Weighted least-squares phase unwrapping algorithm based on a non-interfering image of an object

Conventional quality maps for weighted least-squares phase unwrapping are not appropriate in regions of abnormal fringes. In this paper, the use of a non-interfering image of an object for a reliability map is proposed for robust phase unwrapping. First, the conventional weighted least-squares algorithm is applied, and the unreliable region is detected. Then, the unreliable region is unwrapped iteratively using the non-interfering image of the object. Finally, both phase maps are combined and smoothed by a continuity operation. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm is appropriate for unwrapping phase maps of abnormal fringes.