Method and apparatus for user equipment sensing in integrated sensing and communication system

Abstract

A user equipment sensing method in a wireless communication system, provided in an embodiment of the present invention, comprises the steps of: receiving sensing configuration information from a base station; and, on the basis of the sensing configuration information, performing user equipment-initiated sensing or base station indication-based sensing, wherein the sensing configuration information includes at least one from among sensing resource allocation information, sensing signal configuration information, and sensing requirements.

Description

Sensing method and device of a terminal in an integrated communication and sensing system

[0001] The present invention relates to wireless communication, and more specifically, to a sensing method and device of a terminal in a wireless communication system in which communication and sensing are integrated.

[0002] Recently, communication systems are required to go beyond simple data transmission and integrate sensing functions that detect and analyze the surrounding environment. In particular, in mobile communication systems beyond 5G, Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) is emerging as a key technology.

[0003] Conventional radar-based sensing systems had the problem of high implementation costs and low frequency resource efficiency due to the need for dedicated frequency bands and separate hardware. To solve this problem, ISAC technology, which utilizes wireless communication signals for sensing, has been proposed.

[0004] However, ISAC technologies proposed to date have primarily focused on base station-based sensing, and specific signaling methods for sensing performed by terminals are currently lacking. In particular, systematic signaling methods have not been defined to support various scenarios, such as when a terminal performs sensing independently out of necessity, when sensing is performed under the direction of a base station, or when multiple terminals cooperate to perform sensing.

[0005] As a result, it is currently difficult to efficiently control the allocation of sensing resources, the determination of sensing timing, and the reporting of sensing results. Furthermore, the signaling system for cooperative sensing among multiple terminals or for organic sensing control between base stations and terminals is also inadequate.

[0006] Based on the above-described aspects, embodiments of the present invention provide a signaling method for supporting various sensing scenarios of a terminal in an ISAC system.

[0007] Specifically, the present invention provides a systematic signaling procedure to support sensing performed by the terminal itself and sensing performed by the instructions of a base station, respectively.

[0008] In addition, the present invention provides a method for exchanging information between terminals to support monostatic, bistatic, and multistatic sensing performed by multiple terminals in cooperation.

[0009] In addition, the present invention defines a differentiated sensing QoS (Quality of Sensing) for each sensing scenario of a terminal and provides a signaling method to support it.

[0010] A method for performing sensing by a terminal in a wireless communication system provided by an embodiment of the present invention comprises: receiving sensing setting information from a base station; and performing terminal-specific sensing or base station instruction-based sensing based on the sensing setting information, wherein the sensing setting information includes at least one of resource allocation information for sensing, sensing signal configuration information, and sensing requirements.

[0011] Here, if the sensing is a terminal-self sensing, the method may include the step of transmitting a sensing signal to an object based on the sensing setting information without approval from the base station; and the step of receiving a reflected signal from the object.

[0012] Here, if the sensing is a sensing of the terminal itself, the method may include the steps of: transmitting a sensing approval request to the base station based on the sensing setting information; receiving a sensing approval from the base station; transmitting a sensing signal to an object based on the sensing approval; and receiving a reflected signal from the object.

[0013] Here, the sensing approval request includes at least one of sensing requirement information and sensing operation information, and the sensing operation information includes at least one of the sensing purpose, sensing resource amount, sensing time, and sensing duration information, and the sensing approval includes at least one of resource allocation information and sensing signal configuration information, and the resource allocation information includes at least one of frequency-time resource information, resource availability time, sensing signal transmission power, allowable transmission power range, and allowable maximum transmission power information, and the sensing signal configuration information may include at least one of the waveform, sequence, code, length, transmission period, and power control information of the sensing signal.

[0014] Herein, if the sensing is terminal-specific sensing and is bistatic sensing or multistatic sensing, the method includes the steps of: forming a group with at least one other terminal and exchanging sensing-related information; and transmitting a sensing signal to an object based on the sensing setting information, wherein a reflected signal from the object can be transmitted to the at least one other terminal.

[0015] Here, the sensing-related information includes at least one of terminal location information, sensing capability information, and preferred sensing parameter information, and the sensing capability information may include at least one of a supportable sensing requirement level, receiver performance, and sensing signal processing capability.

[0016] Here, if the sensing is base station instruction-based sensing, the method may include the step of receiving sensing instruction information including the sensing setting information; and the step of transmitting a sensing signal to an object based on the sensing instruction information.

[0017] Here, the reflected signal from the object can be transmitted to the base station.

[0018] Here, when multiple terminals participate in the sensing, the sensing setting information further includes scheduling information for scheduling the transmission of sensing signals of the multiple terminals, and the sensing signal of each terminal can be transmitted to the object based on the scheduling information.

[0019] Here, the sensing setting information further includes result reporting related information and may further include the step of receiving a reflected signal from the object; and the step of reporting a sensing result derived from the reflected signal to the base station based on the result reporting related information.

[0020] Here, when multiple terminals participate in the sensing, the sensing setting information further includes scheduling information for scheduling the transmission of sensing signals of the multiple terminals, and the sensing signal of each terminal can be transmitted to the object based on the scheduling information.

[0021] Here, the sensing result is transmitted in an original form or a processed form, the processed form includes a predefined table or codebook form, and the size or format of the information displaying the sensing result can be determined based on the sensing requirements.

[0022] Here, the sensing setting information can be received through system information, RRC (Radio Resource Control) settings, DCI (Downlink Control Information), or MAC CE (Medium Access Control Control Element).

[0023] Here, the sensing requirements include at least one of accuracy, resolution, latency, reliability, and update rate, wherein the accuracy includes at least one of distance measurement accuracy, speed measurement accuracy, location measurement accuracy, and direction measurement accuracy, the resolution includes at least one of distance resolution, location resolution, direction resolution, and speed resolution, the latency includes at least one of sensing processing latency and result transmission latency, and the reliability may include at least one of sensing success rate and false positive rate.

[0024] A terminal in a wireless communication system provided by an embodiment of the present invention comprises a transceiver; and a processor, wherein the processor is configured to receive sensing setting information from a base station and to perform terminal-specific sensing or base station instruction-based sensing based on the sensing setting information, and the sensing setting information includes at least one of resource allocation information for sensing, sensing signal configuration information, and sensing requirements.

[0025] Here, if the sensing is a terminal-specific sensing, the processor may be configured to transmit a sensing signal to an object based on the sensing setting information without approval from the base station and to receive a reflected signal from the object.

[0026] Here, if the sensing is a sensing of the terminal itself, the processor may be configured to transmit a sensing approval request to the base station based on the sensing setting information, receive a sensing approval from the base station, transmit a sensing signal to an object based on the sensing approval, and receive a reflected signal from the object.

[0027] Here, the sensing approval request includes at least one of sensing requirement information and sensing operation information, and the sensing operation information includes at least one of the sensing purpose, sensing resource amount, sensing time, and sensing duration information, and the sensing approval includes at least one of resource allocation information and sensing signal configuration information, and the resource allocation information includes at least one of frequency-time resource information, resource availability time, sensing signal transmission power, allowable transmission power range, and allowable maximum transmission power information, and the sensing signal configuration information may include at least one of the waveform, sequence, code, length, transmission period, and power control information of the sensing signal.

[0028] Here, if the sensing is terminal-specific sensing and is bistatic sensing or multistatic sensing, the processor is configured to form a group with at least one other terminal and exchange sensing-related information, and to transmit a sensing signal to an object based on the sensing setting information, and the reflected signal from the object can be transmitted to the at least one other terminal.

[0029] Here, the sensing-related information includes at least one of terminal location information, sensing capability information, and preferred sensing parameter information, and the sensing capability information may include at least one of a supportable sensing requirement level, receiver performance, and sensing signal processing capability.

[0030] Here, if the sensing is base station instruction-based sensing, the processor may be configured to receive sensing instruction information including the sensing setting information and to transmit a sensing signal to an object based on the sensing instruction information.

[0031] Here, the reflected signal from the object can be transmitted to the base station.

[0032] Here, when multiple terminals participate in the sensing, the sensing setting information further includes scheduling information for scheduling the transmission of sensing signals of the multiple terminals, and the sensing signal of each terminal can be transmitted to the object based on the scheduling information.

[0033] Here, the processor may be configured to receive a reflected signal from the object and report a sensing result derived from the reflected signal to the base station based on the result reporting information, if the sensing setting information further includes information related to result reporting.

[0034] Here, when multiple terminals participate in the sensing, the sensing setting information further includes scheduling information for scheduling the transmission of sensing signals of the multiple terminals, and the sensing signal of each terminal can be transmitted to the object based on the scheduling information.

[0035] Here, the sensing result is transmitted in an original form or a processed form, the processed form includes a predefined table or codebook form, and the size or format of the information displaying the sensing result can be determined based on the sensing requirements.

[0036] Here, the sensing setting information can be received through system information, RRC (Radio Resource Control) settings, DCI (Downlink Control Information), or MAC CE (Medium Access Control Control Element).

[0037] Here, the sensing requirements include at least one of accuracy, resolution, latency, reliability, and update rate, wherein the accuracy includes at least one of distance measurement accuracy, speed measurement accuracy, location measurement accuracy, and direction measurement accuracy, the resolution includes at least one of distance resolution, location resolution, direction resolution, and speed resolution, the latency includes at least one of sensing processing latency and result transmission latency, and the reliability may include at least one of sensing success rate and false positive rate.

[0038] According to embodiments of the present invention, efficient operation of the sensing function is possible by systematically controlling the sensing of the terminal in various sensing scenarios. Furthermore, by controlling the sensing of the terminal differently according to sensing QoS requirements, the performance requirements of each sensing application can be effectively satisfied. In addition, sensing through cooperation among multiple terminals is possible, thereby improving the accuracy and reliability of the sensing.

[0039] The following drawings are prepared to illustrate a specific example of the present specification. The names of specific devices or specific signals / messages / fields described in the drawings are presented as examples, and therefore the technical features of the present specification are not limited to the specific names used in the drawings below.

[0040] Figure 1 is a configuration diagram of a communication system to which the present invention is applied.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a communication node according to the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an AI / ML-based RAN intelligence framework according to the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 4 illustrates an AI / ML framework that can be applied to embodiments of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the basic configuration of the ISAC system.

[0045] Figures 6a, 6b, and 6c are diagrams illustrating various structures for transmitting and receiving sensing signals.

[0046] FIGS. 7a and 7b are diagrams illustrating a signaling procedure in terminal self-sensing based on the needs of the terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIGS. 8a and 8b are diagrams illustrating the signaling procedure of bistatic and multistatic sensing in terminal-self sensing according to the needs of the terminal in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIGS. 9a, 9b, 9c and 9d are diagrams illustrating a signaling procedure in sensing of a terminal according to base station instructions as needed by a base station, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a terminal in a case where approval from a base station is unnecessary in terminal self-sensing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a terminal when approval from a base station is required in the terminal's own sensing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a terminal sensing by base station instructions according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a terminal when a single terminal transmits a sensing signal according to a base station instruction in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention and a reflected signal of an object is transmitted to the base station.

[0053] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a terminal when a plurality of terminals transmit sensing signals according to base station instructions in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention and reflected signals of an object are transmitted to the base station.

[0054] The present invention is susceptible to various modifications and may have various embodiments; specific embodiments are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail in the detailed description. However, this is not intended to limit the invention to specific embodiments, and it should be understood that the invention includes all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention. Similar reference numerals have been used for similar components in the description of each drawing.

[0055] Terms such as first, second, A, B, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components shall not be limited by said terms. These terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, the first component may be named the second component, and similarly, the second component may be named the first component. The term "and / or" includes a combination of a plurality of related described items or any of a plurality of related described items.

[0056] In embodiments of the present invention, "at least one of A and B" may mean "at least one of A or B" or "at least one of one or more combinations of A and B". Additionally, in embodiments of the present invention, "at least one of A and B" may mean "at least one of A or B" or "at least one of one or more combinations of A and B".

[0057] In the embodiments of the present application, (re)transmission may mean "transmission," "retransmission," or "transmission and retransmission"; (re)setting may mean "setting," "resetting," or "setting and resetting"; (re)connection may mean "connection," "reconnection," or "connection and reconnection"; and (re)connection may mean "connection," "reconnection," or "connection and reconnection".

[0058] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0059] The terms used in this application are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "comprising" or "having" are intended to specify the presence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0060] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and should not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in this application.

[0061] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the attached drawings. In order to facilitate an overall understanding of the present invention, the same reference numerals are used for identical components in the drawings, and redundant descriptions of identical components are omitted.

[0062] The communication network to which the embodiments according to the present invention are applied is not limited to the details described below, and the embodiments according to the present invention may be applied to various communication networks. Here, the term "communication network" may be used interchangeably with "communication system."

[0063] Throughout the specification, the network may include, for example, 5G mobile communication networks such as 5G and 5G-Advance, 4G mobile communication networks such as LTE (Long Term Evolution) / LTE-Advanced, next-generation wireless LANs such as WiFi 6 / 6E, 6G mobile communication networks, satellite communication networks, etc.

[0064]

[0065] Throughout the specification, the terminal may be referred to as a terminal, access terminal, mobile terminal, station, subscriber station, mobile station, portable subscriber station, node, device, etc.

[0066] Here, desktop computers, laptop computers, tablet PCs, wireless phones, mobile phones, smartphones, smart watches, smart glasses, e-book readers, PMPs (portable multimedia players), portable game consoles, navigation devices, digital cameras, DMB (digital multimedia broadcasting) players, digital audio recorders, digital audio players, digital picture recorders, digital picture players, digital video recorders, digital video players, automobiles, robots, drones, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can be used.

[0067] Throughout the specification, base stations may be referred to as Node B, evolved Node B, gNodeB, BTS (base transceiver station), radio base station, radio transceiver, access point, access node, roadside unit (RSU), DU (digital unit), CDU (cloud digital unit), RRH (radio remote head), RU (radio unit), TP (transmission point), TRP (transmission and reception point), relay node, etc.

[0068] In the following, embodiments according to the present invention are described with reference to a 3GPP 5G NR (New Radio) mobile communication system, and prior art documents defining the operation of a 3GPP 5G NR mobile communication system may be referenced. The names of specific devices or specific signals / messages / fields described in the drawings are presented as examples, and therefore the technical features of this specification are not limited to the specific names used in the drawings below.

[0069] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a wireless communication system to which embodiments of the present invention can be applied.

[0070] Referring to FIG. 1, a communication system (100) may include a plurality of communication nodes (110-1, 110-2, 110-3, 120-1, 120-2, 130-1, 130-2, 130-3, 130-4, 130-5, 130-6). The plurality of communication nodes may support 4G communication (e.g., LTE (long term evolution), LTE-A (advanced)), 5G communication (e.g., 5G, 5G-Advanced), etc., as defined in 3GPP (3rd generation partnership project) standards. 4G communication may be performed in a frequency band of 6 GHz or lower, and 5G communication may be performed not only in a frequency band of 6 GHz or lower but also in a frequency band of 6 GHz or higher.

[0071] For example, for 4G communication and 5G communication, multiple communication nodes can support communication protocols based on CDMA (code division multiple access), WCDMA (wideband CDMA), TDMA (time division multiple access), FDMA (frequency division multiple access), OFDMA (orthogonal frequency division multiple access), Filtered OFDM, CP (cyclic prefix)-OFDM, DFT-s-OFDM (discrete Fourier transform-spread-OFDM), OFDM (orthogonal frequency division multiplexing), SC (single carrier)-FDMA, NOMA (Non-orthogonal Multiple Access), GFDM (generalized frequency division multiplexing), FBMC (filter bank multi-carrier) based communication protocol, UFMC (universal filtered multi-carrier) based communication protocol, SDMA (Space Division Multiple Access) based communication protocol, etc.

[0072] Additionally, the communication system (100) may further include a core network (not shown). If the communication system (100) supports 4G communication, the core network may include an S-GW (serving-gateway), a P-GW (PDN (packet data network)-gateway), an MME (mobility management entity), etc. If the communication system (100) supports 5G communication, the core network may include a UPF (user plane function), an SMF (session management function), an AMF (access and mobility management function), etc.

[0073] Meanwhile, each of the plurality of communication nodes (110-1, 110-2, 110-3, 120-1, 120-2, 130-1, 130-2, 130-3, 130-4, 130-5, 130-6) constituting the communication system (100) may have a structure described later in FIG. 2. In addition, as an example, the communication system (100) described above may be applied not only to 5G communication but also to subsequent next-generation communication systems (e.g., 6G), and is not limited to a specific form.

[0074] Multiple base stations (110-1, 110-2, 110-3) can each form a macro cell, and base stations (120-1, 120-2) can each form a small cell. For example, the cell coverage of the first base station (110-1) may include the fourth base station (120-1), the third terminal (130-3), and the fourth terminal (130-4). The cell coverage of the second base station (110-2) may include the second terminal (130-2), the fourth terminal (130-4), and the fifth terminal (130-5). The cell coverage of the third base station (110-3) may include the fifth base station (120-2), the fourth terminal (130-4), the fifth terminal (130-5), and the sixth terminal (130-6).

[0075] In particular, each base station may operate as part of a Radio Access Network (RAN) domain that includes AI / ML (Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning) functions. According to an embodiment of the present invention, each base station may include at least one of ML pre-training, ML training, and AI / ML inference functions, and these functions may be flexibly implemented within the base station. For example, base stations forming a macro cell may include all three functions, and base stations forming a small cell may include only the AI / ML inference function.

[0076] Each of the multiple base stations may operate in different frequency bands or in the same frequency band. Each of the multiple base stations may be connected to one another via an ideal backhaul link or a non-ideal backhaul link, and may exchange information with one another via an ideal backhaul link or a non-ideal backhaul link.

[0077] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of each communication node constituting the communication system of FIG. 1.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 2, the communication node (200) may include at least one processor (210), a memory (220), and a transceiver (230) that is connected to a network to perform communication. Additionally, the communication node (200) may further include an input interface device (240), an output interface device (250), a storage device (260), etc. Each component included in the communication node (200) may be connected by a bus (270) to communicate with one another.

[0079] However, each component included in the communication node (200) may be connected via individual interfaces or individual buses centered around the processor (210), rather than via a common bus (270). For example, the processor (210) may be connected via a dedicated interface to at least one of a memory (220), a transmission / reception device (230), an input interface device (240), an output interface device (250), and a storage device (260).

[0080] The processor (210) can execute a program command stored in at least one of the memory (220) and the storage device (260). The processor (210) may be a central processing unit (CPU), a neural processing unit (NPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or a dedicated processor on which methods according to embodiments of the present invention are performed.

[0081] The processor (210) may be configured to execute AI / ML functions according to the present invention. For example, program instructions for ML pre-training, ML training, or AI / ML inference functions may be stored in memory (220) and executed by the processor (210). The processor (210) may include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), or a dedicated processor neural network processing unit (NPU) for AI / ML computation.

[0082] Each of the memory (220) and the storage device (260) may be composed of at least one of a volatile storage medium and a non-volatile storage medium. For example, the memory (220) may be composed of at least one of read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM). The storage device (260) may store AI / ML model parameters, training data, inference results, etc.

[0083] The transmitting and receiving device (230) may provide an interface for wired or wireless communication. For example, the transmitting and receiving device (230) may communicate with other network entities through a fronthole interface.

[0084] Meanwhile, embodiments of the present invention may be performed by AI (Artificial Intelligence) machine learning or deep learning technology.

[0085] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a functional framework for RAN intelligence utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) / machine learning (ML) that can be applied to embodiments of the present invention.

[0086] Referring to Fig. 3, RAN intelligence with AI / ML enabled can be considered. For example, specific AI / ML algorithms can be configured in various forms and are not limited to a specific form.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 3, the data collection unit (310) may be an entity that provides input data to the model training unit (320) and the model inference unit (330). For example, the input data may be at least one of a measurement value by another network entity, a feedback value by terminals, and a feedback value for the output of an AI / ML model, but is not limited thereto. Here, the training data provided by the data collection unit (310) to the model training unit (320) may be data provided for the AI / ML model training function. Additionally, the inference data provided by the data collection unit (310) to the model inference unit (330) may be data provided for the AI / ML model inference function. Here, the model training unit (320) may be an entity that performs training, validation, and testing of the AI / ML model, thereby providing performance metrics for the AI / ML model. The model training unit (320) can provide and update an AI / ML model to the model inference unit (330), and the model inference unit (330) can provide model performance feedback to the model training unit (320). That is, the model training unit (320) can perform training on the AI / ML model through the feedback from the model inference unit (330) and provide the updated AI / ML model back to the model inference unit (330). In addition, the model inference unit (330) can receive inference data from the data collection unit (310), generate an output through the received AI / ML model, and provide it to an actor (340). Here, the actor (340) may be a subject that performs an action according to the output, and the action performed by the actor (340) may be fed back to the data collection unit (310) and provided to the model training unit (320) as training data.

[0088] In other words, data for learning (or training) an AI / ML model is provided so that the AI / ML model is learned and built, and inference data is provided to the built AI / ML model to produce output, thereby enabling AI / ML model-based operations to be performed.

[0089] FIG. 4 illustrates an AI / ML framework that can be applied to embodiments of the present invention.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 4, the AI / ML framework (400) may be composed of a data collection block (410), a model training block (420), a model management block (430), a model inference block (440), and a model storage block (450). FIG. 4 is merely an example of an AI / ML framework, and various entities / functions / blocks not disclosed in FIG. 4 may be added to the AI / ML framework, and at least some of the blocks disclosed in FIG. 4 may be omitted.

[0091] The data collection block (410) can be performed in the LCM for various purposes such as model training, model inference, model monitoring, model selection, and model updating. The data collection block (410) of FIG. 4 may be a block that conceptually represents data sources and entities holding data for training, inference, and monitoring. Although the data collection block (410) of FIG. 4 is represented as a single block, data collection for training, inference, and monitoring may have various characteristics and requirements. Additionally, the timescale of training and monitoring (e.g., real-time or offline) may require individual consideration.

[0092] Regarding training, training data may be initially generated in the network and UEs. The initial data may be collected (or transmitted) by one or more data collection entities. Data collection entities may be owned by various entities, such as internal or external UEs / chipset / network vendors, network operators, and positioning service providers.

[0093] With respect to inference, inference data for the UE-side model and / or the UE portion of both-sided models may be transmitted or provided directly from the UE. Inference data for the network-side model and / or the network portion of both-sided models may be transmitted or provided directly from the network, or may be transmitted from the UE.

[0094] Regarding monitoring, monitoring data for UE-side monitoring may be transmitted or provided directly from the UE. Monitoring data for network-side monitoring may be transmitted or provided directly from the network, or it may be transmitted from the UE.

[0095] Data collection for real-time operations such as real-time model monitoring, switching, and selection can incur significant signaling overhead. Conversely, infrequent data collection to reduce signaling overhead can result in latency for real-time model monitoring, switching, and selection.

[0096] The model training block (420) may include both initial training and model updates. Generally, model training can be divided into model training conducted alongside model development and subsequent training for the developed model. The model training block (420) in FIG. 4 is represented as a single block for simplification.

[0097] Depending on the location of the dataset and / or the region where the model (or untrained model) is located, training may be performed internally within the network or by external entities such as UEs, chipset / network vendors, network operators, and positioning service providers. Since AI / ML model development is generally an iterative process of data collection, model design, training, and performance validation, careful implementation considerations regarding power consumption, hardware scope, latency, and concurrency with other layer functions are required for AI / ML model development.

[0098] When large-scale field data is collected from a data collection entity, the vendor responsible for model development must have access to said data. Typically, model development is an offline engineering process performed by an engineering team that requires access to large datasets collected in the field. In other words, decisions regarding model structure, device-specific optimizations, and the number of models to develop (e.g., generalizable versus specific models) may depend on the large-scale field data. If the vendor owning the data collection entity is different from the vendor responsible for model development, the vendor responsible for model development must have access to the dataset. This can be achieved through explicit dataset sharing or by providing access to the collected dataset. Dataset sharing / access may be relevant to two-sided models where both the gNB vendor and the UE / chipset vendor must participate in the model development and training processes.

[0099] After the model is developed and trained, the model can be stored in a model repository or a model storage block (450) and delivered to a target device. The model can be compiled into an executable file for inference. Here, various methods may exist depending on the location where the model is trained, the model storage / delivery format, the location where the model is hosted before delivery, etc.

[0100] The model inference block (440) is a function that provides AI / ML model inference output, such as prediction or decision. The model inference block (440) may also provide model performance feedback to the model training block (420). The model inference block (440) may be responsible for data preparation, such as data preprocessing, cleaning, formatting, and transformation, based on the inference data delivered by the data collection block (410).

[0101] Model management may include functionality / model monitoring, selection, activation, deactivation, switching, fallback, etc. FIG. 4 illustrates a single model management block (430), but not all aspects of model management may be implemented in a single location. Some aspects of model monitoring, activation / deactivation, selection, switching, and fallback may be performed on the network side, and other aspects may be performed on the UE side. With regard to model selection, activation, deactivation, switching, and fallback for UE-side models and both-side models, mechanisms related to decisions by the network initiated by the network, mechanisms related to decisions by the network initiated by the UE and requested by the network, mechanisms related to decisions by the UE that are event-triggered by the network and where the UE's decision is reported to the network, mechanisms related to decisions by the UE that are UE-autonomous and where the UE's decision is reported to the network, and mechanisms related to decisions by the UE that are UE-autonomous and where the UE's decision is not reported to the network may be considered.

[0102] In the following, Integrated Sensing and Communication (ISAC) related to embodiments of the present invention is described.

[0103] Radar is the most representative example of wireless sensing technology. RADAR stands for Radio Detection And Ranging and refers to an information system that detects objects and determines their direction, distance, and speed by measuring the reflected waves that return after radiated electromagnetic waves strike an object. Radar can detect how far away an object is and in what direction and at what speed it is moving from a considerable distance away. Furthermore, because it uses radio waves to detect objects, it has the advantage of operating effectively even in atmospheric conditions such as rain, fog, snow, and smoke, as well as maintaining the same functionality at night in complete darkness. However, such radar operation requires the allocation of a dedicated frequency with a significant bandwidth, as well as the installation and operation of dedicated transmitters and receivers. This acts as a limitation in terms of the efficient use of frequency resources and system construction costs.

[0104] Recently, active technical discussions have been underway regarding methods that integrate communication and sensing into a single system, offering significant advantages over existing mobile communication systems and sensor networks in terms of investment efficiency and frequency resource utilization. At 3GPP, a technology is being discussed under the name ISAC (Integrated Sensing and Communication) that integrates communication and sensing functions to perform both functions simultaneously within a single system.

[0105] ISAC technology is expected to be fully realized with the future development of 6G networks. ISAC primarily uses millimeter wave (mmWave) and terahertz (THz) bands and is known to require advanced beamforming and new waveform design.

[0106] 3GPP defines 5G wireless sensing as "a 5G system function that uses NR RF signals to obtain information about the characteristics of the environment and / or objects within the environment (e.g., shape, size, orientation, speed, location, distance between objects, or relative movement, etc.)."

[0107] ISAC technology is expected to enable new services and use cases across various industries. For instance, it can be utilized for object detection and tracking, environmental monitoring, and human motion monitoring, and can be applied to diverse fields such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), smart homes, V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything), and factories. Specifically, in road environments, it can improve traffic safety by detecting the movements of pedestrians or vehicles, while in smart factories, it can enhance operational efficiency and safety by tracking the real-time locations of robots and workers. Furthermore, in smart homes, it can be used as a security system to provide personalized services by analyzing residents' behavioral patterns or to detect intruders.

[0108] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the basic configuration of the ISAC system.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 5, the base station (520) can communicate with the UE (510) via a communication link and simultaneously detect an object (540) through a sensing path (550-1, 550-2). Additionally, the terminal (510) can also detect an object (540) through a sensing path (560-1, 560-2). For example, a base station installed on a roadside can detect pedestrians or obstacles on the road while communicating with a terminal for an autonomous vehicle. Alternatively, a base station inside a factory can determine the location of a worker while communicating with a work robot. In this way, the ISAC can perform communication and sensing functions simultaneously as a single system, and both the base station and the terminal can perform the sensing function.

[0110] The information obtainable through sensing includes not only the basic location, velocity, and acceleration of an object, but also its size, shape, and material properties. This diverse information can be utilized according to the specific application field. For example, on smart roads, vehicle speed and direction information can be used to predict collision risks, while in smart factories, worker posture information can be analyzed to monitor work safety.

[0111] Figures 6a, 6b, and 6c are diagrams illustrating the specific concept of transmitting and receiving sensing signals.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 6a, in a monostatic method, a single sensing transceiver (605) transmits a sensing signal (650), and the same sensing transceiver (605) receives a reflected signal (655) reflected from an object (620). This is a principle similar to how a bat emits ultrasound and perceives its surroundings through the reflected waves. For example, this method can be used to detect visitors with a single sensor installed at the entrance of a smart home, or to confirm the entry of a vehicle with a sensor at the entrance of a parking lot. This method has the advantage of a simple structure and easy installation, but there may be limitations in accuracy as information can only be obtained from a specific angle of the object.

[0113] Referring to FIG. 6b, in the bistatic method, a sensing signal (660) transmitted by a sensing transmitter (610) is reflected from an object (620) and received as a reflected signal (665) at a sensing receiver 1 (630) at a different location. This is similar to the principle of shining a light from one side of a soccer field and observing a player's shadow from the other. For example, it can be effectively utilized to more accurately track the movement of a robot arm in a factory or to detect pedestrians in blind spots on a road. This method allows for more accurate location estimation because it can detect objects from different angles.

[0114] Referring to FIG. 6c, in a multistatic method, a sensing signal (670) transmitted by a sensing transmitter (610) is reflected from an object (620) and received as a reflected signal (675, 680) at sensing receivers (630, 640) at various locations. This is similar to multiple CCTVs capturing a scene simultaneously from various angles. Through this multistatic structure, the location, speed, and direction of an object can be determined more accurately using measurement information. For example, it can be used to simultaneously track the movement of multiple vehicles and pedestrians at a complex intersection, or to precisely monitor the locations of multiple workers and equipment in an extensive factory workplace.

[0115] These various sensing methods can be appropriately selected based on the characteristics of the application or the required accuracy. For example, monostatic methods may be cost-effective for basic applications such as simple occupancy detection or access monitoring. On the other hand, multistatic methods may be more suitable for situations requiring high accuracy, such as collision avoidance in autonomous vehicles or precision control of industrial robots. Additionally, constraints on the installation environment and cost efficiency can also be important considerations when selecting a sensing method.

[0116] In this invention, 'Sensing QoS (Quality of Sensing)' or 'Sensing Requirements' are newly proposed to quantitatively define the quality of the sensing function in a system where communication and sensing are integrated. The Sensing QoS proposed in the embodiments of this invention is broadly defined in terms of five parameters: accuracy, resolution, latency, reliability, and update rate. Each Sensing QoS parameter is classified into high (Sensing) QoS levels, medium (Sensing) QoS levels, and low (Sensing) QoS levels, and each level is defined by a specific Sensing QoS (or Sensing Requirement) value. In actual ISACs, a number of various levels, ranging from fewer to more, can be defined depending on the situation. This is explained in detail below.

[0117] Various ISAC use cases are being discussed at 3GPP. These use cases include diverse application scenarios such as intruder detection in smart homes, pedestrian / animal detection on highways, rainfall monitoring, sensing at crosswalks, UAV flight trajectory tracking, and AGV collision avoidance in factories. Each of these use cases may require different levels of sensing performance.

[0118] For example, UAV collision avoidance requires a position accuracy of 1-2 m, a speed accuracy of 1-2 m / s, and a latency of 100-1000 ms. AMR collision avoidance in factories requires a position accuracy within 1 m, a speed accuracy of 1 m / s, a latency of 500 ms or less, and an update rate of 20 Hz. On the other hand, intruder detection in smart homes requires a position accuracy within 10 m and a latency of 1000 ms or less, as well as a missed detection rate of less than 5% and a false alarm rate of less than 2%.

[0119] The high QoS level is intended to support use cases requiring high-precision sensing, such as industrial applications, providing, for example, a distance accuracy of ±0.1m and a processing latency of 5ms or less. The medium QoS level is intended to support general use cases, such as UAV / vehicle applications, providing, for example, a distance accuracy of ±0.5m and a processing latency of 20ms or less. The low QoS level is intended to support use cases requiring low precision, such as presence detection applications, providing, for example, a distance accuracy of ±1.0m and a processing latency of 50ms or less.

[0120] In addition, considering use cases where continuous monitoring of a wide area is important rather than sensing accuracy, such as rainfall monitoring or traffic management at tourist destinations, the QoS system of the present invention includes the update rate as a key parameter. For example, at high QoS levels, a short update cycle of 10ms is provided to support applications requiring real-time performance, at medium QoS levels, a longer update cycle of 50ms is used, and at low QoS levels, a long update cycle of 100ms is used to efficiently utilize system resources and energy.

[0121] To support use cases requiring cooperation among multiple sensing entities, such as vehicle maneuvering and navigation or UAV intrusion detection, the system of the present invention includes resource allocation information sharing between adjacent cells and a cooperative sensing mechanism. In particular, at high QoS levels, high-accuracy sensing performance can be provided by utilizing diversity techniques through multiple receivers.

[0122] As such, the sensing QoS system of the present invention provides a framework that comprehensively accommodates the requirements of various use cases while systematically classifying and managing them. Through this, it is possible to ensure an appropriate level of sensing performance suitable for the requirements of each application while efficiently utilizing limited system resources.

[0123] Sensing QoS can be broadly defined in terms of parameters such as accuracy, resolution, latency, reliability, and update rate, as shown in .

[0124]

[0125] Meanwhile, each parameter defined in Sensing QoS can be divided into multiple QoS levels as shown in . In the example in , each QoS parameter can be divided into 'High QoS Level', 'Medium QoS Level', and 'Low QoS Level'. is an example of QoS levels, and depending on the various applications of ISAC, performance indicators required for the application can be configured and required values ​​for each performance indicator can be defined to create a wider variety of QoS levels.

[0126]

[0127] For example, in the case of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) within a factory, a distance measurement error of about 50 cm is acceptable because the cargo transport speed is relatively low (around 5 km / h) and the surrounding environment is well controlled. Additionally, a processing delay of 20 ms corresponds to a distance of 3 cm traveled by an AGV moving at 5 km / h, enabling safe operation.

[0128] The low QoS level guarantees minimum sensing performance, providing distance accuracy of ±1.0m, speed accuracy of ±5km / h, and angle accuracy of ±5 degrees, while ensuring a processing latency of less than 50ms and a sensing success rate of over 95%. This level is suitable for applications requiring relatively low precision, such as environmental monitoring or presence detection.

[0129] For example, in applications such as detecting the presence of vehicles in a parking lot or counting the number of people inside a building, a distance measurement error of about 1 m is acceptable, and a processing delay of 50 ms is not a problem. This is because in such applications, only the presence of an object and approximate location information are required, rather than precise position or speed.

[0130] In the system of the present invention, resource allocation can be differentiated according to the QoS level of each sensing session. At a high QoS level, dedicated frequency-time resources are allocated, maximum transmit power is used, high-frequency sensing is performed with short pulse periods, and diversity through multiple receivers is utilized. At an intermediate QoS level, semi-dedicated frequency-time resources are allocated, intermediate transmit power is used, and regular sensing is performed with appropriate pulse periods. At a low QoS level, shared frequency-time resources are allocated, minimum required transmit power is used, and periodic sensing is performed with long pulse periods.

[0131] In addition, the system of the present invention can dynamically adjust the QoS level of each sensing session according to network load conditions or channel conditions. For example, in situations where network traffic is congested, the QoS level can be temporarily lowered to ensure system stability, and even when channel conditions deteriorate, the QoS level can be lowered to maintain minimum sensing performance. Conversely, when spare resources become available or channel conditions improve, the QoS level can be raised to provide a higher level of sensing performance.

[0132] In the event of an emergency, the necessary sensing performance can be guaranteed by raising the QoS level of the relevant session to a high QoS, even if the QoS level of other sensing sessions is temporarily lowered. For example, if an autonomous vehicle detects an emergency collision risk, resources from sensing sessions with low QoS levels, such as surrounding environment monitoring or parking management, can be temporarily reclaimed and allocated to sensing for collision avoidance.

[0133] Meanwhile, in an embodiment of the present invention, the amount of information when reporting a sensing result may vary depending on the sensing QoS (or sensing QoS level). Specifically, the number of bits representing the sensing result may change depending on the resolution and latency required for sensing. The number of bits of such sensing result reporting information may also affect the latency of the transmission of the sensing result. The sensing result reporting information may have a name such as, for example, 'Sensing Report Indicator (SRI),' and the format of the SRI may be set according to the sensing QoS.

[0134] For example, assume a case where a terminal senses the location of an object within a specific sensing area. If a low QoS level of resolution is required for the sensing, it may be sufficient to divide the entire sensing area into four zones and indicate the zone where the object is located. In this case, the sensing result can be represented using only 2-bit information specifying one of the four zones. This may, for example, satisfy the distance measurement accuracy of ±1.0m and a processing delay of 50ms or less defined at the low QoS level in . Depending on the sensing resolution, the number of bits for the sensing result report can be set to 2 bits, thereby minimizing the number of bits required for transmitting the sensing result.

[0135] On the other hand, if high QoS level resolution is required for the sensing, the entire sensing area can be divided more finely into more zones, for example, 16 zones, to represent the location of the object more precisely. In this case, 4 bits of information are required to specify one of the 16 zones for the sensing result. This may be, for example, to satisfy the distance measurement accuracy of ±0.1m defined at the high QoS level in . As such, although the number of bits to be transmitted increases to satisfy higher sensing resolution, more precise location information can be provided.

[0136] As shown in the example above, in the embodiment of the present invention, by differentiating the number of bits representing the sensing result according to the resolution level of the sensing QoS, the system can provide optimal performance suitable for the characteristics of each application. For example, when detecting the presence of pedestrians on a crosswalk, a 2-bit representation with a low QoS level may be sufficient, but when determining the location of a precision robot in a factory, 4 bits may be set to represent the sensing result according to the sensing QoS level with a high QoS level.

[0137] The variable bit allocation method for reporting these sensing results also affects the sensing processing delay and result transmission delay defined in . That is, while fast transmission is possible using a small number of bits at low QoS levels, relatively longer transmission times are required at high QoS levels because more bits must be transmitted.

[0138] Various embodiments in which a terminal performs sensing through a base station and signaling are described below.

[0139] Sensing by a terminal can be broadly classified into terminal-specific sensing, where the terminal itself senses as needed, and sensing based on instructions from the base station, where the base station senses as needed.

[0140] In FIGS. 7 and 8 below, a signaling procedure for cases where sensing is performed due to the terminal's sensing needs is described, and in FIG. 9, a signaling procedure for cases where the terminal performs sensing based on base station instructions due to the base station's sensing needs is described.

[0141] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a signaling procedure in terminal self-sensing according to the needs of the terminal in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0142] Specifically, FIG. 7a illustrates a case where approval from a base station is not required, and FIG. 7b illustrates a case where approval from a base station is required.

[0143] First, referring to FIG. 7a, the base station (gNB) transmits sensing setting information to the terminal (UE) (701). This sensing setting information can be transmitted via System Information, RRC (Radio Resource Control) settings, DCI (Downlink Control Information), or MAC CE (Medium Access Control Control Element).

[0144] The above sensing configuration information may include at least one of sensing resource allocation information, sensing signal configuration information, and sensing QoS requirement information. The sensing resource allocation information includes a frequency range, a section where the sensing signal can be transmitted, the sensing signal transmission power, a range of permissible transmission power, and permissible maximum transmission power. The sensing signal configuration information includes the waveform of the sensing signal, the modulation method of the sensing signal, a sequence or code, the duration of each sensing signal, and the time interval between consecutive sensing signals. The sensing QoS requirement information may include the distance / speed / angle measurement accuracy, distance / speed resolution, sensing processing and result transmission delay time, sensing success rate and false detection rate, sensing update cycle, and the sensing QoS level described in Table 2.

[0145] After receiving such sensing setting information, the terminal transmits a sensing signal based on the sensing setting information at the necessary time to perform sensing itself (703).

[0146] Figure 7b shows the procedure for cases where approval from a base station is required.

[0147] The base station first transmits sensing configuration information described in FIG. 7a to the terminal (711). When the terminal intends to perform sensing, it transmits a sensing approval request to the base station (713). This approval request may include at least one of sensing QoS requirement information and sensing operation information. The sensing operation information may include at least one of a specific purpose (or intention) of sensing, a required amount of sensing resources, a preferred sensing start time, and an expected sensing duration.

[0148] Meanwhile, the base station reviews the terminal's sensing approval request and, if it approves the sensing, sends a sensing approval message (715).

[0149] This sensing approval message may further include resource allocation information and sensing signal configuration information in addition to the sensing approval instruction.

[0150] The above resource allocation information may include the exact location of the frequency-time resource, the available time of the resource, the power of the sensing signal transmission, the range of the allowable transmission power, and the maximum allowable transmission power. The sensing signal configuration information may include the waveform of the sensing signal, the sequence or code to be used, the length and transmission period of the sensing signal, and parameters for power control. A terminal that receives such a sensing approval may perform sensing by transmitting a sensing signal based on the sensing approval information (717).

[0151] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the signaling procedure of bistatic and multistatic sensing in terminal-self sensing according to the needs of the terminal in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0152] Specifically, FIG. 8a illustrates the case of bistatic sensing in terminal-self sensing, and FIG. 8b illustrates the case of multistatic sensing in terminal-self sensing.

[0153] Referring to FIG. 8a, UE 1 and UE 2 can first perform group setup and information exchange (801). During this process, the terminals exchange various information necessary for cooperation for bistatic sensing.

[0154] The information for the above cooperation may include terminal location information, sensing capability information, and preferred sensing parameter information. Here, location information is necessary to calculate the precise location and movement of an object and to adjust the transmission power and timing of the sensing signal. Sensing capability information includes the sensing QoS levels supported by the terminal, the performance of the receiver, and the sensing signal processing capability, which is necessary for designing the sensing signal to match the performance of the receiving terminal. Preferred sensing parameter information is exchanged to determine the parameters that both terminals can support.

[0155] The base station transmits sensing setting information (803, 805) to each terminal. The setting information (803) for the transmitting terminal (UE 1) that transmits the sensing signal may include the same information as the sensing setting information described in FIG. 7. Meanwhile, the setting information (805) for the receiving terminal (UE 2) that receives the sensing signal from the transmitting terminal (UE 1) may include information necessary for processing the received signal, along with resource information for receiving the sensing signal. Specifically, information such as the expected receiving power range and the Doppler range may be included. Based on this setting information, the transmitting terminal (UE 1) transmits the sensing signal (807), and the receiving terminal (UE 2) can receive the signal (809) reflected from the object.

[0156] Referring to the multistatic sensing of FIG. 8b, group setup and information exchange are first performed between UE 1, UE 2, and UE 3 (811). In this process, the information transmitted and received is similar to that of bistatic sensing, but additional information such as the method of sharing reception results between receiving terminals may be exchanged.

[0157] The base station transmits sensing setting information to each terminal (813, 815, 817). The setting information (813) for the transmitting terminal (UE 1) may include the same information as in the bistatic case. The setting information (815, 817) for the receiving terminals (UE 2, UE 3) may include settings that take into account the location and reception characteristics of each receiving terminal, as described in FIG. 8a. According to these settings, the sensing signal (819) transmitted by the transmitting terminal (UE 1) is reflected from the object and received as a reflected signal (821, 823) by the receiving terminals (UE 2, UE 3), respectively.

[0158] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a signaling procedure in sensing of a terminal according to base station instructions as needed by a base station, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0159] Specifically, FIG. 9a describes a sensing procedure through a single terminal by base station instruction, and FIG. 9b describes a sensing procedure through multiple terminals. Additionally, FIG. 9c describes a procedure in which a single terminal transmits a sensing signal and the base station receives a reflected signal from an object by base station instruction, and FIG. 9d describes a procedure in which multiple terminals transmit sensing signals and the base station receives a reflected signal from an object by base station instruction. Referring to the case of sensing through a single terminal in FIG. 9a, the base station transmits sensing instruction information to UE 1 (901). The sensing instruction information includes sensing instructions and / or sensing configuration information. The sensing instruction information or the sensing configuration information may include the purpose (or intention) and requirements of sensing, resource allocation information, sensing signal configuration information, and information related to result reporting.

[0160] The purpose and requirements of sensing may include the specific purpose of sensing and the required sensing QoS requirements. Resource allocation information may include the location and availability time of frequency-time resources for sensing signal transmission. Sensing signal configuration information may include the waveform of the sensing signal, the sequence or code to be used, the signal length and transmission period, and transmission power. Information related to result reporting may include the sensing result items to be reported, the reporting time, the reporting format, and the resources to be used for reporting.

[0161] The terminal transmits a sensing signal according to the received sensing instruction information (903), and in the case of monostatic sensing, receives a reflected signal from the object (905). When sensing is completed, the terminal reports the sensing result to the base station (907). In the case of bistatic sensing (not shown) or multistatic sensing (not shown), the receiving terminal can receive the reflected signal and transmit the sensing result to the base station.

[0162] Meanwhile, the sensing result may be transmitted in its original form or in a processed form. Specifically, the terminal may transmit the acquired original data as is, transmit the result after primary processing, or convert it into a predefined table or codebook format and transmit it. The sensing result includes information such as the presence of the detected object, distance, relative speed, and direction of movement, and may also include information regarding the reliability or accuracy of these measurements. Furthermore, as previously described, the size or format of the sensing result information may vary depending on the sensing QoS requirements (or levels).

[0163] Referring to the case of sensing through multiple terminals in FIG. 9b, the base station transmits sensing instruction information to UE 1 and UE 2, respectively (911, 913). This instruction information includes information similar to that in FIG. 9a, but may additionally include scheduling information for coordinating the order or timing of sensing between the terminals.

[0164] Each terminal transmits a sensing signal according to the instruction information (915, 921), and in the case of monostatic sensing, receives a reflected signal from the object (917, 923). Afterwards, each terminal reports its sensing result to the base station (919, 925). In the case of bistatic sensing (not shown) or multistatic sensing (not shown), the receiving terminal that receives the reflected signal of the object from the sensing signals of UE 1 and UE 2 can transmit the sensing result to the base station.

[0165] The result report from each terminal can be transmitted in its original form or processed form, as in the case of FIG. 9a. In addition, if a sensing signal or reflected signal from another terminal is received, information regarding this may also be included. Furthermore, the size or format of the sensing result information may vary depending on the sensing QoS requirements (or levels).

[0166] FIG. 9c is a diagram illustrating a procedure in which a terminal transmits a sensing signal for sensing a base station according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0167] The base station transmits sensing instruction information to the terminal (UE 1) (931). At this time, the sensing instruction information includes sensing instructions and / or sensing configuration information. The sensing instruction information (or, the sensing configuration information) includes resource allocation information for sensing, sensing signal configuration information, sensing QoS requirements, etc. In FIG. 9c, since the base station receives the reflected signal directly from the object, the terminal does not perform a sensing result report. Therefore, unlike FIG. 9a, the sensing instruction information (or, sensing configuration information) in FIG. 9c does not include information related to result reporting.

[0168] The terminal transmits a sensing signal toward an object according to the above sensing instruction information (or sensing setting information) (933), and the base station receives the signal (935) reflected from the object to obtain (or derive) a sensing result.

[0169] FIG. 9d is a diagram illustrating a procedure in which a base station receives sensing signals transmitted by a plurality of terminals and performs sensing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0170] The base station transmits sensing instruction information to each of the terminals (UE 1, UE 2) (941, 943). At this time, the sensing instruction information includes sensing instructions and / or sensing configuration information. The sensing instruction information (or, the sensing configuration information) includes resource allocation information for sensing, sensing signal configuration information, sensing QoS requirements, etc. Additionally, in FIG. 9d, since multiple terminals transmit sensing signals, the sensing instruction information (or, sensing configuration information) may additionally include scheduling information for scheduling the transmission of sensing signals between the terminals. The terminals transmit sensing signals to each object according to the sensing instruction information (or, sensing configuration information) (945, 949), and the base station can obtain (or derive) sensing results by receiving signals (947, 951) reflected from the object. In this way, more accurate sensing is possible by utilizing sensing signals from multiple terminals.

[0171] FIGS. 10, 11, and 12 are flowcharts illustrating the sensing execution procedures of a terminal according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0172] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a terminal in a case where approval from a base station is unnecessary in terminal self-sensing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0173] Referring to FIG. 10, the terminal receives sensing setting information from the base station (S1005).

[0174] The above sensing configuration information may be transmitted via system information, RRC (Radio Resource Control) settings, DCI, or MAC CE. Additionally, the sensing configuration information may include at least one of resource allocation information for sensing, sensing signal configuration information, and sensing QoS requirement information.

[0175] The terminal transmits a sensing signal to an object based on the received configuration information (S1010) and receives a reflected signal from the object (S1015).

[0176] Subsequently, the terminal can derive and / or process a sensing result from the received reflected signal (S1020).

[0177] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a terminal when approval from a base station is required in the terminal's own sensing according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0178] Referring to FIG. 11, the terminal first receives sensing setting information (S1105) and then requests sensing approval from the base station (S1110). The approval request may include sensing QoS requirement information and sensing operation information.

[0179] Subsequently, when the terminal receives a sensing approval from the base station (S1115), the terminal transmits a sensing signal to an object based on resource allocation information and sensing signal configuration information included in the sensing approval (S1120), and receives a reflected signal from the object (S1125).

[0180] Additionally, the terminal derives and / or processes a sensing result from the received reflected signal (S1130).

[0181] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a terminal sensing by base station instructions according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0182] Referring to FIG. 12, the terminal receives sensing instruction information from a base station (S1205). In addition to the instruction for sensing, this sensing instruction information may include at least one of the purpose (or intention) of sensing, sensing QoS requirements, resource allocation information, sensing signal configuration information, and result reporting information.

[0183] The terminal transmits a sensing signal to an object according to the sensing instruction information (S1210) and receives a reflected signal from the object (S1215).

[0184] Afterward, the terminal derives and / or processes the sensing result (S1220) and reports it to the base station (S1225).

[0185] The above sensing results may be transmitted in their original or processed form and may include information such as the presence, distance, speed, and direction of an object. Additionally, the size and format of the sensing result information may vary depending on the level of the sensing QoS.

[0186] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a terminal when, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a single terminal transmits a sensing signal in accordance with a base station instruction and a reflected signal of an object is transmitted to the base station. FIG. 13 illustrates the operation of a terminal according to the procedure described in FIG. 9c.

[0187] Referring to FIG. 13, the terminal receives sensing instruction information (or sensing setting information) from a base station (S1310). The sensing instruction information (or the sensing setting information) includes resource allocation information for sensing, sensing signal configuration information, sensing QoS requirements, etc.

[0188] The terminal transmits a sensing signal to an object based on the sensing instruction information (or sensing setting information) (S1320). At this time, the reflected signal from the object resulting from the sensing signal transmitted by the terminal is transmitted to the base station. Accordingly, the base station can receive the reflected signal from the object and perform sensing.

[0189] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the operation of a terminal when a plurality of terminals transmit sensing signals in accordance with base station instructions according to an embodiment of the present invention and reflected signals of an object are transmitted to the base station. FIG. 14 illustrates the operation of a terminal according to the procedure described in FIG. 9d.

[0190] Referring to FIG. 14, a terminal receives sensing instruction information (or sensing setting information) containing scheduling information from a base station (S1410). The sensing instruction information (or the sensing setting information) includes resource allocation information for sensing, sensing signal configuration information, sensing QoS requirements, etc. Additionally, the sensing instruction information (or the sensing setting information) may additionally include scheduling information for scheduling the transmission of sensing signals by terminals.

[0191] The terminal checks the allocated resources and the scheduled transmission time according to the sensing instruction information (or sensing setting information) (S1420), and transmits a sensing signal toward the object at the scheduled time (S1430). The signal reflected from the object is transmitted to the base station. Accordingly, the base station can perform sensing by receiving the signals reflected from the object through the sensing signals transmitted from a plurality of terminals. Various embodiments of the present invention described so far may be implemented by hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. In the case of implementation by hardware, it may be implemented by one or more ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), DSPs (Digital Signal Processors), DSPDs (Digital Signal Processing Devices), PLDs (Programmable Logic Devices), FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays), general processors, controllers, microcontrollers, microprocessors, etc.

[0192] The scope of the present invention includes software or machine-executable instructions (e.g., operating systems, applications, firmware, programs, etc.) that enable operations according to the methods of various embodiments to be executed on a device or computer, and a non-transitory computer-readable medium on which such software or instructions, etc. are stored and which are executable on a device or computer. Examples of computer-readable media include hardware devices specifically configured to store and execute program instructions, such as ROM, RAM, flash memory, etc. Examples of program instructions include machine code, such as that produced by a compiler, as well as high-level language code that can be executed by a computer using an interpreter, etc. The hardware devices described above may be configured to operate as at least one software module to perform the operations of the present invention, and vice versa.

[0193] The methods according to the present invention may be implemented in the form of program instructions that can be executed through various computer means and recorded on a computer-readable medium. A computer-readable medium may include program instructions, data files, data structures, etc., either individually or in combination. The program instructions recorded on the computer-readable medium may be those specifically designed and configured for the present invention, or they may be those known and available to those skilled in the art of computer software. The operation of the method according to an embodiment of the present invention may be implemented as a computer-readable program or code on a computer-readable recording medium. A computer-readable recording medium includes any type of recording device in which information that can be read by a computer system is stored. Additionally, the computer-readable recording medium may be distributed across networked computer systems, allowing computer-readable programs or code to be stored and executed in a distributed manner.

[0194] Some aspects of the invention have been described in the context of a device, but may also be described according to a corresponding method, wherein a block or device corresponds to a method step or a feature of a method step. Similarly, aspects described in the context of a method may also be described according to a corresponding block or item or a feature of a corresponding device. Some or all of the method steps may be performed by (or using) a hardware device, such as, for example, a microprocessor, a programmable computer, or an electronic circuit. In some embodiments, at least one of the most important method steps may be performed by such a device.

[0195] In the embodiments, a programmable logic device (e.g., a field-programmable gate array) may be used to perform some or all of the functions of the methods described herein. In the embodiments, the field-programmable gate array may operate with a microprocessor to perform one of the methods described herein. Generally, it is preferable that the methods be performed by some hardware device.

[0196] The exemplary methods of the present invention are described as a series of operations for clarity of description, but this is not intended to limit the order in which the steps are performed, and if necessary, each step may be performed simultaneously or in a different order. To implement the method according to the present invention, additional steps may be included in addition to the steps exemplified, steps excluding some steps and including the remaining steps, or steps excluding some steps and including additional steps.

[0197] The various embodiments of the present invention are not intended to list all possible combinations but are intended to explain representative aspects of the invention, and the matters described in the various embodiments may be applied independently or in combination of two or more.

[0198] Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made to the invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the following claims.

Claims

1. A method for performing sensing of a terminal in a wireless communication system, A step of receiving sensing setting information from a base station; and It includes the step of performing terminal-specific sensing or base station instruction-based sensing based on the above-mentioned sensing setting information, A sensing method comprising at least one of the above-mentioned sensing setting information, sensing resource allocation information, sensing signal configuration information, and sensing requirements.

2. In the case of Paragraph 1, where the sensing is the terminal's own sensing, A step of transmitting a sensing signal to an object based on the sensing setting information without the approval of the base station; and A sensing method comprising the step of receiving a reflected signal from the above object.

3. In the case of Paragraph 1, where the sensing is the terminal's own sensing, A step of transmitting a sensing approval request to the base station based on the above sensing setting information; A step of receiving a sensing approval from the above base station; A step of transmitting a sensing signal to an object based on the above-mentioned sensing approval; and A sensing method comprising the step of receiving a reflected signal from the above object.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above-mentioned sensing approval request includes at least one of sensing requirement information and sensing operation information, and The above sensing operation information includes at least one of the purpose of sensing, amount of sensing resources, time of sensing, and duration of sensing information, and The above sensing approval includes at least one of resource allocation information and sensing signal configuration information, and The above resource allocation information includes at least one of frequency-time resource information, resource availability time, sensing signal transmission power, allowable transmission power range, and allowable maximum transmission power information, and A sensing method comprising at least one of the above sensing signal configuration information, the waveform, sequence, code, length, transmission period, and power control information of the sensing signal.

5. In the case of paragraph 1, where the sensing is terminal-specific sensing and is bistatic sensing or multistatic sensing, A step of forming a group with at least one other terminal and exchanging sensing-related information; and It includes the step of transmitting a sensing signal to an object based on the above-mentioned sensing setting information, and A sensing method in which a reflected signal from the above object is transmitted to at least one other terminal.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above sensing-related information includes at least one of the terminal's location information, sensing capability information, and preferred sensing parameter information, and A sensing method comprising at least one of the above sensing capability information, a supportable sensing requirement level, receiver performance, and sensing signal processing capability.

7. In the case of paragraph 1, where the sensing is base station instruction-based sensing, A step of receiving sensing instruction information including the above-mentioned sensing setting information; and A sensing method comprising the step of transmitting a sensing signal to an object based on the above-mentioned sensing instruction information.

8. In Paragraph 7, A sensing method in which a reflected signal from the above object is transmitted to the base station.

9. In Paragraph 8, When multiple terminals participate in the above sensing, The above sensing setting information further includes scheduling information for scheduling the transmission of sensing signals of the plurality of terminals, and A sensing method in which the sensing signal of each terminal is transmitted to the object based on the scheduling information.

10. In Paragraph 7, The above sensing setting information further includes information related to result reporting, and A step of receiving a reflected signal from the above object; and A sensing method further comprising the step of reporting a sensing result derived from the above reflection signal to the base station based on the above result reporting related information.

11. In the case of Clause 10, where multiple terminals participate in the above sensing, The above sensing setting information further includes scheduling information for scheduling the transmission of sensing signals of the plurality of terminals, and A sensing method in which the sensing signal of each terminal is transmitted to the object based on the scheduling information.

12. In Paragraph 10, The above sensing results are transmitted in their original form or processed form, and The above-mentioned processed form includes a predefined table or codebook form, and A sensing method in which the size or format of the information displaying the above sensing results is determined based on the above sensing requirements.

13. In Paragraph 1, A sensing method in which the above sensing setting information is received through system information, RRC (Radio Resource Control) settings, DCI (Downlink Control Information), or MAC CE (Medium Access Control Control Element).

14. In Paragraph 1, The above sensing requirements include at least one of accuracy, resolution, latency, reliability, and update rate, and The above accuracy includes at least one of distance measurement accuracy, speed measurement accuracy, position measurement accuracy, and direction measurement accuracy, and The above resolution includes at least one of distance resolution, position resolution, direction resolution and velocity resolution, and The above delay time includes at least one of a sensing processing delay time and a result transmission delay time, and A sensing method comprising at least one of a sensing success rate and a false positive rate, wherein the above reliability includes 15. In a terminal of a wireless communication system, Transmitter / receiver; and Includes a processor, The above processor is, Receives sensing setting information from the base station, and Based on the above sensing setting information, the terminal is configured to perform self-sensing or base station instruction-based sensing, and A terminal comprising at least one of the above-mentioned sensing configuration information, sensing resource allocation information, sensing signal configuration information, and sensing requirements.

16. In Paragraph 15, If the above sensing is the terminal's own sensing, The above processor is, Transmitting a sensing signal to an object based on the sensing setting information without the approval of the base station, and A terminal configured to receive a reflected signal from the above object.

17. In Paragraph 15, If the above sensing is the terminal's own sensing, The above processor is, Based on the above sensing setting information, a sensing approval request is transmitted to the base station, and Receives sensing approval from the above base station, and Based on the above sensing approval, a sensing signal is transmitted to the object, and A terminal configured to receive a reflected signal from the above object.

18. In Paragraph 17, The above-mentioned sensing approval request includes at least one of sensing requirement information and sensing operation information, and The above sensing operation information includes at least one of the purpose of sensing, amount of sensing resources, time of sensing, and duration of sensing information, and The above sensing approval includes at least one of resource allocation information and sensing signal configuration information, and The above resource allocation information includes at least one of frequency-time resource information, resource availability time, sensing signal transmission power, allowable transmission power range, and allowable maximum transmission power information, and The above sensing signal configuration information comprises at least one of the waveform, sequence, code, length, transmission period, and power control information of the sensing signal, a terminal.

19. In Paragraph 15, If the above sensing is terminal-specific sensing and is bistatic sensing or multistatic sensing, The above processor is, Forming a group with at least one other terminal and exchanging sensing-related information, It is configured to transmit a sensing signal to an object based on the above-mentioned sensing setting information, and A terminal, wherein the reflected signal from the above object is transmitted to at least one other terminal.

20. In Paragraph 19, The above sensing-related information includes at least one of the terminal's location information, sensing capability information, and preferred sensing parameter information, and The above sensing capability information includes at least one of a supportable sensing requirement level, receiver performance, and sensing signal processing capability, a terminal.

21. In Paragraph 15, If the above sensing is base station instruction-based sensing, The above processor is, Receiving sensing instruction information including the above sensing setting information, and A terminal configured to transmit a sensing signal to an object based on the above-mentioned sensing instruction information.

22. In Paragraph 21, A terminal that transmits a reflected signal from the above object to the base station.

23. In Paragraph 22, When multiple terminals participate in the above sensing, The above sensing setting information further includes scheduling information for scheduling the transmission of sensing signals of the plurality of terminals, and A terminal, wherein the sensing signal of each terminal is transmitted to the object based on the scheduling information.

24. In Paragraph 21, The above processor is, If the above sensing setting information further includes information related to result reporting, Receiving a reflected signal from the above object, and A terminal configured to report a sensing result derived from the above reflection signal to the above base station based on the above result reporting related information.

25. In Paragraph 24, When multiple terminals participate in the above sensing, The above sensing setting information further includes scheduling information for scheduling the transmission of sensing signals of the plurality of terminals, and A terminal, wherein the sensing signal of each terminal is transmitted to the object based on the scheduling information.

26. In Paragraph 24, The above sensing results are transmitted in their original form or processed form, and The above-mentioned processed form includes a predefined table or codebook form, and A terminal, wherein the size or format of the information displaying the above sensing results is determined based on the above sensing requirements.

27. In Paragraph 15, The above sensing setting information is received via system information, RRC (Radio Resource Control) settings, DCI (Downlink Control Information), or MAC CE (Medium Access Control Control Element), and is a terminal.

28. In Paragraph 15, The above sensing requirements include at least one of accuracy, resolution, latency, reliability, and update rate, and The above accuracy includes at least one of distance measurement accuracy, speed measurement accuracy, position measurement accuracy, and direction measurement accuracy, and The above resolution includes at least one of distance resolution, position resolution, direction resolution and velocity resolution, and The above delay time includes at least one of a sensing processing delay time and a result transmission delay time, and The above reliability includes at least one of a sensing success rate and a false positive rate, a terminal.

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