Applied Minds has developed a touch table that displays information in a three dimensional way. Originally developed for Northrop Grummen this table creates a three-dimensional tactile physical map. 4600 pins powered by a single motor push up touch-sensitive silicone screen to simulate the height topography, while vacuum sucks down the rest of the ‘unpinned’ skin. An overhead projector displays a geographical map on skin. The touch-sensitive skin allows gesture input for panning, zooming, & locating. This system responds to touch and can be reprogrammed to display different types of information.

More info can be found here.