Can AI develop cravings like a human? A team of Penn State researchers is working on creating an electronic tongue that mimics how taste influences our food choices based on both needs and wants, potentially revolutionizing the way AI processes information.
In human behavior, our physiological and psychological states interact to influence our actions. However, AI systems often lack the ability to incorporate the emotional intelligence aspect of human intelligence. The researchers aimed to bring the emotional side of intelligence to AI, which poses a challenging task for computer engineers.
Eating habits serve as a prime example of emotional intelligence and the interplay between physiological and psychological states. Our sense of taste, known as gustation, allows us to make decisions about what we consume based on flavor preferences. This goes beyond hunger, which is the physiological reason for eating.
When given the choice, people are more likely to choose the foods they enjoy most. For example, even when feeling full, someone may still be tempted by a slice of chocolate cake. This demonstrates that our psychological state influences our food choices, irrespective of our physical satisfaction.
The researchers have developed an electronic tongue that can simulate the taste process in humans. This includes an electronic “tongue” and an “electronic gustatory cortex” made with 2D materials. The tongue consists of tiny graphene-based electronic sensors that can detect gas or chemical molecules. The gustatory cortex uses memtransistors to remember past signals and create a feeding circuit.
The electronic tongue is versatile enough to mimic all five primary taste profiles: sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami. This robotic gustatory system has potential applications in AI-curated diets for weight loss and personalized meal offerings in restaurants. The researchers also aim to expand the electronic tongue’s taste range and develop integrated gustatory chips.
Ultimately, the goal is to apply the concept of gustatory emotional intelligence to other senses like visual, audio, tactile, and olfactory emotional intelligence. By better understanding how the brain works, this technology can be enhanced and refined to replicate human behavior more closely.
But what do you think? Can AI really develop a sense of taste? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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