Optimization of the Optical Whiteness Ratio for Flexible Display by Using Taguchi's Dynamic Approach

Abstract

Lighter and thinner flexible displays have become the new standards in the computer industry. The advantages of flexible display include lower power consumption, lighter weight, and thinness. To catch market opportunities, many companies strive to develop new applications for flexible displays. Flexible displays depend on the reflection of ambient light; thus, the contrast ratio should be improved to obtain a good optical whiteness characteristic. Continuous quality improvements of optical whiteness characteristics are the main factors that enhance the market competitiveness of flexible displays. Traditionally, engineers conducted experiments using the trial and error method in the new product development stage. However, this method is unable to provide a viable solution; instead, it wastes time, materials, and labor costs, and delays the market demand schedule. To effectively determine the settings of many different design parameters, the present study applies Taguchi's dynamic approach to find the optimal settings of important control factors, thereby closely meeting optical whiteness targets. An actual case study is used to demonstrate the usefulness of the suggested optimal combination for improving optical whiteness characteristic. The optical whiteness ratio of the third gray pattern has been improved from 0.167 to 0.2019. Furthermore, the case company has effectively shortened the development schedule, regained customer orders, and earned revenues of approximately $900000.