Test Case Generation Using Reusable Software Components

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current systems for generating test cases for computer applications are inefficient and require programming knowledge, making it difficult for non-technical employees to thoroughly test and verify application functionality.

Innovation Solution

A system that includes a processor and memory, capable of selecting and combining components to generate test case files without programming expertise, using a graphical user interface to create and execute test cases, automating the process for increased efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional test case generation systems are used, then test cases can be created with programming knowledge, but non-technical employees cannot create test cases efficiently

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveease of test case creationVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a graphical user interface as an intermediary layer between non-technical employees and the complex test case generation system. This interface allows users to select test actions, data sources, and verification methods through visual elements rather than programming code, effectively mediating between user intent and system execution while hiding the underlying complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the traditional mechanical approach of writing programming code with a graphical interface-based system. Instead of manually coding test cases, users interact with visual components and drag-and-drop elements, substituting the mechanical typing and coding process with a more intuitive graphical manipulation approach that reduces the barrier to entry for non-technical users.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If programming knowledge is required for test case creation, then test cases can be generated accurately, but the time and effort required increases significantly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetest case generation efficiencyVSAvoidtime for developing test cases

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements preliminary action by pre-defining test actions, data sources, and verification methods as reusable components within the system. These components are prepared in advance and can be selected and combined by users without requiring them to create them from scratch, significantly reducing the time and effort needed for test case generation while maintaining accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent enables copying of test case templates and components that have been previously created and validated. Users can replicate successful test case patterns across different applications and scenarios, reducing the time required to develop new test cases while ensuring consistency and accuracy through proven templates.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Reliability

If custom test case development is performed manually, then specific testing requirements can be met, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetesting coverageVSAvoidtime for test case implementation

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements universality by designing a flexible framework where a single test case can incorporate multiple test actions, data sources, and verification methods. The system allows test cases to be configured for different applications and scenarios using the same core components, enabling comprehensive testing coverage while reducing the overall time and effort required through reusable multi-functional templates.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8984339B2System and method for test case generation using components

Publication Date: 2015.03.17 BANK OF AMERICA CORP

AI summary

In an exemplary embodiment, a system includes a memory and a processor communicatively coupled to the memory. The processor is operable to receive a first indication that a first component is selected from a plurality of components and receive a second indication that a second component is selected from the plurality of components. The processor is further operable to determine a first instruction associated with the first component, wherein the first instruction corresponds to first computer logic for executing the first at least one test action, and determine a second instruction associated with the second component, wherein the second instruction corresponds to second computer logic for executing the second at least one test action. The processor is also operable to generate a test case file comprising the first instruction and the second instruction and associate the test case file with an application under test.