High-efficiency multistable switchable glazing using smectic A liquid crystals

Presently, nematic polymer dispersed liquid crystals (PDLCs) that are used in switchable glazing technology require constant power to operate and, moreover, exhibit unwanted haze at wide viewing angles. In this paper, a novel switchable glazing technology, based around a bistable electro-optic effect in the Smectic A liquid crystal phase, is described which does not require constant power to operate or exhibit haze. The application of a low-frequency (100 Hz) voltage induces an optically opaque state due to the motion of ionic material whereas the application of a higher frequency AC (1 kHz) voltage induces a haze-free clear state. Multistable (greyscale) operation is possible through the application of intermediate frequencies or voltages; the threshold voltages of the effect were found to range from 36 to 66 V rms. Any voltage-induced state is preserved indefinitely after removal of the voltage leading to low power consumption.