In optical manufacturing, the smallest surface imperfections can compromise entire systems. Microscopic scratches and digs on optical surfaces not only affect performance but can also lead to costly rework or product rejection. Manual-visual inspection methods according to MIL and ISO standards are labor-intensive, subjective, and prone to inconsistency. That’s why automated scratch/dig inspection is transforming the industry – by enabling objective, repeatable, and high-throughput surface quality control.
DIOPTIC’s approach: high-precision automated inspection with ARGOS matrix
With our ARGOS matrix product family, DIOPTIC offers state-of-the-art systems for fully automated surface inspection. The ARGOS system reliably detects defects as small as 1 µm, evaluates them according to ISO 10110-7, and provides robust, traceable documentation. The ARGOS pro software handles defect quantification automatically – ensuring standard compliance and eliminating human variability.
Key benefits of automated scratch/dig inspection:
- Objective Evaluation: Reliable inspection results with no subjective influence from human inspectors
- Process Integration: Seamless implementation into existing production lines
- Full Documentation: Every defect is recorded and archived for traceability
- Scalable Throughput: Ideal for both prototyping and high-volume production
- Standard Compliance: Supports ISO 10110-7 and any size-based standards
Application areas – from lab to high-volume manufacturing
Whether you’re inspecting optical components with curved surfaces, flat optical surfaces, polished surfaces or the smallest micro-optics, our systems deliver accurate, repeatable measurement results. The ARGOS family systems solve nearly all inspection tasks on optical elements from lenses, prisms, and mirrors to planar optics and other optical components.
Automated scratch/dig inspection is a must-have for industries such as precision optics, laser optics, AR/VR optics, and optical coatings manufacturers, where the highest surface quality is non-negotiable. Early detection of surface defects and surface imperfections helps manufacturers minimize risk and optimize yield. This not only makes manufacturing processes more efficient but also saves costs.
The ARGOS matrix system – modular, scalable, future-proof
The modular design of our ARGOS matrix series allows for customized inspection solutions according to your customer-specific requirements. Whether you’re testing a prototype or conducting inline inspection in mass production, our ARGOS matrix system adapts to your needs. Even large inspection areas up to 400 × 600 mm are supported – the ideal solution for large optics or high-volume production.
Conclusion: raising the bar with automated scratch/dig inspection
Automated scratch/dig Inspection represents the future of optical surface quality control – with DIOPTIC at the forefront. Our high-performance ARGOS systems deliver precise, consistent, and fully documented inspection of optical components, setting new standards for efficient manufacturing processes.
Learn more about ARGOS and explore how our solutions can enhance your optical inspection processes.
