Lower-Layer Control Signaling for On-Demand DL-PRS Activation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wireless networks face inefficiencies in positioning accuracy and latency due to periodic DL-PRS resource configurations that are not tailored to specific UE needs, leading to increased network overhead and reduced UE efficiency.

Innovation Solution

Implementing lower-layer control signaling to dynamically activate DL-PRS resources for specific UEs based on their requirements, allowing targeted resource allocation and reducing unnecessary network and UE inefficiencies.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If periodic DL-PRS resource configurations are used, then positioning can be performed, but positioning accuracy and latency are reduced due to lack of UE-specific tailoring

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidUE-specific adaptation

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static periodic configurations to dynamic on-demand activation. The network can dynamically activate DL-PRS resources based on real-time UE positioning needs, allowing the system to adapt its behavior rather than following a fixed periodic schedule. This resolves the contradiction by enabling both accurate positioning and UE-specific adaptation through dynamic resource allocation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the parameter of resource activation timing from fixed periodic intervals to flexible on-demand activation. By modifying when and how DL-PRS resources are activated based on actual UE requirements rather than predetermined schedules, the system achieves both positioning accuracy and adaptability to specific UE needs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If periodic DL-PRS resource configurations are used, then positioning can be performed, but network overhead increases and UE efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveUE efficiencyVSAvoidnetwork overhead

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the essential function of DL-PRS resource activation from the periodic configuration mechanism. Instead of maintaining continuous periodic configurations that consume network overhead, the system extracts and activates only the necessary positioning resources when specifically needed by a UE, thereby reducing unnecessary network overhead and improving UE efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces continuous periodic action with intermittent on-demand activation. Rather than periodically configuring and activating DL-PRS resources for all UEs regardless of actual need, the system activates resources only when a specific UE requires positioning services, reducing network overhead while maintaining positioning functionality where needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

Data Source

PatentUS20250294600A1Lower layer control signal for downlink positioning reference signal

Publication Date: 2025.09.18 APPLE INC

AI summary

The present application relates to devices and components including apparatus, systems, and methods for lower-layer activation and release of configured time windows for downlink positioning reference signals.