Exploring the Use of Olfactory Stimuli Towards Reducing Visually Induced Motion Sickness in Virtual Reality

Abstract

Visually Induced Motion Sickness (VIMS) plagues a significant number of individuals who utilize Virtual Reality (VR) systems. Although several solutions have been proposed that aim to reduce the onset of VIMS, a reliable approach for moderating it within VR experiences has not yet been established. Here, we set the initial stage to explore the use of controlled olfactory stimuli towards reducing symptoms associated with VIMS. In this experimental study, participants perceived different olfactory stimuli while experiencing a first-person-view rollercoaster simulation using a VR Head-Mounted Display (HMD). The onsets of VIMS symptoms were analyzed using both the Simulator Sickness Questionnaire (SSQ) and the Fast Motion Sickness Scale (FMS). Notable reductions in overall SSQ and FMS scores suggest that providing a peppermint aroma reduces the severity of VIMS symptoms experienced in VR. Additional anecdotal feedback and potential future studies on using controlled olfactory stimuli to minimize the occurrence of VIMS symptoms are also discussed.