Most notably used for computer screens and televisions, LCDs (liquid crystal displays) are a widely used technology. Providing both an historical and business-minded context, this extensive resource describes the unique scientific and engineering techniques used to create LCDs. 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. Additionally, the book illustrates how mathematics, physics, and chemistry are put to practical use in the LCDs we use everyday. Everyone from science students to engineers and product designers will find this engaging work valuable.

ROBERT HSIN CHEN, PhD, is an adjunct professor at National Taiwan University and Tsinghua and Jiaotong Universities in Taiwan. He is a former senior vice president at Chimei Optoelectronics, former director at Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, and former vice president at Acer Computer Corporation. He is a member of numerous scientific organizations as well as The State Bar of California, and is a registered patent attorney. Dr. Chen is the author of two books on computers and LCDs and has written many articles in international scientific journals and intellectual property journals.

Series Editor's Foreword by Anthony C. Lowe.

Preface.

Acknowledgments.

About the Author.

1 Double Refraction.

2 Electromagnetism.

3 Light in Matter.

4 The Polarization of an Electromagnetic Wave.

5 Liquid Crystals.

6 Thermodynamics for Liquid Crystals.

7 The Calculus of Variations.

8 The Mean Field.

9 Maier-Saupe Theory.

10 Phenomenological Theory.

11 Static Continuum Theory.

12 Dynamic Continuum Theory.

13 The First Liquid Crystal Display.

14 Liquid Crystal Display Chemistry.

15 The Twisted Nematic.

16 Engineering the Liquid Crystal.

17 The Active Matrix.

18 New Screens.

19 The Transistor and Integrated Circuit.

20 A Transistor for the Active Matrix.

21 Semiconductor Fabrication.

22 Enhancing the Image.

23 The Wider View.

24 Liquid Crystal Television.

25 Glass, Panels, and Modules.

26 The Global LCD Business.

27 New Technologies and Products.

Index.