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Researchers at the Mid Sweden University forestry industry research programme, Fibre Science and Communication Network, are developing paper products that can communicate with computers. Prototypes of notice boards and store displays can broadcast sound using digital information embedded in the paper. A user touching, say, a picture of a holiday resort, would automatically hear about it. The developers say the technology has applications ranging from product advertising to tourist information.
“We combine paper with printed graphic codes and electronically conductive ink that is engineered to be sensitive to pressure. Then digital information is embedded in the paper, and when it is touched, the information comes out via printed speakers,” says Mikael Gulliksson, project leader for media technology in the project.
One prototype shows how the technology could be used to market a new travel destination. When a user touches a picture or text, he or she hears the accompanying audio advertising message.
The technology has also been applied in a prototype music display board. Covers of albums are printed on the paper and users can hear a sample of the music by touching the front of an album.
The inventors say the new display technology is inexpensive, combining images and sound in an environmentally friendly way. After use, the displays can be recycled.
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