Cellular PNT Network Slicing for Resilient Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cellular networks face challenges in providing accurate and resilient position and timing (PNT) services due to synchronization issues between network entities, interference, and limitations in estimating precise locations, especially in urban environments, which can impact emergency response and navigation applications.
Innovation Solution
A cellular PNT network utilizing 5G NR signals and network slicing techniques, combined with interference reduction methods like CDMA, TDMA, and FDMA, to enhance synchronization and positioning accuracy, incorporating a leader-follower topology for time synchronization and interference management, and integrating altitude sensors for three-dimensional positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dedicated positioning signals (PRS) are used to determine accurate position and time, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and network resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes existing cellular network entities (base stations, TRPs) perform dual functions: maintaining synchronization for primary wireless communication services and providing fine synchronization for positioning signals. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated positioning infrastructure, reducing overall system complexity while achieving accurate PNT estimation through multi-functional use of existing network components
Solution Approach 2:
The cellular network entities self-organize into synchronization groups where members automatically maintain fine synchronization through coordinated signal transmission and reception. The network uses its own existing infrastructure and protocols to achieve the synchronization required for accurate positioning, without requiring external dedicated positioning systems
2Reliability
If fine synchronization is implemented between network entities for resilient PNT, then reliability is improved, but use of energy and network resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cellular network into synchronization groups containing multiple network entities that maintain fine synchronization among themselves. This segmentation allows only relevant subsets of network entities to consume energy for synchronization maintenance rather than requiring all entities to continuously synchronize, reducing overall energy consumption while ensuring reliable PNT service through distributed redundancy
Solution Approach 2:
The network entities transmit positioning signals in periodic intervals rather than continuously, maintaining fine synchronization through scheduled transmission opportunities. This periodic operation reduces energy consumption compared to continuous synchronization while ensuring that PNT services remain resilient through regularly updated timing information
3Adaptability or versatility
If cellular signals are used for position estimation in urban environments, then adaptability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where network entities monitor signal quality and synchronization status in real-time, adjusting transmission parameters and synchronization timing based on observed interference conditions. This feedback loop enables the system to maintain measurement precision in urban environments by dynamically compensating for multipath effects and interference while preserving adaptability across diverse deployment scenarios
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques, methods, and solutions for supporting accurate and resilient positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) services. In some examples, a cellular PNT (Cell-PNT) network may provide end-to-end monitoring and control of PNT capabilities. For example, a server may coordinate resource allocation between devices. The server may receive a service request and requested performance indicators according to a service level agreement. The server may additionally receive determined performance indicators associated with the service. Based on differences between determined performance indicators and requested performance indicators, the server may determine how to adjust resources to satisfy the requested performance indicators. Indication of the adjusted resources may be transmitted to a device associated with the determined performance indicators. The device may adjust data indications and signals based on the adjusted resources.