NYU researchers have developed new technology called Inexpensive Multi-Touch Pressure Acquisition Devices (IMPAD) that can be made paper thin and can fit on small portable devices or cover an entire table or wall.

IMPAD measures a change in electrical resistance when a person or object applies different pressure to a specially designed pad, consisting of only a few layers of materials. It opens up a new dimension of pressure that can be used for virtual sculpting and painting applications; a simulated mouse with left clicks, right clicks, and drags; or musical instruments like a piano keyboard.