Liquid Crystal Devices and Methods Providing Fast Switching Mode

KSU.326

Abstract:  This invention includes a novel method of fabricating fast switching liquid crystal cells and manufacturing methods (devices and compositions) which exploit the discovery.  Electro-optical film is formed based on liquid crystal and polymer dispersion, where nanotube doped liquid crystal encapsulation is produced by a process in which a reactive additive formulation is mixed and photo-polymerized.  The phase- separated composite film enhances the control of droplet size, structural integrity, and electro-optical properties; and it prohibits flow of the liquid crystal as it is encapsulated. This provides a simple process and a more controllable system for encapsulating liquid crystal materials.  It offers the possibility of lower cost roll-to-roll manufacturing in addition to lighter weight, more rugged, and conformable displays.

Applications:

•          Displays (lighter weight, more rugged, and conformable)
•          Light modulators, adaptive optics components
•          Smart windows
•          E-Signs, Smart tags
•          Liquid crystal telecommunications

 Advantages:

•          Fast switching
•          Low voltage operation
•          Wide viewing angle
•          Polarizer-free
•          Suitable for flexible substrates, easy to fabricate, and low cost

 Inventors:  Dr. Liang-Chy (L. C.) Chien, Shin-Ying Lu, Lu Lu