An arrangement for supporting a flat panel display wherein an actuating arrangement responsively alters a physical disposition of the supporting arrangement in a manner to avert physical damage to said flat panel display. Preferably, a flat panel display cover on a laptop will "bow" or arch in a direction away from the flat panel display and the actuating arrangement can be embodied, e.g., by a lattice or grid of wiring, or by a bimetallic sheet. Electronic or mechanical actuation is conceivable and the actuating arrangement can be triggered by, e.g., the imposition of a potentially damaging object and/or by closure of the laptop. While a laptop embodiment is broadly contemplated, other applications are possible.