Ambient Light Control Using Guest Host Liquid-Crystal Dye Systems

Abstract

This program developed a technology for varying the transmittance of flight-helmet visors from 15-60% under electronic control. It is based on controlling the orientation of dichroic dye molecules, using liquid crystal. No polarizers are used, scattering is low, the color is neutral, the power requirement is low, and the failure mode is clear, i.e., the visor reverts to its maximally transmitting state when power is removed. Demonstration devices were produced on flat PET plastic substrates and toroidal polycarbonate visors of the type used with the HGU-55/P flight helmet. Technical details of the program, remaining problems, and plans for commercialization are discussed.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 01, 2003
Accession Number
ADA418046

Entities

People

  • Bahman Taheri

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Human Systems

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Absorption
  • Air Force
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Birefringence
  • Computer Programs
  • Data Displays
  • Differential Equations
  • Electro-Optics
  • Fabrication
  • Failure Mode And Effect Analysis
  • Geometry
  • Liquid Crystals
  • Manufacturing
  • Optical Properties
  • Optics
  • Scattering
  • Visible Spectra

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Materials Science
  • Software Engineering
  • Spectroscopy.

Technology Areas

  • Microelectronics