Unified Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial Positioning with UE Power Modes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems face challenges in integrating terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks for positioning due to separate and independent positioning practices, which affect positioning accuracy and efficiency, especially for low-end UEs with limited resources.
Innovation Solution
A framework of UE power modes is introduced, allowing UEs to transition between terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks based on handshaking and positioning accuracy monitoring, enabling dynamic switching of positioning reference signals and prioritization mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate and independent positioning practices are used for terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks, then each network can maintain its own positioning methodology, but positioning accuracy and efficiency deteriorate due to inability to integrate and adapt between networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges terrestrial and non-terrestrial positioning practices into a unified framework. The gNB can select from multiple positioning reference signals including terrestrial TRP signals and non-terrestrial satellite signals, combining their strengths to achieve both network-based and satellite-based positioning capabilities simultaneously, thereby improving positioning accuracy and adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning reference signal is designed with multi-functionality to serve both terrestrial and non-terrestrial networks. The same signal structure and measurement procedures can be applied across different network types, allowing a single UE to perform positioning measurements in diverse environments without requiring separate specialized systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If low-end UEs with limited resources implement multiple spatial Rx filters for different reference signals, then positioning capability is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the positioning reference signals into distinct types (terrestrial TRP signals and non-terrestrial satellite signals) with different identification methods. This allows the UE to process signals in a structured manner, separating the identification and measurement functions to reduce processing complexity while maintaining positioning capability
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring full implementation of all possible spatial filters for all signal types, the patent enables UEs to perform positioning measurements selectively based on the available reference signals and network configuration. This partial action approach allows low-end UEs to achieve sufficient positioning accuracy without implementing all possible spatial processing capabilities
3Measurement precision
If link quality drops for one reference signal, then positioning measurement accuracy deteriorates, but the system lacks mechanisms to compensate or switch to alternative signals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the parameter of signal selection based on link quality conditions. When terrestrial reference signals experience poor link quality, the system can switch to or incorporate non-terrestrial satellite reference signals, which may have better availability and reliability in certain environments, thereby maintaining positioning accuracy and information integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the UE reports measurement results and link quality information to the network. This feedback enables the network to adjust the positioning reference signal selection dynamically, choosing alternative signals when current signals deteriorate, thus maintaining reliable positioning information
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present application relate to removing the separateness and independence of positioning practices implemented for terrestrial networks and the positioning practices implemented for non-terrestrial networks. In part, a new framework of user equipment (UE) machine states is introduced. Each of the UE power modes may be associated with specific functions. A UE and a transmit receive point (TRP) may engage in handshaking that includes the UE transmitting a request to change from a first UE power mode to a second UE power mode. Responsive to the request, the UE may receive, from the TRP, a response. The response may include information to allow the UE to perform one or more functions associated with the second UE power mode. Among the UE power modes may be a low power mode, wherein the UE carries out functions limited to little more than positioning.