Dynamic Sidelink PRS Activation for Out-of-Coverage Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication networks face challenges in providing accurate positioning services for user equipment (UEs) in out-of-coverage areas or areas with insufficient network-based positioning capabilities, such as tunnels or urban canyons, where Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals are weak or unavailable.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of dynamic activation and management of Positioning Reference Signals (PRS) in sidelink (SL) communications, where roadside units (RSUs) detect the presence of UEs and proactively configure SL PRS transmissions based on UE mobility and density, allowing for efficient positioning even outside network coverage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If Positioning Reference Signals are continuously transmitted in sidelink communications, then positioning accuracy is improved, but signaling overhead and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic activation and deactivation of Positioning Reference Signal transmissions based on real-time detection of UE presence. The RSU transitions between active and inactive states, adjusting PRS transmission according to whether UEs are detected in the coverage area. This dynamic approach maintains positioning accuracy when needed while reducing signaling overhead during periods without UEs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where the RSU detects UE presence through sidelink communications and uses this information to control PRS transmission. The detection outcome feeds back to the activation decision, creating a closed-loop system that optimizes positioning signal transmission based on actual demand.
2Reliability
If Positioning Reference Signals are transmitted in out-of-coverage areas, then positioning service reliability is improved, but network infrastructure dependency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-service positioning in out-of-coverage areas by allowing UEs to perform positioning measurements using signals from other UEs or roadside units without requiring network infrastructure. The system autonomously establishes positioning capabilities in isolated areas, eliminating dependency on centralized network control for positioning services.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning function is segmented from traditional network-based positioning. Instead of relying on centralized network infrastructure, the system distributes positioning capabilities to individual UEs and roadside units, enabling independent positioning operations in out-of-coverage scenarios through localized signal exchanges.
3Loss of time
If roadside units proactively configure SL PRS transmissions based on UE mobility, then positioning latency is reduced, but detection and measurement complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by having roadside units proactively detect UE presence and pre-configure Positioning Reference Signal transmissions based on anticipated positioning needs. The RSU detects UEs through sidelink communications and activates PRS transmission before positioning requests are formally made, reducing positioning latency by preparing resources in advance.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for positioning in a sidelink communication. The method includes detecting, by an anchor component, a presence of at least one user equipment; and activating, by the anchor component, a transmission of a positioning reference signal to the user equipment responsive to the detected presence of the at least one user equipment.