On-Demand DL PRS Configuration for Wireless Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wireless communication systems, particularly 5G, face challenges in efficiently managing downlink positioning reference signals (PRS) due to always-on transmission, which leads to increased power consumption and resource inefficiency.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an on-demand downlink (DL) PRS configuration method where a location management function (LMF) determines the need for PRS configuration and transmits it only when required, using dormant or initial active bandwidth parts based on received control information, allowing user equipment (UE) to request and receive PRS configuration information as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If downlink positioning reference signal (PRS) is transmitted always-on, then positioning service availability is improved, but power consumption of network equipment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements on-demand PRS transmission where the LMF determines whether to activate PRS based on positioning service requirements. Instead of continuous transmission, PRS is transmitted periodically only when positioning services are needed, as controlled by the LMF's activation decisions based on service availability determinations.
Solution Approach 2:
The LMF autonomously determines positioning service availability and controls PRS activation without requiring external intervention. The system self-regulates by having the LMF assess positioning needs and activate or deactivate PRS accordingly, enabling the network to serve itself in managing positioning resource allocation.
2Measurement precision
If downlink positioning reference signal (PRS) is transmitted always-on, then positioning accuracy is maintained, but resource efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
PRS transmission is converted from continuous to periodic on-demand operation. The LMF activates PRS only when positioning services require it, and deactivates when not needed, maintaining positioning accuracy during active periods while improving resource efficiency during inactive periods through periodic transmission cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the transmission parameter state of PRS from always-on to on-demand by controlling activation and deactivation. The LMF adjusts the operational state parameter of PRS based on positioning service requirements, transitioning between active and inactive states to optimize the balance between positioning accuracy and resource efficiency.
3Use of energy by stationary object
If on-demand PRS configuration is implemented, then power consumption is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The LMF serves as an intermediary between positioning service requirements and PRS transmission control. It receives positioning service availability information, makes activation decisions, and controls PRS transmission accordingly. This intermediary role centralizes the complexity in the control plane while keeping the transmission side simpler and more energy-efficient.
Data Source
AI summary
A method performed by a location management function (LMF) in a wireless communication system, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, may include obtaining downlink positioning reference signal (DL PRS) configuration information, determining, at least based on the obtained DL PRS configuration information, a need for on-demand DL PRS configuration information, and, in case that it is determined that the on-demand DL PRS configuration information is needed, transmitting the on-demand DL PRS configuration information to a user equipment (UE).