Positioning Reference Signal Configuration for Network Node Identification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Communications networks face challenges in providing effective location information, especially in environments where infrastructure is dynamic or lacks global navigation satellite system (GNSS) availability, leading to insufficient positioning support for devices.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that acquire positioning reference signal configurations from radio network nodes, transmit positioning reference signals, and provide location information to support device positioning, allowing flexible reference points within the network to facilitate positioning even in environments with changing infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by stationary object
If broadcast signals are transmitted more infrequently to reduce network energy consumption, then energy consumption is reduced, but wireless devices cannot identify individual network nodes prior to network attach
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the network infrastructure into traditional broadcast signals and new positioning reference signals. The positioning reference signals are transmitted separately with higher frequency and contain network node identification information, while broadcast signals can be transmitted less frequently for energy saving. This segmentation allows the network to maintain node identification capability without requiring frequent broadcast transmissions.
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning reference signals serve multiple functions: they enable network node identification, provide positioning information, and support device localization. By making these signals multi-functional, the network achieves node identification and positioning capabilities without relying solely on traditional broadcast signals, allowing broadcast signals to be transmitted less frequently for energy conservation.
2Productivity
If network infrastructure is deployed to support communication needs only, then communication capacity is improved, but positioning capability is insufficient in dynamic environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces positioning reference signals that can be dynamically configured and transmitted by network nodes based on positioning requirements. These signals adapt to changing environmental conditions and positioning needs in dynamic environments like construction sites and mines, providing reliable positioning support without requiring complete infrastructure redesign for each scenario.
Solution Approach 2:
The network can change parameters of positioning reference signals including transmission frequency, signal power, and resource allocation based on positioning requirements. This allows the same communication infrastructure to provide both communication capacity and positioning capability by adjusting signal parameters rather than deploying separate dedicated infrastructure.
3Reliability
If devices are used as flexible reference points for positioning, then positioning support is improved in areas with limited infrastructure, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables devices to serve as positioning reference points for other devices without requiring complex processing capabilities. The positioning reference signals are transmitted by devices in a controlled manner, and other devices can use these signals for positioning. This self-service approach allows devices to contribute to network positioning functionality without significantly increasing individual device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided mechanisms for providing location information in a communications network. A method is performed by a first device. The first device supports positioning of other devices in the communications network. The method comprises acquiring positioning reference signal configuration from a radio network node in the communications network. The method comprises acquiring location information from a local positioning entity. The method comprises providing the location information to at least one of a radio network node and a second device in the communications network. The method comprises transmitting a positioning reference signal according to the positioning reference signal configuration.