Simulated Device Testing Using Shared Memory Protocol
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing DUT testing methods rely on completed device development, limiting productivity and scalability, and are unable to test a wide range of variables in a simulated environment before the actual device is available.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a method that simulates a memory-based communication protocol using shared memory spaces and PCIe communication bus protocols, allowing for early testing and debugging of DUTs through software simulation, enabling testing of multiple variables and improving robustness and scalability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If DUT testing is performed using existing methods that require completed device development, then testing can be conducted on actual hardware, but productivity is limited and debugging must wait for device availability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a simulated DUT that allows test programs to be developed, executed, and debugged before the actual device is available. The simulation environment pre-performs testing activities that would otherwise have to wait for hardware completion, enabling earlier detection of software defects and protocol issues.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a software-based copy of the DUT that replicates the device's memory interface and communication protocols. This virtual copy allows comprehensive testing of test programs without requiring the physical device, maintaining testing effectiveness while eliminating hardware dependency.
2Reliability
If testing is performed only after DUT development is complete, then actual device behavior can be tested, but the testing process cannot begin until the device is ready
Solution Approach 1:
The simulated DUT enables preliminary testing and validation of test programs, communication protocols, and data formats before the actual device is available. This early preparation ensures that testing methodologies are correct and complete, improving reliability while accelerating the overall development timeline.
Solution Approach 2:
The simulation environment is designed to dynamically replicate the actual DUT's behavior, memory operations, and protocol responses. This dynamic simulation provides sufficiently accurate device behavior for comprehensive testing while allowing the system to adapt to different device configurations and scenarios.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing testing methods are used that modify DUT properties at a given time, then specific test cases can be executed, but only certain properties can be tested in isolation
Solution Approach 1:
The simulated DUT provides a universal testing platform that can replicate multiple device properties, configurations, and operational modes within a single software environment. This multi-functional simulation allows comprehensive testing of various DUT characteristics without requiring multiple physical devices or complex reconfiguration procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a method of simulating a memory-based communication protocol for testing a simulated device. The method includes storing data in known locations of a host data buffer, where the host data buffer is implemented in a shared memory space, executing instructions of a first program to store a command in the shared memory space using a data structure including an index, an ID, and a memory location, executing instructions of a second program to read the command from the host data buffer, access the data in the shared memory space to perform an operation defined by the ID using the data, where a location of the data is indicated by the index, and send a completion indicator to the first program after the operation is complete.