Researchers create lollipop-shaped device to simulate taste in VR
Researchers at the City University of Hong Kong have developed a lickable device that can simulate different flavors.
Today's VR technology primarily engages sight and hearing, with touch incorporated to a lesser degree through haptic controllers or vests. In contrast, the simulation of smell and taste remains largely unexplored and the focus of ongoing research.
A group of researchers has unveiled a device the size and shape of a lollipop that produces nine different flavors: sugar, salt, citric acid, cherry, passion fruit, green tea, milk, durian, and grapefruit. By combining this with a visual illusion in virtual reality, the researchers hope to trick the brain successfully into thinking it is tasting the real thing.
The flavors are produced by chemicals embedded in a pocket of agarose gel, writes IEEE Spectrum. When a voltage is applied to the gel, the chemicals are transported to the surface in a liquid that then mixes with saliva on the tongue, just like a real lollipop. If the voltage is increased, the taste gets stronger.
Disadvantages and possible use cases
This approach to flavor production is not new. The innovation lies in the improvement of taste quality and consistency, as well as the portability and weight of the lollipop, which weighs only about 15 grams.
One disadvantage of the current prototype is that it can only be used for one hour. After that, the gel is used up and must be replaced. The research group is working to extend the duration of use and the limited number of flavors.
The researchers envision several use cases: standardized taste tests, similar to a hearing or vision test; online shopping in virtual grocery stores; and mixed reality environments where you can explore the flavors of different foods.
You can access the research paper on the PNAS website, but it is behind a paywall.
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