VR helmet with transmission of sensations to the tongue and lips

History

2022

Created a VR headset that simulates kisses and splashes of dirt on your face

On December 12, 2022, it became known that American researchers have developed a virtual reality (VR) headset that can simulate kisses and splashes of dirt on the face.

The project was implemented by specialists from the Future Interfaces Group team at Carnegie Mellon University: it is a private university and research center located in Pittsburgh (USA). The device can create a feeling of touching the user's face - for example, a kiss on the lips. At the same time, any special parts are not used in the design. The desired effect is achieved thanks to ultrasonic transducers.

| American researchers have developed a VR headset that simulates kisses and splashes of dirt on the face]]

Researchers say most developers focus tactile sensations when immersing themselves in virtual reality on hands. The new system uses a different approach: it allows you to reproduce the sensations that a person in everyday life receives on his face. In addition to kissing, these, for example, can be drops of mud or water during rain. In addition, effects can be created that resemble hitting a web on the face.

The system makes it possible to reproduce sensations such as tapping and continuous vibrations. Moreover, they can be created using arbitrary 3D profiles, imitating a three-dimensional picture. Moreover, similar effects can be felt on the teeth and tongue. Combined with coordinated graphical feedback, the system enhances realism when immersed in VR space. Researchers note that tactile sensations relate to technologies for transmitting and understanding information through touch - in the future, such systems will become more and more important. Similar developments are expected to be applied in the metaverse. The compact array of ultrasonic transducers can be integrated into various wearable devices.^[1]

Announcement of the device

At the end of April 2022, Carnegie Mellon University introduced a virtual reality immersion tool that is equipped with an array of ultrasonic transducers that send acoustic energy to the user's oral cavity. The device creates tactile feedback, and ultrasonic pulses can be sent to simulate touch, pulses, swings and vibrations. The system does not require users to attach anything to their mouths for tactile feedback.

According to the developers, tactile mouth sensations significantly enhance immersion in the game and give a better sense of presence for most. Impulses are transmitted to the mouth area, and can also affect the tongue and teeth if the user opens the mouth. But for at least one user, simulating water with ultrasound proved cognitively dissonant.

A video released in April 2022 by the Future Interfaces Group shows a VR headset with an ultrasonic grille attached for tactile recoil. For example, making their way through the entangled cobwebs, the user will feel the cobwebs touching his face or mouth, and if he opens his mouth in a scream, a virtual spider will jump there. One example includes a video game in which spiders jump on a user's face, making it feel like an arachnid is crawling on their lips. The user can shoot at the spider and feel its guts scatter and enter the oral cavity. In less dramatic scenarios, the system can mimic the process of drinking or smoking, as well as brushing teeth.

Pulses can simulate different types of contact: point touches, vibrations, and movements. At the same time, no additional devices need to be installed in or around the mouth.^[2]

Notes