Mobile Node Positioning via Time Synchronization for NLOS Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication networks face challenges in providing precise positioning, especially in non-line-of-sight (NLOS) situations and sparse network deployments with large inter-site distances, which are exacerbated in 5G networks, and existing solutions are inadequate for meeting the accuracy requirements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a method using multiple mobile radio network nodes to perform time synchronization and relative positioning, employing precision time protocol (PTP) measurements and time difference of arrival (TDOA) calculations to determine the position of user equipment (UE) without requiring direct line-of-sight signals, utilizing a multi-hop route established between mobile nodes to enhance positioning accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional fixed network nodes are used for positioning, then positioning can be performed in areas with direct line of sight, but positioning accuracy deteriorates in non-line-of-sight situations and sparse network deployments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces mobile radio network nodes (such as vehicles, drones, or portable base stations) that can dynamically move to positions providing line-of-sight connectivity to both the target UE and fixed network nodes. This dynamic mobility allows the system to adapt to NLOS conditions by physically repositioning measurement points, thereby maintaining positioning accuracy in environments where traditional fixed nodes would fail.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile radio network nodes act as intermediaries between fixed network nodes and target UEs in NLOS situations. These mobile nodes receive positioning reference signals from fixed nodes and relay them to UEs, or measure signals from UEs and forward measurements to location servers. This intermediary role enables positioning in sparse deployments and NLOS conditions by creating additional signal paths that would not exist with fixed nodes alone.
2Adaptability or versatility
If mobile radio network nodes are deployed to extend coverage, then adaptability to NLOS and sparse deployment scenarios improves, but device complexity and synchronization requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mobile radio network nodes are designed to perform multiple functions: they can serve as traditional base stations for data communication, act as positioning reference points for OTDOA measurements, function as moving relays to extend network coverage, and provide line-of-sight measurement points for TDOA positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated positioning infrastructure, thereby managing complexity while enhancing adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where mobile nodes continuously report their positions, signal quality metrics, and measurement data to location servers. The location server processes this feedback to determine optimal positioning methods and adjusts positioning procedures dynamically based on current network conditions, mobile node positions, and UE locations. This feedback-driven approach automates complex synchronization and positioning decisions.
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 approach enables accurate UE positioning even in challenging environments by leveraging the mobility and connectivity of mobile nodes, improving positioning precision and extending coverage where traditional methods fail, such as in rural areas or areas with sparse network deployment.
Implementation Method 1
The one or more procedures synchronize timing of the mobile radio network node relative to the two or more additional nodes
Implementation Method 2
employing precision time protocol (PTP) measurements and time difference of arrival (TDOA) calculations to determine the position of user equipment (UE)
Implementation Method 3
performing a measurement on a signal from a transmitting node, the measurement being a time of arrival (TOA) of the signal at the mobile radio network node
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and processes for position estimation for emitters outside of line of sight of fixed network nodes are disclosed. The positions of the mobile nodes are determined and the mobile nodes are time synchronized. Then, locations of one or more user equipments (UEs) are determined. The mobile radio network nodes may be air, land, or water-borne (e.g., mounted on drones, trains, boats, planes, automobiles, or the like). The UEs to be located may be a wide range of devices such as emergency transmitters, mobile phones, simple sensor nodes, and other Internet of Things (IoT) devices.