Automated testing with Wireless Communication in the digitalised industry : A case study of Mirka Oy

Abstract

Advanced automation technologies are changing the dynamics of the process and manufacturing industries. Product development processes are becoming smarter with the application of intelligent solutions and automated testing. The industry 4.0 concept of centralized control for industrial devices results in a rapid increase in the demand for the industrial Internet of Things (IoT) and cordless machines. Wireless communication protocols are integral to the functioning of such devices.

This thesis work is performed with Mirka Oy during the development process of a smart industrial cordless tool. Various available short-range wireless communication protocols are studied to find out the best possible solution to match the product requirements. Besides, an automated testing platform is developed to verify and validate the functional description of the devices. All the stages, starting from the types of embedded system testing, device test requirements, test case designing leading to a comprehensive testing platform are explained. Results generated by the automated platform are analysed, which shows that all the test execution is successful.

The successful implantation of this automated testing platform would significantly increase the efficiency of the development and testing process. Moreover, this dissertation highlights further development in terms of the application of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine learning (ML) technique for smarter testing processes and increase the overall performance of the testing framework.