Abstract: The invention concerns an image capture and haptic input device. The device comprises at least one image sensor and haptic input means. The invention is characterized in that the image sensor is surrounded by the haptic input means. The latter can comprise discrete touch sensors distributed in a circle around the image sensor or in a matrix at the center of which the image sensor is positioned. The device can also comprise rows of touch sensors positioned offset from each other so that the touch sensors are staggered. In that case, the device comprises several image sensors positioned in interstices between the touch sensors. Instead of discrete touch sensors, the device can comprise a deformable sensitive membrane in the center of which an image sensor is positioned.

Abstract: A method enabling at least one blind user to perceive a form using at least one sensory stimulator including creating at least one virtual sensor having a multiplicity of analysis fields; displacing the virtual sensor with a pointing device on or towards the form; and controlling a sensitive element of the sensory stimulator with each analysis field to enable perception of the form with the sensory stimulator by modifying the state of each sensitive element; and a device for implementing the method, including a computer with a memory in which the form is contained, the computer being optionally associated with a display screen; a pointing device; and at least one sensory stimulator.