Soon, new gen-next washable and foldable e-devices

Researchers have came closer to developing new gen-next washable and foldable e-devices with zero pixel borders, thanks to the development of a electrofluidic imaging film.

The device will require low power to operate since it will charge via sunlight and ambient room light.

The devices using electrofluidic imaging film will be so "tough" and only use wireless connection ports, such that you can leave it in the rain without being damaged, the researchers claimed.

In fact, you'll be able to wash it or drop it without damaging the thin, highly flexible casing and screen, they said in a UC statement.

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati said one challenge in creating foldable e-Paper devices has been the device screen, which is currently made of rigid glass.

However, UC research experimentally verified that a screen of paper-thin plastic, what the researchers refer to as "electrofluidic imaging film" has revolutionised their finding.

The breakthrough is a white, porous film coated with a thin layer of reflective electrodes and spacers that are then subjected to unique and sophisticated fluid mechanics in order to electrically transport the colored ink and clear-oil fluids that comprise the consumer content (text, images, video) of electronic devices.

"This is the first of any type of electrowetting display that can be made as a simple film that you laminate onto a sheet of controlling electronics," UC researcher Matthew Hagedon said.

"Our proof-of-concept breakthrough takes us one step closer to brighter, color-video e-Paper and the Holy Grail of rollable/foldable displays," he said.

Importantly, this paper-thin plastic screen developed at UC is the first among all types of fluidic displays that has no pixel borders.

"Think of this as the green iPad or e-Reader, combining high function and high color without the weight of a heavy battery, readable out in the sunlight, and foldable into your pocket," said researchers.