I was exposed to this idea a few years ago on access features for blind and partially-sighted people.* I heard of tourist venues such as zoos and parks where maps could be read from a tablet hung from one's neck while walking around the place and touching signs and posts.
Someone I know who is blind had used an audio aid or device when visiting an art gallery, and had the exhibits confused as the description from the aid did not match the exhibits. It would not have mattered if his companion is also blind, as they could not touch the objects to verify the fact, obviously! I am sure a technical solution is at hand, if we complain about that, but it is annoying when something does not work.
Marcus mentioned about a tablet that can be connected to a computer and be used by touch which have 12 different layers. He said a better tactile map is available at the Tower of London, compared to the one below. The Cambridge ones that were taken and shown below are found near King's Parade, in front of the Great St. Mary's church. There are similar ones in York. However, these are not portable and not updatable.
Some websites that have more information about tactile maps;
Best practice guidelines for the design, production and presentation of vacuum formed tactile maps
Tactile maps with braille labels
Mapping for the Vision Impaired
* The term 'visually-impaired' is commonly used. However, it is not really correct, as it would mean 'ugly'. So, 'vision-impaired' is correct. But when consulted, blind people do not mind being referred to as 'blind people' rather than just 'the blind'.
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