Title: Next generation liquid crystal and reactive mesogen materials for optical components in head-mounted AR/VR devices.Abstract: Liquid crystal (LC) technology plays a pivotal role in advancing AR/VR devices. LCoS light engines with high-resolution and fast-switching capabilities provide exceptional visual quality and seamless transitions, enhancing the immersive experience. Reactive Mesogen-enabled Pancharatnam-Berry Grating (PBG) waveguides improve AR image performance, while LC-based varifocal lens technology addresses the vergence accommodation conflict. Additionally, guest host systems offer solutions for improved occlusion and privacy. This talk explores the remarkable applications of the latest LC material technology in lens components, showcasing its potential and challenges for the next-generation AR/VR devices. Discover how LC technology is driving the evolution of AR/VR experiences.Speaker: Dr. Michael Wittek is an accomplished scientist and business development leader currently serving as the global lead for AR/VR business development in display solutions at Merck KGaA, Germany. With a distinguished academic background, holding a Dr. rer. nat in Physical Chemistry and a diploma in physics from prestigious institutions, including the University of Gottingen, UCSD, UC Berkeley, and the Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry. Dr. Wittek brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. His career at Merck KGaA, Germany, began in 2003, and since then he has significantly contributed to advancements in liquid crystals (LC) technology, leading projects such as LC beyond displays and LC Blue Phase, focused on innovative applications in AR/VR and LC based smart antennas. Dr. Wittek is also dedicated to fostering industry collaboration and knowledge sharing, by his active membership in technical committees for SID, SPIE Photonics West, and IDW. His expertise in customer relations, lead generation, sales, and social media marketing promoting Merck's ongoing success in the electronics sector.

Title: Next generation liquid crystal and reactive mesogen materials for optical components in head-mounted AR/VR devices.Abstract: Liquid crystal (LC) technology plays a pivotal role in advancing AR/VR devices. LCoS light engines with high-resolution and fast-switching capabilities provide exceptional visual quality and seamless transitions, enhancing the immersive experience. Reactive Mesogen-enabled Pancharatnam-Berry Grating (PBG) waveguides improve AR image performance, while LC-based varifocal lens technology addresses the vergence accommodation conflict. Additionally, guest host systems offer solutions for improved occlusion and privacy. This talk explores the remarkable applications of the latest LC material technology in lens components, showcasing its potential and challenges for the next-generation AR/VR devices. Discover how LC technology is driving the evolution of AR/VR experiences.Speaker: Dr. Michael Wittek is an accomplished scientist and business development leader currently serving as the global lead for AR/VR business development in display solutions at Merck KGaA, Germany. With a distinguished academic background, holding a Dr. rer. nat in Physical Chemistry and a diploma in physics from prestigious institutions, including the University of Gottingen, UCSD, UC Berkeley, and the Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry. Dr. Wittek brings a wealth of knowledge to his role. His career at Merck KGaA, Germany, began in 2003, and since then he has significantly contributed to advancements in liquid crystals (LC) technology, leading projects such as LC beyond displays and LC Blue Phase, focused on innovative applications in AR/VR and LC based smart antennas. Dr. Wittek is also dedicated to fostering industry collaboration and knowledge sharing, by his active membership in technical committees for SID, SPIE Photonics West, and IDW. His expertise in customer relations, lead generation, sales, and social media marketing promoting Merck's ongoing success in the electronics sector.