Intel talked about the Nikiski concept PC at Computex last year. The concept is simple: replace the palm rest and touchpad on a notebook with a transparent strip with integrated touchpad. When open the touchpad area should work just like a glass covered touchpad. Intel also includes palm detection that disables the mouse cursor if it detects that you're resting your hands on the transparent strip. Close the clamshell and the transparent touchpad will act as a capacitive window to your display. With some support in Windows 8 Intel claims you'll be able to do things like view your calendar, read emails, even browse the web through this little window. Both sides of the transparent strip support capacitive touch so you'll still be able to interact with your machine when closed. 

Nikiski is still just a concept PC but it's now functional. Intel owns the patent on the design, but as is normally the case with these concepts it's unclear when we'll see something like it in the market. Make the design thin enough and I definitely see potential though. It'd be nice to still have access to some of your data even when your notebook is closed.