Antenna Array TOD Compensation for Broad-Beam Positioning Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile communication systems face challenges in achieving centimeter-level positioning accuracy due to dynamic antenna array phase center offsets caused by factors such as UE form-factor design, materials, and beam steering angles, which impair the precision of UL and DL measurements in 5G networks.
Innovation Solution
A network-assisted procedure for dynamic antenna array angular phase deviation compensation, where the UE reports TOD compensation values to the serving gNB and LMF, allowing the LMF to calibrate RTT computations and compensate for phase center offsets in both multi-RTT and UL-TDOA positioning methods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dynamic antenna array phase center offsets are not compensated, then device complexity is reduced, but positioning precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-calculating and storing phase compensation values in lookup tables (LUTs) for different beam steering angles and antenna configurations. The UE reports pre-determined phase center offset compensation values to the gNB, which are then applied during positioning measurements. This approach prepares compensation data in advance, eliminating the need for real-time complex calculations during actual positioning operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism by having the UE report phase compensation values to the gNB, which then uses these values to correct positioning measurements. The gNB acts as an intermediary that collects compensation data from the UE and applies it during RTT and TDOA calculations, separating the complex phase measurement function from the positioning calculation function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If broad beam configuration is used, then adaptability is improved, but positioning precision deteriorates due to phase variations across the beam
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by providing different phase compensation values for different spatial directions and beam steering angles. Instead of using a single uniform compensation value, the system stores and applies specific compensation values tailored to each beam direction and antenna element configuration. This allows the system to maintain high positioning accuracy for each local beam direction while preserving overall broad beam adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by enabling the system to adaptively select and apply appropriate phase compensation values based on the current beam steering angle and antenna configuration. The compensation values are dynamically chosen from pre-stored LUTs based on the active beam direction, allowing the system to optimize positioning accuracy for each beam configuration while maintaining broad beam flexibility.
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AI summary
Systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for dynamic antenna array angular phase deviation compensation for broad beam positioning. For example, certain embodiments may provide for multi-round trip time (multi-RTT) positioning where a user equipment (UE) may report time of departure (TOD) compensation values to a serving gNB and/or location management function (LMF). The LMF may calibrate the RTT computation with the received TOD compensation values. As another example, certain embodiments may provide for uplink time difference of arrival (UL-TDOA) positioning where an LMF may signal calculated assistance information to the UE to request time of departure TOD compensation values. The UE may report the TOD compensation values to a location management function (LMF), and the LMF may compensate initial relative time of arrival (RTOA) estimates using the TOD compensation values.