Physiological Aspects of the User's Immersion in the Virtual Reality Environment on the Example of Creating a Hardware-Software Complex for Smell Transmission

Abstract

This article discusses the use of prototypes of various technological devices to use odor sensory channel for higher immersion in virtual reality environments. Based on the results of research conducted by the teachers and students center of Usability and Mixed Reality at ITMO University, a prototype of a device for transmitting odors was developed. The article presents the concept and technological scheme of this device. The developed hardware and software complex consist of special platform based on a microcontroller (Arduino Nano) and a control device. The control device was built on the architecture of ARM, with the possibility of wireless connection. To control the air flow and odor supply from the tanks, it was selected a water pump, connections to the tanks is provided by with the help of special valves with a crane. In addition, for this software and hardware complex, a special three-dimensional location was modeled, as well as the design of the backpack and the scheme for its attachment.