Computer-aided analysis of holographic interferograms using the phase-shift method

Abstract

The large amount of data that holographic interferometry provides requires computer-aided analysis. We present here a holographic system with subsequent image processing enabling one to analyze complete interferograms. This technique, based on a phase-shift method, achieves high accuracy and simultaneously suppresses background intensity, shadowing, etc. The technique is shown both theoretically and experimentally to be insensitive to changes in wavelength, thus allowing the use of pulsed lasers. Two diverse examples which differ significantly in recording and measuring parameters are presented.