A new research project unveiled today could mean an end to trying to cast a shadow over cash machine, PDA or laptop displays in an attempt to see them in bright sunlight.
Scientists from the
The two-year project aims to develop new coatings for flat-panel display screens that will be able to sense light levels and adjust the output of the display to improve readability and efficiency.
Specialist custom electronics manufacturers Micro Circuit Engineering and Thin Film Solutions will develop new designs of screen assemblies with novel coatings, and the two universities will collaborate to provide sophisticated usability testing and computer modelling to test the new designs.
The results of the project will enable traditional and emerging display technologies to be more viewable and energy efficient in a wide range of ambient light conditions. As well as better displays for a wide variety of applications, the research team believes that its new technology could also open up other applications in solar cells and photovoltaic devices.
Dr Colin Cartwright of
“Integrating many optical functions, possibly with conflicting mechanical, thermal, electrical and visual requirements is a major technical challenge, so we need rigorous computer modelling of all the variables. This will give us an integrated design tool that can be used for existing and future smart display technologies, and give the
Professor Chris Bailey at
The worldwide market for displays of all kinds is estimated to be more than £20 billion, giving any technological improvement huge sales potential. Manufacturers of cash machines, automotive and marine displays have already expressed interest in the outcome of this project.
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