DataTiles: A Modular Platform for Mixed Physical and Graphical Interactions

This is a new interface element from Sony Labs. You place a tile based on the information you want ...

"The DataTiles system integrates the benefits of two major interaction paradigms: graphical and physical user interfaces. Tagged transparent tiles are used as modular construction units. These tiles are augmented by dynamic graphical information when they are placed on a sensor-enhanced flat panel display. They can be used independently or can be combined into more complex configurations, similar to the way language can express complex concepts through a sequence of simple words."   continued ...   (Via Sony Labs)