limitscan

Limitscan is a systematic testing technique used to determine the operational or safety limits of a system by incrementally varying a control parameter and observing the resulting behavior. It is applied across disciplines such as engineering, electronics, software reliability, and materials science to establish the boundary conditions within which a device or process can operate safely and effectively.

The method typically involves defining a clear objective, selecting a parameter to vary, and setting a plausible range for that parameter. Tests are conducted in controlled steps, with continuous monitoring of responses and outcomes. A predefined criterion—such as the onset of error, unacceptable degradation, or a physical limit being reached—marks the limit. Results are recorded, and the boundary can be refined around the detected threshold using denser sampling or a binary search approach to sharpen the limit estimate.

Limitscan can identify various types of limits, including maximum load, input amplitude, temperature, voltage, or duration a system can withstand. It supports the establishment of design margins and safety factors and informs qualification testing and compliance assessments. Variants include gradient limits, time-based limits, and multi-parameter limits, which may require factorial designs.

Limitations include the potential for damage if conducted without proper safeguards, and the possibility of missing limits that only appear under specific conditions not encompassed by the tested path. Careful planning, monitoring, and safety protocols are essential for reliable and repeatable results.