A variational problem for nematic liquid crystals with variable degree of orientation

Abstract: "A version of Ericksen's order parameter theory of liquid crystals is studied in the case of a cylindrical container with anchoring on the curved surface only. The solutions are determined rather explicitly and the equilibrium orientation field is shown to vary between that of the Frank solution (possessing an axial disclination) and that of the disclination-free Cladis-Kleman solution as a scalar parameter in the free energy varies from 0 to [infinity]."