Whilst looking for more up-to-date scanning devices I came across this nice haptic interface that extends the capabilities of everyday objects. It comes from the Fluid Interfaces Group of the MIT Media Lab and uses my favourite definition of a haptic device as a device you can use in the dark (or with your eyes closed).
I think they were more interested in identifying objects that were ubiquitous, simple and obvious to use rather than in their specifically haptic nature.
But what is interesting about this proposal is that it allows such simple devices to be given extra powers, to for instance to allow the light switch to change the colour of the light.
grahamshawcross.com 