Combined writing instrument and digital documentor apparatus and method of use

Abstract

A device and method is disclosed for the contemporaneous creation of a digital copy of a written document using a self-contained, hand-held communications device. The self-contained device functions as a writing device and as a digital documenter. It allows for maintenance of position sense within a document thus enabling the user to write cursive, print, draw, write mathematical formulas, draw symbols, punctuate, edit and the like. The invention discloses a self-contained apparatus and method for determining position sense without reliance on special paper, pads, or attachments to the document. The system provides position sense during writing by quantitative comparative analysis of serial images of the surface imperfections of the document. Character generation is discriminated from noncharacter-generating positional changes such as spacing between words. Encryption of data output from the device provides privacy. Encryption and attachment of the device's unique identifying code to a digital copy of a document created by the device provides for confirmation of the source. Uses of the device include short text messaging for cell phones, email composition, note taking in business and education, medical records, and electronic commerce. The imaging system can also be used to read barcodes on documents, allowing for applications to inventory control. Transmission of the digital copy of the document can be through a wired or wireless connection to external digital devices such as cellular phone, personal digital assistant, netpliance, or computer.