NTN Positioning via Architecture-Based UE Location Estimation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3GPP positioning frameworks lack specified interfaces and signaling options to integrate non-terrestrial networks (NTNs) effectively, particularly for low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, and do not support regulatory and emergency services efficiently, as well as existing RAT-independent positioning methods.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of NG-RAN architectural enhancements to support location services (LCS) over transparent-payload and regenerative-payload NTN deployments, enabling single- and multi-connectivity architectures, UE-based and network-based positioning, and enhanced location procedures to accommodate different NTN architectural options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If 3GPP positioning framework is used without NTN enhancements, then existing positioning methods are supported, but NTN integration and regulatory service efficiency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the positioning framework into NTN-specific components ( NTN LMF, NTN positioning methods) and terrestrial components, allowing independent optimization for satellite-based positioning while maintaining compatibility with existing 3GPP standards. This enables specialized handling of NTN challenges like large propagation delays and Doppler effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an NTN Location Management Function (LMF) as an intermediary layer between the UE and the core network, specifically designed to handle NTN positioning procedures. This intermediary enables regulatory service-efficient positioning by managing assistance data delivery and positioning protocol adaptations for satellite networks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If RAT-independent positioning methods are used, then multi-RAT compatibility is achieved, but NTN-specific positioning requirements are not met
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing RAT-specific positioning methods within the unified 3GPP framework. For NTN, specialized positioning methods (DL-TDOA, UL-TDOA, DL-AoD, UL-AoA) are defined with parameters optimized for satellite propagation characteristics, while maintaining compatibility with terrestrial RATs through common interface definitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal positioning framework where the LMF can serve multiple RATs (NR, LTE, satellite) through common interfaces and procedures. The same LMF entity can perform both RAT-independent positioning (using GNSS assistance) and RAT-dependent positioning (using NR-specific signals), achieving multi-functionality.
3Reliability
If emergency services are supported in NTN, then regulatory compliance is achieved, but positioning latency increases due to satellite propagation delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-delivering assistance data to the UE before positioning is actually needed. The NTN LMF provides satellite ephemeris, almanac, and positioning configuration information in advance, so that when emergency positioning is required, the UE can immediately perform measurements and calculations without waiting for data retrieval, significantly reducing latency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional network-based positioning calculation (mechanical system requiring round-trip signaling) with UE-based autonomous positioning using pre-provided assistance data. The UE independently calculates its position using received satellite signals and pre-delivered ephemeris information, eliminating the need for time-consuming network round-trips and reducing latency for emergency services.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses, methods, and systems are disclosed for location services in a non-terrestrial networks (“NTN”). One method includes configuring a plurality of location services for a UE over an NTN NG-RAN that comprises at least one satellite and at least one NTN gateway. The method includes determining an architecture type of the NTN NG-RAN and determining a target-UE position estimate based on the determined architecture type.