Angle-Based Positioning in 5G Telecommunication Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current positioning technologies in 5G communication systems face challenges in achieving high accuracy and efficiency, particularly in non-line-of-sight (NLOS) conditions and with limited UE capabilities.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves an angle-based positioning method that utilizes Angle of Arrival (AoA) and Angle of Departure (AoD) measurements, combined with signal strength and timing advance information, to determine the location of User Equipment (UE) in a telecommunication network. This method leverages the capabilities of both the UE and base stations (gNBs) to calculate the UE's position, even in NLOS scenarios.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional positioning technologies (ECID, A-GNSS, OTDOA) are used in 5G systems, then compatibility with existing networks is maintained, but positioning accuracy is insufficient especially in NLOS conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameters from traditional time-based or signal strength-based metrics to angle-based measurements (AoA, AoD). By utilizing the phase information from multiple antenna elements to calculate arrival and departure angles, the system achieves higher positioning accuracy particularly in NLOS conditions where traditional methods fail. This parameter transformation enables precise location estimation without requiring direct line-of-sight propagation paths.
2Measurement precision
If angle-based positioning (AoA/AoD) is implemented, then positioning accuracy is improved, but the complexity of measurement and calculation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the positioning measurement process into distinct components: AoA measurement at the gNB, AoD measurement at the UE, and hybrid combinations. Each component can be independently implemented or combined based on specific deployment scenarios. The measurement process is further segmented across multiple antenna elements, where each element contributes to the overall angle calculation through phase difference analysis, making the complex measurement task manageable and scalable.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal positioning framework that can operate in multiple modes: pure AoA, pure AoD, or hybrid combinations. The same angle-based measurement infrastructure supports various positioning scenarios including LOS and NLOS conditions, indoor and outdoor environments, and different 5G deployment configurations. This multi-functional approach allows the system to adapt to diverse requirements without requiring separate measurement systems for each scenario.
3Reliability
If massive antenna elements are used for angle-based positioning, then positioning accuracy and NLOS performance are enhanced, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by allowing different levels of antenna complexity at the gNB and UE sides. The gNB can be equipped with massive antenna arrays to perform accurate AoA measurements, while the UE may use fewer antennas for AoD measurements or simpler processing. This asymmetric configuration optimizes the overall system performance by placing computational and hardware complexity where it provides the most benefit, rather than requiring symmetric complexity throughout the system.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a pre-5th-Generation (5G) or 5G communication system to be provided for supporting higher data rates Beyond 4th-Generation (4G) communication system such as long term evolution (LTE). Disclosed is a method of determining a User Equipment, UE, location wherein the UE is in communication with at least two base stations (gNB) of a telecommunication network, comprising the steps of: determining at least one of: a) Angle of Arrival, AoA, of a signal from the UE at each of the at least two gNBs; b) Angle of Departure, AoD, of a signal from each of the at least two gNBs; c) AoA of a signal from each of the at least two gNBs at the UE; and d) AoD of a signal from the UE at each of the at least two gNBs; and determining the UE position on the basis thereof.