Least-squares calibration method based on a universal phase and height mapping formula in Fourier transform profilometry

In Fourier transform profilometry (FTP), we perform a strict theoretical analysis of the phase-height mapping relationship and give a universal calculation formula in which the constraints on the experimental setup are removed. In that case, the projector and camera can be located arbitrarily to get better information on fringes, which makes the system easy to manipulate and improves the speed of measurement. As the relationship between the phase and height distribution depends on system parameters (such as the relative position of the projector and camera) which are difficult to obtain, we propose a least-squares calibration approach for FTP, which can avoid measuring the system parameters directly. Both the simulation and experimental results prove that the 3D shape of the tested objects can be reconstructed exactly by using the calculation formula and calibration method, and that the system has better universality.