Positioning for energy harvesting devices

Abstract

Systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for positioning for energy harvesting devices. The method can include determining, by a network element, at least one parameter with which to conduct a positioning estimation process based on an energy report received from a device. The energy report may indicate limitations of energy of the device. The method may also include controlling one or more base stations to conduct the positioning estimation process with the device based on the determination of the at least one parameter, and estimating a position of the device based on a positioning measurement report received from the device.

Description

TITLE:POSITIONING FOR ENERGY HARVESTING DEVICESFIELD:

[0001] Some example embodiments may generally relate to mobile or wireless telecommunication systems, such as Long Term Evolution (LTE) or fifth generation (5G) radio access technology or new radio (NR) access technology, or other communications systems. For example, certain example embodiments may relate to apparatuses, systems, and / or methods for positioning of energy harvesting devices.BACKGROUND:

[0002] Examples of mobile or wireless telecommunication systems may include the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) Terrestrial Radio Access Network (UTRAN), LTE Evolved UTRAN (E-UTRAN), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), MulteFire, LTE-A Pro, fifth generation (5G) radio access technology or NR access technology, and / or 5G-Advanced. 5G wireless systems refer to the next generation (NG) of radio systems and network architecture. 5G network technology is mostly based on NR technology, but the 5G (or NG) network can also build on E- UTRAN radio. It is estimated that NR may provide bitrates on the order of 10-20 Gbit / s or higher, and may support at least enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) and ultra-reliable low-latency communication (URLLC) as well as massive machinetype communication (mMTC). NR is expected to deliver extreme broadband and ultra-robust, low-latency connectivity and massive networking to support the loT.

[0003] As the internet of things (loT) expands and includes more devices, more devices are being connected which harvest their own energy (e.g., solar powered programmable signs and cameras, radio signal powered temperature sensors and rain collectors, and many other types of devices). These devices often have limited battery capacity. The devices can often be moved as well. Protocols for obtaining the position of the energy harvesting device can often lead to a complete drain of theenergy harvesting device’s battery and a failure to identify the position of the energy harvesting device.SUMMARY:

[0004] An embodiment may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions. The instructions stored in the at least memory, when executed by the at least one processor may cause the apparatus at least to perform determining, by a network element, at least one parameter with which to conduct a positioning estimation process based on an energy report received from a device. The energy report may indicate limitations of energy of the device. The instructions stored in the at least one memory, when executed by the at least one processor, may also cause the apparatus at least to perform controlling one or more base stations to conduct the positioning estimation process with the device based on the determination of the at least one parameter, and estimating a position of the device based on a positioning measurement report received from the device.

[0005] Another embodiment may be directed to an apparatus. The apparatus may include at least one processor and at least one memory storing instructions. The instructions stored in the at least memory, when executed by the at least one processor may cause the apparatus at least to perform sending an energy report to a network element, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of a device, generating a positioning measurement report based on signals received from one or more base stations, and sending the positioning measurement report to the network element.

[0006] An embodiment may be directed to a method. The method can include determining, by a network element, at least one parameter with which to conduct a positioning estimation process based on an energy report received from a device. The energy report may indicate limitations of energy of the device. The method may also include controlling one or more base stations to conduct the positioning estimation process with the device based on the determination of the at least oneparameter, and estimating a position of the device based on a positioning measurement report received from the device.

[0007] Another embodiment may be directed to a method. The method can include sending an energy report to a network element, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of a device, generating a positioning measurement report based on signals received from one or more base stations, and sending the positioning measurement report to the network element.

[0008] Another embodiment may be direct to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for determining at least one parameter with which to conduct a positioning estimation process based on an energy report received from a device, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of the device; means for controlling one or more base stations to conduct the positioning estimation process with the device based on the determination of the at least one parameter; and means for estimating a position of the device based on a positioning measurement report received from the device.

[0009] Another embodiment may be direct to an apparatus. The apparatus may include means for sending an energy report to a network element, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of an device, means for generating a positioning measurement report based on signals received from one or more base stations, and means for sending the positioning measurement report to the network element.

[0010] Another embodiment may be directed to an apparatus comprising circuitry configured to perform a method. The method can include determining, by a network element, at least one parameter with which to conduct a positioning estimation process based on an energy report received from a device. The energy report may indicate limitations of energy of the device. The method may also include controlling one or more base stations to conduct the positioning estimation process with the device based on the determination of the at least one parameter, and estimating a position of the device based on a positioning measurement report received from the device.

[0011] Another embodiment may be directed to an apparatus comprising circuitry configured to perform a method. The method can include sending an energy report to a network element, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of a device, generating a positioning measurement report based on signals received from one or more base stations, and sending the positioning measurement report to the network element.

[0012] Another embodiment may be directed to a non-transitory computer readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform at least a method. The method can include determining, by a network element, at least one parameter with which to conduct a positioning estimation process based on an energy report received from a device. The energy report may indicate limitations of energy of the device. The method may also include controlling one or more base stations to conduct the positioning estimation process with the device based on the determination of the at least one parameter, and estimating a position of the device based on a positioning measurement report received from the device.

[0013] Another embodiment may be directed to a non-transitory computer readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform at least a method. The method can include sending an energy report to a network element, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of a device, generating a positioning measurement report based on signals received from one or more base stations, and sending the positioning measurement report to the network element.

[0014] A computer program comprising instructions, which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform a method. The method can include determining, by a network element, at least one parameter with which to conduct a positioning estimation process based on an energy report received from a device. The energy report may indicate limitations of energy of the device. The method may also include controlling one or more base stations to conduct the positioning estimation process with the device based on the determination of the at least oneparameter, and estimating a position of the device based on a positioning measurement report received from the device.

[0015] A computer program comprising instructions, which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform a method. The method can include sending an energy report to a network element, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of a device, generating a positioning measurement report based on signals received from one or more base stations, and sending the positioning measurement report to the network element.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:

[0016] For proper understanding of example embodiments, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0017] FIG. 1 illustrates an example flow diagram of communications between an energy harvesting user equipment, base stations, and a location management function, according to certain example embodiments.

[0018] FIG. 2 illustrates another example flow diagram of communications between an energy harvesting user equipment, base stations, and a location management function, according to some example embodiments.

[0019] FIG. 3 illustrates an example flow chart for a method of controlling a network element, according to various example embodiments.

[0020] FIG. 4 illustrates an example flow chart for a method of controlling an energy harvesting device, according to certain example embodiments.

[0021] FIG. 5 illustrates a set of apparatuses, according to some example embodiments.

[0022] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a 5G network and system architecture, according to some example embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION:

[0023] It will be readily understood that the components of certain example embodiments, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, may be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. The following is a detailed description of some example embodiments of systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for positioning for energy harvesting devices.

[0024] The features, structures, or characteristics of example embodiments described throughout this specification may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more example embodiments. For example, the usage of the phrases “certain embodiments,” “an example embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “various embodiments,” or other similar language, throughout this specification refers to the fact that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment may be included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in certain embodiments,” “an example embodiment,” “in some embodiments,” “in other embodiments,” or other similar language, throughout this specification do not necessarily refer to the same group of embodiments, and the described features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more example embodiments. Further, the terms “base station”, “cell”, “node”, “gNB”, “network” or other similar language throughout this specification may be used interchangeably.

[0025] As used herein, “at least one of the following: ” and “at least one of ” and similar wording, where the list of two or more elements are joined by “and” or “or,” mean at least any one of the elements, or at least any two or more of the elements, or at least all the elements.

[0026] Energy harvesting devices may connect to a network and share information electronically over networks such as cell networks. For optimal communication with the network, it may be advantageous to have an accurate knowledge of the location of the energy harvesting device. The following example embodiments may prevent positioning sessions from failing to accurately estimate aposition of the energy harvesting device, and prevent the energy harvesting device from using all of its energy in a positioning session such that it cannot perform its other functions.

[0027] FIG. 1 illustrates an example flow diagram 1000 of communications between an energy harvesting user equipment (EH-UE) 100, base stations 300, and a location management function (LMF) 200, according to certain example embodiments. The EH-UE 100 may be an example of an energy harvesting device. The LMF 200 may be located on one of the base stations 300 or another device in a network which includes the base stations 300.

[0028] At SI 10, the EH-UE 100 and the LMF 200 may initiate the positioning session. Initiating the positioning session may include a handshake process where the devices identify themselves and set up communication protocols. The LMF 200 or the EH-UE 100 may request a positioning session.

[0029] At S120, the EH-UE 100 may report an available energy / battery level constraint. The available energy / battery level constraint may take the form of a battery percentage, estimate processing time remaining, voltage level, or another form of estimated constraint on the EH-UE 100 based on the energy and / or battery level of the EH-UE 100. The EH-UE 100 may communicate with the LMF 200 via at least one of the base stations gNB 300. At S120, the EH-UE may also measure the energy level or otherwise obtain the energy level in order to report the available energy / battery level constraint. The EH-UE 100 may calculate the number of MHz of positioning reference signal (PRS) bandwidth the EH-UE is capable of processing and send this information to the LMF 200.

[0030] At SI 30, the LMF 200 may decide the optimal number of gNBs 300 and the PRS-bandwidth(BW) based on the reported energy constraints of the EH-UE 100. For example, if the EH-UE 100 reports a battery level of 50%, the LMF 200 may determine to lower the number of gNBs 300 sending downlink(DL)-PRS to 3 from the standard 5. The LMF 200 may also determine to restrict the bandwidth of the DL-PRS to a single channel to reduce the power consumed by the EH-UE 100 receiving the DL-PRS (a lower bandwidth may have lower power consumption). Allocation of too small a bandwidth can make positioning measurements moredifficult, and allocating too few gNBs can make triangulation less accurate. The LMF 200 may use many factors to determine the BW and number of gNBs, and an acceptable trade off between the BW and number of gNBs may be determined. The factors may include the environmental factors such as humidity and likelihood of line of sight, availability of suitable bandwidth, availability of gNBs which are reasonably close to the EH-UE 100, history of positional changes for the particular EH-UE 100, needed accuracy for the EH-UE 100, etc. Some of these factors (e.g., need for accuracy of positioning, suitable bandwidth for the EH-UE 100, etc.) may be included by the EH-UE 100 with the report of battery constraints.

[0031] At S140, the positioning session may be configured with the constraints on the number of gNBs 300 and the bandwidth. The LMF 200 may communicate the positioning session configuration to the EH-UE 100 and the gNBs 300. The configuration may include exact timing or other timing instructions for the participating gNBs to send each DL-PRS. The participating gNBs may be determined based on the communications with the EH-UE 100 in SI 10. For example, if the EH-UE 100 initiated the handshake process with a first base station gNB-1 300-1, the participating gNBs may be determined as the gNBs 300 closest to the gNB-1 300-1.

[0032] At S142, a first base station gNB-1 300-1 may send, and the EH-UE 100 may receive, a first DL-PRS DL-PRS 1. The DL-PRS 1 may include an indication of the time the signal was sent and an identifier which allows the EH-UE 100 to determine that DL-PRS 1 is the correct DL-PRS.

[0033] At S142, a second base station gNB-2 300-2 may send, and the EH-UE 100 may receive, a second DL-PRS DL-PRS2. The DL-PRS2 may include similar indications as the indications in the DL-PRS 1.

[0034] Each of the participating gNBs 300 may send their respective DL-PRS until, at S146, an nth base station gNB-N 300-N may send, and the EH-UE 100 may receive, an nth DL-PRS DL-PRSN.

[0035] At S150, the EH-UE 100 may estimate the time of arrival (ToA) of each of the DL-PRS from the participating gNBs 300 and / or perform other positioningmeasurements. The EH-UE 100 may record the time of reception of each of the DL- PRS, or estimate a ToA based on the timing of processing the DL-PRS, or in another way estimate the ToA of the DL-PRS. The EH-UE 100 may also estimate the time difference of arrival (TDoA) between each of the received DL-PRS. For example, the EH-UE 100 may set the estimated arrival time of the DL-PRS1 as “0” and estimate the delay between the arrival of the DL-PRS 1 and each of the other received DL-PRS. Other methods of estimating the times the DL-PRS were received may also be used. Examples of other positioning measurements may include carrier phase information of the DL-PRS, line of sight probability of the DL-PRS, angle of arrival of the DL-PRS, and / or reference signal received power of the DL-PRS from each of the participating gNBs.

[0036] At S160, the EH-UE 100 may send, and the LMF 200 may receive, positioning measurements. The positioning measurements may be ToAs, TDoAs, carrier phase information of the DL-PRS, line of sight probability of the DL-PRS, angle of arrival of the DL-PRS, reference signal received power of the DL-PRS from each of the participating gNBs, and / or other measurements related to the DL-PRS.

[0037] At S170, the LMF 200 may estimate the position of the EH-UE 100 based on the measurement positioning measurements. The LMF 200 may use the known positions of the participating gNBs 300 along with the timing measurements (e.g., ToA(s) and / or TDoA(s)) to triangulate the position of the EH-UE 100. A previously calculated location of the EH-UE 100 may be used in estimating the position of the EH-UE 100, especially if the constraints on the positioning session restricted the number of gNBs. For example, if the timing measurements and the position of the known gNBs are consistent with the last location measured for the EH-UE 100, the LMF 200 may assume that the EH-UE 100 has not moved.

[0038] At SI 80, the LMF 200 may communicate with the EH-UE 100 and at least one gNB 300 communication parameters based on the position estimate of the EH-UE 100. For example, if it is determined that gNBl 300-1 is closest to the EH- UE 100, the LMF may assign the further communications of the EH-UE 100 and the network to go through gNBl. The EH-UE 100 may then communicate with thenetwork based on the parameters. Or restated, the EH-UE 100 and the network may communicate based on the position estimate.

[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates another example flow diagram 2000 of communications between an energy harvesting user equipment, base stations, and a location management function, according to certain example embodiments. FIG. 2 includes several operations which are similar or the same as the operations described with relation to FIG. 1. Similar descriptions may be omitted. The operations of FIG. 2 may relate to a method of pausing the positioning session when a battery level of the EH-UE 100 becomes low. The operations of FIG. 2 may be performed separately, or together with the operations of FIG. 1.

[0040] At S210, the EH-UE 100 may communicate with the EMF 200 to configure a positioning session and the LMF 200 may communicate the configuration with the EH-UE 100 and the participating gNBs 300. The operations described related to SI 20- 130 may be performed or may not be performed when configuring the positioning session.

[0041] At S212, the gBN-1 300-1 may send and the EH-UE 100 may receive a first DL-PRS DL-PRS1.

[0042] At S222, the EH-UE 100 may estimate the ToA-1 of the DL-PRS1 and / or other positioning measurements.

[0043] At S214a, the gBN-2 300-2 may send and the EH-UE 100 may receive a second DL-PRS DL-PRS2.

[0044] At S224a, the EH-UE 100 may estimate the ToA-2 of the DL-PRS2 and / or other positioning measurements.

[0045] At S230, the EH-UE 100 may determine that the battery level of the battery of the EH-UE 100 is below a low battery level. The low battery level may be determined by comparing the battery level to a first threshold, such as 30%. Alternatively, the rate the battery level is draining / decreasing compared to the rate of energy harvest may be used to determine if the battery level is low. For example, if receiving and processing each DL-PRS reduces the battery by 10 percent in thetime that only 1 percent of the battery level is harvested and the battery level is at 20% and 2 or more DL-PRS are still to be processed, the EH-UE may determine the battery level is low and determine to request a positioning measurement pause.

[0046] At S235, the EH-UE 100 may send a request for a positioning measurement-pause (e.g., positioning pause). The request (pause request) may include an identifier of the EH-UE, the positioning session, the gNBs 300 from which the DL-PRS were received and other information related to the positioning session. In some example embodiments, the pause request may include a pause time (e.g., 5 minutes) after which the positioning session may resume. The pause time may be based on the current energy harvesting rate and a desired (or threshold) energy level. In other example embodiments, the pause request may indicate to wait until a resume request is received. The LMF 200 may convey the information from the positioning pause to the gNBs with instructions on when to resume or instructions for when to send DL-PRS, etc. Although the pause is shown as beginning after two DL-PRS have been received, the pause may be requested at any time, including before any DL-PRS are received and after all DL-PRS have been received. The EH-UE 100 may save the information from the past DL-PRS before or during the pause. The pause time may also be determined based on a positioning latency requirement (e.g., a maximum time for a pause where the previous DL-PRS measurements will still be considered valid or useful and the positioning measurement configuration need not be reset). After sending the request the EH-UE 100 may enter a deep sleep state and use much less power while continuing to harvest power.

[0047] At S250, the EH-UE 100 may determine the battery level is adequate (e.g., above a second threshold, such as 65%). In some example embodiments the first threshold and second threshold may be the same, while in other example embodiments the first and second thresholds may be different. The EH-UE 100 may also determine to resume (or to request to resume) the positioning session. This determination may be made based on a timer. For example, the EH-UE may determine the time elapsed since the pause request was sent is less than a threshold time (e.g., 5 minutes) and determine to resume the positioning session.

[0048] At S260, the EH-UE 100 may send and the LMF 200 may receive a position measurement resume request (e.g., positioning recovery). The position measurement resume request (resume request) may include the identifier of the EHUE 100, an identifier of the positioning session, identifiers of gNBs which have successfully transmitted DL-PRS, and other information which identifies the positioning session to be resumed.

[0049] At S270, the LMF 200 may determine to release the positioning session and select one of the previously successful transmitted gNBs for retransmission. The determination may be made based on a positioning latency requirement. For example, if the pause time (duration) is less than the positioning latency requirement, the partial previous measurements before pause time are still valid and can be utilized for positioning. Positioning measurement can continue without a need to change positioning measurement configuration for EH-UE 100 and network. As another example, if the pause time (duration) is greater than the positioning latency requirement, the LMF 200 may re-initiate / trigger the positioning session after the pause time (duration). The LMF may need to reconfigure the positioning measurement configuration for the EH-UE 200 and the gNBs. If a new positioning session is initiated, the partial previous measurements may still be utilized to speed up the next positioning procedure. This may save energy at the EH-UE 100 during the next positioning procedure.

[0050] The determination may also be made based on the availability of the participating gNBs. For example, if one of the gNBs which was assigned to the positioning session is no longer available due to being offline or not having enough available bandwidth, the LMF 200 may determine to not resume the positioning session but instead initiate a new positioning session. If it is determined that the positioning session can be resumed, the LMF 200 may release the positioning session and select one of the previously successful transmitted gNBs for retransmission. In some example embodiments, the selected previously successful transmitted gNBs may be the last gNB to have successfully transmitted (in the case of the example embodiment of FIG. 2 in gNB -2). The LMF 200 may know which gNBs have successfully transmitted the DL-PRS based on the transition from the EH-UE 100 at S235 and / or S260. If no successful DL-PRS were transmitted or onlyone, the LMF 200 may determine to restart the positioning session, (e.g., communicate with all of the participating gNBs to send / resend the DL-PRS). Even if the positioning session is restarted, the measurement information from the previous DL-PRS may be used in the position estimation process.

[0051] At S214b, the gNB-2 may retransmit DL-PRS2 to the EH-UE 100.

[0052] At S224b, the EH-UE 100 may re-estimate ToA-2 based on the retransmitted DL-PRS2 and / or other positioning measurements.

[0053] At S280, the EH-UE 100 may determine to continue with previous measurements (e.g., previously estimated ToA, TDoA, etc.) or start a new positioning session. The EH-UE may determine that the propagation environment has changed based on the retransmitted DL-PRS2 and based on the determination of a significantly changed propagation environment the EH-UE 100 may determine to start a new positioning session. For example, if the estimated time of arrival of the TOA compared to a time of sending embedded in the DL-PRS is different for the resent DL-PRS2 compared to the initial DL-PRS2 it may be determined that a change in the propagation environment has occurred due to the EH-UE 100 changing location. As another example, the DL-PRS may be sent in directional signaling with an indication of the direction in the DL-PRS. The EH-UE 100 may determine that the EH-UE 100 has changed location by determining that the directional signal of the retransmitted DL-PRS2 is for a different direction than the initial DL-PRS2.

[0054] At S216, gNB-N may transmit and the EH-UE 100 may receive the nth DL-PRS DL-PRSN. In example embodiments where more than 3 DL-PRS are transmitted (e.g., more than three gNBs are participating in the positioning session), additional DL-PRS may be transmitted before the DL-PRSN.

[0055] At S226, the EH-UE 100 may estimate the ToA-N and / or other positioning measurements. For example, estimates such as TDoAs for DL-PRS transmitted after the resumption of the positioning session may be estimated.

[0056] At S290, the EH-UE 100 may report the positioning measurements to the LMF 200. The positioning measurements may include positioning measurements from before and after the positioning measurement pause.

[0057] At S300, the LMF 200 may estimate the position of the EH-UE 100 based on the received positioning measurements. If the LMF 200 finds inconsistencies between the pre-pause measurements and the post-pause measurements, the LMF 200 may determine to restart the positioning process.

[0058] At S310, the EH-UE 100 the LMF 200, the gNBs, and other elements of the network may communicate based on the position estimate of the EH-UE 100.

[0059] Many of the operations of FIGs. 1 and 2 may be performed with devices which are not energy harvesting devices. For example, the reporting available energy to the LMF and the LMF deciding on constraints based on the available energy can be performed by nearly any device with a limited battery capacity which is connected to a network. This may include user devices such as cell phones, computers, and smartwatches. Also, devices that use back scattering and other methods to operate with minimal or no battery may also use these operations though some modification may be needed.

[0060] The operations of FIGs. 1 and 2 may be within the LTE positioning protocol (LPP) and / or New Radio Positioning Protocol ‘a’ (NRPPa). Accordingly, the information contained in the communications between the EH-UE 100, gNBs 300 and LMF 200 may follow the LPP and / or NRPPa protocols.

[0061] FIG. 3 illustrates an example flow diagram 3000 of a method, according to certain example embodiments. In an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 3 may be performed by a network entity, or a group of multiple network elements in a 3GPP system, such as LTE or 5G-NR. For instance, in an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 3 may be performed by a UE or computer implementing an application and / or AF, the UE and computer being similar to one of apparatuses 10 or 20 illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0062] According to certain example embodiments, the method of FIG. 3 may include, at S3010, determining, by a network element, at least one parameter with which to conduct a positioning estimation process based on an energy report received from a device. The energy report may indicate limitations of energy of the device. At S3020, the method may include controlling one or more base stations toconduct the positioning estimation process with the device based on the determination of the at least one parameter. At S3030, the method may include estimating a position of the device based on a positioning measurement report received from the device.

[0063] FIG. 4 illustrates an example flow diagram 4000 of another method, according to certain example embodiments. In an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 4 may be performed by a network entity, or a group of multiple network elements in a 3GPP system, such as LTE or 5G-NR. For instance, in an example embodiment, the method of FIG. 4 may be performed by the network (e.g., gNB, 5G core, or 5G RAN) similar to one of apparatuses 10 or 20 illustrated in FIG. 5.

[0064] According to certain example embodiments, the method of FIG. 4 may include, at S4010, the method can include sending an energy report to a network element, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of a device. At S4020, the method may include generating a positioning measurement report based on signals received from one or more base stations. At S4030, the method may include sending the positioning measurement report to the network element.

[0065] FIG. 5 illustrates a set of apparatuses 10 and 20 according to certain example embodiments. In certain example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may be elements in a communications network or associated with such a network. For example, apparatus 10 may be an AF or application implemented on a computing device or machine such as, for example, an EH-UE, and apparatus 20 may be a network (i.e., gNB, 5GS, 5G Core, 5G RAN, etc.).

[0066] In some example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may include one or more processors, one or more computer-readable storage medium (for example, memory, storage, or the like), one or more radio access components (for example, a modem, a transceiver, or the like), and / or a user interface. In some example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may be configured to operate using one or more radio access technologies, such as GSM, LTE, LTE-A, NR, 5G, WLAN, WiFi, NB- loT, Bluetooth, NFC, MulteFire, and / or any other radio access technologies. It should be noted that one of ordinary skill in the art would understand that apparatuses 10 and 20 may include components or features not shown in FIG. 5.

[0067] As illustrated in the example of FIG. 5 apparatuses 10 and 20 may include or be coupled to a processors 12 and 22 for processing information and executing instructions or operations. Processors 12 and 22 may be any type of general or specific purpose processor. In fact, processors 12 and 22 may include one or more of general-purpose computers, special purpose computers, microprocessors, digital signal processors (DSPs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), applicationspecific integrated circuits (ASICs), and processors based on a multi-core processor architecture, as examples. While a single processors 12 and 22 is shown in FIG. 5, multiple processors may be utilized according to other example embodiments. For example, it should be understood that, in certain example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may include two or more processors that may form a multiprocessor system (e.g., in this case processors 12 may represent a multiprocessor) that may support multiprocessing. According to certain example embodiments, the multiprocessor system may be tightly coupled or loosely coupled (e.g., to form a computer cluster).

[0068] Processors 12 and 22 may perform functions associated with the operation of apparatuses 10 and 20 including, as some examples, precoding of antenna gain / phase parameters, encoding and decoding of individual bits forming a communication message, formatting of information, and overall control of the apparatuses 10 and 20, including processes and examples illustrated in FIGs. 1-4.

[0069] Apparatuses 10 and 20 may further include or be coupled to a memories 14 and 24 (internal or external), which may be respectively coupled to processors 12 and 24 for storing information and instructions that may be executed by processors 12 and 24. Memories 14 and 24 may be one or more memories and of any type suitable to the local application environment, and may be implemented using any suitable volatile or nonvolatile data storage technology such as a semiconductorbased memory device, a magnetic memory device and system, an optical memory device and system, fixed memory, and / or removable memory. For example, memories 14 and 24 can be comprised of any combination of random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), static storage such as a magnetic or optical disk, hard disk drive (HDD), or any other type of non-transitory machine or computer readable media. The instructions stored in memories 14 and 24 may include programinstructions or computer program code that, when executed by processors 12 and 22, enable the apparatuses 10 and 20 to perform tasks as described herein.

[0070] In certain example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may further include or be coupled to (internal or external) a drive or port that is configured to accept and read an external computer readable storage medium, such as an optical disc, USB drive, flash drive, or any other storage medium. For example, the external computer readable storage medium may store a computer program or software for execution by processors 12 and 22 and / or apparatuses 10 and 20 to perform any of the methods and examples illustrated in FIGs. 1-4.

[0071] In some example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may also include or be coupled to one or more antennas 15 and 25 for receiving a downlink signal and for transmitting via an UL from apparatuses 10 and 20. Apparatuses 10 and 20 may further include a transceivers 18 and 28 configured to transmit and receive information. The transceivers 18 and 28 may also include a radio interface (e.g., a modem) coupled to the antennas 15 and 25. The radio interface may correspond to a plurality of radio access technologies including one or more of GSM, LTE, LTE- A, 5G, NR, WLAN, NB-IoT, Bluetooth, BT-LE, NFC, RFID, UWB, and the like. The radio interface may include other components, such as filters, converters (for example, digital-to-analog converters and the like), symbol demappers, signal shaping components, an Inverse Fast Fourier Transform (IFFT) module, and the like, to process symbols, such as OFDMA symbols, carried by a downlink or an UL.

[0072] For instance, transceivers 18 and 28 may be configured to modulate information on to a carrier waveform for transmission by the antennas 15 and 25 and demodulate information received via the antenna 15 and 25 for further processing by other elements of apparatuses 10 and 20. In other example embodiments, transceivers 18 and 28 may be capable of transmitting and receiving signals or data directly. Additionally or alternatively, in some example embodiments, apparatus 10 may include an input and / or output device (I / O device). In certain example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may further include a user interface, such as a graphical user interface or touchscreen.

[0073] In certain example embodiments, memories 14 and 34 store software modules that provide functionality when executed by processors 12 and 22. The modules may include, for example, an operating system that provides operating system functionality for apparatuses 10 and 20. The memory may also store one or more functional modules, such as an application or program, to provide additional functionality for apparatuses 10 and 20. The components of apparatuses 10 and 20 may be implemented in hardware, or as any suitable combination of hardware and software. According to certain example embodiments, apparatuses 10 and 20 may optionally be configured to communicate each other (in any combination) via a wireless or wired communication links 70 according to any radio access technology, such as NR.

[0074] According to certain example embodiments, processors 12 and 22 and memories 14 and 24 may be included in or may form a part of processing circuitry or control circuitry. In addition, in some example embodiments, transceivers 18 and 28 may be included in or may form a part of transceiving circuitry.

[0075] The apparatus 10 may further include a battery unit 11 and an energy harvester 16. The battery unit 11 may include a battery and sensors for the battery capable of determining an energy level of the battery (e.g., determining the voltage of the battery). The energy harvester 16 may be any hardware element able to generate electricity from the environment. For example, the energy harvester 16 may be a solar panel configured to harvest light to generate electricity or a radio power harvester configured to harvest radio signals to generate electricity. The energy harvester 16 may charge the battery of the battery unit 11. The battery unit 11 may power the apparatus 10.

[0076] In certain example embodiments, apparatus 10 may be controlled by memory 14 and processor 12 to send an energy report to a network element, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of a device, generate a positioning measurement report based on signals received from one or more base stations, and send the positioning measurement report to the network element.

[0077] In other example embodiments, apparatus 20 may be controlled by memory 24 and processor 22 to determine, at least one parameter with which toconduct a positioning estimation process based on an energy report received from a device. The energy report may indicate limitations of energy of the device. The apparatus 20 may also be controlled by memory 24 and processor 22 to control one or more base stations to conduct the positioning estimation process with the device based on the determination of the at least one parameter, and estimate a position of the device based on a positioning measurement report received from the device.

[0078] Certain example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus that includes means for sending an energy report to a network element. The energy report may indicate limitations of energy of a device. The apparatus may also include means for generating a positioning measurement report based on signals received from one or more base stations, and means for sending the positioning measurement report to the network element.

[0079] Other example embodiments may be directed to an apparatus that includes means for determining at least one parameter with which to conduct a positioning estimation process based on an energy report received from a device. The energy report may indicate limitations of energy of the device. The apparatus may also include means for controlling one or more base stations to conduct the positioning estimation process with the device based on the determination of the at least one parameter, and means for estimating a position of the device based on a positioning measurement report received from the device.

[0080] Certain example embodiments described herein provide several technical improvements, enhancements, and / or advantages. In some example embodiments, it may be possible to obtain the position of a device without having an error due to the energy of the device being completely depleted. Also, the positioning process may be customized for the particular device based on the constraints and needs of the device. Further, errors can be reduced by allowing pauses in the positioning process for the device to harvest energy.

[0081] A computer program product may include one or more computerexecutable components which, when the program is run, are configured to carry out some example embodiments. The one or more computer-executable components may be at least one software code or portions of it. Modifications and configurationsrequired for implementing functionality of certain example embodiments may be performed as routine(s), which may be implemented as added or updated software routine(s). Software routine(s) may be downloaded into the apparatus.

[0082] As an example, software or a computer program code or portions of it may be in a source code form, object code form, or in some intermediate form, and it may be stored in some sort of carrier, distribution medium, or computer readable medium, which may be any entity or device capable of carrying the program. Such carriers may include a record medium, computer memory, read-only memory, photoelectrical and / or electrical carrier signal, telecommunications signal, and software distribution package, for example. Depending on the processing power needed, the computer program may be executed in a single electronic digital computer or it may be distributed amongst a number of computers. The computer readable medium or computer readable storage medium may be a non-transitory medium.

[0083] In other example embodiments, the functionality may be performed by hardware or circuitry included in an apparatus (e.g., apparatus 10 or apparatus 20), for example through the use of an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable gate array (PGA), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or any other combination of hardware and software. In yet another example embodiment, the functionality may be implemented as a signal, a non-tangible means that can be carried by an electromagnetic signal downloaded from the Internet or other network.

[0084] According to certain example embodiments, an apparatus, such as a node, device, or a corresponding component, may be configured as circuitry, a computer or a microprocessor, such as single-chip computer element, or as a chipset, including at least a memory for providing storage capacity used for arithmetic operation and an operation processor for executing the arithmetic operation.

[0085] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of a 5G network and system architecture according to certain example embodiments. Shown are multiple network functions that may be implemented as software operating as part of a network device or dedicated hardware, as a network device itself or dedicated hardware, or as a virtual function operating as a network device or dedicated hardware. The NE and UEillustrated in FIG. 6 may be similar to apparatuses 20 and 10, respectively. The user plane function (UPF) may provide services such as intra-RAT and inter-RAT mobility, routing and forwarding of data packets, inspection of packets, user plane quality of service (QoS) processing, buffering of downlink packets, and / or triggering of downlink data notifications. The application function (AF) may primarily interface with the core network to facilitate application usage of traffic routing and interact with the policy framework.

[0086] According to certain example embodiments, processors 12 and 22, and memories 14 and 24, may be included in or may form a part of processing circuitry or control circuitry. In addition, in some example embodiments, transceivers 18 and 28 may be included in or may form a part of transceiving circuitry.

[0087] In some example embodiments, an apparatus (e.g., Apparatus 10 and / or Apparatus 20) may include means for performing a method, a process, or any of the variants discussed herein. Examples of the means may include one or more processors, memory, controllers, transmitters, receivers, and / or computer program code for causing the performance of the operations.

[0088] One having ordinary skill in the art will readily understand that the invention as discussed above may be practiced with procedures in a different order, and / or with hardware elements in configurations which are different than those which are disclosed. Therefore, although the invention has been described based upon these example embodiments, it would be apparent to those of skill in the art that certain modifications, variations, and alternative constructions would be apparent, while remaining within the spirit and scope of example embodiments. Although the above embodiments refer to 5G NR and LTE technology, the above embodiments may also apply to any other present or future 3GPP technology, such as LTE-advanced, and / or fourth generation (4G) technology.

[0089] Partial Glossary

[0090] 3GPP 3rd Generation Partnership Project

[0091] 5G 5th Generation

[0092] 5GCN 5G Core Network

[0093] BS Base Station

[0094] DL Downlink

[0095] eNB Enhanced Node B

[0096] gNB 5G or Next Generation NodeB

[0097] LTE Long Term Evolution

[0098] NM Network Manager

[0099] NR New Radio

[0100] UE User Equipment

[0101] BW Bandwidth

[0102] EH Energy harvesting

[0103] loT Internet of things

[0104] LMF Location management function

[0105] PRS Positioning reference signal

[0106] ToA Time of arrival

[0107] TDoA Time difference of arrival

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A method comprising: determining, by a network element, at least one parameter with which to conduct a positioning estimation process based on an energy report received from a device, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of the device; controlling one or more base stations to conduct the positioning estimation process with the device based on the determination of the at least one parameter; and estimating a position of the device based on a positioning measurement report received from the device.

2. The method of claim 1, further comprising: controlling communication with the device based on the estimated position of the device.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the determining the at least one parameter with which to conduct the positioning estimation process further comprises at least: determining a number of base stations and a bandwidth for each of the base stations with which to conduct the positioning estimation process.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein the positioning measurement report comprises at least one of time differences of arrival information, time difference of arrival, carrier phase information, line of sight probability, angle of arrival, reference signal received power for signals from each of the one or more of base stations.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising: pausing the positioning estimation process based on an energy alert received from the device.

6. The method of claim 5, further comprising: determining whether to resume the positioning estimation process based on a position measurement resume message received from the device.

7. A method comprising: sending an energy report to a network element, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of a device; generating a positioning measurement report based on signals received from one or more base stations; and sending the positioning measurement report to the network element.

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising: communicating with a network comprising the network element and the one or more base stations based on instructions received from the network element.

9. The method of claim 7, wherein the positioning measurement report comprises at least one of time differences of arrival information, time difference of arrival, carrier phase information, line of sight probability, angle of arrival, reference signal received power for signals from each of the one or more of base stations.

10. The method of claim 7, further comprising: determining, by a device an energy alert based on an energy level of the device and a first threshold; and sending the energy level alert to the network element, the energy level alert comprising a request to pause a positioning estimation process, the positioning estimation process comprising the generating the positioning measurement report based on signals received from a one or more of base stations.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: determining to resume the positioning estimation process based on the energy level of the device and a length of the pause in the positioning estimation process.

12. An apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory comprising computer program code,the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured, with the at least one processor, to cause the apparatus at least to determine at least one parameter with which to conduct a positioning estimation process based on an energy report received from a device, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of the device; control one or more base stations to conduct the positioning estimation process with the device based on the determination of the at least one parameter; and estimate a position of the device based on a positioning measurement report received from the device.

13. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured, with the at least one processor, to cause the apparatus to further: control communication with the device based on the estimated position of the device.

14. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the determining the at least one parameter with which to conduct the positioning estimation process further comprises at least: determining a number of base stations and a bandwidth for each of the base stations with which to conduct the positioning estimation process.

15. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the positioning measurement report comprises at least one of time differences of arrival information, time difference of arrival, carrier phase information, line of sight probability, angle of arrival, reference signal received power for signals from each of the one or more of base stations.

16. The apparatus of claim 12, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured, with the at least one processor, to cause the apparatus to further: pause the positioning estimation process based on an energy alert received from the device.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured, with the at least one processor, to cause the apparatus to further: determine whether to resume the positioning estimation process based on a position measurement resume message received from the device.

18. An apparatus, comprising: at least one processor; and at least one memory comprising computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured, with the at least one processor, to cause the apparatus at least to send an energy report to a network element, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of an device; generate a positioning measurement report based on signals received from one or more base stations; and send the positioning measurement report to the network element.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured, with the at least one processor, to cause the apparatus to further: communicate with a network comprising the network element and the one or more base stations based on instructions received from the network element.

20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the positioning measurement report comprises at least one of time differences of arrival information, time difference of arrival, carrier phase information, line of sight probability, angle of arrival, reference signal received power for signals from each of the one or more of base stations.

21. The apparatus of claim 18 , wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured, with the at least one processor, to cause the apparatus to further:determine, by a device an energy alert based on an energy level of the device and a first threshold; and send the energy level alert to the network element, the energy level alert comprising a request to pause a positioning estimation process, the positioning estimation process comprising the generating the positioning measurement report based on signals received from a one or more of base stations.

22. The apparatus of claim 21 , wherein the at least one memory and the computer program code are configured, with the at least one processor, to cause the apparatus to further: determine to resume the positioning estimation process based on the energy level of the device and a length of the pause in the positioning estimation process.

23. An apparatus, comprising: means for determining at least one parameter with which to conduct a positioning estimation process based on an energy report received from a device, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of the device; means for controlling one or more base stations to conduct the positioning estimation process with the device based on the determination of the at least one parameter; and means for estimating a position of the device based on a positioning measurement report received from the device.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, further comprising: means for controlling communication with the device based on the estimated position of the device.

25. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the means for determining the at least one parameter with which to conduct the positioning estimation process further comprises at least: means for determining a number of base stations and a bandwidth for each of the base stations with which to conduct the positioning estimation process.

26. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the positioning measurement report comprises at least one of time differences of arrival information, time difference of arrival, carrier phase information, line of sight probability, angle of arrival, reference signal received power for signals from each of the one or more of base stations.

27. The apparatus of claim 23, further comprising: means for pausing the positioning estimation process based on an energy alert received from the device.

28. The apparatus of claim 27, further comprising: means for determining whether to resume the positioning estimation process based on a position measurement resume message received from the device.

29. An apparatus comprising: means for sending an energy report to a network element, the energy report indicating limitations of energy of an device; means for generating a positioning measurement report based on signals received from one or more base stations; and means for sending the positioning measurement report to the network element.

30. The apparatus of claim 29, further comprising: means for communicating with a network comprising the network element and the one or more base stations based on instructions received from the network element.

31. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the positioning measurement report comprises at least one of time differences of arrival information, time difference of arrival, carrier phase information, line of sight probability, angle of arrival, reference signal received power for signals from each of the one or more of base stations.

32. The apparatus of claim 29, further comprising:means for determining an energy alert based on an energy level of the apparatus and a first threshold; and means for sending the energy level alert to the network element, the energy level alert comprising a request to pause a positioning estimation process, the positioning estimation process comprising the generating the positioning measurement report based on signals received from a one or more of base stations.

33. The apparatus of claim 32, further comprising: means for determining to resume the positioning estimation process based on the energy level of the apparatus and a length of the pause in the positioning estimation process.

34. An apparatus, comprising: circuitry configured to perform the method according to any of claims 1-11.

35. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising program instructions stored thereon that, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform at least the method according to any of claims 1-11.

36. A computer program comprising instructions, which, when executed by an apparatus, cause the apparatus to perform the method of any of claims 1-11.

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