Liquid Crystal Displays / Wiley Series in Display Technology (PDF)

An unprecedented look into the basic physics, chemistry, and
technology behind the LCD

Most notably used for computer screens, televisions, and mobile
phones, LCDs (liquid crystal displays) are a pervasive and
increasingly indispensable part of our lives. Providing both an
historical and a business-minded context, this extensive resource
describes the unique scientific and engineering techniques used to
create these beautiful, clever, and eminently useful devices.

In this book, the history of the science and technology behind
the LCD is described in a prelude to the development of the device,
presenting a rational development theme and pinpointing
innovations. The book begins with Maxwell's theory of
electromagnetism, and the ultimately profound realization that
light is an electromagnetic wave and an electromagnetic wave is
light.

The power of mathematical physics thus was brought to bear upon
the study of light, and particularly the polarization of light by
material bodies, including liquid crystals. After a brief
historical description of polarization, a physical interpretation
provides substance to the mathematical concepts. Subsequent
chapters 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, and
chemistry are put to practical use in the LCDs we use every day. By
describing the science from an historical perspective and in
practical terms in the context of a device very familiar to
readers, the book presents an engaging and unique view of the
technology for everyone from science students to engineers, product
designers, and indeed anyone curious about LCDs.

Series Editor: Anthony C. Lowe, The Lambent Consultancy,
Braishfield, UK

The Society for Information Display (SID) is an international
society, which has the aim of encouraging the development of all
aspects of the field of information display. Complementary to the
aims of the society, the Wiley-SID series is intended to explain
the latest developments in information display technology at a
professional level. The broad scope of the series addresses all
facets of information displays from technical aspects through
systems and prototypes to standards and ergonomics.