Automated ADC Device Testing via Keyword-Based Test Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in the automatic data collection (ADC) field is the extensive testing required for new or upgraded ADC devices and components to ensure compatibility with various existing ADC device platforms, leading to increased technical support needs and inefficiencies in the upgrade process.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for automatically determining the functionalities of a target ADC device, identifying relevant tests, executing those tests, and temporarily storing results, utilizing a networked environment with keywords to locate and filter ADC device tests, facilitating efficient testing and validation of ADC devices and platforms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If extensive testing is performed to ensure compatibility of new ADC devices with existing platforms, then reliability is improved, but loss of time and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by automatically executing compatibility tests against multiple existing ADC device platforms before the new ADC device is fully deployed or upgraded. The system pre-identifies compatibility issues through automated testing workflows that run test suites against target platforms, generating reports that highlight potential problems before they affect production use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by providing automated self-testing capabilities where the ADC device platform performs its own compatibility validation without requiring extensive manual intervention from technical support personnel. The automated testing system independently executes tests, analyzes results, and generates compatibility assessments, reducing the burden on human operators.
2Reliability
If comprehensive testing is conducted across multiple ADC device platforms, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a multi-functional testing system that can operate across multiple ADC device platforms simultaneously. The automated testing platform uses standardized test protocols and universal interfaces that work across different hardware configurations, allowing a single testing system to validate compatibility with various barcode readers, RFID readers, magnetic stripe readers, and other ADC devices without requiring platform-specific complex configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system manages complexity through parameter changes by dynamically adjusting test parameters, execution sequences, and validation criteria based on the specific ADC device platform being tested. The automated system modifies testing parameters such as test suite selection, execution timing, and result thresholds according to the target platform characteristics, enabling comprehensive testing while maintaining system manageability through adaptive parameter control.
3Ease of operation
If manual testing and technical support are used for ADC device upgrades, then ease of operation deteriorates, but loss of information is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling the ADC device upgrade process to automatically perform compatibility validation, execute appropriate tests, and generate implementation recommendations without requiring manual technical support intervention. The system autonomously manages the upgrade workflow, including automatic test execution, result analysis, and compatibility certification, significantly improving ease of operation while reducing technical support time requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies feedback by implementing automated feedback loops where test results are immediately analyzed and used to guide subsequent upgrade decisions. The automated testing system provides real-time feedback on compatibility status, automatically adjusts testing parameters based on preliminary results, and delivers actionable recommendations to streamline the upgrade process, eliminating the need for manual iterative testing and technical support consultations.
Data Source
AI summary
Automatic data collection devices such as barcode readers, RFID readers, magnetic stripe readers and the like may be tested using ADC device test executables, modules or processes stored at a variety of network locations. One or more sets of tests or work lists may be defined to facilitate testing. Tests may be identified by name and/or keyword. Keywords may be indicative one or more functionalities tested by the respective ADC device test module.