Abstract: | The use of a fringe-counting holographic interferometric technique for measuring small superficial displacements can present difficulties in determining the measurement inaccuracy. A useful general method is given here for the analysis of errors in displacement measurements. The optimum number and type of observation directions are determined and correspond to counting in the four semi-diagonals of the holographic plate. The technique, as applied to skull experiments, makes it possible to measure directly displacements of up to 20 μm, in the object plane parallel to the holographic plate. The associated errors range from 0.1–0.3 μm, for a counting inaccuracy of
of a fringe and increments of traction of 100 g to 1 kg of force. |