SBIR-STTR Award

An electronically controlled Variable Transmittance Visor (VTV) will permit a pilot to use a Helmet Mounted Display (HMD) system at maximum effectiveness in all lighting conditions without having to add or remove fixed-tint visors. This project will investigate the material and process advancements necessary to adapt AlphaMicron's patented VALiDT guest-host liquid crystal technology and its patented thermoforming system to the fabrication of a large area, double-curved liquid crystal device employing flexible plastic substrates. A key issue will be the development of a transparent conductive material which is compatible with the significant deformations necessary to successfully thermoform a liquid crystal device to conform to the Air Force's HGU-55/P visor.

There is interest in developing an electronically controllable variable transmittance for fixed wing visor applications. Guest-host liquid crystal technology developed by AlphaMicron, namely e-Tint, has demonstrated the ability to meet the optical requirements for this application. However, implementation on large area, complex curve visors has not been attempted. AlphaMicron proposes to investigate the use of its e-Tint technology for variable transmittance visor application. The program will study the relevant parameters associated with fabrication of a doubly curved liquid crystal device using plastic substrates.

Benefit:
The program will identify the relevant parameters and potential limitations associated with implementation of guest-host liquid crystal systems for large area, complex curve eyewear including visors. Successful program will overcome issues associated with visibility of image in bright lighting conditions and will serve to enhance the performance of a pilot. Commercial applications for this development include fixed and rotary wing pilots as well as consumer motorcycle riders.