Turning paper to touchscreens

    A new system will be able to digitize printed text and images, turning the paper into a touchscreen.
    The system will consist of a webcam, projector and special software created by the research team. When the paper documents are placed beneath the machine, motion trackers will react to finger motions and gestures to allow the user to select areas of text or images. The selections will then be digitized automatically.
    The device could be useful for showing detailed information on complex forms, such as those used at bureaucratic offices. The system's technology could also be combined with current gesture systems for a more complete range of manipulation.