A truck, trailer, or scanner with a flat, open platform without sides or roof for carrying large or oddly-shaped cargo.
Compound word formed from 'flat' (Old English 'flaet' meaning level) and 'bed' (Old English 'bedd' meaning sleeping place or foundation). The term emerged in early 20th century trucking industry to describe vehicles with flat loading surfaces.
Flatbed scanners revolutionized document digitization because they can scan bound books without damaging the spine - something impossible with older feed-through scanners. The flat surface allows delicate manuscripts and artwork to be digitized safely, making them crucial tools in libraries and museums worldwide.
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