Rotronic combines test automation and IoT testing for complex device setups
As a leading provider of high-precision measuring devices, Rotronic is breaking new ground in test automation and IoT testing. Together, we are focusing on automated test solutions to increase the quality and efficiency of software development for measuring devices.
About Rotronic
Rotronic is a globally recognized supplier of measuring instruments used in various industries such as manufacturing and laboratory applications. The company offers a wide range of high-precision instruments for measuring humidity, temperature and pressure that are renowned for their reliability and ease of use. Through continuous innovation, Rotronic ensures that the devices always meet the highest standards of measurement accuracy and quality.
IN SHORT
QA-Goals
- Automated tests for real IoT devices: ensuring functionality in real application scenarios
- Integration into existing software environments: Adaptation of the test solutions to Rotronic's existing system landscape
- Scalability and flexibility: the ability to test and control a large number of devices simultaneously
IN SHORT
Results
- Construction of a device wall with USB switch solution for simultaneous connection of 16 devices - both individually and in combination
- Continuous test processes and realistic test data
- Development of an automated test infrastructure
The project
Projekttyp
Automated IoT testing
Industry
Precision measurement technology IoT
Service type
Automated testing
Platforms used
Asure
QA-Services
Test automation, IoT testing, GUI testing, unit testing
Challenges in IoT testing and test automation
We are already supporting our partners at Rotronic in the area of manual testing. Testing was mainly carried out on simulation devices.
Requirements for a complex device setup
One advantage of automated test procedures on real devices is the generation of a significantly higher volume of data and information. In contrast to the simulator devices, the real-world applications behave differently. A test setup was required with the following specifications:
- Automated tests for real devices
- Integration into the customer's existing software environment
- Integration of a large number of devices and simultaneous operation of several measuring devices under real conditions
A decisive aspect was the exact simulation of real application scenarios in order to collect meaningful test data that corresponds to the actual operating conditions of the devices.
Our solution: Automation of tests and IoT testing with real devices
To meet the customer's test requirements, we rely on a combination of unit tests, GUI tests and IoT tests. This approach enables precise testing of both the software and the actual devices in real application scenarios.
- Unit tests and GUI tests: Instead of interacting directly with the devices, we tested at a deeper code level. This means that we interacted with the basic code blocks that later control the GUI and the physical devices. This allowed us to ensure that the software fulfilled the expected functions without more time-consuming manual intervention.
- IoT testing with real devices: Real measuring devices were used for IoT testing instead of simulation devices. Our test cases were executed directly on the devices to ensure that the software communicates correctly. The test setup provides precise, realistic data on how the software behaves in real application scenarios.
- Device setup & infrastructure: A key element of the solution was the creation of a device wall, which makes it possible to test several devices simultaneously and still control them individually. Previously, all devices had to be connected and disconnected manually, which led to confusion and inefficiency due to the large number of devices. We developed a USB switch solution that allows up to 16 devices to be controlled efficiently - both individually and in combination. This solution provides the advantage that no power supply for the devices needs to be interrupted, and the wall is mobile and easily transportable, which expands the application possibilities in the testing team.
Special challenges
- Complexity of the test environment: In the test environment, all devices are initially only connected to a single computer. This situation does not correspond to the real operating conditions of the devices, as several devices have to be operated simultaneously and addressed independently of each other. This had to be compensated for in the test setup. To do this, we set up a test environment that we creatively solved with the help of a USB hub in order to control all devices efficiently and without overlaps.
- Integration of hardware and software: A particular challenge was to connect the hardware (precision measuring devices) and the software and ensure that the tests were carried out correctly. We work with customers to develop a system that seamlessly integrates both software and hardware.
Results
- Efficient test automation:
Rotronic receives the automated codes for tests from us. The tests are carried out individually for each device, with the test duration varying depending on the device. Automation saves valuable time and significantly improves test efficiency.
1. Realistic test data:As we worked with real devices and real measured values, the development team receives precise data on how the software works in real application scenarios. This helps to further optimize the software and achieve higher reliability and performance.
2. Ongoing tests:
The test process is continuously monitored and further optimized. Our contacts receive the test results after each phase so that software changes can be taken into account immediately. The code is integrated directly into the customer's system so that they always have access to the latest tests.
With our device wall solution, Rotronic will be able to integrate additional devices into the tests in future and test different combinations. This ensures a high degree of flexibility and scalability when new devices are added or requirements increase.
Future steps
We continue to work on optimizing test automation and continuously integrate new test cases into Rotronic's existing system. The solution is being further developed so that the test setup can be easily transferred to the customer's production.
Further case studies
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AGILE TESTING
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ACCESSIBILITY TESTING
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Contact our team
Do you have questions about the project or your own QA challenge? Our team looks forward to hearing from you.