E-ink is pretty common now in reading devices (such as the Sony Reader or Amazon's Kindle), but apparently that is just the tip of the iceberg. HP is taking the concept one step further with offering e-ink by the roll with their new product, eSkins.
ESkins are made by the massive roll in wide range of Pantone colors, and allows any dull, boring static space to suddenly become a portal of information or entertainment. For example, the back lid of a laptop could be used to display information or allow for reading while the main display is shut, saving power. Since eSkins are transparent until active, they could even be used for such things as automotive heads up display or ingenious sun shades in high end automobiles.
The material is flexible and, being mass produced friendly, can be made cheaper than standard e-ink displays. Ultra-thin circuitry is infused in the material for control, and as in other displays of this type they are activated by passing a current through the selected area.
If the price comes low enough in time we may find eSkins in a lot of unusual (for now) places, and the possibilities are endless. No word yet how durable eSkin is, but I would expect a protective cover of some type will be needed in extreme conditions. But wouldn't it be great if it could survive the wash? Coming to you soon, electronic billboards on the backs of your favorite sponsored athlete. Priceless.
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How Does E-Ink Work?
According to the manufacturer, "The principal components of electronic ink are millions of tiny microcapsules, about the diameter of a human hair. In one incarnation, each microcapsule contains positively charged white particles and negatively charged black particles suspended in a clear fluid. When a negative electric field is applied, the white particles move to the top of the microcapsule to become visible to the reader. This makes the surface appear white at that location. At the same time, an opposite electric field pulls the black particles to the bottom of the microcapsules where they are hidden. By reversing this process, the black particles appear at the top of the capsule, which now makes the surface appear dark at that location."
source: wikipedia