Gas Detector Firmware Testing Using Simulated Sensor Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas detector devices face challenges in testing critical firmware functionalities due to the need for actual gases, which pose risks, environmental concerns, and infrastructure limitations.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that simulate gas sensor data using Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) count values stored locally, enabling firmware functionality testing without actual gases by applying selected test data to generate output signals and compare them to expected outputs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If actual gas is used for testing gas detector devices, then the testing can verify real-world gas detection capabilities, but it poses safety risks, environmental concerns, and infrastructure limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of gas sensor data by generating simulated sensor data that replicates real gas detection signals. This virtual copy allows firmware testing without exposing the system to actual hazardous gases, while still enabling verification of gas detection functionality through comparable data patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces simulated sensor data as an intermediary between the testing system and the actual gas detection function. This intermediary allows the firmware to be tested with fake data that mimics real gas sensor outputs, eliminating the need for physical gas while preserving testing validity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If actual gas is used for testing, then firmware functionalities can be tested in real conditions, but infrastructure requirements and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent generates virtual copies of gas sensor data through simulation, replacing the need for physical gas infrastructure. The simulated sensor data can be stored locally or generated on-demand, eliminating requirements for gas storage facilities, handling equipment, and safety infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/physical system of actual gas delivery and handling with a digital simulation system. Instead of using physical gas infrastructure, the system uses software-generated data that replicates gas sensor signals, substituting physical complexity with computational simplicity.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If simulated sensor data is used for testing, then safety risks and infrastructure needs are reduced, but the ability to test critical firmware functionalities may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent carefully adjusts parameters of the simulated sensor data to match real gas detection characteristics. By varying parameters such as gas concentration levels, detection thresholds, and signal patterns, the simulation maintains fidelity to real-world conditions while eliminating physical hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the simulated sensor data is processed through the firmware, and the outputs are validated against expected results. This feedback loop ensures that the simulation accurately reflects real gas detection behavior, maintaining testing validity while using safe virtual data.
Data Source
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AI summary
Various embodiments are directed to methods, apparatuses, and systems for performing firmware functionality testing of a gas detector device, comprising: for each gas of one or more gases; applying selected test data from test data stored locally on the gas detector device, wherein the selected test data comprise simulated sensor data and is selected based at least in part on the gas; generating one or more output signals based at least in part on processing the selected test data; and generating testing output data based at least in part on comparing the one or more output signals to one or more expected output signals for the selected test data, wherein the testing output data comprise data indicative of performance of one or more firmware functionalities of the gas detector device with respect to the gas.