Molecular orientation chevron layer structure

The molecular orientational states of the SSFLCs have been analyzed by polarizing microspectroscopy and optical simulation. The X-ray studies indicated that the chevron layer structure is determined by the bulk properties of the FLC, but the molecular orientation in the smectic layer is strongly influenced by the surface properties. The effect of surface pretilt angle on the molecular orientation and the optical properties of SSFLCs have been studied by the optical simulation based on the molecular orientational models. 

Fig. 5.1.20 Molecular orientational models of SSFLCs with a chevron layer structure.

Another reason for this is the complexity of molecular orientation in FLC devices. FLC devices have layered structures, three surfaces (that is, two substrate surfaces and a chevron interface), tilt angles, spontaneous polarization, etc. These features lead to more complex phenomena such as layer leaning, twisted orientations, low shock stability, layer rotation, etc. 

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