The spatial representation of surface roughness by means of the structure function: a practical alternative to correlation – R.S. Sayles, and T. R. Thomas.

Abstract

The structure function, which is related simply to the autocorrelation function but is without some of its disadvantages, is proposed as a means of quantifying variations in surface texture. Both profile and surface structure functions can be computed; the latter conveniently shows the effect of anisotropy on roughness. Using the structure function, the plastic compliance of rough surfaces can be related to contact spot size. Finally it is shown that the size of recurrent features representing damage, e.g. lands, can be estimated from the structure function.