Concurrent Test Framework Using Derived Classes for DUT Blocks

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for concurrent testing of electronic devices are inefficient and costly due to the complexity of managing diverse test code for independent functional blocks, requiring manual work to combine code and lack of tools to easily sequence execution across multiple libraries, leading to code duplication and difficulties in transitioning between standalone and concurrent testing modes.

Innovation Solution

A programming framework that uses derived classes based on a base test class to generate test objects, allowing for dynamic combination of test code from different libraries for concurrent execution, with a hierarchical class structure and TestFlow interface for seamless transition between standalone and concurrent testing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual code combination methods are used for concurrent testing, then testing functionality can be achieved, but the time and effort required for testing increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting efficiencyVSAvoidtime required for code combination
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments test code into separate libraries, each containing test code for a specific functional block. This segmentation allows independent development and maintenance of test code for different blocks, eliminating the need for manual combination and significantly reducing the time and effort required for concurrent testing setup.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal testing framework that can automatically manage and execute test code from multiple libraries concurrently. This framework provides multi-functional capabilities including automatic code combination, execution sequencing, and result aggregation, making the system adaptable to different testing scenarios without requiring manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If diverse test code from multiple libraries is combined manually, then concurrent testing can be implemented, but code duplication increases and maintenance becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconcurrent testing capabilityVSAvoidcode management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Test code is divided into separate, independent libraries corresponding to different functional blocks. Each library maintains its own test code without duplication, and the segmentation enables independent maintenance and updates of each block's test code while preserving concurrent testing capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces an intermediary testing framework that automatically manages the combination and execution of test code from multiple libraries. This intermediary layer handles code integration and sequencing, eliminating the need for manual code combination and reducing code duplication while maintaining adaptability to various testing scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If traditional testing approaches are used, then standalone testing works reliably, but transitioning to concurrent testing mode is difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting consistencyVSAvoidmode transition flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The testing framework is designed with universal capabilities that support both standalone and concurrent testing modes through a unified interface. The same framework infrastructure handles both modes, allowing seamless transitions between them without requiring separate codebases or manual reconfiguration, thus maintaining reliability while enhancing adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic mode switching capabilities where the testing framework can adapt its behavior based on the selected mode (standalone or concurrent). The framework dynamically adjusts its execution strategy, resource allocation, and code combination approach according to the operational mode, enabling flexible transitions while maintaining consistent and reliable testing outcomes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS9164859B2Computing device for enabling concurrent testing
Publication Date: 2015.10.20 QUALCOMM INC
  • US9164859B2 patent drawing
  • US9164859B2 patent drawing
  • US9164859B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for enabling concurrent testing is described. The method includes generating a plurality of test objects on a computing device. The plurality of test objects is generated using derived classes that are based on a base test class and each of the plurality of test objects corresponds to a separate block in a Device Under Test (DUT). The method also includes adding the plurality of test objects to a queue and sending information based on the plurality of test objects to an Automated Test Equipment (ATE). The method also includes causing the ATE to concurrently test the separate blocks in the DUT using the plurality of test objects.