Phase retrieval algorithm using multiple phase diffusers

Abstract

Conventional diffuse illumination phase retrieval method uses a diffuser glass plate and movement of the camera along axial direction to induce intensity variation. The diffuser plate, however, has fixed settings and camera movement is tedious. Here, a novel algorithm for the phase retrieval method using multiple random patterns displayed on a spatial light modulator and a fixed camera plane is demonstrated numerically. Algorithm performance was evaluated in terms of the number of random patterns needed and the number of iterations required to reconstruct test wave fronts. The technique allows controllable diffuser settings and rapid reconstruction of smooth wave fronts.