IIT, Madras has developed a touchscreen display which carries an image of textile fabric to feel its texture as the finger moves across it on the screen.

There are software algorithms which detect small edges in any image and create friction on the display. There is a multi-touch sensor to assess the movement of the finger. The software adjusts surface friction on the screen.

With this software, different textures are created — crisp edges, switches and rich textures. The feel is from smooth to gritty. Advantage is taken of the phenomenon called electric adhesion which controls electric fields. Though this the software modulates friction locally as the fingers travel on a plane.

A material that adds electrostatic friction is added to feel the texture shown on the screen. It works 50 per cent, and another 50 per cent work is done by the algorithm. These images can be clicked by ordinary smartphones. These can emulate the texture on the screen. Additional processing is not called for. Sensors in the display of the smartphones, laptops and PCs can do image processing. The energy requirement is minimal. Thus it is safer.

This can be used by e-commerce organisations. IIT-M has patented the technology.

It will cost a few thousand rupees when it will be commercially available.