Described herein are the materials, mechanisms and procedures for optimizing
various performance parameters of HPDLC optical devices in order to meet differing
performance requirements. These optimization tailoring techniques include control
and independent optimization of switchable HPDLC optical devices to meet the demanding
requirements of anticipated applications for, inter alia, the telecommunications
and display industries. These techniques include optimization of diffraction efficiency,
i.e., index modulation, polarization dependence control, haze, cosmetic quality,
control of response and relaxation time, voltage driving for on and off switching,
and material uniformity. This control and independent optimization tailors properties
of switchable HPDLC optical devices according to the specific requirements of the
application of the switchable HPDLC optical device. The invention disclosed herein
retains the desirable attributes of the multi-functional acrylate system for forming
HPDLC optical devices, but adds new materials to the acrylate system and/or new
process control to the recording to optimize performance parameters as may be needed
for specific applications. This results in high optical quality switchable holograms
with good diffraction efficiency and low, stable switching voltage.