Bidirectional Timing Measurements for NR Positioning Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current positioning techniques in LTE networks are limited and cannot be fully utilized for NR networks, which require new solutions to support additional use cases and scenarios due to significant differences between LTE and NR.
Innovation Solution
The method involves managing bidirectional measurements on uplink/downlink pairs between nodes in a wireless network, including obtaining transmit and receive timings, determining bidirectional measurements, and applying compensation for beamforming and propagation differences, to facilitate accurate positioning in NR networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If LTE positioning techniques are used in NR networks, then backward compatibility is maintained, but positioning accuracy and functionality are insufficient for NR requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces new positioning parameters specific to NR networks, including bidirectional timing measurements (Rx-Tx time difference), gNB timing advance, and multi-beam timing measurements. These parameter changes enable positioning accuracy and functionality that meet NR requirements while maintaining compatibility with existing LTE infrastructure through selective implementation.
2Measurement precision
If bidirectional timing measurements are implemented in NR, then positioning accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases due to additional measurement procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by having the gNB configure the UE with measurement parameters and beam information before actual positioning measurements are needed. The gNB provides reference signal configuration, beamforming information, and measurement timing advance in advance, allowing the UE to execute measurements efficiently without complex real-time processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning measurement process is segmented into distinct phases: configuration phase (gNB provides parameters), measurement phase (UE performs bidirectional timing measurements on specific beams), and reporting phase (UE sends results to gNB). This segmentation reduces complexity by breaking down the overall process into manageable, independent steps that can be executed systematically.
3Reliability
If multiple beams are used for timing measurements, then positioning reliability is improved, but measurement time and processing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic action by configuring the UE to perform timing measurements on multiple beams in a periodic or sequential manner rather than simultaneously. The gNB schedules measurement opportunities at specific time intervals, allowing the UE to cycle through different beams systematically. This approach maintains reliability through multi-beam measurements while controlling the total measurement time through structured scheduling.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments include methods for managing a bidirectional measurement for an uplink/downlink pair of links between one or more first nodes and one or more second nodes in a wireless network. Methods include obtaining a transmit timing of a first signal on a first link of the pair during a first time resource, obtaining a receive timing of a second signal on a second link of the pair during a second time resource, and determining the bidirectional measurement based on the obtained transmit timing and obtained receive timing. In this arrangement, at least one of the following applies: the first and second links are between one first node and two respective second nodes; at least one of the first link and the second link are associated with a non-serving carrier frequency; and at least one of the first link and the second link are managed via one or more beams.