wacom ‘inkling’ converts freehand drawings to digital files, including multiple layers

known for a range of tools that digitize freehand drawings, wacom has designed the ‘inkling‘, a wireless pen and receiver set that tracks one’s penstrokes, enabling the immediate upload and editing of drawings on a computer.

users can store up to 50 independent projects at one time on the device. penstrokes are recorded as long as there is a line of sight between the ‘inkling’ pen and receiver, a button on the latter of which enables the creation of new layers in a design that are then accessible for editing in photoshop, illustrator, and autodesk sketchbook pro.

during use the receiver can clip to the edge of paper or sketchbooks. images are uploaded via USB to computers, where users can edit, add, or delete layers and convert to a range of file formats using wacom’s sketch manager software.

the device records pressure to 1024 levels of sensitivity. while the nibs are interchangeable, they are at present planned to be exclusively standard ballpoints.

available in mid-september, the wacom ‘inkling’ retails for 199 USD.

wacom inkling digital pen detail on case, which fits the receiver (not shown) and pen (end with green LED shown, inserted)

wacom inkling digital pen the device in use

promotional video for ‘inkling’

video tutorial on the use of ‘inkling’

wacom inkling digital pen

design-aerobics 2011: TECH GADGETS course september 15 – november 15, 2011 as more and more technological objects find their way into everyday life

designboom will hold an online design course on the theme of ‘tech-gadgets’. we’ll look at the most significant designs yet and ponder what might be around the corner. to see a lesson sample and information on how to enroll click here.