Automated Automation Script Conversion Between Frameworks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Software engineers face significant challenges in transitioning automation scripts from one framework to another, as existing methods require extensive rewriting and testing, which is time-consuming and inefficient, especially when moving to new virtualized delivery and deployment models like IBM SmartCloud Continuous Delivery.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that automatically converts an existing automation script from one framework to another by executing both versions in parallel, comparing outputs to expected unit test results, and validating the new script to ensure it functions correctly in the new framework, thereby streamlining the process and making scripts platform-independent.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If automation scripts are manually rewritten and tested when transitioning to a new framework, then the scripts can be adapted to the new framework, but the process becomes time-consuming and inefficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveframework compatibilityVSAvoidconversion time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a copy of the original automation script and uses it as a template for generating the new framework version. The conversion module copies the script structure, logic, and functionality from the original framework while systematically adapting it to the target framework, avoiding manual rewriting and significantly reducing conversion time

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent performs preliminary actions by first identifying the original framework and target framework, then automatically generating the converted script before validation. The conversion module prepares the script in advance with framework-specific adaptations, and only then executes validation tests, streamlining the overall conversion process

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If extensive testing is performed to ensure script validity in the new framework, then the converted script functions correctly, but the validation process increases time and effort

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvescript validityVSAvoidvalidation time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the validation module automatically executes test cases and compares outputs from both original and converted scripts. This feedback loop quickly identifies discrepancies and validates functionality, reducing validation time while maintaining high reliability through systematic comparison and error detection

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The validation module performs self-service by automatically executing test cases, comparing results, and determining script validity without requiring extensive manual intervention. The system serves itself by autonomously validating the converted script against expected outcomes, significantly reducing the time and effort needed for validation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If automation scripts are converted to work across multiple frameworks, then platform independence is achieved, but the complexity of managing multiple framework versions increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveplatform independenceVSAvoidframework management complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal conversion module that can handle multiple framework conversions through a standardized process. The same conversion module identifies original frameworks, determines target frameworks, and applies appropriate conversion rules regardless of which specific frameworks are involved, making the system multi-functional and reducing management complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent manages framework diversity by changing parameters such as framework identification, conversion rules, and validation criteria based on the specific original and target frameworks. The system adapts its behavior by modifying these parameters rather than requiring separate complex management structures for each framework combination

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10042744B2Adopting an existing automation script to a new framework

Publication Date: 2018.08.07 INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE CORPORATION

AI summary

Arrangements described herein relate to adopting an existing automation script to a new framework. A first version of an automation script configured to execute in a first framework, and expected unit test results for the automation script, are received. A second version of the automation script is created from the first version of the automation script. The second version of the automation script is configured to execute in at least a second framework. The first version of the automation script is executed in the first framework to run a first version of a unit test and the second version of the automation script is executed in the second framework to run a second version of the unit test. Results generated by execution of the first and second versions of the automation script are analyzed to validate the second version of the automation script.