Think about the fact that it is a goal some people are working on to create a virutual experience with all five senses that is so real it can not be distinguished from real life. It sounds impossible now, but if they ever get there in the future, say with brain interfaces, your own life could technically be one of those simulations, right?
Here’s an updated overview of the latest developments in multi-sensory virtual reality technology:
Advanced Multi-Sensory VR Systems
Recent advancements have brought us closer to fully immersive virtual reality experiences that engage all five senses:
Visual and Auditory Improvements
– High-resolution displays with increased field of view and refresh rates
– 3D spatial audio for more realistic soundscapes
Haptic Feedback
– Advanced haptic suits and gloves provide tactile sensations across the body
– Force feedback devices simulate resistance and texture
Olfactory Stimulation
– Scent delivery systems can now produce complex odors and fragrances
– Some devices use chemical cartridges, while others utilize ultrasonic technology
Gustatory Experiences
– Taste simulation remains challenging, but progress has been made
– Electrical and thermal stimulation of the tongue can produce basic taste sensations
Notable Developments
– Meta (formerly Facebook) is working on haptic gloves for their metaverse platform
– Companies like OVR Technology and Aromajoin are developing scent-based VR accessories
– The TASTE+ project aims to simulate flavors through electrical stimulation
Applications Beyond Entertainment
– Medical training and therapy
– Virtual tourism and cultural experiences
– Remote collaboration and social interaction
– Educational simulations of historical events and environments
Challenges and Limitations
– Integration of multiple sensory inputs remains complex
– Miniaturization of sensory devices for comfortable, wearable form factors
– Potential for sensory overload or motion sickness in some users
While we haven’t yet achieved the fully immersive “Virtual Cocoon” described in the original article, significant progress has been made in multi-sensory VR. The focus has shifted from a single all-encompassing device to a combination of specialized peripherals working in tandem with VR headsets.
I’ll wait until version 2, the one that doesn’t squirt any lion flavors into your mouth.
Read More
[1] https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/03/090304091227.htm
[2] https://www.bmj.com/content/365/bmj.l2147
[3] https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0082959
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6213802/
[5] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fda-warns-about-serious-breathing-problems-seizure-and-nerve-pain-medicines-gabapentin-neurontin
[6] https://www.medcentral.com/behavioral-mental/suicide/gabapentin-suicidal-ideation-there-link
[7] https://www.fda.gov/drugs/fda-drug-safety-podcasts/fda-warns-about-serious-breathing-problems-seizure-and-nerve-pain-medicines-gabapentin-neurontin
[8] https://www.fda.gov/safety/medical-product-safety-information/neurontin-gralise-horizant-gabapentin-and-lyrica-lyrica-cr-pregabalin-drug-safety-communication