Measurement report for joint communication and sensing

Abstract

A sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126, 126A, 126B, 126C) multiplexed with communication signaling of a cellular network (100) is provided. A measurement report including measurement results of a sensing measurement employing the sensing signals (120, 126, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing a target object (114) is communicated from a radio node (106, 108) to a node (110) of the cellular network (100), e.g. a node (110) implementing a sensing management function. The measurement results comprise one or more observables. The one or more observables are associated with each scattering point of multiple scattering points (402-412) of the target object (114) sensed with the sensing signals.

Description

[0001] MEASUREMENT REPORT FOR JOINT COMMUNICATION AND SENSING

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] Various examples of the disclosure generally pertain to joint communication and sensing. Various examples specifically pertain to sensing measurements and measurement reports of the sensing measurements.

[0004] Background

[0005] Sensing has been identified as a potential new feature for the sixth generation (6G) of cellular mobile communications. It is designed to operate jointly with communication, and is therefore commonly referred to as Joint Communication and Sensing (JCAS) and Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC). JCAS is a framework in which communication and sensing operations are combined and optimized to share the same spectrum, hardware and signal processing capabilities, thereby increasing the efficiency and utility of 6G networks. Similarly, ISAC integrates sensing capabilities into communication systems, enabling the simultaneous transmission of communication and sensing signals, leading to new functionalities and use cases in 6G.

[0006] According to the International Telecommunication Union's (ITU) 6G vision described in IMT- 2030 (International Mobile Telecommunications), sensing has been listed as a new capability for 6G. The ITU's IMT-2030 vision outlines the framework and capabilities expected in 6G networks, focusing on advanced capabilities such as high-speed connectivity, low latency, and integrated sensing.

[0007] URLLC, eMBB, and mMTC are the known usage scenarios from the 5G timeframe. URLLC (Ultra-Reliable Low Latency Communications) is designed for applications that require extremely reliable and low-latency communications, such as autonomous driving and industrial automation. eMBB (Enhanced Mobile Broadband) targets high-data-rate services, including extended Reality (XR) applications, such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and cloud gaming (CG). mMTC (Massive Machine Type Communications) supports large-scale loT (Internet of Things) deployments with a large number of low-complexity devices.

[0008] For 6G, ISAC is listed as one of the new usage scenarios. The operation of ISAC is expected to enable new use cases / services based on the 6G system. These services include intelligent transportation, aviation, enterprise, smart city, smart home, factories, consumer applications, telepresence, and the public sector. For example, URLLC can benefit from ISAC / JCAS through enhanced situational awareness and real-time environmental sensing. For example, in autonomous driving, ISAC can provide critical sensing information about nearby objects and road conditions, improving safety and decision making. eMBB can leverage ISAC / JCAS to enhance user experiences in AR and VR by integrating real-world sensing data to provide more immersive and interactive environments. mMTC may benefit from ISAC / JCAS by enabling devices to not only communicate but also sense their environment. This can enhance applications in smart cities, smart homes, and industrial loT by providing real-time sensing data for better resource management and automation.

[0009] Incorporating sensing into a radio network infrastructure, such as a base station and user equipment (UE), can pose many new challenges, such as the transmission of reference signals for sensing purposes, sensing measurement, and coordination between nodes. The 3GPP specifications define three types of sensing operations. Mono-static sensing refers to an operation where the sensing transmitter and receiver are co-located, typically within the same device. Bi-static sensing is an operation where the sensing transmitter and receiver are in different locations, allowing for wider coverage and more flexible deployment scenarios. They can be the same or different types of devices. Multi-static sensing involves multiple transmitters and receivers distributed across a network, providing enhanced sensing accuracy and robustness. These operations may be implemented by UEs and / or base stations, e.g. gNBs. A gNB can contain one or more Transmission-Reception Points (TRPs). Based on these operations, six sensing modes or topologies have been considered, i.e. TRP-TRP bistatic, TRP mono-static, TRP-LIE bi-static, LIE-TRP bi-static, UE-llE bi-static, UE mono-static.

[0010] The following sensing entities are defined within the ISAC framework:

[0011] UE (User Equipment): Capable of acting as either a SeRS (Sensing Reference Signal) transmitter or receiver. The SeRS is a specially designed signal used for sensing purposes that is transmitted by either the gNB or the UE and is critical for accurate sensing measurements. gNB (base station): Acts as a sensing transmitter or receiver.

[0012] Sensing target: Refers to (passive) objects (e.g., vehicles, unmanned arial vehicles (UAVs), people, or more generally: target objects), typically without network connectivity, whose detection or characteristics are of interest to the network.

[0013] Environment object (EO): Refers to objects outside the network's scope of interest.

[0014] SeMF (Sensing Management Function): Provides support for sensing measurements, post-processing of sensing data, and efficient computation of sensing results (e.g., sensing estimation). SeMF can be deployed as a new node in the core network or as a new function residing in another core network node. It manages sensing tasks, processes sensing data, and derives insights from the collected sensing measurements, playing a central role in the ISAC framework.

[0015] These sensing entities operate within a network, enabling various sensing use cases, including object detection and identification. In a typical downlink (DL)-like bi-static sensing ISAC deployment, the gNB serves as the SeRS transmitter, broadcasting SeRS signals to its environment. These signals propagate through the air and divide into different rays. Each ray will bounce off different objects, either the target or the environment object. These interactions change the characteristics of the reflected rays.

[0016] In this deployment, the UE acts as a SeRS receiver, with the goal of capturing the reflected rays and estimating the sensing channel. Sensing channel estimation is the process of evaluating the changes in the characteristics of SeRS signals as they reflect off objects, which helps determine the presence, location, velocity, and other characteristics of the sensing target. This estimation allows the UE to derive sensing measurements associated with the target, which are then reported to SeMF for further processing. The SeMF is used to perform various sensing tasks such as object detection and localization using the received measurement report from UE. In other sensing modes / topologies, the measurement report may also come from the gNB.

[0017] The prior art techniques may face certain restrictions and drawbacks. For instance, it has been found that accurate object identification may be difficult based on such measurement report. Also estimating more detailed information such as the object’s type, shape and size may be difficult.

[0018] Summary

[0019] Accordingly, advanced techniques of joint communication and sensing are required.

[0020] This need is met by the features of the independent claims. The features of the dependent claims define embodiments.

[0021] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for use in a node of a cellular network. The method comprises providing a measurement report including measurement results of a sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a target object, wherein the sensing signals are multiplexed with communication signaling of the cellular network. The measurement report may be provided to another node of the cellular network, e.g. to a node in a core network of the cellular network. In other words, the sensing signals may be employed for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object. The target object may be a passive object, i.e. the target object does not actively receive, process or transmit the sensing signals, but merely reflects or scatters the sensing signals at its surface(s). The measurement results comprise one or more observables, which are associated with each scattering point of the multiple scattering points of the target object sensed with the sensing signals. The observables may include measured signal properties based on which object-related properties can be determined, such as described herein, e.g. a signal power or phase. The observables may include information derived from measured signal properties, such as described herein, e.g. a velocity based on Doppler shift, or a distance based on signal power.

[0022] The node may be a radio node of the cellular network, i.e. a node of the cellular network that communicates with other nodes using radio signals. The node may be a user equipment or base station. A measurement report including measurement results of a sensing measurement employing sensing signals may be generated by processing sensing signals that are transmitted from another node and reflected and / or scattered by the target object. Sensing signals multiplexed with communication signaling of the cellular network enable simultaneous transmission of sensing data and communication data over the same channel. Multiple scattering points of the target object may refer to different locations on the surface of the target object where the sensing signals are scattered.

[0023] Each of the one or more observables may be associated with a group of multiple sensing signals scattered from a specific one of the multiple scattering points of the target object. A scattered sensing signal may be assigned to a group of multiple sensing signals based on signal properties of the scattered sensing signal.

[0024] A group of multiple sensing signals may be understood as a collection of sensing signals that share common characteristics or properties, such as frequency, amplitude, or phase. This arrangement allows for efficient processing and analysis of the sensing signals, enabling better estimation of the target object's size and shape. Signal properties of the scattered sensing signal may include any attributes or features that describe the signal, such as its spectral content, temporal characteristics, or spatial distribution. By assigning a scattered sensing signal to a group based on these properties, the system can identify patterns and relationships between the signals, leading to improved accuracy and robustness in the sensing process. An effect of this arrangement may be that the system can effectively handle complex environments and objects with multiple scattering points, where the sensing signals are subject to various distortions and interferences. By grouping the sensing signals based on their properties, the system can better separate the desired signal components from noise and interference, resulting in more accurate and reliable sensing results.

[0025] For example, the one or more observables may include for each scattering point at least one of reference signal received power (RSRP), time of arrival (ToA), Doppler shift, angle of arrival (AoA), a Radar Cross Section (RCS) value, and angle of departure (AoD). These observables provide valuable information about the target object's size, shape, orientation, velocity, and position.

[0026] Reference signal received power may be understood as the amount of energy received from the scattered sensing signal, which can indicate the distance or reflectivity of the target object. Time of arrival refers to the time it takes for the scattered sensing signal to reach the receiver, providing information about the target object's range or distance. Doppler shift represents the change in frequency or phase of the scattered sensing signal due to the target object's motion, enabling estimation of its velocity. Angle of arrival and angle of departure provide information about the direction from which the scattered sensing signal is arriving and departing, respectively. Radar Cross Section (RCS) value represents the amount of energy reflected by the target object in a specific frequency band, providing insights into its size, shape, and material properties.

[0027] An effect of this arrangement may be that the system can accurately estimate various physical parameters of the target object, such as its size, shape, orientation, velocity, and position. By considering multiple observables for each scattering point, the system can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the target object's behavior and characteristics, leading to improved accuracy and robustness in sensing applications.

[0028] The measurement report may include for at least one of the multiple scattering points more observables than for another one of the multiple scattering points. This means that the amount and type of information provided about each scattering point can vary.

[0029] By including more observables for some scattering points than others, the measurement report can provide a more detailed and nuanced understanding of the target object's characteristics and behavior. This allows for a flexible and adaptable approach to sensing, where the amount and type of information collected about each scattering point can be tailored to specific needs or requirements.

[0030] An effect of this may be that the system can efficiently allocate resources and prioritize data collection based on the relative importance or interest of different scattering points. By focusing more attention and detail on certain areas of the target object, the system can provide a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of its characteristics In an example, the one or more observables may include, for each scattering point, an identifier of the scattering point.

[0031] The identifier may be a unique label or tag that identifies a specific scattering point and distinguishes it from others. By including an identifier for each scattering point, the observables can provide a clear and unambiguous association between the measured data and the specific location on the target object where the measurement was taken. This arrangement allows for precise tracking and mapping of the target object's characteristics and behavior over time and space.

[0032] In an example, the method may further include obtaining a request to trigger the sensing measurement.

[0033] Obtaining a request to trigger the sensing measurement may involve receiving a signal or message from a management function, such as a Sensing Management Function (SeMF). A request to trigger the sensing measurement may be understood as any signal or message that initiates the sensing process, for example an instruction or command to initiate the sensing process.

[0034] This may provide control of the sensing by the management function, allowing for coordinated and efficient use of resources. Thus, the management function can manage the sensing process, ensuring that it is performed when needed and with the required parameters. This enables optimized performance and minimizes unnecessary sensing operations.

[0035] In an example, the method may further include obtaining assistance information for the sensing measurement.

[0036] Obtaining assistance information for the sensing measurement may involve receiving data or parameters that aid in performing the sensing process. Assistance information may include additional data or knowledge that enhances the accuracy or efficiency of the sensing measurement.

[0037] This may enable more precise sensing, tailored to the target object or environment. An effect is that the method can adapt to specific conditions, taking into account factors such as the type of target object, its location, and the surrounding environment. This enables optimized performance and improved accuracy of the sensing results. By incorporating assistance information, the method can refine its parameters and adjust its operation to better suit the particular use case, leading to more reliable and effective sensing outcomes.

[0038] In an example, the method may further include providing a capability of a sensing receiver to perform the sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object.

[0039] Providing a capability of a sensing receiver to perform the sensing measurement may involve configuring or enabling the sensing receiver to process and analyze sensing signals. This enables a management function, such as a SeMF, to effectively utilize the available radio nodes in the system. An effect is that the method can optimize the use of system resources, leading to improved performance and efficiency. By providing a capability to sense multiple scattering points, the method allows the management function to gather more comprehensive data on the target object and its environment, enabling better decision-making and resource allocation. This, in turn, enables the system to adapt more effectively to changing conditions, leading to improved overall performance. Another effect is that the sensing receiver is requested to perform sensing measurements based on its capability. For example, the SeMF may not request the sensing receiver to perform sensing measurement with the number of scattering points exceeding the capability of the sensing receiver. This provides efficient network signaling and prevents any mismatch between the sensing receiver capability and the expected sensing measurement results.

[0040] In an example, the method may further include obtaining a distance between the target object and the sensing receiver. The node may be a radio node including a sensing receiver. Based on the distance between the target object and the sensing receiver, the method may perform the sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object or a further sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a single scattering point of the target object only.

[0041] Obtaining a distance between the target object and the sensing receiver may involve using various methods such as time-of-flight, angle-of-arrival, angle-of-departure, or received signal strength. The distance information may be obtained from the SeMF based on other / former measurements. The sensing receiver may be configured to process and analyze sensing signals transmitted towards the target object and scattered back to the sensing receiver. This arrangement enables the radio node to have better insights into the present situation. An effect is that the radio node may overrule instructions from the SeMF based on its own local knowledge and measurements. By performing different types of sensing measurements (e.g., single or multiple scattering point measurements) based on the distance between the target object and the sensing receiver, the radio node can adapt to changing conditions and provide more accurate and reliable data. This leads to improved overall system performance and decision-making.

[0042] In an example, the method may further include obtaining a test I intermediate measurement result determined based on a test sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object. The node may be a radio node. Based on the test measurement result, the method may perform the sensing measurement employing sensing multiple scattering points of the target object or employing sensing a single scattering point of the target object.

[0043] Obtaining a test measurement result may involve using various methods such as analyzing signal strength, signal-to-noise ratio, or other metrics. The test sensing measurement may be used to determine the feasibility of performing a specific type of sensing measurement. This may enable the radio node to have better insights into the present situation than a centralized management function, such as a SeMF. An effect is that the radio node may overrule instructions from the SeMF based on its own local knowledge and measurements. By adapting the sensing measurement based on the test measurement result, the radio node can optimize its performance and provide more accurate and reliable data.

[0044] In this arrangement, the radio node is able to make decisions autonomously, without relying solely on instructions from the SeMF. This allows for more efficient use of resources, as well as improved adaptability to changing conditions. The test measurement result may serve as a test mechanism, enabling the radio node to refine its performance and adjust its sensing measurements accordingly.

[0045] In an example, the method may further include obtaining a size estimation of the target object. The node may be a radio node. Based on the size of the target object, the method may perform the sensing measurement employing sensing of multiple scattering points of the target object or employing sensing of a single scattering point of the target object.

[0046] Obtaining a size of the target object may involve using various methods such as analyzing signal strength, received signal strength indicator (RSSI), or other metrics. The size of the target object may be used to determine the feasibility of performing a specific type of sensing measurement, i.e. sensing of multiple scattering points sensing of a single scattering point. Thus, the radio node is able to make decisions autonomously, without relying solely on instructions from the SeMF. The size of the target object serves as a critical piece of information that enables the radio node to adjust its sensing measurements accordingly. For example, if the target object is large, the radio node may perform a sensing measurement employing sensing multiple scattering points to obtain more comprehensive data. On the other hand, if the target object is small, the radio node may perform a sensing measurement employing sensing a single scattering point to conserve resources and reduce noise.

[0047] In an example, the method may further comprise providing a further measurement report including measurement results of the further sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a single scattering point of a target object. The measurement results may include one or more observables for a group of multiple sensing signals scattered from the single scattering point.

[0048] Providing the further single scattering point measurement report in this manner allows for an alternative approach to sensing, where instead of performing a sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points, a single scattering point measurement can be performed. This arrangement may be beneficial in certain situations, such as when conditions are poor or fast I simple sensing is required. Simple sensing can be the target object detection operation.

[0049] For example, the node may be a radio node including a sensing receiver configured to selectively perform the sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object or the further sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a single scattering point of the target object. Accordingly, the measurement report or the further measurement report is selectively provided based on the performed measurement.

[0050] This arrangement enables the system to adapt to different scenarios and provide more flexibility in terms of sensing strategies. An effect is that the system can perform faster and more efficient sensing, while still providing accurate and reliable data. By providing a further measurement report with measurement results for a single scattering point, transmission resources may be saved, e.g. in situations where conditions are not ideal.

[0051] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a method for use in a node of a cellular network. The node may be a Sensing Management Function in a core network of the cellular network and may execute a management function for managing a plurality of sensing measurements at multiple radio nodes. The method comprises obtaining a measurement report including measurement results of a sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a target object. The sensing signals are multiplexed with communication signaling of the cellular network. The measurement results comprise one or more observables, the one or more observables being associated with each scattering point of multiple scattering points of the target object sensed with the sensing signals.

[0052] An effect may be that by obtaining a measurement report that includes measurement results for multiple scattering points of a target object, it becomes possible to estimate the size and shape of the target object. This can be achieved by analyzing the one or more observables associated with each scattering point, which provides information about how the sensing signals interact with different parts of the target object.

[0053] In an example, the method may further include providing a request to trigger the sensing measurement. A request to trigger the sensing measurement may be understood as any signal or message that initiates the sensing process. This arrangement allows the management function, e.g., SeMF, to control when the sensing measurement is performed, enabling more precise sensing and better resource allocation.

[0054] According to various examples, the method may further include providing assistance information for the sensing measurement. Assistance information for the sensing measurement may be understood as any data or metadata that aids in the sensing process. This arrangement enables the sensing nodes to make more accurate measurements.

[0055] In an example, the method may further include obtaining a capability of a sensing receiver to perform the sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object.

[0056] For example, the capability of the sensing receiver may be indicative of a maximum number of scattering points of the target object that can be sensed. Generally, the capability of the sensing receiver may be indicative of whether the receiver is capable of performing multiple scattering point measurements. By obtaining the capability of the sensing receiver, the system can adapt to the node, changing conditions and maintain its performance level.

[0057] In general, the request to trigger the sensing measurement may comprise an indication whether employing sensing signals for sensing multiple or single scattering points of the target object. According to various examples, the assistance information may be indicative of whether the sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of a target object or a further sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a single scattering point of the target object is to be performed.

[0058] In addition, the assistance information may comprise a density of the multiple scattering points to be sensed, an expected number of scattering points, an expected distance of scattering points, an expected arrangement of scattering points, an expected target object size, and / or a threshold configuration of single or multiple scattering points measurement. An effect of this arrangement may be that the system can guarantee accurate and reliable sensing results, even in complex environments with multiple scattering points.

[0059] A further aspect of the present disclosure relates to a radio node. The radio node is configured for participating in a sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of a target object. The sensing signals are multiplexed with communication signaling of a cellular network. The radio node comprises compute circuitry. The compute circuitry is configured to provide a measurement report including measurement results of the sensing measurement. The measurement results comprise for each point of the multiple scattering points of the target object one or more observables.

[0060] The radio node may be a device that transmits and receives signals over a wireless communication network, such as a cellular network. The radio node may be user equipment or a base station. An effect of this disclosure may be that it enables accurate and efficient measurement of multiple scattering points of a passive target object using a few or even a single radio node. By multiplexing the sensing signals with communication signaling of a cellular network, the system can reduce the complexity and cost of the overall system, leading to improved performance and scalability in sensing applications.

[0061] The radio node may be configured to perform the above described methods.

[0062] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a node of a cellular network. The node comprises compute circuitry configured to obtain, from each of one or more radio nodes connected to the cellular network, a measurement report including measurement results of a sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of a target object. The sensing signals are multiplexed with communication signaling of the cellular network. The measurement results comprise for each point of the multiple scattering points of the target object one or more observables.

[0063] The node of the cellular network may be a device that provides connectivity and data processing services to radio nodes connected to the cellular network, such as a server in the core of the cellular network. Compute circuitry refers to hardware and software components that perform computational tasks, such as processing measurement reports from radio nodes. This may enable centralized processing and analysis of measurement results from multiple radio nodes, allowing for improved accuracy and efficiency in sensing applications. By obtaining measurement reports from one or more radio nodes connected to the cellular network, the node can provide a comprehensive view of the target object's properties and characteristics.

[0064] The node may be configured to perform the above described methods.

[0065] In an example, a system may include the radio node of a cellular network as described above and the node as described above, e.g. a core network node, that obtains measurement reports from radio nodes connected to the cellular network. The second node may obtain measurement results of a sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of a target object.

[0066] A system in this context may be understood as an assembly of interconnected devices, including core network nodes and radio nodes, working together to provide sensing capabilities. It is to be understood that the features mentioned above and those yet to be explained below may be used not only in the respective combinations indicated, but also in other combinations or in isolation without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0067] Brief description of the drawings

[0068] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a mono-static sensing topology of a sensing measurement according to various examples.

[0069] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a bi-static sensing topology of a sensing measurement according to various examples. FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a multi-static sensing topology of a sensing measurement according to various examples.

[0070] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a system for JCAS / ISAC according to various examples. FIG. 5 schematically illustrates a single scattering point measurement according to various examples.

[0071] FIG. 6 schematically illustrates a multiple scattering point measurement according to various examples.

[0072] FIG. 7 schematically illustrates a multiple scattering point measurement simulation according to various examples.

[0073] FIG. 8 schematically illustrates a delay spectrum of a channel impulse response according to various examples.

[0074] FIG. 9 schematically illustrates an enlarged part of the delay spectrum of FIG. 8.

[0075] FIG. 10 is a signaling diagram according to various examples.

[0076] FIG. 11 illustrates multiple scattering points at an exemplary target object according to various examples.

[0077] FIG. 12 schematically illustrates an apparatus according to various examples. FIG. 13 schematically illustrates an apparatus according to various examples. FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a method according to various examples.

[0078] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a method according to various examples.

[0079] Detailed Description

[0080] Some examples of the present disclosure generally provide for a plurality of circuits or other electrical devices. All references to the circuits and other electrical devices and the functionality provided by each are not intended to be limited to encompass only that which is illustrated and described herein. While particular labels may be assigned to the various circuits or other electrical devices disclosed, such labels are not intended to limit the scope of operation for the circuits and the other electrical devices. Such circuits and other electrical devices may be combined with each other and / or separated in any manner based on the particular type of electrical implementation that is desired. It is recognized that any circuit or other electrical device disclosed herein may include any number of microcontrollers, a graphics processor unit (GPU), integrated circuits, memory devices (e.g., FLASH, random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), electrically programmable read only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), or other suitable variants thereof), and software, which interact with each other to perform the operation(s) disclosed herein. In addition, any one or more of the electrical devices may be configured to execute a program code that is embodied in a non-transitory computer-readable medium programmed to perform any number of the functions as disclosed.

[0081] In the following, embodiments of the invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the following description of embodiments is not to be taken in a limiting sense. The scope of the invention is not intended to be limited by the embodiments described hereinafter or by the drawings, which are taken to be illustrative only. The drawings are to be regarded as being schematic representations and elements illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale. Rather, the various elements are represented such that their function and general purpose become apparent to a person skilled in the art. Any connection or coupling between functional blocks, devices, components, or other physical or functional units shown in the drawings or described herein may also be implemented by an indirect connection or coupling. A coupling between components may also be established over a wireless connection. Functional blocks may be implemented in hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof.

[0082] Hereinafter, aspects related to JCAS are disclosed. JCAS corresponds to a communication system that additionally offers sensing functionality. JCAS communication systems re-use hardware for sensing, thereby saving resources if compared to a reference scenario in which two separate systems are used. The aspects disclosed herein can be similarly applied to ISAC. While positioning refers to the estimation of the position of (active) radio nodes connected to the cellular network, e.g., wireless terminals (UEs), sensing, on the other hand, enables to additionally sense passive objects in a surrounding of radio nodes connected to the cellular network. A passive object does not actively transmit or receive the sensing signals. Sensing signals are reflected and / or scattered at the passive objects. Sensing includes a transmission of a sensing signal or a set of sensing signals and processing these sensing signals to extract sensing information.

[0083] A sensing signal may be a chirped signal, i.e. , incorporating a frequency sweep over a certain allocated bandwidth. A sensing signal may be an Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing signal. A sensing signal may be Code Division Multiplexed. A base signal is sinusoidal, but a spreading code is applied. The spreading code includes a sequence of chips (e.g., +1, -1 , -1 , +1, +1, -1 , ...). For instance, aperiodic or random or pseudo-random sequence of chips can be used. The sequence of chips is then mapped to phase values which stay constant during the chirp duration. The sensing signal that has a bandwidth that is proportional to the inverse of the chirp duration. By choosing orthogonal spreading sequences, code division multiplexing (CDM) of multiple sensing signals can be achieved. Thereby, a receiver radio node (RX radio node) receiving the sensing signals can separate respective information. A sensing signal can be similar to the existing reference signal in 5G NR (New Radio), such as positioning reference signal (PRS), Channel State Information Reference Signal (CSI-RS), etc. A sensing signal can be associated to a certain frequency range. A sensing signal in frequency range 1 and / or frequency range 2 can be multiplexed using OFDM. Sensing signals in different frequency ranges may have different configurations, such as sub-carrier spacing (SCS) or bandwidth. A sensing signal may be in a different form if it is operated in sub tera Hertz frequencies in which non-OFDM is expected to be deployed.

[0084] The sensing measurements of joint communication and sensing employ sensing signals that are multiplexed with communication signaling of the cellular network. For instance, time multiplexing and / or frequency multiplexing can be used. It would be possible that timefrequency resources are centrally allocated by a scheduler that schedules communication signaling as well to the sensing signals. For instance, a time-frequency resource grid of a wireless link may include multiple resource elements and these resource elements may be allocated either to communication signaling or sensing signals of the sensing measurement by the scheduler. For instance, such scheduler may reside at a base station of a radio-access network of the cellular network. By multiplexing these sensing signals with the communication signaling of the cellular network, interference between the communication signaling and the sensing measurement can be mitigated. Furthermore, the sensing signals and communication signaling may be both transmitted and received by the same hardware. In some examples, sensing and communication may use the exact same signal, such as one signal for both sensing and communication instead of two independent sequences / signals multiplexed in different spectrum.

[0085] Sensing can be used to support various use cases, such as object detection (presence), object identification, object tracking, object mapping, object positioning, object ranging, object counting, object velocity, etc.

[0086] JCAS / ISAC can employ various sensing topologies. Among varies topologies, three commonly discussed configurations are mono-static, bi-static and multi-static sensing.

[0087] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a mono-static sensing topology A user equipment (UE) 106 implements, both, a transmitter radio node (TX radio node) transmitting sensing signals 120; as well as a receiver radio node (RX radio node) detecting echoes 126 of the sensing signals 120 reflected and / or scattered at a physical (passive) target object 114 in the surrounding. For instance, the UE 106 may use the same antenna panel for transmitting the sensing signals 120 and for receiving the echoes of the sensing signals 126.

[0088] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a bi-static sensing topology. Here, a base station (BS) 108, e.g. a gNB, implements the TX radio node and a UE 106 implements the RX radio node. In another example, a UE 106 implements the TX radio node and a BS 108 implements the RX radio node. More generally, in a bi-static sensing topology, two different radio nodes participate in the sensing measurement and cooperate to implement the sensing measurement.

[0089] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a multi-static sensing topology. Generally, in multi-static sensing topologies a plurality of TX radio nodes and / or a plurality of RX radio nodes are involved. The example of FIG. 3 can be seen as a combination of the mono-static sensing topology of FIG. 1 and the bi-static sensing topology of FIG. 2. In FIG. 3, the BS 108 implements, both, a TX radio node as well as a RX radio node, i.e. , a TX / RX radio node. A further BS 118 implements a TX radio node transmitting a further sensing signal 130 causing an echo 132 at the target object 114. The UE 106 implements a RX radio node. Multiple echoes 126, 302, 132 of the sensing signals 120, 130 are detected.

[0090] There are further sensing topologies, beyond those illustrated in FIG. 1 , FIG. 2, and FIG. 3. For example, in a multi-static sensing topology in which more than three different radio nodes participate in and cooperate to implement the sensing measurement. For instance, multiple UEs can participate in the sensing measurement. The RX radio node may be different than the TX radio node. In another example, multiple BSs may act as TX radio nodes and a UE may act as RX radio node, participating in sensing measurement by receiving the sensing signals from the multiple BSs.

[0091] Using a sensing measurement based on a sensing signal, it is possible to determine object- related information for a passive object such as the object 114. This is done by investigating multiple multipath components of the radio channel. The multipath components stem from radio signals reaching the RX radio node through various spatial paths due to reflections, diffraction, and scattering caused by the objects (obstacles) in the environment, such as buildings, trees, terrain, vehicles, persons, etc.. Each spatial path is associated with a respective distance between TX radio node and RX radio node; typically, those distances are different for different spatial paths and thus a given sensing signal (or, more precisely, multiple echoes of the sensing signal) arrives at the RX radio node at slightly different times for the different multipath components. This temporal spread, known as delay spread, leads to each multipath component having its own delay, amplitude or power, angle-of-arrival, angle-of-departure, and phase shift. Also, different Doppler characteristics (e.g., Doppler shifts) can be observed for moving objects. For example, a first spatial path may be a line-of-sight path or, at least, a path within minimum distance of the electromagnetic waves between the TX radio node and the RX radio node. The first spatial path may have higher amplitude or power of the electromagnetic waves at the RX radio node if compared to higher-order spatial paths, e.g., second or third spatial paths. Higher order spatial paths are typically associated with reflections at physical objects.

[0092] Illustrated in FIG. 4 is a scenario in a cellular network 100 in which the BS 108 and the UE 106 participate in a sensing measurement. While the specific scenario FIG. 4 corresponds to the bistatic sensing topology of FIG. 2, as a general rule, various configurations of sensing measurements are conceivable, e.g. mono-static and multi-static sensing topologies.

[0093] For instance, a node 110 implementing a Sensing Management Function (SeMF) can configure the BS 108 and / or the UE 106 or, more generally, one or more radio nodes, to participate in a sensing measurement. This can include configuration to transmit sensing signals and / or attempt to receive sensing signals and perform measurement and / or to provide measurement reports associated with the sensing signals. Different radio nodes engaging in the sensing measurement can be configured with specific types of measurement techniques, types of measurement reports or, more generally, specific reporting procedures. The measurement report may depend on the type of the radio node. For instance, mobile radio nodes may be configured with a different reporting procedure if compared to static radio nodes. Radio nodes dedicated to the sensing measurement can be configured with a specific reporting procedure. In this example, BS 108 transmits sensing signals 120 (e.g., Sensing Reference Signals, SeRSs) and UE 106 is expected to receive the reflected / scattered sensing signals 122, 124, 126. A communication 128 between the UE 106, BS 108 and the node 110 may be accomplished via wired or wireless communication of the cellular network 100, including e.g. LTE, 5G or 6G data communication or the Internet.

[0094] In detail, FIG. 4 illustrates a downlink(DL)-like bi-static sensing, i.e. the BS 108 acts as a SeRS transmitter, broadcasting SeRSs to its environment, and the UE 106 receives the reflected / scattered SeRSs. An SeRS may comprise an omnidirectional signal, or one or more spatially directed components. Here, each such SeRS component can be referred to as a 'ray'. Three rays 120 in different directions to objects 102, 104 and 114 are illustrated. Each ray then bounces off different passive objects, either the target object 114 or a surrounding object 102 or 104. These interactions change the properties of the reflected rays. The UE 106, in this deployment, works as a SeRS receiver aimed at capturing the reflected rays and estimating the sensing channel. This estimation allows the UE 108 to derive sensing measurements associated with the target object 114, which are then reported to the SeMF 110 for further processing. The SeMF 110 is used to perform various sensing tasks such as object detection, localization and identification using the received measurement report from UE 106. In other sensing schemes / topologies, the measurement report may also come from the gNB 108. In addition to the measurement processing, the SeMF 110 is also tasked to communicate with the UE 106 via e.g. the 3GPP layer primarily to 1) receive the sensing measurement reports and 2) provide assistance information to support the UE 106 in the sensing measurement. These two aspects will be described in more detail below.

[0095] One of the tasks of an ISAC system may be object identification. This task involves not only detecting the presence of the target object but also estimating more detailed information such as the object’s type, shape and size. Single-point Radar Cross Section (RCS) measurements are insufficient for this task, as they over-simplify the object’s scattering pattern. To accurately resolve an object (type, shape and size), an ISAC system must consider the object’s 3D properties, including a more complex scattering pattern with multiple scattering points.

[0096] FIG. 5 illustrates techniques of single-point RCS measurement. The single scattering point RCS techniques are a simplified representation used in radar and signal processing to characterize how an object reflects electromagnetic rays, e.g., ISAC signals. In these techniques, an object is approximated by a single point that scatters the incident signals. This point is assumed to be the dominant reflector, whose reflection / scattering characteristics are described by the RCS. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 5, the gNB 108 may emit sensing signals 120 that are reflected and / or scattered at the target object 114. The UE 106 may receive the reflected and / or scattered sensing signals 126. Based on the characteristics of the scattered sensing signals 126, the UE 106 may generate a measurement report including measurement results of the sensing measurement. The measurement results comprise one or more observables for the received sensing signals 126, for example a signal strength, a time of arrival and / or an angle of arrival. The measurement report may be transmitted to the SeMF 110 via communication 128. The SeMF 110 may determine the position of the target object 114 based on the measurement results from the UE 106. In order to determine the position of the target object 114, the SeMF 110 may consider further information, for example an angle of the departure of the emitted sensing signals 120 and measurement results from further UE's in a multi-static sensing topology.

[0097] The single-point RCS measurement techniques do not take into account the interactions of the rays with different parts of the target object, such as multiple reflections and scattering due to the object’s 3D shape. While this simplification can be useful for certain applications, such as object presence detection, it often leads to inaccurate performance when detailed information about the object’s type, shape or size is required.

[0098] Unlike the single scattering point measurement techniques, multiple scattering point measurement techniques represents an object as a collection of multiple scattering points. Each point corresponds to a different segment / part of the object. These points are assumed as scattering centers distributed across the object’s surface. Thus each of these points has its own reflective property. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, when the gNB 108 transmits sensing signals 120 towards the target object 114, it may be assumed that each scattering point of the object independently reflects and scatters the incident sensing signals according to its own ROS. The signals reflected and scattered from all scattering points are aggregated, e.g., summing magnitude and phase contributions of each scatter. For example, groups of reflected / scattered signals may be formed based on an essentially the same delay, angle of arrival, and / or Doppler shift. For example, the reflected / scattered signals (rays) 126A may have essentially a same angle of arrival and delay. For example, "substantially " the same angle of arrival may mean that the angles of arrival of the reflected / scattered signals (rays) 126A do not differ by more than a predefined threshold, e.g., no more than 0.1°, 1°, or 5°. Similarly, "substantially " the same delay may mean that the delays of the reflected / scattered signals (rays) 126A do not differ by more than a predefined threshold, e.g., no more than 0.5ns, 1ns, or 5ns. In other words, "substantially " the same may mean that the measurements are within an expected spread among scattering points. The different scattering points of the object may be assigned to the groups. Characteristics of each group, for example summing magnitude and phase, may thus be determined for each scattering point. For example, three groups 126A, 126B and 126C may be formed as illustrated in FIG. 6 relating to a scattering point at the rear, to a scattering point at the side, and to a scattering point at the front, respectively, of the vehicle 114 which is the target object.

[0099] Measurement results comprising the observables associated with each scattering point of the multiple scattering points of the vehicle 114 may be included in the measurement results reported to the SeMF 110 via the communication 128. The observables may include for example summing magnitude and phase as well as delay, angle of arrival and / or Doppler shift. The multiple scattering point techniques require the receiver (the UE 106 in FIG. 6) to analyze and resolve the "aggregated signal" comprising all reflected / scattered signals from all groups. As shown in FIG. 6, the UE 106 receives all reflected / scattered signals from groups 126A, 126B, and 126C. The receiver may use signal processing algorithms to separate different reflected / scattered components from the different scattering points. This may be accomplished by estimating the delay, Doppler shift, and / or angular characteristics of each of the reflected / scattered signal components. Each of the reflected rays corresponds to a scattering point of an object. Thereafter, the system (e.g., the UE 106 and / or the SeMF 110) may further infer the geometry of the object 114, including the shape and size of the object, and even identify the type of object, using the delay, Doppler shift and angle estimates. In the same way, groups may be identified to belong to a same target object.

[0100] FIG. 7 illustrates a ray tracing simulation of bi-static sensing. In this simulation, a vehicle-shaped cube 114 is placed in an environment of a transmitter radio node 108 and a receiver radio node 106. The cube 114 serves as the target object. The transmitter radio node 108 and the receiver radio node 106 may be placed about 10 meters away from the object 114. As shown, multiple scattering points are distributed over the surface of the object 114. These scattering points reflect / scatter the incident rays 120 from the transmitter radio node 108 and re-radiate them to the receiver radio node 106 as scattered rays 126. A further ray 802 may pass along a line of sight (LOS) from the transmitter radio node 108 to the receiver radio node 106.

[0101] In general, reflection and scattering are two related but distinct concepts in physics, particularly in the context of wave propagation. Both processes involve the interaction of waves with surfaces or objects, but they differ in how the waves behave after the interaction. Reflection occurs when a wave hits a surface and bounces back without changing direction significantly. The wave is said to be "reflected" by the surface. In reflection, the angle of incidence (the angle at which the wave approaches the surface) equals the angle of reflection (the angle at which the wave leaves the surface). Scattering occurs when a wave interacts with an object or surface and changes direction in multiple ways. Unlike reflection, scattering involves a more random and diffuse redistribution of the wave's energy. The scattered waves can travel in various directions.

[0102] Differences between reflection and scattering are directionality and energy distribution. Reflection involves a single bounce back direction from the surface, whereas scattering involves multiple changes in direction. In reflection, most of the energy is reflected back in a single direction, while in scattering, the energy is distributed over a larger angle.

[0103] FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 depict a Channel Impulse Response (CIR) of a multiple scattering point measurement captured by the receiver radio node 106 of FIG. 7. The rays 126 from different scattering points are separated / resolved in a delay spectrum. Each peak / sample in the CIR represents a sum of rays sharing the same propagation delay. The plot in FIG. 8 shows the whole delay spectrum and the plot in FIG. 9 highlights a part of the delay spectrum of the reflection / scattering pattern.

[0104] A first peak 602 in the plot of FIG. 8 represents the direct LOS ray 802 from the transmitter radio node 108 to the receiver radio node 106. A second peak 604 indicates the specular reflection, as it has in this example the shortest propagation time in the group. Additional rays from different scattering points are separated / resolved in the delay spectrum. Following the specular reflection, there are numerous samples 606 representing the scattered rays from multiple scattering points at the object 114. Characteristics of the delay spectrum, for example positions of the sequence of peaks, may be utilized to identify characteristics of the object 114 or identify specific scattering points of the object 114 thus grouping scattered rays to a specific scattering point (see e.g. the ray groups 126A, 126B, 126C in FIG. 6).

[0105] Thus, ISAC operation in a cellular network with sensing measurement based on single and multiple scattering points may support various services, including object detection, identification, tracking, gesture recognition, etc. The sensing measurement (e.g., either single I multiple scattering points) may be performed based on the required services. In this way, the computing load on the sensing receiver and also the amount of signaling (e.g., measurement report) can be performed I provided based on the need. A procedure / protocol for enabling single / multiple scattering points in ISAC cellular network that ensures efficient operation of the involved nodes (especially the sensing receiver) and also efficient signaling will be described in more detail below. FIG. 10 shows a signaling diagram depicting signaling that may be performed in the cellular network 100 of FIGs. 4 to 6. In the signaling diagram of FIG. 10, the UE 106 is the receiver radio node that receives the reflected and scattered sensing signals 126, and the gNB 108 is the transmitter radio node that transmits the sensing signals 120. However, this is only an example and in other examples, the gNB 108 may be the receiver radio node and another gNB may be the transmitter radio node, or in further examples, the UE 106 may be the transmitter radio node and another UE or gNB may be the receiver radio node.

[0106] In general, the sensing receiver, i.e. UE 106, may perform single or multiple scattering point measurements and may provide reports accordingly, depending on the sensing topology. Thus, apart from transmitting the measurement report 714, all other signaling may be optional.

[0107] The UE 106 may transmit a capability indication 702 to the SeMF 110. The capability indication 702 may indicate whether the UE 106 can perform single or multiple scattering point measurements. If the UE 106 can perform multiple scattering point measurements, the capability indication 702 may indicate further characteristics on the multiple scattering point measurements, for example a maximum number of scattering points of the target object that can be sensed.

[0108] The sensing signal transmitter radio node, in this example the gNB (or TRP in a gNB) 108, may transmit its sensing reference signal transmission (SeRS Tx) configuration 704 to the SeMF 110. The SeRS Tx configuration may indicate characteristics of the SeRS, for example frequency, power, modulation, timeslots, directions, identifiers etc.

[0109] Based on the capabilities of the UE 106 and the SeRS Tx configuration, the SeMF 110 may determine and transmit a sensing configuration 706 to the UE 106.

[0110] When triggered by the SeMF 110, the UE 106 receives one or more measurement requests 708 to perform sensing measurement. The measurement request 708 may represent the trigger for the UE 106 to start performing the sensing measurement. The sensing measurement may start immediately or according to a (pre-)defined schedule. The measurement request 708 may contain information on whether to perform single or multiple scattering point measurement. In the case of multiple scattering points measurement, the SeMF 110 can provide assistance information 710 to the UE 106, including for example scattering point density requirements, expected number of scattering points, expected distance between scattering points, and the arrangement of the multiple-points.

[0111] For example, for a specific expected target object, one point can be designated as a reference point, with the remaining points located relative to it. The reference point can be a specific position at the target object or a point where the target object provides the best sensing estimation (e.g., highest RCS). For example, if the target object to be sensed is a vehicle, for example the vehicle 114 shown in FIG: 11 , the assistance information 710 may include the relative arrangement of points to be sensed at the vehicle 114. FIG: 11 illustrates a top view of the vehicle 114 with six points 402 to 412 to be sensed, with a first point 402 at the front serving as the reference point, a second point 408 at the rear and four further points 404, 406, 410 and 412 at each wheel.

[0112] Additionally, SeMF 110 can provide as the assistance information 710 an expected spread in propagation time, angular spread and / or velocity spread among scattering points. This assistance information 710 can be associated per object type, allowing for tailored sensing and reporting. In one example, a set of object types has been predefined, such as UAV, human, and car. Each of the object types has its own a set of assistance information parameters.

[0113] A sensing measurement 712 may then be performed by transmitting SeRSs 120 from the gNB 108, and receiving SeRS 126 scattered and reflected by the target object 114.

[0114] For each identified target object 114, the UE 106 may provide a sensing measurement report 714. In case of a single scattering point based measurement, the report 714 may contain one or more of the following: an RCS value representing the joint effect of the reflection / scattering from multiple scattering points, Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) measurements, Time Of Arrival (TOA) measurements, Doppler shift measurements, Angle Of Arrival (AoA) measurements, and Angle Of Departure (AoD) measurements. In case of a multiple scattering point measurement, the report 714 may contain a vector of measurement results (e.g., a vector of RCSs in which each element represents one or a sub-group of scatter point sharing a same delay / angle / Doppler shift), a vector of multiple RSRP measurements, TOA measurements, Doppler shift measurements, AoA measurements, and AoD measurements corresponding to different scattering points at the target object 114, the ID of the reference scattering point, or information from one specific or a subset of scattering point(s) that provide more information than the rest.

[0115] In some examples, the UE 106 may perform operations autonomously, whether to perform single or multiple scattering point measurements, e.g. based on certain criteria (e.g., a threshold). For instance, if the distance between the target object 114 and the UE 106 is greater than a threshold, then the UE 106 may perform a single scattering point measurement, if the distance between the target object 114 and the UE 106 is smaller than a threshold, then the UE 106 may perform a multiple scattering point measurement. Alternatively, this determination can be made by delay / doppler shift / angular spread measurements, such as Mean Excess Delay or Root Mean Square (RMS) delay spread, which characterizes how long the delay samples span in the CIR. If the spread measurements are smaller than pre-defined thresholds (indicating a small object), then the UE 106 may perform single scattering point measurement. FIG. 12 schematically illustrates an apparatus 800, e.g., a node or a device. For instance, the apparatus 800 can implement the sensing management function 110. The apparatus 800 includes a processor 802 and a memory 804. The processor 802 and the memory 804 form a compute circuitry. The apparatus 800 also includes a communication interface 806. The processor 802 can communicate with other apparatuses via the communication interface 806. The processor 802 can load program code from the memory 804 and execute the program code. The processor 802 can perform techniques as disclosed herein upon loading and executing the program code. For instance, the processor 802 can execute the method of FIG. 14.

[0116] FIG. 13 schematically illustrates an apparatus 900, e.g., a node or a device. For instance, the apparatus 900 can implement the UE 106 or the gNB 108. The apparatus 900 includes a processor 902 and a memory 904. The processor 902 and the memory 904 form a compute circuitry. The apparatus 900 also includes a communication interface 906 that supports wireless communication via one or more antennas 908. The processor 902 can communicate with other apparatuses via the communication interface 906. The processor 902 can receive and / or transmit SeRS via the interface 906 and the antenna(s) 908. The processor 902 can load program code from the memory 904 and execute the program code. The processor 902 can perform techniques as disclosed herein upon loading and executing the program code. For instance, the processor 902 can execute the method of FIG. 15.

[0117] FIG. 14 is a flowchart 1400 of a method according to various examples. FIG. 14 generally relates to implementation of a sensing measurement. FIG. 14 specifically relates to the management of a sensing measurement executed by one or more nodes.

[0118] The method of FIG. 14 can be executed by a node of a cellular network. For example, the method can be executed by a compute circuitry of the node of the cellular network. For instance, the method can be executed by a processor upon loading and executing program code that is stored in a memory. For example, the method of FIG. 14 may be executed by a node that is located in a core network of the cellular network. The node may be the apparatus 800 of FIG. 12. The node may be a management node, i.e. , execute a management function for managing a plurality of sensing measurements at multiple radio nodes. For instance, such node may be labeled Sensing Management Function. The Sensing Management Function (SeMF) can implement a collection of measurement reports, processing of measurement reports, e.g., for localization, and / or co ntro l / coo rd i nation amongst various radio nodes executing sensing measurements. In another example, SeMF can be a new function of the legacy location management function (LMF) as in 5G core network.

[0119] At optional box 1402, the node obtains information indicative of a capability of one or more radio nodes, e.g., one or more UEs 106 and / or one or more base stations, such as gNB 108. The capability is associated with performing sensing measurements and / or reporting thereof. For instance, box 1402 can include receiving a higher-layer control message such as sensingprotocol message, or a positioning protocol message (e.g., Third Generation Partnership, 3GPP, Long Term Evolution, LTE, Positioning Protocol, LPP, message or a message having a format related to the LPP message format). In other examples, the capabilities of the one or more radio nodes may be predefined in the network or otherwise provided by the one or more radio nodes, e.g., upon registration with the cellular network, and thus known to the node.

[0120] The capability can be indicative of whether the respective radio node is capable of executing a sensing measurement, e.g., using a certain topology. The capability can be indicative of whether the respective radio node is capable of using a certain type of sensing signal, e.g., a chirped signal or a CDM signal. The capability can be indicative of whether the respective radio node is capable of performing a certain type of sensing measurement technique. Alternatively or additionally, the capability can be indicative of whether the respective radio node is capable of supporting a certain reporting procedure for reporting on a sensing measurement. For instance, the capability can be indicative of whether the respective radio node can provide a measurement report that includes certain information. The capability can be indicative of whether the respective radio node is capable of performing single scattering point sensing measurement and / or multiple scattering point sensing measurement. At optional box 1404, the node provides information indicative of a configuration of the sensing measurement to each of one or more radio nodes. For instance, box 1404 can be responsive to obtaining the information indicative of the capability at box 1402. It would be possible that box 1404 is responsive to a respective sensing request obtained from an application. For instance, the application may implement an object counting, object tracking or object positioning use case. The application can then request execution of a respective sensing measurement; this can trigger providing the configuration to the one or more radio nodes. In another example, configuration information may contain the SeRS configuration in which the SeRS is to be used for sensing measurement at the sensing receiver. In some examples, the configuration information may be predefined in the network or otherwise provided to the one or more radio nodes, e.g., upon registration with the cellular network, and thus known to the one or more radio nodes.

[0121] Box 1404 can include providing at least one configuration message to one or more radio nodes participating in the sensing measurement, the configuration message comprising information indicative of a configuration of the sensing measurement. It would be possible to employ an end-to-end protocol for providing the at least one configuration message, the end-to-end protocol terminating at the node and the respective radio node or radio nodes. For instance, if a mono-static sensing measurement is to be executed, it can be sufficient to provide the configuration message to the single radio node executing the mono-static sensing measurement (cf. FIG. 1). On the other hand, for another sensing topology is used, a single configuration message can be provided to multiple radio nodes or multiple configuration messages can be provided to each of multiple radio nodes. The configuration message provided at box 1404 can be a higher-layer control message, e.g., a Layer 2 or Layer 3 control message, or higher than layer 3, in a form of dedicated sensing protocol message or LPP-like protocol message. For instance, a configuration message can be provided to a SeRS transmitter radio node and / or a configuration message can be provided to a SeRS receiver radio node, e.g., in a bi-static or multi-static sensing topology.

[0122] The configuration can select between different sensing topologies. For example, the configuration message or the configuration messages can be indicative of a selected one of mono-static sensing topology (cf. FIG. 1), bi-static sensing topology (cf. FIG. 2), and multi-static sensing topology (cf. FIG. 3).

[0123] It would be possible that the configuration determines a frequency bandwidth of a transmission of a sensing signal. For instance, it would be possible to specify a number of subcarriers that are to be employed for transmitting the sensing signal. Alternatively or additionally, it would be possible to indicate one or more bandwidth parts that are to be used for transmitting the sensing signal.

[0124] It would be possible that the configuration is indicative of resources - e.g., timing information and / or timeslots and / or frequency resources and / or time-frequency resources such as resource blocks or resource elements - to be used for transmitting the sensing signals.

[0125] As a general rule, the configuration can be determined in accordance with the capabilities of the one or more radio nodes (cf. box 1402). For instance, certain radio nodes may have limited reporting capability and, accordingly, may be associated with a respective reporting procedure that takes into account the limited reporting capability. To give an example, certain radio nodes may not be able to process measurement data associated with the sensing measurement to determine object-related sensing information - e.g., a location of a passive object in a surrounding - and, accordingly, cannot be configured to provide a measurement report that is indicative of such preprocessed object-related sensing information. Furthermore, by dynamically configuring different reporting procedures, it is possible to take into account different sensing constraints. For instance, a certain application may request the sensing measurement and indicate an acceptable latency or accuracy. Then, more relaxed or more strict reporting rules can be specified as part of the reporting procedure, e.g., specifying a timing or repetition of the reporting.

[0126] The configuration may configure one or more reporting procedures at the one or more radio nodes. The one or more reporting procedures define how the one or more radio nodes provide one or more measurement reports for the sensing measurement. Different sensing measurements can be associated with different reporting procedures. Different radio nodes can be associated with different reporting procedures.

[0127] The one or more reporting procedures can include at least one reporting schedule. As a general rule, the reporting schedule can define periodic reports or aperiodic reports. Aperiodic reports could be one or more of the following: event-triggered reports or change-triggered reports. Periodic reporting can be associated with repetitive resources allocated to measurement reports provided by the one or more radio nodes participating in the sensing measurement. For instance, a certain repetitive schedule, e.g., cyclic or periodic schedule, can be defined for providing the reports. A latency of the sensing measurement is limited by the frequency of occurrence of such periodic reports. Aperiodic reporting can be provided upon detecting a significant change in one or more observables associated with one or more multipath components of the radio channel. For instance, it would be possible to track, at each of at least one of the radio nodes, a development of the radio channel and responsive to detecting significant changes, a respective measurement report can be provided. Also, it would be possible that measurement reports are triggered by the cellular network, e.g., by the sensing management function. For instance, trigger signals can be provided to trigger a report. Such trigger signals can be relatively compact and do not need to include the configuration of the reporting procedure.

[0128] At optional box 1406, a sensing measurement request (trigger) is provided to the radio nodes to start the sensing measurement. The sensing measurement request may include whether to perform a single scattering point measurement or multiple scattering point measurement. Along with the sensing measurement request at box 1406, assistance information may be provided in optional box 1408. It would be possible to include information whether to perform a single scattering point measurement or multiple scattering point measurement in the assistance information in box 1408. In case of a multiple scattering point measurement, the assistance information may comprise a density of the multiple scattering points to be sensed, an expected number of scattering points, an expected distance of scattering points, an expected arrangement of scattering points, and / or an expected target object size. The assistance information may comprise a threshold configuration of single or multiple scattering points measurement for the radio node to decide on its own whether to perform single or multiple scattering point measurements. The optional box 1408 can also be provided prior to box 1406. In some examples, the sensing measurement may be started autonomously by the radio nodes, e.g., according to a predefined schedule provided in the network or otherwise provided to the radio nodes, e.g., upon registration with the cellular network. Similarly, in various examples, the assistance information may be predefined in the network or otherwise provided to the radio nodes, e.g., upon registration with the cellular network.

[0129] At box 1410, one or more measurement reports of the sensing measurement are obtained from at least one of the radio nodes participating in the sensing measurement. It would be possible that all receiving radio nodes provide a respective measurement report. Measurement reports may also be aggregated amongst all participating radio nodes and then, e.g., the aggregated information may be provided via a reporting hub. Aggregation over time would alternatively or additionally be possible. More than one receiver radio node can be configured to provide a measurement report at a given time and / or within certain time window.

[0130] It would be possible that the one or more measurement reports are transparent to a radioaccess network of the cellular network. An end-to-end protocol between the node (e.g., implementing a sensing management function) and the reporting radio nodes may be established. For instance, higher-layer control messages can be signaled on logical links established between each of the radio nodes and the sensing management function. Therefore, other nodes in the radio-access network do not need to process such measurement reports. The measurement reports are transparent to the radio-access network of the cellular network. For example, it can be in a form of sensing protocol message or LPP-like protocol message. The one or measurement reports may include timing information of a transmission or reception of the sensing signal. I.e., time stamps can be provided that are linked to the actual execution of a transmission of a sensing signal. This is, in particular, helpful for dynamic environments with frequently changing properties of passive target objects. A time resolution can thereby be increased.

[0131] It would be possible that the one or more measurement reports are indicative of a sensing topology of the sensing measurement. Multiple sensing measurements may be managed in parallel by the node. It would be possible that the multiple sensing measurements are each associated with a unique sensing measurement identity. The one or more measurement reports may be indicative of such sensing measurement identity. The one or more measurement reports can be indicative of an identity of the one or more radio nodes participating in the sensing measurement, i.e., by transmitting the sensing signal and / or by receiving the sensing signal. The one or more measurement reports can be indicative of an identity of a respective radio node providing the respective measurement report.

[0132] At least one of the one or more measurement reports may include one or more observables for each of multiple multipath components of a radio channel of the sensing signals. For instance, a measurement report can include multiple observables for each of multiple multipath components. In case of a multiple scattering point measurement, the measurement report may comprise one or more observables associated which each scattering point of the multiple scattering points of the target object sensed by the sensing signals. For example, vectors of corresponding observables associated with each scattering point of the multiple scattering points may be included.

[0133] The multiple observables can be one or more of the following: amplitude of the sensing signal at the receiver radio node; phase of the sensing signal at the receiver radio node; power of the sensing signal at the receiver radio node; delay of the sensing signal at the receiver radio node; angle-of arrival of the sensing signal at the receiver radio node; angle-of-departure of the sensing signal at the transmitter radio node; and / or Doppler frequency shift of the sensing signal at the receiver radio node.

[0134] The at least one measurement report can, accordingly, resolve the multiple multipath components. This means that the at least one measurement report does not only provide information on a single one of the multipath components, e.g., the primary path of the channel providing the lowest propagation delay (often associated with line-of-sight propagation); but rather provides information on multiple paths of the channel. Thus, increased information depth is provided.

[0135] Accordingly, increased information depth may be provided when reporting on multiple observables for multiple multipath components of the radio channel. Full channel information can be provided. This enables accurate post-processing at the node. For instance, complex post-processing algorithms can be executed that detect, locate, track, or identify objects reliably based on such full channel information. Based on observables for each scattering point of the multiple scattering points, a size and / or shape of the target object may be determined, thus identifying an object.

[0136] The full channel information is particularly helpful when determining object-related sensing information for multiple passive objects in the surrounding of the one or more radio nodes, because typically reflections at different ones of the multiple passive objects are associated with different ones of the multiple multipath components of the radio channel.

[0137] Further, it is possible to process the one or more measurement reports obtained at box 1410. The particular processing depends on the information content of the measurement report. For instance, object-related sensing information can be determined based on channel information included in the one or more measurement reports obtained at box 1410. For instance, sensing information can be determined for each of one or more passive objects in the surrounding of the one or more radio nodes.

[0138] As a general rule, object-related sensing information that is determined based on the sensing measurements can include one or more of the following: presence of one or more (passive) target objects in a given area; location of one or more passive objects in the surrounding of the one or more radio nodes executing the sensing measurement; count of one or more passive objects; velocity of one or more passive objects; size of one or more passive object; and / or change detection of one or more properties of the one or more passive objects. For instance, the location may be expressed in a local coordinate system, e.g., as a distance and / or an orientation with respect to a certain reference landmark, e.g., the transmit radio node. In other examples, the location may be expressed as a relative distance to the radio node. The location can, accordingly, be determined using a ranging measurement. It would be possible that the location is expressed in a global coordinate system, e.g., WGS84 and / or latitude and longitude. FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a method 1500 according to various examples. The method of FIG. 15 generally pertains to actions associated with a sensing measurement. FIG. 15 is for use in a radio node participating in a sensing measurement. The node may be the apparatus 900 of FIG. 13. For instance, the method 1500 of FIG. 15 can be executed by a transmitter radio node or a receiver radio node. The method 1500 can be executed by a processor upon loading and executing program code from a memory. For instance, the method 1500 can be executed by the processor 902 of the apparatus 900 upon loading and executing program code from the memory 904. The method 1500 can be executed by a UE such as the UE 106 or can be executed by a base station such as the gNB 108.

[0139] The method 1500 of FIG. 15 can be inter-related to the method 1400 of FIG. 14.

[0140] At optional box 1502, a capability associated with the sensing measurement is provided to a node of a cellular network to which the radio node is connected. For instance, the capability can be provided to a node implementing a sensing management function. Aspects with respect to such signaling of the capability have been previously discussed in connection with FIG. 14 box 1402.

[0141] At optional box 1504, a configuration of the sensing measurement is obtained. For example, one or more configuration messages may be obtained. Box 1504 can be responsive to providing a capability at box 1502. Aspects with respect to such configuration have been previously discussed in connection with FIG. 14: box 1404.

[0142] At optional box 1506, a sensing measurement request may obtained, for example from SeMF 110. In addition, at optional box 1508, assistance information may be obtained. In another example, box 1508 can be performed prior to box 1506. Aspects with respect to such sensing measurement request and assistance information have been previously discussed in connection with FIG. 14: boxes 1406 and 1408, respectively.

[0143] In general, the radio node may be configured to selectively perform a first sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a single scattering point of the target object or a second sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object. At optional box 1510, the radio node may determine whether to perform the first sensing measurement (employing a single scattering point) or the second sensing measurement (employing multiple scattering points) based on a distance between the target object and the sensing receiver, and / or a measurement result determined based on a test sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object, and / or a size of the target object, for example. In various examples, the sensing measurement request or the assistance information may be indicative of instructions for the radio node to perform the first sensing measurement or the second sensing measurement.

[0144] The radio node may participate in the sensing measurement. Participating in the sensing measurement may include transmitting one or more sensing signals and / or attempting to receive (monitoring for) one or more sensing signals. The particular action executed depends on whether the node executing the method of FIG. 15 is a transmit radio node or a receive radio node or both. Receiving the sensing signals includes performing a measurement as discussed above in connection with FIG. 14. Further, it is optionally possible to preprocess the sensing signals. For instance, it would be possible to determine one or more object-related sensing information, e.g., a location, a count, a velocity, a size, an orientation, a shape, an identity etc.

[0145] At box 1512, one or more measurement reports are provided. Aspects with respect to such measurement reports have been previously discussed in connection with FIG. 14: box 1410. Summarizing, above techniques that may be similarly be applied to JCAS as well as ISAC have been disclosed. Aspects with respect to reporting procedures have been disclosed. Different types of measurement reports have been disclosed. Different measurement reports can include different information content, e.g., varying from a full channel report to preprocessed object- related sensing information including information related to or derived from single or multiple scattering point measurements.

[0146] The disclosed techniques may include that the radio node, e.g. the UE 106 or the gNB 108, may indicate its capability of performing single point or multiple point measurement to the SeMF 110. SeMF 110 may send a measurement request requesting whether the radio node should use single scattering point measurement or multiple scattering point measurement and some assistance information aiding the radio node to perform measurement. The radio node may perform either the single scattering point measurement or the multiple scattering point measurement and may provide measurement report according to the measurement request. Summarizing, at least the following EXAMPLES have been disclosed.

[0147] EXAMPLE 1: A method (1500) for use in a node (106, 108) of a cellular network (100), the method comprising: providing (1512) a measurement report including measurement results of a sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing a target object (114), the sensing signals (120, 126, 126A, 126B, 126C) being multiplexed with communication signaling of the cellular network (100), wherein the measurement results comprise one or more observables, the one or more observables being associated with each scattering point of multiple scattering points (402-412) of the target object (114) sensed with the sensing signals.

[0148] EXAMPLE 2: The method of EXAMPLE 1 , further comprising: obtaining (1506) a request to trigger the sensing measurement.

[0149] EXAMPLE 3: The method of EXAMPLE 1 or EXAMPLE 2, further comprising: obtaining (1508) assistance information for the sensing measurement.

[0150] EXAMPLE 4: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, further comprising: providing (1502) a capability of a sensing receiver to perform the sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing multiple scattering points (402-412) of the target object (114).

[0151] EXAMPLE 5: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, wherein the node

[0152] (106, 108) is a radio node including a sensing receiver, the method further comprising: obtaining a distance between the target object (114) and the sensing receiver, performing the sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing multiple scattering points (402-412) of the target object (114) or a further sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126) for sensing a single scattering point of the target object (114) based on the distance between the target object (114) and the sensing receiver.

[0153] EXAMPLE 6: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, wherein the node

[0154] (106, 108) is a radio node, the method further comprising: obtaining a test measurement result determined based on a test sensing measurement employing sensing signals(120, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object (114), performing the sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object (114) or a further sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126) for sensing a single scattering point of the target object (114) based on the test measurement result.

[0155] EXAMPLE 7: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, wherein the node

[0156] (106, 108) is a radio node, the method further comprising: obtaining a size of the target object (114), performing the sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object (114) or a further sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126) for sensing a single scattering point of the target object (114) based on the size of the target object (114).

[0157] EXAMPLE 8: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 5-7, wherein the radio node (106,

[0158] 108) is at least one of a user equipment or a base-station.

[0159] EXAMPLE 9: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 5-8, further comprising: providing a further measurement report including measurement results of the further sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126) for sensing a single scattering point of the target object (114), wherein the measurement results comprise for the single scattering point of the target object (114) one or more observables for a group of multiple sensing signals (126) scattered from the single scattering point.

[0160] EXAMPLE 10: The method of EXAMPLE 9, wherein the node (106, 108) is a radio node including a sensing receiver configured to selectively perform the sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing multiple scattering points (402- 412) of the target object (114) or the further sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126) for sensing a single scattering point of the target object (114), wherein the measurement report or the further measurement report is selectively provided based on the performed measurement.

[0161] EXAMPLE 11 : A method (1400) for use in a node (110) of a cellular network (100), the method comprising: obtaining (1410) a measurement report including measurement results of a sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing a target object, the sensing signals (120, 126, 126A, 126B, 126C) being multiplexed with communication signaling of the cellular network, wherein the measurement results comprise one or more observables, the one or more observables being associated with each scattering point of multiple scattering points (402-412) of the target object (114) sensed with the sensing signals (120, 126, 126A, 126B, 126C). EXAMPLE 12: The method of EXAMPLE 11 , further comprising: providing (1406) a request to trigger the sensing measurement.

[0162] EXAMPLE 13: The method of EXAMPLE 11 or EXAMPLE 12, further comprising: providing (1408) assistance information for the sensing measurement.

[0163] EXAMPLE 14:. The method of any one of EXAMPLES 11 to 13, further comprising: obtaining (1402) a capability of a sensing receiver to perform the sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object (114).

[0164] EXAMPLE 15: The method of any one of EXAMPLES 11 to 14, wherein the node (114) is located in a core network of the cellular network (100) and executes a management function for managing a plurality of sensing measurements at multiple radio nodes (106, 108).

[0165] EXAMPLE 16: The method of EXAMPLE 2 or EXAMPLE 12, wherein the request to trigger the sensing measurement comprises an indication of whether sensing signals (120, 126, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing multiple or single scattering points of the target object (114) are to be employed.

[0166] EXAMPLE 17: The method of EXAMPLE 3 or EXAMPLE 13, wherein the assistance information is indicative of whether the sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing multiple scattering points (402-412) of the target object (114) or a further sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126) for sensing a single scattering point of the target object (114) is to be performed.

[0167] EXAMPLE 18: The method of EXAMPLE 3 or EXAMPLE 13 or EXAMPLE 17, wherein the assistance information comprises at least one of:

[0168] - a density of the multiple scattering points (402-412) to be sensed,

[0169] - an expected number of scattering points (402-412),

[0170] - an expected distance of scattering points (402-412),

[0171] - an expected arrangement of scattering points (402-412),

[0172] - an expected target object size, and

[0173] - a threshold configuration of single or multiple scattering points measurement.

[0174] EXAMPLE 19: The method of EXAMPLE 4 or EXAMPLE 14, wherein the capability of the sensing receiver is indicative of a maximum number of scattering points of the target object (114) that can be sensed.

[0175] EXAMPLE 20: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, wherein each of the one or more observables is associated with a group of multiple sensing signals (126A, 126B, 126C) scattered from a specific one of the multiple scattering points (402-412) of the target object (114), wherein a scattered sensing signal is assigned to a group of multiple sensing signals (126A, 126B, 126C) based on signal properties of the scattered sensing signal.

[0176] EXAMPLE 21 : The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, wherein the one or more observables comprise for each scattering point (402-412) a Radar Cross Section (RCS) value. EXAMPLE 22: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, wherein the one or more observables comprise, for each scattering point (402-412), at least one of reference signal received power, time of arrival, Doppler shift, angle of arrival, and angle of departure.

[0177] EXAMPLE 23: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, wherein the measurement report includes for at least one of the multiple scattering points (402-412) more observables than for another one of the multiple scattering points (402-412).

[0178] EXAMPLE 24: The method of any one of the preceding EXAMPLES, wherein the one or more observables comprise, for each scattering point (402-412), an identifier of the scattering point (402-412).

[0179] EXAMPLE 25: A node (106, 108) configured for participating in a sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing multiple scattering points (402-412) of a target object (114), the sensing signals (120, 126, 126A, 126B, 126C) being multiplexed with communication signaling of a cellular network (100), the node (106, 108) comprising compute circuitry (902, 904) configured to: provide (1512) a measurement report including measurement results of the sensing measurement, wherein the measurement results comprise for each point of the multiple scattering points (402-412) of the target object (114) one or more observables.

[0180] EXAMPLE 26: The node of EXAMPLE 25, wherein the compute circuitry (902, 904) is configured to execute the method (1500) of any one of EXAMPLES 1 to 10 or 16 to 24. EXAMPLE 27: A node (110) of a cellular network (100), the node (110) comprising compute circuitry (802, 804) configured to:

[0181] - obtain (1410), from each of one or more radio nodes (106, 108) connected to the cellular network (100), a measurement report including measurement results of a sensing measurement employing sensing signals (120, 126, 126A, 126B, 126C) for sensing multiple scattering points (402-412) of a target object (114), the sensing signals (120, 126, 126A, 126B, 126C) being multiplexed with communication signaling of the cellular network (100), wherein the measurement results comprise for each point of the multiple scattering points (402-412) of the target object (114) one or more observables.

[0182] EXAMPLE 28: The node of EXAMPLE 27, wherein the node (110) is in a core network of the cellular network (100).

[0183] EXAMPLE 29: The node of EXAMPLE 27 or 28, wherein the compute circuitry (802, 804) is configured to execute the method (1400) of any one of EXAMPLES 11 to 24.

[0184] EXAMPLE 30: A system (100) comprising the node (106, 108) of EXAMPLE 25 or

[0185] EXAMPLE 26 and the node (110) of any one of EXAMPLES 27 to 29.

[0186] Although the invention has been shown and described with respect to certain preferred embodiments, equivalents and modifications will occur to others skilled in the art upon the reading and understanding of the specification. The present invention includes all such equivalents and modifications and is limited only by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

Claims1. A method for use in a node of a cellular network, the method comprising: providing a measurement report including measurement results of a sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a target object, the sensing signals being multiplexed with communication signaling of the cellular network, wherein the measurement results comprise one or more observables, the one or more observables being associated with each scattering point of multiple scattering points of the target object sensed with the sensing signals.

2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: obtaining a request to trigger the sensing measurement.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the request to trigger the sensing measurement comprises an indication of whether sensing signals for sensing multiple or single scattering points of the target object are to be employed.

4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: obtaining assistance information for the sensing measurement.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the assistance information is indicative of whether the sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object or a further sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a single scattering point of the target object is to be performed.

6. The method of claim 4, wherein the assistance information comprises at least one of:- a density of the multiple scattering points to be sensed,- an expected number of scattering points,- an expected distance of scattering points,- an expected arrangement of scattering points,- an expected target object size, and- a threshold configuration of single or multiple scattering points measurement.

7. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: providing a capability of a sensing receiver to perform the sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the capability of the sensing receiver is indicative of a maximum number of scattering points of the target object that can be sensed.

9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the node is a radio node including a sensing receiver, the method further comprising: obtaining a distance between the target object and the sensing receiver, performing the sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object or a further sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a single scattering point of the target object based on the distance between the target object and the sensing receiver.

10. The method of claim 1 , wherein the node is a radio node, the method further comprising: obtaining a test measurement result determined based on a test sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object,performing the sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object or a further sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a single scattering point of the target object based on the test measurement result.

11. The method of claim 1 , wherein the node is a radio node, the method further comprising: obtaining a size of the target object, performing the sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object or a further sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a single scattering point of the target object based on the size of the target object.

12. The method of claim 9, further comprising: providing a further measurement report including measurement results of the further sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a single scattering point of the target object, wherein the measurement results comprise for the single scattering point of the target object one or more observables for a group of multiple sensing signals scattered from the single scattering point.

13. The method of claim 12, wherein the node is a radio node including a sensing receiver configured to selectively perform the sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing multiple scattering points of the target object or the further sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a single scattering point of the target object, wherein the measurement report or the further measurement report is selectively provided based on the performed measurement.

14. The method of claim 1 , wherein each of the one or more observables is associated with a group of multiple sensing signals scattered from a specific one of the multiple scattering points of the target object, wherein a scattered sensing signal is assigned to a group of multiple sensing signals based on signal properties of the scattered sensing signal.

15. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more observables comprise for each scattering point a Radar Cross Section (RCS) value.

16. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more observables comprise, for each scattering point, at least one of reference signal received power, time of arrival, Doppler shift, angle of arrival, and angle of departure.

17. The method of claim 1 , wherein the measurement report includes for at least one of the multiple scattering points more observables than for another one of the multiple scattering points.

18. The method of claim 1 , wherein the one or more observables comprise, for each scattering point, an identifier of the scattering point.

19. A method for use in a node of a cellular network, the method comprising: obtaining a measurement report including measurement results of a sensing measurement employing sensing signals for sensing a target object, the sensing signals being multiplexed with communication signaling of the cellular network,wherein the measurement results comprise one or more observables, the one or more observables being associated with each scattering point of multiple scattering points of the target object sensed with the sensing signals.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the node is located in a core network of the cellular network and executes a management function for managing a plurality of sensing measurements at multiple radio nodes.

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