Surface-Polymer-Assisted Vertically Aligned Liquid Crystal Cells

KSU.371

Abstract:   

Recent advances in technical issues involving poor viewing angle and color definition have been addressed to an acceptable level in most cases for most liquid crystal displays (LCDs) in mobile devices, monitors, and television sets.  However, the response time of LCDs using a nematic liquid crystal is still not fast enough for displaying motion picture quality images.  Several ideas based on modification of device configuration have been developed with the aim of improving the response time, including incorporation of vertical alignment modes and methods.  This KSU.371 technology involves a surface polymer-assisted vertically aligned (SPA-VA) liquid crystal cell. A method of forming surface localized polymer nanospikes capable of controlling the pretilt angle of liquid crystal molecules has been developed here.  This ensures fast switching characteristics.  The SPA-VA LC cell realizes a stable alignment and has the considerable advantage of easy patterning of the alignment direction.  Switch-off time is improved due to enhanced surface anchoring strength.

Applications: 

• Useful for vertically-aligned nematic displays (VA LCD panels)

• Wide use potential in computer and TV screens, etc.

Advantages:

• Easy patterning of the alignment direction
• Enables shortening of the fall time of the device by about 45%
• Can be used directly in manufacturing

Inventors:  Dr. Liang-Chy (L.C.) Chien, Volodymyr Borschch, and Dr. Jeoung Yeon Hwang

of Kent State University.