Abstract: Liquid crystal polymer matrix displays are disclosed, one of which is capable of changing from a first color to a second color and shades of color therebetween, and the other of which is capable of changing from a first color to a true colorless state and to lower intensities of said first color. Droplets of liquid crystal material containing a dye mixture comprising a positive order parameter dye and a negative order parameter dye, or a positive order parameter dye and a zero order parameter dye, or a negative order parameter dye and a zero order parameter dye, are dispersed in the polymer matrix. The color changes are attained by varying the magnitude of an electric field across the polymer matrix. The optic axes of the liquid crystal material can be partially of fully aligned in one direction during the curing of the polymer matrix thereby enhancing possible color changes.

Abstract: Liquid crystal display apparatus is disclosed wherein a liquid crystal mixture having incorporated therein (a) a positive order parameter dye and a negative order parameter dye, or (b) a zero order parameter dye and a positive order parameter dye, or (c) a zero order parameter dye and a negative order parameter dye, is interposed between transparent electrodes secured to a transparent superstrate and a transparent substrate. An operating voltage wave ranging between 0 volts and an operating voltage which may be as high as 15.6 volts, and of variable frequency, is applied across the transparent electrodes to produce color changes of adjustable frequency in the liquid crystal mixture. Simultaneously, a square voltage wave of 35 Hz is applied across the transparent electrodes to prevent degradation of the liquid crystal mixture. Various modifications are shown which Produce a travelling wave of color changes of adjustable frequency across the liquid crystal display.