Virtual Network Function Testing via Usage Pattern Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for testing virtual network functions are inefficient and unreliable due to the variability in context and deployment environments, leading to the need for extensive and unnecessary test case execution.
Innovation Solution
A method that utilizes a predefined certification context specification and test case selection matrix to determine applicable test cases based on usage patterns, allowing for targeted testing of virtual network functions by a virtual network tester.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If all test cases are executed to ensure comprehensive testing of virtual network functions, then testing reliability is improved, but testing time and resource consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the test case selection process into distinct phases: certification context analysis, usage pattern identification, and test case selection. This segmentation allows the system to methodically determine which test cases are relevant without executing all possible test cases, thereby reducing testing time while maintaining reliability through structured selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary analysis of the certification context and usage patterns before executing test cases. By pre-identifying the applicable usage patterns and selecting relevant test cases in advance, the system avoids the need to execute all test cases during actual testing, thus reducing testing time while ensuring that reliable test coverage is achieved for the specific context.
2Measurement precision
If detailed understanding of System Under Test and test scenarios is required for proper testing, then testing precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary certification context specification that acts as a mediator between the test cases and the virtual network function. This specification includes usage patterns that capture the essential characteristics of the system under test, allowing testers to achieve precise testing without needing detailed understanding of the underlying system complexity. The intermediary structure simplifies the testing process while maintaining precision.
3Reliability
If comprehensive test case selection is performed without usage pattern specification, then testing completeness is improved, but productivity decreases due to running unnecessary test cases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the test case selection dynamic by linking it to usage patterns that are specific to each certification context. Instead of using a static approach where all test cases are considered, the system dynamically selects test cases based on the identified usage patterns. This dynamic selection ensures testing completeness for relevant scenarios while improving productivity by excluding unnecessary test cases.
4Reliability
If traditional dedicated testers are used for physical network functions, then testing reliability is improved, but cost and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses virtual network functions as copies or representations of physical network functions for testing purposes. By virtualizing the testing environment and using software-based test cases instead of dedicated physical testers, the system maintains testing reliability while significantly reducing the cost and time associated with deploying and managing physical testing infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and associated system for testing a virtual network function by a virtual network tester, wherein a predefined certification context specification specifies services based on the virtual network function in form of different usage patterns, and wherein a predefined test case selection matrix specifies applicable test cases for each usage pattern. In response to selecting a usage pattern from the different sage patterns, the applicable test cases are determined from the test case selection matrix and control parameters of the test case selection matrix based on the selected usage pattern.