Configurable Test Infrastructure for Automated Network Testing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Network testing is inefficient due to the time and resource-intensive nature of manually changing physical connections between systems under test and test infrastructure, making it difficult to test using different environments or infrastructures.

Innovation Solution

A configurable test infrastructure (CTI) with dynamically programmable devices that can act as packet switches, test packet generators, telemetry processors, or traffic visibility elements, allowing for automated configuration and operation to streamline test sessions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual connection changes are used to configure test infrastructure for different environments, then test operator control is maintained, but testing efficiency and speed deteriorate due to time-consuming manual reconfiguration

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetesting efficiencyVSAvoidtime for reconfiguration

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical connection changes with automated software-controlled configuration. The system uses computer-readable instructions to automatically configure test infrastructure elements (packet switches, signal generators, analyzers) without requiring physical cable reconnection or manual intervention, thereby eliminating the time loss associated with manual reconfiguration while maintaining full testing efficiency.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements dynamic reconfigurability of the test infrastructure through software control. The system can dynamically adjust the configuration of test elements, routing, and connections based on different test scenarios without physical changes. This dynamic capability allows rapid switching between different test environments, significantly improving productivity while minimizing reconfiguration time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple different infrastructure configurations are tested using manual setup, then comprehensive testing coverage is achieved, but human resource requirements and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetesting coverageVSAvoidinfrastructure configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal test infrastructure platform that can be configured through software to perform multiple different test scenarios. The system uses a common set of test elements that can be programmatically reconfigured to simulate various network environments, infrastructure types, and test conditions. This multi-functionality approach achieves comprehensive testing coverage without requiring separate dedicated hardware for each test type, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses virtualization and simulation techniques to create software-based copies of different infrastructure configurations. Instead of physically setting up multiple complete infrastructure environments, the system creates virtual representations of various network topologies, devices, and conditions that can be rapidly instantiated and configured through software, achieving comprehensive testing coverage with reduced physical complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Reliability

If physical connections are manually changed between test sessions, then accurate physical setup is achieved, but human error and resource intensity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveconnection accuracyVSAvoidoperation simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual physical connection operations with automated software-controlled configuration. The system uses digital routing and electronic switching to establish test connections, eliminating the need for manual cable plugging and unplugging. This substitution maintains high connection accuracy through precise software control while dramatically simplifying operations by removing the need for physical manual intervention, thereby improving both reliability and ease of operation simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS11405302B1Methods, systems, and computer readable media for network testing using configurable test infrastructure

Publication Date: 2022.08.02 KEYSIGHT TECHNOLOGIES INC

AI summary

According to one method, the method occurs at a test system implemented using at least one processor. The method includes receiving test configuration information associated with a test session for configuring a test infrastructure connecting at least one test application and a system under test (SUT), wherein the test infrastructure includes at least two CTI devices that are dynamically configurable to perform one or more test related functions; configuring, using test configuration information, the test infrastructure to handle traffic for the test session; initiating the test session, wherein the test session involves using the at least two CTI devices and the at least one test application to test the SUT; and obtaining and reporting test results associated with the test session.