Ballpoint Pen Uses Conductive Ink To Let You Draw Real Electronic Circuits

Electroninks Incorporated, originally part of a research lab for the University of Illinois, has developed a rollerball pen that allows you to create fully functioning circuits through silver conductive ink.

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Circuit Scribe means that you can draw electroinc circuits and then test a prototype concept, all without the use of wires, boards or soldering. You need only to start drawing and then you can try out your design with nothing more than a coin battery and an LED. And because the water-based ink dries instantly, you can start testing a freshly drawn circuit straight away.

The idea behind the Circuit Scribe is to get as many people as possible educated about electroincs, giving all ages the potential to learn about circuitry. It can even help tech enthusiasts create their own quick prototypes.

There is a selection of components which are on offer, from simple buzzers and LED lights to the more complex photo sensors and potentiometers. It can also be used as a tool for hackers because it is able to interface with the Arduino MaKey MaKey, allowing for more intricate designs.

The potential is there to create a simple switch but for the more adventurous, you can make your own fully functioning touchpad.
Circuit Scribe is already past its initial fundraising goal of $85,000 through a Kickstarter campaign. The plan is to build a robust education platform and STEM outreach program.

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