Test reports are vital in the vehicle development process as they contain data on how the vehicle will perform in the real world. Key stakeholders from multiple domains need test summary reports to make informed decisions regarding vehicle performance and modifications. They use the outcome of the tests to plan the next iteration of the prototype build. Informed decision and timely course correction keep the development project on track and avoids costly delays. Accuracy and Traceability of data are the key to generating test summary reports.

Creating test summary reports seems like a relatively straightforward, simple process. However, it is much more complicated than just writing a few key data points down. Some of the information that needs to be documented in a test summary report are:

• Test cell details

• Test Setup

• Prototype specifications

• Before and after test pictures

• Inspection pictures and remarks

• Test data analysis

• Test Result

Scattered Information

Test data are not all synchronized in one convenient location. Even worse, test reports are often scattered and difficult to easily locate. Some groups may be using Excel while other groups are using an in-house developed application to store the test meta data and raw data files. Additionally, some testing groups still use pen and paper to, this can result in several data entry issues, such as human error or lost test data. Engineers can end up wasting countless hours chasing groups and other engineers around looking for the data that they need.

Most recently, COVID-19 has shown just how vital an information repository is, especially when forced to work remotely without having access to multiple hardware devices. The information needs to be accurate and accessible to all parties involved. Auto manufacturers and their testing groups need to take note of this and apply 21st century technologies to generating their test summary reports. Sadly, the automotive industry has not been able to streamline this problem.

Inefficient data storing process

Tests are meticulously planned and executed. However, the documentation process is not as streamlined as one would imagine. During the testing process, a lot of information needs to be recorded, documented and accounted for. Tests can have multiple iterations and getting all of this information categorically and storing into the proper format without making any mistakes is a tough task. Test pictures captured during the test setup, execution and tear down are stored on the devices or local systems. Attempting to sort, track and upload these pictures to relevant locations could be a full-time job for an employee.

Time Consuming

Speed is more important than ever. Automotive manufacturers are under immense pressure to work through prototype builds more quickly, so that they can bring new vehicles to market sooner. The time it takes to create the test summary report can vary anywhere from one week up to an entire month or two. The engineers are busy planning new tests and evaluating the results, the test report generation takes a backseat. If the stakeholders are waiting for test reports this can potentially cause a bottleneck in the key decision-making processes.

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Stakes are high, is there a solution to this problem?

12th Wonder Has a Solution

12th Wonder identified all of these issues in the automotive industry and developed “Test Summary Report Generation” on TITAN platform to address these concerns. TITAN is the leading Test Lifecycle Management solution in the automotive industry. This comprehensive solution enables all parties involved in the prototyping testing process to collaborate and create generate test summary reports with speed, ease and traceability. Click here to schedule a demo and see how test summary reports can be generated with a click.