Investigation of smooth wave fronts using SLM-based phase retrieval and a phase diffuser

TL;DR

This paper presents a rapid phase retrieval method using an SLM and phase diffuser to accurately reconstruct smooth wave fronts, improving optical testing of lenses through enhanced measurement diversity and active alignment correction.

Contribution

The study introduces a novel combination of SLM and phase diffuser for fast, accurate phase retrieval of smooth wave fronts, with experimental validation in optical testing.

Findings

Enhanced diversity in intensity measurements improves phase reconstruction.

SLM enables precise speckle intensity recording and setup correction.

Technique effectively tests optical lenses with high accuracy.

Abstract

A phase retrieval technique using a spatial light modulator (SLM) and a phase diffuser for a fast reconstruction of smooth wave fronts is demonstrated experimentally. Diffuse illumination of a smooth test object with the aid of a phase diffuser (maximum phase shift, Df = 0.85p) results in a significant diversity in the intensity measurements which, in turn, is beneficial for a non-stagnating iterative phase reconstruction. The use of the SLM enables accurate and fast speckle intensity recording and active correction of misalignments in the setup. The effectiveness of the technique is demonstrated in the optical testing of lenses.