INFOCOM NG-OPERA 2025, 3rd Workshop on Next-generation Open and Programmable Radio Access Networks, in conjunction with IEEE International Conference on Computer Communications, 19 May 2025, London, United Kingdom
This paper presents, for the first time, an opensource implementation of the 3GPP uplink time difference of arrival (UL-TDoA) positioning method using the OpenAirInterface (OAI) framework. UL-TDoA is a critical positioning technique in 5G networks, leveraging the time differences of signal arrival at multiple base stations to determine the precise location of user equipment (UE). This implementation aims to democratize access to advanced positioning technology by integrating UL-TDoA capabilities into both the radio access network (RAN) and core network (CN) components of OAI, providing a comprehensive and 3GPP-compliant solution. The development includes the incorporation of essential protocol procedures, message flows, and interfaces as defined by 3GPP standards. Validation is conducted using two distinct methods: an OAI-RF simulator-based setup for controlled testing and an O-RAN-based localization testbed at EURECOM in real-world conditions. The results demonstrate the viability of this open-source UL-TDoA implementation, enabling precise positioning in various environments. By making this implementation publicly available, the study paves the way for widespread research, development, and innovation in the field of 6G positioning technologies, fostering collaboration and accelerating the advancement of cellular network positioning.
Type:
Conference
City:
London
Date:
2025-05-19
Department:
Communication systems
Eurecom Ref:
8118
Copyright:
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