Homeotropic, rub-free liquid-crystal light shutter

Abstract
A liquid-crystal light shutter based upon homeotropic orientation has been fabricated, such that no rubbing is required. The device, which is dark in the voltage-off state and transmitting in the voltage-on state, exhibits contrast ratios in excess of 3000:1, with transmission efficiencies of 70% to 95%. Characterization results of one prototype are reported herein.