This study proposes a hybrid structure for a one-dimensional (1D) photonic crystal (PC) comprising a tristable cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) as the defect layer. The CLC exhibits three optically stable states: the Grandjean planar (P), focal conic (FC), and uniform lying helix (ULH) configurations. Specifically, the reflection band of the CLC is set within the photonic bandgap (PBG) of the 1...

The performance of a commercially available liquid crystal TV display was characterized in terms of its modulation depth. Measurements of screen transmittance and modulation depth, as a function of signal level, showed that the primary limitations of the device as a spatial light modulator were due to the nature of the video scan format and the display drive electronics. The resolution of the d...

A new method of generating color in liquid crystal displays using birefringent filters is shown. This method has the benefit of high light transmission and color saturation compared to traditional spatial or temporal multiplexing methods, which include highly absorptive color filters. We discuss the design and optimization of a double-layer su-pertwisted nematic color display based on polarizat...

A MEMS device consisting of an array of movable mirrors to be used in ultrafast pulse shaping was fabricated. The device operates by changing the free space path length of individual spectral components of the optical pulse. We aim to extend the operation range to lower wavelengths than current liquid-crystal devices. 400 nm piston motion was demonstrated at around the desired operation voltage...

We propose a nematic liquid crystal ͑LC͒ optical phase plate, with a large continuous in-plane gradient that is variable, and its application to a beam steering device with high efficiency. The device is a vertically aligned, continuous phase, optical phased array ͑V-COPA͒ that uses a negative dielectric anisotropy LC material. High steering efficiency of over 95% is demonstrated by modeling the LC...

The potential of the extremely inexpensive Radio Shack liquid-crystal television (LCTV) as a two-dimensional spatial light modulator has been investigated. The LCTV modulates the transmission of coherent or incoherent light and can either be electronically addressed through a microcomputer or optically addressed with a TV camera. We have measured the transmission characteristics of the device, ...

A label-free biosensor device based on registration of photonic crystal surface waves is described. Angular interrogation of the optical surface wave resonance is used to detect changes in the thickness of an adsorbed layer, while an additional simultaneous detection of the critical angle of total internal reflection provides independent data of the liquid refractive index. The abilities of the...