Browser-Based Remote Control of Functional Testing Tools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing software testing tools require direct physical access to the computer being tested and store test scripts as files, limiting remote and distributed testing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A browser-based remote control system that uses a servlet to communicate with a server, allowing remote invocation, monitoring, and termination of functional testing tools, with test scripts stored as binary large objects (BLOBs) in a database for searchable and manipulable metadata.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If direct physical access to the computer being tested is required, then the testing tool can be controlled and monitored locally, but remote and distributed testing capabilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a server as an intermediary component that mediates between the browser-based control interface and the functional testing tool. The server receives commands from the browser, executes them through the testing tool, and returns results, enabling remote control without requiring direct physical access to the tested computer. This intermediary architecture resolves the contradiction by maintaining local control capabilities while enabling remote access.
2Ease of manufacture
If test scripts are stored as files on the computer, then the testing tool can access and execute them locally, but remote access and distributed storage are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from storing test scripts as physical files to storing them as binary large objects (BLOBs) in a database. This creates a virtual copy of the test script that can be accessed remotely through the network without requiring physical file system access. The database stores the test script data and provides it to the server upon request, enabling distributed storage and remote access while maintaining the functionality of local execution.
3Productivity
If recorded keystrokes and actions are stored on the computer, then the testing tool can replay them locally, but remote retrieval and search capabilities are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The database serves as an intermediary between the recorded test actions and the browser-based interface. Instead of storing recordings locally on the computer, the database stores them as searchable data structures. The server queries the database for required recordings and retrieves them for playback, enabling remote access and search capabilities while maintaining the local replay functionality through the server's mediation.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methodologies, media, and other embodiments associated with browser based remote control of functional testing tools are described. One exemplary method embodiment includes receiving requests from a browser to control (e.g., start, stop) a functional testing tool. The example method may also include retrieving a test script to be an input for the functional testing tool and providing the test script to the functional testing tool. The example method is a server based method that resides logically between the browser and the functional testing tool.