Parallel Set-Top Box Testing Fixture

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Solution Overview

Problem

Testing multiple set-top boxes for compliance with communications and formatting standards is time-consuming and difficult due to the complexity of evaluating each device individually.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for parallel testing of set-top boxes using a test fixture that includes adapters for interfacing with the devices, processors for executing testing instructions, and micro servers for performing tests, allowing for automated and efficient measurement and display of results.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple set-top boxes are tested individually, then testing accuracy and compliance can be ensured, but testing time and operational complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetesting accuracyVSAvoidtesting time

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The testing system divides multiple set-top boxes into separate testable units within a parallel testing framework, allowing each box to be tested independently while maintaining overall system coordination through the control system

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system merges multiple individual testing operations into a single parallel testing process, where multiple set-top boxes are tested simultaneously using shared hardware resources and coordinated control, reducing total testing time while maintaining individual testing accuracy

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Reliability

If multiple set-top boxes are tested individually, then testing thoroughness can be maintained, but device complexity and difficulty of operation increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetesting thoroughnessVSAvoidtesting system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The testing system employs universal adapters and standardized test interfaces that can work with multiple different set-top box models, reducing the need for model-specific testing equipment and procedures while maintaining comprehensive testing capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The control system acts as an intermediary that manages the complexity of parallel testing operations, coordinating between multiple set-top boxes, test fixtures, and measurement equipment, thereby shielding operators from the underlying system complexity while ensuring thorough testing

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If manual testing procedures are used, then operator control and flexibility are maintained, but operator subjectivity and testing consistency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperator controlVSAvoidtesting consistency

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The automated testing system incorporates feedback mechanisms that systematically collect and analyze test results from multiple set-top boxes, providing objective data that eliminates operator subjectivity while maintaining the ability to adjust test parameters for different device types

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS10187167B2System and method for securing and testing set-top boxes

Publication Date: 2019.01.22 FEDEX SUPPLY CHAIN LOGISTICS & ELECTRONICS INC

AI summary

A system and method for testing multiple set-top boxes. One of the multiple set-top boxes is engaged in a testing platform of the test fixture. The testing platform includes an adapter for interfacing the set-top box with the test fixture. The multiple set-top boxes are automatically tested in parallel. Test results for each of the multiple set-top boxes are measured. The test results for each of the multiple set-top boxes are displayed to a user.