Abstract: An image processing apparatus functioning as a writing device that images information as it is written on to a surface by measuring the forces applied at the stylus tip. The imaging device includes a ink pen cartridge and strain gauges mounted along the longitudinal axis of the cartridge. The strain gauges measure lateral forces deflecting the pen cartridge, and the longitudinal forces pressing the cartridge into the pen housing. Alternatively, strain gauges can also determine the force of the pen tip against the writing surface. The gauges generate signals representative of the forces applied to the pen point as the pen moves along or presses against a writing surface. A further set of sensors can be employed to determine movement and orientation of the device relative to the surface even when the pen is not in contact with the surface. Data representative of the written images are captured by analyzing the forces applied to the pen point.