Importance

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Abstract

A drive system for a matrix cross point addressing system comprises a first substrate having a transparent first linear electrode array thereon. A second substrate having a second linear electrode array thereon, oriented transverse of the first linear electrode array defines therewith a matrix of cross-points. An array of insulating ribs on the second linear electrode array defines an array of channels and an ionizable gas medium fills the array of channels, each channel of the array being aligned with a transparent electrode of the first linear electrode array, respectively. A layer of electric field responsive material, such as a liquid crystal, is sandwiched between the transparent first linear electrode array and a dielectric layer. First circuit means applies a first pulse operating voltage to the first linear electrode array and second circuit means for applying second pulse operating voltage to said second linear electrode array so that the conjoint voltages at selected matrix cross-points (1) causes a discharge in the gas therebetween and forms a charge on the dielectric layer and change the state properties of said electric field responsive material, and (2) remove said charge to cause said material to revert to its initial state, the conjoint voltage applied to the electrodes at a selected site is varied to vary the size charge at selected discharge sites and vary the area of said electric field responsive material at said site which is effected by the charge stored on said dielectric layer.

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First Claim