This tiny Smell-o-Vision wearable for VR can help wearers detect different odors

Image credit : New York Post Researchers may have found a solution to the challenge of replicating smells in virtual reality (VR): wearable odor generators. In a recent paper published in Nature Communications, researchers from Beihang University and the City University of Hong Kong introduced two types of devices. The first is a wearable device that attaches beneath the nose, while the second is a soft mask. [caption id="attachment_186371" align="aligncenter" width="2000"] Image credit : Daily Mail[/caption] These devices can produce a range of scents by heating scented wax within 1.44 seconds, creating a localized olfactory experience. The researchers successfully generated 30 different scents, including rosemary, mojito, pancake, pineapple, and ginger. Interestingly, they also included the scent of durian, known for its pungent and unpleasant odor. [caption id="attachment_186370" align="aligncenter" width="1021"] Image credit : EEWeb[/caption] Although current VR systems can simulate visuals, sounds, and touch, they generally lack the sense of smell. This is partly due to the difficulty of incorporating scents into bulky VR equipment. The researchers envision that their wearable odor generators could enhance immersion in video games, 4D films, and virtual teaching environments. They also suggested the possibility of using scents for alternative communication or triggering memories. Also read : Moggie’s AI-powered activity-tracker offers advanced health monitoring of felines While this research presents one approach to integrating scents into VR, other companies are also exploring solutions. Some are developing scent cartridges for VR headsets, while others are experimenting with scented neckbands. Nevertheless, it will still take some time before fully immersive olfactory experiences become commonplace in virtual reality.