Variable Transmittance Optical Device with Liquid Crystal Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing optical devices lack the ability to efficiently switch between high transmittance and low transmittance modes, particularly in varying light conditions such as UV-A, visible, and near-infrared ranges, with limited control over contrast ratios and energy usage.
Innovation Solution
An optical device utilizing an active liquid crystal element film with a guest host liquid crystal layer, capable of switching between oriented states by applying energy, such as voltage, to achieve high contrast ratios with controlled transmittance levels between transparent and black modes, incorporating a polarizer and encapsulated structure for durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional variable transmittance devices are used, then basic transmittance switching is achieved, but control over contrast ratios and energy usage is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of transmittance by enabling the liquid crystal layer to switch between different oriented states (horizontal and vertical) in response to applied voltage. This dynamic reorientation allows continuous adjustment of transmittance levels rather than fixed binary states, providing both energy efficiency (by maintaining stable states) and precise control (by enabling intermediate states).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameter of liquid crystal molecular orientation from fixed to variable. By controlling the orientation angle of liquid crystal molecules through applied voltage, the system can dynamically adjust transmittance across a continuous range, resolving the contradiction between energy consumption and control precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If transmittance switching capability is added, then functionality is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the polarizing layer and liquid crystal layer into a single integrated structure where the liquid crystal layer itself performs the polarization function through its anisotropic optical properties. This merging eliminates the need for separate polarizing films and reduces overall device complexity while maintaining full transmittance switching capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid crystal layer serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the switching element and the polarization element. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, thereby reducing device complexity while preserving adaptability for various transmittance control applications.
3Illumination intensity
If liquid crystal layer is made thicker to improve optical performance, then transmittance control is improved, but response time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the liquid crystal layer into regions with different thicknesses or orientations, allowing different portions to respond at different rates. This segmentation enables the overall system to achieve both good transmittance control (through cumulative effect of multiple segments) and fast response (through parallel operation of thinner segments).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic switching of voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer, using pulsed or alternating voltage patterns that exploit the relaxation dynamics of liquid crystal molecules. This periodic action enables faster effective response times by resetting the molecular orientation periodically, preventing buildup of slow-response effects that would occur with continuous DC voltage.
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 optical device effectively varies transmittance across desired ranges, offering high contrast ratios with reduced energy consumption and improved durability for applications like eyewear and vehicle sunroofs, maintaining performance under various environmental conditions.
Implementation Method 1
an active liquid crystal element film, in which a liquid crystal layer having a guest host effect is used as the active liquid crystal layer. The liquid crystal layer may switch between a first oriented state and a second oriented state different from the first oriented state
Implementation Method 2
a liquid crystal layer having a guest host effect is used as the active liquid crystal layer
Implementation Method 3
incorporating a polarizer and encapsulated structure for durability
Implementation Method 4
an adhesive film may be present between the outer substrate and the active liquid crystal element film, between the active liquid crystal element film and the polarizer, and/or between the polarizer and the outer substrate
Data Source
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AI summary
The present application relates to an optical device. The present application provides an optical device capable of varying transmittance, and such an optical device can be used for various applications such as eyewear, for example, sunglasses or AR (augmented reality) or VR (virtual reality) eyewear, an outer wall of a building or a sunroof for a vehicle.