Electrically Addressed Smectic A Liquid Crystal Displays and their Liquid Crystal Microstructure

Abstract

Bistable electrically addressed smectic A liquid crystal (LC) cells with 6.5" diagonals have been prepared in monochrome and color. A process for converting the focal conic LC microstructure of filled cells into the homeotropic (transparent) texture is discussed. When driven to an opaque state, the LC scatters light, predominantly in a forward direction. This scattering of light allows for preparation of display modules with large viewing angles and excellent sunlight readability.

P-24: Bistable Smectic-A LCDs: Paper-Like Reflective and See-Through Transmissive Modes

“…The FC texture formed after relaxation of the electrohydrodynamic (EHD) instability possesses strong multiple scattering of light passing through it. The main portion of the light is scattered forward [7]. The combination of light scattered backward and the light that underwent Fresnel reflection from the phase boundaries after being scattered forward can be regarded as diffusely reflected.…”

62.3: Reflective Bistable Smectic-A Passive Matrix LCDs

“…Continued attempts to improve the technology were made [5][6][7]. Further development of high voltage electronics lead to cost reductions and quality improvements.…”

“…It is also possible to use side lighting, where the light sources are placed inside the display enclosure in front of the display along its sides. In cases where a compact display module is required, an edge lighting approach can be used [7]. In this case the display is optically coupled with a light guide having a refraction index close to that of ITO glass ( figure 4).…”