Test Scheduling Optimizes Prototype Usage
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and time-consuming nature of product testing, particularly for complex products like vehicles, due to the need for numerous tests and the construction of expensive prototypes, which may be damaged or destroyed during the testing process.
Innovation Solution
A test planning system that optimizes the number of prototypes needed and schedules tasks to maximize prototype usage by generating a compatibility list and test schedule using a computing device, minimizing the number of prototypes and days required for testing, thereby reducing costs and resource consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If numerous prototypes are built to complete testing, then testing coverage and reliability are improved, but cost and resource consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making prototypes multi-functional through configurable feature sets. Each prototype can be configured with different combinations of features to serve multiple test scenarios. The system identifies commonalities across test requirements and designs prototypes that can be adapted to fulfill multiple testing functions, thereby reducing the total number of prototypes needed while maintaining comprehensive testing coverage.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by creating a hierarchical structure where base prototypes contain core components that can be nested with additional feature modules. This allows a single base prototype to support multiple test configurations by adding or removing feature modules, effectively creating a nested structure where smaller feature units are integrated into larger prototype systems to reduce overall prototype quantity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex prototypes with multiple features are built to cover all test scenarios, then testing versatility is improved, but construction time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the prototype system into modular feature units that can be independently configured. Instead of building single complex prototypes with all possible features, the system segments functionality into discrete, interchangeable feature modules. This segmentation allows rapid reconfiguration of prototypes for different test scenarios without requiring complete redesign or reconstruction, significantly reducing construction time while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by creating configurable and adaptable prototype systems that can dynamically change their feature composition based on test requirements. The system uses dynamic configuration approaches where prototypes can be quickly reconfigured between test scenarios, allowing the same physical prototype to serve multiple roles. This dynamic adaptability eliminates the need for static, over-engineered prototypes and reduces construction time through efficient resource allocation.
3Ease of operation
If more prototypes are constructed to reduce test scheduling complexity, then scheduling flexibility is improved, but resource consumption and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying prototype configuration parameters to match test requirements. Instead of increasing prototype quantity, the system changes the parameter settings (feature combinations) of existing prototypes to achieve the required scheduling flexibility. The optimization engine explores different parameter configurations to find schedules that maximize prototype utilization while minimizing the number of prototypes needed, thereby maintaining flexibility without increasing resource consumption.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If prototypes are designed to withstand multiple tests, then durability is improved, but test capability and coverage may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by performing test sequencing and compatibility analysis before actual testing begins. The system预先 identifies which tests can be performed on the same prototype and in what order, creating optimized test schedules that maximize prototype utilization. This preliminary planning allows destructive and non-destructive tests to be properly sequenced, extending prototype lifespan while maintaining comprehensive test capability through careful arrangement rather than physical modifications.
Data Source
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AI summary
A set of test requests, a test calendar, and a list of prototype control models are received in a computing device having a processor and a memory. Each of the test requests includes an identifier for one of a plurality of tests to be performed and one or more attributes required to be included in a prototype to be used in the one of the tests. The test calendar includes a test duration and a list of build dates, each of the build dates associated with one of a plurality of prototypes to be available for testing on the respective build date. The list of prototype control models includes a list of possible buildable configurations of the prototypes. A control model compatibility list is generated, including, for each pair of prototypes in the plurality of prototypes, an indication of whether the prototypes in the pair are compatible for tests. A test schedule is generated using at least one of a heuristic and a mathematical optimization.