What Does Clamshell Mean?

In designs, clamshell basically is a type of design which resembles a shell or a clam, having the ability to open in the same way that a shell does. Bookbinders usually assemble clamshell boxes in which precious books or loose documents are preserved so that they can be sheltered from light or dust.

The clamshell form of design is often applied in technology, mainly in portable device like VHS cases, cell phones, laptop computers, etc. The design was initially applied in the year 1982 by laptop manufactures GRID for their Compass model. The interface mechanism is placed within the clamshell, which presents more surface area when the device is open. The interface mechanism is shielded when the clamshell is closed. Other electrical device like the sandwich toasters and the George Foreman Grill also make use of the clamshell device.