Carlo Ratti Associatti has developed an intelligent robot capable of writing and drawing on vertical surfaces.

Called Scribit, the device allows users to personalise any wall, transforming it into a 'wonder wall', with customisable digital content. It can be installed in just five minutes, needing only two nails and a power point, and features patented technology that enables users to draw, erase and re-draw new content numerous times without damaging the surface. Controlled by an app, users can upload content, or source it from the internet. Its interactive software enables the device to replicate any kind of data - including notes, messages, images and graphics - in real time. Once digital information is received by Scribit it begins to replicate it immediately.

The Scribit is circular in shape and measures 20cm x 8cm (7.9" x3") in diameter, it is covered in aluminium, with four different coloured marker pens at its centre. It works on a two-axis plane and moves up and down on thin cables attached to the surface.

"We are totally deluged with information, and spend too much time of our non-sleeping time in front of one form or another of digital screen - TV, desktop computers, laptops, tablets or phones. Do we really want to add more screens to our lives." said Carlo Ratti, founding partner of Carlo Ratti Associati and director of the MIT Senseable City Lab at MIT.

"Scribit offers up an alternative: a robotic system that draws on any kind of vertical surface, following a primordial act performed by humanity since our first cave graffiti."

Unveiled at Milan Design Week, as part of Ratti's Living Nature installation, the Scribit is the result of Ratti's ongoing investigation into and development of writing machines.

The firm is hoping to raise funds for the Scribit via an online crowdfunding campaign, which will be running until 5 July.