Triple-State Liquid Crystal Device Conductivity Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid crystal devices can only switch between two states, such as transparent white and transparent black, or transparent white and scattering, limiting their applications in achieving all three states of transparent white, transparent black, and scattering with specific transmittance and haze values.
Innovation Solution
A triple state liquid crystal device is developed, capable of realizing transparent white, transparent black, and scattering states by adjusting the parallel conductivity of the liquid crystal layer to specific ranges, allowing inter-switching among these states through varying voltage levels and frequencies, with parallel conductivity measured between 1.0 × 10^-4 S/cm and 1.0 × 10^-3 S/cm.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional liquid crystal device switches between only two states (transparent white and transparent black, or transparent white and scattering), then the device structure and control mechanism remain simple, but the versatility and range of applications are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by precisely controlling the parallel conductivity of the liquid crystal layer within specific ranges (1.0×10^-4 to 1.0×10^-3 S/cm) to enable the device to achieve three distinct states (transparent white, transparent black, and scattering) with specific transmittance and haze values, thereby expanding the range of states without fundamentally changing the device structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves multi-functionality by designing a liquid crystal device that can perform multiple functions - displaying transparent white images, transparent black images, and scattering images - using a single device structure with controlled liquid crystal conductivity, making the device universally applicable for various display modes and applications
2Manufacturing precision
If the parallel conductivity of the liquid crystal layer is controlled within specific ranges to achieve three distinct states, then the transmittance and haze values for each state are precisely controlled, but the manufacturing precision and material selection requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies precise conductivity ranges (1.0×10^-4 to 1.0×10^-3 S/cm) for the liquid crystal layer to achieve desired optical properties in three different states, demonstrating parameter changes by controlling electrical conductivity to obtain specific transmittance and haze values for each display state
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by formulating a liquid crystal composition that includes multiple components (liquid crystal compounds, chiral agents, and additives) to achieve the target parallel conductivity range and maintain stable optical properties across different display states
3Adaptability or versatility
If voltage levels and frequencies are varied to inter-switch among three states, then the device versatility is enhanced, but the control mechanism and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by enabling the liquid crystal device to dynamically switch between three distinct states (transparent white, transparent black, and scattering) through varying voltage levels and frequencies, allowing the device to adapt its optical properties in real-time based on operational requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes periodic action by applying alternating voltage at specific frequencies to the liquid crystal layer to achieve state transitions, leveraging the periodic nature of AC voltage to control the orientation and conductivity of liquid crystal molecules for different display states
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device effectively switches between the three states, achieving desired transmittance and haze values, enhancing its versatility for applications like smart windows, displays, and 3D image displays by controlling conductivity and voltage levels.
Implementation Method 1
A liquid crystal device may control light transmittance by switching an alignment state of liquid crystals by an external signal such as an applied voltage
Implementation Method 2
The liquid crystal device may control light transmittance by switching an alignment state of liquid crystals by an external signal such as an applied voltage
Implementation Method 3
The liquid crystal layer has a parallel conductivity of 1.0 × 10^-4 S/cm to 1.0 × 10^-3 S/cm, and thus the liquid crystal device may realize a transparent white state, a transparent black state and a scattering state according to a level of an applied voltage at the same frequency
Data Source
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AI summary
The present application relates to a liquid crystal device. The liquid crystal device of the present application may realize a transparent white state, a transparent black state and a scattering state according to a level of an applied voltage at a fixed frequency. The liquid crystal device may be applied to, for example, a window of a vehicle, a smart window, a window protective film, a display, a light cutoff panel for a display, an active retarder for a 3D image display or a viewing angle controlling film.