Core Network Function Testing Without Reset

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current core network function testing methods require significant time and may not complete smoothly due to the need for frequent resets and repeated network access tests, especially when the core network function is abnormal, hindering fully automated testing.

Innovation Solution

A method for performing a first test case on a core network functional entity, followed by a batch test without resetting the entity if it passes, and including connectivity tests to determine if the entity is abnormal, using a test device with a processor and transceiver to execute these tests efficiently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If frequent resets and repeated network access tests are performed on the core network function entity, then testing completeness and reliability are improved, but testing time increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting completenessVSAvoidtesting time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The test device performs a network access test before the batch test to preliminarily verify the core network function entity's accessibility. This preliminary action ensures that the entity is in a testable state before proceeding with the batch test, eliminating the need for repeated network access tests during the batch testing process, thus reducing overall testing time while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The batch test is designed to execute multiple second test cases continuously without resetting the core network function entity between them. This continuous testing approach maintains the entity's state throughout the batch test, avoiding interruptions and resets that would otherwise extend testing time, while still ensuring comprehensive coverage through multiple test cases

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

2Reliability

If the core network function entity is reset before each batch test, then testing reliability is improved, but automation difficulty increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting reliabilityVSAvoidautomation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSExtent of automation

Solution Approach 1:

The network access test is performed as a preliminary step before the batch test to verify the entity's accessibility. This preliminary verification ensures reliability without requiring manual intervention or complex reset procedures, making the entire process suitable for full automation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The test device automatically manages the testing process including executing the network access test, determining whether to proceed with the batch test, and handling the core network function entity throughout the testing sequence. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual reset operations, enabling full automation while maintaining testing reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12088485B2Method for testing core network function entity, testing device and non-transitory computer-readable medium
Publication Date: 2024.09.10 INSTITUTE FOR INFORMATION INDUSTRY
  • US12088485B2 patent drawing
  • US12088485B2 patent drawing
  • US12088485B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for testing a core network function entity in a mobile communication system is disclosed. The method includes: performing a first test case on the core network function entity; and directly performing an integrated test with plural second test cases on the core network function entity without resetting the core network function entity in a condition where the core network function entity passes the first test case.