Sidelink Positioning Reference Signal Configuration for Weak Coverage
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Solution Overview
Problem
In 5G New Radio (NR) networks, user equipment (UE) may face challenges in determining its location when outside network coverage or with weak signal conditions, as positioning reference signals (PRS) from transmission and reception points (TRPs) are weakened, leading to inaccuracies in location determination.
Innovation Solution
The configuration of sidelink positioning reference signals (SL-PRS) by neighboring assisting UEs, which UE can measure to determine its location, either within or outside network coverage, by receiving SL-PRS resource configurations from a base station or preconfigured resources, allowing for location assistance even in weak signal conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If positioning reference signals are transmitted from base station TRPs, then positioning capability is provided to UEs within network coverage, but positioning accuracy deteriorates when UEs are outside network coverage or in weak signal conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces assisting UEs as intermediary devices that transmit SL-PRS signals to the target UE. These assisting UEs act as mediators between the base station infrastructure and the target UE, enabling positioning measurements even when the target UE is outside direct network coverage or in weak signal conditions. The assisting UEs receive configuration from the base station and relay positioning reference signals locally.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables UEs to serve themselves as positioning reference signal transmitters. Assisting UEs use their own received DL-PRS signals or uplink signals to generate and transmit SL-PRS signals, rather than relying solely on base station TRPs. This self-service mechanism allows UEs to contribute to the positioning infrastructure, improving coverage and reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If SL-PRS resources are configured for multiple assisting UEs, then positioning coverage is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional configuration and coordination requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal positioning mechanism where any UE can potentially act as an assisting UE. The base station configures multiple assisting UEs with the same type of SL-PRS resources, making the system scalable and adaptable. The same configuration framework applies regardless of how many assisting UEs are involved, simplifying the overall system design while improving coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent divides the positioning function into separate components: the base station provides configuration and DL-PRS signals, while multiple assisting UEs independently transmit SL-PRS signals. This segmentation allows the system to scale by adding more assisting UEs without increasing the complexity of individual UE configurations, as each assisting UE operates with a standardized configuration template.
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AI summary
A user equipment (UE) configured to receive a sidelink (SL) positioning reference signal (PRS) resource configuration, wherein the SL-PRS resource configuration indicates one or more SL-PRS resources configured for one or more assisting UEs in a vicinity of the UE, transmit a reference signal (RS) positioning capability and measure SL-PRS transmitted from the one or more assisting UEs.