Smart Photochromic Chiral Nematic Liquid Crystal Window

 KSU.370 

Abstract:Photochromic windows respond to changes in exposure to light, much like sunglasses that darken when you move from a dim light to a bright one.  They work well to reduce glare from the sun, however they cannot control heat gain.  For example, a photochromic window would darken more in the winter than in the summer, although solar heat would be beneficial in the winter.  New smart window technology holds the promise of reducing energy consumption and cutting air conditioning and heating loads in the future, which offer the next major step in multi-functional energy-saving windows.  This invention is related to a multi-functional photo-responsive liquid crystal window, comprising at least a reversible photochromic chiral liquid crystal layer.  The invented windows are able to not only darken (with colors) in sunlight irradiation but also control the light and heat passing through them, which can be used in the windows of buildings, vehicles, and the like.

Applications:

• Windows of homes and commercial buildings
• Windows for vehicles of all types
• Windows for special purpose buildings such as greenhouses
• Tunable filters and the like

Advantages:

• Multi-functional - for privacy, comfort, and beauty
• Energy-saving - solar thermal control

Inventors:  Dr. Quan Li, Dr. Yannian Li, Dr. Ji Ma – of Kent State University's Liquid Crystal Institute