Feel what's happening in virtual reality with this DIY device

Virtual reality has the magical power to transport you, at least visually, to new worlds. X's Peter Sassman hopes to add another meaning to this, by letting you feel what's happening in virtual reality.

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I met Peter at the Midwest RepRap Fest and I had to know what that thing was around his neck. Turns out it's a product he's been working on called Cilia to let you feel what's going on in virtual worlds.

The device uses a set of tiny oil bottles. As each element is triggered in the game engine, a small fan blows on a wick, directing the smells towards your nose.

The concept is interesting, because the immersion you would get from an accurate smell system could be surprisingly high. Currently, the device is limited in the amount of oils you can load into it, so it may be necessary to create a creative blend of scents. Add it to other haptic devices, such as weight simulation, and you'll start to get a fuller picture!

Learn more about this device on Hapticsol.com