Sony patents fold-up origami gadgetry

No, not that Origami. Sony is taking the term a bit more literally, and working on a technology to allow a device to be folded up to fit in your pocket, but which when unfolded becomes rigid for use. The whole unit, body and screen, would be made from a flexible material and contain conductive rubber bracing struts with some gel of aluminosilicate particles suspended in silicone oil mixed in for good measure. When zapped with a little bit of electricity, the struts harden almost instantly, allowing you to use the gadget in its proper state. The patent goes on to suggest the possibility of using this technology in conjunction with a video game in response to on-screen action. Unfortunately, our magic 8 ball says the signs aren't looking too hot for seeing something like this in action any time soon.

[Via New Scientist]

[English @ Jun 8th 2006 1:07PM]

Now, if only it could fold into a swan...

Pretty cool, though. I wonder if they (Sony) will finally make an mp3 player worth buying with this implemented?

[Al @ Jun 8th 2006 1:08PM]

Sounds like batmans cape in Batman Begins.

[Brian @ Jun 8th 2006 1:12PM]

Those hardening struts were invented several years ago for adaptive computer controlled automobile suspensions. Very cool technology, but very very expensive.

[Jono Cono @ Jun 8th 2006 1:16PM]

Very cool idea, but like you say I'm sure we won't be seeing something like that on the shelf anytime soon.

[Joel @ Jun 8th 2006 1:37PM]

Very compelling design. Looks like a technogeek prohylactic:)

[greatslack @ Jun 8th 2006 2:41PM]

aww no thanks for the referral?

[Chris @ Jun 8th 2006 3:32PM]

This bendable rigid with electric cant possibly be patented by sony... batman had it in the movie just it wasnt a screen it was his cape lol...

[Osiris @ Jun 8th 2006 4:28PM]

Transformers, Robots in disguise!

[Guruboy @ Jun 8th 2006 6:19PM]

What are you talking about Chris? I remember read articles about flexible sreens and such years ago! And the memory cloth idea was around long before Batman...

In this case, Sony is working on a full-fledged electronic out of it.

And who said Sony doesnt innovate?

[Alfred E @ Jun 8th 2006 11:32PM]

I can't wait for this, then i can make digital copies of the back page of all my MAD magazines


What me worry?

[Mark Penix @ Jun 9th 2006 5:47PM]

What happens if you fold it in on itself (knot-like) and turn the device on? Would it explode?