Electro-Optic Beam Steering with Nematicons

We analyze a novel geometry expressly designed to maximize the bias-controlled deflection of self-confined light beams in nematic liquid crystals (NLC). We use a self-confined beam and a dielectric interface defined by external voltages, ranging from total internal reflection (TIR) to refraction depending on the applied bias. The optimization of the deflection angle is achieved by using comb electrodes in a planar cell employing planarly oriented NLC molecules. We predict a maximum deflection of 70 degrees with the standard mixture E7.