Virtual Reality Cocoon Promises All 6 Senses

Called a Virtual Cocoon, the round-room device provides a far more realistic delivery of virtual experiences via total sensory input. This device positions the occupant in a chair before a nearly 360 degree screen where s/he becomes completely immersed in not only a visual and audio presentation encompassing almost the full view, but also one where the occupant has skin sensations, smells and tastes. _TGDaily

Alright, perhaps I exaggerated by one sense. But a 5-sense VR chamber is impressive enough, even without the ability to see tomorrow's lottery numbers. If the developers of the technology from the Universities of York and Warwick can actually bring a quality product to market within a reasonable time at a reasonable price, the economically downtrodden consumers of Planet Earth may well jump through hoops for a short interval of realistic escape.

The team is working on enhancing the interaction of the five senses, so that they mimic real life more closely. No one sense should be over- or under-stimulated, and while this device is impressive the scientists acknowledge there is much room for improvement. _TGD

The most promising technology for VR is the "utility fog" concept from Josh Hall. But it may be several years yet before that technology is proven safe and convincing. In the meantime, several techniques have been invented to allow someone in VR to walk or run significant distances in a small space, using treadmills, moving floors, or large rotating spheres.

Haptic gloves and suits would allow someone in VR to experience touch and feel, which if convincing could go a long way toward driving the acceptance of VR in the marketplace. Haptics so advanced as to transmit a light "feather touch" from one participant to another via electronic link might be the first step toward the electronic bordello and house of sin. The addition of smell and taste to sight, sound, and touch, might be either a bonus or a turnoff, depending upon the quality of the experience.

The ultimate in VR may come when safe brain interfaces are developed which can bypass the external senses. The ability to create a vivid "waking dream" experience without actually moving, would require technology significantly beyond what today's gaming industry can produce. But at this point, I doubt they will stop trying.