Simulation of the dynamics of twisted nematic devices including flow

We have modeled the switching behavior of a twisted nematic cell using the one-dimensional Ericksen–Leslie equations of nematodynamics. We compare the modeling results with experimental data on transmission versus time. Excellent agreement between experiment and model is achieved at all voltages and viewing angles. To achieve this agreement, only two viscosity parameters are required; these are combinations of the Leslie viscosity coefficients, namely, α3−α2 (the rotational viscosity) and α4+α5. A fast and stable adaptive numerical algorithm, based on an effective viscosity parameter, is developed for solving the equations of motion. The viscosity parameters obtained from fitting the flow experiments are in good agreement with those obtained from dynamic light-scattering measurements.