Automated Test Script Generation via Keyword Templates

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional automated testing of computer applications requires programming knowledge in specific scripting languages, making the process time-consuming and costly, and prone to errors due to the need for specialized skills and debugging.

Innovation Solution

A system that generates automated testing scripts using a test case template with keyword inputs and selections, allowing users to define test scenarios without scripting language knowledge, and converts these into executable scripts through a keyword function library.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If automated testing scripts are created using conventional scripting languages, then the testing can be automated and executed efficiently, but the process requires specialized programming knowledge and becomes time-consuming and costly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveautomation of testingVSAvoidcomplexity of test script creation

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the user and the automated testing system. Instead of requiring users to write complex scripting language code, the system provides a visual or simplified interface that translates user-friendly test definitions into executable automated test scripts. This intermediary translation layer eliminates the need for specialized programming knowledge while maintaining automation capabilities.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical process of writing and debugging scripting language code with an alternative approach using visual interfaces, drag-and-drop operations, or simplified configuration forms. This substitution eliminates the manual coding process while preserving the automated execution capability, thereby reducing both time and expertise requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If automated testing is performed by programmers with scripting language knowledge, then effective test scenarios can be created, but the time and cost of development and execution increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvequality of test scenariosVSAvoidtime for test development

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables non-programmer testers to independently create and execute automated test scenarios using simplified interfaces. The system provides self-service capabilities where users can define test cases, configure test parameters, and generate executable scripts without requiring programmer assistance, thereby reducing development time while maintaining test quality.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements preliminary action by providing pre-configured test templates, libraries of reusable test components, and automated script generation frameworks. These pre-prepared resources allow users to quickly assemble test scenarios without starting from scratch, significantly reducing test development time while ensuring quality through proven templates.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

3Productivity

If conventional automated testing methods are used, then testing can be performed, but the process is prone to errors due to the need for specialized skills and debugging

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetesting executionVSAvoiderror-free test creation

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that provide real-time validation, error checking, and guidance during test scenario creation. The system monitors user actions, validates inputs against predefined rules, and provides immediate feedback on potential errors before execution, thereby preventing errors rather than requiring post-creation debugging.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements beforehand cushioning by incorporating error prevention mechanisms into the test creation process itself. The system validates test definitions, checks for logical errors, and ensures completeness before generating executable scripts, thereby cushioning against potential execution errors and reducing the need for debugging.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS9396098B2Apparatuses, methods, and computer program products for conducting automated tests

Publication Date: 2016.07.19 HARRIS DAWN HLDG INC

AI summary

Apparatuses, methods, and computer program products are provided that conduct an automated test by creating automated testing scripts that are readable by automated testing software without requiring the automated testing scripts to be created by a programmer with knowledge of the particular scripting language used by the automated testing software. Rather, a test case template is generated by receiving input from the user in the form of keywords and selections that are not specified in a particular scripting language. Instructions for converting the test case template into a readable format are accessed by the automated testing software, such that the automated testing software can read the test case template as though it were created in the corresponding scripting language of the automated testing software, thereby allowing the automated testing software to execute the automated test.