Complete camshaft inspection in 20s to meet mass production needs.
Full Inspection of Camshaft Dimensions
Lab-to-Line Camshaft Metrology : One-Step Camshaft Metrology
Camshafts are critical components influencing mechanical performance. In the past, traditional gauges were unable to meet both the high-speed production and precision inspection needs. In this case, the client evaluated USDV’s TIMI optical measurement system and decided to implement lab-grade inspection directly on the production floor.
Results showed that TIMI achieved repeatability better than 0.5 μm and reduced cycle time to under 20 seconds, saving more than 80% compared to traditional inspection methods. This enables true in-line full inspection, allowing manufacturers to monitor process trends in real time and significantly boost efficiency.
Recommended Product : Desktop Image Measuring Machine
Challenges
- Traditional gauges like calipers, micrometers, and air gauges cannot support full camshaft inspection on the shop floor. Contact-type gauges suffer from wear and human error, and air gauges can’t measure roundness, coaxiality, or runout; they require constant calibration and reconfiguration.
- Lab-based instruments such as roundness testers or CMMs are expensive and slow, which can not meet the needs of real-time feedback for high-volume production.
- Lab sampling cannot reflect the true process capabilities due to the lack of sufficient and reliable inspection data, making it difficult to provide early warnings and prevent a large number of manufactured scraps.
Solution
USDV has developed an automated measurement recipe based on its TIMI_F/A series equipment, tailored to the customer's production environment and processes.
The recipe includes the following inspection items:
- Ground diameters and segment differences
- Roundness / Cylindricity
- Coaxiality / Runout
- Cam lift / Eccentricity
Key Benefits
Lab Precision and Production Repeatability Ready
- Measurement uncertainty within ±1.5 μm
- Repeatability < 0.5 μm
- Test results consistent with the customer’s lab instruments
2. Fast Measurement for Full In-line Inspection
- o Cycle time under 20 seconds per camshaft measurement
- o Over 80% time saving compared to conventional gauging
3. High Automation Adaptiveness and Flexibility
- Quick changeover between camshaft models—no need to replace gauges
- Low operator skill required; ideal for mass inspection
- Enables grading and sorting for optimized assembly
Customer Feedback
"TIMI exceeded expectations in speed, accuracy, and measurable items for camshaft in-line inspection. It even replaces roundness testers and enables full inspection on the shop floor."
– Quality Director, Automotive OEM
| Key Value | Description |
|---|---|
| Bringing Lab-testing Tech to the Shop Floor | Replaces expensive lab gauging systems to enhance production line inspection capabilities. |
| High-Speed Measurement In-line | 20-second cycle time meets mass production needs |
| High Cost-Effectiveness Inspection Facility | Delivers high performance return with lower equipment cost |
| Non-Contact Optical Measurement avoids human errors | Avoid tool wear, operating behavior, and the need for repeated calibration adjustments. |
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