To work upon the limitations of touchscreen and similar interface designs, scientists from New York University have developed Inexpensive Multi-Touch Pressure Acquisition Devices (IMPAD), a thin layered pressure-sensitive pad that measures electrical resistance when some kind pressure is applied on it, creating images of objects in its contact.
Making and working
The pads consist of two plastic sheets, with a layer of force-sensitive resistor ink, it measures about 8 by 10 inches with electrodes layered parallel at an interval of an inch each. The electrode layers cross each other, forming intersection points, like microscopic bumps, which work as pressure sensors and on pressure/touch in the inked area conduct electricity – with the pressure sensitive pad knowing how hard the user’s pressing, and works accordingly. The prototype pad is coming to the Computer Human Interaction Conference in Boston next week, so you get some real exhibition for the thing there.
Finding way in future electronics
In the experimental stage now, researchers claim the technology is sensitive enough to use in virtual paintings, sculptures and musical instrument. The pads cans also be used for a simulated mouse to perform all drag and click functions. Given the claims and owing to the thinness and the scale it can be starched to, the pads could find their way into the portable electronics, tables, and walls and just about anything in the near future. Don’t take that word yet, as commercial future of the technology is far from real. Follow the link for an early video demonstration.
