode to AIML-based positioning mode. As shown in 436, the UE can determine whether to switch from regular positioning mode to AIML-based positioning mode. Therefore, the determination at step 436 is based on at least two conditions: the current downlink (DL) measurement as indicated in 430 and whether the UE has AI / ML functionality for positioning as indicated in 432. In this example, if the UE determines that it wishes to switch from the current mode (regular positioning mode) to a new mode (AI-ML-based positioning), the UE can signal to the LMF an indication or request to initiate the new mode (AI-ML-based mode), as shown in 438. As shown in 440, the LMF can send a handover confirmation to the UE. If necessary, this confirmation 440 may include multiple new requirements for AI / ML positioning. As shown in 442, the UE can be configured with a new mode (AIML-based positioning) having its corresponding multiple requirements.

[0049] In one type of example embodiment, the LMF can activate a single UE positioning technology or multiple UE positioning technologies. For example, as shown in the example above, the LMF can decide whether to activate a conventional positioning technology or an AIML positioning technology. In one type of example embodiment, the LMF can determine to activate multiple technologies. In one type of example embodiment, the LMF can provide the UE with different corresponding priorities for multiple technologies; for the UE to use when selecting the technology to use.

[0050] AI / ML technology may outperform conventional technologies in terms of positioning accuracy. When the UE cannot obtain high-quality positioning measurements, choosing AI / ML positioning instead of conventional technologies can be an option to achieve accurate target location estimation.

[0051] As described above, after the UE receives the information sent by the LMF, the UE can use information about (multiple) configurations to initiate conventional positioning technology or AIML-based positioning technology.

[0052] If AIML-based positioning is configured, the UE measures the DL signal and performs AIML operations for coordinate inference. The UE evaluates whether the current AIML-based positioning configuration is suitable for the current UE's capabilities or radio conditions. The UE can determine whether positioning accuracy (e.g., less than 10 cm) is achievable. The UE decision-making process explained below describes the configured UE behavior. In one type of example, a non-mobile / static UE can acquire a series of measurements of the signal at consecutive moments, and such measurements can be used for inference. In this case, the UE's coordinates should be consistent across measurement moments. However, if the inference indicates contradictory results, for example, large discrepancies in coordinates exceeding the error tolerance, the UE can conclude that the AIML function may not be performing correctly or is currently unable to provide accurate results.

[0053] For Example 410, if the UE determines that the AIML-based positioning technology is not functioning correctly, the UE is allowed to subsequently initiate a process to another mode, such as, for example, fallback or restoration to the normal positioning mode. The UE can send a flag to the LMF to indicate that the activated / configured AIML-based positioning technology is at least unavailable to the UE at this moment. The LMF can send a response to allow the UE to fall back to the normal positioning technology. If the normal positioning technology requires configuration, the LMF can send a configuration request.

[0054] If regular positioning is configured, the UE measures DL signals to perform UE-based positioning or send a measurement report to the LMF.

[0055] The UE can assess whether the current DL measurement is suitable for routine positioning by determining whether it meets the configured accuracy requirements(s) or RSRP / RSRPP measurement requirements(s). If any current measurement does not meet the accuracy requirements for performing routine positioning techniques or sending a report to the LMF, the UE can check whether it has AIML capabilities.

[0056] Standards can be defined to check if a UE is ready to use AI / ML positioning. For example, for a UE that supports AI / ML functionality, the UE can check basic aspects related to AIML, including, for example: Has model training or model generation been completed? Can the UE handle the model complexity required to support a certain number of TRPs? Does it meet the measurement requirements for AIML positioning? Then, UEs with AIML capabilities are allowed to switch from a conventional positioning mode to an AIML-based positioning mode. For this operation, the LMF can also provide signaling to inform the UE of the value of X, i.e., the threshold power level. If the LMF does not provide X, the UE can use an initial given or default value for X. In one example, assume the UE's current DL measurement (e.g., S dB) does not meet the accuracy requirements of conventional positioning. Given a value of X (e.g., T dB), if the difference between the conventional requirement and the AIML-based requirement (e.g., the absolute value of (SQ)) is less than or equal to the value of X, i.e., |SQ| If T), then the UE determines that the current measurement meets the input requirements (e.g., Q dB) for AIML-based positioning. This is because the requirements for inputs (e.g., measured DL signal strength) for AIML-based positioning can be relaxed compared to the stringent measurements for conventional positioning techniques. Alternatively, the equality sign can be removed from the above condition, i.e., |SQ| T.

[0057] If a UE with AIML capabilities decides to switch to regular positioning, the UE can send a definitive instruction to itself. The UE can also indicate an index of preferred requirements suitable for its current capabilities (e.g., buffering, processing, battery) and radio conditions (e.g., received signal power on the radio channel, channel delay distribution, number of detectable TRPs). The LMF can send a response allowing the UE to be (re)configured with new requirements (e.g., sending a new index of configurable requirements) and associated with the AIML model and functionality. The UE can then be configured for AIML-based positioning techniques with requirements(s) corresponding to the index indicated by the LMF.

[0058] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: receive configuration information for positioning operations using the apparatus, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies; and use the configuration information to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies using the apparatus.

[0059] The configuration information may include at least one location measurement requirement associated with at least one of the positioning technologies. The configuration information may include corresponding location measurement requirements for at least two positioning technologies. When executed with the at least one processor, these instructions may cause the device to switch from using a first positioning technology among at least two different positioning technologies to using a second positioning technology among at least two different positioning technologies. The first positioning technology may be a conventional positioning technology, and the second positioning technology may be an artificial intelligence or machine learning positioning technology. The first positioning technology may be an artificial intelligence or machine learning-based positioning technology, and the second positioning technology may be a conventional positioning technology. The device may be a user equipment, and the first positioning technology among these positioning technologies may include an artificial intelligence or machine learning-based positioning technology, while the second positioning technology among these positioning technologies does not include an artificial intelligence or machine learning-based positioning technology. When executed with the at least one processor, these instructions may cause the device to send an instruction to a location management function regarding a desired change in the positioning technology. When executed with the at least one processor, these instructions may cause the device to perform the following operations: receive confirmation of a mode switch to be performed by the device; and use the confirmation to perform the mode switch. When executed using the at least one processor, these instructions can cause the device to perform the mode switch using a positioning operation request received along with the confirmation of performing the mode switch. When executed using the at least one processor, these instructions can cause the device to perform the mode switch using a positioning operation request received along with the configuration information. When executed using the at least one processor, these instructions can cause the device to prioritize the use of at least some of the at least two positioning technologies. When executed using the at least one processor, these instructions can cause the device to select at least one of the at least two positioning technologies based on at least one positioning measurement of the device. When executed using the at least one processor, these instructions can cause the device to select at least one location measurement request based on the positioning technology to be used by the device. When executed using the at least one processor, these instructions can cause the device to select a location measurement request based on index information received along with the configuration information, wherein the index information is associated with at least one location measurement request and at least one of the positioning technologies.

[0060] According to an example method, a method is provided comprising: receiving configuration information for positioning operations using a device, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies; and using the device to initiate a positioning operation using at least one of the different positioning technologies. The configuration information may include at least one location measurement requirement associated with the at least one of the positioning technologies. The configuration information may include corresponding location measurement requirements for the at least two positioning technologies. The method may include switching from using a first positioning technology among the at least two different positioning technologies to using a second positioning technology among the at least two different positioning technologies. The first positioning technology may be a conventional positioning technology, and the second positioning technology may be an artificial intelligence or machine learning positioning technology. The first positioning technology may be an artificial intelligence or machine learning-based positioning technology, and the second positioning technology may be a conventional positioning technology. The device may be a user equipment, and the first positioning technology among these positioning technologies may include an artificial intelligence or machine learning-based positioning technology, and in one example, the second positioning technology among these positioning technologies does not include an artificial intelligence or machine learning-based positioning technology. The method may include sending an indication to a location management function regarding a desired change in the positioning technology. The method may include: receiving confirmation of a mode switch to be performed by the device; and using the confirmation to perform the mode switch. The method may include switching using a positioning operation request received along with confirmation of execution mode switching. The method may include switching using a positioning operation request received along with configuration information. The method may include prioritizing the use of at least some of at least two positioning technologies. The method may include selecting at least one positioning technology from at least two positioning technologies based on at least one positioning measurement of the device. The method may include selecting at least one location measurement request based on the positioning technology to be used by the device. The method may include selecting a location measurement request based on index information received along with configuration information, wherein the index information is associated with at least one location measurement request and at least one positioning technology.

[0061] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus is provided, comprising: a component for receiving configuration information for positioning operations using the apparatus, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies; and a component for using the configuration information to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies using the apparatus.

[0062] According to one example embodiment, a device-readable non-transitory program storage device is provided, the non-transitory program storage device tangibly embodying an instruction program executable by the device for performing operations including: using the device to receive configuration information for positioning operations, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies; and using the device to use the configuration information to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies.

[0063] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus is provided, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one non-transitory memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: determine configuration information for positioning operations of a user equipment, wherein the determination is at least partially based on capability information of the user equipment received by the apparatus; and send the configuration information to the user equipment, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies, wherein the configuration information is configured to be used by the user equipment to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies.

[0064] The configuration information may include at least one location measurement requirement regarding at least one of the positioning technologies. The configuration information may include one or more corresponding location measurement requirements regarding at least two of the positioning technologies. The method may include information configured by a user equipment to switch from using a first positioning technology among at least two different positioning technologies to using a second positioning technology among at least two different positioning technologies. The first positioning technology may be a conventional positioning technology, and the second positioning technology may be an artificial intelligence or machine learning positioning technology. The first positioning technology may be an artificial intelligence or machine learning positioning technology, and the second positioning technology may be a conventional positioning technology. The first positioning technology may include an artificial intelligence or machine learning-based positioning technology, and in one example, the second positioning technology does not include an artificial intelligence or machine learning-based positioning technology. These instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, may cause the device to: receive an indication of a desired change in the positioning technology; and use the indication with a location management function. These instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, may cause the device to send confirmation of a mode switch to be performed by the user equipment. The configuration information may include priority ordering information configured by the user equipment to prioritize the first positioning technology over the second positioning technology. The configuration information may include information configured for use by a user equipment to perform selection of at least one of at least two positioning technologies based on at least one positioning measurement of the user equipment. The configuration information may also include information configured for use by a user equipment to perform selection of at least one location measurement requirement based on a positioning technology to be used by the user equipment. Furthermore, the configuration information may include information configured for use by a user equipment to perform selection of at least one location measurement requirement based on index information received together with the configuration information, wherein the index information may be associated with at least one location measurement requirement and at least one of the positioning technologies. When executed by the at least one processor, these instructions may cause the apparatus to: determine the index information, wherein the index information is associated with at least one location measurement requirement and at least one of the positioning technologies; and send the index information together with the configuration information to the user equipment, wherein the index information is configured for use by the user equipment to select at least one of the location measurement requirements(s).

[0065] According to an example method, a method is provided comprising: determining configuration information for positioning operations of a user equipment, wherein the determination is at least partially based on capability information of the user equipment received by the device; and sending the configuration information to the user equipment, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies, wherein the configuration information is configured to be used by the user equipment to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies. The configuration information may include at least one location measurement requirement regarding the at least one positioning technology. The configuration information may include one or more corresponding location measurement requirements regarding the at least two positioning technologies. The configuration information may include information configured for use by the user equipment to switch from using a first positioning technology among the at least two different positioning technologies to using a second positioning technology among the at least two different positioning technologies. The first positioning technology may be a conventional positioning technology, and the second positioning technology may be an artificial intelligence or machine learning positioning technology. Alternatively, the first positioning technology may be an artificial intelligence or machine learning positioning technology, and the second positioning technology may be a conventional positioning technology. In one example, the first positioning technology may include an artificial intelligence or machine learning-based positioning technology, and the second positioning technology may not include an artificial intelligence or machine learning-based positioning technology. The method may include receiving an indication of a desired change in positioning technology and using the indication with a location management function. The method may include sending an acknowledgment of a mode switch to be performed by the user equipment. Configuration information may include priority ordering information configured for use by the user equipment to prioritize a first positioning technology over a second positioning technology. Configuration information may include information configured for use by the user equipment to perform a selection of at least one positioning technology from at least two positioning technologies based on at least one positioning measurement of the user equipment. Configuration information may include information configured for use by the user equipment to perform a selection of at least one location measurement requirement based on a positioning technology to be used by the user equipment. Configuration information may include information configured for use by the user equipment to perform a selection of at least one location measurement requirement based on index information received together with the configuration information, wherein the index information may be associated with at least one location measurement requirement and at least one of the positioning technologies. The method may include: determining index information, wherein the index information is associated with at least one location measurement requirement and at least one of the positioning technologies; and sending the index information together with the configuration information to the user equipment, wherein the index information is configured for use by the user equipment to select the use of at least one of the location measurement requirements(s).

[0066] According to one example embodiment, an apparatus is provided, comprising: components for determining configuration information regarding positioning operations of a user equipment, wherein the determination is based at least in part on capability information of the user equipment received by the apparatus; and components for sending the configuration information to the user equipment, wherein the configuration information includes information regarding at least two different positioning technologies, wherein the configuration information is configured to be used by the user equipment to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies.

[0067] According to one example embodiment, a device-readable program storage device is provided, the program storage device tangibly embodying an instruction program executable by the device for performing operations including: determining configuration information regarding positioning operations of a user equipment, wherein the determination is at least partially based on capability information of the user equipment received by the device; and sending configuration information to the user equipment, wherein the configuration information includes information regarding at least two different positioning technologies, wherein the configuration information is configured to be used by the user equipment to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies.

[0068] In one type of alternative embodiment, the UE may initially be configured with two or more conventional positioning technologies and their requirements (at step 404), and the UE may determine a switching mode between the two or more conventional positioning technologies (at step 436).

[0069] As used herein, “conventional” positioning techniques refer to positioning techniques that do not rely on machine learning or artificial intelligence algorithms to obtain positioning measurements or estimate the UE’s location. For example, using timing measurements (e.g., time of arrival) from three different transmitters, triangulation techniques (such as time difference of arrival) would be considered conventional techniques. Generally, the techniques included in TR 38.857 can be considered examples of non-AIML-based positioning techniques.

[0070] As used herein, the term “non-transient” refers to a limitation on the medium itself (i.e., tangible, not signaling), rather than a limitation on the persistence of data storage (e.g., RAM versus ROM).

[0071] As used in this application, the term "circuit" may refer to one or more of the following: (a) Hardware circuit implementation only (e.g., implementation only in analog and / or digital circuits) and (b) A combination of hardware circuitry and software, such as (if applicable): (i) A combination of (multiple) analog and / or digital hardware circuits and software / firmware, and (ii) Any part of the (multiple) hardware processors having software (including (multiple) digital signal processors), software, and (multiple) memories, which work together to enable a device such as a mobile phone or server to perform various functions, and (iii) (multiple) hardware circuits and / or (multiple) processors, such as (multiple) microprocessors or a portion thereof, which require software (e.g., firmware) for operation, but may be absent when no software is required for operation.

[0072] This definition of "circuit" applies to all uses of the term in this application (including in any claim). As another example, as used herein, the term "circuit" also encompasses only hardware circuitry or a processor (or multiple processors) or a portion thereof and its accompanying software and / or firmware implementation. The term "circuit" also encompasses, for example and if applicable to a particular claim element, baseband integrated circuits or processor integrated circuits for mobile devices or similar integrated circuits in servers, cellular network devices, or other computing or network devices.

[0073] It should be understood that the foregoing description is illustrative only. Those skilled in the art can devise various alternatives and modifications. For example, the features recited in the various dependent claims can be combined with each other in any suitable combination(s). Furthermore, features from the different embodiments described above can be selectively combined to form new embodiments. Therefore, this description is intended to cover all such alternatives, modifications, and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to perform: The device receives configuration information for positioning operations, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies; and The device is used to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies using the configuration information.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the configuration information includes at least one location measurement requirement associated with at least one of the positioning technologies.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the configuration information includes corresponding location measurement requirements for the at least two positioning technologies.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: switching the use of a first positioning technology among the at least two different positioning technologies to the use of a second positioning technology among the at least two different positioning technologies.

5. The apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the first positioning technology is a conventional positioning technology, and the second positioning technology is an artificial intelligence or machine learning positioning technology.

6. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein the first positioning technology is a positioning technology based on artificial intelligence or machine learning, and the second positioning technology is a conventional positioning technology.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-4, wherein the apparatus is a user equipment, and wherein the first positioning technology in the positioning technology includes positioning technology based on artificial intelligence or machine learning, and the second positioning technology in the positioning technology does not include positioning technology based on artificial intelligence or machine learning.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-7, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to send an instruction to the location management function regarding a change in the positioning technology.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform receiving an acknowledgment of a mode switch to be performed by the apparatus, and to perform the mode switch using the acknowledgment.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform the mode switch using a positioning operation request received together with the confirmation for performing the mode switch.

11. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform the mode switching using a positioning operation request received together with the configuration information.

12. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to prioritize the use of at least some of the at least two positioning techniques.

13. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-12, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: selecting at least one of the at least two positioning techniques based on at least one positioning measurement of the apparatus.

14. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-13, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: selecting at least one position measurement requirement based on a positioning technology to be used by the apparatus.

15. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-14, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to: select a location measurement requirement based on index information received together with the configuration information, wherein the index information is related to at least one location measurement requirement and at least one of the positioning techniques.

16. A method comprising: The device receives configuration information for positioning operations, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies; as well as The device is used to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies using the configuration information.

17. An apparatus comprising: A component for receiving configuration information for positioning operations using the device, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies; as well as Components for using the device to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies using the configuration information.

18. A device-readable program storage device tangibly embodies an instruction program executable by said device for performing operations, said operations including: The device is used to receive configuration information for positioning operations, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies; as well as The device is used to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies using the configuration information.

19. An apparatus comprising: At least one processor; as well as At least one memory storing instructions that, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the device to perform: Determine configuration information for positioning operations of a user equipment, wherein the determination is based at least in part on capability information of the user equipment received by the device; as well as The configuration information is sent to the user equipment, wherein the configuration information includes information about at least two different positioning technologies, and wherein the configuration information is configured to be used by the user equipment to initiate at least one of the different positioning technologies.

20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the configuration information includes at least one location measurement requirement regarding at least one of the positioning technologies.

21. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the configuration information includes one or more location measurement requirements for the corresponding of the at least two positioning techniques.

22. The apparatus according to any one of claims 19-21, wherein the configuration information includes information configured by the user equipment to switch from using a first positioning technology among the at least two different positioning technologies to using a second positioning technology among the at least two different positioning technologies.

23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the first positioning technology is a conventional positioning technology, and the second positioning technology is an artificial intelligence or machine learning positioning technology.

24. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the first positioning technology is an artificial intelligence or machine learning positioning technology, and the second positioning technology is a conventional positioning technology.

25. The apparatus according to any one of claims 19-22, wherein the first positioning technology in the positioning technology includes positioning technology based on artificial intelligence or machine learning, and the second positioning technology in the positioning technology does not include positioning technology based on artificial intelligence or machine learning.

26. The apparatus according to any one of claims 19-25, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform an instruction to receive a change in positioning technology and to use the instruction with a location management function.

27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to send an acknowledgment of a mode switch to be performed by the user equipment.

28. The apparatus according to any one of claims 19-27, wherein the configuration information includes: Priority ranking information, which is configured to be used by the user equipment to prioritize the first positioning technology over the second positioning technology in the positioning technology; and / or Information configured to be used by the user equipment to perform the selection of at least one of the at least two positioning technologies based on at least one positioning measurement of the user equipment.

29. The apparatus according to any one of claims 19-28, wherein the configuration information includes information configured for use by the user equipment to perform a selection of at least one location measurement requirement based on a positioning technology to be used by the user equipment.

30. The apparatus of any one of claims 19-29, wherein the configuration information includes information configured for use by the user equipment to perform selection of at least one location measurement requirement based on index information received together with the configuration information, wherein the index information is associated with at least one location measurement requirement and at least one of the positioning technologies.

31. The apparatus according to any one of claims 19-30, wherein the instructions, when executed with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus to perform: Determine index information, wherein the index information is related to at least one location measurement requirement and at least one of the positioning technologies, and The index information is sent to the user equipment along with the configuration information, wherein the index information is configured to be used by the user equipment to select at least one of the location measurement requirements(s).