This list highlights a collection of technology-based innovations that enhance 5 senses. Examples of sensory innovations include devices that can smell rotting food, or capture 360 degrees worth of sound quality. Hence, these examples of multi-sensory technology show how taste, smell, touch, sight, and sound can be manipulated through such innovations. Importantly, as devices and gadgets become more of a way of life these are some exciting steps forward in science and various other industries.

Artificial noses

Scientists have developed the ultimate “smell test” for rotten food. In fact, the startup company from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology has invented a tiny computer chip that gives machines a sense of smell.
C₂Sense’s technology can detect ethylene even in trace amounts that a human wouldn’t be able to smell, enabling food sellers to spot ripening food before it spreads. Hence, this device can be useful in preventing the negative effects of consuming rotten food. Read more.

Weighted blankets

Weighted blankets work using Deep Touch Pressure or DTP to create a sense of calm and safety for those who feel anxious or overstimulated. Pressure on the body can increase the release of serotonin in the brain. Read more.

The new E- ring

Kerv is a technology company that develops an e-payment technology. The product works like a contactless payments ring that substitutes wallets and debit cards. Hence, users can make payments anywhere in the world that displays the contactless payment symbol without requiring a card, PIN, signature, bank account or a smartphone. Armed with NFC, the smart ring works like a contactless credit card. Read more.

UNLIMITED ELECTRIC GUM

They’ve been working on technology they call “unlimited electric gum,” able to electrically simulate flavour sensations when a person chews a stick of specially created “gum.” They make it possible not only for gum which never loses its flavour but, at least in theory, also open up the possibility of creating any flavour chewing gum you want to sample at that instant. Read more.

The olfactory alarm clock

Why would you hit snooze when the smell of freshly made coffee is travelling to your pillow? Say no more. The Sensorwake Trio allows individuals to choose from a wide variety of smells. These include some examples such as body lotion, coffee, the beach, cut grass, or peppermint to ensure a more pleasurable start to the morning and mind. All it requires, for you to Pop a cartridge into the machine and a fan will circulate the scent at the time you’ve set. Read more.

CONNECTED WITH HEARING AIDS

Although today no device is capable of restoring lost hearing 100%, there are tools that can significantly improve hearing ability, even in a noisy environment. For example, Oticon Opn is a hearing aid that can seamlessly integrate with smartphone devices and enhance the overall sensory experience. Thus one can talk on the phone, listen to music or watch a TV show wirelessly. Read more.

From the above list, let us know what is your favourite Innovations that enhance 5 senses? Moreover, share some of your creative thoughts of potential sensory discoveries that could be explored further.

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Extra reading about STEM: check out our posts on what is stem education and our blog on how to get kids interested in STEM.