Roll-up laptops roll in to UK

Businesses, particularly those with a high number of mobile or home workers, could soon benefit from a roll up monitor developed by a research team at the University of Cambridge.

The scientists have created a series of 'morphing' structures, capable of changing shape, which could be used to as roll-up laptop display screens, keyboards or re-usable packaging.

An example of the technology's potential application would be the ability to make an A5-sized flat screen tubular so that it could then be stored in someone's pocket or briefcase.

The researchers have found a way to create configurable structures without the need for complex parts, simply by using a normal sheet of metal.

Without the need for traditional hinges, locks or latches, production time and costs come down, in addition to portability going up.

The innovation are the results of an ongoing project in the university's Department of Engineering, led by Dr Keith Seffen, with assistance form a team formed by Dr Simon Guest and student Alex Norman.

"They offer substantial shape-changing capabilities whilst preserving structural integrity," said Dr Seffen.

"They are simply made and their operation does not rely upon advanced materials. They afford compact, inexpensive solutions for multifunctional devices, which are required to be lightweight, stiff, but foldable on demand."

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