executing fully automatic pipelined tests using teststand

[Martin Balog]

Hi,

I am new to Teststand and I am looking for some specific answers. I need to develop an automatic testing machine that uses a carusel (or indexing table) to move tested units between several testing positions. finally, based on the pass/fail result of all test positions the unit is automatically sorted into PASSED or FAILED boxes.

the process model is strictly pipelined. when one unit finishes the fist test position(on the first position of the carusel), it moves to the second step. during the test of the first unit on the second position, a second unit is tested on the first position, etc. i can have several testing positions, let's say 6 at the moment, but this can change based on the unit being tested. i can possibly have several testing steps on each testing position (i can call it a subsequence)

Can someone give me some clues or ideas to find the best way to implement this? is Teststand the right choice for fully automated testing, or is it better suited for semiautomatic (manual handling) testing sequences?

Thanks for your answers and ideas.

Best regards,

Martin.

[Greil]

Hello Martin

here are some ideas from another Martin:

Use the Batchmodel with same number of TestSockets as your carusel.

In your MainSequence is a big SELECT CASE structure (one per TestSocket).

Use "RunState.TestSockets.MyIndex" as criteria to SELECT the correct CASE.

Each case uses a separate call to a subsequence for a clearly arranged MainSequence.

Store the Results of the CASEes in a ringbuffer (=Array) at the end of the MainSequence. (or in Callback "PostUUT")

In Callback "PostBatch" enter a new formula to calculate your final PASS/FAIL BATCH-Result.

Use "Skipped" as Batch Result for empty carusel slots (e.g. during 1st run)

greetings

Martin

[Ray.R]

Hi Martin (#1)

As Martin (#2) indicated, you can use the Batch model to run multiple UUTs.

However, since the tests are run in parallel and may consist of different tests (sub-sequences, etc), you may want to consider the Parallel model as well.  This way individual tests running with different tdurations can run in parallel.  You may have to use synchronization to make sure they "rotate" at the same time.  There are many ways to implement the full solution, so do explore the way you feel more confident with (using the appropriate multi UUT models, of course... meaning that you should not use the Sequential model).

TestStand is the perfect choice for implementing a fully automated solution.  It may take a bit of time to learn at first, but you'll enjoy it soon enough.  It is way more powerful than meets the eye...  (I underestimated it 😉 )... 

JLV