リンテック and Tohoku University jointly developed a light-diffusing film and are seeking to expand adoption of a next-generation sheet for reflective displays. They are testing its ability to display information by reflecting sunlight or artificial light, making displays brighter without a backlight.
リンテック is conducting joint research with Tohoku University to verify the functions and performance of light-diffusing film when incorporated into reflective liquid-crystal displays. With advice from both sides, the parties have optimized the material composition and ultraviolet irradiation method and discussed suitable film designs for each application.
The joint research examines diffusion areas and layer structures suited to applications such as smartwatches and digital signage, and conducts structural analysis to identify the conditions needed to achieve high-brightness effects. The research is also validating design guidelines that may be applicable to projection-screen applications.
Kusama Kentaro (草間 健太郎), head of the company's Optical Functional Materials Research Laboratory, explains that light diffusion is generated by a structure in which low- and high-refractive-index regions alternate within the film. In the past, the company introduced mass-production equipment at its Azuma Plant and raised awareness through demonstration-machine production and academic presentations. Future applications in automotive displays and vision-control films are also envisaged.
The joint research may expand beyond light-diffusing films to studies of applications and functional development for optical products such as adhesives and surface coatings. The current focus is on examining in greater depth methods for forming internal structures and developing optical properties, while collaboration with the university and increased awareness are cited as the background to broader adoption.