New trends in optical methods for experimental mechanics. Part I: moire and grating projection techniques for shape and deformation measurement

The influence of dynamic development in the field of personal computers and video techniques on optical methods used in the experimental mechanics is described. New methods of computer aided processing of the information encoded in the interferogram/moitegram patterns with special emphasis put on so-called phase methods are presented. The benefits of various modifications of the phase-stepping method are emphasized and illustrated by exemplary experimental results in the field of moire and grating projection topography used for the shape and deformation studies. The description of the equipment developed and sensitivity considerations are included.