JP5142142B2 - Hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism, hybrid liquid crystal flow forming method, and hybrid object moving mechanism using liquid crystal flow - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism, a hybrid liquid crystal flow forming method, and a hybrid object moving mechanism using liquid crystal flow. A liquid crystal refers to a state that has fluidity but is optically anisotropic, exhibits birefringence, has crystal-like properties, or exhibits such a state. When an electric field or magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal, all liquid crystal molecules rotate around the center of gravity, and the axial direction is oriented at an angle unique to the liquid crystal with respect to the direction of the electric field or magnetic field.
The present invention relates to a hybrid object moving mechanism, a hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism, and a hybrid liquid crystal flow forming method using liquid crystal flow utilizing the properties of the liquid crystal.

Conventionally, liquid crystals have been used in information display devices such as liquid crystal displays because their optical properties change as liquid crystal molecules are aligned.
The viscosity of the liquid crystal changes when the orientation direction of the liquid crystal molecules is changed by applying an electric field or a magnetic field. That is, since the liquid crystal also has a property as an electrorheological fluid, bearings, dampers, and the like using this property have been developed.

On the other hand, it is known that liquid crystal flow occurs when liquid crystal molecules are aligned, and a technique for industrially utilizing such liquid crystal flow has also been developed (Patent Document 1).
Patent Document 1 discloses a channel having a pair of opposed wall surfaces, liquid crystal molecule rotating means for rotating liquid crystal molecules in a plane intersecting the wall surface of the channel, and a pair of alignment films provided on the pair of wall surfaces. A liquid crystal flow mechanism comprising: In this liquid crystal flow mechanism, a pair of alignment films provided on a pair of wall surfaces are rubbed in the same direction, and liquid crystal molecules are twisted between the pair of wall surfaces.
For this reason, if the liquid crystal molecules are rotated by the liquid crystal molecule rotating means, a liquid crystal flow in which the flow rate does not become zero can be generated in the flow path. Can be used.

  By the way, although the technique of the said patent document 1 is a technique effective in the point which can generate the liquid crystal flow which can be utilized industrially, in order to raise the industrial utility value of a liquid crystal flow, the flow volume of a liquid crystal flow. Is preferred, and development of a technique for increasing the flow rate of liquid crystal flow is desired.

Japanese Patent No. 3586734

  In view of such circumstances, the present invention can form an industrially usable liquid crystal flow, and can increase the flow rate and momentum of the liquid crystal flow formation mechanism, the hybrid liquid crystal flow formation method, and the liquid crystal flow. An object of the present invention is to provide a hybrid object moving mechanism using the.

The hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism according to the first aspect of the invention includes a flow path, a liquid crystal provided movably along a wall surface of the flow path, and applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal, Liquid crystal molecule rotating means for rotating liquid crystal molecules in a plane intersecting with one wall surface in the flow path, and the liquid crystal molecule rotating means from the direction intersecting with the one wall surface of the flow path A rotating means for applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal , a restraining means provided on one wall surface in the flow path, and a direction in which the rotating means crosses a direction in which an electric field or a magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal. Recovery means for applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal , and the restraining means when an electric field or a magnetic field is applied from the rotating means to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal, Each solution Wherein the molecule is intended to restrain the movement of the liquid crystal molecules located on the one of the near-wall so as to rotate only in one direction, respectively.
A hybrid object moving mechanism according to a second aspect of the present invention includes a fixed member that is fixed in movement, a moving member that is disposed so as to face the fixed member, and is movable relative to the fixed member, An electric field or a magnetic field with respect to a liquid crystal disposed between a moving-side facing surface of the moving member facing the fixed member, a fixed-side facing surface of the fixed member facing the moving member, and liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal In addition, the liquid crystal molecules rotating means for rotating the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal in a plane crossing the moving side facing surface of the moving member or the fixed side facing surface of the fixed member, the liquid crystal molecule rotating means, Rotating means for applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from a direction crossing the moving side facing surface of the moving member or the fixed side facing surface of the fixing member; Or a restraining means provided on the stationary side opposing surface of the fixing member, the direction in which the rotating means intersects the direction in which the application of an electric field or magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal, the electric field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal Or a returning means for applying a magnetic field , and the restraining means rotates each liquid crystal molecule only in one direction when an electric field or magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from the rotating means. As described above, the movement of the liquid crystal molecules located in the vicinity of the moving-side facing surface of the moving member or in the vicinity of the fixed-side facing surface of the fixing member is restricted.
According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided the hybrid object moving mechanism according to the second aspect , wherein the fixing member is an outer member having a hollow space, and the moving member is inserted into the hollow space of the fixing member in the axial direction of the hollow space. And the liquid crystal is disposed between the inner surface of the outer member and the outer surface of the inner member. The surface on which the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal rotate when an electric field or magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal is a surface including the hollow space axis of the inner member.
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the hybrid object moving mechanism according to the second aspect , wherein the moving member is an outer member having a hollow space, and the fixed member is an inner member disposed in the hollow space of the moving member. And the outer member is disposed so as to be movable relative to the inner member along the axial direction of the hollow space, and between the inner surface of the outer member and the outer surface of the inner member. The liquid crystal is disposed on the liquid crystal molecule, and the surface on which the liquid crystal molecule of the liquid crystal rotates when an electric field or magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal molecule of the liquid crystal is a surface including the hollow space axis of the inner member. It is characterized by being.
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a hybrid object moving mechanism comprising: an outer member having a hollow space; an inner shaft disposed in the hollow space of the outer member so as to be rotatable with respect to the outer member; and the outer member. An electric field or a magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal placed between the inner surface of the inner shaft and the outer peripheral surface of the inner shaft and the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal along the direction from the central axis of the inner shaft toward the inner surface of the outer member. In addition, the liquid crystal molecules rotating means for rotating the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal in a plane intersecting the axial direction of the inner axis, the liquid crystal molecule rotating means is the outer peripheral surface of the inner shaft or the inner surface of the outer member in the direction intersecting the rotating means for applying an electric field or magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal, and restraining means provided on the outer or inner surface of the outer member of the inner shaft, the liquid crystal wherein the rotating means of the liquid crystal Against molecules The direction intersecting the direction of applying a field or a magnetic field, and and a returning means for applying an electric field or magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal, said restraining means, said rotating means with respect to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal When an electric field or magnetic field is applied, the liquid crystal molecules located in the vicinity of the outer peripheral surface of the inner shaft or the inner surface of the outer member are constrained so that each liquid crystal molecule rotates only in one direction. It is characterized by.
The hybrid liquid crystal flow forming method according to the sixth aspect of the present invention is arranged such that liquid crystal is arranged in a flow path, and each liquid crystal molecule rotates in only one direction when an electric field or magnetic field is applied in the flow path. Means for constraining the movement of liquid crystal molecules located in the vicinity of one wall surface of the flow path by means, and applying an electric field or a magnetic field along a direction intersecting the one wall surface of the flow path to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal; The rotating means alternately applies an electric field to the liquid crystal by return means for applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from a direction intersecting the direction of applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal. Alternatively, a magnetic field is applied .

According to the first invention, when an electric field or a magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal from the rotating means, each liquid crystal molecule rotates around its center of gravity, so that liquid crystal flow caused by the rotation of the liquid crystal molecule can be generated. Moreover, since the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal are only restrained by the movement of the liquid crystal molecules located near one wall surface of the flow path, the flow rate of the liquid crystal generated in the liquid crystal when the liquid crystal molecules rotate is increased. can do. Further, after the electric field or magnetic field from the rotating means is removed , the speed at which the liquid crystal molecules return to the original state can be controlled by adjusting the electric field or magnetic field applied to the liquid crystal from the return means. Then, since the flow rate and flow direction of the generated liquid crystal flow can be controlled, the liquid crystal flow can be more industrially utilized.
According to the second invention , when an electric field or a magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal from the rotating means, each liquid crystal molecule rotates around its center of gravity, so that liquid crystal flow caused by the rotation of the liquid crystal molecule can be generated, and the moving member Can be moved in the direction of liquid crystal flow with respect to the fixed member. Therefore, since the flow of the liquid crystal can be used for the movement of the member, it can be applied to a transport device using liquid crystal. Moreover, since the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal are only restrained by the movement of the liquid crystal molecules located in the vicinity of the fixed-side facing surface of the fixing member or the moving-side facing surface of the moving member, the liquid crystal molecules are rotated when the liquid crystal molecules rotate. The flow rate of the liquid crystal flow generated therein can be increased, and the moving amount of the moving member can be increased. Further, after the electric field or magnetic field from the rotating means is removed , the speed at which the liquid crystal molecules return to the original state can be controlled by adjusting the electric field or magnetic field applied to the liquid crystal from the return means. Then, since the flow rate and flow direction of the generated liquid crystal flow can be controlled, the moving amount and moving direction of the moving member can be controlled.
According to the third aspect of the invention, when an electric field or magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from the rotating means, the liquid crystal flows along the axial direction of the hollow space of the outer member. The inner member can be moved. Then, it is possible to form a piston having the inner member as a rod and the outer member as a cylinder body.
According to the fourth invention, when an electric field or a magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from the rotating means, the liquid crystal flows along the axial direction of the hollow space of the outer member. The outer member can be moved.
According to the fifth invention , when an electric field or a magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal from the rotating means, each liquid crystal molecule rotates around its center of gravity, so that the liquid crystal caused by the rotation of the liquid crystal molecules around the hollow space axis of the outer member. Flow can be generated. Then, in the hollow space of the outer member, the inner shaft is rotatably provided around the shaft. Therefore, if the inner shaft is fixed, the outer member can be rotated around the central axis of the inner shaft. . Conversely, if the outer member is fixed, the inner shaft can be rotated around its central axis. Therefore, since the flow of the liquid crystal can be used for rotating the member, it can be applied to a motor or a drill using the liquid crystal. Moreover, since the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal are only restrained by the movement of the liquid crystal molecules located near the outer peripheral surface of the inner shaft or the inner surface of the outer member, the liquid crystal molecules generated in the liquid crystal when the liquid crystal molecules rotate. The flow rate of the flow can be increased, and the rotation speed of the inner shaft or the outer member can be increased. Further, after the electric field or magnetic field from the rotating means is removed, the speed at which the liquid crystal molecules return to the original state can be controlled by adjusting the electric field or magnetic field applied to the liquid crystal from the return means. Then, the generated liquid crystal
Since the flow rate and direction of flow can be controlled, the rotational speed and direction of the inner shaft or outer member can be controlled.
According to the sixth invention , when an electric field or a magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal from the rotating means, each liquid crystal molecule rotates around its center of gravity, so that liquid crystal flow caused by the rotation of the liquid crystal molecule can be generated. Moreover, since the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal are only restrained by the movement of the liquid crystal molecules located near one wall surface of the flow path, the flow rate of the liquid crystal flow generated in the liquid crystal when the liquid crystal molecules rotate is increased. be able to. Further, after the electric field or magnetic field from the rotating means is removed , the speed at which the liquid crystal molecules return to the original state can be controlled by adjusting the electric field or magnetic field applied to the liquid crystal from the return means. Then, since the flow rate and flow direction of the generated liquid crystal flow can be controlled, the liquid crystal flow can be more industrially utilized.

Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, before explaining the hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism of the present invention, the principle of liquid crystal flow occurring when an electric field or magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal will be described.
In addition, when an electric field or a magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal, the axial direction of the liquid crystal molecules is aligned at an angle unique to the liquid crystal with respect to the direction of the electric field or the magnetic field. A liquid crystal in which the axial direction of liquid crystal molecules is parallel to the direction of an electric field or magnetic field will be described.
In addition, since the liquid crystal molecules are aligned when an electric field or a magnetic field is applied, only the case where an electric field is applied will be described below.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the movement of the liquid crystal molecules m when an electric field is applied. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of the movement of the liquid crystal molecules m when an electric field is applied to the liquid crystal LC placed on the parallel plate P.
In FIG. 4, when the liquid crystal molecule m rotates, the liquid crystal molecule m moves (translates) along the surface of the parallel plate P. It is described.

As shown in FIG. 3, when an electric field ef is applied to the liquid crystal LC so as to intersect the axial direction of the liquid crystal molecule m, the liquid crystal molecule m has a direction in which the rotation angle decreases (FIG. 3A).
(In the direction of the arrow) until the axis direction coincides with the electric field ef (FIG. 3B). Then, since a velocity gradient is generated around each liquid crystal molecule m, liquid crystal flow is generated (FIG. 3C).
).

In FIG. 4A, reference numeral F denotes an alignment film provided on the parallel plate P. The material of the alignment film F is a polymer material such as polyimide, for example. When a part of the liquid crystal LC is brought into contact with the alignment film F of the parallel plate P, the movement of the liquid crystal molecules m in contact with the alignment film F is restrained (hereinafter referred to as anchoring), and the liquid crystal molecules m in the vicinity of the alignment film F. However, the movement is limited as compared with the liquid crystal molecules m which are separated from the alignment film F.
Then, even if the electric field ef is applied, the liquid crystal molecules m positioned in the vicinity of the parallel plate P cannot rotate until the axial direction thereof coincides with the electric field ef, and the rotation amount becomes small (FIG. 4B).
). In addition, the amount of rotation of the liquid crystal molecules m decreases as it approaches the parallel plate P, and becomes 0 on the parallel plate P (the liquid crystal molecules m in contact with the alignment film F). The formed velocity gradient also becomes smaller as it approaches the parallel plate P (FIG. 4C).
).
Therefore, in the liquid crystal LC, if the movement of a part of the liquid crystal molecules m is anchored by the alignment film F of the parallel plate P, the liquid crystal molecules m having a velocity distribution as shown in FIG. The flow of is generated.

Now, the hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism of the present invention will be described.
FIG. 1 is a schematic explanatory view of a hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism of the present invention, (A) is a YZ sectional view, and (B)
Is a diagram showing the arrangement of liquid crystal molecules when an electric field is applied in the YZ sectional view, and (C) shows the velocity distribution of the liquid crystal generated between the pair of wall surfaces B when the electric field is applied in the YZ sectional view. It is a figure.
In FIG. 1, the X-axis direction is the left-right direction in FIG.

In FIG. 1, a symbol L indicates a flow path in which a liquid crystal LC to be described later flows. The flow path L includes a pair of opposing wall surfaces B and B. The pair of wall surfaces B and B are parallel to each other, and both wall surfaces B are formed as flat surfaces.
Note that the pair of opposing wall surfaces B and B may not be parallel, and the other wall surface B may be inclined with respect to the one wall surface B.
Each wall surface B may not be a flat surface. For example, one wall surface B may be a flat surface and the other wall surface B may be a surface having irregularities, or both wall surfaces B may be surfaces having irregularities.

  A liquid crystal LC is inserted between the pair of wall surfaces B of the flow path L. The liquid crystal LC is, for example, a nematic liquid crystal, a smectic liquid crystal, a cholesteric liquid crystal, a discotic liquid crystal, or the like, but is not particularly limited as long as the liquid crystal molecules rotate when an electric field or a magnetic field is applied.

As shown in FIG. 1, an alignment film F made of a polymer material such as polyimide is provided on one wall surface B (the lower wall surface B in FIG. 1) of the pair of wall surfaces B, B, for example. ing. The surface of the alignment film F is rubbed from right to left in FIG.
For this reason, the liquid crystal molecules m in contact with the alignment film F in the liquid crystal LC are anchored to the alignment film F and aligned in a state in which the axial direction is in the horizontal direction, that is, in the rubbed direction. In addition, the liquid crystal molecules m are arranged such that one end portion (left end portion in FIG. 1) is inclined upward from the alignment film F, that is, one end portion of the liquid crystal molecules m is arranged so as to be separated from the alignment film F ( Hereinafter, it is simply referred to as tilt.
Note that the lower wall surface B does not have to be provided with the alignment film F. If the lower wall surface B is subjected to a rubbing-less process, the liquid crystal molecules m in contact with the wall surface B are tilted. Can be anchored.

On the other hand, since the alignment film F is not provided on the other wall surface B (upper wall surface B in FIG. 1), the liquid crystal molecules m positioned in the vicinity of the other wall surface B are separated from the other wall surfaces B and the liquid crystal molecules m. It exists in a state where it can freely rotate and translate around the center of gravity within the range allowed by intermolecular interactions occurring between them.
Then, the liquid crystal molecules m positioned between the pair of wall surfaces B and B are arranged so that the change in alignment between the adjacent liquid crystal molecules m is minimized, but the liquid crystal molecules m are substantially provided on the lower wall surface B. The alignment film F is arranged by being restrained only by the restraining force of the alignment film F.
Therefore, as shown in FIG. 1 (A), all the liquid crystal molecules m of the liquid crystal LC put between the pair of wall surfaces B, B of the flow path L are in a state in which the axial direction is directed to the rubbing direction. And it arranges in the state which the left end part tilted.

The other wall surface B may be subjected to a weak anchoring process. Even in this case, the liquid crystal molecules m in the vicinity of the other wall surface B are restrained as compared with the case where a normal alignment film is provided or a rubbing-less process is performed. Since the force to do becomes weak, it can be in a state in which the rotation around the center of gravity and the movement along the wall surface B (translational movement) can be performed freely to some extent.
The other wall surface B is in a state in which the liquid crystal molecules m in the vicinity thereof can freely rotate around the center of gravity and move along the wall surface B (translational movement). It is sufficient that the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules m is not constrained. In this case, the liquid crystal molecules m near the other wall surface B are also affected by the alignment film F provided on the one wall surface B. The alignment can be the same as the liquid crystal molecules m in the vicinity.
In particular, if the process of removing the influence of the other wall surface B on the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules m is performed on the other wall surface B, the liquid crystal molecules m in the vicinity of the other wall surface B are more reliably transferred to the one wall surface. The liquid crystal molecules m in the vicinity of B can have the same orientation, and the liquid crystal molecules m in the vicinity of the other wall surface B can freely rotate and move along the wall surface B (translational movement).

Further, as shown in FIG. 1, inside the flow path L, a pair of electrodes E, E are provided on the inner surfaces of the pair of wall surfaces B 1, B, respectively. The pair of electrodes E and E are arranged so that a line connecting them is perpendicular to the pair of wall surfaces B 1 and B 2. The pair of electrodes E and E are connected to a control device D having a power source.
Therefore, when a voltage is applied to the pair of electrodes E, E by the control device D, an electric field ef perpendicular to the pair of wall surfaces B, B can be formed between the pair of wall surfaces B, B (FIG. 1B )).
The pair of electrodes E, E, the alignment film F, and the control device D constitute the liquid crystal molecule rotation means CB. The pair of electrodes E, E correspond to the rotation means in the claims, and the alignment film F is This corresponds to the restraining means in the claims.

Note that the pair of electrodes E and E need not be arranged so that the line connecting them is perpendicular to the pair of wall surfaces B and B, and the liquid crystal LC is generated by the electric field ef formed on the pair of electrodes E and E. The liquid crystal molecules m may be arranged so as to rotate in a plane intersecting one of the wall surfaces B.
A pair of electrodes E, E may be attached to the outer surface of the flow path L. In this case, the electric field ef can be formed between the pair of wall surfaces B and B if the material of the flow path L is a material that can transmit a conductor or an electric field.
Furthermore, when the material of the flow path L is a conductor, if the control device D is directly connected to the flow path L and a voltage is applied to the flow path L by the control device D, an electric field ef is generated between the pair of wall surfaces B and B. Can be generated.
And it cannot be overemphasized that instead of a pair of electrodes E and E, a magnetic field generating member may be provided on a pair of wall surfaces B and B that can form a magnetic field bf between the pair of wall surfaces B and B.

Next, the operation and effect of the hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism of this embodiment will be described.
First, when a voltage is applied between the pair of electrodes E, E by the control device D, an electric field ef in a direction perpendicular to the pair of wall surfaces B, B is generated between the pair of wall surfaces B, B in the flow path L. Then, the liquid crystal molecules m of the liquid crystal LC rotate so that the axial direction thereof is parallel to the electric field ef, and the rotation of the liquid crystal molecules m generates a velocity gradient around the liquid crystal molecules m.

Here, since all the liquid crystal molecules m are aligned with the left end tilted due to the influence of the binding force of the alignment film F provided on the lower wall surface B, all the liquid crystal molecules m Rotates clockwise around the center of gravity. Then, due to the influence of the velocity gradient formed around the liquid crystal molecules m, the liquid crystal molecules m move to the right while rotating. In addition, the liquid crystal molecules m in contact with the alignment film F provided on the lower wall surface B are anchored to the alignment film F, and the movement of the liquid crystal molecules m in the vicinity of the alignment film F is also restricted (FIG. 1 (B)
).
For this reason, a velocity distribution as shown in FIG. That is, rightward liquid crystal flow occurs in the flow path L.

Then, when the application of the voltage between the pair of electrodes E, E is stopped, the liquid crystal molecules m return to the state before the voltage is applied, but at this time, all the liquid crystal molecules m rotate counterclockwise. That is, any liquid crystal molecule m rotates in the direction opposite to that when a voltage is applied between the pair of electrodes E and E around its center of gravity. Therefore, in the flow path L, FIG.
And the velocity distribution in the direction opposite to the y-axis are formed, and the liquid crystal flow in the left direction occurs.
Therefore, when a voltage is instantaneously applied between the pair of electrodes E and E in the flow path L, a liquid crystal flow in the right direction and a liquid crystal flow in the left direction are continuously generated.

  Moreover, since the rotation speed of the liquid crystal molecules m generated when the voltage application is stopped is slower than the rotation speed of the liquid crystal molecules m generated when the voltage is applied, the rotation to the left occurs when the voltage application is stopped. The flow rate of the liquid crystal flow is less than the flow rate of the liquid crystal flow to the right of the liquid crystal molecules m generated when a voltage is applied.

Therefore, when a voltage is instantaneously applied between the pair of electrodes E and E in the flow path L, a liquid crystal flow in the right direction and a liquid crystal flow in the left direction are continuously generated.
Therefore, the flow rate of liquid crystal flow in the right direction (hereinafter referred to as the flow rate during application) during the period from when the voltage is applied until the liquid crystal molecules m return to the state before the voltage is applied (hereinafter referred to as the unit flow period). A rightward flow rate (hereinafter referred to as a positive flow rate) is generated in the flow path L by the difference in the flow rate of liquid crystal flow in the leftward direction (hereinafter referred to as return flow rate).

In addition, the resistance to rotation of the liquid crystal molecules m when a voltage is applied and the force that the liquid crystal molecules m return to the state before the voltage is applied when the voltage application is stopped are all due to the binding force of the alignment film F. To do. In the hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism of this embodiment, since the alignment film F is provided only on one wall surface B, the voltage is higher than when the alignment film F is provided on both the pair of wall surfaces B and B. The clockwise rotation speed of the liquid crystal molecules m when applying is increased. On the other hand, when the voltage application is stopped, the counterclockwise rotation speed of the liquid crystal molecules m becomes slow. Then, the difference between the application flow rate and the return flow rate increases.
Therefore, in the case of the hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism of the present embodiment, the forward flow rate generated during the unit flow period can be increased as compared with the case where the alignment film F is provided on both the pair of wall surfaces B and B. It is.

In addition, if the pulse voltage is applied intermittently between the pair of electrodes E and E by the control device D, the positive flow rate can be generated intermittently. Moreover, the flow rate in the positive direction can be changed by changing the time interval of the pulse voltage applied between the pair of electrodes E, E, that is, the time interval at which the electric field ef is applied.
Also, the forward flow rate can be adjusted by adjusting the strength, direction, application time, applied waveform, etc. of the electric field ef applied to the liquid crystal LC, and if the time interval for applying the electric field ef is shortened, the forward flow rate can be adjusted. Can be generated more continuously.

  In the above example, the case where the liquid crystal molecules m have an axial direction parallel to the direction of the electric field when the electric field is applied has been described. However, when the electric field is applied, the axial direction of the liquid crystal molecules m is the electric field. In the case of a liquid crystal that is perpendicular to the direction, the liquid crystal molecules m may be disposed in the channel L so that the axial direction of the liquid crystal molecules m is slightly inclined with respect to the direction perpendicular to the pair of wall surfaces B and B. . Then, even in a liquid crystal in which the axial direction of the liquid crystal molecules m is perpendicular to the direction of the electric field when an electric field is applied, the liquid crystal molecules m can be rotated in a certain direction when the electric field is applied, If the application of the electric field is stopped, the liquid crystal molecules m can be rotated in the reverse direction.

Furthermore, in the hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism of the present embodiment, an electric field is applied to the liquid crystal molecules m in the flow path L from a direction intersecting the direction of the electric field ef applied from the pair of electrodes E, E to the liquid crystal molecules m. Alternatively, return means for applying a magnetic field may be provided.
In the case where such a return means is provided, the liquid crystal molecules m are applied from the return means if an electric field or a magnetic field is applied from the return means to the liquid crystal molecules m after the voltage application between the pair of electrodes E and E is stopped. Rotate counterclockwise to match the direction of the electric or magnetic field. That is, the force for rotating the liquid crystal molecules m counterclockwise can be increased compared to the case where the liquid crystal molecules m are returned to the state before the voltage or magnetic field is applied only by the binding force of the alignment film F. Then, since the speed at which the liquid crystal molecules m rotate counterclockwise can be increased, the return flow rate generated during the unit flow period can be increased.
Therefore, if the operation of the return means is controlled, the return flow rate can be varied, so that the forward flow rate generated during the unit flow period can be adjusted.
In particular, the speed at which the liquid crystal molecules m rotate counterclockwise can be controlled by adjusting the strength and direction of the electric or magnetic field applied from the return means to the liquid crystal molecules m, the application time, the applied waveform, and the like. Then, the flow rate at the time of return can be adjusted to adjust the flow rate in the forward direction. It can also be generated.

An example of the hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism of this embodiment provided with such returning means is shown in FIG. In FIG. 2A, reference sign CL indicates a coil corresponding to the return means. The coil CL is provided outside the pair of wall surfaces B and B, and is arranged so that the axial direction thereof is substantially orthogonal to the direction of the electric field ef. The coil CL is connected to the control device D, and the timing and current value of the current supplied by the control device D are controlled.
For this reason, if current is passed through the coil CL after the application of the voltage between the pair of electrodes E and E is stopped, a magnetic field bf along the axial direction of the coil CL is formed around the coil CL. The magnetic field bf can be applied to the liquid crystal molecules m in the flow path L from the direction intersecting the direction of the electric field ef. Then, the liquid crystal molecules m can be rotated counterclockwise so that the axial direction thereof coincides with the direction of the magnetic field bf. Therefore, compared with the case where the liquid crystal molecules m are rotated counterclockwise only by the binding force of the alignment film F, the speed at which the liquid crystal molecules m rotate counterclockwise can be increased, and the return flow rate generated during the unit flow period can be reduced. Can be increased.

As shown in FIG. 2B, when the flow path L of the hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism of the present embodiment is a cylindrical flow path, the flow path L is positioned within the coil CL. Then, the magnetic field bf passing through the coil CL can be applied to the liquid crystal molecules m. Then, adjustment of the magnetic field bf applied to the liquid crystal molecules m is facilitated, and the magnetic flux density is increased, which is preferable.
Further, when the liquid crystal LC arranged in the flow path L is a photo-alignment liquid crystal, a laser light source that can irradiate the liquid crystal with laser light can also be employed as the return means.

Next, the hybrid object moving mechanism of the present invention will be described.
The hybrid object moving mechanism of the present invention is an application of the above-described hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism to the movement of an object. Therefore, the contents overlapping with those described in the hybrid liquid crystal flow forming mechanism are briefly described.

First, the hybrid object moving mechanism of the first embodiment will be described.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of the hybrid object moving mechanism of the first embodiment. In the same figure, the code | symbol P has shown a pair of member. The pair of members P 1 and P 2 are parallel to each other, and the opposing wall surfaces of either member P are formed as flat surfaces. Of the pair of members P 1 and P 2, one member P (lower member P in FIG. 5) is fixed, but the other member P (upper member P in FIG. 5) is in relation to one member P. Are relatively movable.

In the pair of members P 1 and P 2, a liquid crystal LC is placed between the lower surface (moving side facing surface) of the upper member P and the upper surface (fixing side facing surface) of the lower member P, and the fixed side An alignment film F (for example, a film formed from a polymer material such as polyimide) is provided only on the opposite surface.
The upper surface of the alignment film F is rubbed from right to left.
Therefore, between the pair of upper and lower members P 1 and P 2, all the liquid crystal molecules m are arranged so that the axial direction thereof is directed in the left-right direction, and the left end portion is inclined upward.

  A pair of electrodes E, E are provided on the fixed side facing surface and the moving side facing surface of the pair of upper and lower members P 1, 2 P, respectively, and a voltage is applied to the pair of electrodes E, E by a control device (not shown). When added, they are arranged so that an electric field ef perpendicular to the fixed side facing surface and the moving side facing surface of the pair of members P 1 and P 2 can be formed.

For this reason, if a voltage is applied to the pair of electrodes E 1 and E to form a vertical electric field ef between the pair of upper and lower members P 1 and P, the liquid crystal LC flows rightward and parallel to the pair of members P 1 and P 2. Occur. Then, while the lower member P is fixed, the upper member P is movable relative to the lower member P, and therefore the lower member P is moved in the direction of the liquid crystal LC flow. (Fig. 5B)
).

  Further, if a pulse voltage is intermittently applied between the pair of electrodes E, E by a control device (not shown), the upper member P can be intermittently moved relative to the lower member P. Moreover, the amount of movement of the upper member P can be changed by changing the time interval of the pulse voltage applied between the pair of electrodes E, that is, the time interval of applying the electric field. Furthermore, the amount of movement of the upper member P can be adjusted by adjusting the strength and direction of the electric field ef, the application time, the applied waveform, and the like. If the time interval for applying the electric field ef is shortened, the upper member P can be adjusted. Can be moved more continuously.

  Note that the pair of opposing members P and P may not be parallel. For example, the moving-side facing surface of the upper member P may be inclined with respect to the fixed-side facing surface of the lower member P. In this case, the upper member P can be moved along the moving-side facing surface. That is, the upper member P can be moved three-dimensionally with respect to the lower member P.

  In the hybrid object moving mechanism of the first embodiment, an electric field is applied to the liquid crystal molecules m in the flow path L from a direction intersecting the direction of the electric field ef applied from the pair of electrodes E and E to the liquid crystal molecules m. Alternatively, return means for applying a magnetic field may be provided (see FIG. 2A). Then, if the operation of the return means is controlled, the moving speed and moving direction of the upper member P can be controlled.

  And if the hybrid object moving mechanism of 1st embodiment is applied, the conveying apparatus using a liquid crystal can be made. Such a transport device or the like can be made very compact and can be driven by a weak electric power, and therefore can be applied to a work machine associated with a micromachine, for example.

Further, as shown in FIG. 6, a pair of members P
, P are composed of a hollow cylindrical outer member A and an inner shaft C disposed in the hollow space of the outer member A, and both are relatively movable. When the liquid crystal LC is filled between the outer member A and the inner shaft C, the alignment film F is provided on either the inner surface of the outer member A or the outer surface of the inner shaft C, and a voltage is applied. A pair of electrodes are provided on the outer member A and the inner shaft C so that an electric field is formed in the radial direction of the outer member A and the inner shaft C. Moreover, the alignment film F is subjected to a rubbing process or the like so that the liquid crystal molecules m rotate in a plane including the axial direction of the hollow space of the outer member A when an electric field is applied from the pair of electrodes. .
Then, when an electric field is applied to the liquid crystal LC from a pair of electrodes, a liquid crystal flow is generated along the axial direction of the hollow space of the outer member A. Therefore, if the movement of the outer member A is fixed, the liquid crystal flow The inner axis C can be moved along the direction. Conversely, if the movement of the inner shaft C is fixed, the outer member A can be moved along the direction of liquid crystal flow.
If such a mechanism is employed, a piston or the like having the inner shaft C as a rod and the outer member A as a cylinder body can be formed.

Next, the hybrid object moving mechanism of the second embodiment will be described.
FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of the hybrid object moving mechanism of the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 7, the inner shaft C is accommodated in the outer member A, and the central axis CC is disposed so as to be coaxial with the central axis CA of the outer member A. Further, the inner shaft C is rotatably mounted around the central axis CC in the outer member A.

A liquid crystal LC is inserted between the inner shaft C and the outer member A, and the alignment film F is formed only on the outer surface of the inner shaft C.
Is provided. The alignment film F provided on the outer surface of the inner shaft C is rubbed around the central axis CC of the inner shaft C (counterclockwise in FIG. 7).
For this reason, between the inner shaft C and the outer member A, all the liquid crystal molecules m are arranged so that the axial direction thereof is tangential to the outer surface of the inner shaft C and one end thereof is inclined upward. .
Although not shown, the outer member A and the inner shaft C are provided with a pair of electrodes so that an electric field is formed in the radial direction of the outer member A and the inner shaft C when a voltage is applied.

Therefore, if an electric field ef in the radial direction is formed between the outer member A and the inner shaft C with the inner shaft C fixed, the liquid crystal LC has a clockwise rotation along the tangential direction of the inner shaft C. Flow occurs. Then, since the outer member A and the inner shaft C are relatively rotatable around the axis, the outer member A can be rotated counterclockwise along the flow direction of the liquid crystal LC (FIG. 7 ( C)).
On the other hand, if the radial electric field ef is formed between the outer member A and the inner shaft C with the outer member A fixed, the liquid crystal LC flows along the tangential direction of the inner surface of the outer member A. Occurs. Then, since the outer member A and the inner shaft C are relatively rotatable around the axis, the inner shaft C can be rotated counterclockwise along the flow direction of the liquid crystal LC.
If the axial direction of all the liquid crystal molecules m is disposed between the inner axis C and the outer member A in a plane orthogonal to the central axis CC, the inner axis C and the outer member A are connected. Although it can be rotated only relatively, if the axial direction of all the liquid crystal molecules m intersects the central axis CC but is arranged in a non-orthogonal plane, the inner axis C and the outer member A Can be relatively moved along the axial direction of the central axis CC while relatively rotating.

  Further, when an electric field ef is applied between the outer member A and the inner shaft C by a control device (not shown), the inner shaft C and the outer member A can be intermittently applied with a rotational force. Moreover, if the time interval at which the electric field ef is applied is changed, the rotational speed of the inner shaft C and the outer member A can be changed. In addition, the amount of rotation of the inner shaft C and the outer member A can be adjusted by adjusting the strength, direction, application time, applied waveform, etc. of the electric field ef, and the time interval for applying the electric field ef can be shortened. For example, the rotational angular velocities of the inner shaft C and the outer member A at an arbitrary time can be made close to constant.

If the hybrid object moving mechanism of the second embodiment is applied, it is possible to make a motor using liquid crystal, and it is also possible to make a cutter in which only the blade rotates about its axis. Such a motor or the like can be made very compact and can be driven by a weak electric power or the like, so that it can be applied to, for example, a micromachine drive device.
In particular, in the hybrid object moving mechanism of the second embodiment, even if the alignment film F is provided only on the outer surface of the inner shaft C or the rubbing-less process is performed only on the outer surface of the inner shaft C, the inner shaft C or the outer member A is rotated. Can be made. That is, since it is not necessary to provide the alignment film F on the inner surface of the outer member A or to perform rubbing-less processing, a very small motor or the like can be formed by adopting the hybrid object moving mechanism of the second embodiment. .
If the alignment film F can be provided on the inner surface of the outer member A or the rubbing-less process can be performed, the alignment film F may be provided only on the inner surface of the outer member A or the rubbing-less process may be performed. Needless to say.

  Also, in any of the hybrid object moving mechanisms of the above embodiments, liquid crystal flow can be generated by weak electric power, so that a sensor that operates by detecting a magnetic field or an electric field generated when a weak current flows, etc. It can also be applied to.

It is a schematic explanatory diagram of the hybrid liquid crystal flow formation mechanism of the present invention, (A) is a YZ cross-sectional view, (B) is a diagram showing the arrangement of liquid crystal molecules when an electric field is applied in the YZ cross-sectional view, (C) is the figure which showed the velocity distribution of the liquid crystal which generate | occur | produces between a pair of wall surfaces B when an electric field is applied in YZ sectional drawing. It is the figure which showed an example of the hybrid liquid crystal flow formation mechanism of this embodiment provided with the return means. It is explanatory drawing of a motion of the liquid crystal molecule m when an electric field is applied. It is explanatory drawing of a motion of the liquid crystal molecule m when an electric field is applied to the liquid crystal LC mounted on the parallel plate P. It is explanatory drawing of the hybrid object moving mechanism of 1st embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the piston which employ | adopted the hybrid object moving mechanism of 1st embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of the hybrid object moving mechanism of 2nd embodiment.

L channel B wall surface F alignment film LC liquid crystal m liquid crystal molecule ef electric field

Claims (6)

A flow path;
A liquid crystal provided movably along the wall surface of the flow path;
A liquid crystal molecule rotating means for applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal to rotate the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal in a plane intersecting one wall surface in the flow path;
The liquid crystal molecule rotating means comprises:
Rotating means for applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from a direction intersecting one wall surface of the flow path;
Restraining means provided on one wall surface of the flow path;
And a return means for applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from a direction intersecting the direction of applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal ,
The restraining means is
When an electric field or magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from the rotating means, the movement of the liquid crystal molecules located near the one wall surface is constrained so that each liquid crystal molecule rotates only in one direction. Hybrid liquid crystal flow formation mechanism characterized by being a thing. A fixed member with fixed movement;
A moving member that is disposed so as to face the fixing member and is movable relative to the fixing member;
A liquid crystal disposed between a moving-side facing surface of the moving member facing the fixed member and a fixed-side facing surface of the fixed member facing the moving member;
Liquid crystal molecule rotating means for applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal to rotate the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal in a plane that intersects the moving side facing surface of the moving member or the fixed side facing surface of the fixing member. And consist of
The liquid crystal molecule rotating means comprises:
Rotating means for applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from a direction intersecting the moving side facing surface of the moving member or the fixed side facing surface of the fixing member;
Restraining means provided on the moving-side facing surface of the moving member or the fixed-side facing surface of the fixing member ;
And a return means for applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from a direction intersecting the direction of applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal ,
The restraining means is
When an electric field or a magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from the rotating means, each liquid crystal molecule is fixed in the vicinity of the moving-side facing surface of the moving member or in the fixing member so as to rotate only in one direction. A hybrid object moving mechanism characterized by restraining the movement of liquid crystal molecules located in the vicinity of a side facing surface. The fixing member is an outer member having a hollow space;
The moving member is an inner member disposed in the hollow space of the fixed member so as to be movable relative to the fixed member along the axial direction of the hollow space;
The liquid crystal is disposed between the inner surface of the outer member and the outer surface of the inner member,
Surface crystal molecules of the liquid crystal is rotated in when applying an electric field or magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal, according to claim 2, characterized in that the plane containing the axis of the hollow space of the inner member Hybrid object moving mechanism. The moving member is an outer member having a hollow space;
The fixed member is an inner member disposed in a hollow space of the moving member;
The outer member is disposed so as to be movable relative to the inner member along the axial direction of the hollow space;
The liquid crystal is disposed between the inner surface of the outer member and the outer surface of the inner member,
Surface crystal molecules of the liquid crystal is rotated in when applying an electric field or magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal, according to claim 2, characterized in that the plane containing the axis of the hollow space of the inner member Hybrid object moving mechanism. An outer member having a hollow space;
An inner shaft rotatably disposed with respect to the outer member in the hollow space of the outer member;
Liquid crystal placed between the inner surface of the outer member and the outer peripheral surface of the inner shaft;
An in-plane crossing the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal with the axial direction of the inner axis by applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal along a direction from the central axis of the inner axis toward the inner surface of the outer member. Liquid crystal molecule rotating means for rotating in
The liquid crystal molecule rotating means comprises:
Rotating means for applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from the direction intersecting the outer peripheral surface of the inner shaft or the inner surface of the outer member;
Restraining means provided on the outer peripheral surface of the inner shaft or the inner surface of the outer member;
And a return means for applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from a direction intersecting the direction of applying an electric field or a magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal ,
The restraining means is
When an electric field or a magnetic field is applied to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal from the rotating means, the liquid crystal molecules are rotated in one direction, respectively, near the outer peripheral surface of the inner shaft or the inner surface of the outer member. A hybrid object moving mechanism characterized by restraining the movement of liquid crystal molecules positioned. Place the liquid crystal in the flow path,
In the flow channel, the movement of the liquid crystal molecules located near one wall surface of the flow channel is restrained by the restraining means so that each liquid crystal molecule rotates only in one direction when an electric field or a magnetic field is applied. ,
Rotating means for applying an electric field or magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal along a direction intersecting one wall surface of the channel, and the rotating means intersects with a direction of applying an electric field or magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal by the direction and return means for applying an electric field or magnetic field to the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystals, <br/> features and to Ruha hybrid liquid crystal flow forming method adding an electric or magnetic field alternately to the liquid crystal.