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Polymer and Blue Phase Liquid Crystal Composites for Field-Induced Color(FIC)

KSU.350

Abstract: Light efficiency in current transmissive type flat panel displays is decreased by absorption of the polarizer; and particle-based reflective displays including electrophoretic displays, quick-response-particle displays and electro wetting displays have their brightness dimmed due to the light absorption of color filters. We have demonstrated a new electro-optical device for field-induced color (FIC) based on a polymer-stabilized blue phase (PSBP) liquid crystal display.  Applying an electric field across the cell results in a red shift in Bragg reflected wavelength.  The color tuning is reversible and with a wide color range capable of covering the visible spectrum.  Due to the advantages and ability of controlling the electrically-switched colors, one can fabricate devices for application without alignment layers, color filter, and polarizers.  The polymer-stabilized blue phase mode technology is also an eco-friendly technology and can help display companies both reduce their environmental impact and deliver cost savings.  

 Applications: Formulation of materials, process, and fabrication of polymer-stabilized blue phase liquid crystal devices 

    Described for generation of color images – to provide:

  •          Improved electrically-tunable color displays –

o   Improved transmissive display technology – greater light efficiency

o   Improved reflective display technology – brighter color

  •          Improved  optical filters
  •          Improved  new generation electro-optical devices and active optical elements

 Advantages:

  •          Energy saving – greater light efficiency
  •          Fast switching, reversible color tuning, and brighter color
  •          Better temperature stability at operation range
  •          Better control and manipulation of optical properties – without alignment layers, color filters, polarizers.

Inventors:  Dr. L. C. Chien and Shin-Ying Lu

Licensing Contact

Suguna Rachakonda

Associate Director, Technology Commercialization

Office: 330-672-3553  Fax: 330-672-7991

Email: srachako@kent.edu