Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 26, 2026

Segmentation and Linear Measurement for Body Composition Analysis using Slice-O-Matic and Horos
Published on: March 21, 2021
Invited review article: measurement uncertainty of linear phase-stepping algorithms
1EMPA, Laboratory Electronics/Metrology/Reliability, Ueberlandstrasse 129, CH-8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland.
This study analyzes phase measurement uncertainty in phase retrieval techniques, offering a consistent method to evaluate various influence quantities. It provides analytical formulas for N-bucket and Arctan algorithms to assess measurement uncertainty.
Area of Science:
- Optics
- Imaging
- Electronics
- Signal Theory
- Interferometry
Background:
- Phase retrieval techniques are crucial in optics, imaging, and electronics.
- Traditional phase-stepping methods optimize for specific error sources, potentially compromising performance on others.
- A unified approach is needed to consistently analyze phase measurement uncertainty.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a consistent quantitative analysis of phase measurement uncertainty for generalized linear phase stepping algorithms.
- To review and generalize existing results on phase stepping techniques.
- To provide a framework for evaluating multiple influence quantities simultaneously.
Main Methods:
- Generalized linear phase stepping algorithm with nominally equal phase stepping angles.
- Consistent quantitative analysis of phase measurement uncertainty.
- Derivation of analytical formulae for N-bucket algorithms.
- Derivation of expressions for Arctan algorithms averaged over 2π.
Main Results:
- Developed a consistent framework treating all influence quantities equally and describing correlations.
- Derived analytical formulae for combined variance in N-bucket algorithms.
- Obtained expressions for measurement uncertainty in Arctan algorithms.
- Established an upper bound for measurement uncertainty proportional to an algorithm-specific factor.
Conclusions:
- The presented analysis offers a unified and consistent method for evaluating phase measurement uncertainty.
- The derived formulae and bounds aid in selecting and assessing phase stepping techniques.
- Tabular compilations facilitate quick assessment of uncertainties for various techniques.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Uncertainty in Measurement: Reading Instruments
Uncertainty in Measurement: Significant Figures
Uncertainty in Measurement: Accuracy and Precision
The Uncertainty Principle
Uncertainty: Overview
Review and Preview
Percentiles are a type of fractile that partition data into...

