Satellite Terminal Location Using Reference Signal Time Differences
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge of determining the location of a terminal device in a 3GPP satellite communication system is unresolved, hindering location verification and necessitating a solution to ensure accurate service provision based on geographical location.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a first communication apparatus obtaining information such as arrival times and positions of reference signals at a satellite to determine the location of a third communication apparatus, utilizing time difference and position information to deduce the location, potentially with feeder link delays and forwarding delays accounted for.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If satellite communication is introduced into 5G communication system, then coverage area and reliability are improved, but location determination capability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a location management function and reference signal mechanism as intermediaries between the satellite communication system and location determination requirements. The location management function coordinates reference signal transmission between network devices and terminal devices through satellites, enabling location determination without native satellite location capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the satellite communication system to perform multiple functions including both communication and location determination. By utilizing existing satellite infrastructure for reference signal transmission and reception, the system achieves location determination capability while maintaining its primary communication function.
2Area of stationary object
If reference signals are transmitted via satellite, then communication coverage is extended, but signal transmission time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary actions by having network devices and terminal devices transmit reference signals at predetermined times and using predetermined subcarriers. This structured approach allows the system to account for and compensate for the extended transmission time through careful timing coordination and delay calculation.
3Measurement precision
If location determination is implemented in satellite communication system, then service accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by having terminal devices autonomously measure reference signal reception times and calculate their own locations based on predetermined reference signal transmission times. Network devices similarly self-determine their locations using reference signals from other network devices, reducing the need for complex centralized location calculation infrastructure.
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
Enhances the accuracy of location determination in satellite communication systems by accounting for satellite-specific delays, thereby enabling precise location verification of terminal devices.
Implementation Method 1
the satellite is configured to forward the first reference signal and the second reference signal
Implementation Method 2
a first communication apparatus obtains first information, where the first information includes at least one of time required for a first reference signal to arrive at a third communication apparatus from a satellite, time required for a second reference signal to arrive at the satellite from the third communication apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
A first communication apparatus determines first information, or receives the first information from a second communication apparatus or a third communication apparatus, where the first information includes at least one of time required for a first reference signal to arrive at the third communication apparatus from a satellite, time required for a second reference signal to arrive at the satellite from the third communication apparatus, a position at which the satellite sends the first reference signal, and a position at which the satellite receives the second reference signal, the second communication apparatus communicates with the third communication apparatus via the satellite. The first communication apparatus determines a location of the third communication apparatus based on the first information, where the third communication apparatus includes the terminal device.