Aperiodic Reference Signal Triggering for Low Latency Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current wireless communication systems face challenges in efficiently triggering on-demand downlink reference signals for positioning in industrial IoT scenarios, particularly in achieving low latency and high accuracy, as existing methods lack support for aperiodic and semi-persistent DL RS configurations.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of methods and systems that allow for the configuration and activation of aperiodic reference signals, such as PRS and CSI-RS, through new information elements and triggers within the DCI, enabling on-demand transmission and reporting of positioning data, with support for multiple resource sets and quasi-collocation information.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If periodic downlink reference signals are used for positioning, then positioning coverage is ensured, but positioning latency increases and network efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning latencyVSAvoidnetwork efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements dynamic switching between periodic and aperiodic downlink reference signal transmission modes. The network can adaptively select the transmission mode based on positioning service requirements, enabling low-latency positioning when needed while maintaining network efficiency during normal operations. This dynamic approach resolves the contradiction by making the system flexible rather than fixed in one mode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the transmission parameter of downlink reference signals from fixed periodic to variable aperiodic timing. By introducing aperiodic transmission with configurable timing offsets and triggering mechanisms, the system can reduce positioning latency on demand while avoiding continuous transmission overhead, thus improving network efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Measurement precision

If aperiodic reference signals are implemented for on-demand positioning, then positioning latency is reduced and accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent pre-configures aperiodic reference signal parameters including timing offsets, resource allocations, and triggering conditions during system setup. This preliminary configuration stores multiple ready-to-use parameter sets that can be quickly activated without real-time computation, reducing the operational complexity while enabling high-accuracy on-demand positioning.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary layer of pre-defined parameter configurations and standardized triggering mechanisms between the positioning request and the actual aperiodic reference signal transmission. This intermediary structure simplifies the control logic by providing a structured interface for activating aperiodic signals, managing the complexity of coordinating multiple nodes and UEs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If continuous downlink reference signal transmission is used, then positioning accuracy is maintained, but network overhead increases and energy consumption rises

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidnetwork energy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses periodic triggering mechanisms for aperiodic reference signal transmission, where signals are sent at predetermined intervals or upon specific events rather than continuously. This periodic action maintains positioning accuracy by ensuring signals are available when needed while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous transmission.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables the system to self-regulate reference signal transmission based on positioning service activation. When positioning services are not active, the network automatically stops transmitting downlink reference signals, eliminating unnecessary energy consumption while maintaining the capability to resume transmission when positioning accuracy is required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20230388072A1Methods and apparatus for control of aperiodic signals and reports in positioning
Publication Date: 2023.11.30 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • US20230388072A1 patent drawing
  • US20230388072A1 patent drawing
  • US20230388072A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A method by a wireless device includes receiving, from a first network node, assistance information that includes at least one information element that indicates at least one resource type associated with at least one reference signal (RS). The at least one resource type indicates at least one type of RS selected from: Positioning Reference Signal (PRS), Channel State Information-Reference Signal (CSI-RS), and Tracking Reference Signal (TRS).