Automated SLAT Wizard for High-Density Cross-Connect Testing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional System Lineup and Testing (SLAT) processes for high-density cross-connect network elements are excessively time-consuming and prone to errors, requiring weeks to complete and often relying on manual, labor-intensive methods that are inefficient and error-prone.
Innovation Solution
An automated SLAT scheme that accepts user input, guides users through tasks, performs and coordinates SLAT activities, and displays network element information, allowing for parallel task execution and ensuring essential tasks are completed in proper sequence, with features like user collaboration, error reporting, and session persistence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual SLAT processes are used for high-density cross-connect network elements, then thorough testing can be performed, but the SLAT time becomes excessively long (weeks)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical testing processes with an automated software-based system. The SLAT assistant application automatically guides users through testing tasks, performs validations, and coordinates testing sequences, eliminating the need for manual execution of each testing step while maintaining thoroughness.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service testing where the SLAT assistant automatically performs task validation, sequence coordination, and progress tracking without requiring manual intervention for each step. The application self-manages the testing workflow, reducing dependency on manual operations.
2Ease of operation
If manual SLAT processes are used, then flexibility in task execution is maintained, but errors and omissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The SLAT assistant provides continuous feedback to users about task completion status, validation results, and sequencing requirements. The system monitors each testing task and provides real-time information about progress and errors, enabling users to correct issues immediately rather than discovering them later.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary validation of testing tasks before execution, checking for errors and conflicts in advance. The SLAT assistant validates task configurations and sequences beforehand, preventing errors from occurring during the actual testing process.
3Productivity
If automated SLAT is implemented, then SLAT time is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The SLAT assistant application serves as an intermediary between users and the complex testing system. It abstracts the complexity of coordinating multiple testing tasks, validations, and sequences behind a user-friendly interface, allowing users to benefit from automated efficiency without directly managing the underlying system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The SLAT assistant is designed as a universal application that can handle multiple types of testing tasks across different network elements. The single application provides guidance, validation, coordination, and reporting functions, eliminating the need for separate specialized tools for each testing function.
4Loss of time
If parallel task execution is enabled, then SLAT time is further reduced, but coordination complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The SLAT assistant dynamically adjusts the testing sequence based on task dependencies and current system state. It automatically determines which tasks can be executed in parallel and which must be sequential, optimizing the testing schedule in real-time without requiring manual coordination of complex task relationships.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a method and apparatus for system lineup and testing (SLAT) that is suitable for practical high-density cross-connect implementation. Preferably, a software assistant (wizard) guides a user through the various phases of SLAT in an automated fashion, and is able to co-ordinate tasks in a SLAT session possibly being performed at a plurality of locations such that essential tasks in said SLAT session are completed in proper sequence and some tasks of said SLAT session are performed in parallel. The present invention advantageously provides SLAT with the following benefits: support for both local and remote users; supports for multiple users; facility for users to collaborate; production of a report that is saved for reference, providing a persistent record of session data; permitting users to quit, resume and continue an incomplete session; reporting errors to users; SLAT that may be run locally (stand-alone) or remotely (on a server).