Method for designing error-compensating phase-calculation algorithms for phase-shifting interferometry

Abstract

We propose a general approach to eliminating some error source effects in phase-calculation algorithms for phase-shifting interferometry. We express the actual phase shift in a convenient form that takes the errors into account and develop in series the detected phase from a generic algorithm. Setting to zero the terms of the series that involve unwanted errors leads to a set of linear equations for the algorithm coefficients, which can thus be found. By using this approach, one could develop an algorithm series for an individual interferometer based on relevant concerns about the main error sources in it and eliminate the error source effects to any desired order. Two examples of algorithm series, to eliminate distorted phase shifts caused by the geometric effect in an interferometer with a spherical Fizeau cavity and to eliminate vibration effects, are discussed.