Processing of interferometric phase maps as complex-valued phasor images

Area of Science:

• Optical Metrology
• Image Processing
• Interferometry

Background:

• Phase-shifting interferometry (PSI) generates phase and amplitude data.
• Processing interferometric phase maps can be complex.
• Existing methods may lack efficiency in filtering and unwrapping.

Purpose of the Study:

• Introduce phasor image processing for interferometric data.
• Demonstrate its utility in filtering, visualization, masking, and unwrapping.
• Validate the method with electronic speckle pattern interferometry (ESPI) data.

Main Methods:

• Combine phase and amplitude information into complex-valued phasors for each pixel.
• Apply phasor image processing techniques to interferometric phase maps.
• Utilize two ESPI datasets to illustrate the phasor processing approach.

Main Results:

• Phasor image processing provides a unified framework for multiple image manipulations.
• The method effectively filters noise and enhances visualization of phase data.
• Demonstrated successful application in masking and phase unwrapping.

Conclusions:

• Phasor image processing is a simple and effective technique for interferometric data analysis.
• This approach enhances the capabilities of PSI and ESPI.
• Offers a versatile tool for researchers working with interferometric measurements.