Pinframes

Pinframes, also known as pegboards or dot matrices, are a type of interactive display or input device. They consist of a grid of pins that can be individually raised or lowered. These pins can be manipulated by hand or by a mechanism to form shapes, patterns, or text. Historically, pinframes were used as early forms of visual displays for computers or as tactile interfaces.

The simplest pinframes are manual, where users push the pins up or down to create their desired output. More advanced pinframes are electromechanical, with each pin connected to a motor or solenoid that can control its position automatically. This allows for dynamic displays that can change rapidly. Pinframes have also been used as a form of early computer output, displaying simple graphics or characters.

In educational settings, pinframes can serve as a tactile learning tool for understanding spatial concepts or for children to create 3D designs. They can also be used in art installations and interactive exhibits to create engaging visual experiences. While less common in modern consumer electronics, the underlying principle of individually controllable elements in a grid remains relevant in technologies like LED displays and programmable matter. The simplicity and tactile nature of pinframes make them a unique and enduring concept in human-computer interaction.