Cross-Platform Bridge Components for Multi-DUT Test Orchestration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional testing systems for end-user electronic devices require significant setup time and cost due to the need to change hardware and software when testing different types of devices, and they face integration difficulties and inefficiencies due to disjointed software and hardware components, leading to complex communication and increased points of failure.
Innovation Solution
A cross-platform bridge component that acts as an orchestrator, enabling seamless two-way communication and testing across multiple platforms and device types, using a computing unit with compatible operating systems and interfaces to execute test programs without requiring ecosystem resets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional testing systems use specialized hardware and software for each device type, then testing accuracy and compatibility are improved, but setup time and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The test system employs a universal test interface board that can accommodate multiple device types through configurable connection interfaces and adaptable test programs. The system uses a single hardware platform that can be programmed to support different device protocols and communication methods, eliminating the need for dedicated hardware for each device type while maintaining testing accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes software parameters, communication protocols, and test configurations dynamically based on the device being tested. By modifying software settings rather than hardware architecture, the system adapts to different device types quickly without requiring physical reconfiguration, thus reducing setup time while preserving testing reliability
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional testing systems use specialized hardware and software for each device type, then device compatibility is improved, but testing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a universal test interface board with configurable connection interfaces that can work with multiple device types. Instead of manufacturing dedicated hardware for each device, the system achieves device compatibility through software configuration and adaptable test programs, significantly reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses software-based device models and simulated interfaces that replicate the behavior of different device types. This allows the same physical hardware to be configured to match various device characteristics through software copying of interface behaviors, eliminating the need for expensive specialized hardware while maintaining compatibility
3Adaptability or versatility
If testing systems use disjointed software and hardware components, then system flexibility is improved, but integration complexity and points of failure increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges previously separate components into an integrated architecture where the test interface board, control software, and device drivers work as a unified system. This integration reduces the number of interfaces and communication protocols that need to be managed, simplifying the system while maintaining flexibility through programmable test sequences and configurable parameters
Data Source
AI summary
A bridging component is implemented as a computing unit that includes a first communications interface, a second communications interface, and a processor. The computing unit can receive, from one or more external systems that are communicatively coupled to the computing unit, test programs for testing DUTs that are communicatively coupled to the computing unit. The computing unit can also transmit commands for executing the test programs to the DUTs, can receive test results from the DUTs, and can transmit test results to the appropriate external system(s). Furthermore, the computing unit can determine, for each set of one or more of the DUTs, a respective type of DUTs in the set, associate a respective test program with the set, and issue commands for executing the respective test program to the DUT(s) in the set using an operating system that is compatible with the respective type of DUT(s) in the set.