Test Apparatus Control for Overlapping Test Result Processing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional test apparatuses process test results in the order they are received, leading to specific processes not being executed in the intended order of test item execution, which can result in inefficient testing and prolonged testing times.

Innovation Solution

A test apparatus with a control apparatus that stores and executes the execution order of test programs, allowing for predetermined result processes to be performed in the correct order, even when overlapping or parallel tests are conducted, by using a system where test modules communicate with the device under test and transmit results for processing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If test results are processed in the order they are received, then processing is simple and straightforward, but result processes are not executed in the intended order of test items

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveprocessing simplicityVSAvoidexecution order correctness

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The control apparatus stores the execution order of test programs in advance before receiving test results. This preliminary recording of the intended execution sequence enables the system to later retrieve and follow this stored order when processing results, ensuring that result processes are executed in the correct intended order rather than merely in receipt order.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

2Productivity

If tests are conducted in parallel or overlapping manner, then testing efficiency is improved, but it becomes difficult to maintain the correct execution order of result processes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetesting efficiencyVSAvoidexecution order correctness

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The execution order of multiple test programs is recorded in advance in the control apparatus before parallel or overlapping tests are conducted. This pre-recorded sequence information serves as a reference that allows the system to maintain correct execution order of result processes even when tests are performed in parallel or overlapping manner, thus preserving reliability while enabling productivity improvement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Reliability

If the execution order of test programs is recorded and followed, then result processes are executed in the correct order, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveexecution order correctnessVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control apparatus uses its own existing resources (storage and processing capabilities) to record and manage the execution order of test programs. By utilizing internally available functions rather than requiring external complex systems, the apparatus maintains execution order correctness while minimizing additional system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9201750B2Test apparatus and test module

Publication Date: 2015.12.01 ADVANTEST CORP

AI summary

Provided is a test apparatus that tests a device under test, comprising a test module that communicates with the device under test to test the device under test; and a control apparatus that executes a plurality of test programs, causes the test module to perform tests corresponding respectively to the test programs, receives test results from the test module, and performs predetermined result processes on the test results. The control apparatus stores an execution order of the test programs, and executes at least a portion of the result processes in an order indicated by the stored execution order.