The design could be employed at numerous events

Now academics from Dundee hope to make the design commercially viable and end the misery suffered by sporting spectators around the world.

In February 2000 students at Dundee's lightweight structures unit (LSU) began investigating the weight-bearing properties of the canopy structures.

They compared their practical results with computer models developed in Munich before progressing to full-scale working models of the canopy.

Their work will be put to the test on Tuesday when their canopy will be demonstrated at the university's tennis courts at Belmont Hall.

During the design stage both teams worked within the requirements of the Lawn Tennis Association and UK Athletics.

Safer structure

Studies of existing canopies found that they could only be deployed from the ground using heavy lifting equipment.

The students attempted to design a lighter, safer structure, which also has the benefit of taking up less space court or track-side when not in use.

They are now confident that they have come up with a deployable roof system which will protect sports people on tennis courts and athletic fields.

Neil Burford, co-founder of Dundee's LSU, said: "The workshop has been a great success and we're now working to make the canopy commercially viable."