Abstract: An image display comprises at least one display device having a first pair of transparent conductive layers, a second pair of transparent conductive layers spaced apart from the first pair transparent conductive layers, a display layer disposed between the first pair of transparent conductive layers, the display layer configured to display an image in response to a first set of voltages applied to the first pair of transparent conductive layers, and a light control layer disposed between the second pair of transparent conductive layers, the light control layer configured to operate in one of a transmissive mode to allow an incident light to pass toward the display layer and a reflective mode to reflect an incident light away from the display layer in response to a second set of voltages applied to the second pair of transparent conductive layers.

Abstract: A display device for capturing and displaying images along a single optical axis, having an image capture device for capturing the objective image through the display panel when the display device is in a second transmissive state; an image supply source for providing an image to a display panel when the display panel is in a first display state; a mechanism for alternating placing the display panel between the first display state and second transmissive state such that an image can be viewed on the display screen and the object can be captured such that the alternating between the first display state and the second transmissive state is substantially imperceptible to a user of the display panel; and a mechanism for providing digitally image processing for captured images prior to display.

Abstract: A controller or control method may be designed or configured to operate without information about the current temperature of the device and/or the device's environment. Further, in some cases, the controller or control method is designed or configured to control transition of an optical device to an intermediated state between two end states. For example, the controller may be configured to control a transition to a state of transmissivity that is intermediate between two end states of transmissivity. In such case, the device has three or more stable states of transmissivity.

Abstract: A variable light transmittance window includes: a substrate configured to transmit light; a thermochromic layer on the substrate; first function thin film layers on opposite surfaces of the thermochromic layer; and second function thin film layers on respective surfaces of the first function thin film layers opposite the thermochromic layer, wherein a difference between refractive indices of the first function thin film layers and the second function thin film layers is greater than a difference between refractive indices of the first function thin film layers and the thermochromic layer.

Abstract: An electronic blind and method for manufacturing an electronic blind, for whole or partial area light control management includes a pair of substrates, polymer/liquid crystal composite material sandwiched between the pair of substrates, and a pair of electrodes formed on an opposing surface of the pair of substrates. One electrode of the pair of electrodes is patterned over one substrate in line form at intervals from one side to the other side of the substrate, and an other electrode of the pair of electrodes is formed over the entire surface of another substrate.

Abstract: A system for selectively revealing indicia to an observer comprises a transitioning window having a receiving surface and a viewing surface. The receiving surface is positioned in optical communication with an indicia holder that is configured to removably retain indicia, such as information content. During operation, the transitioning window transitions from a substantially opaque state to a substantially transparent state so as to reveal or otherwise display the indicia to an observer via the viewing surface.

Abstract: A system for selectively revealing indicia includes a transitioning assembly that is configured to be retrofit with an existing dispenser. The transitioning assembly includes a transitioning window that is coupled to a switch that is configured to be mounted in operative contact with an actuator provided by the dispenser. Upon the engagement of the actuator, the switch is triggered, resulting in the transitioning window transitioning from an at least partially opaque state to an at least partially transparent state, so as to reveal indicia therebehind to an observer.

Abstract: A combination of an LCD display and a gaming machine includes an LCD comprising a touchscreen, a liquid crystal panel, a backlight module, printed circuit boards, and a rear cover having an opening wherein the backlight module comprises, from front to rear, four optical films each having three openings, three barrier films, a light guide having three openings, two light sources on top and bottom edges of the light guide respectively, a reflecting film having three openings, and a frame plate having three openings, the barrier films functions as a visual barrier or a transparent member by adjusting voltage applied thereto, and the openings are aligned one another; a plurality of revolving wheels disposed behind the LCD, each wheel comprising a plurality of symbols arranged annually thereon. One pattern including the symbols of the wheels behind the openings is illuminated by the light source.

Abstract: Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to ruggedized switchable glazings, and/or methods of making the same. The PDLC stack of certain example embodiments includes an outer substrate, a low-E UV blocking coating deposited on an inner surface of the outer substrate, a first PVB or EVA laminate, a first PET layer, a first TCO layer, the PDLC layer, a second TCO layer, a second PET layer, a second PVB or EVA laminate, and an inner substrate. The substrates may be glass substrates. The low-E UV blocking coating may include at least two layers of or including silver and/or may include one or more IR layers. Thus, certain example embodiments may advantageously reduce one or more problems associated with residual haze, color change, flicker, structural changes in the polymer and/or the LC, degradations in state-switching response times, delamination, etc.

Abstract: The focal distance can be greatly changed by performing an electrical control in an optical element. The optical element comprises a first substrate having a first electrode, a second substrate, a second electrode arranged outside the second substrate, and a liquid crystal layer provided between the first substrate and the second substrate and constituted by liquid crystal molecules oriented. A first voltage is applied between the first electrode and the second electrode, thereby controlling the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules, whereby the optical element operates. A third electrode is provided on an insulating layer and outside the second electrode. A second voltage independent of the first voltage is applied to the third electrode, thereby changing the optical properties.

Abstract: Disclosed are thermal tuning glazing structures for selectively reflecting electromagnetic radiation for use in dynamically controlling electromagnetic radiation flow in various applications such as intelligent energy saving windows. The thermal tuning glazing structure comprises one or more cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) panels, each CLC panel comprising a CLC material, the CLC material being in a planar texture at least at one temperature, having a pitch that changes with temperature, and having a broad reflection band.

Abstract: An article undergoing stimulus-induced deformation, that is capable of being driven rapidly and in large displacement in air, is provided. An article undergoing stimulus-induced deformation comprising, incorporated in a polymer material having a cell, a liquid crystal serving as a deformation source in a skeleton other than the cell.

Abstract: Glazing assembly, comprising in succession: a first rigid substrate (S1), a second rigid substrate (S2), at least one active system (3) comprising at least one film and placed between the substrates (S1 and S2), at least one polymer film (f1) having the function of retaining fragments of the glazing assembly should it break, the said film being placed between the substrate (S1) and the substrate (S2), characterized in that the active system (3) is on the inner face (2) of the substrate (S1).

Abstract: A window having electrically controllable transmission and reflection includes a layer of liquid crystal material and polarizers on either side thereof. Different combinations of absorptive and reflective polarizers are disclosed. These different combinations can be used in different applications to achieve the desired results. Transparent, conductive layers are provided to apply an electrical field to the liquid crystal material so as to selectively control the rotation of the polarization of light passing therethrough.

Abstract: A process for producing a light-reflective film is disclosed. The process comprises (a) applying a curable liquid crystal composition to a first film having a thickness of d1; (b) drying the applied curable liquid crystal composition to form a cholesteric liquid crystal phase; (c) carrying out a curing reaction of the curable liquid crystal composition and fixing the cholesteric liquid crystal phase to form a lower layer; (d) repeating the set of the steps (a)-(c) three or more times on the lower layer to form a light-reflective multilayer having four or more layers of a fixed cholesteric liquid crystal phase; and (e) transferring the light-reflective multilayer, formed on the first film, onto a second film having a thickness of d2 which is smaller than d1; wherein the first film, fulfilling the condition of formula (1), is used. ( d 1 ) 2 × ( Y 1 ) ( d 3 ) × ( 1 - P 1 ) ? 0.

Abstract: A display device includes: a first substrate; a gate line formed on the first substrate; a first switching device connected to the gate line; a pixel electrode connected to the first switching device; a light-receiving device formed on the first substrate and which senses infrared light; and a light-shielding pattern disposed between the first substrate and the light receiving device. The light-shielding pattern overlaps the light-receiving device and blocks light.

Abstract: A liquid crystal display (LCD) system is provided. The LCD system includes a light source and a self-contained display unit including at least a LCD panel and a light guide plate coupled together, wherein the light guide plate is configured to guide light from the light source to the LCD panel as backlight and to structurally support the LCD panel. Further, a plurality of pre-made hollow spaces are contained in the display unit configured to host components of the LCD system. The LCD system also includes a controller contained in the plurality of pre-made hollow spaces and coupled to the LCD panel to control the LCD panel such that the light passing through the light guide plate is used as backlight for operation of the LCD panel.

Abstract: A sun protection system for a transportation vehicle has plurality of LCD zones laminated into one or more glazings of the vehicle. An occupant sensor detects an expanse of at least one occupant in the vehicle. A navigation system determines a vehicle location, a date and time value, and a heading. External and internal temperature sensors sense outside and inside temperatures. A controller generates respective drive signals for the respective LCD zones in a manual mode and in an automatic mode. The controller compares a temperature difference between the outside temperature and the inside temperature to a temperature threshold. The respective drive signals provide substantially zero attenuation if the temperature difference is less than the temperature threshold while in the automatic mode.

Abstract: Disclosed is a shading device for a welding helmet in which a circuit portion (the second frame) having a high error rate and the remaining portion can be separated from each other and only the circuit portion separated from the device can be repaired or changed, thereby the maintenance and repair are harmoniously. The shading device for a welding helmet comprising a first frame comprises a first body having a LCD module with contacting portions formed at both sides of a LCD window and a first joint portion formed at one end portion of the first body, a second frame comprising a second body 32 having a power supplying portion and a second joint portion attachable and deattachable to the first joint portion of the first frame at one end portion thereof, a pair of electrodes having one side thereof electrically contacted with the contacting portions respectively, and an electrically conductive means for electrically connecting the power supplying portion with the corresponded electrodes.

Abstract: The claimed inventions are intended to be used in glazing of buildings and vehicles. The effect consists in power input savings and in creating ability of a self-contained power supply source. The method for regulation of translucence of glazing or transparent or translucent oilcloth, envisaging power supply of including as their component at least one current conductor film with adjoining to it liquid crystalline layer and regulation of voltage is characterized by regulation of voltage of constant current within the limits of 12 volts or of frequency of alternating current. The device may contain an autonomous constant power supply source provided with a heliopower battery and mounted or built in the glazing or oilcloth and/or with a microprocessor regulator of frequency or voltage.

Abstract: A thermally switched optical downconverting (TSOD) filter is a self-regulating device including a downconverter that converts incoming light at a variety of wavelengths into longer-wavelength radiation and then directs it using one or more bandblock filters in either the inward or outward direction, depending on the temperature of the device. This control over the flow of radiant energy occurs independently of the thermal conductivity or insulating properties of the device and may or may not preserve the image and color properties of incoming visible light. The TSOD filter is energy-efficient as it can be used to regulate the internal temperature and illumination of buildings, vehicles, and other structures without the need for an external power supply or operator signals. The TSOD filter has unique aesthetic and optical properties not found in traditional windows, skylights, stained glass, light fixtures, glass blocks, bricks, or walls.

Abstract: There is provided a light-transmitting structure of a display panel for a slot machine using an electronic reel game scheme that is capable of playing other games on a reel game. The structure is located behind a touch pad. The structure allows a gamer to selectively play a typical display-based game through a separate game program while playing the reel game.

Abstract: An auto light-shading system is disclosed, which includes a photovoltaic module for providing an electric power, a liquid crystal panel connected to and driven by the photovoltaic module, and a UV filter applied on the liquid crystal panel. A light transmittance of the light-shading device is determined by an output power of the electric power of the photovoltaic module.

Abstract: In an aspect, described herein is a dynamically controllable optoelectronic smart window which utilizes a diffraction grating for selective transmission or rejection of a specific region of the electromagnetic spectrum, for example the infrared, near-infrared and/or visible regions. Window embodiments described herein may further utilize a selectively controlled and/or patterned total internal reflection layer to assist with the selective rejection of a specific spectral region while allowing for transmission of another specific spectral region. In another aspect, the present invention provides methods for dynamically controlling the transmission or rejection of solar near-infrared and/or visible radiation.

Abstract: Disclosed are thermal tuning glazing structures for selectively reflecting electromagnetic radiation for use in dynamically controlling electromagnetic radiation flow in various applications such as intelligent energy saving windows. The thermal tuning glazing structure comprises one or more cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) panels, each CLC panel comprising a CLC material, the CLC material being in a planar texture at least at one temperature, having a pitch that changes with temperature, and having a broad reflection band.

Abstract: An electronic apparatus with a protective panel, includes a display device 3 having a display section 3A, an enclosure 2 having a display window 2A which is open in one direction and mounts therein the display device 3 so as to expose the display section 5A to the outside, a protective panel 4 disposed at the display window 2A so as to cover the display section 3A from the outside; and a pressure-sensitive conductive rubber 14 interposed between a movable portion M including at least the protective panel 4 of the protective panel 4 and the display device 3 and a frame-like support portion 2b defined by a surface of the enclosure 2 within the display window 2A, so as to prevent intrusion of foreign substance to the interior of the enclosure 2 through the display window 2A, the rubber detecting a depressing operation on the movable portion M.

Abstract: A dual-mode projection apparatus has a projection module for projecting an image onto a projection surface. An image sensor module captures images of the projection surface and determines spatial and temporal characteristics of a visible light spot superimposed on the projection surface. A communications module transmits the spatial and temporal characteristics of the visible light spot to a remote device for remote control of the device based on the spatial and temporal characteristics of the visible light spot.

Abstract: A casing 20 of a mobile phone body is provided with a sub-liquid-crystal display panel 23, a projector lens 26, a light source 35 including an LED. The sub-liquid-crystal display panel 23 and the projector lens 26 are movable between a normal position contained within the casing 20 and a raised position raised from the normal position. The sub-liquid-crystal display panel 23 is fixed at the raised position roughly perpendicularly to the light axis Q between the-sub-liquid-crystal display panel 23 and the light source 35 so that the light axis of the projector lens 26 is substantially aligned with the light axis Q. The illumination light from the light source is set to be parallel rays.

Abstract: A stereoscopic display device using an electrically-driven liquid crystal lens is disclosed. The stereoscopic display device includes a display panel, a light source to emit light, and an electrically-driven liquid crystal lens provided between the display panel and the light source and having a reflective electrode to intercept a part of the light emitted from the light source, the electrically-driven liquid crystal lens enabling a wide viewing angle or narrow viewing angle display according to whether or not voltages are applied thereto.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing electrically tintable window glass with a variety of sizes and functionalities is described. The method comprises: (a) providing a large format glass substrate; (b) fabricating a plurality of electrically tintable thin film devices on the large format glass substrate; (c) cutting the large format glass substrate into a plurality of electrically tintable pieces, each electrically tintable piece including one of the plurality of electrically tintable thin film devices; (d) providing a plurality of window glass pieces; (e) matching each one of the plurality of electrically tintable pieces with a corresponding one of the plurality of window glass pieces; and (f) laminating each of the matched electrically tintable pieces and window glass pieces. The lamination may result in the electrically tintable device either being sandwiched between the glass substrate and the window glass piece or on the surface of the laminated pieces. The electrically tintable device is an electrochromic device.

Abstract: A display device for capturing and displaying images along a single optical axis, having an image capture device for capturing the objective image through the display panel when the display device is in a second transmissive state; an image supply source for providing an image to a display panel when the display panel is in a first display state; a mechanism for alternating placing the display panel between the first display state and second transmissive state such that an image can be viewed on the display screen and the object can be captured such that the alternating between the first display state and the second transmissive state is substantially imperceptible to a user of the display panel; and a mechanism for providing digitally image processing for captured images prior to display.

Abstract: The present optical system comprises a forward observation optical system, an entire lateral circumference-observation optical system, a variable stop arranged on the image side of the observation optical system, an image-forming optical system, and an image pickup element, and the variable stop is formed so as to be capable of switching an observation field of view at least to a first observation field of view including only a forward field of view and to a second observation field of view including a forward field of view with a narrower angle than that of the first observation field of view and a field of view of the entire lateral circumference. The observation optical system is arranged on the object side of the opening in the central position of the observation optical system.

Abstract: System including enclosure having smart glass panels and related method.

Abstract: A stereoscopic 3D display with stretched film. The display includes a liquid crystal display panel, drive electronics configured to drive the liquid crystal display panel with alternating left eye and right eye images, and a light guide and a backlight positioned to provide light to the liquid crystal display. A frame is positioned between the liquid crystal display panel and the light guide, and a 3D film is stretched over the frame.

Abstract: Provided are multilayer laminates having one or more layers comprising twisted nematic liquid crystals and one or more layers of a polymeric sheet comprising a polymer with a modulus of 20,000 psi (138 MPa) or less. The twisted nematic liquid crystal layers reflect infrared radiation. Thus, the multilayer laminates are useful to reduce the transmission of infrared energy. For example, in some embodiments the multilayer laminates are useful as windows to reduce energy consumption necessary to cool the interior of a structure such as an automobile or building. Preferably, the multilayer laminates retain the beneficial properties of safety glass. The multilayer laminates may include additional layers such as infrared absorbing layers, half wave plates, and the like, to minimize the transmission of infrared energy. The multilayer laminates may also include further additional layers such as polymeric films, polymeric sheets, rigid sheets, and the like.

Abstract: An electrically programmable reticle is made using at least one electrochromatic layer that changes its optical transmissibility in response to applied voltages. Transparent conductor layers are configured to the desired patterns. The electrically programmable reticles are either patterned in continuous forms that have separately applied voltages or in a matrix of rows and columns that are addressed by row and column selects such that desired patterns are formed with the application of a first voltage level and reset with the application of a second voltage level.

Abstract: A system for selectively revealing indicia to an observer comprises a transitioning window having a receiving surface and a viewing surface. The receiving surface is positioned in optical communication with an indicia holder that is configured to removably retain indicia, such as information content. During operation, the transitioning window transitions from a substantially opaque state to a substantially transparent state so as to reveal or otherwise display the indicia to an observer via the viewing surface.

Abstract: Glazing comprising, in succession: a first rigid substrate (S1); a second rigid substrate (S2); a third rigid substrate (S3); at least one “active” system (A) that includes at least one layer and is placed between the substrates (S1 and S2), the first substrate (S1) optionally being set back in relation to the other two substrates (S2, S3); and at least one polymer film having the function of retaining glazing fragments should the glazing break, said film being placed between the substrate (S1) and the substrate (S2) and between the substrate (S2) and the substrate (S3).

Abstract: A liquid crystal glare-proof mirror is capable of displaying a picture in which a non-glare-proof mode and a glare-proof mode is switched, including a first polarizing plate for selecting a polarization component to be transmitted; a liquid crystal cell disposed at a back of the first polarizing plate, the liquid crystal cell having two control areas, each of which is controlled independently; a second polarizing plate disposed at a back of the liquid crystal cell, the second polarizing plate transmitting either one of two orthogonal polarization components of light and reflecting the other one of the polarization components; and an image generating apparatus disposed at a part of a back of the second polarizing plate, the part corresponding to either one of the two control areas, the image generating apparatus ejecting picture light having a polarization component which is transmitted through the second polarizing plate.

Abstract: The embodiment discloses an electronic blind and method for manufacturing electronic blind, for the whole or partial area light control management. An electronic blind that comprises a pair of substrates, polymer/liquid crystal composite material sandwiched between the pair of substrates, and a pair of electrodes formed on an opposing surface of the pair of substrates, one electrode of the pair of electrodes being patterned over one substrate in line form at intervals from one side to the other side of the substrate, other electrode of the pair of electrodes being formed over whole the surface of another substrate.

Abstract: In an aspect, described herein is a dynamically controllable optoelectronic smart window which utilizes a diffraction grating for selective transmission or rejection of a specific region of the electromagnetic spectrum, for example the infrared, near-infrared and/or visible regions. Window embodiments described herein may further utilize a selectively controlled and/or patterned total internal reflection layer to assist with the selective rejection of a specific spectral region while allowing for transmission of another specific spectral region. In another aspect, the present invention provides methods for dynamically controlling the transmission or rejection of solar near-infrared and/or visible radiation.

Abstract: A bistable switchable liquid crystal device is provided in which the device can be switched between a transparent and an opaque state by a predetermined voltage pulse. The device is based on polymer stabilized cholesteric materials. No additional amount of voltage has to be applied to the device in order to sustain the optical states. Therefore, the device is energy-saving.

Abstract: A window having electrically controllable transmission and reflection includes a layer of liquid crystal material and polarizers on either side thereof. Different combinations of absorptive and reflective polarizers are disclosed. These different combinations can be used in different applications to achieve the desired results. Transparent, conductive layers are provided to apply an electrical field to the liquid crystal material so as to selectively control the rotation of the polarization of light passing therethrough.

Abstract: A laminated glazing comprises two plies of glass having an interlayer structure laminated therebetween. The interlayer structure comprises a first sheet of an interlayer material framing a liquid crystal film incorporated therein. Preferably, the interlayer material does not contain plasticizers, or contains a plasticizer which does not diffuse into the liquid crystal film structure. In addition, the interlayer material preferably resists the migration of mobile liquid crystal film components.

Abstract: My invention will be used to cut down utility costs in homes and buildings, be a burglar deterrent, as becoming opaque is one of the features, and replacing car windshield sun blocks as well as blinds in school, buildings, homes, etc. The photosensitivity is manipulated through voltage input. In NYC in January for example, persons would set film to dark mode to activate the darker tint to absorb the heat of the light, whereas white or mirrored mode would be deactivated; visa Versa during the summer in NYC. This is meant to be green as it will cut down utility costs immensely and by being able to manipulate the voltage manually, you set how sensitive the photosensitive film is from no voltage manipulation to opaque.

Abstract: The present invention is a novel masking device to change the appearance of a control or display system in a manner which adds to its aesthetic appearance. Electrically activated or switchable films are incorporated into the control or display allowing the outward appearance to be altered between at least two visual conditions. The area may change in color, pattern, transparency or reflectivity. Such a masking apparatus can be employed where a display or control system is desired to be concealed, camouflaged or altered in its appearance.

Abstract: A see-through display apparatus and a method thereof are provided. The see-through display apparatus includes: a screen which changes its transparency by varying its light scattering properties; a projector which projects an image onto the screen; and a control unit which controls a change of transparency of the screen. Accordingly, an image can be clearly displayed on the screen by controlling light scattering and non-scattering states of the screen, and also a user can monitor the external environment through the screen.

Abstract: A viewing angle control element of the present invention contains transparent regions 23 having a transmittance T1 and light shield regions 24 capable of switching between a transmittance T2 and a transmittance T3 which is less than T1 and T2 according to an external signal. Each of the transparent regions 23 and the light shield regions 24 is positioned opposite to one of pixels. Displays are produced at or close to the original brightness of the image display element in wide viewing angle mode, whereas in narrow viewing angle mode, light transmission is limited to achieve narrow viewing angles. This is in contrast with other viewing angle control elements which produce displays at or close to the original brightness of the image display element in narrow viewing angle mode, whereas in wide viewing angle mode, light is diffused or otherwise modified to achieve wide viewing angles.

Abstract: Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to ruggedized switchable glazings, and/or methods of making the same. The PDLC stack of certain example embodiments includes an outer substrate, a low-E UV blocking coating deposited on an inner surface of the outer substrate, a first PVB or EVA laminate, a first PET layer, a first TCO layer, the PDLC layer, a second TCO layer, a second PET layer, a second PVB or EVA laminate, and an inner substrate. The substrates may be glass substrates. The low-E UV blocking coating may include at least two layers of or including silver and/or may include one or more IR layers. Thus, certain example embodiments may advantageously reduce one or more problems associated with residual haze, color change, flicker, structural changes in the polymer and/or the LC, degradations in state-switching response times, delamination, etc.

Abstract: Certain example embodiments of this invention relate to ruggedized switchable glazings, and/or methods of making the same. The PDLC stack of certain example embodiments includes an outer substrate, a low-E UV blocking coating deposited on an inner surface of the outer substrate, a first PVB or EVA laminate, a first PET layer, a first TCO layer, the PDLC layer, a second TCO layer, a second PET layer, a second PVB or EVA laminate, and an inner substrate. The substrates may be glass substrates. The low-E UV blocking coating may include at least two layers of or including silver and/or may include one or more IR layers. Thus, certain example embodiments may advantageously reduce one or more problems associated with residual haze, color change, flicker, structural changes in the polymer and/or the LC, degradations in state-switching response times, delamination, etc.