International student showcases laptop design skills

Eunggyu Lee, a BA (Hons) Design for Industry student, created a model of a laptop that dispenses with the need for a screen by incorporating an in-built projector to beam images on to the inside lid of a lightweight carry case. The smart phone, while retaining all of the abilities of modern-day smart mobile phones, would also serve as the laptop’s hard-drive and contains a detachable remote control for use with computer games.

The laptop could also be used to project films, computer games and presentations on to larger wall screens. Users would only need to buy one internet contract for use by the phone and laptop, thus reducing domestic technology bills.

Eunggyu, 27, said: “More and more people own a smart phone, digital television, laptop and desk top computer, which basically incorporates the same technology into three separate products and creates more electronic waste for landfill.

“By using a projector system rather than an inbuilt screen, and by using a smart phone as the computer’s hard-drive, my design is more versatile and can fulfil a range of needs that are currently being performed by several products. The project aims to reduce the amount of digital gadgets that people use in their home.

“The product is lighter and more mobile than other laptops as it contains no screen or operating system inside. The detachable smart phone is the brain of the computer.”

The project was designed as part of Eunggyu’s BA (Hons) Design for Industry degree course, run by the School of Design.

The four-year full-time course is targeted at students aiming to become professional designers of mass-produced products. It has a very strong vocational bias fostered by its close links with industry.

Programme leader and Senior Lecturer Howard Fenwick said: “The skills that Eunggyu has acquired throughout his time on the BA (Hons) Design for Industry programme are demonstrated in the creative way he has actualised his original concept.

“Like all of our students, he has been encouraged to work closely with industry specialists and engage in research that informs the outcome of his project. His concern for the environmental impact of technological waste has inspired and shaped his design solution.”

Eunggyu will showcase his laptop and phone model at New Designers 2010 at the Business Design Centre in London this July.