2 Odor Generator Formats Could Be the Solution To Incorporate Scents Into Virtual Reality

We are getting close to making virtual reality (VR) something we can smell. Researchers have developed two ways to incorporate scent in VR.

Adding Scent to VR

There is no doubt that VR has changed our perspective of things. However, it is still too far from being real, especially because the scent is hard to recreate on the platform.

However, researchers from Beihang University and the City University of Hong Kong were able to design two different device configurations to add the sense of smell in VR, The Verge reported.

The first kind of wearable attaches to the skin beneath the nose. The second is a mask.

The former can produce two fragrances, while the latter can create up to nine odors. Both generators include scented wax, which, when heated, may disperse the appropriate aroma in a small area in 1.44 seconds.

A total of 30 distinct fragrances, including rosemary, mojito, pancake, pineapple, and ginger, were produced by the researchers. Due to the inclusion of durian on the list of fragrances, some felt the researchers must also have a dark sense of humor. The outlet likened the smell of a durian fruit to the smells of old gym socks, rotting flesh, and raw sewage.

The virtual world has remained mainly odorless, even though modern VR headsets can replicate visual, sound, and touch. Part of that is the lack of a classy way to incorporate fragrances into heavy VR equipment.

In theory, the researchers' version of this technology might be applied to produce a more immersive user experience in virtual learning environments, 4D movies, and video games. They also offered suggestions, such as employing smells to evoke memories or providing alternative communication.

Other businesses are also addressing the issue; some are developing cartridges for headsets, while others are attempting to smell neckbands. In either case, it'll be some time before anyone can take a moment to appreciate the online world.

The study was published in the journal Nature Communications.

Haptic Actuators to Add Sense of Touch in VR

In a previous report from Science Times, feelies found the answer to the lack of physical touch in virtual reality with the use of haptic devices, which are available in different forms like haptic suits, haptic vests, and haptic gloves.

Haptic devices or haptic interfaces mediate communication between the user and the computer. Users may touch, feel, and move three-dimensional things in the virtual environment using haptic devices, which are mechanical devices.

Because they follow the user's movement and deliver genuine touch sensations corresponding with the events onscreen, haptic devices can be regarded as input-output devices. Devices like joysticks and steering wheels that include unique motors and sensors are examples of haptic devices.

A haptic vest from a Spanish company revolutionized the gaming experience in VR. The vest is worn close to the skin and uses electrical stimulation rather than vibrating actuators.

It will provide different regions of the body with current at adjustable amounts. In addition to causing tingling, it can make muscles contract. Gamers loved the effects as the vest successfully recreated the feeling when their character was being shot, stabbed, or blown apart.

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