Mathematical approach to the validation of surface texture form removal software

A new approach to the validation of surface texture form removal methods is introduced. A linear algebra technique is presented that obtains total least squares (TLS) model fits for a continuous mathematical surface definition. This model is applicable to both profile and areal form removal, and can be used for a range of form removal models including polynomial and spherical fits. The continuous TLS method enables the creation of mathematically traceable reference pairs suitable for the assessment of form removal algorithms in surface texture analysis software. Multiple example reference pairs are presented and used to assess the performance of four tested surface texture analysis software packages. The results of each software are compared against the mathematical reference, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.