Direct PRS Transmission for Out-of-Network UE Positioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing positioning methods based on the Uu interface are ineffective when User Equipment (UE) is out of network.

Innovation Solution

A method and device for transmitting positioning reference signals (PRS) between terminals via a direct communication interface, using Sidelink Location Protocol (SLPP), PC5-S signaling, PC5 Radio Resource Control (RRC) signaling, Media Access Control (MAC) control element (CE), or Sidelink Control Information (SCI), to enable UE positioning even when out of network.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If positioning methods based on Uu interface are used, then positioning can be achieved when UE is in network, but positioning cannot be achieved when UE is out of network

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepositioning capabilityVSAvoidpositioning reliability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a peer terminal as an intermediary to enable positioning when the UE is out of network. Instead of requiring direct communication with the network, the out-of-network UE can use a peer terminal that has network connectivity to facilitate positioning signals and measurements, thus resolving the limitation of Uu interface-based positioning methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the positioning function into separate components: the UE performs local measurements, the peer terminal handles network communication and signal transmission, and the location server processes positioning data. This segmentation allows the system to function in out-of-network scenarios by distributing responsibilities across different entities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If direct communication interface is used for positioning, then positioning is enabled for out-of-network UE, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepositioning coverageVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the peer terminal multi-functional by enabling it to perform both network communication and positioning signal transmission. The peer terminal can act as a relay for positioning reference signals and participate in measurements, reducing the need for separate dedicated components and simplifying the overall system architecture.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The out-of-network UE performs self-service by autonomously measuring positioning reference signals and calculating its own position without requiring continuous network assistance. The UE independently executes measurements and position calculations using received signals from peer terminals, reducing system complexity by eliminating the need for constant network control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS20250274239A1Method, device, and terminal for transmitting positioning reference signals

Publication Date: 2025.08.28 DATANG MOBILE COMM EQUIP CO LTD

AI summary

The present disclosure is to provide a method, device, and terminal for positioning reference signals (PRS) transmission. The method includes: transmitting, by a first terminal, resource information and/or configuration information of PRS to a second terminal, where the second terminal is in communication with the first terminal via a direct communication interface; and transmitting, by the first terminal, the PRS to the second terminal at the resource location indicated by the resource information and/or configuration information.