SMELL SENSING SYSTEM

Abstract

The present application relates to a smell sensing system (100) comprising a smell delivery device (104) for delivering an olfactory output (110). The smell delivery device (104) comprises a delivery channel (3) for receiving a substance (5a) from a canister (5), the substance (5a) configured to produce an olfactory output (114). The smell delivery device (104) also comprises an output component (7) through which the substance (5a) is emitted. The smell delivery device (104) also comprises one or more airflow generating elements (13) configured to generate airflow to transport the substance (5a) from the canister (5) to the output component (7). The smell sensing system (100) also comprises a smell sensing device (102) for detecting the olfactory output (110) delivered by the smell delivery device (104). The smell sensing device (102) comprises at least one gas sensor (31, 32) configured to, in response to the olfactory output (110), generate sensor information (114) corresponding to the olfactory output (110). The smell sensing device (102) is configured to output the sensor information (114) to a processor (106).

Claims

1-137. (canceled)

138. A smell delivery device comprising: a delivery channel for receiving a substance from a canister, the substance configured to produce an olfactory output, such as a smell; an output component through which the substance is emitted; and one or more airflow generating elements configured to generate airflow to transport the substance from the canister to the output component; a flow controller for controlling the flow rate, or concentration, of the substance through the delivery channel to the output component; wherein the flow controller is configured to control the flow rate, or concentration of the substance from the delivery channel to the output component in response to feedback from at least one of: a) sensor configured to sense the flow rate, or concentration of the substance, through the delivery channel; b) an environmental sensor configured to sense environmental conditions; and c) a user feedback device configured to receive an input from a user.

139. The smell delivery device of claim 138, wherein the user feedback device is configured to receive input from the user indicating one or more of: a) whether the olfactory output is at a level the user can/cannot sense; b) the emotional response of the user to the olfactory output; c) the duration, and/or the intensity of the user's perception/sensation of the olfactory output; and d) a comparison between different olfactory outputs.

140. The smell delivery device of claim 139, wherein, when the user feedback device receives input from the user indicating that the user cannot sense the olfactory output, the flow controller is configured to modulate the flow rate.

141. The smell delivery device of claim 138, wherein the environmental sensor is configured to sense at least one of: a) the temperature of the environment, b) the humidity of the environment, c) the pressure of the environment, and d) the amount of/identity of pollutants present in the environment.

142. The smell delivery device of claim 141, wherein the flow controller is configured to modulate the flow rate of the substance, in the event that one of: a) the humidity of the environment or at a location within the smell delivery device is above a predefined threshold; b) the temperature of the environment or at a location within the smell delivery device is above a predefined threshold; or c) the pressure of the environment or at a location within the smell delivery device is above a predefined threshold.

143. The smell delivery device of claim 141, wherein, if the amount of pollutants is above a certain threshold, the smell delivery device is configured to stops the flow of the substance.

144. The smell delivery device of claim 138, wherein the sensor configured to sense the flow rate, or concentration, of the substance is configured to communicate the flow rate, or concentration, measurement to the flow controller, and, when the measured flow rate, or concentration, is different than the intended flow rate, the flow controller is configured to modulate the flow rate until the intended flow rate is reached and stabilised.

145. (canceled)

146. The smell delivery device of claim 138, further comprising a distance sensor to determine the distance of the output component to the location of the user, and wherein as the determined distance increases, the flow controller is configured to modulate the flow rate.

147. The smell delivery device of claim 138, further comprising: a second delivery channel for receiving a second substance from a second canister, the second substance configure to produce a second olfactory output, or alter the olfactory output associated with the first substance; a second output component through which the second substance is emitted; and wherein the flow controller is configured to control the flow rate, or concentration, of the second substance from the second delivery channel to the second output component in response to feedback from at least one of: a) a second sensor positioned in the second delivery channel configured to sense the flow rate, or concentration, of the second substance through the second delivery channel; b) the environmental sensor configured to sense environmental conditions; and c) the user feedback device configured to receive an input from a user.

148-155. (canceled)

156. A method of delivering smell to a user, the method comprising: receiving instructions to emit a flow of a first substance, wherein the substance has an olfactory output, such as a smell, associated therewith; beginning the flow of the first substance at a first flow rate, or concentration; receiving feedback from one or more of: a) a sensor configured to sense the flow rate, or concentration of the substance, through the delivery channel; b) an environmental sensor configured to sense environmental conditions; and c) a user feedback device configured to receive an input from a user; and in response to the feedback: changing the flow rate, or concentration, of the first substance.

157. The method of claim 156, wherein the feedback is from the user feedback device and comprises an indication of at least one of: a) whether the user can sense the olfactory output; b) the duration of the user's perception of the olfactory output; and c) the user's emotional response to the olfactory output.

158. The method of claim 156, wherein the feedback is from the environmental sensor and comprises at least one of: a) an indication of whether the humidity of the environment or at a location within the smell delivery device is above a predefined threshold; b) an indication of whether the temperature of the environment or at a location within the smell delivery device is above a predefined threshold; and c) an indication of whether the pressure of the environment or at a location within the smell delivery device is above a predefined threshold.

159. The method of claim 156, wherein the feedback is from the sensor configured to sense the flow rate, or concentration, of the substance, through the delivery channel, and wherein the feedback comprises an indication that the measured flow rate is different to the intended flow rate, and in response, modulating the flow rate until the intended flow rate is reached and stabilised.

160-162. (canceled)

163. A smell sensing system, comprising: a smell delivery device for delivering an olfactory output, comprising: a delivery channel for receiving a substance from a canister, the substance configured to produce an olfactory output; an output component through which the substance is emitted; and one or more airflow generating elements configured to generate airflow to transport the substance from the canister to the output component; and a smell sensing device for detecting the olfactory output delivered by the smell delivery device, comprising: at least one gas sensor configured to, in response to the olfactory output, generate sensor information corresponding to the olfactory output; wherein the smell sensing device is configured to output the sensor information to a processor.

164. The smell sensing system of claim 163, wherein the sensor information comprises an indication of one or more of: a) presence of the olfactory output; b) an intensity of the olfactory output; c) an identification of the smell or a type of smell associated with the olfactory output; d) a pulse duration of the olfactory output; e) a duration between subsequent pulses of the olfactory output; f) a base line of the olfactory output; and g) whether the olfactory output is static or dynamic.

165. The smell sensing system of claim 163, wherein the smell delivery device is configured to output delivery information to the processor corresponding to the substance emitted.

166. The smell sensing system of claim 165, wherein the delivery information is indicative of one or more of: a) the flow rate or concentration of the substance; b) pressure of a pump of the airflow generating elements of the smell delivery device; c) selection of delivery channels of the smell delivery device; d) selection or degree of opening of valves of the delivery channel of the smell delivery device; e) an identification of the smell or a type of smell; f) a pulse duration of the smell; g) a duration between subsequent pulses of the smell; h) a smell base line; and i) whether the smell is static or dynamic.

167. The smell sensing system of claim 163, wherein the smell delivery device is configured to receive instructions from the processor, and wherein the smell delivery device is configured to, in response to receiving the instructions, adjust the delivery of the olfactory output.

168. The smell sensing system of claim 165, further comprising the processor, and wherein the processor is configured to correlate the sensor information with the delivery information to determine a validation of the delivery of the smell by the smell delivery device.

169. The smell sensing system of claim 163, wherein the smell delivery device comprises: a flow controller for controlling the flow rate, or concentration, of the substance through the delivery channel to the output component; wherein the flow controller is configured to control the flow rate, or concentration of the substance from the delivery channel to the output component in response to feedback from at least one of: a) a sensor configured to sense the flow rate, or concentration of the substance, through the delivery channel; b) an environmental sensor configured to sense environmental conditions; and c) a user feedback device configured to receive an input from a user.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0308] Some details of the present invention, both as to its components and operation, are given in the accompanying drawings.

[0309] FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a first embodiment of a smell delivery device. The smell delivery device shown in FIG. 1 comprises a single air flow channel.

[0310] FIG. 2 shows a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of a smell delivery device. The smell delivery device in FIG. 2 comprises a plurality of air flow channels.

[0311] FIG. 3 shows an external view of an embodiment of a smell delivery device. The smell delivery device of FIG. 3 is shown from a user, or operator perspective, showing only those features visible from the exterior of the smell delivery device.

[0312] FIG. 4 illustrates schematically a cross-sectional view of the smell delivery device of a third embodiment.

[0313] FIG. 5 illustrates a realistic appearance of the internal workings of the air flow system in an exploded view of the smell delivery device from the air input to the output according to a further embodiment.

[0314] FIG. 6 shows a realistic external appearance of the smell delivery device in accordance with the embodiment shown in FIG. 5.

[0315] FIG. 7 illustrates a further schematic of external appearance of the smell delivery device according to a further embodiment. FIG. 7 is based on FIG. 3, but optional external sensors and communication means are further shown. External components are shown, including an input of the power supply, LCD location and example of possible connectivity platforms and a possible location for a distance sensor.

[0316] FIG. 8 illustrates schematically a side-view of the air flow path from an air flow generator(s) to the outputs.

[0317] FIG. 9 shows a block diagram of the adaptive smell delivery system unit. The smell delivery device, user, user feedback, and adaptive system unit are shown. The communication between these units is also shown.

[0318] FIG. 10 shows a block diagram of adaptive smell delivery system unit embedded in a possible cloud-based configuration.

[0319] FIG. 11 shows a system configuration where the delivery device is in a different physical space and connected through the Internet (using a client/server architecture) to a remote computer, as in the cloud or in-premises. This example configuration could be applicable to a numerous Internet-of-Things applications.

[0320] FIG. 12 shows a further system configuration where the delivery device connects directly (via USB port for serial communication, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, RF technologies, etc.) to a device used as orchestrator with other devices in the same physical location (like audio-visual screen, VR sets, haptic devices, light systems, etc.) to achieve a low latency integration and deliver a tight coordinated multisensory experience.

[0321] FIG. 13 shows a further system configuration where the delivery device, as shown in FIG. 10, is used differently in such a way that the orchestrator connects to a remote server through the Internet (to deliver information, obtain instructions, etc.).

[0322] FIG. 14 presents a possible system configuration where the delivery device is connected through the Internet to a remote computer that may be provided by the cloud or by in-premise servers to deliver a general experience that does not require input from the user.

[0323] FIG. 15 shows a block diagram of a further system configuration where the delivery device functions in isolation based on an application running on its own automated delivery device control unit.

[0324] FIG. 16 shows a method of delivering a smell from the smell delivery device.

[0325] FIG. 17 shows a flow diagram illustrating a first example of a process of a smell delivery method.

[0326] FIG. 18 shows a flow diagram illustrating a second example of a process of a smell delivery method.

[0327] FIG. 19 shows a flow diagram illustrating a third example of a process of a smell delivery method.

[0328] FIG. 20 shows a block diagram of an example of an adaptive smell delivery system together with a smell sensing device. The smell delivery device, user, user feedback, and adaptive system unit are shown. The independent unit of a smell sensing device placed in the proximity of the user is also shown. The communication between these units is also shown.

[0329] FIG. 21 shows a block diagram of an example of an adaptive smell delivery system and an independent unit of a smell sensing device embedded in a cloud-based configuration.

[0330] FIG. 22A shows a schematic representation of examples of the various components involved in smell testing or smell training.

[0331] FIG. 22B shows an example smell sensing device attached to glasses.

[0332] FIG. 22C shows an example clip-on smell sensing device.

[0333] FIG. 23 shows a 3D schematic representation of an example smell sensing device comprising a printed PCB, multi-sensing VOC sensors, battery, ASIC, and interface ports.

[0334] FIG. 24A shows the smell transient signal from a PID sensor incorporated in an example smell sensing device.

[0335] FIG. 24B shows the decay of the concentration of the smell as a function of the distance between the smell delivery device and the smell sensing device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0336] There is described a smell delivery device comprising a delivery channel for receiving a substance from a canister, the substance configured to produce an olfactory output, such as a smell, an output component through which the substance is emitted, and one or more airflow generating elements configured to generate airflow to transport the substance from the canister to the output component. A flow controller is configured to control the flow rate, or concentration, of the substance through the delivery channel to the output component. The flow controller is configured to control the flow rate, or concentration of the substance from the delivery channel to the output component in response to feedback from at least one of a sensor configured to sense the flow rate, or concentration of the substance, through the delivery channel, and/or, an environmental sensor configured to sense environmental conditions, and/or a user feedback device configured to receive an input from a user.

[0337] There is herein disclosed a smell delivery device that may be used in medical applications, to test the smell performance of patients or train the smell perception of users. Such smell delivery device according to the main aspect may also be used in applications such as entertainment, or consumer products/services to deliver and control the smell in the ambient surrounding the device.

[0338] This smell delivery device is a hardware solution for accurate and precise administration of smell stimuli or mixtures of such smell stimuli, with low latency and no-cross contamination between stimuli.

[0339] FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of the invention. In particular, FIG. 1 shows a working embodiment in which just a single canister 5 is present, and therefore there is a single air flow pathway. The smell delivery device comprises a canister 5 containing a substance 5a, a delivery channel 3, a sensor 15 to measure the flow rate/concentration of the substance in the delivery channel 3, an output component 7, a flow generator 13, a flow controller 11, an air inlet 9, an air filter 20, an environmental sensor 17, and a user feedback device 19.

[0340] Air is drawn into the air inlet 9 by the flow generator 13. In this embodiment the air flow then travels through the air filter 20, the canister 5, the delivery channel 3 and then out through the output component 7. The sensor 15 configured to measure the flow rate/concentration of the substance in the delivery channel 3 is positioned within the delivery channel 3. The environmental sensor 17 is positioned on the exterior of the smell delivery device. The user feedback device 19 is positioned anywhere on the smell delivery device. The sensor 15 configured to measure the flow rate/concentration in the delivery channel, the environmental sensor 17, and the user feedback device 19 are all configured to communicate with the flow controller 11. The air flow controller 11 controls the flow rate created by the air flow generator 13. The user feedback device 19 is configured to receive an input from a user.

[0341] The air inlet 9 forms an entrance for air to enter the smell delivery device 1. Air is drawn into the air inlet by the flow generator 13. This brings airflow into the device 1. The air flow, after being brought through the air inlet 9, is directed to an air filter 20. This removes impurities from the air, in order to minimise contamination.

[0342] The substance 5a is then added to the purified air flow. In this embodiment the canister 5 comprises polymer beads saturated with the substance 5a. In this embodiment air flow is directed through the canister 5 such that the air makes contact with polymer beads, such that some of the substance 5a is drawn into the air flow. The amount of the substance that is drawn into the air flow is predictable based on the strength of the air flow.

[0343] The air flow comprising the substance 5a then travels through the delivery channel 3, and out of the output component 7. The user is positioned at/near the output component, and then may experience an olfactory output associated with the substance 5a, such as a smell.

[0344] As the air flow travels through the delivery channel 3 the sensor 15 measures the flow rate/concentration of the substance in the delivery channel 3. This is then compared with a target flow rate/concentration by the flow controller 11. If the measured flow rate/concentration is lower than the target the flow controller 11 will instruct the flow generator 13 to increase the air flow. If the measured flow rate/concentration is above the target flow rate the flow controller 11 will instruct the flow generator 13 to decrease the air flow. In this manner the air flow is modulated and a precise flow rate of the substance is maintained.

[0345] Additionally, the smell delivery device 1 comprises the environmental sensor 17. The environmental sensor 17 in this embodiment is configured to measure the humidity and temperature of the environment. During usage if one of these parameters changes the flow controller 11 instructs the flow generator 13 to modulate the flow rate. For example, in some embodiments if the humidity increases then the flow rate may be modulated by increasing the flow rate, and so the flow rate/concentration of the substance.

[0346] Additionally, the smell delivery device 1 comprises the user feedback device 19. As the device is in operation the user provides feedback. For example, in this embodiment the device 1 is used to determine the concentration of a substance at which a user can perceive its smell. The user feedback is therefore an indication of whether the smell is perceived. Starting from a low concentration/flow rate the user provides feedback indicating that they cannot perceive the smell. The flow controller 11 then instructs the flow generator 13 to modulate the flow rate/concentration of the substance to increase the flow rate/concentration. The flow rate/concentration then iteratively reaches the tipping point at which the smell is perceived by the user. In other embodiments this may be reversed with the flow rate/concentration starting at a high level and being reduced until the user can no longer smell the substance.

[0347] It is noted that the canister 5 may be a replaceable element, and therefore the smell delivery device 1 may be manufactured without a canister 5 present. The canister 5 itself may comprise a storage volume storing a substance, wherein the substance is associated with an olfactory output. The canister 5 is configured to be received by the smell delivery device 1, and wherein once received within the smell delivery device 1, the canister 5 is configured to emit the substance into the delivery channel 5. For example, the canisters 5 may be spring-loaded into position such that they can be removed and replaced with a single click. Alternatively, the canisters 5 may slot into place.

[0348] It is noted that FIG. 1 merely shows one example of a working embodiment. Certain features described above are not essential. For example, in some applications the air filter 20 is not needed as air drawn in through the air inlet is of sufficient purity. Further, the air inlet 9 itself may be inessential. Some embodiments may instead comprise a compressed air store. The flow controller 11 in such embodiments may control the flow of compressed air from the compressed air store. It is also noted that it is only essential that one sensor of: the user feedback device 19, the environmental sensor 17, or the sensor 15 configured to measure the flow rate/concentration of the substance in the delivery channel, is present. It is also noted that the canister 5 may be a replaceable element. Therefore, when manufacturing and selling a smell delivery device the canister 5 may not be present in the smell delivery device.

[0349] The flow generator 13 may optionally be a pump, or a valve. For example, the flow generator 9 may comprise a proportional valve such as a piezoelectric or solenoid based proportional valve. Alternatively, the flow generator may comprise a pump, wherein the power of the pump may be controlled. For example, the pump may comprise a piezoelectric, piston or diaphragm type pump in which the power of the pump is controllable.

[0350] The environmental sensor 17 may comprise any sensor that measures a property of the local environment. For example, the environmental sensor may comprise a thermometer to measure a temperature, a barometer to measure pressure, a hygrometer to measure humidity, or a gas sensor to identify background contamination in the environment. In the case of the gas sensor, the system may then shutdown if the contamination level was too high, for example above a pre-set threshold.

[0351] The sensors 15, 17, 19 may sample at a constant rate. Alternatively, if the sensors detect a measurement close to a threshold they may increase the sampling rate to ensure any breach of a pre-set threshold is detected quickly.

[0352] The sensor 15 may be configured to measure the flow rate/concentration of the substance in the delivery channel may either comprise a flow rate sensor or a concentration sensor. For example, the sensor 15 may comprise a gas sensor. Gas sensor types could include metal oxide, photo-ionisation, mass spectrometry, ion-mobility spectrometry and electro-chemical. An e-nose could be used to identify different scent types. Alternatively, a pressure sensor, or a stress/strain gauge may be used to monitor the flow rate through the delivery channel. Monitoring the flow rate of the substance through the delivery channel 3 may comprise monitoring the total flow rate through the delivery channel 3, as this is indicative of the flow rate of the substance through the delivery channel. Alternatively, or additionally, the mass of the substance contained within the canister 5 may be monitored and this may be used to determine the flow rate of the substance through the delivery channel 3.

[0353] The canister 5 may be any canister 5 containing a substance 5a that provides an olfactory output. The example shown illustrates polymer beads saturated with a substance 5a, however other configurations may be used. For example, the canister 5 may contain a liquid, powder, or gel comprising the substance 5a. In the case of a powder the substance 5a may be carried by the air flow. In alternative embodiments the substance 5a may be vaporised by a valve and introduced into the air flow.

[0354] FIG. 2 shows an embodiment in which further canisters are present. The communication between the sensors and the flow controller 11 are not shown in FIG. 2 for simplicity. The smell delivery device of FIG. 2 comprises a plurality of canisters 5, each containing a substance 5a, a delivery channel 3 associated with each canister 5, a sensor 15 to measure the flow rate/concentration of the substance in each delivery channel, a manifold element 22, and a plurality of valves 24, wherein each valve is associated with a respective canister 5, an output component 7, a flow generator 13, a flow controller 11, an air inlet 9, an air filter 20a, 20b, an environmental sensor 17, and a user feedback device 19. A further valve can control the supply of clean air to dilute the concentration of the substance (this is an optional feature).

[0355] Air is drawn into the air inlet 9 by the flow generator 13. In this embodiment the air flow then travels through the air filter 20a. The air then passes through the flow generator 13 and is then directed towards a manifold 22. A manifold 22 is a pipe or chamber with several openings. In this case each opening is controlled by the flow controller 11 and may constitute a valve 24. The valves 24 are opened dependent upon where the flow controller 11 determines the air flow should be directed. These valves may be simple on-off types, or proportional valves to individually control the flow rate in each channel. Each valve 24 is associated with a respective canister 5, such that, when open, air passing through a first valve 24 will travel through a first canister 5, and air travelling through a second valve 24 will travel through a second canister 5, etc. Each canister 5 has associated with it its own delivery channel 3. Therefore, air travelling through a canister 5 will travel through its associated delivery channel 3. This ensures that the substances 5a stored in each canister are isolated from one another. The delivery channels 3 may, as shown in FIG. 2, meet shortly before the output component 7. This may enable substances, and therefore their associated smells, to be mixed together, in order to form new smells. It may also disguise a change in the canister being used, so that the user cannot determine that the smell has changed without actually perceiving the change (the user may otherwise notice that air if being output from a new output, and associate that with a changing smell). The delivery channels may be separate, and each have separate output components 7. These components may then be joined by an output extension 26. For example, an output extension may terminate in a mask to be work by the patient so that the mask is replaceable after each use to increase hygiene, which also avoiding bias in perception by the user. The substances emitted may then be combined in the output extension 26 in such embodiments. The environmental sensor 17 is positioned on the exterior of the smell delivery device 1. The user feedback device 19 is positioned anywhere on/in the smell delivery device (and is not shown in FIG. 2 for this reason). A sensor 15 configured to measure the flow rate/concentration of a substance through a delivery channel is located in each delivery channel 3. The sensor 15 configured to measure the flow rate/concentration in the delivery channel, the environmental sensor 17, and the user feedback device 19 are all configured to communicate with the flow controller. The air flow controller 11 controls the flow rate created by the air flow generator 13. Alternatively, the air flow generated may be constant, and it may be the position of the valve 24 in the manifold 22 that is controlled by the flow controller 11, and enables the flow rate through the delivery channels 3 to be controlled. The user feedback device 19 is configured to receive an input from a user.

[0356] It is noted that a single flow generator 13 may be used to produce flow from a plurality of delivery channels. However, each delivery channel 3 may also have associated with it a flow generator 13. Similarly, a single flow controller 11 may be used, or alternatively each delivery channel 3 may have associated with it an individual flow controller 11.

[0357] Each canister 5 may contain a substance 5a. In some embodiments these substances 5a may differ from one another. In another embodiment one or more of the canisters 5 may be empty such that only air is emitted by the associated delivery channel 3 (this is shown by the lack of a canister associated with the fourth valve in FIG. 2). This may allow the concentration of the substance 5a emitted by the smell delivery device 1 to be further modulated. For example, in one embodiment a first delivery channel 3 may be emitting a first substance 5a. It may be advantageous to create a square shaped concentration graph over time of the output of this substance 5a. By switching the output of a second delivery channel 3, emitting only air, off and on this reduces the concentration of the substance 5a when the second delivery channel is on, and does not affect the concentration when the second delivery channel is off. Therefore, a square shaped emission curve may be generated.

[0358] FIG. 2 also illustrates possible positions where the main system sensors may be located, as for example along the air flow path or in the canister array or external to the delivery enclosure. The device may sense information though at least a pressure sensor 26 that reads the flow generator 13 (or pump) pressure and controls the flow through one or multiple delivery channels 3. There may also be a temperature and humidity sensor 17, air flow sensors 15, and a gas detector sensor 27. The gas sensor could be a non-selective type (e.g. photoionization or metal oxide sensor) which would respond to a range of odours. Alternatively, a selective gas sensor could be used (e.g. an e-nose or ion-mass spectrometer) to discriminate between odour types. The specifications and types of the sensors are defined by the application requirements however, pressure and temperature sensors may be particularly advantageous as part of the feedback loop system. The feedback loop system may be part of the delivery device control unit for modulating and controlling the hardware components illustrated in FIG. 2 and FIG. 7 for the delivery device control unit two main systems.

[0359] The sensors for characterization of the chemical substances used in the cartridges may be recording data to compute the smell delivery parameters for an optimal application performance. The type of sensor for such a chemical characterization may be of different types determined by the application requirements, such sensor could be gas sensors or embedded PID (photoionization detector) or odour sensors.

[0360] An array of various sensors or free-located inside and outside the delivery device 1 various types may be included inside the smell delivery device, in different locations. The specific type and number of sensors to integrate might be determined through considering key factors such as sensitivity range, stability, response time, sample frequencies, and durability in relation to the specific application requirements.

[0361] Monitoring the consumption performance and the status of the chemical substances in the cartridges may be advantageous. Such monitoring may be performed by at least one weight sensor 28 located in each of the cartridges 5, as illustrated in FIG. 2. The weight sensors 28 could be of different types, and may for example comprise a strain gauge or a capacitance sensor or a hydraulic sensor, or a pneumatic sensor, which could detect changes within a physical force, pressure or weight, and produces an output that is comparative to the physical stimulus. The types and specifications of the weight sensors 28 could be determined by the nature the chemical substances, liquid, gel or powder, and the application requirements. Alternatively, the dielectric properties of the chemical substances present in the cartridges could be sensed, through electrodes located in the cartridges' walls, to indicate changes in the usage of the chemical compounds over time.

[0362] FIG. 3 shows a schematic external view of an embodiment of a smell delivery device. This is the view that a user, or operator may have of the device. FIG. 3 shows an air input 9 into the smell delivery device 1 and the output component 7 for emitting an air flow transporting the chemical substances (i.e., smell stimuli). The output air flow may contain substances from one or more canisters 5, and these substance may be in different chemical states (i.e., liquid, powder, gel etc.). The smell stimuli are transported from the containers (e.g., bottle or cartridges) housing the chemical substance to the air output location 7. The walls of the enclosure 30 are also shown.

[0363] FIG. 4 illustrates schematically a cross-sectional view of the smell delivery device according to a possible embodiment. FIG. 4 shows the possible locations and specifications of the different sensors 15, 17, 19, 28 which is determined by the different requirements applications: an enclosure 30, which may be produced of possible different materials (e.g., plastic, aluminium), with at least one hole comprising an air inlet 9 to allow external air to be input into the system 1. The delivery device 1 presented in the present disclosure may have different shapes and dimensions. FIG. 4 also shows air input 1, the enclosure surrounding the device 30, canisters 5, a first filter 20a, and a second filter 20b, a first electronic control unit 10, and a second electronic control unit 8 (these may instead be replaced by a single flow controller 11), a flow generator such as a pump 13, a fan 32, a valve 24, a pressure sensor 15, an environmental sensor 17 configured to measure temperature and humidity, a weight sensor 28 to measure the weight of the canisters, and a manifold 22. The enclosure 30 may be used to surround the internal working of the device, and to act as a casing.

[0364] The canisters 5 are shown schematically in FIG. 4. The first filter 20a and second filter 20b may comprise carbon filters, and are positioned before and after the pump 13, in order to purify and remove any detritus from the incoming air. The pump is a form of a flow generator 13, and other flow generators may alternately be used. The fan 32 is configured to prevent the other components of the device, such as the flow generator 13, or the valves 24 from overheating. The pressure sensors 15 detect pressure on entry to the manifold 22 and in the delivery channels, whilst valve 24 determines whether air in the manifold is transferred to cartridge 5. The outlet is not shown in FIG. 4. The air flow path of FIG. 4 is substantively the same as that shown in FIG. 2.

[0365] A smell delivery device 1 may be defined as an enclosure 30 with air intake 9 from the environment to allow flow generation. The flow generated is the fundamental carrier of the chemical substances. This flow should be directed at least to one valve 24 connected with one cartridge 5 with at least one air output component for smell stimuli 7. The air output component 7 allows the carrier to deliver the smell (chemical substances/odorants) to a person's nose, or within a person's head space. The smell output 7 may have a number of different shapes and dimensions, which would define the speed and spatial resolution, according to the users' specified or adapted distance. For example, a circular smell output component 7 with a diameter of 1 mm would generate a high-speed delivery with an accurate spatial resolution and dispersion emulating a conical trajectory. The smell output connotations may be functional in relation to the optimal perceptual point and the user' distance and position, so that the users' nose or head space may be reached by the carrier with the smell stimuli. These distances may be calculated in function of contextual and environmental factors. As such the timing of the smell delivery, the air flow, and the pressure of the air flow, could be calculated in relation and adapted to suit the environment and chemical substances used. The delivery range may vary between 10-45 cm, which is defined by the selected delivery device parameters and the type of flow generator 13.

[0366] The air output 7 for smell stimuli could be a supra-perceptual threshold stimulus (i.e., the smell stimulus is above the weakest stimulus perceivable) or sub-perceptual threshold stimulus (i.e., the smell stimulus is below the weakest stimulus perceivable). The perceptual threshold stimuli may be defined by application requirements and computed within by a processor. The processor may be located in a separate device, such as an adaptive system unit in communication with the smell delivery system.

[0367] Two custom control units (PCB-printed circuit boards) are shown, one electronic unit control 10 may drive the pump's behaviour and activate at least one fan 32, with inputs from a least a differential/gauge pressure or flow sensors which is attached directly or through a bypass to the at least one channel, and a temperature sensor and humidity sensor. A second electronic unit control 8 may receive and analyse the outputs from the sensors may drive the valve activity, with inputs from the user feedback device (e.g. answers or preferences) chemical substances information for the data stored in the smell application software (see FIG. 7), distance sensor 34 and weight sensors 28. The possibility of data storing may be local on an internally accessible storage card and/or remote in a cloud-database storage, in which single user profiles may be generated and adapted for different Smell Applications Software (APP), as presented in FIG. 10.

[0368] FIG. 5 shows a further embodiment of the smell delivery device (in cross-section) comprising: two parallel arrays of each 12 cartridges 5 with a 3 mm connector to a manifold 22 and the 24 solenoid valves respectively 24, within an aluminium and plastic enclosure 30 of specific dimensions 25 cm length, 18 cm width, 15 cm height and 7 kg weight, air input, a flow controller 11, two carbon filters (20a, 20b), a pump or flow generator 13, a fan 32 and an air input 9. FIG. 5 shows a realistic view of how one embodiment of the present invention may appear. The small size, and portable nature of the device 1 is particularly advantageous. This is achieved by using the arrangement shown in FIG. 5. In particular, the air flow is configured to bend round through the device 1, such that the size of the smell delivery device may be reduced, without reducing the length of the air flow path. The canisters 5 are grouped together in a regular array to save space, and to efficiently connect the manifold 22 with the canisters, via valves 24. A single manifold is shown with two banks of valves 24 attached to further save space, and maximise the use of the internal area of the manifold 22.

[0369] FIG. 6 shows a realistic external view of the smell delivery device presented in FIG. 5. In this example the enclosure 30 is formed from plastic material with structural aluminium inserts comprising: a possible frame for a display 42 (such as an LED display), an output extension 26 removable and exchangeable through a magnetic knob 40 and an output component 7, both with possibility to be exchanged by the means of an ad hoc key 38. The magnetic knob 40 may be configured to anchor the output extension in place, whilst also allowing for easy removal of the output extension when required. The smell output component 7 is shown with 24 different delivery channels 3, one for each canister 5 shown. The output extension 26 may be attached and removed as required by the user. The output extension may enable smells emitted by the 24 delivery channels 3 shown at the output component to be mixed together before being perceived by the user. In this manner new smells may be created or diluted through combining those associated with the substances in each canister. The ad hoc key may enable the output extension to be locked in place. The ad hoc key may be a screw like member, or alternatively may simply comprise a mount.

[0370] FIG. 7 shows a schematic diagram of an external view of a smell delivery device 1. The enclosure 30, air input 9, and canisters 5, and output component 7 are shown (as also seen in FIG. 3). However, additionally, elements 42, 44 and 46 are shown. These are optional features comprising a display 42 such as an LED or LCD display, an external power supply unit 46, and a connection element 44. The external power supply unit 46, may for example be a replaceable battery unit, or may comprise a plug socket. The display 42 may show the amount of charge remaining, or the time the device can be used for before a next charge. Any errors may also be shown on a display unit 42. Alternatively results of any smell test may be shown on the display. The connection element 44 may be used to enable the smell delivery device to be connected with other devices. The connection element 44 may be a physical connection, such as a USB port. Alternatively the smell delivery device may be connected wirelessly using known standards such as Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi, or other RF technology.

[0371] A distance sensor may be used to infer the location of the user 48, therefore inputting the information to the control unit for the adjustment of the delivery parameters accordingly. The type of distance sensors 4 would be defined in relation to the target application(s). These sensors may be an optical distance sensor (LIDAR), a CO2 sensor or ultrasonic sensor. The CO2 type sensor, for instance, may allow the number of people in the vicinity of the device to be estimated through detection of the CO2 level.

[0372] FIG. 8 schematically illustrates the air flow path from the valves 24 into the sealed cartridges 5 through single isolated channels 3 leading to the smell output component 7. Alternately, the smell output may have an attachable output extension 26 of a various length, for example 45 cm via PTFE-F piping wrapped in a cover of different material (e.g. plastic, aluminium, cord). For example, with a single channel of a 4 mm diameter, 2.4 mm bore size, the extension may be connected with a 3D printed-support or another type of material and design. The extension 26 may have a function to contain and wrap the single channel, from one to many, or may be an individual extension of single PTFE-F piping. The single piping extension could have the possibility to have diversified locations for the delivery device smell output. For example, with the single piping setup, the delivery range could cover long distances, more than 2 m. The single piping extension may be connected to a 3D printed-support for user's head space or nose-directed diffusion.

[0373] The extension length and type may be defined by the applications requirements and scenarios.

[0374] The air input intake 9 may be immediately passing through a first of two coalescing carbon air-filters 20a, 20b to remove external environmental particles and odours. The device may have a generic flow generator 13 such as a pump to produce and control the air flow sourcing the filtered air. The flow generator may be of different types, an axial piston, membrane pump or micro-pump or piezoelectric pump, the different applications and implementation requirements would define the type of flow generator most suitable.

[0375] The air flow generated by the pump system might be conveyed through a sealed pipe system to at least one two-way valves 24 such as solenoid valves or piezoelectric type valves, after being carbon filtered to remove additional particles and odours from the flow generator 13 by the means of a second coalescing filter 20b. The air flowing generated after the second filter would produce a breathable air flow that may be odourless with absence of particles.

[0376] Multiple solenoid valves might be served from the same pump system though a manifold structure 22 with a modular access points for several one-way valves 24. Each valve-type solenoid may be fully closed or accurately opened and regulated to modulate the direction and speed of the flow towards each single cartridge 5. The device may have at least one or more cartridges 5, each of them with a weight sensor 28 to monitor changes in mass. FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrates schematically a schematic of the air flow path from the intake input to the smell output, presenting the main components involved in this process.

[0377] The delivery device components and the flow generator may overheat, hence at least one axial fan (32, FIG. 4) can be used to reduce the internal temperature. The fan behaviour may be defined by the temperature sensor and be controlled by the delivery device control unit (see FIG. 7). The behaviour of the fan may be simplistically activated in connection of an internal temperature range (above 40 C.) and external range (above 38C) or in function of the time of activation or the number of consecutive deliveries of smell stimuli.

[0378] The air flow may be measured with an external flow meter (1 SLM-10 SLM, where SLM means Standard Litre per Minute) that could be a digital type as a clamp-on ultrasonic flow meter or air speed sensor or embedded in smell delivery device with a flow sensor 15 or air speed sensor. The flow sensor may have a resolution of 50 SCCM (where SCCM means standard cubic centimetre per minute). The air flow may be modulated through the pump or solenoid behaviours, with accuracy or automated feedback loop control. The air flow for each channel 3 may range between 0.2 L/min to 6 L/min, with an air flow target range from the flow generator of 0-8 SLM, the range may be determinate specifically for the application scenarios driving the definition of the flow generator types.

[0379] The overall delivery device might have a low audible mechanical noise for bias avoidance of the user, such as when used in perceptual studies or health applications. The audible noise may vary in function of the flow type generators, defined and adapted to application requirements. In the case of the healthcare applications, as smell test or training, the noise would be below 40 dB using a diaphragm pump type while for entertainment the noise level requirement can be less prominent and therefore a piston pump could be applicable. In entertainment applications, the delivery device may be positioned away from the users or in a acoustically treated box.

[0380] The device may have at least 1 delivery output connected with one canister (at least with a volume of 5 mL) that could be made from various non-porous and odourless material, containing a chemical substance in different forms. The chemical substance may be in a different form in function of the application scopes and requirements, such as in form of odorant-saturated plastic polymer beads (see FIG. 1, 3a), liquids, gel or powder. Each cartridge may have at least one channel that contains at least one pipe. Each delivery output could have individually controllable air channels connected to scent cartridges. All channels and piping system should be made preferably of various non-porous and odourless material and non-absorbent material such as PTFE-F. The device may have at least one chemical substance container directing the flow with at least one chemical substance to a head space or to a nozzle comprising at least one smell output.

[0381] A various non-porous, non-absorbent and odourless material nozzle or smell output is in communication with at least one channel connected to at least one chemical substance container.

[0382] The cartridge may have a user-friendly slot in/out with a modular design solution from 1 unit to n-units. The device may have no cross-contamination between channels and requires perfect sealing, avoiding air flow drops or smell leakage.

[0383] FIG. 9 shows a block diagram of the adaptive smell delivery system unit. The smell delivery device, user, user feedback, and adaptive system unit are shown. The communication between these units is also shown.

[0384] An adaptive system unit is provided which communicates with the smell delivery device (which is described above) via a communication unit configured to communicate with the smell delivery device. The adaptive system unit further comprises an input unit configured to receive instructions from a user. The adaptive system unit may process these user instructions to determine instructions to send to the smell delivery device regarding changes to the flow rate. Alternatively, the adaptive system unit may send the user instructions directly to the smell delivery device. The smell delivery device may then determine any changes required to the flow rate from the user instructions itself. Either way, the communication unit sends information to the smell delivery device (either in the form of the user instructions, or direct instructions to the smell delivery device).

[0385] The smell delivery device emits smell stimuli in accordance with the instructions determined from the user instructions. These stimuli are emitted in the vicinity of the user. The user then provides further feedback to the adaptive system unit as shown in FIG. 9. This feedback constitutes further user instructions. The process shown in FIG. 9 may therefore be iterative.

[0386] Additionally, any errors or other information may be sent by the smell delivery device to the adaptive system unit. These errors may trigger a further instruction, such as an instruction to shut down or stop the process.

[0387] The adaptive system unit may be independent, as in FIG. 8, or incorporated into the smell delivery device, as shown in FIG. 14.

[0388] The type of adaptive system unit disclosed incorporates a smell application which adaptively controls and instructs the smell delivery through a system sensing and computing environmental, chemicals and perceptual factors.

[0389] FIG. 9 presents a block diagram of the overall adaptive system architecture which may integrate and store input from a user through an input unit relative to one or more smell applications (e.g., smell training, smell testing, audio-visual contents, Virtual Reality or Augmented Reality or Mixed Reality implementations) with one or more local and/or distributed delivery devices adapting the delivery parameters and in function of the user's active or indirect input through sensory information.

[0390] The overall system may comprise hardware components including the smell delivery device. The smell delivery device may be as described above. Alternatively, or in addition, the smell delivery device may be composed of at least a flow controller, optionally in the form of an electronic unit control, and one flow generator, such as a module of a pump-valve (or other forms of actuators), a canister with a delivery channel and at least one sensor (e.g., a sensor to determine flow rate through the delivery channel, an environmental sensor, or a user feedback device). The electronic control unit may contain a microcontroller or a microprocessor or a state-machine circuit able to interface with the electronic unit, analyse the signal from the at least one sensor and control the signal to the valve.

[0391] The control unit may drive the sensing and modulating of the various delivery parameters (e.g. frequency, intensity, activation channels, user distance adjustment etc.). The flow generator system and the solenoid valves may have the advantage of being able to deliver with a consistent and stable air flow across one or several channels replicating identical stimuli over time, adjustable to user's viabilities, chemical substance characteristics and environmental factors as such relative location. The adaptability may be determined by users' information and inputs and the synchronized sensors inputs. The sensor inputs may represent a security control feedback of behaviour of the overall system, allowing the detection of errors or malfunctions.

[0392] The device may be a portable version by inclusion of a battery and power management technology or non-portable with an external power supply. The external power supply may for example be 12V. The different sensors integrated in the system may have different power consumptions, for example the air flow sensors may have continuous power consumption for flow sensors, which may be less than 10 mW. The total power consumption of the device is preferably in the range of 1-2 A at 12V (12-24 W), however, the system may have low-powered electronics in other embodiments, such as those designed for the portable use.

[0393] As shown in other Figures (such as FIG. 7) the smell delivery system may include a power input, a connectivity input and in some embodiments a display, such as an LED or LCD display. A display may be used to communicate the basic status of the smell delivery device.

[0394] To explain the functionalities and methods of the adaptive system, FIG. 9 presents a block diagram of the overall components. The user interface, the APP data and the user stored profile are components common to the Smell Application Software (named APP), while each APP may have a proprietary coordinator component with the application logic in it.

[0395] In the majority of the possible applications and the APP implementations a perceptual profile of the users may be inferred by the device. In this particular example a smell stimulus may be tailored to user's perception threshold level (e.g., in smell training or a smell test), the application logic coordinates the delivery of smell stimuli by the delivery device and a separate interaction with the user by questions and answers related to that smell stimuli. The APP may be interacting with a user through an input unit or by receiving data indicative of user's biofeedback (such as heartrate, skin conductance etc.), presenting the questions and answers graphically or in any other modality to capture the users' response to perception features and personal information. This is a dynamic process where the questions of the user are adapted to the user's answers which are translated by the coordinator in delivery instructions. The control unit inside the device may adjust the delivery stimuli to the dynamic process expressed in delivery instructions. Likewise, the control unit integrates the input for the sensors and sends them back to the APP relative to the state-machine feedback (e.g. errors). The control unit may coordinate the mechanical and software components to adjust the delivery parameters with the algorithm driving the sensors.

[0396] The overall APP may be located in a device (e.g., computer system, mobile, tablet computer), as presented in FIG. 9 or be deployed in a cloud-infrastructure, as presented in FIGS. 10, 11, 13, and 14. In the case of a cloud-based APP, the information provided by the user as well as their profiles for later use with other APPs, could be stored in the cloud with user access or for agreed third party use. For instance, the digital records for smell training performances and preference or smell testing scores could be accessible by single users or healthcare professionals or relevant stakeholders (e.g., GPs, Hospitals, Clinics, etc.). The smell delivery device may contain multiple connectivity mechanisms, including Bluetooth, ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi, RF technologies to directly or indirectly connect with external devices and systems.

[0397] FIG. 10 shows a block diagram of adaptive smell delivery system unit embedded in a cloud-based configuration. The adaptive system unit in this example is therefore a virtual machine, rather than a real one. The user provides their instructions through answering questions posed to them. This feedback is communicated to the cloud infrastructure. The cloud infrastructure then communicates with the smell delivery device. The cloud infrastructure may perform a method, using the user's feedback, or perception, or biofeedback, to determine instructions to provide to the smell delivery device. The smell delivery device may send error indications, or feedback to the cloud infrastructure.

[0398] In this embodiment the user may provide feedback into an external device, such as a tablet, that is connected to the cloud infrastructure.

[0399] To support multiple use applications the delivery device may be integrated in a variety of settings, interacting with other devices (computers, smartphones, tables, PDA, haptic device, VR headset, etc.) and being guided by different software applications that may be deployed in one or more of those devices. In order to communicate with those devices, the smell delivery device may contain multiple connectivity mechanisms, including Bluetooth, ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi, and/or RF technologies. One or multiple smell delivery device may be used in the same applications or by different applications run synchronously or not, according to all the alternative system configurations as below presented in detail.

[0400] Depending on the use case applications, the smell delivery device may advantageously, for instance, have a low latency integration with other devices presented in the same physical space or there may be distributed delivery devices that need to update a remote computer in the cloud with collected information from users in multiple locations.

[0401] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure related to the adaptive unit there are various types of embodiment integration configurations provided. We describe as examples here possible integration settings for the system. The smell delivery device connects directly (via USB port for serial communication, Bluetooth, Wi-fi, RF technologies, etc.) to other general devices (computer, mobile, tablet, etc.) located in the same physical space, as presented in FIG. 8.

[0402] FIG. 11 shows a system configuration where the delivery device is in a different physical space and connected through the Internet (using a client/server architecture) to a remote computer, as in a cloud infrastructure, or a physical machine. This example of configuration could be applicable to a numerous Internet-of-Things applications.

[0403] The smell delivery device connects through Internet (using a client/server architecture) to a remote computer, as in the cloud or in-premises. That remote computer may connect to a second device (computer, mobile, tablet, etc.) co-located with the smell delivery device, which may be used as the user interface. FIG. 11 presents an example of a cloud-based infrastructure with an APP), that may use cloud-storage to save information relative to user stored profile data, APP data, usage license, etc. The APP may communicate with the smell delivery device through a communication module using a proprietary protocol. In the smell delivery device a counter-part to this module, DD client, could take care of the communication with the remote computer and could interact with the control unit (FIG. 11). The APP and the DD client are two modules to interpret communication, one sitting in the sever and one in the smell delivery device to allow interchange protocols, in order to enable communication between the server and the smell delivery device. This example of configuration could be applicable to a numerous Internet-of-Things (IoT) applications or devices.

[0404] FIG. 12 shows a further system configuration where the delivery device connects directly (via USB port for serial communication, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, RF technologies, etc.) to a device used as orchestrator with other devices in the same physical location (like audio-visual screen, VR sets, haptic devices, light systems, etc.) to achieve a low latency integration and deliver a tight coordinated multisensory experience.

[0405] The smell delivery device connects directly (via USB port for serial communication, Bluetooth, Wi-fi, RF technologies, etc) to a central device used to control other device. For example, the central device may interact with and control other devices in the same physical location (like audio-visual screen, VR sets, haptic devices, light systems, etc.) to achieve a low latency integration and deliver a coordinated multisensory experience. FIG. 12 represents a diagram block with an example of the main components.

[0406] FIG. 13 shows a further system configuration where the delivery device, as shown in FIG. 10, is used differently in such a way that the central device connects to a remote server through the Internet (to deliver information, obtain instructions, etc.).

[0407] This configuration is the same as the previous configuration presented in FIG. 12 above with the difference that the central device connects to a remote server through the Internet (to deliver information, obtain instructions, etc.). The components are shown in FIG. 13. This example of configuration could be applicable to a numerous Internet-of-Things (IoT) applications or devices.

[0408] FIG. 14 presents a possible system configuration where the delivery device is connected through the Internet to a remote computer that may be provided by the cloud or by in-premise servers to deliver a general experience that does not require input from the user.

[0409] The smell delivery device connects through the Internet to a remote computer that can live in the cloud or in-premise servers to deliver a general experience that does not require input from the user or retrieval information from stored user profile or APP information. FIG. 14 represents a diagram block with an example of the main components.

[0410] FIG. 15 shows a block diagram of a further system configuration where the delivery device functions in isolation based on an application running on its own automated delivery device control unit. Therefore, in FIG. 15 the smell delivery device does not receive any feedback from the user, and instead runs a pre-set program. This may be particularly useful in use cases in the entertainment industry. For example, virtual reality devices may encompass the smell delivery device in order for all of the human senses to be stimulated by the virtual reality device. Therefore, the smell delivered by the virtual reality device may be dependent on the virtual reality shown to the user, rather than being dependent upon user feedback.

[0411] Therefore, in this embodiment the smell delivery device functions in isolation based on an application running on its own microprocessor. This could be a predefined set delivery experience that does not require input and could retrieve information from a stored user profile or APP information locally-stored in the smell delivery device flow controller, or in another control unit in communication with the smell delivery device. This simple configuration is presented in FIG. 15.

[0412] FIG. 16 shows a method of delivering a smell from the smell delivery device. The method comprises the first step 161 receiving instructions to emit a flow of a first substance, wherein the substance has an olfactory output, such as a smell, associated therewith. The second step 162 comprises beginning the flow of the first substance at a first flow rate, or concentration. The method then 163 comprises receiving a measurement from one or more of: the sensor positioned in the first delivery channel configured to sense the flow rate, or concentration, through the delivery channel, the environmental sensor configured to sense environmental, and/or the user feedback device configured to receive an input from a user. The final step 164 in FIG. 16 is in response to the measurement changing the flow rate, or concentration, of the first substance.

[0413] The adaptive system unit is configured to receive instructions from a user or biofeedback measure and then process the instructions or feedback to determine a flow instruction. The flow instruction is to modulate the flow generated by the flow generator. This flow instruction is then sent to the smell delivery device. The smell delivery device receives the flow instruction and in response modulate the flow rate, or concentration of the first substance, accordingly.

[0414] For example, the environmental sensor of the smell delivery device may detect the temperature, humidity, or pressure, of the local environment. This may affect a user perception of smell. For example, in the event that the temperature is very cold (for example close to or below 0 degrees Celsius) the volatility of molecules, including substances stored in the canisters may be reduced. This may reduce the smell associated by the substance, and so a higher flow rate, or a higher concentration of a substance may be required. Therefore, the smell delivery device may in response modulate the flow to increase the flow rate, or concentration of the first substance. Similarly, if humidity is high, the user may experience a musty smell. Therefore, to overcome this effect the flow rate may have to be increased, or another substance also emitted to mask the odour associated with the humidity.

[0415] If the sensor in the delivery channel senses that the flow rate/concentration is different to that required then it will feed back to the flow controller that the flow rate, or concentration should be modulated.

[0416] User feedback will also lead to a response. This is dependent on the feedback provided by the user, and the questions that may have been asked to the user. This will depend on the specific application, or test that the user is undergoing.

[0417] FIG. 17 shows an example of a process of a smell delivery method implemented according to an embodiment integration configuration setting, based on the example of infrastructure configurations as presented in FIGS. 9, 10, 11 and 12.

[0418] In the flow chart an example of a possible smell application (APP) is described. In ST1, the APP is loaded and launched by a computing device, which may determine the next step of interaction with the user (or users) (ST2) initiating a loop of interactions between the user and the computing device for which conditions to continue interacting are evaluated in ST3. The smell delivery will be triggered with defined parameters (ST4) and following that the sensing of the environment and the delivery system itself by the smell delivery device (ST5) will allow the algorithm to adjust its delivery parameters to control the actuators in order to modify the airflow as required (ST6).

[0419] The next step is a condition to generate a feedback loop in which the process of other iteration of smells delivery/sensing/adjustment of delivery parameters can be triggered until the goal of delivery is fulfilled (ST7). The whole feedback loop process, from ST4 to ST7, may be performed by the DD's control unit.

[0420] After delivering smell the interaction with the user is based on questions presented to the user (ST8) and their answers supplied to the computing device (ST9), which brings the flow back to defining based on this new information how the program will continue, by returning to ST2. From this point the entire cycle might repeat, or based on the decision made in ST2, decide not to continue the interaction with the user and finish the execution of the application.

[0421] Note that in the example of FIG. 17 the APP may be locally in device (e.g., computer system, mobile, tablet) as shown in FIG. 9 or in an orchestrator as in FIGS. 12 and 13, or run in a cloud infrastructure as in FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0422] FIG. 18 shows a flow chart illustrating an exemplary flow process of a smell delivery method implemented according to an embodiment integration configuration setting, based on the example of infrastructure configurations as in FIGS. 14 and 15.

[0423] In the flow chart an example of a possible smell application (APP) is described. In ST1, the APP is loaded and launched by a computing device, which may load the next step of delivery instructions (ST2) from a data storage, initiating a loop of interactions for which the condition to continue operating is based on delivery instructions left to be executed (ST3). The smell delivery will be triggered with defined parameters based on the next delivery instruction (ST4) and following that the sensing of information from the environment and the delivery system itself (ST5) will allow the algorithm to adjust its delivery parameters to control the actuators component in order to modify the airflow as required (ST6).

[0424] The next step is a condition to generate a feedback loop in which the process of other iteration of smells delivery/sensing/adjustment of delivery parameters can be triggered until the goal of that particular delivery instruction is fulfilled (ST7). The whole feedback loop process, from ST4 to ST7, may be performed by the DD control unit.

[0425] After delivering smell the flow returns to ST3, where it will check for further instructions. From this point the entire cycle might repeat, or no, more delivery instructions left to finish the execution of the application.

[0426] Note that in the example of FIG. 18 the APP may be locally stored in the smell delivery device as shown in FIG. 15 or run in a cloud infrastructure as in FIG. 14.

[0427] FIG. 19 shows a flow chart of an exemplary process of a smell delivery method implemented according to an embodiment integration configuration setting, which may be based on the example of infrastructure configurations as presented in FIGS. 9, 10, 11 and 12.

[0428] In the flow chart an example of a possible smell application (APP) is described. In ST1, the APP is loaded and launched by a computing device, which may request specifically a user smell configuration (ST2) initiating a loop of interactions for which conditions to continue interacting are evaluated in ST3. The smell delivery device will be triggered with defined parameters (ST4) and following that the sensing of the environment and the delivery system itself, specifically air flow, pressure, smell concentration (ST5) will allow the algorithm in driving the sensor feedback to regulate the air flow of the delivery through smell source to control scent concentration (ST6).

[0429] The next step is a condition to generate a feedback loop in which the process of other iteration of smells delivery/sensing/adjustment of delivery parameters can be triggered until the goal of delivery is fulfilled (ST7). The whole feedback loop process, from ST4 to ST7, may be performed by the DD's control unit.

[0430] After delivering smell the interaction with the user is based on questions (ST8) and their answer (ST9), which brings the flow back to defining based on this new information how the program will continue, by returning to ST3. From this point the entire cycle might repeat, or based on the decision made in ST3, decide not to continue the interaction with the user and finish the execution of the application.

[0431] Note that in this example as in FIG. 19 the APP may be locally in device (e.g., computer system, mobile, tablet) as shown in FIG. 9 or in an orchestrator as in FIGS. 12 and 13, or run in a cloud infrastructure as in FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0432] FIG. 20 shows a block diagram of an example of an adaptive smell delivery system unit together with a smell sensing device. This figure is similar to FIG. 9 but an additional smell sensing device is present. The system of FIG. 20 corresponds to a smell aiding system 100 according to one embodiment. The system of FIG. 20 may also be referred to a smell sensing system and thus the system also corresponds to a smell sensing system 100 according to one embodiment. The smell aiding system 100 comprises a smell sensing device 102. The independent unit of a smell sensing device 102 is ideally placed in the proximity of the user. The smell sensing device 102 could be placed for example around the nose or face or on the clothes of the user, for example by attachment via a clip. The reason for this is for the smell sensing device 102 to give an accurate representation of the concentration or intensity of the smell or the smell duration that can be live (or non-live) correlated with the perceptual olfactory sensation of the user. The smell aiding system 100 also comprises a smell delivery device 104. Communication channels between these units are also shown. The smell aiding system 100 also comprises a computing device 106 having a user interface 108. In other words, the smell sensing system 100 comprises a smell sensing device 102 and a smell delivery device 104.

[0433] The smell delivery device 102 comprises an array of gas sensors. The array includes a plurality of MOX sensors and a PID sensor for calibration. The gas sensors are configured to generate sensor information in response to an olfactory output 110. In FIG. 20, the olfactory output 110 is emitted by the smell delivery device 104. The olfactory output results in smell stimuli which should be detectable by the nose of the user (assuming their sense of smell is not impaired). In other examples, the olfactory output 110 is natural or emitted by a smell source other than a smell delivery device 104 so the system 100 can be provided without a smell delivery device 104. The smell delivery device 104 outputs an olfactory output 110 such as a lavender smell (or a combination of smells, perhaps at different intensities). The olfactory output 110 (smell stimuli) is then detected by the gas sensors of the smell sensing device 102. The olfactory output 110 may also be detected by the user, but in some cases the user may have an impaired sense of smell.

[0434] The smell sensing device 102 is configured to output sensor information 114 to the computing device 106. The sensor information 114 comprises the output of the gas sensors of the smell sensing device 102. The sensor information 114 may comprise smell intensity, a type of smell, a duration of smell, and/or an identification of the smell. In this example, the smell sensing device 102 has a wireless connection to the computing device 106.

[0435] The computing device 106 may be a computer system, a mobile, or a tablet. For example, the computing device 106 may be a smart device such as a smartphone or tablet. In this embodiment, the computing device 106 is local. In other words, the computing device 106 is local to the user so the user can interact with it. The computing device 106 may also interact with devices such as the smell delivery device 104 and the smell sensing device 102 locally, in this case via a wireless connection but in other cases directly via wires. The computing device 106 has a user interface 108. The user interface 108 forms a user output device. The user interface 108 can output an identification of a smell associated with the olfactory output 110. For example, the user interface 108 can output information 118 to the user, for example through a screen of the computing device 106. The user interface 108 can also receive user input information 116 such as indicating a perception of the smell related to the olfactory output 110 or other questions. The user interface 108 in this example is a touch screen, but in other examples it may be different such as a button which is separate from the user output which may be a display screen.

[0436] The computing device 106 also comprises a processor. In this embodiment, the computing device 106 runs software which performs processing. The Smell Application Software (named APP) previously described in FIG. 9 receives the sensor information 114 from the smell sensing device 102. The computing device 106 therefore can contain useful feedback (such as live information) from the smell sensing device 102. The sensor information 114 may include the intensity of smell, the smell pulse duration, the type of smell, the channel selection, or may contain a reading of the background smell of the user or the environment around the user (baseline). Dynamic information, such as smell signal variation in time or sequence of smell pulses could also be provided by the smell sensing device 102 and used by the computing device 106. Accordingly, the computing device 106 acts as the processor as disclosed herein. The computing device 106 can process the sensor information 114 and can further output an identification of the smell to the user via the user interface 108. In other examples, the processor may be separate from the user interface 108.

[0437] The sensor information 114 from the smell sensing device 102 is further correlated with delivery information 112 which is data or information generated by the smell delivery device such as smell delivery flow rate, channel selection, pump pressure, electro-valve opening. The delivery information 112 is received from the smell delivery device 104. This may indicate what canisters are loaded, which delivery channels are active, which valves are open, and the flow rate through each delivery channel. The correlation can determine that the smell delivery device 104 has worked correctly as the expected olfactory output 110 has been released at the expected intensity, as confirmed by the output of the smell sensing device 102 identified in the sensor information 114.

[0438] The computing device 106 can further correlate the sensor information 114 with environmental information from an environmental sensor such as temperature, humidity, or ambient pressure. This is received from an environmental sensor which in this example is located on the smell sensing device 102. The environmental information may therefore be supplied alongside the sensor information 114 in this case and can be transmitted to the computing device 106. In other examples, the environmental sensors may be located elsewhere such as on the smell delivery device 104 or elsewhere. As it is known that parameters such as temperature and humidity affect a sense of smell, information identifying temperature or humidity may be used to determine an environmental effect on the olfactory output 110. For example, the information related to the olfactory output 110 from the sensor information 114 may be compensated based on the environmental information.

[0439] The computing device 106 can further correlate or process the sensor information (and optionally together with the delivery information 112 and/or the environmental information) with user information which can be further information or data from a user feedback device configured to receive an input from a user, wherein the input from the user indicates a parameter of the user's perception of the olfactory output. In this example, the user information 116 is received from the user interface 108 of the computing device 106 where the computing device 106 acts as a user input unit of a user feedback device. The user inputs information such as their perception of a smell, for example indicating whether they can detect the smell, their perceived intensity, and/or their perception of what smell it is. For example, the user may input that they detect a strong odour of lavender, in this case.

[0440] In other embodiments, this further correlation of the sensor information 114 with delivery information 112, environmental information, and/or user information 116 is not necessary and the delivery information 112, environmental information, and/or user input information 116 are not required.

[0441] The processor of the computing device 106 can then correlate the sensor information 114 with the delivery information 112, environmental information, and/or user information 116 to identify the smell of the olfactory output 110. For example, the sensor information 114 from the smell sensing device 102 can be processed and from this the processor can identify a smell from the olfactory output 110 (for example a lavender smell in this case). This may be based on algorithms such as neural networks (trained on test data) analysing the signal of the gas sensors. The array of gas sensors can be used together to detect different VOCs and calibrate each other. In combination, an accurate determination of the olfactory output 110 can be provided.

[0442] The analysis is compensated for effects of the environment, by processing the environmental information, e.g. the temperature and humidity, to compensate for effects on the olfactory output 110. For example, the sensor information 114 may be adjusted when the temperature or humidity is above a certain threshold, or adjusted using a formula dependent on temperature or humidity. The computing device 106 also has a user stored profile 120 of user information which can also be used. This can indicate user preferences relating to desired output, or historical information as to impairments to sense of smell. This can be used to adjust an output through the user interface 108 of the computing device 106, for example alerting the user of an identification of certain smells at a lower intensity to other smells where the user perception is lower for that smell compared to others. The user can also input information 116 through the user interface 108 of the computing device 106 which thus acts as a user feedback device. The user interface 108 can also output answers 118 to questions 116 from the user or other outputs 118 such as an identification of smell or other feedback. User information input to the computing device 106 can then be stored in the user stored profile 120.

[0443] Once the computing device 106 has identified the smell, it can then output the identification via the user interface 108 (user output device) in the form of an output 118. The identification is a representation of the olfactory output 110. In this embodiment, the identification is an image of an object associated with the smell, in particular the object that produces the smell. In this case, the computing device 106 outputs an image of lavender via the user interface 108 so that the screen displays an image of lavender. The user can then see this and understand that the smell is lavender. In cases whether the user smell is impaired, this can aid the user or confirm their sense where it is weak.

[0444] The computing device 106 also sends delivery instructions 122 to the smell delivery device 104. In this case, these adjust the olfactory output 110 by changing the smell or intensity or combination of smells. The adjustment of the olfactory output 110 can be based on the analysis of the computing device 106, for example considering the sensor information 114 of the smell sensing device 102 or other sensors. In one example, based on the sensor information 114 of the smell sensing device 102 indicating the intensity of the olfactory output 110 (for example, the sensor information 114 containing a signal such as a voltage indicating an intensity), the computing device 106 determines that the intensity of the olfactory output 110 is too low. Based on this, the computing device 106 instructs the smell delivery device 104 to increase the intensity. This can be used for smell testing and training. The smell delivery device 104 in this embodiment has multiple delivery channels for receiving a substance from a canister and an output component through which the substance can be emitted. The substance can produce the olfactory output 110 to be detected by the smell sensing device 102. The smell delivery device 104 also has airflow generating elements which generate airflow to transport the substance from the canister to the output component. In some examples, the smell delivery device 104 is the smell delivery device of other embodiments such as in FIGS. 1 to 15. In this example, there is also a flow controller to adjust the flow rate of the substance to change the intensity of the olfactory output, but this need not be provided in some embodiments. Different delivery channels can be used for different smells, and these may be combined in varying concentrations through flow controllers or valves in each delivery channel to result in a combined olfactory output. In other embodiments, the smell delivery device 104 is not required, and the system 100 may be implemented with other smell sources such as natural smells.

[0445] FIG. 21 shows a block diagram of an example of an adaptive smell delivery system unit and an independent unit of smell sensing device in a possible cloud-based configuration. In particular, FIG. 21 shows another embodiment of the smell aiding system 200 which is similar to the smell aiding system 100 except where set out below. The system of FIG. 21 may also be referred to as a smell sensing system 200. FIG. 21 is similar to FIG. 20, but instead of the processing being performed on a computing device 106 which is local to the user, the processing is performed remotely in a cloud infrastructure. This figure is similar to FIG. 10, but it shows the addition of a smell sensing device 102 and its communication channels to the computing device 206 in the cloud. The cloud should preferably be understood to mean computing resources (such as processors and servers, data storage, data access, and/or software) available via a network such as the internet. Thus, cloud computing can refer to storing and accessing data and programs over the internet instead of on a local computing device.

[0446] In this embodiment, the computing device 206 is a remote computing device and is arranged in the cloud infrastructure. In other examples, more than one computing device is provided where the processing is shared across multiple devices or resources in the cloud. In some examples, part of the processing can be performed in the cloud, while part can be performed locally by a local computing device such as computing device 106. The computing device 206 interacts with the smell sensing device 102 and the smell delivery device 104 in a similar manner, but over a remote connection such as over the internet. In this embodiment, the system 100 includes a user interface 208 which is in communication with the computing device 206 in the cloud. In this embodiment, the user interface 208 is a smart device such as a smartphone. The user can interact with the user interface 208 of the smart device to communicate with the computing device 206 in the cloud.

[0447] The smell sensing device 102 may comprise a Bluetooth component or a wireless transmitter and can be connected wirelessly to the computing device 206 or directly to the wireless network. The sensor information 114 from the smell sensing device 102 is further processed in the computing device 206 in the cloud to more accurately predict and differentiate between different categories of smells and their intensities. Machine learning, neural networks or more advanced artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms may be used on the computing device 206 to increase selectivity and sensitivity to smell. As the computing power can be higher when using a cloud service compared to a local device, more complex algorithms such as more powerful AI algorithms can be used. The computing device 206 can also communicate with the user interface 208 for outputting information 118 to a user and receiving input 116 from the user. This allows for the user to input their perception to a smell 116 and to receive an output 118 identifying the smell. The user interface 208 thus acts as a user output device and also as a user feedback device having a user input unit.

[0448] In other words, the system 200 can be operated in a similar manner to the system 100, except that the processing is performed in the cloud.

[0449] FIG. 22A shows a schematic representation of an example of the various components involved in smell training or smell testing. FIG. 22A shows an example embodiment of a smell aiding system 300, which is similar to the smell aiding system 100 or 200, except as set out below. The system of FIG. 22 may also be referred to as a smell sensing system 300. The system 300 has a smell sensing device 302, a smell delivery device 104, and a smart device 306 for processing. The smart device 306 is a computing device and has a user interface 308. The system 300 is similar to FIG. 20 or 21. The smart device 306 is a smartphone having an app which can output information such as an identification of the smell and odour levels. In other examples, the smart device 306 may be a tablet or other smart device. The app can also receive user input such as a perception of a smell. The smell delivery device 104 delivers a smell by emitting an olfactory output 110 towards the user.

[0450] The smell sensing device 302 is attached to the user so that it is close to the nose of the user. Here the position of the smell sensing device 302 attached to the frame of glasses is specifically shown. The odour is delivered by the smell delivery device 104 via volatile organic compounds. The VOCs diffuse through the medium (air) and part of them reach the user. The intensity of the smell is given by the concentration of the VOCs that reach the user. This in turn is a function of the flow rate through which the smell is delivered in each channel. The smell sensing device 302 detects the concentration of the smell, the type of smell, the smell duration (in the proximity of the user), the background smell and also ambient parameters such as humidity and temperature. In this example, the smell delivery device 302 comprises gas sensors and environmental sensors.

[0451] The smell sensing device 302 provides a live feedback to the smart device 306. The smell delivery device 104 has a wireless transmitter for communicating with the smart device 306 by Bluetooth or other wireless protocol such as Wi-Fi. The sensor information 114 sent from the smell sensing device 302 to the smart device 306 contains a signal of the sensor response to the olfactory output 110 which indicates an intensity of the smell and the data from the smell sensing device 302 may further contain environmental information from environmental sensors indicating, for example, temperature and humidity.

[0452] The information is correlated with a database 124 by the smart device 306 and the feedback olfactory perception from the user. The user feedback can be input via the user interface 308 to the smart device 306. Where the user indicates that they perceive the smell (or indicate a relative intensity), the sensor information 114 can be used to verify this. The database 124 can be used by the smart device 306 to look up historical data such as background olfactory output patterns or historical user data. Thus, the sensor information 114 may be correlated with user information and user input information. In the event that the user indicates that they cannot detect the olfactory output 110 (e.g. lavender smell) emitted by the smell delivery device 104, but the smell sensing device 102 indicates a high intensity of, in this case, lavender, via the sensor information 114, then it is confirmed that the system 300 is working correctly, indicating an impairment to the user's sense of smell. By processing the historical user information, the smart device 306 can determine that the user has historically had difficulty smelling lavender. This information can be output to the user via the user output device, which in this case is provided by the user interface 308 of the smart device 306. In this embodiment, the user output device is the same device (smart device 306) as the processor and the user input device, but in other examples they may be provided separately. This information can also be fed back to the smell delivery device 104 through control signals 122.

[0453] The smart device 306 also communicates with the smell delivery device 104 to control channel selection, flow rate, smell intensity and other parameters. The smart device 306 can instruct the smell delivery device 104 to adjust the olfactory output 110. If, as here, the user has indicated they cannot detect the smell, the smart device 306 can instruct the smell delivery device 104 to increase the intensity such as by increasing flow rate to see if the user can detect the higher intensity. The smart device 306 may communicate with the smell delivery device 104 wirelessly such as over a wireless network or by Bluetooth. The user information can indicate a level at which the user can detect the lavender smell, so the intensity can be changed to confirm this level and detect any change in the user's ability to smell.

[0454] The smart device 306 is the processor in this example and may receive the sensor information 114 and delivery information, and send instructions 122 to adjust the delivery of the olfactory output 110. The smart device 306 also performs the processing and outputs the identification or validation through the user interface 308. In other words, the processing is performed locally by the smart device 306. In other examples, the smart device 306 can act as a communication device and the processing can be performed on another device such as in the cloud. Thus, the smart device 306 can receive the information, but forward this to a remote computing device in the cloud. In other examples, the system 300 may include processing power in the cloud network.

[0455] FIG. 22B shows part of FIG. 22A, specifically elements of an example smell sensing device 302 of FIG. 22A attached to a specially designed pair of glasses 350. These glasses 350 could be with prescription lenses, clear lenses, dummy lenses, sunglasses lenses, or no lenses at all. In this example, a wireless transmitter 354 is attached to the frame of the glasses 350 while a unit comprising the gas sensors 352 (and optionally other sensors such as environmental sensors) from the smell sensing device 302 are clipped-on the nose, but in other cases could be connected to the frame of the glasses 350 (not shown). The smell sensing device 302 can be attachable to the glasses 350 so as to be retrofitted or may be provided integral with the glasses 350. The clips holding the gas sensors 352 may be attached to the glasses 350 or not.

[0456] FIG. 22C shows a simplified view of an example clip-on device of a smell sensing device 402. The position of the smell delivery device 402 close to the nose of the user is preferable, as this will give a more accurate correlation with the feedback provided by the user concerning his/her perceptual sensation of smell. In this embodiment, the smell sensing device 402 comprises a clip for attaching to the user's nose. In this example, a wireless transmitter is also provided on the clip-on device, rather than on the frame of glasses. To reduce weight, in some examples there is not a wireless transmitter but a data storage for storing the sensor information. This can then be plugged into a computing device to extract the sensor information for use by the processing device. The smell sensing device 402 allows the gas sensor to be located in proximity to the user's nose, meaning that the results of the sensor are indicative of the smell the user would perceive, and are more accurate than being further away. This can be used to aid or replace the user's sense of smell.

[0457] FIG. 23 shows a 3D schematic representation of an example of a smell sensing device 29, comprising a printed circuit board (PCB) 30, gas sensors in the form of multi-sensing volatile organic compound sensors 31, 32, environmental sensor 33, an ASIC drive and read-out circuit 34, a wireless transmitter/Bluetooth 35, battery 36, and interface ports 39. Openings 37 in packages or lids to allow smell to diffuse into the sensing elements of the volatile organic compound sensors are provided. Openings could also be provided for access to ambient conditions (e.g. humidity level). Metal leads 38 to interconnect circuits on the PCB are also schematically shown. The VOC sensor 31 is a PID sensor while 32 is a MOX array of sensors. The PID sensor 31 provides an accurate and stable detection of the total VOCs (TVOCs) present and a reliable reading of the baseline (background smell). The selectivity is improved to give information about the type of smell by combination with the MOX sensors 32. The array of the MOX sensors 32 can differentiate between different types of smell. This is facilitated by software algorithms implemented in the local ASIC 34 or alternatively as part of the app software of the smart device processing the sensor information. The PID 31 is also used to calibrate the MOX sensor array 32. The environmental sensor 33 comprises a temperature and humidity sensor. The temperature and humidity sensor is used to help to compensate for the parasitic effects of temperature and humidity on the output of the VOC sensors 31, 32. They can also be used as part of the ambient data and transferred as feedback to the smart device. The smell sensing device 29 may be used in the smell sensing device 102, 302, or 402.

[0458] While this figure shows an example of a simple, schematic implementation of a smell sensing device, other implementations based on different state-of-the-art assembly techniques are possible (not shown). The smell sensing device, could be in the form of a system in package (SIP) and could use techniques such as flip-chip, stack die, chip on board assembly, wafer level packaging etc. The VOC sensors could be for example mounted straight onto the chip of an ASIC rather than through a PCB, using a stack die technique. The humidity and temperature sensor may be co-packaged with the VOC sensor(s), to decrease the form factor and/or reduce the cost of the device.

[0459] FIG. 24A shows the smell transient signal from a photoionization detector (PID) incorporated in an example of a smell sensing device. This figure shows a possible output of a smell delivery device function of time. The smell intensity, the smell duration and the baseline of the smell are shown. Between smell pulses a recovery period is present, where the smell reduces to that of the background smell. The signal from the PID sensor is shown as a voltage output. Here three identical pulses of smell delivered by the smell delivery device are present. A sequence of smell pulses with different intensities and different types of smell could be used as part of the procedures for smell testing, smell training, or smell immersive experience. This can form sensor information which can be processed by the processor using pattern-matching or other algorithms to identify the smell. For example, the signals can be compared to known signals in a database, or machine learning, neural networks, or AI methods can be implemented to identify the smell.

[0460] FIG. 24B shows the decay of the concentration of the smell as function of the distance between the smell delivery device and the smell sensing device. This figure clearly indicates that the intensity of the smell delivered by the smell delivery device and measured by the smell sensing device is highly dependent on the distance. The correlation is shown for both experimental data and simulation data using a software simulation package, in the example shown COMSOL, which is supplied by COMSOL Ltd, Cambridge, CB3 0DU, United Kingdom. The closer the user is to the smell delivery device, the stronger the olfactory perception. Placing the smell delivery device in the close proximity of the user (the user's nose) is preferable for a more accurate reading of the VOC concentration (smell signal). The smell intensity is also a function of the concentration of the chemicals in the cartridge and the flow rate through each of the channels of the smell delivery device. By use of a position sensor, the distance between the smell sensing device and the user's nose can be used to compensate the reading of the smell sensing device. In other words, if the distance is known, then the value of intensity of the gas sensor can be compensated based on the known correlation during calibration to provide a more accurate value of the intensity at the user's nose.

[0461] It will be appreciated from the discussion above that the embodiments shown in the Figures are merely exemplary, and include features which may be generalised, removed or replaced as described herein and as set out in the claims. With reference to the drawings in general, it will be appreciated that schematic functional block diagrams are used to indicate functionality of systems and apparatus described herein. For example, the functionality provided by the flow generator may in whole or in part be provided by the valves. In addition, the process functionality described may also be provided by devices which are supported by the adaptive system unit. It will be appreciated however that the functionality need not be divided in this way and should not be taken to imply any particular structure of hardware other than that described and claimed below. The function of one or more of the elements shown in the drawings may be further subdivided, and/or distributed throughout apparatus of the disclosure. In some embodiments the function of one or more elements shown in the drawings may be integrated into a single functional unit.

[0462] The above embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples. Further embodiments are envisaged. It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments, or any combination of any other of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the accompanying claims.

[0463] In some examples, one or more memory elements can store data and/or program instructions used to implement the operations described herein. Embodiments of the disclosure provide tangible, non-transitory storage media comprising program instructions operable to program a processor to perform any one or more of the methods described and/or claimed herein and/or to provide data processing apparatus as described and/or claimed herein.

[0464] The sensors, flow controller and flow generator (and any of the activities and apparatus outlined herein) and the smell sensing device any of their constituent parts may contain or may be implemented with fixed logic such as assemblies of logic gates or programmable logic such as software and/or computer program instructions executed by a processor. Other kinds of programmable logic include programmable processors, programmable digital logic (e.g., a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM), an application specific integrated circuit, ASIC, or any other kind of digital logic, software, code, electronic instructions, flash memory, optical disks, CD-ROMs, DVD ROMs, magnetic or optical cards, other types of machine-readable mediums suitable for storing electronic instructions, or any suitable combination thereof. Such data storage media may also provide a data storage means for use in conjunction with the smell deliver system to store any data created.