Two-dimensional measurement technique for birefringence vector distributions: data processing and experimental verification

A two-dimensional measurement method for a birefringence vector distributio n differs from a point-measurement method not only in the two-dimensional s ystem nonuniformity but also in the system reliability. The previously prop osed intrinsic vector allowed for the elimination of the influence of the s ystem nonuniformity, whereas the two-dimensional system reliability is ensu red by both an online diagnosis technique and an image lock-in processing. It is revealed that the measured intrinsic vector is relevant not only with the birefringence vector distribution in a sample but also with the natura l birefringence vector distributions that exist in the optic components. Th e complete solution from the measured intrinsic vector results in a bidirec tional vector for the desired birefringence vector distribution. The correc tness of the two-dimensional measurement principle is examined by means of a comparison of the measured data with that calculated from a finite-elemen t analysis based on the photoelastic effect. (C) 1999 Optical Society of Am erica.