Computer simulation of the homeotropic to planar transition in cholestericliquid crystals

The transition from the homeotropic to the planar state in cholesteric liqu id crystal displays is investigated through computer simulation. The simula tion reproduces the observed relaxation from the homeotropic state to the l ong pitch transient planar state. The simulation also agrees with the sugge stion that the transition from the transient planar stale to the planar sta te proceeds through a bulk modulation resulting in folding and buckling of cholesteric layers without introduction of defect cores. The model obtained agrees well with earlier experimental observations showing that the proces s includes a tilting of cholesteric helices, and that the surface plays onl y a minor role in the relaxation process.