Mylar-film-compensated π and parallel-aligned liquid crystal cells for direct-view and projection displays

Abstract

Optical properties of stretched Mylar films [poly(ethylene terephthalate)] were evaluated. Similar birefringence dispersion to liquid crystals over a wide spectral range makes Mylar an attractive phase retardation plate for display applications. Two display modes employing an antiparallel (or π) and a parallel-aligned cell with a Mylar phase compensator were demonstrated. The film-compensated π cell shows an 80:1 black-to-white contrast ratio, 60 Hz frame rate and ±45° viewing angle, and is attractive for direct view display. The film-compensated parallel cell shows an 85:1 black-to-white contrast ratio, 180 Hz frame rate, and ±10° viewing angle, and is suitable for projection display.