Abstract
A multi-functional minute ER device of liquid crystal has been developed and examined. Divided electrodes were utilized in order to control total ER effect of the device. Moreover, the flow rate of the liquid crystal in the device was estimated from optical signal obtained with polarizing LED light and a photo-IC attached to the ER device. The flow rate estimation method developed here was useful in low shear rate region. Apparent ER effect of the device was easily controlled changing the area of the electric field applied. Then, we had developed a total control system using the flow rate estimation and ER effect control mentioned above, and the flow rate was automatically controlled with good accuracy.
