Development of a Silicon Liquid-Crystal Light Valve for Multimode Operation.
Abstract
The aim of this program has been to develop the silicon photoconductor liquid crystal light valve (LCLV) as a second-generation, higher-performance device, as well as to optimize the multimode operation of the liquid crystal. The latter effort was primarily aimed at allowing a full-performance CdS LCLV to be realized, given the switching-ratio limitation of this device, as well as to allow the silicon LCLV, when completed, to fully benefit from this development. This program has resulted in the successful development of a silicon LCLV in which we have solved the edge breakdown effect, developed a novel Si/Si02 dielectric mirror, implemented a focusing-grid to improve resolution and scaled up the device from a 1 cm x 1 cm aperture to a 2 in. aperture device. This has resulted in a fast-response, high switching-ratio device approaching the resolution performance of the CdS light valve. The LC multimode operation has been successfully optimized, resulting in a practical demonstration of a back-slope-type operation applicable to the switching-ratio-limited CdS devices. Results of the theoretical model developed for the liquid crystal operation were in good agreement with experimental measurements.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA123887
Entities
People
- E. Weiner-avnear
- J. Grinberg
- M. J. Little
- P. O. Braatz
- U. Efron
Organizations
- HRL Laboratories