Remote optical detection of bending deformations by means of cholesteric paint

Abstract

Remote optical detection of bending deformations is suggested and realised by means of using a combination of patterned silicone elastomers painted with thin viscoelastic cholesteric layer. The presence of highly viscous cholesteric liquid crystal is crucial as it results in a long relaxation time of deformation and allows to detect it. Detection of bending deformation is also analysed theoretically for the suggested geometry and proved to be experimentally an advantageous method in remote detection of bending.

Keywords:

• deformation
• bending
• remote detection
• cholesteric
• colour