A system for translating text streams of alphanumeric characters into preconfigured, haptic output. Text strings are parsed against a grammar index to locate assigned haptic or vibratory output. This may include speech-to-text, chat messaging, or text arrays of any kind. When a match is located, a standardized haptic output pattern is invoked through a haptic device. A device affordance module adapts the haptic output pattern to the capabilities of the target haptic device.