Wave-front reconstruction without twin-image blurring by two arbitrary step digital holograms.

We discuss a novel approach for numerical wave-front reconstruction which utilizes arbitrary phase step digital holography. Our experimental results demonstrate that only two digital holograms and a simple estimation procedure are required for twin-image suppression, and for numerical reconstruction. One advantage of this approach is its simplicity. Only one estimate equation needs be applied. In addition the optical system can be constructed from inexpensive, generally available elements. Another advantage is the effectiveness of the method. The tolerance of the estimated value is less than 1% different than the actual value. This means that the quality of the reconstructed image is superior. This novel approach should make the application of digital holography easier and more widely available.