An unprecedented look into the basic physics, chemistry, andtechnology behind the LCD
Most notably used for computer screens, televisions, and mobilephones, LCDs (liquid crystal displays) are a pervasive andincreasingly indispensable part of our lives. Providing both anhistorical and a business-minded context, this extensive resourcedescribes the unique scientific and engineering techniques used tocreate these beautiful, clever, and eminently useful devices.
In this book, the history of the science and technology behindthe LCD is described in a prelude to the development of the device,presenting a rational development theme and pinpointinginnovations. The book begins with Maxwell's theory ofelectromagnetism, and the ultimately profound realization thatlight is an electromagnetic wave and an electromagnetic wave islight.
The power of mathematical physics thus was brought to bear uponthe study of light, and particularly the polarization of light bymaterial bodies, including liquid crystals. After a briefhistorical description of polarization, a physical interpretationprovides substance to the mathematical concepts. Subsequentchapters cover:
* Thermodynamics for liquid crystals
* The Maier-Saupe mean field, phenomenological, static continuum,and dynamic continuum theories
* The transistor and integrated circuit
* Glass, panels, and modules
* The calculus of variations
* The active matrix
* Semiconductor fabrication
* The global LCD business
Additionally, the book illustrates how mathematics, physics, andchemistry are put to practical use in the LCDs we use every day. Bydescribing the science from an historical perspective and inpractical terms in the context of a device very familiar toreaders, the book presents an engaging and unique view of thetechnology for everyone from science students to engineers, productdesigners, and indeed anyone curious about LCDs.
Series Editor: Anthony C. Lowe, The Lambent Consultancy,Braishfield, UK
The Society for Information Display (SID) is an internationalsociety, which has the aim of encouraging the development of allaspects of the field of information display. Complementary to theaims of the society, the Wiley-SID series is intended to explainthe latest developments in information display technology at aprofessional level. The broad scope of the series addresses allfacets of information displays from technical aspects throughsystems and prototypes to standards and ergonomics.