Automated Firmware Stability Testing via Dynamic Iteration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing device testing protocols are limited in detecting bugs, especially intermittent ones caused by electromagnetic interference, as they cannot reproduce every condition a device may encounter, leading to potential undetected issues in released firmware and hardware.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for automated stability testing of device firmware, where nodes connected to testbenches continuously run tests based on the availability of new firmware builds, allowing for iterative testing without predetermined iteration limits, enabling continuous validation and immediate action on discovered bugs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If test protocols are run for a set number of iterations using a set number of conditions, then the testing process is completed in a predictable time frame, but bugs may not be discovered due to the limited nature of the tests performed
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system dynamically adjusts the number of iterations and test conditions based on bug detection needs. The system can automatically increase iteration counts when intermittent bugs are detected, rather than being fixed in advance. This allows the testing process to adapt its complexity based on actual quality requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous testing operations where test protocols can run indefinitely or until specific quality criteria are met. This continuous action allows intermittent bugs to be detected over extended periods, improving reliability without requiring manual intervention to extend test durations.
2Reliability
If test protocols are extended to cover more conditions and iterations, then more bugs can be detected, but the testing time and resources increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where test results automatically trigger decisions about whether to continue or extend testing. When bugs are detected, the system can automatically increase iteration counts or modify test conditions, creating a closed-loop process that optimizes testing time based on actual quality outcomes rather than predetermined schedules.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing system dynamically changes parameters such as iteration count, test condition variety, and execution speed based on detected bug patterns. For intermittent bugs, the system can automatically increase the time between test iterations or repeat specific conditions, adjusting parameters in real-time to improve detection without linearly increasing total testing time.
3Measurement precision
If manual testing protocols are used to detect intermittent bugs, then specific conditions can be targeted, but the process is time-consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The testing system performs self-adjustment based on detected bug patterns. When intermittent bugs are identified, the system automatically modifies test protocols, increases iterations, or adjusts conditions without human intervention. This self-service capability maintains high detection accuracy while eliminating manual configuration time and reducing human error.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual testing operations with automated electronic control. Test protocols are executed and modified through software rather than manual configuration, eliminating human error in protocol execution while maintaining the ability to target specific bug conditions through automated pattern recognition and adaptive protocol modification.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, system, and computer-program product are provided for automatically performing stability testing on device firmware. The method includes the steps of copying a binary file corresponding to a version of a firmware to one or more nodes that each include a testbench, causing the one or more nodes to perform tests utilizing the version of the firmware, and determining whether a new build of the firmware is available. If the new build is available, then the steps include copying a second binary file corresponding to the new build to the one or more nodes and causing the one or more nodes to perform the tests utilizing the new build. However, if the new build is not available, then the steps include then causing the one or more nodes to perform one or more further iterations of the tests utilizing the version of the firmware.