Multi-Device Mobile Testing Apparatus for Parallel Test Throughput

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Solution Overview

Problem

Testing multiple mobile devices simultaneously is complex, time-consuming, and costly due to their increasing sophistication and miniaturization, which complicates the evaluation of their operability.

Innovation Solution

A mobile device testing apparatus comprising retention devices, test computers, and a user computer, allowing for simultaneous testing of multiple mobile devices through a framework of device cabinets, test cabinets, and control cabinets with integrated test applications that assess various functionalities.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If multiple mobile devices are tested individually, then testing thoroughness is maintained, but testing time and cost increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting thoroughnessVSAvoidtesting time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The testing system is segmented into multiple independent test stations, each capable of testing one mobile device simultaneously. Each test station includes a test computer, retention device, and necessary test equipment, allowing parallel execution of identical test protocols on multiple devices without compromising testing thoroughness

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple test stations are merged into a unified testing framework that shares common infrastructure elements such as the control computer, software licensing, and test protocols. This consolidation allows simultaneous testing of multiple devices while reducing overall system cost and complexity compared to completely independent test setups

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Productivity

If multiple mobile devices are tested simultaneously using individual setups, then testing throughput increases, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting throughputVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The test computers and retention devices are designed as universal, multi-functional units that can test various types of mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, wearables) using the same hardware platform. This universality allows high testing throughput without proportionally increasing system complexity, as the same equipment handles diverse device types

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

A control computer acts as an intermediary between the operator and multiple test computers, centralizing control and coordination functions. This intermediary manages test scheduling, result aggregation, and system configuration, allowing simultaneous testing of multiple devices without requiring complex direct control of each individual test station

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Measurement precision

If traditional testing methods are used for sophisticated mobile devices, then testing accuracy is maintained, but testing cost and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting accuracyVSAvoidtesting cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses software-based test protocols and virtual instrumentation that can be replicated across multiple test stations without requiring expensive custom hardware for each station. Test procedures are copied and executed digitally, maintaining measurement precision while significantly reducing the cost of deploying multiple test capabilities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS10188207B2Apparatus and method for simultaneously testing a plurality of mobile devices
Publication Date: 2019.01.29 COMMUNICATIONS TEST DESIGN INC
  • US10188207B2 patent drawing
  • US10188207B2 patent drawing
  • US10188207B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus and method for simultaneously testing a plurality of mobile devices is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a plurality of retention devices, a plurality of test computers, a plurality of mobile devices each positioned in one retention device and electrically connected to one of the plurality of test computers, and a user computer electrically connected to the plurality of test computers.