Patents Assigned to Linear Optics Company, Inc.
  • Patent number: 4888126
    Abstract: An improved light modulating material for use in electro-optic and thermo-optic display devices is produced by forming a homogeneous solution comprising an acrylic resin containing active hydrogen groups, a liquid crystal material, a diisocyanate or epoxide, and a solvent. The homogeneous solution is preferably applied to a conductive substrate and the solvent is then evaporated, causing phase separation resulting in formation of a liquid crystal phase dispersed within a solid polymer matrix. Application of an electric field to the substrate causes the liquid crystal material to align, which in turn causes the coating to switch from substantially translucent to substantially transparent. If the electric field is removed the light modulating material again becomes substantially translucent. Switching times can be improved by incorporating a titanate or zirconate organometallic material into the light modulating material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1987
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1989
    Assignee: Linear Optics Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick W. Mullen, Frederick E. Nobile