WO2002041242A2

WO2002041242A2 - Electronic writing system

Info

Publication number: WO2002041242A2
Application number: PCT/IB2001/002717
Authority: WO
Inventors: Cornelis Martens; David Block; Ulf Ottoson; Örjan STRAND
Original assignee: Esselte N.V.
Priority date: 2000-11-15
Filing date: 2001-11-15
Publication date: 2002-05-23
Also published as: GB0027894D0; AU2002222422A1; WO2002041242A3

Abstract

A writing tip for a pen, the pen being adapted to interface with a patterned writing surface and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surface, wherein the tip is for removably attaching to the pen.

Description

ELECTRONIC WRITING SYSTEM

The present invention relates to improved techniques associated with a pen having an optical means for interfacing with a patterned writing surface, wherein the location of the pen on the writing surface can be determined.

Anoto have developed a pen which interacts with a specially adapted writing surface such that information written or drawn using the pen can be electronically stored and transmitted.

The specially adapted writing paper is provided with a large number of small dots in a known pattern on the surface of, for example, a sheet of paper. The Anoto pen is fitted with a digital camera, and as the user writes with the pen the digital camera electronically traces the movement of the pen over the surface of the writing paper. The thus traced movement of the pen is stored electronically in a memory of the pen. In addition, the movement of the pen is transmitted, by a wireless link such as a Bluetooth link, to a device such as a mobile phone, personal data assistant (PDA) or personal computer (PC) . The information written on the paper may then be seen on a computer screen or transmitted to various locations electronically via the world wide web. Writing or drawings on the specially adapted paper may therefore be re-produced in many different environments .

Thus the functionality of the Anoto pen makes it possible to send whatever is written or drawn directly on paper to a nearby personal computer, or via the internet to any computer, mobile phone or information bank in the world.

A pen such as the Anoto pen enables information about the content of what is written or drawn on a sheet of patterned paper to be detected and electronically transmitted.

It is one aim of the present invention to provide an improved technique for determining information about that which is written or drawn, other than just the pure information content on the paper. By pure information content, it is meant the text or drawings shapes on the paper.

It is a further aim of the present invention to provide an improved technique for using a pen such as the Anoto pen in environments other than on writing paper or in a writing pad.

It is a still further aim of the present invention to provide techniques to enable a pen such as the Anoto pen to be used with various different types of writing surface.

It is additionally an aim of the present invention to provide adaptations to certain existing presentation products to provide compatibility with a device such as the Anoto pen.

In one aspect of the present invention there is provided a writing tip for a pen, the pen being adapted to interface with a patterned writing surface and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surface, wherein the tip is for removably attaching to the pen.

The tip is preferably adapted to interface with the pen such that the pen receives information identifying the tip. The tip may be provided with means for engaging the pen, said means including means for identifying the tip.

The means for identifying the tip may be a physical engaging means between the tip and the pen. The means for identifying the tip may be an electronic means between the tip and the pen. The means for identifying the tip may be an optical means between the tip and the pen.

The tip may be provided with a plurality of said means for identifying, corresponding to the plurality of different types of tip available.

The tip may be an ink tip such as a biro or a ballpoint tip, may be a felt tip or may be a pencil, and the pen may further receive information identifying the type of tip.

The tip may be a coloured tip, and the pen may receive information identifying the colour of the tip.

The pen may be adapted to transmit the detected movement of the pen relative to the patterned surface. The pen may be adapted to additionally transmit information identifying the tip. Such information may include the type of tip or the colour of the tip.

Such transmission may be via a wireless link. The wireless link may be a Bluetooth link. The wireless link may be to a local device such as a mobile telephone, personal data assistant, or personal computer. The local device may be connected to further devices by wireless or fixed links. The local device may be connected to further devices by a local area network or by the internet . In another aspect the present invention provides a patterned writing surface for a pen, the pen being adapted to interface with the patterned writing surface and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surface, wherein the patterned writing surface is permanently provided on an erasable surface.

The ink of the pen is preferably erasable from the surface.

The pen may be adapted to transmit the detected movement of the pen relative to the patterned surface.

Such transmission may be via a wireless link. The wireless link may be a Bluetooth link. The wireless link may be to a local device such as a mobile telephone, personal data assistant, or personal computer. The local device may be connected to further devices by wireless or fixed links. The local device may be connected to further devices by a local area network or by the internet .

The patterned writing surface is preferably provided with a reserved area for indicating a special operation, wherein if the pen is used in the reserved area a special operation is detected. A special operation may be identified responsive to transmission by the pen of the use of the pen in the reserved area.

The reserved area may indicate an erasure operation, wherein if the surface is erased, the pen is used in the reserved area. The erased surface is preferably electronically stored and/or transmitted. The erasure operation may be transmitted by the pen responsive to use in the reserved area. The reserved area may indicate a copy operation, wherein if the information on the surface is to be copied, the pen is used in the reserved area. The copied surface is preferably electronically stored and/or transmitted. The copy operation may be transmitted by the pen responsive to use in the reserved area. The copied surface may be printed on a printer. The printer may be a label printer wirelessly connected to the pen.

The reserved area may indicate a send operation, wherein if the information on the surface is to be sent, the pen is used in the reserved area. The send operation may be transmitted by the pen responsive to use in the reserved area. A further reserved area may be provided, wherein in use a destination is entered using the pen in the further reserved area prior to the pen being used in the reserved area. The surface is preferably electronically stored and sent. The further information may be an electronic address or a number. The electronic address may be an internet address .

In this aspect the present invention also provided a method of notifying erasure of a patterned writing surface for a pen, the pen being adapted to interface with the patterned writing surface and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surface, wherein the patterned writing surface is permanently provided on an erasable surface, the method comprising providing the writing surface with a reserved area wherein if the surface is erased, the pen is used in the reserved area. In a further aspect of the present invention there is provided a plurality of patterned writing surfaces for a pen, each patterned surface being distinct, the pen being adapted to interface with the patterned writing surfaces and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surfaces, wherein the identity of the patterned writing surface being used is detected by the optical means by the distinct pattern of that surface.

Each patterned surface may be a sheet of a flip chart pad. The optical means thereby detects the sheet number of the flip chart pad being used.

The pen may be adapted to transmit the detected movement of the pen relative to the patterned surface. The pen may be further adapted to transmit the sheet number of the flip chart pad being used.

Such transmission may be via a wireless link. The wireless link may be a Bluetooth link. The wireless link may be to a local device such as a mobile telephone, personal data assistant, or personal computer. The local device may be connected to further devices by wireless or fixed links. The local device may be connected to further devices by a local area network or by the internet . The patterned writing surface is preferably provided with a reserved area for indicating a special operation, wherein if the pen is used in the reserved area a special operation is detected. A special operation may be identified responsive to transmission by the pen of the use of the pen in the reserved area.

The reserved area may indicate a copy operation, wherein if the information on the surface is to be copied, the pen is used in the reserved area. The copied surface is preferably electronically stored and/or transmitted. The copy operation may be transmitted by the pen responsive to use in the reserved area. The copied surface may be printed on a printer. The printer may be a label printer wirelessly connected to the pen. The reserved area may indicate a send operation, wherein if the information on the surface is to be sent, the pen is used in the reserved area. The send operation may be transmitted by the pen responsive to use in the reserved area. A further reserved area may be provided, wherein in use a destination is entered using the pen in the further reserved area prior to the pen being used in the reserved area. The surface is preferably electronically stored and sent. The further information may be an electronic address or a number. The electronic address may be an internet address . In this aspect the present invention also provided a method for identifying the one of a plurality of patterned writing surfaces, each patterned surface being distinct and being for use with a pen being adapted to interface with the patterned writing surfaces and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surfaces, wherein the identity of the patterned writing surface being used is detected by the optical means by the distinct pattern of that surface. Each patterned surface may be a sheet of a flip chart pad. The optical means thereby detects the sheet number of the flip chart pad being used.

In a still further aspect the present invention provides a patterned writing surface for a pen, the pen being adapted to interface with the patterned writing surface and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surface, wherein the writing surface may be divided, means being provided for the pen to indicate a division of the writing surface.

The means may comprise a reserved area on the writing surface, wherein use of the pen in the reserved area indicates an intention to divide the paper. Preferably, following the use of the pen in such reserved area, the location of the divide is indicated by drawing a line along the proposed division.

The use of the pen in the reserved area is preferably detected by the optical means. The location of the divide is preferably detected by the optical means . The means may comprise a reserved symbol, the use of. which on the writing surface indicates an intention to divide the paper. Preferably, following the use of such reserved symbol, the location of the divide is indicated by drawing a line along the proposed division. The use of the pen in the reserved area is preferably detected by the optical means. The location of the divide is preferably detected by the optical means. There may be provided a plurality of patterned writing surfaces, each patterned surface being distinct, the identity of the patterned writing surface being used being preferably detected by the optical means by the distinct pattern of that surface .

The identity of the patterned writing surface being divided is preferably detected by the optical means by the distinct pattern of that surface.

Such transmission may be via a wireless link. The wireless link may be a Bluetooth link. The wireless link may be to a local device such as a mobile telephone, personal data assistant, or personal computer. The local device may be connected to further devices by wireless or fixed links. The local device may be connected to further devices by a local area network or by the internet.

The patterned writing surface is preferably provided with a reserved area for indicating a special operation, wherein if the pen is used in the_' reserved area a special operation is detected. A special operation may be identified responsive to transmission by the pen of the use of the pen in the reserved area.

The reserved area may indicate an erasure operation, wherein if the surface is erased, the pen is used in the reserved area. The erased surface is preferably electronically stored and/or transmitted. The erasure operation may be transmitted by the pen responsive to use in the reserved area.

The reserved area may indicate a copy operation, wherein if the information on the surface is to be copied, the pen is used in the reserved area. The copied surface is preferably electronically stored and/or transmitted. The copy operation may be transmitted by the pen responsive to use in the reserved area. The copied surface may be printed on a printer. The printer may be a label printer wirelessly connected to the pen.

The reserved area may indicate a send operation, wherein if the information on the surface is to be sent, the pen is used in the reserved area. The send operation may be transmitted by the pen responsive to use in the reserved area. A further reserved area may be provided, wherein in use a destination is entered using the pen in the further reserved area prior to the pen being used in the reserved area. The surface is preferably electronically stored and sent. The further information may be an electronic address or a number. The electronic address may be an internet address.

In this aspect the present invention also provides a method for providing indication of division of a patterned writing surface, for use with a pen being adapted to interface with the patterned writing surface and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surface, means being provided for the pen to indicate a division of the writing surface. The means may comprise a reserved area on the writing surface, wherein use of the pen in the reserved area indicates an intention to divide the paper. Preferably, following the use of the pen in such reserved area, the location of the divide is indicated by drawing a line along the proposed division. The means may comprise a reserved symbol, the use of which on the writing surface indicates an intention to divide the paper. Preferably, following the use of such reserved symbol, the location of the divide is indicated by drawing a line along the proposed division.

For a better understanding of the present invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, reference will now be made by way of example to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 illustrates the main functional elements of an Anoto pen; Figure 2 illustrates the principle of a patterned writing surface for use with an Anoto pen.

Figure 3 illustrates the principle of a removable writing tip in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 4 further illustrates the principle of a removable writing tip in accordance with an aspect of the present invention;

Figure 5 illustrates the principle of a patterned writing surface in accordance with an aspect of the present invention suitable for use with an Anoto pen; Figures 6(a) and 6(b) illustrate the principle of a patterned writing surface in accordance with an aspect of the present invention suitable for use with an Anoto pen;

Figure 7 illustrates the principle of a patterned writing surface in accordance with an aspect of the present invention suitable for use with an Anoto pen;

Figure 8 illustrates an internet application of aspects of the present invention; and Figure 9 illustrates a local application of aspects of the present invention.

The present invention is described herein with reference to a specific embodiment, which utilises the Anoto pen. However the invention is not limited in its applicability solely to an Anoto pen. The invention may also be more generally applicable for use with other devices having the essential characteristics of the Anoto pen required in order to implement the present invention as discussed hereinbelow. Although the Anoto pen is consistently referred to herein, it will be understood that this is only by way of example and the invention is not limited to such a pen.

By way of background and to understand the embodiments of the present invention described herein, the principle of operation of the Anoto pen is described hereinafter.

The Anoto pen is shown in Figure 1, and its main functional elements identified. Together with Anoto patterned paper, the Anoto pen enables anything that is drawn or written to be electronically stored and/or transmitted.

The main functional elements of the Anoto pen, generally designated by reference numeral 2 are: a digital camera 4; a processor 6, preferably an image-processing unit; a memory 8; a transceiver 10, preferably a Bluetooth radio transceiver; and a battery 12. The pen 2 also contains an ink cartridge 14 supplying ink to a stylus, nib, ball-point or other likewise writing tip 16. The Anoto pen 2 is used in the same way as an ordinary ballpoint pen. However, it additionally enables the information being drawn or written to be electronically stored and transmitted. The pen is activated by removing the cap (not shown) that normally covers the nib or stylus as with a normal pen. The pen is deactivated, or switched off, by replacing the cap. The pen preferably does not have any buttons or display thereon .

The paper with which the pen 2 is used is specially formed with a specially designed pattern. The pattern is formed by large numbers of small dots printed on the paper in an asymmetrical pattern as illustrated in Figure 2. The dots typically have nominal spacing of 0.3mm. The pattern is such that the small dots, generally designated by reference numeral 18, are slightly dislocated from a strict grid arrangement. The grid arrangement is identified by vertical lines 20 and horizontal lines 22. It will be appreciated that the drawing of Figure 2 is not to scale, and is provided only for the purpose of illustrating a general concept. Figure 2 also illustrates the letter 'A' written on the patterned page over the pattern of dots .

In use, as the pen is used to write on the paper in a conventional manner (e.g. in the drawings the letter 'A'), the camera 4 scans the dot pattern, and in conjunction with the processor 6 the precise location of the nib of the pen is determined. The camera 4 thus tracks the pen motion (i.e. the motion of the nib 16) relative to the dot pattern on the paper.

The dot pattern on the paper is such that to the human eye the paper appears as an off-white colour, the dots not being individually perceptible. The dot pattern is preferably such that the location of the pen can be identified to an accuracy of 30 microns.

As the pen 2 is used, the dots of the pattern on the paper are illuminated by infra-red light, provided by an infra-red illumination means forming part of the digital camera 4. The infra-red light makes the dots visible for the digital camera 4. Digital snapshots, preferably at a rate of 100 per second, are taken of the pattern. Every snap-shot contains enough information to make a calculation of the exact position of the pen. The ink from the pen is not visible to the camera, and therefore writing does not degrade the pattern.

A very small portion of the pattern uniquely defines the position on the full pattern, which encompasses an area exceeding 4.6 million km² (1.8 million miles²). Any point within that full pattern can be uniquely identified. The image processor calculates, in real-time, the exact position in the pattern. During image processing, snapshots are compared and information about how the pen is held is also gathered and stored.

The complete addressable area covered by the pattern may be divided into numerous domains varying in size. Some of these domains may be pre-defined for certain applications as discussed in further detail hereinbelow All the data from the image processor 6 is preferably packaged and loaded into the pen memory 8. The size of the memory may vary. The information is transmitted by the Bluetooth transceiver 10, either directly to a computer, or forwarded via a relay device (e.g. mobile phone, personal computer or handheld device) to a look-up service. Information may then be forwarded for further processing elsewhere.

The pen 2 holds an ordinary ink cartridge 14 to make anything that is written or drawn visible. A force-sensing resistor (not shown) may be used to measure the stylus tip force applied by the user of the pen.

A first aspect of the present invention is now described with reference to Figure 3 and Figure 4.

There are many applications where using a ballpoint pen or such like is not practical because the ink is not bold enough or sufficiently legible. Examples of scenarios where a ballpoint pen is not suitable are: sales presentations; lectures; and similar situations, where a presentation is being made, and comments, sketches, and other items are to be viewed by individuals or an audience from a distance. For such situations, a marker pen, such as a felt-tip marker, is usually used.

In a preferred embodiment of this aspect of the present invention there is therefore provided a pen, such as the Anoto pen, with a felt-tip provided thereon rather than a ballpoint or other type of ink nib .

In presentation or lecture scenarios where a white-board or a flip chart is used, it is also quite common for a set of marker pens of different colours to be used. Providing a set of pens, such as the Anoto pen, each with a different coloured nib or stylus would be expensive since each pen would need to be fitted with the associated electronics.

Therefore in accordance with this aspect of the invention it is proposed to provide a pen, such as the Anoto pen, with a removable stylus or nib such that different coloured nibs can be fitted to a single pen.

Referring to now to Figure 3, there is shown the pen 2 of Figure 1 adapted in accordance with a preferable embodiment of the present invention. A felt-tip 30 is provided on a felt-tip cartridge 32 that is removeably fitted to the body 38 of the pen 2. As can be seen in Figure 3 the cartridge 32 is provided at the end of the pen 2 adjacent the lens 36 of the digital camera, in the same location as the ball-point would normally be provided. The pen thus operates in exactly the same manner as a conventional pen 2 when being used.

In addition the cartridge 32 is provided with four cartridge colour markers 34a, 34b, 34c, and 34d. Each cartridge colour marker may be actually coloured the relevant colour, e.g. blue, such that the cartridge colour of the cartridge is easily identifiable. For a blue cartridge, for example, the other three of the colour markers 34 may be left blank.

More importantly, however, in accordance with this aspect of the invention the colour markers 34 provide physical means for identifying the colour of the ink in the cartridge, which physical means is engageable by physical means of the pen body 38, such that the pen body detects the colour of the cartridge 32. For example, the colour markers 34 may be indentations. That is, one of the four colour markers may be provided with an indentation, the indentation being detected by the pen body. On the other hand, the absence of an indentation in a colour marker 34 may indicate the colour of the cartridge 32.

Referring to Figure 4 a further specific example of a possible implementation is given. In this example, the colour of a particular cartridge is indicated by a small protrusion extending axially from the base of the cartridge 34. As shown in Figure 4 there are four possible locations for protrusions, 34a to 34d. Only one protrusion, 34c, is provided indicating the colour of the cartridge. The body 38 of the pen 2 is provided with four axially extending receptacles 40a to 40d for accommodating the four possible protrusions 34a to 34d. In the example of Figure 4, the receptacle 40c receives the protrusion 34c.

Each of the receptacles 40a to 40d is provided with means for detecting the presence of a corresponding protrusion 34a to 34d. This means may be an electrical detection means or a mechanical detection means for example.

Responsive to the detection of the presence of a protrusion 34a to 34d, the appropriate receptacle 40a to 40d sends a signal to the processor 6. This signal is indicative of the colour of the cartridge, and thus the processor is able to determine the colour that is currently being used by the pen, and this information can be stored and transmitted together with the information about what is actually being drawn or written. Thus the information that is transmitted and ultimately displayed, say, on a personal computer, will also show the colours used by the pen at the appropriate times.

It should be noted that the cartridge and the pen body might further be provided with additional physical engageable means for securing the cartridge 32 to the body 38.

Such a pen with a felt-tip could be used on specially adapted surfaces carrying the pattern to enable the movement of the pen to be detected. For example the pen could be used on white- boards or flip-charts carrying such a pattern. In this way, for example, lecture notes may be transmitted over the internet or to local devices as they are being drawn, allowing near realtime virtual meetings to take place.

The design of the means for engaging the cartridges 32 with the body of the pen 38 may be such as to ensure a quick and easy change to the colour being used. The pen preferably consists of similar electronics to that which is currently available in the Anoto pen, with a small modification to include electronics for detecting which pen cartridge is currently in the pen. The cartridge detection is required to allow the pen to determine and report the colour of the cartridge currently installed, so that drawings can accurately represent the pen strokes. The detection mechanism could be based on optical, mechanical, or other means. These could be simple electrical contacts, or optically recognisable bars. For example the arrangement shown in Figure 4 could be adapted such that the receptacles 40a to 40d contain optical means for detecting the presence or absence of a protrusion 34a to 34d. Alternatively optical means could be provided in place of the receptacles 40a to 40d for detecting special markings placed on the base of the cartridge 32.

Other means for enabling the pen to detect the colour of a cartridge, and the interoperability between the cartridges and the pen body, will be apparent to one skilled in the art.

Thus the pen body, in a preferred embodiment, preferably consists of the electronics of the existing Anoto pen, plus a receptacle for the felt-tip cartridge. When the cartridge is inserted, the pen automatically detects the colour, based on the colour cartridge indicators .

The cartridges are also preferably provided with a cartridge holder device that holds and "caps-off" the cartridges that are not in use so that the ink does not dry ou .

The felt-tip cartridges may be made available in "dry-erase" or other forms of ink as might be found in commonly used felt-tip markers .

Whilst this aspect of the invention has been described with reference to the inter-changeability of felt-tip cartridges to allow different colours to be used, and for the pen to detect the use of different colours, the general principle may be more generally applied.

For example, when a ball-point type stylus or nib is used, a ball-point re-fill, or an ink-well such as the well shown in Figure 1, may be replaced or re-filled with an ink of different colour. Thus in accordance with embodiments of this aspect of the invention any type of ink or writing device (i.e. stylus, nib) may be interchangeable. An appropriate means for detecting the colour of the ink used may then be provided. In addition, there may be means provided between the pen and the writing tip to identify the writing tip being used. For example the pen may be interchangeably fitted with any one of a pencil writing tip, a ballpoint writing tip, an ink writing tip, a felt-tip writing tip or any other type of writing tip. Thus this aspect of the invention preferably provides for a means for the pen to detect the type of writing tip fitted thereto, as well as the colour of the writing tip.

A further aspect of the present invention is now described with reference to Figure 5.

As described hereinabove, when preferably adapted to be provided with a felt-tip, the Anoto pen or a similar device can be advantageously used to write and draw during presentations, using a white-board for example. Such a white-board would have to be provided with a pattern associated with the pen being used, such that the optical equipment provided in the pen can track the movement of the pen.

Such an adapted white-board may still be used in a conventional manner using conventional marker pens .

By using such an Anoto pen provided with a felt-tip, in conjunction with an adapted white-board, the pen is able to record all drawing/writing that takes place on the board, for broadcast to local or remote PC's either in real-time or stored for transmission or use later.

In accordance with the preferred embodiment of this aspect of the invention, areas of the patterned white-board are reserved for special use. Such reserved areas or "check-boxes' are used to initiate certain specific actions. The reserved areas or 'check-boxes' correspond to certain functions unique to use with a white-board.

Examples of specific "white-board" actions, described further hereinbelow, are: 'erase'; 'copy'; and 'send'. Referring to Figure 5 there is illustrated, generally designated by reference numeral 50, a white board in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the invention. The board is provided with an 'erase' reserved area 52, a 'copy' reserved area 54, and a 'send' reserved area 56. The white board 50 is also provided with, as will be described further hereinbelow, a further reserved area 58.

The 'erase' check-box 52 is marked or checked using the pen any time a white-board user erases the board. This allows the software determining the location of the pen to know that the board has been erased, and to perform the "erasure" function that is appropriate to the use.

The 'copy' check-box 54 is marked or checked to cause a computer, e.g. a PC, to print a snapshot of the board and all of it's contents. This PC and printer may be a local PC and printer provided in the same room as the white-board, and may allow a speaker, for example, to keep a printed copy of the contents of their own talk.

The 'send' check-box 56 can be used to transmit a white-board image to a particular internet server or an e-mail address, as entered in another reserved area, or as pre-set by the system. Where the information on the white board is to be transmitted to a specific e-mail or internet address, then that address is entered into the reserved area or check-box 58 prior to checking the send box 56. In an alternative a phone number to which the information is to be sent may be entered into the box 58.

Such a white-board could replace known electro-mechanical boards that use scanners, ultra-sonic transducers, and other methods to track the board use . Because there are no electronics in the board itself, the cost of the board is much lower than other technologies having the same effect. As an example, current digital white-boards range in price from $600 - $2000 and more, whereas a plain white-board retails for less than $100.

A further aspect of the present invention is now described with reference to Figure 6. This aspect of the invention relates to a flip-chart, as may be typically used on an easel in a school or office environment. In accordance with this aspect of the invention, each page or sheet of the flip-chart has applied thereto the pattern designed for use with the Anoto, or similar type , pen . Each sheet of the paper pad preferably represents a different, unique part of the "paper space" available. Thus each page of the paper pad or flip-chart is uniquely identifiable by its pattern.

The flip chart is preferably used in conjunction with the felt- tip version of the Anoto Pen as described hereinabove, although conventional drawing utensils may also be used to draw on the paper . By using the Anoto pen in conjunction with this special flip chart, the pen is able to record all drawing that takes place on the chart for broadcast to local or remote stations. Because each piece of paper in the pad is unique from all others, the software is able to tell when a user starts a new page, or returns to a different one.

Such a flip-chart replaces plain, unintelligent flip charts with a smarter flip-chart with little increase in manufacturing cost . In accordance with the preferred embodiment of this aspect of the invention, areas of the patterned pages of the flip-chart are reserved for special use. Such reserved areas or 'checkboxes' are used to initiate certain specific actions. The reserved areas or 'check-boxes' correspond to certain functions unique to use with a flip-chart.

Example specific "flip-chart" actions, described further hereinbelow, are: ' 'copy'; and 'send'. Referring to Figures 6 (a) and 6 (b) there are illustrated, generally designated by reference numerals 60 and 70, two pages of a flip chart in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the invention. Each page 60 and 62 is provided with a 'copy' reserved area 64, and a 'send' reserved area 66. The pages 60 and 70 are also each provided with, as will be described further hereinbelow, a further reserved area 68 and 70. The 'copy' check-box 64 or 74 is marked or checked to cause a computer, e.g. a PC, to print a snapshot of the current sheet of the flip-chart and all of its contents. This PC and printer may be a local PC and printer provided in the same room as the flip-chart . The 'send' check-box 66 or 76 can be used to transmit a page of the flip-chart image to a particular internet server or an e- mail address, as entered in another reserved area, or as preset by the system. Where the information on a page or sheet of the flip-chart is to be transmitted to a specific e-mail or internet address, then that address is entered into the reserved area or check-box 68 or 78 prior to checking the send box 56. In an alternative a phone number to which the information is to be sent may be entered into the box 68 or 78. The reserved areas, such as 'copy' and 'send', are optional, and could be replaced or expanded upon with additional reserved areas .

A further aspect of the present invention is now described with reference to Figure 7. This aspect of the present invention is an enhancement to the existing Esselte/Leitz "Easy-Flip" brand of 'flip-chart' rolls.

The Easy-Flip uses electrostatically charged rolls of film that cling to almost every smooth surface. The charged rolls of film have pre-cut tear locations at which the roll is intended to be torn or cut to provide individual sheets . In accordance with this aspect of the present invention the charged rolls of film are further adapted to include a pattern detectable by the Anoto pen or similar device. The thus adapted rolls of film may be used as a digital flip-chart. Each sheet of the roll may be imprinted with a different, unique part of the "paper space" available, so that the pen can determine when a user has switched to a different sheet. Thus the sheets of the Easy Flip may be adapted in much the same way as the sheets of a standard flip-chart are adapted and as described hereinabove with reference to Figure 6.

The Easy Flip flip-chart may be preferably used with the felt- tip version of the Anoto pen as described hereinabove. However the roll could still be used using conventional drawing/writing utensils .

By using the felt-tip pen in conjunction with the specially adapted roll of film, a pen such as the Anoto pen is able to record all drawing that takes place on roll of film, for broadcast to local or remote PC's for example. Because each sheet of film in the roll is provided with a portion of the pattern such that it is unique from all others, the software is able to tell when a user starts a new page, or returns to a different one. This operation occurs in the same way as that described hereinabove with reference to Figure 6.

The Easy-Flip dispenser additionally includes a cutter that allows sheets to be separated at any location, and not just at the pre-cut tear locations. In a further preferred embodiment of this aspect of the invention the pen, such as the Anoto pen, is provided with means to determine when the cutter is being used. This may be provided in any easily sensed way. Examples of techniques for detecting the cutting of the roll are given hereinbelow by way of example.

Referring firstly to Figure 7, there is illustrated a roll of Easy Flip generally designated by reference numeral 80. The solid lines 90 to 96 denote pre-cut tear locations, which define four sheets 82, 84, 86 and 88. The arrangement of the Easy Flip roll is therefore in effect the same as the arrangement of the standard flip chart of Figure 6 in terms of how the patterned areas are split up so that the location of the pen on a sheet, and the sheet being used, can be identified.

However, as discussed hereinabove, it is also possible to arbitrarily cut the roll 80 at any point. Referring to Figure 7, it is assumed that a user cuts the roll at an arbitrary location as indicated by dashed line 98.

A special pre-printed or reserved area on each pre-determined sheet of the roll dispenser may be provided, as indicated by check-box 100 in sheet 86. When an arbitrary cut is to be made in the sheet, the user first makes a mark in the check-box. This indicates to the software that an arbitrary cut is to be made in that sheet. Thereafter the user draws a line along the dashed line 98, indicating the position of the intended cut. Thus the software is notified of the location of the cut, and is able to identify if any writing on sheet 86 is above or below the line, which part of the cut sheet the information is on.

In an alternative arrangement, a simple, reserved, pen-stroke may be provided to notify the pen (and hence the system) of an intended cut, after which a horizontal line may be drawn to indicate the position of the cut . That is rather than providing each sheet with a check-box 100, a particular character is reserved, for example a Greek letter or mathematical symbol or made-up symbol, to indicate that a cut is to take place, and the software then knows that the line next drawn across the page is the location of a cut. This arrangement removes the need to print an extra check-box on parts of the roll of the Easy Flip . It is important to note that even without this preferable functionality to enable discretionary or arbitrary cuts this aspect of the present invention provides advantages. The only capability provided by this preferable, but not essential, feature is to determine when a sheet has been cut at a location other than the standard pre-cut cutting location.

Furthermore, although not shown in Figure 7, areas of the Easy Flip chart (for example selected sheets or all sheets) could be reserved, and pre-printed with "checkboxes" corresponding to certain functions, as described hereinabove with reference to Figure 6.

A 'copy' check-box may be provided, and may be marked or checked to cause a computer, e.g. a PC, to print a snapshot of the current sheet of the Easy-Flip chart and all of its contents. This PC and printer may be a local PC and printer provided in the same room as the Easy-Flip chart.

A 'send' check-box may be provided to transmit a page of the Easy-Flip chart image to a particular internet server or an e- mail address, as entered in another reserved area, or as pre- set by the system.

The reserved areas such as 'copy' and 'send' are optional, and could be replaced or expanded upon with additional reserved areas . Where the information on a page or sheet of the flip- chart is to be transmitted to a specific e-mail or internet address, then that address is entered into the reserved area or check-box 68 or 78 prior to checking the send box 56. In an alternative a phone number to which the information is to be sent may be entered into the box 68 or 78. The reserved areas, such as 'copy' and 'send', are optional, and could be replaced or expanded upon with additional reserved areas .

Further aspects of the present invention are discussed hereinbelow.

In one further aspect there is provided a telephone message pad. An individual taking a message uses the Anoto pen, or similar to write the message. When the message is completed, a reserved area on the telephone message form is completed with a pager number or e-mail address for example. A further reserved area is then checked off to indicate that the telephone message is complete. Responsive to this, the message is sent by pager or e-mail to the intended recipient. In a similar aspect there may be provided post- it notes.

In further similar aspects there may be provided specialist applications such as index cards, doctors prescriptions, restaurant order books, garage registrations, excel sheets. All would require information to be written on a patterned surface using the pen, and then for a reserved check box to be marked with the pen which would transmit the information.

In a second further aspect there is provided a visitor logbook. Such a log book could enable digital signatures to be recorded. Accurate arrival/departure times may be recorded. When the visitor signs in, a page or e-mail may be sent to the party being visited, to alert them of their arrival. Such a technique would require some information identifying the party being visited to be entered by the visitor. Currently, when information is detected by the Anoto pen, the information is transmitted to the Anoto.com server, and the

Anoto.com serve resolves the paper owner, and re-directs the pen to the server intended to handle that piece of paper. In a further aspect it is proposed that certain papers may be labelled as 'local paper' . The Anoto.com server may return an identifier for a local Bluetooth receiver for the local paper communicate with, along with some configuration information. This would allow the Anoto Pen to be used locally, to control such devices as: video cassette recorders; a Bluetooth-enabled label maker; a sketchpad for the a personal data assistant, e.g. a Palm Pilot (like a Seiko product); a digital shopping list for internet enabled shopping; a digital shopping list for internet enabled refrigerators; a fax machine (using a local fax, as opposed to a server); a digital check register.

Advantageously the Anoto pen, or similar type of pen, may wirelessly communicate directly with a local printing device such as hand-held printing device. The hand-held printing device may be a label printer. Such an arrangement there would be no requirement for there to be any interface other than between the pen and the label printer. The label printer could be a Datemark printer.

The printer could enable the direct printing of Chinese characters . In a further aspect the present invention provides internet enabled games, including for example Tic-Tac-Toe; Battleship; Caricatures - as they are being drawn, they are sent to an email inbox; and Crossword puzzles. Other aspects of the invention enable electronic form filling, such as: electronic notary where the signature is digitally captured; bowling or golf score cards; electronic flight plan filing; and instant scoring of standardized tests, like the SAT.

In yet another aspect there is provided map creation software. Such map creation software is tailored to the design of the patterned paper, or specific portions of the patterned paper.

Example products based on the various aspects of the present invention are:

1) An SMS (short messaging service) & e-mail pocket pad

This comprises a small pocket spiral pad format, having a height of 80mm, width of 100 mm, spiral at top, congruent to computer display. 24 sheets 70 g/m.2. A different pattern is provided on each sheet. Fields for telephone numbers and e- mail addresses are provided. Two functional buttons for transmitting are provided.

2) A fax & e-mail desktop pad

A height of 50mm, width of 21mm, spiral at left side, 24 sheets 90 g/m2. A different pattern is provided on each sheet .

3) Record card - Speech card set

Use for speech. Front sheet plus 12 sheets 200 g/m2 A6. A different pattern is provided on each sheet. Fields for Subject, e-mail, and fax number.

In a further aspect of the invention there is provided a technique for making a barcode from Anoto pattern on a standard form, printed as a variable print in the printer (inkjet or laser) . This means all forms are unique. This technique is easily connected to an established barcode system.

Referring to Figure 8 there is illustrated the implementation of the various aspects of the present invention in an internet based environment .

Information, including the pen identity and the x- and y- coordinates identified by the pen, are forwarded via a Bluetooth link from the pen 100 to a mobile phone 102. The phone 102 relays this information to the Anoto look-up service 106 via the internet 104. The Anoto look-up service instructs the pen to contact the service provider's named server 108. The provider's name server instructs the pen on what data to send, how to format and tag the data and where (to which service handler) to send the data. The data is then sent to the service handler. An acknowledgment is then sent to the pen 100 to finish the operation.

Referring to Figure 9- there is illustrated an implementation of the various aspects of the present invention in a local application.

A local computer 110 is provided with the pen 100. Information, including the pen identity and the x- and y- coordinates identified by the pen, are forwarded via a Bluetooth link from the pen 100 to the local computer 110. The computer software, together with the application definition database 116, gives instructions to the pen 100 on what data to send, and how to format and tag the data, and to which local application 114 to send the data. Pen-stroke information, together with information about the local application, is sent to the local application that handles the request. An acknowledgement is sent back to the pen 100 to complete the operation.

For the avoidance of doubt, it is emphasised that whilst various aspects of the present invention are presented herein with specific reference to the example of an Anoto pen, none of the aspects of the invention disclosed herein are limited to being used in conjunction with an Anoto pen.

Claims

1. A writing tip for a pen, the pen being adapted to interface with a patterned writing surface and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surface, wherein the tip is for removably attaching to the pen.

2. A writing tip according to claim 1, wherein the tip is preferably adapted to interface with the pen such that the pen receives information identifying the tip.

3. A writing tip according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the tip may be provided with means for engaging the pen, said means including means for identifying the tip.

4. A writing tip according to claim 3 wherein the means for identifying the tip may be a physical engaging means between the tip and the pen.

5. A writing tip according to claim 3 wherein the means for identifying the tip may be an electronic means between the tip and the pen.

6. A writing tip according to claim 3 wherein the means for identifying the tip may be an optical means between the tip and the pen.

7. A writing tip according to claim 3 wherein the tip is provided with a plurality of said means for identifying, corresponding to the plurality of different types of₍ tip available.

8. A writing tip according to any preceding claim, wherein the tip is one of: an ink tip such as a biro or a ballpoint tip, a felt tip or a pencil .

9. A writing tip according to claim 8, wherein and the pen further receives information identifying the type of tip.

10. A writing tip according to any preceding claim wherein the tip may be a coloured tip, and the pen may receive information identifying the colour of the tip.

11. A writing tip according to any preceding claim, wherein the pen is adapted to transmit the detected movement of the pen relative to the patterned surface.

12. A writing tip according to claim 11 wherein the pen is adapted to additionally transmit information identifying the tip.

13. A writing tip according to claim 12 wherein such information includes the type of tip or the colour of the tip.

14. A writing tip according to any one of claims 11 to 13 wherein the transmission may be via a wireless link.

15. A writing tip according to claim 14 wherein the wireless link is a Bluetooth link.

16. A writing tip according to claim 14 or claim 15 wherein the wireless link is to a local device such as a mobile telephone, personal data assistant, or personal computer.

17. A writing tip according to claim 16 wherein the local device is connected to further devices by any one of: wireless links; fixed links; a local area network; or the internet .

18. A patterned writing surface for a pen, the pen being adapted to interface with the patterned writing surface and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surface, wherein the patterned writing surface is permanently provided on an erasable surface.

19. A patterned writing surface according to claim 18 wherein the ink of the pen is erasable from the surface.

20. The patterned writing surface of claim 18 or claim 19 wherein the pen is adapted to transmit the detected movement of the pen relative to the patterned surface.

21. The patterned writing surface of any ones of claims 18 to 20 wherein the surface is provided with a reserved area for indicating a special operation, wherein if the pen is used in the reserved area a special operation is detected.

22. The patterned writing surface of claim 21 wherein a special operation is identified responsive to transmission by the pen of the use of the pen in the reserved area.

23. The patterned writing surface of claim 21 or claim 22 wherein the reserved area may indicate an erasure operation, wherein if the surface is erased, the pen is used in the reserved area.

24. The patterned writing surface of claim 23 wherein the erased surface is preferably electronically stored and/or transmitted.

25. The patterned writing surface of claim 23 or claim 24 wherein the erasure operation is transmitted by the pen responsive to use in the reserved area.

26. The patterned writing surface of any one of claims 21 to 25 wherein the reserved area indicates a copy operation, wherein if the information on the surface is to be copied, the pen is used in the reserved area.

27. The patterned writing surface of claim 26 is electronically stored and/or transmitted.

28. The patterned writing surface of claim 26 or claim 27 wherein the copy operation is transmitted by the pen responsive to use in the reserved area.

29. The patterned writing surface of any one of claims 26 to 28 wherein the copied surface is printed on a printer.

30. The patterned writing surface of claim 29 wherein the printer is a label printer wirelessly connected to the pen.

31. The patterned writing surface of claim 21 to 30 wherein the reserved area may indicate a send operation, wherein if the information on the surface is to be sent, the pen is used in the reserved area.'

32. The patterned writing surface of claim 31 wherein the send operation is transmitted by the pen responsive to use in the reserved area.

33. The patterned writing surface of any one of claims 21 to 32 including a further reserved area, wherein in use a destination is entered using the pen in the further reserved area prior to the pen being used in the reserved area.

34. The patterned writing surface of claim 34 wherein the further information is an electronic address, for example an internet address, or a number.

35. A method of notifying erasure of a patterned writing surface for a pen, the pen being adapted to interface with the patterned writing surface and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surface, wherein the patterned writing surface is permanently provided on an erasable surface, the method comprising providing the writing surface with a reserved area . wherein if the surface is erased, the pen is used in the reserved area.

36. A plurality of patterned writing surfaces for a pen, each patterned surface being distinct, the pen being adapted to interface with the patterned writing surfaces and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surfaces, wherein the identity of the patterned writing surface being used is detected by the optical means by the distinct pattern of that surface.

37. A plurality of patterned writing surfaces according to claim 36 wherein each patterned surface is a sheet of a flip chart pad.

38. A plurality of patterned writing surfaces according to claim 37 wherein the optical means thereby detects the sheet number of the flip chart pad being used.

39. A plurality of patterned writing surfaces according to any one of claims 36 to 38 wherein the pen is adapted to transmit the detected movement of the pen relative to the patterned surface .

40. A plurality of patterned writing surfaces according to any one of claims 36 to 39 wherein the pen is further adapted to transmit the sheet number of the flip chart pad being used.

41. A plurality of patterned writing surfaces according to any one of claims 36 to 40, wherein the surface is provided with a reserved area for indicating a special operation, wherein if the pen is used in the reserved area a special operation is detected.

42. A plurality of patterned writing surfaces according to claim 41 wherein a special operation may be identified responsive to transmission by the pen of the use of the pen in the reserved area.

43. A method for identifying the one of a plurality of patterned writing surfaces, each patterned surface being distinct and being for use with a pen being adapted to interface with the patterned writing surfaces and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surfaces, wherein the identity of the patterned writing surface being used is detected by the optical means by the distinct pattern of that surface .

44. The method of claim 43 wherein each patterned surface is a sheet of a flip chart pad.

45. The method of claim 44 wherein the optical means thereby detects the sheet number of the flip chart pad being used.

46. A patterned writing surface for a pen, the pen being adapted to interface with the patterned writing surface and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surface, wherein the writing surface may be divided, means being provided for the pen to indicate a division of the writing surface .

47. The patterned writing surface of claim 46 wherein the means comprises a reserved area on the writing surface, wherein use of the pen in the reserved area indicates an intention to divide the paper.

48. The patterned writing surface of claim 47 wherein following the use of the pen in such reserved area, the location of the divide is indicated by drawing a line along the proposed division.

49. The patterned writing surface of any one of claims 46 to 48 wherein the use of the pen in the reserved area is detected by the optical means .

50. The patterned writing surface of any one of claims 46 to 49 wherein the location of the divide is preferably detected by the optical means.

51. The patterned writing surface of any one of claims 46 to 50 wherein the means comprises a reserved symbol, the use of which on the writing surface indicates an intention to divide the paper.

52. The patterned writing surface of claim 51 wherein following the use of such reserved symbol, the location of the divide is indicated by drawing a line along the proposed division.

53. The patterned writing surface of any one of claims 46 to 47 wherein there is provided a plurality of patterned writing surfaces, each patterned surface being distinct, the identity of the patterned writing surface being used being preferably detected by the optical means by the distinct pattern of that surface.

54. The patterned writing surface of claim 53 wherein the identity of the patterned writing surface being divided is detected by the optical means by the distinct pattern of that surface .

55. A method for providing indication of division of a patterned writing surface, for use with a pen being adapted to interface with the patterned writing surface and being provided with an optical means for detecting movement of the pen relative to the patterned writing surface, means being provided for the pen to indicate a division of the writing surface. The means may comprise a reserved area on the writing surface, wherein use of the pen in the reserved area indicates an intention to divide the paper. Preferably, following the use of the pen in such reserved area, the location of the divide is indicated by drawing a line along the proposed division. The means may comprise a reserved symbol, the use of which on the writing surface indicates an intention to divide the paper. Preferably, following the use of such reserved symbol, the location of the divide is indicated by drawing a line along the proposed division.

56. A pen substantially as described herein.

57. A cartridge for a pen substantially as described herein.

58. A writing tip for a pen substantially as described herein.

59. A pen substantially as described herein with reference to, or as shown in, either Figure 3 or Figure 4.

60. A cartridge for a pen substantially as described herein with reference to, or as shown in, either Figure 3 or Figure 4.

61. A writing tip for a pen substantially as described herein with reference to, or as shown in, either Figure 3 or Figure

4.

62. A writing surface for a pen substantially as described herein.

63. A writing surface for a pen substantially as described herein with reference to or as shown in any one of Figures 3 to 7.

64. A pen for use with a writing surface substantially as described herein.

65. A pen for use with a writing surface substantially as described herein with reference to or as shown in any one of

Figures 3 to 7.

66 . A method of communicating with a writing surface substantially as described herein.

67. A method of communicating with a writing surface substantially as described herein with reference to or as shown in any one of Figures 3 to 7.

68. An electronic communication system substantially as described herein.

69. An electronic communication system substantially as described herein with reference to, or as shown in, any one of Figures 3 to 7.