Method for manufacturing liquid crystal film and apparatus for manufacturing liquid crystal film

Abstract

This invention provides a method and apparatus for fabricating a liquid crystal film. The method includes: applying a photo-aligned layer to at least a portion of the surface of a substrate; controlling an exposure light source to irradiate multiple first regions of the photo-aligned layer after passing through multiple second regions of a light modulator, wherein the exposure light source can generate multiple beams of linearly polarized light with a first preset wavelength, the light modulator has a first liquid crystal layer, and the first liquid crystal molecules within the first liquid crystal layer in the same second region have the same alignment direction; applying a second liquid crystal layer to the surface of the photo-aligned layer, wherein the alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer is parallel or perpendicular to the alignment direction of the alignment layer molecules in the multiple first regions of the photo-aligned layer; controlling light of a second preset wavelength to irradiate the second liquid crystal layer, causing the second liquid crystal molecules to undergo a cross-linking and curing reaction to form a liquid crystal film. The fabrication method of this application can improve the production efficiency of liquid crystal films.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of anti-counterfeiting technology, specifically to a method for manufacturing a liquid crystal film and equipment for manufacturing a liquid crystal film. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, to achieve near-field or far-field image display using liquid crystal materials, optical alignment is typically used. Optically aligned materials undergo a directional photoreaction under linearly polarized light of a specific wavelength, and the liquid crystal molecules in contact with them are aligned through intermolecular interactions. In related technologies, when multi-domain alignment is required, a computer outputs graphic signals to control the reflection state of a single micromirror, acting as a digital mask to solve the registration problem for multiple exposure areas. However, after the exposure light is reflected by the lens array, it needs to pass through a linear polarizer to obtain the required polarization direction. To obtain different molecular orientations, multiple exposure steps are still required. Each time the exposure pattern is changed, the polarizer needs to be rotated to change the polarization direction of the light, limiting production efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to solve at least one of the technical problems existing in the prior art or related art.

[0004] Therefore, the first aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a liquid crystal thin film.

[0005] A second aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for manufacturing liquid crystal thin films.

[0006] In view of the above, a first aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a liquid crystal film, comprising: applying a photo-aligned layer to at least a portion of the surface of a substrate; controlling an exposure light source to irradiate a plurality of first regions of the photo-aligned layer after passing through a plurality of second regions of a light modulator, wherein the exposure light source is capable of generating linearly polarized light having a first preset wavelength, the light modulator has a first liquid crystal layer, the first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer within the same second region have the same alignment direction, and the first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layers within adjacent second regions have different alignment directions; applying a second liquid crystal layer to the surface of the photo-aligned layer, wherein the alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in a plurality of regions of the second liquid crystal layer is parallel or perpendicular to the alignment direction of the alignment layer molecules in the plurality of first regions of the photo-aligned layer; controlling light of a second preset wavelength to irradiate the second liquid crystal layer, causing the second liquid crystal molecules to undergo a cross-linking and curing reaction to form a liquid crystal film.

[0007] In this technical solution, the method for fabricating a liquid crystal film includes: applying a photo-aligned layer to at least a portion of the surface of a substrate, thereby connecting the substrate and the photo-aligned layer together. An exposure light source is controlled to irradiate multiple first regions of the photo-aligned layer after passing through multiple second regions of a light modulator, thereby exposing the photo-aligned layer. The exposure light source can generate multiple beams of linearly polarized light with a first preset wavelength. The light modulator has a first liquid crystal layer. The first liquid crystal molecules within the first liquid crystal layer in the same second region have the same alignment direction, while the first liquid crystal molecules in adjacent second regions have different alignment directions. This allows the exposure light source to generate multiple beams of linearly polarized light with different linear polarization directions through the multiple regions of the light modulator, enabling the light modulator to adjust the polarization direction of the linearly polarized exposure light passing through it. The linear polarization directions of the light passing through different regions of the light modulator are different. Multiple first regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer are exposed to multi-beam linearly polarized light, causing the alignment layer molecules within the photo-controlled alignment layer to undergo an orientation reaction upon irradiation with the linearly polarized light. Since the multi-beam linearly polarized light corresponds to multiple regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer, the long axis direction of the alignment layer molecules in these regions is parallel or perpendicular to the polarization direction of the corresponding linearly polarized light, thereby rearranging the orientation of the alignment layer molecules in these regions. A second liquid crystal layer is applied to the surface of the photo-controlled alignment layer to connect it to the photo-controlled alignment layer. The alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer is parallel or perpendicular to the alignment direction of the alignment layer molecules in the multiple first regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer, thereby changing the alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in these regions and giving them a specific alignment direction. The second liquid crystal layer is irradiated with light of a second preset wavelength, causing the second liquid crystal molecules to undergo a cross-linking and curing reaction to form a liquid crystal film. This cross-linking and curing reaction strengthens the interaction between the second liquid crystal molecules, facilitating the formation of a stable liquid crystal film. This application utilizes multiple second regions of the light modulator to generate multiple beams of linearly polarized light with different linear polarization directions to expose multiple alignment layers of the light-controlled alignment layer. This allows the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer to form a liquid crystal film with a specific alignment direction. By precisely controlling the polarization direction of the exposure light through the light modulator in a patterned manner, multi-domain alignment of the second liquid crystal molecules can be achieved in a single exposure, thereby improving the production efficiency of the liquid crystal film.

[0008] In addition, the method for manufacturing liquid crystal thin films in the above-mentioned technical solution provided by the present invention may also have the following additional technical features: In one technical solution of the present invention, optionally, the number of first liquid crystal layers is at least one, and the thickness of the first liquid crystal layer satisfies the half-wave plate condition relative to the first preset wavelength.

[0009] In this technical solution, the first liquid crystal layer is at least one layer, so that the light modulator can adjust the light generated by the exposure light source. The thickness of the first liquid crystal layer satisfies the half-wave plate condition relative to the first preset wavelength, so that the exposure light can be converted into linearly polarized light with different polarization directions after passing through the light modulator.

[0010] In one embodiment of the present invention, optionally, after applying a photo-alignment layer to at least a portion of the surface of the substrate, the method for fabricating the liquid crystal film further includes: controlling a drying device to dry the photo-alignment layer to remove the solvent within the photo-alignment layer.

[0011] In this technical solution, after applying a photo-alignment layer to at least a portion of the surface of the substrate, a drying device is controlled to dry the photo-alignment layer. The drying process removes the solvent from the photo-alignment layer, making it drier and more uniform. This helps to improve the directional reaction of the molecules in the photo-alignment layer under the irradiation of linearly polarized exposure light of a first preset wavelength.

[0012] In one technical solution of the present invention, optionally, a second liquid crystal layer is applied to the surface of the photo-alignment layer, wherein the arrangement direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer is parallel or perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the alignment layer molecules in multiple first regions of the photo-alignment layer, and the method for fabricating the liquid crystal film further includes: adjusting the temperature of the second liquid crystal layer to a first preset temperature, so that the second liquid crystal layer is in the liquid crystal phase, and drying the second liquid crystal layer to remove the solvent.

[0013] In this technical solution, the temperature of the second liquid crystal layer is adjusted to a first preset temperature so that the second liquid crystal layer is in the liquid crystal phase, and the second liquid crystal layer is dried to remove the solvent. Heating can promote the orientation of the second liquid crystal molecules in the second liquid crystal layer, and drying and solvent removal can facilitate the cross-linking reaction of the second liquid crystal molecules under the irradiation of light of the second preset wavelength.

[0014] In one technical solution of the present invention, optionally, the first preset temperature is greater than or equal to 50°C and less than or equal to 120°C.

[0015] In this technical solution, the first preset temperature is greater than or equal to 50°C and less than or equal to 120°C, so as to adjust the temperature of the second liquid crystal layer. By setting the first preset temperature to 50°C to 120°C, the molecules in the second liquid crystal layer can promote the directional alignment of the second liquid crystal molecules within the second liquid crystal layer.

[0016] In one technical solution of the present invention, optionally, the first preset wavelength is greater than or equal to 190nm and less than or equal to 510nm.

[0017] In this technical solution, the first preset wavelength is greater than or equal to 190nm and less than or equal to 510nm, so as to adjust the first preset wavelength. By setting the wavelength of the linearly polarized light to 190nm to 510nm, the molecules in the orientation layer undergo a directional reaction.

[0018] In one technical solution of the present invention, optionally, the second preset wavelength is greater than or equal to 190nm and less than or equal to 510nm.

[0019] In this technical solution, the second preset wavelength is greater than or equal to 190nm and less than or equal to 510nm, so as to adjust the second preset wavelength. By setting the second preset wavelength to 190nm to 510nm, the second liquid crystal molecules in the second liquid crystal layer can undergo a cross-linking reaction.

[0020] In one embodiment of the present invention, optionally, applying a light-controlled alignment layer to at least a portion of the surface of a substrate includes: coating a light-controlled alignment layer on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate; or printing a light-controlled alignment layer on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate; or spraying a light-controlled alignment layer onto at least a portion of the surface of the substrate.

[0021] In this technical solution, a light-control alignment layer is coated on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate to achieve the arrangement of the light-control alignment layer. Alternatively, a light-control alignment layer is printed on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate to achieve the arrangement of the light-control alignment layer. Or, a light-control alignment layer is sprayed onto at least a portion of the surface of the substrate to achieve the arrangement of the light-control alignment layer.

[0022] In one technical solution of the present invention, optionally, a second liquid crystal layer is applied to the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer, including: coating the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer with the second liquid crystal layer; or printing the second liquid crystal layer on the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer; or spraying the second liquid crystal layer onto the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer.

[0023] In this technical solution, a second liquid crystal layer is coated on the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer to achieve the arrangement of the second liquid crystal layer. Alternatively, a second liquid crystal layer is printed on the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer to achieve the arrangement of the second liquid crystal layer. Finally, a second liquid crystal layer is sprayed onto the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer to achieve the arrangement of the second liquid crystal layer.

[0024] A second aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for fabricating a liquid crystal film, comprising: a first application device, an exposure device, a second application device, and a curing device. The first application device is used to apply a photo-aligned layer to at least a portion of the surface of a substrate; the exposure device includes an exposure light source and a light modulator, the exposure light source irradiating multiple first regions of the photo-aligned layer after passing through multiple second regions of the light modulator, wherein the exposure light source is capable of generating multiple beams of linearly polarized light having a first preset wavelength, the light modulator having a first liquid crystal layer, the first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer within the same second region having the same alignment direction, and the first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layers within adjacent second regions having different alignment directions; the second application device is used to apply a second liquid crystal layer to the surface of the photo-aligned layer, wherein the alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer is parallel or perpendicular to the alignment direction of the alignment layer molecules in the multiple first regions of the photo-aligned layer; the curing device is used to control light of a second preset wavelength to irradiate the second liquid crystal layer, causing the second liquid crystal molecules to undergo a cross-linking curing reaction to form a liquid crystal film.

[0025] In this technical solution, the equipment for fabricating a liquid crystal film includes: a first application device, an exposure device, a second application device, and a curing device. The first application device is used to apply a photo-aligned layer to at least a portion of the surface of a substrate, thereby connecting the substrate and the photo-aligned layer together. The exposure device includes an exposure light source and a light modulator. The exposure light source illuminates multiple first regions of the photo-aligned layer after passing through multiple second regions of the light modulator. The exposure light source can generate multiple beams of linearly polarized light with a first preset wavelength. The light modulator has a first liquid crystal layer. The first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer within the same second region have the same alignment direction, while the first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layers within adjacent second regions have different alignment directions. Multiple beams of linearly polarized light with different linear polarization directions can be generated through the multiple regions of the light modulator. The light modulator is used to control the exposure of multiple regions of the photo-aligned layer by the multiple beams of linearly polarized light. The multiple regions of the light modulator can generate multiple beams of linearly polarized light with different linear polarization directions, allowing the light modulator to adjust the polarization direction of the exposed light passing through it. The linear polarization direction of the light passing through different regions of the light modulator is different. Multiple first regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer are exposed to multi-beam linearly polarized light, causing the alignment layer molecules within the photo-controlled alignment layer to undergo an orientation reaction upon irradiation by the linearly polarized light. Since the multi-beam linearly polarized light corresponds to multiple regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer, the long axis direction of the alignment layer molecules in these regions is parallel or perpendicular to the polarization direction of the corresponding linearly polarized light, thereby rearranging the orientation of the alignment layer molecules in these regions. A second application device is used to apply a second liquid crystal layer to the surface of the photo-controlled alignment layer to connect the second liquid crystal layer to the photo-controlled alignment layer. The alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer is parallel or perpendicular to the alignment direction of the alignment layer molecules in the multiple first regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer, thereby changing the alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in these multiple regions, giving them a specific alignment direction. The curing apparatus includes a curing light source for emitting light of a second preset wavelength to irradiate the second liquid crystal layer, causing the second liquid crystal molecules to undergo a cross-linking curing reaction to form a liquid crystal film. Controlling the irradiation of the second liquid crystal layer with the second preset wavelength light causes the second liquid crystal molecules to undergo a cross-linking curing reaction to form a liquid crystal film. This cross-linking curing reaction strengthens the interaction between the second liquid crystal molecules, facilitating the formation of a stable liquid crystal film. This application utilizes multiple second regions of a light modulator to generate multiple beams of linearly polarized light with different linear polarization directions to expose multiple alignment layers of the photo-controlled alignment layer. This allows the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer to form a liquid crystal film with specific alignment orientations. By precisely controlling the polarization direction of the exposure light through patterning using the light modulator, multi-domain alignment of the second liquid crystal molecules can be achieved in a single exposure, thereby improving the production efficiency of the liquid crystal film.

[0026] In one embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus for fabricating a liquid crystal film may optionally include a drying device for drying the photo-alignment layer to remove the solvent within the photo-alignment layer.

[0027] In this technical solution, the equipment for manufacturing liquid crystal films also includes a drying device, which is used to dry the photo-alignment layer to remove the solvent in the photo-alignment layer so that the molecules in the photo-alignment layer can undergo an oriented reaction under the irradiation of linearly polarized exposure light of a first preset wavelength.

[0028] In one technical solution of the present invention, optionally, the equipment for making liquid crystal thin film further includes an alignment buffer device, which is used to adjust the temperature of the second liquid crystal layer to a first preset temperature, so that the second liquid crystal layer is in the liquid crystal phase, and to dry the second liquid crystal layer to remove solvent.

[0029] In this technical solution, the temperature of the second liquid crystal layer is adjusted to a first preset temperature by an alignment buffer device, so that the second liquid crystal layer is in the liquid crystal phase, and the second liquid crystal layer is dried to remove the solvent. Heating can promote the orientation of the second liquid crystal molecules in the second liquid crystal layer, and drying and solvent removal can facilitate the cross-linking reaction of the second liquid crystal molecules under the irradiation of light of the second preset wavelength.

[0030] In one technical solution of the present invention, optionally, the range of the first preset wavelength is 190nm to 510nm, and the range of the second preset wavelength is 190nm to 510nm.

[0031] In one embodiment of the present invention, optionally, the exposure light source can emit quasi-linearly polarized light of a first preset wavelength; the light modulator is located between the exposure light source and the substrate and is used to modulate the polarization direction of the quasi-linearly polarized light so that the light passing through the light modulator has different linear polarization directions.

[0032] In this technical solution, the exposure light source can emit quasi-linearly polarized light of a first preset wavelength to improve the accuracy of the exposure light source illuminating the light modulator. The light modulator is located between the exposure light source and the substrate and is used to modulate the polarization direction of the quasi-linearly polarized light, so that the light emitted by the exposure light source can form multiple beams of linearly polarized light with different linear polarization directions after passing through the light modulator.

[0033] In this technical solution, the curing device includes a curing light source capable of emitting light of a second preset wavelength. The second preset wavelength is greater than or equal to 190 nm and less than or equal to 510 nm, so as to adjust the second preset wavelength. By setting the second preset wavelength to 190 nm to 510 nm, the second liquid crystal molecules in the second liquid crystal layer undergo a cross-linking reaction.

[0034] In one embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus for fabricating liquid crystal films may optionally include a circulating device, which drives the light modulator and the substrate to move synchronously along a first direction at a first speed.

[0035] In this technical solution, the equipment for manufacturing liquid crystal thin films also includes a circulating operation device. The circulating operation device is used to drive the light modulator and the substrate to move synchronously along a first direction at a first speed, so that the multi-beam linearly polarized light formed after passing through the light modulator can accurately irradiate multiple regions of the light-controlled alignment layer, thereby improving the stability of exposure of the light-controlled alignment layer, improving the accuracy of the orientation reaction of the alignment layer molecules in the light-controlled alignment layer, and improving the accuracy of aligning the orientation of the alignment layer molecules in multiple regions of the light-controlled alignment layer.

[0036] In one embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus for manufacturing liquid crystal films may optionally include a surface treatment device for cleaning the surface of a substrate and / or adjusting its surface energy.

[0037] In this technical solution, the liquid crystal film equipment also includes a surface treatment device. This device is used to clean the substrate surface and / or adjust its surface energy. Cleaning the substrate surface removes impurities and improves its smoothness. Adjusting the surface energy enhances the spreadability and adhesion of the photo-alignment layer, ensuring it adheres smoothly to the substrate and improving its stability and durability after deployment.

[0038] Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0039] The above and / or additional aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent and readily understood from the description of the embodiments taken in conjunction with the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 One of the schematic flowcharts of a method for manufacturing a liquid crystal thin film according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 2 A schematic block diagram of an apparatus for fabricating a liquid crystal film according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of closed-loop operation of an optical modulator according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a planar optical modulator according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 5 A schematic diagram is shown showing linearly polarized exposure light, according to an embodiment of the present invention, being converted into linearly polarized light with different polarization directions after passing through different regions of an optical modulator; Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an optical modulator according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of a substrate, a photo-alignment layer, and a second liquid crystal layer according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0040] in, Figures 1 to 7 The correspondence between the reference numerals and component names in the attached drawings is as follows: 200 Equipment for producing liquid crystal film, 202 First application device, 204 Exposure device, 206 Exposure light source, 208 Light modulator, 216 Circulation device, 220 Second application device, 222 Alignment buffer device, 224 Curing device, 226 Drying device, 230 First guide roller, 232 Second guide roller, 310 Substrate, 320 Photo-controlled alignment layer, 330 Second liquid crystal layer, 340 First liquid crystal layer. Detailed Implementation

[0041] To better understand the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of the present invention, the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. It should be noted that, unless otherwise specified, the embodiments and features described in these embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0042] Many specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a full understanding of the invention. However, the invention may also be practiced in other ways different from those described herein, and therefore the scope of protection of the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0043] The following reference Figures 1 to 7 A method for manufacturing a liquid crystal film and an apparatus 200 for manufacturing a liquid crystal film are described according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, Figure 1 A flowchart illustrating one embodiment of a method for fabricating a liquid crystal thin film according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The first aspect of the present invention provides a method for fabricating a liquid crystal thin film, comprising: S102, applying a photo-alignment layer to at least a portion of the surface of the substrate; S104, control the exposure light source to irradiate multiple first regions of the light-controlled alignment layer after passing through multiple second regions of the light modulator, wherein the exposure light source can generate linearly polarized light with a first preset wavelength, the light modulator has a first liquid crystal layer, the first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer in the same second region have the same arrangement direction, and the first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer in adjacent second regions have different arrangement directions. S106, a second liquid crystal layer is applied to the surface of the photo-controlled alignment layer, wherein the alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer is parallel or perpendicular to the alignment direction of the alignment layer molecules in multiple first regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer. S108, control the light of the second preset wavelength to irradiate the second liquid crystal layer, so that the second liquid crystal molecules undergo a cross-linking and curing reaction to form a liquid crystal film.

[0045] In this embodiment, the method for fabricating a liquid crystal film includes: applying a photo-aligned layer to at least a portion of the surface of a substrate, thereby connecting the substrate and the photo-aligned layer together. An exposure light source is controlled to irradiate multiple first regions of the photo-aligned layer after passing through multiple second regions of a light modulator, thereby exposing the photo-aligned layer. The exposure light source can generate multiple beams of linearly polarized light with a first preset wavelength. The light modulator has a first liquid crystal layer. The first liquid crystal molecules within the first liquid crystal layer in the same second region have the same alignment direction, while the first liquid crystal molecules in adjacent second regions have different alignment directions. This allows the exposure light source to generate multiple beams of linearly polarized light with different linear polarization directions through the multiple regions of the light modulator, enabling the light modulator to adjust the polarization direction of the linearly polarized exposure light passing through the light modulator. The linear polarization directions of the light passing through different regions of the light modulator are different. Multiple first regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer are exposed to multi-beam linearly polarized light, causing the alignment layer molecules within the photo-controlled alignment layer to undergo an orientation reaction upon irradiation with the linearly polarized light. Since the multi-beam linearly polarized light corresponds to multiple regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer, the long axis direction of the alignment layer molecules in these regions is parallel or perpendicular to the polarization direction of the corresponding linearly polarized light, thereby rearranging the orientation of the alignment layer molecules in these regions. A second liquid crystal layer is applied to the surface of the photo-controlled alignment layer to connect it to the photo-controlled alignment layer. The alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer is parallel or perpendicular to the alignment direction of the alignment layer molecules in the multiple first regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer, thereby changing the alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in these regions and giving them a specific alignment direction. The second liquid crystal layer is irradiated with light of a second preset wavelength, causing the second liquid crystal molecules to undergo a cross-linking and curing reaction to form a liquid crystal film. This cross-linking and curing reaction strengthens the interaction between the second liquid crystal molecules, facilitating the formation of a stable liquid crystal film. This application utilizes multiple second regions of the light modulator to generate multiple beams of linearly polarized light with different linear polarization directions to expose multiple alignment layers of the light-controlled alignment layer. This allows the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer to form a liquid crystal film with a specific alignment direction. By precisely controlling the polarization direction of the exposure light through the light modulator in a patterned manner, multi-domain alignment of the second liquid crystal molecules can be achieved in a single exposure, thereby improving the production efficiency of the liquid crystal film.

[0046] Specifically, a second liquid crystal layer is applied to the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer. Under the influence of the alignment layer molecules in the light-controlled alignment layer in contact with it, the second liquid crystal molecules are aligned in a specific direction. That is, the alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer is parallel or perpendicular to the alignment direction of the alignment layer molecules in multiple first regions of the light-controlled alignment layer.

[0047] Specifically, the multiple second regions include at least two sub-regions, that is, the first liquid crystal layer constituting the light modulator contains at least two sub-regions. The first liquid crystal molecules in the same sub-region have the same orientation, while the first liquid crystal molecules in adjacent sub-regions have different orientations. Linearly polarized light of the first preset wavelength remains linearly polarized light after passing through different sub-regions, but the linear polarization direction of the light passing through different sub-regions is deflected by different angles. By setting the first liquid crystal molecules in different sub-regions to have different orientations, the polarization direction of the linearly polarized light can be adjusted. The polarization direction of the exposed light can be precisely controlled in a patterned manner by the light modulator, and multi-domain orientation of liquid crystal molecules can be achieved in one-step exposure.

[0048] Specifically, the light of the first preset wavelength is a beam of parallel light with a single polarization direction.

[0049] Specifically, the liquid crystal layer includes multiple liquid crystal domains. The manufacturing method of this application can form a multi-domain liquid crystal film, which allows specific anti-counterfeiting patterns to be formed on the liquid crystal film, enabling multiple composite anti-counterfeiting features such as polarization images and holographic images.

[0050] Specifically, during the exposure of the photo-aligned layer, the light modulator and the substrate remain relatively stationary, thereby ensuring that the linearly polarized light passing through the light modulator can illuminate the photo-aligned layer.

[0051] In one embodiment of the present invention, optionally, the number of first liquid crystal layers is at least one, and the thickness of the first liquid crystal layer satisfies the half-wave plate condition relative to the first preset wavelength.

[0052] In this embodiment, the number of first liquid crystal layers is at least one, so that the light modulator can adjust the light generated by the exposure light source. The thickness of the first liquid crystal layer satisfies the half-wave plate condition relative to the first preset wavelength, so that the exposure light can be converted into linearly polarized light with different polarization directions after passing through the light modulator.

[0053] In one embodiment of the present invention, after applying a photo-alignment layer to at least a portion of the surface of a substrate, the method for fabricating a liquid crystal film further includes: controlling a drying apparatus to dry the photo-alignment layer to remove solvent from the photo-alignment layer.

[0054] In this embodiment, after applying a photo-alignment layer to at least a portion of the surface of the substrate, a drying device is controlled to dry the photo-alignment layer to remove the solvent within the photo-alignment layer, so that the molecules of the photo-alignment layer can undergo an oriented reaction under the irradiation of linearly polarized exposure light of a first preset wavelength.

[0055] In one embodiment of the present invention, optionally, a second liquid crystal layer is applied to the surface of the photo-alignment layer, wherein the arrangement direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in a plurality of regions of the second liquid crystal layer is parallel or perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the alignment layer molecules in a plurality of first regions of the photo-alignment layer, and the method for fabricating the liquid crystal film further includes: adjusting the temperature of the second liquid crystal layer to a first preset temperature, so that the second liquid crystal layer is in the liquid crystal phase, and drying the second liquid crystal layer to remove the solvent.

[0056] In this embodiment, the temperature of the second liquid crystal layer is adjusted to a first preset temperature so that the second liquid crystal layer is in the liquid crystal phase, and the second liquid crystal layer is dried to remove the solvent. Heating can promote the orientation of the second liquid crystal molecules in the second liquid crystal layer, and drying and solvent removal can facilitate the cross-linking reaction of the second liquid crystal molecules under the irradiation of light of the second preset wavelength.

[0057] In one embodiment of the present invention, optionally, during the exposure of the photo-alignment layer, the cyclic operation device is controlled to drive the light modulator and the substrate to move synchronously along the first direction at a first speed.

[0058] In this embodiment, during the exposure of the photo-controlled alignment layer, the control looping device drives the light modulator and the substrate to move synchronously along the first direction at the first speed, so that the multi-beam linearly polarized light formed after passing through the light modulator can accurately irradiate multiple regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer, thereby improving the stability of the exposure of the photo-controlled alignment layer, improving the accuracy of the orientation reaction of the alignment layer molecules in the photo-controlled alignment layer, and improving the accuracy of rearranging the orientation of the alignment layer molecules in multiple regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer.

[0059] In one embodiment of the present invention, optionally, the first preset temperature is greater than or equal to 50°C and less than or equal to 120°C.

[0060] In this embodiment, the first preset temperature is greater than or equal to 50°C and less than or equal to 120°C, so as to adjust the temperature of the second liquid crystal layer. By setting the first preset temperature to 50°C to 120°C, the molecules in the second liquid crystal layer can promote the orientation and alignment of the second liquid crystal molecules within the second liquid crystal layer.

[0061] Specifically, the first preset temperature is 50°C.

[0062] Specifically, the first preset temperature is 120℃.

[0063] In one embodiment of the present invention, optionally, the first preset wavelength is greater than or equal to 190 nm and less than or equal to 510 nm; the second preset wavelength is greater than or equal to 190 nm and less than or equal to 510 nm.

[0064] In this embodiment, the first preset wavelength is greater than or equal to 190 nm and less than or equal to 510 nm to adjust the wavelength of the linearly polarized light. By setting the wavelength of the linearly polarized light to 190 nm to 510 nm, the molecules in the alignment layer can undergo a directional reaction.

[0065] In one embodiment of the present invention, optionally, the second preset wavelength is greater than or equal to 190 nm and less than or equal to 510 nm.

[0066] In this embodiment, the second preset wavelength is greater than or equal to 190 nm and less than or equal to 510 nm, so as to adjust the second preset wavelength. By setting the second preset wavelength to 190 nm to 510 nm, the second liquid crystal molecules in the second liquid crystal layer undergo a cross-linking reaction.

[0067] Specifically, the first preset wavelength is 190nm.

[0068] Specifically, the first preset wavelength is 400nm.

[0069] Specifically, the first preset wavelength is 510nm.

[0070] Specifically, the second preset wavelength is equal to 190nm.

[0071] Specifically, the second preset wavelength is 400nm.

[0072] Specifically, the second preset wavelength is 510 nm.

[0073] Specifically, linearly polarized light is collimated light that shines perpendicularly onto the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer, thereby improving the stability of the orientation reaction of the alignment layer molecules within the light-controlled alignment layer.

[0074] In one embodiment of the present invention, optionally, applying a light-controlled alignment layer to at least a portion of the surface of a substrate includes: coating the light-controlled alignment layer on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate; or printing the light-controlled alignment layer on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate; or spraying the light-controlled alignment layer onto at least a portion of the surface of the substrate.

[0075] In this embodiment, a light-control alignment layer is coated on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate to achieve the arrangement of the light-control alignment layer. Alternatively, a light-control alignment layer is printed on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate to achieve the arrangement of the light-control alignment layer. Or, a light-control alignment layer is sprayed onto at least a portion of the surface of the substrate to achieve the arrangement of the light-control alignment layer.

[0076] In one embodiment of the present invention, optionally, applying a second liquid crystal layer to the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer includes: coating the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer with a second liquid crystal layer; or printing the second liquid crystal layer on the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer; or spraying the second liquid crystal layer onto the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer.

[0077] In this embodiment, a second liquid crystal layer is coated on the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer to achieve the arrangement of the second liquid crystal layer. Alternatively, a second liquid crystal layer is printed on the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer to achieve the arrangement of the second liquid crystal layer. Finally, a second liquid crystal layer is sprayed onto the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer to achieve the arrangement of the second liquid crystal layer.

[0078] Specifically, the light modulator is a flexible liquid crystal film. The first liquid crystal molecules inside the light modulator cross-link in a predetermined direction to form a flexible film, and the molecular arrangement direction no longer changes.

[0079] Specifically, the light modulator is a flexible liquid crystal film. The first liquid crystal molecules in different regions of the light modulator cross-link in a predetermined direction to form a flexible film, and the molecular arrangement direction no longer changes.

[0080] In one embodiment of the present invention, such as Figure 2 As shown, Figure 2 A schematic block diagram of an apparatus 200 for fabricating a liquid crystal film according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The apparatus 200 includes: a first application device 202, an exposure device 204, a second application device 220, and a curing device 224. The first application device 202 is used to apply a photo-alignment layer 320 to at least a portion of the surface of a substrate 310; as shown... Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, Figure 3 A schematic diagram of closed-loop operation of an optical modulator 208 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; Figure 4 The diagram shows a planar structure of the light modulator 208 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The exposure apparatus 204 includes an exposure light source 206 and a light modulator 208. The exposure light source 206 illuminates multiple first regions of the light-controlled alignment layer 320 after passing through multiple second regions of the light modulator 208. Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, Figure 5 A schematic diagram is shown showing different regions of an exposure light modulator 208 according to an embodiment of the present invention, which are then converted into linearly polarized light with different polarization directions. Figure 6A schematic diagram of a light modulator 208 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, wherein an exposure light source 206 is capable of generating multiple beams of linearly polarized light having a first preset wavelength, the light modulator 208 has a first liquid crystal layer 340, the first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 340 within the same second region have the same alignment direction, and the first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 340 within adjacent second regions have different alignment directions; a second application device 220 is used to apply a second liquid crystal layer 330 to the surface of a light-controlled alignment layer 320, wherein the alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer 330 is parallel or perpendicular to the alignment direction of the alignment layer molecules in multiple first regions of the light-controlled alignment layer 320; a curing device 224 is used to control the light of the second preset wavelength to irradiate the second liquid crystal layer 330, causing the second liquid crystal molecules to undergo a cross-linking curing reaction to form a liquid crystal film.

[0081] In this embodiment, the apparatus 200 for fabricating a liquid crystal film includes: a first application device 202, an exposure device 204, a second application device 220, and a curing device 224. Figure 7 As shown, Figure 7A schematic diagram of a light-controlled alignment layer 320 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; a first application device 202 is used to apply the light-controlled alignment layer 320 to at least a portion of the surface of a substrate 310, thereby connecting the substrate 310 and the light-controlled alignment layer 320 together. Exposure apparatus 204 includes exposure light source 206 and light modulator 208. Exposure light source 206 illuminates multiple first regions of light-controlled alignment layer 320 after passing through multiple second regions of light modulator 208. Exposure light source 206 can generate multiple beams of linearly polarized light with a first preset wavelength. Light modulator 208 has a first liquid crystal layer 340. The first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 340 within the same second region have the same alignment direction, while the first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer 340 within adjacent second regions have different alignment directions. Multiple beams of linearly polarized light with different linear polarization directions can be generated through multiple regions of light modulator 208. Light modulator 208 is used to control the exposure of multiple regions of light-controlled alignment layer 320 by multiple beams of linearly polarized light. Multiple beams of linearly polarized light with different linear polarization directions can be generated through multiple regions of light modulator 208, so that light modulator 208 can adjust the polarization direction of the linearly polarized exposure light passing through light modulator 208. The linear polarization direction of light passing through different regions of light modulator 208 is different. Multiple first regions of the photo-aligned layer 320 are exposed to multi-beam linearly polarized light, causing the alignment layer molecules within the photo-aligned layer 320 to undergo an oriented reaction upon irradiation by the linearly polarized light. Since the multi-beam linearly polarized light corresponds to multiple regions of the photo-aligned layer 320, the long axis direction of the alignment layer molecules in these regions is parallel or perpendicular to the polarization direction of the corresponding linearly polarized light, thereby rearranging the orientation of the alignment layer molecules in these regions and thus changing their orientation. A second application device 220 is used to apply a second liquid crystal layer 330 to the surface of the photo-aligned layer 320, thereby connecting the second liquid crystal layer 330 to the photo-aligned layer 320. The alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer 330 is parallel or perpendicular to the alignment direction of the alignment layer molecules in multiple first regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer 320, thereby changing the alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer 330, so that the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer 330 have a specific alignment direction. The curing device 224 is used to control the light of the second preset wavelength to irradiate the liquid crystal layer 330, so that the second liquid crystal molecules undergo a cross-linking curing reaction. Through the cross-linking curing reaction, the interaction between the second liquid crystal molecules can be made tighter, so as to form a stable liquid crystal film.This application utilizes multiple second regions of the light modulator 208 to generate multiple beams of linearly polarized light with different linear polarization directions to expose multiple alignment layers of the light-controlled alignment layer 320. This allows the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer 330 to have specific alignment directions. By precisely controlling the polarization direction of the exposure light through the light modulator 208 in a patterned manner, multi-domain alignment of the second liquid crystal molecules can be achieved in a single exposure, thereby improving the production efficiency of liquid crystal films.

[0082] Specifically, the exposure apparatus 204 also includes a linear polarization filter, which is located between the light modulator 208 and the exposure light source 206. The exposure light source 206 is used to emit light of a first preset wavelength, which passes through the linear polarization filter and the light modulator 208 in sequence and illuminates the light control alignment layer 320 for exposure. The linear polarization filter is used to convert the light of the first preset wavelength emitted by the exposure light source 206 into linearly polarized light. After passing through different sub-regions of the light modulator 208, the linear polarization direction is deflected at different angles and illuminates different regions of the light control alignment layer 320.

[0083] Specifically, the first preset temperature is greater than or equal to 50℃ and less than or equal to 120℃.

[0084] Specifically, the first preset temperature is 50°C.

[0085] Specifically, the first preset temperature is 120℃.

[0086] Specifically, in Figure 2 In the diagram, arrow D indicates the direction of movement of the substrate 310.

[0087] Specifically, in Figure 5 In the diagram, arrow F represents the exposure light emitted by exposure light source 206, and arrow G represents the polarization direction of linearly polarized light.

[0088] Specifically, in Figure 6 In the image, multiple arrows indicate the polarization direction of the linearly polarized light after adjustment.

[0089] This embodiment provides an apparatus 200 for manufacturing liquid crystal thin films. In addition to the technical features of the above embodiments, this embodiment further includes the following technical features.

[0090] like Figure 2 As shown, the apparatus 200 for manufacturing liquid crystal films also includes a drying device 226, which is used to dry the photo-alignment layer 320 to remove the solvent in the photo-alignment layer 320.

[0091] In this embodiment, the apparatus 200 for fabricating liquid crystal films further includes a drying device 226, which is used to dry the photo-alignment layer 320 to remove the solvent in the photo-alignment layer 320, so that the alignment layer molecules in the photo-alignment layer 320 can undergo an oriented reaction under the irradiation of linearly polarized exposure light of a first preset wavelength.

[0092] This embodiment provides an apparatus 200 for manufacturing liquid crystal thin films. In addition to the technical features of the above embodiments, this embodiment further includes the following technical features.

[0093] The apparatus 200 for making liquid crystal films also includes an alignment buffer device 222, which is used to adjust the temperature of the second liquid crystal layer 330 to a first preset temperature so that the second liquid crystal layer 330 is in the liquid crystal phase, and to dry the second liquid crystal layer 330 to remove solvent.

[0094] In this embodiment, the temperature of the second liquid crystal layer 330 is adjusted to a first preset temperature by the alignment buffer device 222, so that the second liquid crystal layer 330 is in the liquid crystal phase, and the second liquid crystal layer 330 is dried to remove the solvent. Heating can promote the orientation of the second liquid crystal molecules in the second liquid crystal layer 330, so that the second liquid crystal molecules are arranged more orderly in the second liquid crystal layer 330.

[0095] Specifically, the equipment 200 for manufacturing liquid crystal films also includes a substrate conveying device, which is used to move the substrate so that the substrate passes sequentially through the first application device 202, the drying device 226, the exposure device 204, the second application device 220, the alignment buffer device 222, and the curing device 224. By setting up the substrate conveying device, the efficiency of liquid crystal film manufacturing is improved.

[0096] This embodiment provides an apparatus 200 for manufacturing liquid crystal thin films. In addition to the technical features of the above embodiments, this embodiment further includes the following technical features.

[0097] The light modulator is a flat plate type, and the substrate conveying device is a stepping operation device. During the exposure of the light-controlled alignment layer, both the light modulator and the substrate remain stationary.

[0098] In this technical solution, the optical modulator is a flat panel type, and the substrate conveying device is a stepping-type operating device, which allows the stepping-type operating device to drive the substrate movement. During the exposure of the optically controlled alignment layer, both the optical modulator and the substrate remain stationary, which can improve the stability of the exposure of the optically controlled alignment layer.

[0099] This embodiment provides an apparatus 200 for manufacturing liquid crystal thin films. In addition to the technical features of the above embodiments, this embodiment further includes the following technical features.

[0100] The first preset wavelength range is 190nm to 510nm, and the second preset wavelength range is 190nm to 510nm.

[0101] In this technical solution, the curing device 224 includes a curing light source, which can emit light of a second preset wavelength. The range of the second preset wavelength is 190nm to 510nm, so as to adjust the second preset wavelength. By setting the first preset wavelength to 190nm to 510nm, the second liquid crystal molecules in the second liquid crystal layer 330 undergo a cross-linking reaction.

[0102] Specifically, the first preset wavelength is 190nm.

[0103] Specifically, the first preset wavelength is 400nm.

[0104] Specifically, the first preset wavelength is 510nm.

[0105] Specifically, the second preset wavelength is 190nm.

[0106] Specifically, the second preset wavelength is 400nm.

[0107] Specifically, the second preset wavelength is 510nm.

[0108] This embodiment provides an apparatus 200 for manufacturing liquid crystal thin films. In addition to the technical features of the above embodiments, this embodiment further includes the following technical features.

[0109] like Figure 3 As shown, the optical modulator 208 is annular and operates in a closed-loop manner. The substrate conveying device is a continuous operating device. The exposure device 204 also includes a circulating operating device 216, which is used to drive the optical modulator 208 and the substrate 310 to move synchronously along the first direction at a first speed.

[0110] In this embodiment, the light modulator 208 is annular and operates in a closed-loop manner. The substrate conveying device is a continuous operating device. The exposure device 204 also includes a circulating operating device 216. The circulating operating device 216 is used to drive the light modulator 208 and the substrate 310 to move synchronously along a first direction at a first speed, so that the multi-beam linearly polarized light formed after passing through the light modulator 208 can accurately irradiate multiple regions of the light-controlled alignment layer 320, thereby improving the stability of the exposure of the light-controlled alignment layer 320, improving the accuracy of the orientation reaction of the alignment layer molecules in the light-controlled alignment layer 320, and improving the accuracy of rearranging the orientation of the alignment layer molecules in multiple regions of the light-controlled alignment layer 320.

[0111] Specifically, in Figure 3 In the diagram, the arrow on the substrate 310 indicates the direction of movement of the substrate 310, and the arrow on the optical modulator 208 indicates the direction of movement of the optical modulator 208.

[0112] Specifically, the circulating operation device 216 includes a first guide roller 230 and a second guide roller 232. The outer wall of the first guide roller 230 is in contact with the substrate 310 and can drive the substrate 310 to move. The outer wall of the second guide roller 232 is in contact with the light modulator 208 and can drive the light modulator 208 to move.

[0113] Specifically, the equipment 200 for making liquid crystal films also includes a conveying device, which is used to move the substrate 310 so that the substrate 310 can pass through the first application device 202, the exposure device 204, the second application device 220, the alignment buffer device 222 and the curing device 224 in sequence, thereby improving the convenience of liquid crystal film making and improving the production efficiency of liquid crystal films.

[0114] This embodiment provides an apparatus 200 for manufacturing liquid crystal thin films. In addition to the technical features of the above embodiments, this embodiment further includes the following technical features.

[0115] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the exposure light source 206 can emit quasi-linearly polarized light with a first preset wavelength; the light modulator 208 is located between the exposure light source 206 and the substrate 310 and is used to modulate the polarization direction of the quasi-linearly polarized light.

[0116] In this embodiment, the exposure light source 206 emits quasi-linearly polarized light of a first preset wavelength to improve the accuracy of the exposure light source 206 illuminating the light modulator 208. The light modulator 208 is located between the exposure light source 206 and the substrate 310 and is used to modulate the polarization direction of the quasi-linearly polarized light.

[0117] Specifically, the optical modulator 208 modulates the polarization direction of the passing light. Linearly polarized light with a single polarization direction undergoes different angles of deflection after passing through different regions of the optical modulator 208. Incident light with a single linear polarization direction is converted into linearly polarized light with different polarization directions after passing through different sub-regions of the spatial optical modulator 208. Specifically, in Figure 4 In this context, L indicates that the exposed light is quasi-linearly polarized light.

[0118] This embodiment provides an apparatus 200 for manufacturing liquid crystal thin films. In addition to the technical features of the above embodiments, this embodiment further includes the following technical features.

[0119] The apparatus 200 for producing liquid crystal films also includes a surface treatment device for cleaning and / or conditioning the surface of the substrate 310.

[0120] In this embodiment, the apparatus for fabricating the liquid crystal film further includes a surface treatment device for cleaning and / or adjusting the surface energy of the substrate 310. Cleaning the surface of the substrate 310 removes impurities and improves its smoothness. Adjusting the surface energy of the substrate 310 improves the spreadability and adhesion of the photo-alignment layer 320, ensuring it adheres smoothly to the substrate 310 and enhancing its stability and durability after arrangement.

[0121] Specifically, along the direction of movement of the substrate 310, the surface treatment device is used to clean the surface of the substrate 310.

[0122] Specifically, along the direction of movement of the substrate 310, the surface treatment device is used to adjust the surface energy of the substrate 310.

[0123] Specifically, along the direction of movement of the substrate 310, the surface treatment device is used to clean the surface of the substrate 310 and adjust its surface energy.

[0124] Specifically, the first application device 202 includes a first coating device for coating a light-controlled alignment layer 320 on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate 310.

[0125] Specifically, the first application device 202 includes a first printing device for printing a light-controlled alignment layer 320 on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate 310.

[0126] Specifically, the first application device 202 includes a first inkjet device for applying a photo-aligned layer 320 to at least a portion of the surface of the substrate 310 by inkjet application.

[0127] Specifically, the second application device 220 includes a second coating device, and the first coating device is used to coat a liquid crystal layer 330 on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate 310.

[0128] Specifically, the second application device 220 includes a second printing device for printing a liquid crystal layer 330 on the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer 320.

[0129] Specifically, the second application device 220 includes a second inkjet device for spraying liquid crystal layer 330 onto the surface of light-controlled alignment layer 320 by inkjet spraying.

[0130] In the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention, the term "plural" refers to two or more. Unless otherwise explicitly defined, the terms "upper," "lower," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and simplifying the descriptive process, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have the described specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, these descriptions should not be construed as limiting the invention. The terms "connected," "installed," "fixed," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connected" can be a fixed connection between multiple objects, a detachable connection between multiple objects, or an integral connection; it can be a direct connection between multiple objects or an indirect connection between multiple objects through an intermediate medium. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention can be understood based on the specific circumstances described above.

[0131] In the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "specific embodiment," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In the claims, description, and accompanying drawings of this invention, illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0132] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention. Various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention by those skilled in the art. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. An apparatus for making a liquid crystal film, characterized by comprising: include: A first application device is used to apply a photo-aligned layer to at least a portion of the surface of a substrate; An exposure apparatus, comprising an exposure light source and a light modulator, wherein the light modulator operates in a closed-loop manner and is a flexible liquid crystal film, the light modulator having a first liquid crystal layer, wherein the first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer within the same second region are arranged in the same direction, and the first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer within adjacent second regions are arranged in different directions, wherein the first liquid crystal molecules inside the light modulator crosslink in a predetermined direction to form a flexible film, and the molecular arrangement direction no longer changes; The exposure light source illuminates multiple first regions of the light-controlled alignment layer after passing through multiple second regions of the light modulator, wherein the exposure light source is capable of generating multiple beams of linearly polarized light with a first preset wavelength; A circulating operating device is used to drive the light modulator and the substrate to move synchronously along a first direction at a first speed, wherein the light modulator is located between the exposure light source and the substrate. The second application device is used to apply a second liquid crystal layer to the surface of the photo-controlled alignment layer, wherein the arrangement direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in a plurality of regions of the second liquid crystal layer is parallel or perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the alignment layer molecules in a plurality of first regions of the photo-controlled alignment layer. A curing device is used to control light of a second preset wavelength to irradiate the second liquid crystal layer, causing the second liquid crystal molecules to undergo a cross-linking curing reaction to form the liquid crystal film; Wherein, the number of the first liquid crystal layers is at least one layer, and the thickness of the first liquid crystal layer satisfies the half-wave plate condition relative to the first preset wavelength; The light of the first preset wavelength is a beam of parallel light with a single polarization direction; The liquid crystal film is a multi-domain liquid crystal film, and an anti-counterfeiting pattern is formed on the liquid crystal film.

2. The apparatus for manufacturing a liquid crystal thin film according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: A drying device is used to dry the photo-alignment layer to remove the solvent from the photo-alignment layer.

3. The apparatus for manufacturing a liquid crystal thin film according to claim 1, wherein Also includes: An orientation buffer device is used to adjust the temperature of the second liquid crystal layer to a first preset temperature, so that the second liquid crystal layer is in the liquid crystal phase, and to dry the second liquid crystal layer to remove solvent.

4. The apparatus for manufacturing a liquid crystal thin film according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by The first preset wavelength ranges from 190nm to 510nm, and the second preset wavelength ranges from 190nm to 510nm.

5. A method of manufacturing a liquid crystal film, characterized by, include: A photo-aligned layer is applied to at least a portion of the surface of the substrate; The exposure light source is controlled to illuminate multiple first regions of the light-controlled alignment layer after passing through multiple second regions of the light modulator. The light modulator operates in a closed-loop manner and is a flexible liquid crystal film. The light modulator has a first liquid crystal layer. The first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer within the same second region have the same arrangement direction, while the first liquid crystal molecules in the first liquid crystal layer within adjacent second regions have different arrangement directions. The first liquid crystal molecules inside the light modulator crosslink in a predetermined direction to form a flexible film, and the molecular arrangement direction no longer changes. The exposure light source is capable of generating linearly polarized light with a first preset wavelength; During the exposure of the light-controlled alignment layer, the control looping device drives the light modulator and the substrate to move synchronously along the first direction at the first speed, and the light modulator is located between the exposure light source and the substrate; A second liquid crystal layer is applied to the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer, wherein the alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in a plurality of regions of the second liquid crystal layer is parallel or perpendicular to the alignment direction of the alignment layer molecules in a plurality of first regions of the light-controlled alignment layer. The second liquid crystal layer is irradiated with light of a second preset wavelength, causing the second liquid crystal molecules to undergo a cross-linking and curing reaction to form the liquid crystal film; The number of the first liquid crystal layers is at least one, and the thickness of the first liquid crystal layer satisfies the half-wave plate condition relative to the first preset wavelength. The light of the first preset wavelength is a beam of parallel light with a single polarization direction; The liquid crystal film is a multi-domain liquid crystal film, and an anti-counterfeiting pattern is formed on the liquid crystal film.

6. The method for manufacturing a liquid crystal thin film according to claim 5, characterized in that, After applying a photo-alignment layer to at least a portion of the surface of the substrate, the method for fabricating the liquid crystal film further includes: The drying device is controlled to dry the photo-aligned layer to remove the solvent from the photo-aligned layer.

7. The method for manufacturing a liquid crystal thin film according to claim 5, characterized in that, After applying a second liquid crystal layer to the surface of the photo-alignment layer, wherein the alignment direction of the second liquid crystal molecules in multiple regions of the second liquid crystal layer is parallel or perpendicular to the alignment direction of the alignment layer molecules in multiple first regions of the photo-alignment layer, the method for fabricating the liquid crystal film further includes: The temperature of the second liquid crystal layer is adjusted to a first preset temperature so that the second liquid crystal layer is in the liquid crystal phase, and the second liquid crystal layer is dried to remove the solvent.

8. The method for manufacturing a liquid crystal thin film according to claim 7, characterized in that, The first preset temperature is greater than or equal to 50°C and less than or equal to 120°C.

9. The method for manufacturing a liquid crystal thin film according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that, The first preset wavelength is greater than or equal to 190nm and less than or equal to 510nm.

10. The method for manufacturing a liquid crystal thin film according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that, The second preset wavelength is greater than or equal to 190nm and less than or equal to 510nm.

11. The method for manufacturing a liquid crystal thin film according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that, Applying a photo-alignment layer to at least a portion of the surface of the substrate includes: The photo-alignment layer is coated on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate; or The photo-alignment layer is printed on at least a portion of the surface of the substrate; or The light-controlled alignment layer is sprayed onto at least a portion of the surface of the substrate.

12. The method for manufacturing a liquid crystal thin film according to any one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that, Applying a second liquid crystal layer to the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer includes: The second liquid crystal layer is coated on the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer; or The second liquid crystal layer is printed on the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer; or The second liquid crystal layer is sprayed onto the surface of the light-controlled alignment layer.

Images