Authorization method, communication device, communication system and storage medium

Abstract

The embodiments of the present disclosure provide an authorization method, a communication device, a communication system and a storage medium. The method is executed by a first device, and comprises: sending first information to a second device, wherein the first information is used for indicating whether the second device is authorized to collect positioning measurement data of a first device. In the technical solution provided in the embodiments of the present disclosure, a first device sends first information to a second device, so as to use the first information to indicate the authorization status of the first device in respect of the behavior of collecting positioning measurement data, such that the second device can only collect the positioning measurement data of the first device after obtaining authorization from the first device, thereby realizing the privacy protection of the first device, and reducing the risk of the positioning measurement data of the first device being disclosed to an unauthorized second device.

Description

Authorization methods, communication equipment, communication systems and storage media Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of communication technology, and in particular to authorized methods, communication devices, communication systems and storage media. Background Technology

[0002] High-precision positioning based on artificial intelligence (AI) or machine learning (ML) is an important application of artificial intelligence technology in the field of communications. To achieve high accuracy for different positioning application scenarios, different datasets are needed to train AI and / or ML models for different positioning application scenarios.

[0003] Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides an authorization method, a communication device, a communication system, and a storage medium.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an authorization method is provided, wherein the method is performed by a first device, the method comprising:

[0006] Send a first message to the second device; the first message is used to indicate whether to authorize the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, an authorization method is provided, wherein the method is performed by a second device, the method comprising:

[0008] Receive first information sent by the first device; the first information is used to indicate whether to authorize the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, an authorization method is provided, wherein the method is performed by a communication system, the method comprising:

[0010] The first device sends a first message to the second device; the first message is used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0011] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, a first device is provided, wherein the first device includes:

[0012] The sending module is configured to send first information to the second device; the first information is used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0013] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, a second device is provided, wherein the second device includes:

[0014] The receiving module is configured to receive first information sent by the first device; the first information is used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0015] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, a communication system is provided, wherein the communication system includes a first device and a second device, the first device being configured to implement the authorization method provided in the first aspect, and the second device being configured to implement the authorization method provided in the second aspect.

[0016] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, a communication device is provided, wherein the communication device includes:

[0017] One or more processors;

[0018] The processor is used to invoke instructions to cause the communication device to execute the authorization method provided by the first aspect or the second aspect.

[0019] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, a storage medium is provided, wherein the storage medium stores instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the authorization method provided in the first or second aspect.

[0020] The technical solution provided in this disclosure sends first information to a second device through a first device. The first information is used to indicate the authorization status of the first device for collecting positioning measurement data. This allows the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device only after obtaining authorization from the first device. If the second device does not obtain authorization from the first device, it stops collecting the positioning measurement data of the first device. This can protect the privacy of the first device and reduce the risk that the positioning measurement data of the first device will be disclosed to an unauthorized second device.

[0021] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and are not intended to limit the embodiments of this disclosure. Attached Figure Description

[0022] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments of the invention.

[0023] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0024] Figure 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a direct localization method based on an AI model according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0025] Figure 1C is a schematic diagram illustrating an AI model-assisted indirect localization method according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0026] Figure 2A is one of the interactive schematic diagrams of an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0027] Figure 2B is a second interactive schematic diagram of an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0028] Figure 3A is a schematic flowchart illustrating one of the authorization methods according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0029] Figure 3B is a second schematic flowchart illustrating an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0030] Figure 3C is a third schematic flowchart illustrating an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0031] Figure 4A is a schematic flowchart of an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0032] Figure 4B is a fifth schematic flowchart illustrating an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0033] Figure 4C is a schematic flowchart of an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0034] Figure 5 is a third interactive schematic diagram of an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0035] Figure 6A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a first device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0036] Figure 6B is a schematic diagram of the structure of a second device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0037] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram of the structure of a communication device according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0038] Figure 7B is a schematic diagram of the structure of a chip according to an exemplary embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0039] This disclosure provides an authorization method, a communication device, a communication system, and a storage medium.

[0040] In a first aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide an authorization method, wherein the method is executed by a first device, and the method includes:

[0041] Send a first message to the second device; the first message is used to indicate whether to authorize the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0042] In the above embodiments, before the second device collects the positioning measurement data of the first device, the first device sends a first message to the second device to indicate the authorization status of the first device for collecting positioning measurement data. This ensures that the second device can only collect the positioning measurement data of the first device after obtaining authorization from the first device. If the second device does not obtain authorization from the first device, it will not collect the positioning measurement data of the first device, thereby protecting the privacy of the first device and reducing the risk that the positioning measurement data of the first device will be disclosed to an unauthorized second device.

[0043] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first device includes a Positioning Reference Unit (PRU) and / or User Equipment (UE).

[0044] In the above embodiments, for some positioning scenarios that require the collection of positioning measurement data of PRU and / or UE, the PRU and / or UE send first information so that the second device can only collect the positioning measurement data of PRU and / or UE after obtaining authorization from PRU and / or UE, thereby improving the security and privacy protection of PRU and / or UE.

[0045] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the second device includes at least one of the following:

[0046] Location Management Function (LMF);

[0047] Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF).

[0048] In the above embodiments, since LMF and AMF are network functions in the core network equipment used to manage the location information and / or location requests of UEs, the first device sends a first message to at least one of LMF and AMF so that the second device can initiate the location of the first device after obtaining authorization from the first device, in order to collect the location measurement data of the first device; thereby ensuring that the authorized second device has the ability to obtain the location measurement data of the first device, so as to reduce unnecessary authorization to the second device that does not have the ability to obtain location measurement data.

[0049] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, sending the first information to the second device includes at least one of the following:

[0050] During the Mobile Terminating Location Request (MT-LR) process, the first information is sent to the second device;

[0051] During the process of the terminal triggering a Mobile Origibating Location Request (MO-LR), the first information is sent to the second device;

[0052] Send a Long Term Evolution (LTE) Positioning Protocol (LPP) message to the second device, the LPP message carrying the first information;

[0053] If the first device is a PRU, the first information is sent to the second device during the PRU association process.

[0054] In the above embodiments, since the above scenarios all belong to the positioning scenarios of the first device or the scenarios in which the positioning measurement data of the first device is exchanged, the first information is sent to the second device in the above scenarios, so that the second device can collect the positioning measurement data measured or exchanged in the above scenarios after obtaining the authorization of the first device; on the one hand, the second device is authorized to collect positioning measurement data in the existing positioning process, so as to reduce the situation where the first device authorizes the second device to collect positioning measurement data when there is no positioning measurement data, thereby reducing the number of times the first device is positioned and saving network resources.

[0055] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, sending the first information to the second device during the terminal triggering a location request (MO-LR) includes:

[0056] Send an MO-LR location request message to the second device, the MO-LR location request message including the first information.

[0057] In the above embodiments, in the MO-LR scenario where the positioning process initiated by the first device is initiated, the first device can reuse the MO-LR positioning request message to transmit first information to the second device. On the one hand, this can reduce signaling overhead, and on the other hand, while initiating the positioning of the first device, the first information can be used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data measured in the MO-LR scenario. This allows the authorized second device to execute the positioning measurement process of the first device after receiving the MO-LR positioning request message. While using the positioning measurement data to calculate the location information of the first device in response to the positioning request of the first device, the positioning measurement data of the first device is collected, thereby reducing unnecessary transmission of positioning measurement data and saving network resources.

[0058] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, sending the first information to the second device during the terminal's termination of the MT-LR location request includes:

[0059] Send a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) message to the second device, the NAS message including the first information.

[0060] In the above embodiments, in the network-triggered positioning process, i.e., the MT-LR scenario, since the UE and the core network equipment interact through NAS messages, the first device can reuse NAS messages to transmit first information to the second device. Thus, while performing the necessary interaction in the positioning process through NAS messages, the first information is used to indicate whether to authorize the second device to collect the positioning measurement data measured in the MT-LR scenario. This allows the authorized second device to collect the positioning measurement data generated during the positioning process of the first device, thereby reducing unnecessary transmission of positioning measurement data and saving network resources.

[0061] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, sending the first information to the second device during the PRU association process includes:

[0062] A request message is sent to the second device, the request message being used to request the PRU to associate with the LMF, and the associated PRU being used to locate the third device; the request message includes the first information.

[0063] In the above embodiments, the PRU reuses the request message used in the PRU association process to request the PRU to associate with the LMF to transmit the first information to the second device, so that the authorized second device can directly obtain the positioning measurement data generated in the PRU association process, thereby reducing the number of times the first device is located and saving network resources.

[0064] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the LPP message includes location information provided by the LPP.

[0065] In the above embodiments, since LPP provides location information as a message from the UE to the core network device to provide its own location information, the first device carries the first information by reusing LPP to provide location information, so that the authorized second device can obtain the positioning measurement data of the first device by parsing the LPP to provide location information after receiving it, thereby reducing unnecessary transmission of positioning measurement data and saving network resources.

[0066] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0067] The device receives a second message sent by the second device, the second message being used to request the first message.

[0068] In the above embodiments, the first device obtains the authorization request from the second device by receiving the second information sent by the second device, thereby triggering the first device to authorize the second device to collect positioning measurement data; thus, the privacy protection of the first device can be improved.

[0069] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, receiving the second information sent by the second device includes at least one of the following:

[0070] When the second device is an AMF, a NAS message sent by the second device is received, the NAS message including the second information;

[0071] In the case that the second device is an LMF, an LPP message sent by the second device is received, the LPP message including the second information.

[0072] In the above embodiments, when the second device has different network functions, the corresponding network functions and the existing interactive information of the first device are reused to transmit the second information, thereby reducing information overhead.

[0073] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following:

[0074] Authorization instruction information is used to indicate whether the second device is allowed or denied to collect the positioning measurement data;

[0075] Authorization type information, used to indicate the number of times the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data of the first device;

[0076] Time information is used to indicate the time range within which the second device is allowed or denied to collect positioning measurement data from the first device.

[0077] In the above embodiments, by including at least one of the above information in the first information, the second device can decode more authorization information of the first device authorizing the second device to collect positioning measurement data based on the first information. Thus, while using the authorization indication information to indicate the authorization status of the second device for collecting positioning measurement data in this instance, the authorization type information and / or time information can also indicate the authorization status of the first device for the second device to collect positioning measurement data in the future, thereby effectively improving authorization efficiency and reducing the number of information interactions.

[0078] In conjunction with some embodiments of the first aspect, in some embodiments, the authorization type information is further used to indicate an authorization type, which includes at least one of the following:

[0079] In the first type, where the authorization type is the first type and the authorization indication information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect the positioning measurement data multiple times, the first device allows the second device to collect the positioning measurement data multiple times.

[0080] In the second type, where the authorization type is the second type and the authorization indication information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect the positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect the positioning measurement data once.

[0081] In the above embodiments, authorization type information is used to indicate different authorization types, so that the first device can grant different types of authorization for the second device to collect positioning measurement data according to different security or privacy protection requirements, thereby improving the flexibility of authorization.

[0082] Secondly, embodiments of this disclosure provide an authorization method, wherein the method is executed by a second device, and the method includes:

[0083] Receive first information sent by the first device; the first information is used to indicate whether to authorize the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0084] In the above embodiments, the second device receives first information sent by the first device to determine whether the first device authorizes the second device to collect location measurement data. This ensures that the second device only collects the location measurement data of the first device after obtaining authorization from the first device, and stops collecting the location measurement data of the first device if the second device does not obtain authorization from the first device. This enables the protection of the privacy of the first device and reduces the risk that the location measurement data of the first device will be disclosed to an unauthorized second device.

[0085] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the positioning measurement data is used by the second device to perform at least one of the following:

[0086] Training and / or maintenance of the localization model;

[0087] The positioning measurement data is sent to a third device; wherein the positioning measurement data is used by the third device to perform training and / or maintenance of the positioning model.

[0088] In the above embodiments, when the positioning model is deployed on a second device, the second device uses the collected positioning measurement data to perform operations related to the positioning model; when the positioning model is deployed on a third device, the second device sends the positioning measurement data to the third device so that the third device can use the positioning measurement data to perform operations related to the positioning model. Thus, for different deployment scenarios of the positioning model, the positioning measurement data collected by the second device can be used as training data and / or test data for the positioning model to improve its positioning accuracy.

[0089] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first device includes a positioning reference unit (PRU) and / or a user equipment (UE).

[0090] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the second device includes at least one of the following:

[0091] Location Management Function (LMF);

[0092] Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF).

[0093] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, when the first information indicates that the second device is permitted to collect the positioning measurement data, the triggering for the second device to acquire the positioning measurement data of the first device includes:

[0094] The first type of demand is related to the positioning of the first device;

[0095] The second type of demand is unrelated to the positioning of the first device.

[0096] In the above embodiments, when the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device, the second device can collect the positioning measurement data when triggered by a first type of demand related to the positioning of the first device, so as to locate the first device using the collected positioning measurement data. Alternatively, the second device can also collect the positioning measurement data when triggered by a second type of demand unrelated to the positioning of the first device, so as to use the collected positioning measurement data to realize other functions; thus, the collection of positioning measurement data can be carried out only after obtaining the permission of the first device in different usage scenarios, improving the application flexibility of the authorization method.

[0097] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the second type of requirement includes at least one of the following:

[0098] Training requirements for the localization model;

[0099] Testing requirements for the positioning model.

[0100] In the above embodiments, when the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device, the second device can collect the positioning measurement data when triggered by the training or testing needs of the positioning model. This enables the protection of the privacy of the first device and also allows the use of real and valid positioning measurement data to train and test the positioning model, thereby improving the positioning accuracy of the positioning model.

[0101] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, receiving the first information sent by the first device includes at least one of the following:

[0102] During the process of the terminal terminating the MT-LR location request, the first information sent by the first device is received;

[0103] During the process of the terminal triggering a location request MO-LR, the first information sent by the first device is received;

[0104] Receive a Long Term Evolution Positioning Protocol (LPP) message sent by the first device, wherein the LPP message includes the first information;

[0105] If the first device is a PRU, the first information sent by the PRU is received during the PRU association process.

[0106] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, receiving the first information sent by the first device during the terminal triggering a location request (MO-LR) includes:

[0107] The system receives an MO-LR location request message sent by the first device, the MO-LR location request message including the first information.

[0108] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, receiving the first information sent by the first device during the terminal's termination of the MT-LR location request includes:

[0109] Receive a non-access stratum NAS message sent by the first device, the NAS message including the first information.

[0110] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, receiving the first information sent by the PRU during the PRU association process includes:

[0111] The system receives a request message sent by the PRU, which requests the PRU to associate with the LMF. The associated PRU is then used to locate the third device. The request message includes the first information.

[0112] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0113] If the second device is an AMF, the first information is sent to an LMF.

[0114] In the above embodiments, when the second device is an AMF, after receiving the first information sent by the first device, the second device can forward the first information to the LMF so that the LMF can determine whether the first device has authorized it based on the first information, and then determine whether to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device, thereby achieving privacy protection for the first device.

[0115] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, receiving the Long Term Evolution (LPP) message sent by the first device includes:

[0116] If the second device is an LMF, the LPP message sent by the first device is received.

[0117] In the above embodiments, when the second device is an LMF, the LPP messages used for interaction between the first device and the LMF can be directly reused to receive the first information sent by the first device, thereby reducing information overhead.

[0118] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the LPP message includes location information provided by the LPP.

[0119] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0120] Send a second message to the first device, the second message being used to request the first message.

[0121] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, sending the second information to the first device includes at least one of the following:

[0122] If the second device is an AMF, a NAS message is sent to the first device, the NAS message including the second information;

[0123] If the second device is an LMF, an LPP message is sent to the first device, the LPP message including the second information.

[0124] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following:

[0125] Authorization instruction information, used to indicate permission for the second device to collect the positioning measurement data;

[0126] Authorization type information, used to indicate the number of times the second device is allowed or denied to collect positioning measurement data of the first device;

[0127] Time information is used to indicate the time range within which the second device is allowed or denied to collect positioning measurement data from the first device.

[0128] In conjunction with some embodiments of the second aspect, in some embodiments, the authorization type information is further used to indicate an authorization type, which includes at least one of the following:

[0129] In the first type, where the authorization type is the first type and the authorization indication information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect the positioning measurement data multiple times, the first device allows the second device to collect the positioning measurement data multiple times.

[0130] In the second type, where the authorization type is the second type and the authorization indication information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect the positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect the positioning measurement data once.

[0131] Thirdly, embodiments of this disclosure provide an authorization method, wherein the method is executed by a communication system, and the method includes:

[0132] The first device sends a first message to the second device; the first message is used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0133] Fourthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a first device, wherein the first device apparatus includes:

[0134] The sending module is configured to send first information to the second device; the first information is used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0135] Fifthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a second device, wherein the second device includes:

[0136] The receiving module is configured to receive first information sent by the first device; the first information is used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0137] In a sixth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication system, wherein the communication system includes a first device and a second device, the first device being configured to implement the authorization method described in the optional implementation of the first aspect, and the second device being configured to implement the authorization method described in the optional implementation of the second aspect.

[0138] In a seventh aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a communication device, the communication device comprising:

[0139] One or more processors;

[0140] The processor is configured to invoke instructions to cause the communication device to execute the authorization method described in the optional implementation of the first or second aspect.

[0141] Eighthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the authorization method described in an optional implementation of the first or second aspect.

[0142] Ninthly, embodiments of this disclosure provide a program product that, when executed by a communication device, causes the communication device to perform the authorization method described in an optional implementation of the first or second aspect.

[0143] In a tenth aspect, embodiments of this disclosure provide a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform the authorized method described in an optional implementation of the first or second aspect.

[0144] It is understood that the first device, the second device, the communication device, the communication system, the storage medium, the program product, and the computer program described above are all used to execute the methods provided in the embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the beneficial effects that can be achieved can be referred to the beneficial effects in the corresponding methods, and will not be repeated here.

[0145] This disclosure provides an authorization method, a communication device, a communication system, and a storage medium. In some embodiments, the terms "authorization method" and "information processing method," "information transmission method," etc., can be used interchangeably, as can the terms "communication system," "information processing system," etc.

[0146] This disclosure is not exhaustive, but merely illustrative of some embodiments, and is not intended to limit the scope of protection of this disclosure. Unless otherwise specified, each step in a particular embodiment can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the steps can be arbitrarily combined. For example, a solution after removing some steps in a particular embodiment can also be implemented as an independent embodiment, and the order of the steps in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily interchanged. Furthermore, the optional implementation methods in a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined; moreover, the embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, for example, some or all steps of different embodiments can be arbitrarily combined, and a particular embodiment can be arbitrarily combined with the optional implementation methods of other embodiments.

[0147] In each of the disclosed embodiments, unless otherwise specified or in case of logical conflict, the terminology and / or descriptions of the embodiments are consistent and can be referenced by each other. Technical features in different embodiments can be combined to form new embodiments based on their inherent logical relationships.

[0148] The terminology used in the embodiments of this disclosure is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of this disclosure.

[0149] In this embodiment of the disclosure, unless otherwise stated, elements expressed in the singular form, such as "a," "an," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "the," "this," etc., can mean "one and only one," or "one or more," "at least one," etc. For example, when using articles such as "a," "an," "the," etc. in translation, the noun following the article can be understood as either a singular expression or a plural expression.

[0150] In the embodiments disclosed herein, "multiple" refers to two or more.

[0151] In some embodiments, the terms “at least one of”, “one or more”, “a plurality of”, “multiple”, etc., may be used interchangeably.

[0152] In some embodiments, the notation "at least one of A and B", "A and / or B", "A in one case, B in another", "A in one case, B in another", etc., may include the following technical solutions depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (A is executed regardless of B); in some embodiments, B (B is executed regardless of A); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed); in some embodiments, A and B (both A and B are executed). The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, C, etc.

[0153] In some embodiments, the notation "A or B" may include the following technical solutions, depending on the situation: in some embodiments, A (execution of A regardless of B); in some embodiments, B (execution of B regardless of A); in some embodiments, execution is selected from A and B (A and B are selectively executed). The same applies when there are more branches such as A, B, C, etc.

[0154] The prefixes "first," "second," etc., used in the embodiments of this disclosure are merely for distinguishing different descriptive objects and do not impose restrictions on the position, order, priority, quantity, or content of the descriptive objects. The description of the descriptive objects is found in the claims or the context of the embodiments, and the use of prefixes should not constitute unnecessary restrictions. For example, if the descriptive object is a "field," the ordinal numbers preceding "field" in "first field" and "second field" do not restrict the position or order of the "fields." "First" and "second" do not restrict whether the "fields" they modify are in the same message, nor do they restrict the order of "first field" and "second field." Similarly, if the descriptive object is a "level," the ordinal numbers preceding "level" in "first level" and "second level" do not restrict the priority between "levels." Furthermore, the number of descriptive objects is not limited by ordinal numbers and can be one or more. For example, in "first device," the number of "devices" can be one or more. Furthermore, the objects modified by different prefixes can be the same or different. For example, if the object being described is "device", then "first device" and "second device" can be the same device or different devices, and their types can be the same or different. Similarly, if the object being described is "information", then "first information" and "second information" can be the same information or different information, and their content can be the same or different.

[0155] In some embodiments, “including A,” “containing A,” “for indicating A,” and “carrying A” can be interpreted as directly carrying A or indirectly indicating A.

[0156] In some embodiments, terms such as “…”, “determine…”, “in the case of…”, “when…”, “when…”, “if…”, etc. can be used interchangeably.

[0157] In some embodiments, the terms “greater than,” “greater than or equal to,” “not less than,” “more than,” “more than or equal to,” “not less than,” “higher than,” “higher than or equal to,” “not lower than,” and “above” can be used interchangeably, as can the terms “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not greater than,” “less than,” “less than or equal to,” “not more than,” “lower than,” “lower than or equal to,” “not higher than,” and “below”.

[0158] In some embodiments, devices, etc., can be interpreted as physical or virtual, and their names are not limited to the names recorded in the embodiments. Terms such as “device”, “equipment”, “circuit”, “network element”, “node”, “function”, “unit”, “section”, “system”, “network”, “chip”, “chip system”, “entity”, and “subject” can be used interchangeably.

[0159] In some embodiments, "network" can be interpreted as devices included in a network (e.g., access network devices, core network devices, etc.).

[0160] In some embodiments, the terms "access network device (AN device)," "radio access network device (RAN device)," "base station (BS)," "radio base station," "fixed station," "node," "access point," "transmission point (TP)," "reception point (RP)," "transmission / reception point (TRP)," "panel," "antenna panel," "antenna array," "cell," "macro cell," "small cell," "femto cell," "pico cell," "sector," "cell group," "serving cell," "carrier," "component carrier," and "bandwidth part (BWP)" can be used interchangeably.

[0161] In some embodiments, the terms "terminal", "terminal device", "user equipment (UE)", "user terminal", "mobile station (MS)", "mobile terminal (MT)", "subscriber station", "mobile unit", "subscriber unit", "wireless unit", "remote unit", "mobile device", "wireless device", "wireless communication device", "remote device", "mobile subscriber station", "access terminal", "mobile terminal", "wireless terminal", "remote terminal", "handset", "user agent", "mobile client", and "client" can be used interchangeably.

[0162] In some embodiments, access network devices, core network devices, or network devices can be replaced by terminals. For example, embodiments of this disclosure can also be applied to structures where communication between access network devices, core network devices, or network devices and terminals is replaced by communication between multiple terminals (e.g., device-to-device (D2D), vehicle-to-everything (V2X), etc.). In this case, the structure can also be configured such that the terminal has all or part of the functions of the access network device. Furthermore, terms such as "uplink" and "downlink" can be replaced with terms corresponding to communication between terminals (e.g., "sidelink"). For example, uplink channel, downlink channel, etc., can be replaced with sidelink channel, and uplink link, downlink, etc., can be replaced with sidelink link.

[0163] In some embodiments, the terminal may be replaced by an access network device, a core network device, or a network device. In this case, the access network device, core network device, or network device may also be configured to have all or some of the functions of the terminal.

[0164] In some embodiments, the acquisition of data, information, etc., may comply with the laws and regulations of the country where the location is situated.

[0165] In some embodiments, data, information, etc., may be obtained with the user's consent.

[0166] Furthermore, each element, each row, or each column in the table of this disclosure can be implemented as an independent embodiment, and any combination of any element, any row, or any column can also be implemented as an independent embodiment.

[0167] Figure 1A is a schematic diagram of the architecture of a communication system according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0168] As shown in Figure 1A, the communication system 100 includes a first device 101 and a second device 102.

[0169] In some embodiments, the first device 101 may include: a user equipment UE 1011 and / or a positioning reference unit PRU 1012.

[0170] In some embodiments, user equipment 1011 includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following: mobile phone, wearable device, Internet of Things device, car with communication function, smart car, tablet computer, computer with wireless transceiver function, virtual reality (VR) terminal device, augmented reality (AR) terminal device, wireless terminal device in industrial control, wireless terminal device in self-driving, wireless terminal device in remote medical surgery, wireless terminal device in smart grid, wireless terminal device in transportation safety, wireless terminal device in smart city, and wireless terminal device in smart home.

[0171] In some embodiments, the positioning reference unit PRU 1012 includes: a UE and / or an access network device.

[0172] In some embodiments, the access network device may be a node or device that connects a terminal to a wireless network. The access network device may include, but is not limited to, at least one of the following in a 5G communication system: evolved Node B (eNB), next-generation eNB (ng-eNB), next-generation Node B (gNB), node B (NB), home node B (HNB), home evolved node B (HeNB), radio backhaul device, radio network controller (RNC), base station controller (BSC), base transceiver station (BTS), base band unit (BBU), mobile switching center, base station in a 6G communication system, open RAN, cloud RAN, base station in other communication systems, and access node in a Wi-Fi system.

[0173] In some embodiments, the technical solutions of this disclosure can be applied to the Open RAN architecture. In this case, the interfaces between or within access network devices involved in the embodiments of this disclosure can be transformed into internal interfaces of Open RAN. The processes and information interactions between these internal interfaces can be implemented by software or programs.

[0174] In some embodiments, the access network device may be composed of a central unit (CU) and a distributed unit (DU). The CU may also be called a control unit. The CU-DU structure can separate the protocol layer of the access network device. Some of the protocol layer functions are centrally controlled by the CU, while the remaining part or all of the protocol layer functions are distributed in the DU and centrally controlled by the CU. However, this is not the only possibility.

[0175] In some embodiments, the second device 102 may include a core network device 1021.

[0176] In some embodiments, the core network device 1021 may be a single device including a first network function 1021a and a second network function 1021b, or it may be multiple devices or a group of devices, each including the first network function 1021a and the second network function 1021b. Network functions may be virtual or physical. The core network may include, for example, at least one of an Evolved Packet Core (EPC), a 5G Core Network (5GCN), and a Next Generation Core (NGC).

[0177] In some embodiments, the first network function 1021a is, for example, LMF.

[0178] In some embodiments, the second network function 1021b is, for example, an AMF.

[0179] In some embodiments, the second network function 1021b is used for access and mobility management, such as registration management, connection management, and mobility management, and the name is not limited thereto.

[0180] In some embodiments, the first network function 1021a and the second network function 1021b may be network elements independent of the core network equipment.

[0181] It is understood that the communication system described in this disclosure is for the purpose of more clearly illustrating the technical solutions of this disclosure, and does not constitute a limitation on the technical solutions provided in this disclosure. As those skilled in the art will know, with the evolution of system architecture and the emergence of new business scenarios, the technical solutions provided in this disclosure are also applicable to similar technical problems.

[0182] The following embodiments of this disclosure can be applied to the communication system 100 shown in FIG1A, or to some of the main bodies, but are not limited thereto. The main bodies shown in FIG1A are illustrative. The communication system may include all or some of the main bodies in FIG1A, or it may include other main bodies outside of FIG1A. The number and form of each main body are arbitrary. The connection relationship between the main bodies is illustrative. The main bodies may not be connected or may be connected. The connection can be in any way, it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection, it can be a wired connection or a wireless connection.

[0183] The embodiments disclosed herein can be applied to Long Term Evolution (LTE), LTE-Advanced (LTE-A), LTE-Beyond (LTE-B), SUPER 3G, IMT-Advanced, 4th generation mobile communication system (4G), 5th generation mobile communication system (5G), 5G new radio (NR), Future Radio Access (FRA), New-Radio Access Technology (RAT), New Radio (NR), New radio access (NX), Future generation radio access (FX), Global System for Mobile communications (GSM), CDMA2000, Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi), IEEE 802.16 (WiMAX), and IEEE 802.20, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Bluetooth (a registered trademark), Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) networks, Device-to-Device (D2D) systems, Machine-to-Machine (M2M) systems, Internet of Things (IoT) systems, Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) systems, systems utilizing other communication methods, and next-generation systems built upon them, etc. Furthermore, multiple systems can be combined (e.g., a combination of LTE or LTE-A with 5G).

[0184] With the continuous development of artificial intelligence (AI) technology, AI-based solutions have been widely applied in the field of wireless communication technology. AI- or machine learning-based positioning is an important application case of AI technology in the communications field.

[0185] In some embodiments, for AI-based positioning, there may be multiple AI models, each applied to different positioning application scenarios. That is, different datasets are used to train the AI ​​models for different positioning application scenarios, resulting in different AI models for each scenario. The AI ​​models used for positioning can be deployed on UE, gNB, and LMF.

[0186] In some embodiments, localization using AI / ML models primarily considers two specific implementation methods: direct localization based on the AI / ML model and indirect localization assisted by the AI / ML model. As shown in Figures 1B and 1C, Figure 1B is a schematic diagram illustrating a direct localization method based on an AI model according to an exemplary embodiment. Figure 1C is a schematic diagram illustrating an indirect localization method assisted by an AI model according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0187] For example, direct localization based on AI / ML models means that the output of the AI / ML model is the localization result (e.g., the UE's position coordinates). Indirect localization assisted by AI / ML models means that the output of the AI / ML model is new measurement parameters and / or parameters that enhance existing measurement parameters (e.g., identification results of the visible environment (LOS) and the non-visual environment (NLOS), measurement time and / or angle, and the likelihood of the measurement values).

[0188] In some embodiments, the localization application scenarios of AI models may include the following:

[0189] Scenario 1: UE positioning based on AI models deployed on the UE side; that is, Scenario 1 belongs to direct positioning based on AI models.

[0190] Scenario 2a: UE-assisted / LMF localization based on AI models deployed on the UE side; that is, scenario 2a belongs to AI model-based assisted localization.

[0191] Scenario 2b: UE-assisted / LMF localization based on the AI ​​model deployed on the LMF side; that is, scenario 2b belongs to direct localization based on the AI ​​model.

[0192] Scenario 3a: Next Generation Radio Access Network (NG-RAN) node-assisted positioning based on AI models deployed on the base station side; that is, Scenario 3a belongs to AI model-based assisted positioning.

[0193] Scenario 3b: NG-RAN node-assisted localization based on AI models deployed on the LMF side; that is, scenario 3b belongs to direct localization based on AI models.

[0194] In some embodiments, for the above-described positioning application scenarios, it is necessary to collect training data for AI / ML models. The collected training data samples may include at least one of the following:

[0195] Part A: Channel measurement data, quality indicators of channel measurement data, and timestamps of channel measurement data.

[0196] Part B: Ground condition labels (or approximations), quality metrics for ground condition labels, and timestamps for ground condition labels.

[0197] In some embodiments, for scenarios 2a and 2b, the training data for the AI / ML model, namely channel measurement data and related data (e.g., timestamps), is generated by the PRU and / or the UE without the PRU.

[0198] For scenario 1, the training data for the AI / ML model, namely ground reality labels and related data (such as timestamps), is generated by PRU, non-PRU UEs with estimated locations, and LMF.

[0199] For scenario 2a, the training data for the AI / ML model, namely ground reality labels and related data (such as timestamps), is generated by PRU, non-PRU UEs with estimated locations, and LMF.

[0200] For scenario 2b, the training data for the AI / ML model, namely ground reality labels and related data (such as timestamps), is generated by PRUs, non-PRU UEs with estimated locations, and LMFs.

[0201] Figure 2A is one of the interactive schematic diagrams of an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in Figure 2A, this disclosure embodiment relates to an authorization method for a communication system 100, the method comprising:

[0202] Step S2101: The first device sends the first information to the second device.

[0203] In some embodiments, the second device receives the first information sent by the first device.

[0204] In some embodiments, the first device includes a positioning reference unit (PRU) and / or a user equipment (UE).

[0205] It should be noted that, for ease of distinction, the UE can be the first UE. However, for the PRU, the PRU can be the second UE, meaning the first UE and the second UE are different devices. Alternatively, the PRU can also be an access network function.

[0206] It is worth noting that for PRUs, it is sufficient that the PRU's own location is known and that it can support some positioning-related measurements.

[0207] In some embodiments, the second device is a core network device or a core network function.

[0208] In some embodiments, the second device is a core network node for positioning, a positioning server, or a network node for positioning.

[0209] In some embodiments, the second device includes at least one of the following: a location management function (LMF); and an access and mobility management function (AMF).

[0210] It should be noted that LMF is a core network function in the 5G Core Network (5GC) that provides control plane positioning. It performs the calculation and feedback of location information in the 5G network, and provides functions such as positioning process management, UE capability acquisition, auxiliary data provision, and UE location estimation. In other words, LMF is responsible for supporting different types of location services related to the UE.

[0211] AMF is also a core network function in 5GC, responsible for UE authentication, authorization, registration, mobility management, and connection management. Furthermore, AMF can receive UE-related location service requests from third-party devices or functions such as the 5GC Location Services (LCS) entity, or AMF itself can initiate location services on behalf of a specific UE and forward location service requests to LMF. Upon receiving location information from the UE, AMF returns the relevant location information to the 5GC LCS entity or other third-party devices or functions.

[0212] In some embodiments, the first information is used to indicate whether the first device authorizes the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0213] It should be noted that the positioning measurement data of the first device can be used to determine the location of the first device. As an example, the positioning measurement data can be the channel impulse response (CIR) or power delay profile (PDP) obtained by the first device measuring the positioning reference signal.

[0214] In some embodiments, the positioning measurement data includes the location information of a first device, such as the location information of a UE or a PRU.

[0215] Since the location measurement data is associated with the location of the first device, or the location measurement data is the location of the UE, in order to protect the user's security and privacy, the first device can authorize the second device to collect location measurement data, and inform the second device of the authorization through the first information, so that the second device will only collect the location measurement data of the first device with the permission of the first device.

[0216] In some embodiments, the first device sends first information to the second device, including at least one of the following:

[0217] During the process of the terminal terminating the MT-LR location request, the first information is sent to the second device;

[0218] During the process of the terminal triggering the location request MO-LR, the first information is sent to the second device;

[0219] Send a Long Term Evolution (LPP) positioning protocol message to the second device. The LPP message carries the first information.

[0220] If the first device is a PRU, the first information is sent to the second device during the PRU association process.

[0221] In the MO-LR scenario where the location request is triggered by the terminal, the location service originates from the UE itself, and the UE can request to locate itself. As an example, the UE sends a location service request to the AMF (Area Function Manager). After receiving the location service request, the AMF sends a location service request to the LMF (Local Management Function Manager). Upon receiving the location service request, the LMF initiates and executes a location measurement process; it obtains location measurement information through the process, calculates the UE's location based on the location measurement information, and sends the UE's location information to the AMF, which then sends it to the UE.

[0222] In some embodiments, sending first information to the second device during the terminal triggering a location request (MO-LR) includes:

[0223] Send an MO-LR location request message to the second device. The MO-LR location request message includes the first information.

[0224] It is worth noting that the second device in this embodiment of the disclosure can be an AMF. During the MO-LR process, the MO-LR location request message is sent by the UE to the AMF.

[0225] During the MO-LR process, the first device can reuse the MO-LR positioning request message to send first information to the second device. This allows the first device to indicate the authorization status of the first device for collecting positioning measurement data while reducing information overhead.

[0226] In the MT-LR scenario where the terminal terminates its location request, the location service originates from the location service entity in the core network. The location service entity can specify a particular UE for location tracking. As an example, the location service entity can send a location service request to the AMF (Area Function Manager). Upon receiving the location service request, the AMF then sends a location service request to the LMF (Local Management Function Manager). Upon receiving the location service request, the LMF initiates and executes a location measurement procedure, obtains location measurement information, calculates the UE's location based on the location measurement information, and sends the UE's location information to the AMF, which then forwards it to the location service entity.

[0227] In some embodiments, sending first information to the second device during the terminal's termination of the MT-LR location request includes:

[0228] Send a non-access stratum NAS message to the second device. The NAS message includes the first information.

[0229] It is worth noting that the second device in this embodiment of the disclosure can be an AMF (Active Mobile Frame). The Non-Access Stratum (NAS) is mainly used for connection and mobility control between the UE and the AMF; the UE and the AMF can interact through NAS messages.

[0230] During MT-LR, the UE and AMF can interact via NAS messages. Therefore, during MT-LR, the first device can reuse NAS messages to send first information to the second device, thereby both indicating the authorization status of the first device for collecting positioning measurement data and reducing information overhead.

[0231] In some embodiments, during the MT-LR process, the UE sends the first information via a NAS location notification return result message.

[0232] In PRU association scenarios, when the primary device is the PRU, it is typically necessary to associate the PRU with the LMF (Local Management Provider) in order to locate a third device (i.e., other devices) using the PRU. As an example, during the PRU association process, the PRU sends a request message to the AMF (Automatic Management Provider), which verifies the PRU. After successful verification, the AMF sends a request message to the LMF.

[0233] In some embodiments, sending first information to the second device during the PRU association process includes:

[0234] A request message is sent to the second device. The request message is used to request the PRU to associate with the LMF. The associated PRU is used to locate the third device. The request message includes the first information.

[0235] It is worth noting that the second device in this embodiment can be an AMF. During the PRU association process, the request message is sent by the PRU to the AMF. Therefore, during the PRU association process, the PRU can reuse the request message to send first information to the second device, thereby both using the first information to indicate the authorization status of the first device for collecting positioning measurement data and reducing information overhead.

[0236] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0237] If the second device is an AMF, the AMF sends the first message to the LMF.

[0238] It should be noted that during the MO-LR process, MT-LR process, and PRU association process, the first device sends the first information to the AMF, and then the AMF forwards the first information to the LMF so that the LMF can know the authorization status of the first device's collection of positioning measurement data.

[0239] In some embodiments, sending a Long Term Evolution (LPP) positioning protocol message to a second device includes:

[0240] If the second device is an LMF, the first device sends an LPP message to the LMF.

[0241] It should be noted that when the second device is an LMF, i.e., the first device directly sends the first information to the LMF, the first device can carry the first information in an LPP message. By sending the LPP message to the LMF, the first information is sent to the LMF, thereby enabling the LMF to know the authorization status of the first device for collecting positioning measurement data.

[0242] As an example, the UE sends an LPP message containing initial information to the LMF.

[0243] In some embodiments, the LPP message includes LPP Provide Location Information.

[0244] Step S2102: The second device determines whether the first device authorizes the second device to collect positioning measurement data.

[0245] In some embodiments, the second device determines whether the first device authorizes the second device to collect positioning measurement data based on the first information.

[0246] Understandably, the first information is used to indicate whether the first device authorizes the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0247] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following:

[0248] Authorization instructions are used to indicate whether or not a second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data;

[0249] Authorization type information, used to indicate the number of times the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data from the first device;

[0250] Time information is used to indicate the time range within which a second device is allowed or denied to collect positioning measurement data from a first device.

[0251] It should be noted that the authorization indication information may include one or more indication bits. By using different bit values ​​of the indication bits, the first device may indicate whether to allow or deny the second device from collecting the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0252] In some embodiments, when the authorization indication information has a first value, it instructs the first device to allow the second device to collect positioning measurement data;

[0253] When the authorization instruction information has a second value, it instructs the second device to refuse the collection of positioning measurement data.

[0254] Here, the first value and the second value can be different bit values ​​of the indicator bit. The specific values ​​of the first value and the second value can be set according to actual needs, and this embodiment does not limit this. In some embodiments, the first value can be 1 and the second value can be 0.

[0255] If the first information includes authorization type information, the second device can know the number of times the first device has allowed the second device to collect the location measurement data of the first device. It is understood that if the cumulative number of times the second device collects the location measurement data of the first device is less than or equal to the number indicated by the authorization type information, the second device determines that the first device allows the second device to collect the location measurement data. If the cumulative number of times the second device collects the location measurement data of the first device is greater than the number indicated by the authorization type information, the second device determines that the first device refuses the second device to collect the location measurement data.

[0256] In some embodiments, the authorization type information is also used to indicate the authorization type, which includes at least one of the following:

[0257] In the first type, where the authorization type is type one and the authorization instruction information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data multiple times.

[0258] In the second type, where the authorization type is type two and the authorization instruction information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data once.

[0259] It should be noted that when the authorization type is Type 1 and the authorization instruction information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data multiple times. This can be understood as the first device allowing the second device to collect positioning measurement data once and then continue to collect positioning measurement data multiple times.

[0260] When the authorization type is type one, the permissions granted by the first device to the second device are bound to the second device. After the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data in a given instance, the second device can collect the positioning measurement data of the first device multiple times in subsequent processing, and the second device does not need to obtain authorization from the first device again for collecting positioning measurement data multiple times in subsequent processing.

[0261] When the authorization type is type 2 and the authorization instruction information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data once, which can be understood as the first device allowing the second device to collect positioning measurement data once; however, the second device needs to obtain authorization from the first device again for each subsequent collection of positioning measurement data.

[0262] In the case of authorization type two, the permissions granted by the first device to the second device can dynamically change based on time and location, and are one-time authorizations. After the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data for a given time, the second device needs to obtain authorization from the first device again when collecting positioning measurement data from the first device in subsequent processing. That is, in the case of authorization type two, the first device needs to grant separate authorization to the second device for each instance of collecting positioning measurement data.

[0263] In some embodiments, the first type can be static licensing; the second type can be dynamic licensing.

[0264] If the first information includes time information, the second device can determine the time range within which the first device allows or denies the second device from collecting positioning measurement information based on the time information.

[0265] It should be noted that the time information indicates the time range within which the second device is allowed to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device. This can be understood as the first device allowing the second device to collect positioning measurement data within the time range indicated by the time information; and the first device refusing the second device to collect positioning measurement data outside the time range indicated by the time information.

[0266] Alternatively, it can be understood that within the time information indication range, the second device does not need the first device to re-authorize when collecting the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0267] Similarly, the time information indicating the time range during which the second device is denied from collecting the positioning measurement data of the first device can be understood as the first device refusing the second device from collecting positioning measurement data within the time range indicated by the time information; or it can be understood as the second device not being able to send an authorization request to the first device within the time range indicated by the time information.

[0268] In some embodiments, outside the time range indicated by the time information, the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data.

[0269] In some embodiments, outside the time range indicated by the time information, the second device may send an authorization request to the first device.

[0270] In some embodiments, the time range indicated by the time information includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following:

[0271] The first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data within a first time window;

[0272] The first device rejects the second device's second time window for collecting positioning measurement data.

[0273] Understandably, the second device can determine whether the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data based on whether the current time is within the first time window; or, the second device can determine whether to refuse the second device from collecting positioning measurement data based on whether the current time is within the second time window.

[0274] Step S2103: The second device acquires the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0275] In some embodiments, when the first information instructs the first device to allow the second device to collect positioning measurement data, the second device acquires the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0276] In some embodiments, when the first information indicates that the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data, and the second device has a need to acquire the positioning measurement data of the first device, the second device acquires the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0277] In some embodiments, if the first information indicates that the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data, and the second device does not have a need to acquire the positioning measurement data of the first device, the second device does not acquire the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0278] It should be noted that the acquisition request can be generated by the second device itself; for example, the acquisition request generated when the second device needs to locate the first device. Alternatively, the acquisition request can be generated by the second device upon receiving an instruction from a third device; for example, the third device can be a server training a positioning model, and the second device generates an acquisition request when the third device instructs the second device to acquire the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0279] In some embodiments, when the first information indicates that the second device is permitted to collect positioning measurement data, the trigger for the second device to acquire the positioning measurement data of the first device includes:

[0280] The first type of demand is related to the positioning of the first device;

[0281] The second type of demand is unrelated to the positioning of the first device.

[0282] It is worth noting that, when the first information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data, the second device acquires the positioning measurement data of the first device under the trigger of the first type of demand, and the acquired positioning measurement data of the first device is used to perform operations related to the positioning of the first device.

[0283] When the first information indicates that the second device is permitted to collect positioning measurement data, the second device acquires the positioning measurement data of the first device under the trigger of the second type of demand, and the acquired positioning measurement data of the first device is used to perform operations unrelated to the positioning of the first device.

[0284] In some embodiments, the first type of demand may be a demand generated when the second device initiates the location of the first device; and / or a demand generated by the second device during the location of the first device.

[0285] In some embodiments, the first type of requirement includes, but is not limited to, at least one of the following:

[0286] The location acquisition requirement for the first device;

[0287] The first device's navigation requirements.

[0288] It is understandable that, where the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data, the second device collects the positioning measurement data of the first device in order to determine the location of the first device based on the positioning measurement data, triggered by the first device's location acquisition and / or navigation needs.

[0289] In some embodiments, the second type of demand may be a demand from the second device for obtaining positioning measurement data obtained by the first device during historical positioning; and / or a demand from the second device for obtaining positioning measurement data obtained by the first device during future positioning.

[0290] It is understood that the positioning measurement data obtained based on the second type of requirement is not used for positioning the first device, but rather as training data and / or test data for the positioning model. In some embodiments, the second type of requirement includes at least one of the following:

[0291] Training requirements for the localization model;

[0292] Testing requirements for the positioning model.

[0293] Understandably, when the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data, the second device acquires the positioning measurement data of the first device and uses the acquired positioning measurement data as training data and / or testing data, triggered by the training and / or testing needs of the positioning model.

[0294] In some embodiments, the positioning measurement data is used by the second device to perform at least one of the following:

[0295] Training and / or maintenance of the localization model;

[0296] The positioning measurement data is sent to a third device; wherein the positioning measurement data is used by the third device to train and / or maintain the positioning model.

[0297] Understandably, when the positioning model is deployed on a second device, the positioning measurement data acquired by the second device can be used by the second device to perform operations related to the positioning model, such as model training, model updates, and performance monitoring.

[0298] When the positioning model is deployed on a third device, after the second device obtains the positioning measurement data from the first device, it sends the positioning measurement data to the third device so that the third device can use the positioning measurement data obtained by the second device to perform operations related to the positioning model, such as model training, model updating, and performance monitoring.

[0299] In some embodiments, the localization model can be an AI model or an ML model.

[0300] In some embodiments, the third device may be a UE, a base station, and / or other core network functions.

[0301] In some embodiments, if the first information indicates that the first device refuses the second device from collecting location measurement data, the second device stops collecting location measurement data from the first device.

[0302] In some embodiments, if the first information indicates that the second device is denied from collecting location measurement data, and the second device has a need to acquire location measurement data, the second device sends a third information to the first device; the third information is used to request the first device to provide a reason for denying authorization.

[0303] Understandably, if the first device refuses the second device's request to collect positioning measurement data, but the second device has a need to acquire it, the second device may send a third message to the first device to request the second device to inform it of the reason for refusing authorization, so that the second device can determine whether to stop collecting positioning measurement data based on the reason for refusing authorization.

[0304] As an example, if the reason for denying authorization is that the current time is outside the time range within which the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data, the second device may delay collecting positioning measurement data until it is within the time range within which the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data.

[0305] As another example, if the reason for denying authorization is that the second device is not an authorized device specified by the first device, the first device may send a fourth message to the authorized third device, which is used to request the third device to obtain the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0306] In some embodiments, the term "information" may be used interchangeably with terms such as "message," "signal," "signaling," "report," "configuration," "indication," "instruction," "command," "channel," "parameter," "field," and "data."

[0307] In some embodiments, the term "send" may be used interchangeably with terms such as "transmit," "report," or "transmit."

[0308] The authorized method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S2101 to S2103. For example, step S2101 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, and steps S2101 and S2102 may be implemented as standalone embodiments, but are not limited thereto.

[0309] In some embodiments, steps S2102 and S2103 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. It is understood that if the second device does not need to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device, the second device may not need to parse the first information.

[0310] In some embodiments, step S2103 is optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. It is understood that if the first information indicates a refusal to allow the second device to collect positioning measurement data, the second device will not collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0311] Figure 2B is a second interactive schematic diagram illustrating an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in Figure 2B, this disclosure embodiment relates to an authorization method for a communication system 100, the method comprising:

[0312] Step S2201: The second device sends the second information to the first device.

[0313] In some embodiments, the first device receives second information sent by the second device.

[0314] In some embodiments, the first device includes a positioning reference unit (PRU) and / or a user equipment (UE).

[0315] It should be noted that, for ease of distinction, the UE can be the first UE. However, for the PRU, the PRU can be the second UE, meaning the first UE and the second UE are different devices. Alternatively, the PRU can also be an access network function.

[0316] It is worth noting that for PRUs, it is sufficient that the PRU's own location is known and that it can support some positioning-related measurements.

[0317] In some embodiments, the second device is a core network device or a core network function.

[0318] In some embodiments, the second device includes at least one of the following: a location management function (LMF); and an access and mobility management function (AMF).

[0319] It should be noted that LMF is a core network function in the 5G Core Network (5GC) that provides control plane positioning. It performs the calculation and feedback of location information in the 5G network, and provides functions such as positioning process management, UE capability acquisition, auxiliary data provision, and UE location estimation. In other words, LMF is responsible for supporting different types of location services related to the UE.

[0320] AMF is also a core network function in 5GC, responsible for UE authentication, authorization, registration, mobility management, and connection management. Furthermore, AMF can receive UE-related location service requests from third-party devices or functions such as the 5GC Location Services (LCS) entity, or AMF itself can initiate location services on behalf of a specific UE and forward location service requests to LMF. Upon receiving location information from the UE, AMF returns the relevant location information to the 5GC LCS entity or other third-party devices or functions.

[0321] In some embodiments, the second information is used to request the first information.

[0322] In some embodiments, the second information is used to request the first device to authorize the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0323] It is understandable that the second piece of information could be authorization request information, and the first piece of information could be authorization confirmation information.

[0324] In some embodiments, the second device sends second information to the first device, including at least one of the following:

[0325] If the second device is an AMF, a NAS message is sent to the first device, and the NAS message includes the second information;

[0326] If the second device is an LMF, an LPP message is sent to the first device, and the LPP message includes the second information.

[0327] It should be noted that the Non-Access Stratum (NAS) is mainly used for connection and mobility control between the UE and AMF; the UE and AMF can interact through NAS messages.

[0328] When the second device is an AMF, the second device can reuse NAS messages to send second information to the first device, thereby both requesting the first device to authorize the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device and reducing information overhead.

[0329] As an example, the AMF sends a NAS Location Notification Invoke Request message to the UE containing secondary information.

[0330] When the second device is an LMF, the second device can reuse LPP messages to send second information to the first device, thereby both requesting the first device to authorize the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device and reducing information overhead.

[0331] As an example, the LMF sends an LPP Request Capabilities message to the UE containing secondary information.

[0332] In some embodiments, the second information includes at least one of the following:

[0333] An indicator used to request authorization for a second device to collect positioning measurement data from a first device;

[0334] The fifth piece of information is used to indicate the device identifier of the second device;

[0335] The sixth piece of information is used to indicate the time range within which the second device expects to collect positioning measurement data;

[0336] The seventh piece of information is used to indicate the type of authorization that the second device expects to be granted;

[0337] The eighth piece of information is used to indicate the data requirements for the positioning measurement data that the second device expects to collect.

[0338] It should be noted that the first device can first parse the indicator of the second information to determine the information type of the second information.

[0339] As an example, if the first device refuses to allow all devices to collect positioning measurement data, after the first device determines that the second information is an authorization request information by parsing the indicator in the second information, it can send the first information to the second device to indicate that the authorization is denied, without having to continue parsing the other information content of the second information.

[0340] If the second information includes the fifth information, the first device can determine whether to authorize the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device based on the fifth information.

[0341] It should be noted that the first device can use the fifth piece of information to verify the authorization of the second device, thereby determining whether it is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device. As an example, the first device can use the fifth piece of information to determine whether the second device is a device designated and authorized by the first device.

[0342] In some embodiments, the sixth information is used to assist the first device in determining the time range within which the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data;

[0343] In some embodiments, the seventh information is used to assist the first device in determining the type of authorization granted to the second device.

[0344] It is worth noting that the time range within which the first device authorizes the second device to collect positioning measurement data can be the same as or different from the time range indicated by the sixth information; similarly, the authorization type of the first device authorizing the second device can be the same as or different from the authorization type indicated by the seventh information; this disclosure does not limit this.

[0345] In some embodiments, the data requirements for the desired collection of positioning measurement data include, but are not limited to:

[0346] Accuracy requirements are indicators used to specify the desired accuracy of the positioning measurement data to be collected.

[0347] Generation time indicator, used to indicate the generation time range of the expected location measurement data to be collected.

[0348] Step S2202: The first device sends the first information to the second device.

[0349] In some embodiments, the second device receives the first information sent by the first device.

[0350] In some embodiments, the first information is used to indicate whether the first device authorizes the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0351] It should be noted that the positioning measurement data of the first device can be used to determine the location of the first device. As an example, the positioning measurement data can be the channel impulse response (CIR) or power delay profile (PDP) obtained by the first device measuring the positioning reference signal.

[0352] Since the location measurement data is associated with the location of the first device, in order to protect the user's safety and privacy, after receiving the second information, the first device can authorize the second device to collect the location measurement data, and inform the second device of the authorization through the first information, so that the second device will only collect the location measurement data of the first device with the permission of the first device.

[0353] In some embodiments, the first device sends first information to the second device, including at least one of the following:

[0354] During the Mobile Terminating Location Request (MT-LR) process, the first information is sent to the second device;

[0355] Send a Long Term Evolution (LPP) positioning protocol message to the second device. The LPP message carries the first information.

[0356] If the first device is a PRU, the first information is sent to the second device during the PRU association process.

[0357] It is worth noting that for the three authorization scenarios mentioned above, the first device can send the first information to the second device after receiving the second information sent by the second device; and / or, the first device can send the first information to the second device spontaneously, without the second device needing to send the second information. However, in the scenario where the first device performs authorization during the MO-LR process, since MO-LR is a UE-triggered positioning process, the first device spontaneously sends the first information to the second device during the MO-LR process.

[0358] In the MT-LR scenario where the terminal terminates its location request, the location service originates from the location service entity in the core network. The location service entity can specify a particular UE for location tracking. As an example, the location service entity can send a location service request to the AMF (Area Function Manager). Upon receiving the location service request, the AMF then sends a location service request to the LMF (Local Management Function Manager). Upon receiving the location service request, the LMF initiates and executes a location measurement procedure, obtains location measurement information, calculates the UE's location based on the location measurement information, and sends the UE's location information to the AMF, which then forwards it to the location service entity.

[0359] In some embodiments, sending first information to the second device during the terminal's termination of the MT-LR location request includes:

[0360] Send a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) message to the second device. The NAS message includes the first information.

[0361] It is worth noting that the second device in this embodiment of the disclosure can be an AMF (Active Mobile Frame). The Non-Access Stratum (NAS) is mainly used for connection and mobility control between the UE and the AMF; the UE and the AMF can interact through NAS messages.

[0362] During MT-LR, the UE and AMF can interact via NAS messages. Therefore, during MT-LR, the first device can reuse NAS messages to send first information to the second device, thereby both indicating the authorization status of the first device for collecting positioning measurement data and reducing information overhead.

[0363] As an example, when the UE receives a NAS location notification call request message containing second information from the AMF, the UE sends a NAS location notification return result message containing first information to the AMF.

[0364] In PRU association scenarios, when the primary device is the PRU, it is typically necessary to associate the PRU with the LMF (Local Management Provider) in order to locate a third device (i.e., other devices) using the PRU. As an example, during the PRU association process, the PRU sends a request message to the AMF (Automatic Management Provider), which verifies the PRU. After successful verification, the AMF sends a request message to the LMF.

[0365] In some embodiments, sending first information to the second device during the PRU association process includes:

[0366] A request message is sent to the second device. The request message is used to request the PRU to associate with the LMF. The associated PRU is used to locate the third device. The request message includes the first information.

[0367] It is worth noting that the second device in this embodiment can be an AMF. During the PRU association process, the request message is sent by the PRU to the AMF. Therefore, during the PRU association process, the PRU can reuse the request message to send first information to the second device, thereby both using the first information to indicate the authorization status of the first device for collecting positioning measurement data and reducing information overhead.

[0368] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0369] If the second device is an AMF, the AMF sends the first message to the LMF.

[0370] It should be noted that during the MT-LR process and the PRU association process, the first device sends the first information to the AMF, and then the AMF forwards the first information to the LMF so that the LMF can know the authorization status of the first device's collection of positioning measurement data.

[0371] In some embodiments, sending a Long Term Evolution (LPP) positioning protocol message to a second device includes:

[0372] If the second device is an LMF, the first device sends an LPP message to the LMF.

[0373] It should be noted that when the second device is an LMF, i.e., the first device directly sends the first information to the LMF, the first device can carry the first information in an LPP message. By sending the LPP message to the LMF, the first information is sent to the LMF, thereby enabling the LMF to know the authorization status of the first device for collecting positioning measurement data.

[0374] As an example, when the UE receives an LPP request capability message containing second information from the LMF, the UE sends an LPP capability response message containing first information to the LMF.

[0375] Step S2203: The second device determines whether the first device authorizes the second device to collect positioning measurement data.

[0376] In some embodiments, optional implementations of step S2203 can be found in optional implementations of step S2102 in FIG2A, and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0377] Step S2204: The second device acquires the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0378] In some embodiments, optional implementations of step S2204 can be found in optional implementations of step S2103 in FIG2A, and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0379] The authorized method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S2201 to S2204. For example, steps S2201 and S2202 may be implemented as independent embodiments, steps S2202 may be implemented as independent embodiments, steps S2201 to S2203 may be implemented as independent embodiments, and steps S2202 and S2203 may be implemented as independent embodiments, but are not limited thereto.

[0380] In some embodiments, steps S2203 and S2204 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. It is understood that if the second device does not need to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device, the second device may not need to parse the first information.

[0381] In some embodiments, steps S2201, S2203, and S2204 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. It is understood that the first device can spontaneously send the first information to the second device without needing to send the first information to the second device after receiving the second information sent by the second device.

[0382] In some embodiments, step S2204 is optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. It is understood that if the first information indicates a refusal to allow the second device to collect positioning measurement data, the second device will not collect positioning measurement data from the first device.

[0383] In some embodiments, steps S2201 and S2204 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. It is understood that if the first device can spontaneously send a first message to the second device, and the first message indicates a refusal to allow the second device to collect positioning measurement data, the second device will not collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0384] Figure 3A is a schematic flowchart illustrating an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in Figure 3A, this disclosure relates to an authorization method executed by a first device 101, the method comprising:

[0385] Step S3101: Send the first information to the second device.

[0386] In some embodiments, optional implementations of step S3101 can be found in optional implementations of step S2101 in FIG2A and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0387] Figure 3B is a second schematic flowchart illustrating an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in Figure 3B, this disclosure relates to an authorization method executed by a first device 101, the method comprising:

[0388] Step S3201: Receive the second information sent by the second device.

[0389] In some embodiments, optional implementations of step S3201 can be found in optional implementations of step S2201 in FIG2B and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0390] Step S3202: Send the first information to the second device.

[0391] In some embodiments, optional implementations of step S3202 can be found in optional implementations of step S2202 in FIG2B and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0392] The authorized method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S3201 to S3202. For example, step S3202 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, but is not limited thereto.

[0393] In some embodiments, step S3201 is optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. It is understood that the first device can spontaneously send the first information to the second device without needing to send the first information to the second device after receiving the second information sent by the second device.

[0394] Figure 3C is a third schematic flowchart illustrating an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in Figure 3C, this disclosure relates to an authorization method executed by a first device 101, the method comprising:

[0395] Step S3301: Send the first information to the second device.

[0396] In some embodiments, the first information is used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0397] In some embodiments, the first device includes a positioning reference unit (PRU) and / or a user equipment (UE).

[0398] In some embodiments, the second device includes at least one of the following:

[0399] Location Management Function (LMF);

[0400] Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF).

[0401] In some embodiments, sending the first information to the second device includes at least one of the following:

[0402] During the process of the terminal terminating the MT-LR location request, the first information is sent to the second device;

[0403] During the process of the terminal triggering the location request MO-LR, the first information is sent to the second device;

[0404] Send a Long Term Evolution (LPP) positioning protocol message to the second device. The LPP message carries the first information.

[0405] If the first device is a PRU, the first information is sent to the second device during the PRU association process.

[0406] In some embodiments, sending first information to the second device during the terminal triggering a location request (MO-LR) includes:

[0407] Send an MO-LR location request message to the second device. The MO-LR location request message includes the first information.

[0408] In some embodiments, sending first information to the second device during the terminal's termination of the MT-LR location request includes:

[0409] Send a non-access stratum NAS message to the second device. The NAS message includes the first information.

[0410] In some embodiments, sending first information to the second device during the PRU association process includes:

[0411] A request message is sent to the second device. The request message is used to request the PRU to associate with the LMF. The associated PRU is used to locate the third device. The request message includes the first information.

[0412] In some embodiments, the LPP message includes location information provided by the LPP.

[0413] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0414] Receive the second information sent by the second device, the second information being used to request the first information.

[0415] In some embodiments, receiving second information sent by the second device includes at least one of the following:

[0416] When the second device is an AMF, receive the NAS message sent by the second device, the NAS message including the second information;

[0417] In the case that the second device is an LMF, receive the LPP message sent by the second device, the LPP message including the second information.

[0418] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following:

[0419] Authorization instructions are used to indicate whether or not a second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data;

[0420] Authorization type information, used to indicate the number of times the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data from the first device;

[0421] Time information is used to indicate the time range within which a second device is allowed or denied to collect positioning measurement data from a first device.

[0422] In some embodiments, the authorization type information is also used to indicate the authorization type, which includes at least one of the following:

[0423] In the first type, where the authorization type is type one and the authorization instruction information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data multiple times.

[0424] In the second type, where the authorization type is type two and the authorization instruction information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data once.

[0425] Figure 4A is a schematic flowchart illustrating an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in Figure 4A, this disclosure relates to an authorization method executed by a second device 102, the method comprising:

[0426] Step S4101: Receive the first information sent by the first device.

[0427] In some embodiments, optional implementations of step S4101 can be found in optional implementations of step S2101 in FIG2A and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0428] Step S4102: Determine whether the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data.

[0429] In some embodiments, optional implementations of step S4102 can be found in optional implementations of step S2102 in FIG2A and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0430] Step S4103: Obtain the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0431] In some embodiments, optional implementations of step S4103 can be found in optional implementations of step S2103 in FIG2A and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0432] The authorized method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S4101 to S4103. For example, step S4101 may be implemented as a standalone embodiment, and steps S4101 and S4102 may be implemented as standalone embodiments, but are not limited thereto.

[0433] In some embodiments, steps S4102 and S4103 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. It is understood that if the second device does not need to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device, the second device may not need to parse the first information.

[0434] In some embodiments, step S4103 is optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. It is understood that if the first information indicates a refusal to allow the second device to collect positioning measurement data, the second device will not collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0435] Figure 4B is a fifth schematic flowchart illustrating an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in Figure 4B, this disclosure embodiment relates to an authorization method executed by a second device 102, the method comprising:

[0436] Step S4201: Send the second information to the first device.

[0437] In some embodiments, optional implementations of step S4201 can be found in optional implementations of step S2201 in FIG2B, and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0438] Step S4202: Receive the first information sent by the first device.

[0439] In some embodiments, optional implementations of step S4202 can be found in optional implementations of step S2202 in FIG2B and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG2B, which will not be repeated here.

[0440] Step S4203: Determine whether the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data.

[0441] In some embodiments, optional implementations of step S4203 can be found in optional implementations of step S2102 in FIG2A, and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0442] Step S4204: Obtain the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0443] In some embodiments, optional implementations of step S4204 can be found in optional implementations of step S2103 in FIG2A, and other related parts in the embodiments involved in FIG2A, which will not be repeated here.

[0444] The authorized method involved in the embodiments of this disclosure may include at least one of steps S4201 to S4204. For example, steps S4201 and S4202 may be implemented as independent embodiments, steps S4202 may be implemented as independent embodiments, steps S4201 to S4203 may be implemented as independent embodiments, and steps S4202 and S4203 may be implemented as independent embodiments, but are not limited thereto.

[0445] In some embodiments, steps S4203 and S4204 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. It is understood that if the second device does not need to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device, the second device may not need to parse the first information.

[0446] In some embodiments, steps S4201, S4203, and S4204 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. It is understood that the first device can spontaneously send the first information to the second device without needing to send the first information to the second device after receiving the second information sent by the second device.

[0447] In some embodiments, step S4204 is optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. It is understood that if the first information indicates a refusal to allow the second device to collect positioning measurement data, the second device will not collect positioning measurement data from the first device.

[0448] In some embodiments, steps S4201 and S4204 are optional, and one or more of these steps may be omitted or substituted in different embodiments. It is understood that if the first device can spontaneously send a first message to the second device, and the first message indicates a refusal to allow the second device to collect positioning measurement data, the second device will not collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0449] Figure 4C is a schematic flowchart of an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in Figure 4C, this disclosure relates to an authorization method executed by a second device 102, the method comprising:

[0450] Step S4301: Receive the first information sent by the first device.

[0451] In some embodiments, the first information is used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0452] In some embodiments, the positioning measurement data is used by the second device to perform at least one of the following:

[0453] Training and / or maintenance of the localization model;

[0454] The positioning measurement data is sent to a third device; wherein the positioning measurement data is used by the third device to train and / or maintain the positioning model.

[0455] In some embodiments, the first device includes a positioning reference unit (PRU) and / or a user equipment (UE).

[0456] In some embodiments, the second device includes at least one of the following:

[0457] Location Management Function (LMF);

[0458] Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF).

[0459] In some embodiments, when the first information indicates that the second device is permitted to collect positioning measurement data, the trigger for the second device to acquire the positioning measurement data of the first device includes:

[0460] The first type of demand is related to the positioning of the first device;

[0461] The second type of demand is unrelated to the positioning of the first device.

[0462] In some embodiments, the second type of requirement includes at least one of the following:

[0463] Training requirements for the localization model;

[0464] Testing requirements for the positioning model.

[0465] In some embodiments, receiving first information sent by the first device includes at least one of the following:

[0466] During the process of the terminal terminating the MT-LR location request, the first information sent by the first device is received;

[0467] During the process of the terminal triggering a location request MO-LR, the first information sent by the first device is received;

[0468] Receive a Long Term Evolution Positioning Protocol (LPP) message sent by the first device, the LPP message including the first information;

[0469] If the first device is a PRU, the first information sent by the PRU is received during the PRU association process.

[0470] In some embodiments, receiving first information sent by a first device during the terminal triggering a location request (MO-LR) includes:

[0471] Receive an MO-LR positioning request message sent by the first device. The MO-LR positioning request message includes the first information.

[0472] In some embodiments, receiving first information sent by the first device during the terminal's termination of the MT-LR location request includes:

[0473] Receive a non-access stratum NAS message sent by the first device. The NAS message includes the first information.

[0474] In some embodiments, receiving first information sent by the PRU during the PRU association process includes:

[0475] Receive a request message sent by the PRU. The request message is used to request the PRU to associate with the LMF. The associated PRU is used to locate the third device. The request message includes first information.

[0476] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0477] If the second device is AMF, send the first message to LMF.

[0478] In some embodiments, receiving a Long Term Evolution (LPP) message sent by a first device includes:

[0479] If the second device is an LMF, it receives LPP messages sent by the first device.

[0480] In some embodiments, the LPP message includes location information provided by the LPP.

[0481] In some embodiments, the method further includes:

[0482] Send a second message to the first device; the second message is used to request the first message.

[0483] In some embodiments, sending second information to the first device includes at least one of the following:

[0484] If the second device is an AMF, a NAS message is sent to the first device, and the NAS message includes the second information;

[0485] If the second device is an LMF, an LPP message is sent to the first device, and the LPP message includes the second information.

[0486] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following:

[0487] Authorization instructions are used to indicate whether or not a second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data;

[0488] Authorization type information, used to indicate the number of times the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data from the first device;

[0489] Time information is used to indicate the time range within which a second device is allowed or denied to collect positioning measurement data from a first device.

[0490] In some embodiments, the authorization type information is also used to indicate the authorization type, which includes at least one of the following:

[0491] In the first type, where the authorization type is type one and the authorization instruction information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data multiple times.

[0492] In the second type, where the authorization type is type two and the authorization instruction information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data once.

[0493] Figure 5 is a third interactive schematic diagram of an authorization method according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in Figure 5, this disclosure relates to an authorization method for a communication system 100, the method including one of the following steps:

[0494] Step S5101: The first device sends the first information to the second device.

[0495] In some embodiments, the first information is used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0496] In some embodiments, the above methods may include the methods of the above-described communication system side, first device side, second device side, etc., which will not be described again here.

[0497] In some location-based application scenarios, it is necessary to collect location measurement data from PRU and / or UE. However, this location measurement data is associated with the UE's location, which may affect the user's security and privacy.

[0498] In some embodiments, the collection of measurement data used for positioning (i.e., positioning measurement data) requires permission from the UE or PRU before it can be collected. Therefore, this disclosure proposes a method for UE or PRU to authorize the collection of positioning measurement data.

[0499] In some embodiments, the collection of positioning measurement data may be authorized in any of the following ways:

[0500] Licensing is performed during the MT-LR process;

[0501] Authorization is performed during the MO-LR process;

[0502] Authorization is performed via LPP messages;

[0503] Authorization is performed during the PRU association process.

[0504] In some embodiments, the collection of location measurement data refers to sending location measurement data related to the UE or PRU to a third-party device.

[0505] As an example, the network sends location measurement data to third-party devices, such as the LMF sending location measurement data to other UEs; or the LMF sending location measurement data to servers or application functions.

[0506] As an example, a UE or PRU may send location measurement data to a third-party device, such as another UE or PRU; or a server or network entity.

[0507] In some embodiments, when the UE or PRU allows the collection of location measurement data, the purpose of triggering the UE or PRU to obtain location measurement data may be for the purpose of collecting location measurement data, rather than for the purpose of the UE or PRU's location needs.

[0508] In some embodiments, the collected positioning measurement data can be used to define related AI models or functions, including part A and / or part B.

[0509] In some embodiments, authorization is performed during a network-triggered location process (i.e., MT-LR). This authorization can be performed within a NAS message.

[0510] For example, the network requests authorization from the UE in a NAS Location Notification Invoke Request message; the UE confirms the authorization in a NAS Location Notification Return Result message.

[0511] In some embodiments, authorization is performed during the UE-triggered location procedure (i.e., MO-LR). Specifically, the UE may perform authorization in the MO-LR location request message (i.e., the MO-LR request message).

[0512] In some embodiments, during the MO-LR and MT-LR processes, the UE sends the authorization information to the AMF; the AMF then sends the authorization information to the LMF.

[0513] In some embodiments, the UE and / or PRU authorize in an LPP message; as an example, the UE and / or PRU authorize in an LPP Provide Location Information message.

[0514] In some embodiments, during the authorization process via LPP messages, the UE and / or PRU send authorization information to the LMF.

[0515] In some embodiments, the PRU performs authorization during the PRU association process; as an example, the PRU sends authorization information in the request message.

[0516] In some embodiments, during the PRU association process, the PRU sends authorization information to the AMF; the AMF then sends the authorization information to the LMF.

[0517] In some embodiments, the UE or PRU authorizes the collection of positioning measurement data, including: allowing the collection of positioning measurement data; or, denying or disallowing the collection of positioning measurement data.

[0518] In some embodiments, the types of authorization granted by the UE or PRU for the collection of positioning measurement data include:

[0519] One-time authorization or static authorization means that after the UE or PRU authorizes the LMF to collect positioning measurement data once, the LMF can collect the positioning measurement data of the UE or PRU multiple times.

[0520] Each authorization or dynamic authorization means that the LMF needs authorization from the UE or PRU to collect positioning measurement data from the UE or PRU.

[0521] In some embodiments, the authorization information includes: time information; as an example, the time information may be time information that allows the LMF to collect positioning measurement data of the UE or PRU, or the time information may be time information that denies the LMF from collecting positioning measurement data of the UE or PRU.

[0522] This disclosure also provides apparatus for implementing any of the above methods. For example, an apparatus is provided that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by the terminal in any of the above methods. Alternatively, another apparatus is provided that includes units or modules for implementing the steps performed by a network device (e.g., an access network device, or a core network device) in any of the above methods.

[0523] It should be understood that the division of units or modules in the above device is only a logical functional division. In actual implementation, they can be fully or partially integrated into a single physical entity, or they can be physically separated. Furthermore, the units or modules in the device can be implemented by a processor calling software: for example, the device includes a processor connected to a memory containing instructions. The processor calls the instructions stored in the memory to implement any of the above methods or to implement the functions of the units or modules in the above device. The processor can be, for example, a general-purpose processor, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU) or a microprocessor, and the memory can be internal or external to the device. Alternatively, the units or modules in the device can be implemented in the form of hardware circuits. The functionality of some or all of the units or modules can be achieved through the design of these hardware circuits, which can be understood as one or more processors. For example, in one implementation, the hardware circuit is an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The functionality of some or all of the units or modules is achieved through the design of the logical relationships between the components within the circuit. In another implementation, the hardware circuit can be implemented using a programmable logic device (PLD). Taking a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) as an example, it can include a large number of logic gates. The connection relationships between the logic gates are configured through configuration files, thereby achieving the functionality of some or all of the units or modules. All units or modules of the above device can be implemented entirely through processor-called software, entirely through hardware circuits, or partially through processor-called software with the remaining parts implemented through hardware circuits.

[0524] In this embodiment, the processor is a circuit with signal processing capabilities. In one implementation, the processor can be a circuit with instruction read and execute capabilities, such as a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a graphics processing unit (GPU) (which can be understood as a type of microprocessor), or a digital signal processor (DSP). In another implementation, the processor can implement certain functions through the logical relationships of hardware circuits. The logical relationships of the aforementioned hardware circuits are fixed or reconfigurable. For example, the processor is a hardware circuit implemented using an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable logic device (PLD), such as an FPGA. In a reconfigurable hardware circuit, the process of the processor loading a configuration document and configuring the hardware circuit can be understood as the process of the processor loading instructions to implement the functions of some or all of the above units or modules. In addition, it can also be a hardware circuit designed for artificial intelligence, which can be understood as an ASIC, such as a Neural Network Processing Unit (NPU), a Tensor Processing Unit (TPU), a Deep Learning Processing Unit (DPU), etc.

[0525] Figure 6A is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a first device according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in Figure 6A, the first device includes:

[0526] The sending module 6101 is configured to send first information to the second device; the first information is used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0527] In some embodiments, the sending module can be used by the first device to perform information sending-related steps in any authorization method.

[0528] In some embodiments, the first device may further include a receiving module and a processing module.

[0529] In some embodiments, the receiving module may correspond to the network interface and / or transceiver antenna of the first device.

[0530] In some embodiments, the receiving module can be used by the first device to perform information receiving-related steps in any of the authorization methods.

[0531] In some embodiments, the processing module can be used by the first device to perform information processing-related steps in any of the authorization methods.

[0532] In some embodiments, the first device includes a positioning reference unit (PRU) and / or a user equipment (UE).

[0533] In some embodiments, the second device includes at least one of the following:

[0534] Location Management Function (LMF);

[0535] Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF).

[0536] In some embodiments, the sending module is configured to perform at least one of the following:

[0537] During the process of the terminal terminating the MT-LR location request, the first information is sent to the second device;

[0538] During the process of the terminal triggering the location request MO-LR, the first information is sent to the second device;

[0539] Send a Long Term Evolution (LPP) positioning protocol message to the second device. The LPP message carries the first information.

[0540] If the first device is a PRU, the first information is sent to the second device during the PRU association process.

[0541] In some embodiments, the sending module is configured to send an MO-LR location request message to a second device, the MO-LR location request message including first information.

[0542] In some embodiments, the sending module is configured to send a Non-Access Stratum (NAS) message to a second device, the NAS message including first information.

[0543] In some embodiments, the sending module is configured to send a request message to the second device. The request message is used to request the PRU to associate with the LMF, and the associated PRU is used to locate the third device. The request message includes first information.

[0544] In some embodiments, the LPP message includes location information provided by the LPP.

[0545] In some embodiments, the receiving module is configured to receive second information sent by the second device, the second information being used to request the first information.

[0546] In some embodiments, the receiving module is configured to perform at least one of the following:

[0547] When the second device is an AMF, receive the NAS message sent by the second device, the NAS message including the second information;

[0548] In the case that the second device is an LMF, receive the LPP message sent by the second device, the LPP message including the second information.

[0549] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following:

[0550] Authorization instructions are used to indicate whether or not a second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data;

[0551] Authorization type information, used to indicate the number of times the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data from the first device;

[0552] Time information is used to indicate the time range within which a second device is allowed or denied to collect positioning measurement data from a first device.

[0553] In some embodiments, the authorization type information is also used to indicate the authorization type, which includes at least one of the following:

[0554] In the first type, where the authorization type is type one and the authorization instruction information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data multiple times.

[0555] In the second type, where the authorization type is type two and the authorization instruction information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data once.

[0556] Figure 6B is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a second device according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in Figure 6B, the second device includes:

[0557] The receiving module 6201 is configured to receive first information sent by the first device; the first information is used to indicate whether to authorize the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

[0558] In some embodiments, the receiving module may correspond to the network interface and / or transceiver antenna of the second device.

[0559] In some embodiments, the receiving module can be used by the second device to perform information receiving-related steps in any of the authorization methods.

[0560] In some embodiments, the second device may further include a transmitting module and a processing module.

[0561] In some embodiments, the sending module can be used by the second device to perform information sending-related steps in any authorization method.

[0562] In some embodiments, the processing module can be used by the second device to perform information processing-related steps in any of the authorization methods.

[0563] In some embodiments, the positioning measurement data is used by the second device to perform at least one of the following:

[0564] Training and / or maintenance of the localization model;

[0565] The positioning measurement data is sent to a third device; wherein the positioning measurement data is used by the third device to train and / or maintain the positioning model.

[0566] In some embodiments, the first device includes a positioning reference unit (PRU) and / or a user equipment (UE).

[0567] In some embodiments, the second device includes at least one of the following:

[0568] Location Management Function (LMF);

[0569] Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF).

[0570] In some embodiments, when the first information indicates that the second device is permitted to collect positioning measurement data, the trigger for the second device to acquire the positioning measurement data of the first device includes:

[0571] The first type of demand is related to the positioning of the first device;

[0572] The second type of demand is unrelated to the positioning of the first device.

[0573] In some embodiments, the second type of requirement includes at least one of the following:

[0574] Training requirements for the localization model;

[0575] Testing requirements for the positioning model.

[0576] In some embodiments, the receiving module is configured to be at least one of the following:

[0577] During the process of the terminal terminating the MT-LR location request, the first information sent by the first device is received;

[0578] During the process of the terminal triggering a location request MO-LR, the first information sent by the first device is received;

[0579] Receive a Long Term Evolution Positioning Protocol (LPP) message sent by the first device, the LPP message including the first information;

[0580] If the first device is a PRU, the first information sent by the PRU is received during the PRU association process.

[0581] In some embodiments, the receiving module is configured to receive an MO-LR location request message sent by a first device, the MO-LR location request message including first information.

[0582] In some embodiments, the receiving module is configured to receive a non-access stratum (NAS) message sent by a first device, the NAS message including first information.

[0583] In some embodiments, the receiving module is configured to receive a request message sent by the PRU, the request message being used to request the PRU to associate with the LMF, and the associated PRU being used to locate the third device; the request message includes first information.

[0584] In some embodiments, the sending module is configured to send first information to the LMF when the second device is an AMF.

[0585] In some embodiments, the receiving module is configured to receive LPP messages sent by the first device when the second device is an LMF.

[0586] In some embodiments, the LPP message includes location information provided by the LPP.

[0587] In some embodiments, the sending module is configured to send second information to the first device, the second information being used to request the first information.

[0588] In some embodiments, the sending module is configured to perform at least one of the following:

[0589] If the second device is an AMF, a NAS message is sent to the first device, and the NAS message includes the second information;

[0590] If the second device is an LMF, an LPP message is sent to the first device, and the LPP message includes the second information.

[0591] In some embodiments, the first information includes at least one of the following:

[0592] Authorization instructions are used to indicate whether or not a second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data;

[0593] Authorization type information, used to indicate the number of times the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data from the first device;

[0594] Time information is used to indicate the time range within which a second device is allowed or denied to collect positioning measurement data from a first device.

[0595] In some embodiments, the authorization type information is also used to indicate the authorization type, which includes at least one of the following:

[0596] In the first type, where the authorization type is type one and the authorization instruction information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data multiple times.

[0597] In the second type, where the authorization type is type two and the authorization instruction information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect positioning measurement data once.

[0598] Figure 7A is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a communication device 7100 according to an exemplary embodiment. The communication device 7100 can be a network device (e.g., an access network device or a core network device), a terminal (e.g., a user equipment), a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the network device in implementing any of the above methods, or a chip, chip system, or processor that supports the terminal in implementing any of the above-described authorized methods. The communication device 7100 can be used to implement the authorized methods described in the above method embodiments; for details, please refer to the descriptions in the above method embodiments.

[0599] As shown in Figure 7A, the communication device 7100 includes one or more processors 7101. The processor 7101 can be a general-purpose processor or a dedicated processor, such as a baseband processor or a central processing unit (CPU). The baseband processor can be used to process communication protocols and communication data, while the CPU can be used to control communication devices (e.g., base stations, baseband chips, terminal devices, terminal device chips, DUs or CUs, etc.), execute programs, and process program data. The processor 7101 is used to invoke instructions to cause the communication device 7100 to execute any of the above communication methods.

[0600] In some embodiments, the communication device 7100 further includes one or more memories 7102 for storing instructions. Optionally, all or part of the memories 7102 may also be located outside the communication device 7100.

[0601] In some embodiments, the communication device 7100 further includes one or more transceivers 7103. When the communication device 7100 includes one or more transceivers 7103, the communication steps such as sending and receiving in the above method are performed by the transceivers 7103, and other steps are performed by the processor 7101.

[0602] In some embodiments, a transceiver may include a receiver and a transmitter, which may be separate or integrated. Optionally, the terms transceiver, transceiver unit, transceiver, transceiver circuit, etc., may be used interchangeably; the terms transmitter, transmitting unit, transmitter, transmitting circuit, etc., may be used interchangeably; and the terms receiver, receiving unit, receiver, receiving circuit, etc., may be used interchangeably.

[0603] Optionally, the communication device 7100 further includes one or more interface circuits 7104, which are connected to the memory 7102. The interface circuits 7104 can be used to receive signals from the memory 7102 or other devices, and can be used to send signals to the memory 7102 or other devices. For example, the interface circuits 7104 can read instructions stored in the memory 7102 and send the instructions to the processor 7101.

[0604] The communication device 7100 described in the above embodiments may be a network device or a terminal, but the scope of the communication device 7100 described in this disclosure is not limited thereto, and the structure of the communication device 7100 may not be limited by FIG. 7A. The communication device may be a standalone device or a part of a larger device. For example, the communication device may be: (1) a standalone integrated circuit IC, or chip, or chip system or subsystem; (2) a collection of one or more ICs, optionally, the IC collection may also include storage components for storing data and programs; (3) an ASIC, such as a modem; (4) a module that can be embedded in other devices; (5) a receiver, terminal device, smart terminal device, cellular phone, wireless device, handheld device, mobile unit, vehicle device, network device, cloud device, artificial intelligence device, etc.; (6) others, etc.

[0605] Figure 7B is a schematic diagram of a chip structure according to an exemplary embodiment. For cases where the communication device 7100 can be a chip or a chip system, please refer to the schematic diagram of the chip 7200 shown in Figure 7B, but it is not limited thereto.

[0606] Chip 7200 includes one or more processors 7201, which are used to invoke instructions to cause chip 7200 to execute any of the above communication methods.

[0607] In some embodiments, chip 7200 further includes one or more interface circuits 7202 connected to memory 7203. Interface circuits 7202 can be used to receive signals from memory 7203 or other devices, and can also be used to send signals to memory 7203 or other devices. For example, interface circuit 7202 can read instructions stored in memory 7203 and send those instructions to processor 7201. Optionally, terms such as interface circuit, interface, transceiver pin, and transceiver can be used interchangeably.

[0608] In some embodiments, chip 7200 further includes one or more memories 7203 for storing instructions. Optionally, all or part of the memories 7203 may be located outside of chip 7200.

[0609] This disclosure also provides a storage medium storing instructions that, when executed on a communication device 7100, cause the communication device 7100 to perform any of the methods described above. Optionally, the storage medium is an electronic storage medium. Optionally, the storage medium is a computer-readable storage medium, but it can also be a storage medium readable by other devices. Optionally, the storage medium can be a non-transitory storage medium, but it can also be a temporary storage medium.

[0610] This disclosure also provides a program product, which, when executed by a communication device 7100, causes the communication device 7100 to perform any of the above communication methods. Optionally, the program product is a computer program product.

[0611] This disclosure also provides a computer program that, when run on a computer, causes the computer to perform any of the above communication methods.

[0612] Other embodiments of the invention will readily occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. This disclosure is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention that follow the general principles of the invention and include common knowledge or customary techniques in the art not disclosed herein. The specification and examples are to be considered exemplary only, and the true scope and spirit of the invention are indicated by the following claims.

[0613] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the precise structure described above and shown in the accompanying drawings, and various modifications and changes can be made without departing from its scope. The scope of the invention is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An authorization method, wherein, The method is performed by a first device, and the method includes: Send a first message to the second device; the first message is used to indicate whether to authorize the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein, The first device includes a positioning reference unit (PRU) and / or a user equipment (UE).

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein, The second device includes at least one of the following: Location Management Function (LMF); Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF).

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein, Sending the first information to the second device includes at least one of the following: During the process of the terminal terminating the MT-LR location request, the second device sends the first information; During the process of the terminal triggering the location request MO-LR, the first information is sent to the second device; Send a Long Term Evolution Positioning Protocol (LPP) message to the second device, the LPP message carrying the first information; If the first device is a PRU, the first information is sent to the second device during the PRU association process.

5. The method according to claim 4, wherein, The step of sending the first information to the second device during the initial location request (MO-LR) process of the terminal includes: Send an MO-LR location request message to the second device, the MO-LR location request message including the first information.

6. The method according to claim 4, wherein, Sending the first information to the second device during the process of terminating the MT-LR location request by the terminal includes: Send a non-access stratum (NAS) message to the second device, the NAS message including the first information.

7. The method according to claim 4, wherein, Sending the first information to the second device during the PRU association process includes: A request message is sent to the second device, the request message being used to request the PRU to associate with the LMF, and the associated PRU being used to locate the third device; the request message includes the first information.

8. The method according to claim 4, wherein, The LPP message includes location information provided by LPP.

9. The method according to any one of claims 6 to 8, wherein, The method further includes: The device receives a second message sent by the second device, the second message being used to request the first message.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The receipt of the second information sent by the second device includes at least one of the following: When the second device is an AMF, a NAS message sent by the second device is received, the NAS message including the second information; In the case that the second device is an LMF, an LPP message sent by the second device is received, the LPP message including the second information.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The first information includes at least one of the following: Authorization instruction information is used to indicate whether the second device is allowed or denied to collect the positioning measurement data; Authorization type information, used to indicate the number of times the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data of the first device; Time information is used to indicate the time range within which the second device is allowed or denied to collect positioning measurement data from the first device.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The authorization type information is also used to indicate the authorization type, which includes at least one of the following: In the first type, where the authorization type is the first type and the authorization indication information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect the positioning measurement data multiple times, the first device allows the second device to collect the positioning measurement data multiple times. In the second type, where the authorization type is the second type and the authorization indication information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect the positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect the positioning measurement data once.

13. An authorization method, wherein, The method is performed by a second device, and the method includes: Receive first information sent by the first device; the first information is used to indicate whether to authorize the second device to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The positioning measurement data is used by the second device to perform at least one of the following: Training and / or maintenance of the localization model; The positioning measurement data is sent to a third device; wherein the positioning measurement data is used by the third device to perform training and / or maintenance of the positioning model.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, wherein, The first device includes a positioning reference unit (PRU) and / or a user equipment (UE).

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein, The second device includes at least one of the following: Location Management Function (LMF); Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF).

17. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein, When the first information indicates that the second device is permitted to collect the positioning measurement data, the trigger for the second device to acquire the positioning measurement data of the first device includes: The first type of demand is related to the positioning of the first device; The second type of demand is unrelated to the positioning of the first device.

18. The method according to claim 17, wherein, The second type of demand includes at least one of the following: Training requirements for the localization model; Testing requirements for the positioning model.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein, The first information received from the first device includes at least one of the following: During the process of the terminal terminating the MT-LR location request, the first information sent by the first device is received; During the process of the terminal triggering a location request MO-LR, the first information sent by the first device is received; Receive a Long Term Evolution Positioning Protocol (LPP) message sent by the first device, wherein the LPP message includes the first information; If the first device is a PRU, the first information sent by the PRU is received during the PRU association process.

20. The method according to claim 19, wherein, The step of receiving the first information sent by the first device during the terminal triggering a location request (MO-LR) includes: The system receives an MO-LR location request message sent by the first device, the MO-LR location request message including the first information.

21. The method according to claim 19, wherein, The step of receiving the first information sent by the first device during the terminal's termination of the MT-LR location request includes: Receive a non-access stratum NAS message sent by the first device, the NAS message including the first information.

22. The method according to claim 19, wherein, The step of receiving the first information sent by the PRU during the PRU association process includes: The system receives a request message sent by the PRU, which requests the PRU to associate with the LMF. The associated PRU is then used to locate the third device. The request message includes the first information.

23. The method according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein, The method further includes: If the second device is an AMF, the first information is sent to an LMF.

24. The method according to claim 19, wherein, The step of receiving the Long Term Evolution (LPP) positioning protocol message sent by the first device includes: If the second device is an LMF, the LPP message sent by the first device is received.

25. The method according to claim 24, wherein, The LPP message includes location information provided by LPP.

26. The method according to any one of claims 21 to 25, wherein, The method further includes: Send a second message to the first device, the second message being used to request the first message.

27. The method according to claim 26, wherein, Sending the second information to the first device includes at least one of the following: If the second device is an AMF, a NAS message is sent to the first device, the NAS message including the second information; If the second device is an LMF, an LPP message is sent to the first device, the LPP message including the second information.

28. The method according to any one of claims 13 to 27, wherein, The first information includes at least one of the following: Authorization instruction information is used to indicate whether the second device is allowed or denied to collect the positioning measurement data; Authorization type information, used to indicate the number of times the second device is allowed to collect positioning measurement data of the first device; Time information is used to indicate the time range within which the second device is allowed or denied to collect positioning measurement data from the first device.

29. The method according to claim 28, wherein, The authorization type information is also used to indicate the authorization type, which includes at least one of the following: In the first type, where the authorization type is the first type and the authorization indication information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect the positioning measurement data multiple times, the first device allows the second device to collect the positioning measurement data multiple times. In the second type, where the authorization type is the second type and the authorization indication information indicates that the second device is allowed to collect the positioning measurement data, the first device allows the second device to collect the positioning measurement data once.

30. An authorization method, wherein, Performed by the communication system, including: The first device sends a first message to the second device; the first message is used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

31. A first device, wherein, include: The sending module is configured to send first information to the second device; The first information is used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

32. A second device, wherein, include: The receiving module is configured to receive the first information sent by the first device; The first information is used to indicate whether the second device is authorized to collect the positioning measurement data of the first device.

33. A communication system, wherein, The communication system includes a first device and a second device; the first device is configured to implement the authorization method of any one of claims 1 to 12, and the second device is configured to implement the authorization method of any one of claims 13 to 29.

34. A communication device, wherein, The communication device includes: One or more processors; The processor is configured to invoke instructions to cause the communication device to execute the authorized method according to any one of claims 1 to 12 or claims 13 to 29.

35. A storage medium, wherein, The storage medium stores instructions that, when executed on a communication device, cause the communication device to perform the authorized method according to any one of claims 1 to 12 or claims 13 to 29.

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