Open fringes interferograms generation through the phase contrast technique

Phase contrast imaging is a proven technique for sensing optical wavefronts and obtaining qualitative and quantitative insights into phase disturbances. Traditionally, this method involves introducing a phase mask at the Fourier transform plane of the phase object to create a synthetic reference wave that interferes with the analyzed phase disturbance. In this study, we incorporate an intensity-dependent photorefractive material, facilitating the self-induction of a Zernike-type phase filter. We introduce an innovative modification by inducing an angular offset between the synthetic reference wave and the phase distribution of the object. Effective implementation necessitates an illumination area larger than the phase object's support. This method stands out due to its resilience to environmental factors, shared by all common-path interferometers. Furthermore, it leverages open fringe interferograms, consolidating all essential phase information into a single image. This innovation streamlines phase retrieval, eliminating the need for multiple images, and extends applicability beyond small-phase object perturbations. We present results demonstrating the recovered phase distribution using the well-established Takeda technique for open fringe interferograms. This novel approach promises to enhance phase distortion analysis, offering versatility and simplicity in a variety of applications.