USDV focuses on the dimensional measurement of shafts and cylindrical components, delivering high-precision, automated, and fast image measurement systems. Our solutions support real-time inspection directly on the production line, enabling manufacturers to automate quality control, improve product yield, and enhance production efficiency. | Universal Standard Vision Technology Corporation

TIMI Precision Ball Screw Optical Measurement

Precision Ball Screw Optical Measuring System

olving Measurement Challenges for Miniature and Precision Ball Screws Automated In-Line Dimensional Inspection with TIMI Optical Measurement

Driven by the rapid growth of industrial automation, robotics, smart manufacturing, and electric vehicles, high-precision ball and roller screws have become critical transmission components. Their dimensional accuracy directly affects positioning accuracy, motion performance, and product reliability.
However, as tolerances become tighter, traditional inspection methods are struggling to meet production-line requirements.

Recommended Product : Precision Ball Screw Optical Measuring Machine

Common Quality Control Challenges

Slow and complex inspection: Traditional inspection often requires multiple instruments, such as CMMs, profilometers, length measuring systems, or laser interferometers. A complete inspection may take more than 10 minutes.
Difficult groove measurement: Verifying screw geometry requires measurement of 2~3 multiple grooves. Manual inspection is time-consuming and cannot provide real-time production feedback.
Limited to sampling inspection: Long inspection cycles make 100% inspection of critical dimensions impractical.

Traditional Inspection vs. TIMI

Comparison	Traditional Gauges (CMM, Profile, Length Gauge)	TIMI Automated Optical Inspection
Inspection Efficiency	Multiple instruments; often >10 minutes	Full dimensional inspection in about 10 seconds*
Inspection Scope	Mainly laboratory sampling	Supports production-line and full-length inspection
Key Parameters	Separate instruments and processes	PCD, contact angle, pitch, lead, cumulative error, etc.
Data Management	Scattered records	Automatic data storage, traceability, and accuracy grading

*Actual cycle time depends on the workpiece and measurement items.

Key TIMI Capabilities

Wide Measurement Range:Dedicated models support miniature and precision ball/roller screws from Ø3 mm to Ø40 mm, including SM12FH and SM40FH.
Automatic Screw Measurement:After setting the required parameters, TIMI automatically measures critical dimensions such as PCD, contact angle, pitch, lead, and cumulative error.
PCD and pitch measurement repeatability can reach within 1 μm, supporting demanding precision applications.
Ball & Roller Screw Compatibility:One system can support both ball screw and roller screw inspection, reducing dependence on multiple measuring instruments.

Four Key Benefits for Production Lines

Faster Inspection: Dramatically reduces inspection time compared with conventional laboratory methods.
100% In-Line Inspection: Enables manufacturers to move from sampling toward automated full inspection.
Digital Traceability: Automatically records measurement results for quality tracking, process improvement, and customer audits.
Lower QC Complexity: Consolidates multiple measurement tasks into one automated optical inspection platform.

Upgrade from Sampling to Automated Full Inspection

TIMI transforms screw inspection from a slow, multi-instrument laboratory process into a fast, non-contact, automated, and traceable quality control solution.
For manufacturers of miniature and precision ball screws, TIMI enables critical dimensions—including PCD, contact angle, pitch, lead, and cumulative error—to be monitored closer to the production process, helping reduce inspection costs and quality risks.
Contact USDV to schedule an online demonstration or discuss a customized ball screw inspection solution.