Summary
Key results
Automation of testing and integration with the CI/CD process
Full compliance of the testing process with medical device standards
New medtech requirements and dependable prosthetic software
Blatchford was developing a new embedded software platform (C++ / ARM Cortex) for the next generation of intelligent prosthetics and orthoses. In this type of solution, testing is not an “add-on to quality” – it is the foundation of product safety and predictability, as well as a prerequisite for conducting development in compliance with medical industry requirements. The project required stable and repeatable automated testing, the ability to simulate hardware, and full integration with the development and tracking process in Azure DevOps.
The client needed capabilities combining embedded engineering, test automation, CI/CD, and C++/Python development, along with support in BLE, OTA, and module testing. An additional requirement was alignment of the testing process with medical industry quality expectations, including the context of ISO 13485 and IEC 62304 standards (without audit activities on Sii’s side).
An integrated embedded + test-automation team accelerating software delivery
Sii Poland assembled an integrated team of embedded and test-automation specialists working as part of Blatchford’s UK R&D organization. Collaboration relied on continuous communication, regular workshops, and strict alignment to the client’s processes and quality standards.
Scope included:
- Building an Embedded Automated Test Framework in C++ and Python
- Implementing VectorCAST and integrating it with Robot Framework
- Automating unit and integration tests in line with medical-device requirements
- Supporting development of OTA functionality for remote software updates
- Implementing BLE communication and security features to prevent unauthorized memory reads
- Developing a test rig for verification of motor and device parameters
- Supporting implementation of a CI/CD pipeline for continuous integration and testing
- Preparing documentation and processes to ensure requirements traceability and full quality compliance
This gave Blatchford a complete test architecture and strengthened device security and stability throughout the product lifecycle.
Compliance with medical standards and faster time-to-market
With the solution developed by Sii Poland, Blatchford gained a repeatable and scalable embedded software testing process aligned with medical industry requirements. The implementation of full module test coverage using VectorCAST, along with functional testing, resulted in higher software quality, easier platform maintenance, and greater readiness for further development.
Automating testing within CI/CD pipelines shortened feedback loops, accelerated detection of regressions and defects, and improved collaboration between teams in Poland and the United Kingdom through a unified operating model.
The collaboration covered not only test automation but also development of key device features, including OTA and BLE, as well as support in maintaining and transferring the solution to the client’s team. Work on the OTA area improved the security and stability of updates, including eliminating the risk of unauthorized firmware access and fully automating the update process.
As a result, Blatchford achieved a more predictable validation process and more stable development of subsequent platform versions, while the collaboration contributed to greater reliability of prosthetic devices, improved patient experience, and a solid foundation for developing the next generation of devices.