Vehicle Test Management Module for Virtual Rail Operation Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle testing methods are inefficient and pose safety risks as they require actual operation of overhead hoist transport apparatuses, preventing automation and increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Innovation Solution
A test management module that automates vehicle testing through a test manager, emulators, and a simulator, allowing virtual testing of vehicles without actual movement, thereby avoiding the need to stop the overhead hoist transport apparatus and reducing safety hazards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the vehicle is tested during actual driving along the driving rail, then the test reflects real operating conditions, but the overhead hoist transport apparatus operation is stopped and safety accidents may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the driving rail environment and vehicle operations through a simulator. The test management module generates virtual test data that mimics real driving conditions, allowing the vehicle to be tested in a virtual environment rather than during actual operation. This copying approach maintains test accuracy while eliminating the need to stop the transport apparatus.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a test management module as an intermediary between the vehicle and the transport apparatus. This module manages testing activities separately from actual operations, coordinating virtual tests without interfering with the transport apparatus workflow. The intermediary layer enables independent test execution that doesn't disrupt normal operations.
2Reliability
If the vehicle is tested during actual driving, then comprehensive operational testing is possible, but the test cannot be automated and requires manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service automation where the test management module automatically generates test lists, creates virtual test data, executes tests, and evaluates results without manual intervention. The system serves itself by autonomously managing the entire testing process, from planning to execution and analysis, while maintaining comprehensive test coverage through automated scenario generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-generating virtual test data and test scenarios before actual testing begins. The test management module prepares comprehensive test cases in advance, including various driving conditions and edge cases, which are then automatically executed. This preliminary preparation enables thorough testing to be automated and executed systematically.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the vehicle test is performed by actually driving the vehicle, then real-world operating conditions are simulated, but safety hazards increase and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a safe virtual copy of the driving environment where all test scenarios can be executed without physical risk. The simulator reproduces real-world conditions including driving rail geometry, vehicle dynamics, and operational scenarios, but in a virtual space where safety accidents cannot occur. This copying enables realistic testing while eliminating safety hazards.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of actual vehicle testing into benefit by using virtual simulation. What would be dangerous in reality (testing moving vehicles on active transport systems) is transformed into a safe virtual environment. The harmful aspect of physical testing is eliminated while the beneficial aspect of comprehensive operational validation is preserved and enhanced through automated virtual scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
A test management module includes a test manager writing a test list, a first emulator controlling an operation of the vehicle according to instruction of the test manager, and a controller controlling an operation of a test station according to instruction of the test manager. The test list includes an event condition to be generated in a vehicle and operation information of the operation of the vehicle, which is performed when the event condition is satisfied, and the operation of the test station provided to virtually test the vehicle.