Triple-State Liquid Crystal Device Voltage 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 application in achieving a triple state 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 the applied voltage frequency and level.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering 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 application versatility and functional complexity are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveapplication versatilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a triple-state liquid crystal device that dynamically switches between three distinct states (transparent white, transparent black, and scattering) by controlling the liquid crystal alignment through different voltage frequencies and levels. This dynamic multi-state capability enhances application versatility while maintaining a relatively simple device structure, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent utilizes parameter changes in the liquid crystal layer, specifically controlling the parallel conductivity within a specific range (1.0×10^-5 to 1.0×10^-4 S/cm) and varying the frequency and level of applied voltage to achieve different optical states. By precisely controlling these parameters, the device achieves triple-state functionality without requiring complex structural modifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Adaptability or versatility

If the parallel conductivity of the liquid crystal layer is adjusted to a specific range, then the triple state switching capability is achieved, but the manufacturing precision and material control requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetriple state switching capabilityVSAvoidconductivity control precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent specifies a particular range for parallel conductivity (1.0×10^-5 to 1.0×10^-4 S/cm) to enable triple-state switching. By defining this specific parameter range, the patent balances the achievement of versatile state switching with manageable manufacturing precision requirements, avoiding overly stringent control demands while ensuring functional performance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 achieves the desired transmittance and haze values for each state, enabling broader applications in light modulation, including smart windows and displays, by controlling the conductivity of the liquid crystal layer.

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

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLiquid crystal alignment switching: Liquid Crystals

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

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectro-optic effect: Electro-Optic Effects

Implementation Method 3

The liquid crystal layer has a parallel conductivity of 1.0 × 10^-5 to 1.0 × 10^-4 S/cm

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentEP3279724B1Liquid crystal device
Publication Date: 2021.09.15 LG CHEM LTD
  • EP3279724B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3279724B1 patent drawingFigure 4
  • EP3279724B1 patent drawingFigure 5

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 frequency and/or level of an applied voltage. 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.