D2D Terminal Distance Estimation Using Discovery Message Time Information
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current D2D communication systems face challenges in accurate distance estimation due to low signal strength in indoor or densely populated areas, and the signal-based relative position locating method has low accuracy, requiring additional operations and affecting user experience.
Innovation Solution
A time-based relative position locating method is introduced, where terminals transmit and receive discovery messages containing time information to calculate distance, allowing for improved accuracy without the need for extra signal information transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If signal-based relative position locating method is used, then distance estimation can be performed, but accuracy is low and additional operations are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the signal-based distance estimation method with a time-based method. Instead of using signal strength (RSSI) measurements which require complex calibration and are affected by environmental factors, the invention uses time of flight (ToF) measurements of discovery messages. This substitution of the measurement principle directly improves accuracy while simplifying the operational requirements, as time measurements are more precise and less susceptible to interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from signal strength (power-based) to time of flight (time-based). By measuring the time it takes for discovery messages to travel between terminals and calculating distance based on the speed of light, the system achieves higher precision. This parameter change eliminates the need for complex signal processing and calibration operations while providing more accurate distance estimates.
2Measurement precision
If signal information transmission is added for distance estimation, then distance can be calculated, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the distance estimation function with the existing discovery message exchange process. Instead of transmitting separate signal information in addition to discovery messages, the invention embeds time stamps and timing information directly within the discovery messages themselves. This consolidation allows distance calculation to be performed as a byproduct of the normal discovery procedure, eliminating the need for additional transmissions and reducing power consumption while maintaining high accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If signal-based distance estimation is used, then position can be located, but radio resource utilization is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the discovery message serve multiple functions simultaneously: device discovery, capability exchange, and distance estimation. By incorporating time stamps and timing information into the existing discovery message format, the system performs position locating without requiring dedicated signaling resources. This multi-functional approach improves radio resource utilization efficiency while achieving accurate position locating, as the same message infrastructure supports multiple purposes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method enhances distance estimation accuracy, reduces power consumption, and optimizes radio resource utilization by using time information within the discovery message, providing a more efficient and precise distance calculation in various wireless communication systems.
Implementation Method 1
acquire time information for use in calculating a distance to the other terminal included in the discovery message
Data Source
AI summary
A terminal and a distance estimation method thereof for use in a wireless communication system supporting device-to-device (D2D) communication are provided. The terminal includes a transceiver configured to communicate with other terminals and at least one processor configured to control the transceiver to transmit a discovery message including time information to the other terminals and receive distance information calculated by the other terminals, the distance information being calculated based on the time information. The present 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).