Have you heard of Electric Smells?

Have you heard of Electric Smells?

NO! This is not about a new fragrance called ‘Electric’. This about the new ways to smell things, which involves electricity of course. Researches have been going on for years to incorporate the dimension of smell in regular television and cinema but so far, they only had limited success. 

Can you smell anything without actually smelling it?

Can you actually digitize different odours?

Did you know there is jewellery that has a device that can emit fragrance? Did you know that there are perfume printing devices that print perfume combinations as per the user’s wish? These are just a few of the innovations which are happening in the industry. The game of fragrances is all set to be revolutionized by technology shortly soon!! So, here are some of the examples of ‘Electric Smells’!

1.      Virtual Reality Set (VR) with Smell Function

Scientists have developed a new VR Set which has a smell function. As VR Sets can simulate vision, audio, and movements through the device, some organizations are ready to add the smell aspect in it. The ION device has vials of different scents, as per a particular theme. As the user moves, electrical signals are unleashed which release micro amounts of smell or combinations of smell from the vials. This way, along with the audio, video and movement-related simulation, the user can experience smell in real-time.

2.      Electric Nose Stimulation for Stereo Smell

We can perceive the smells because our nose has nerves and a receptor mechanism to capture fragrance molecules and send signals to the brain. But some scientists thought – what is the need for fragrance molecules when you can directly send electric signals to the nose? Researchers at the University of Chicago have created small nose-worn hardware which is capable of creating and transmitting electric signals which makes you smell different things. The innovative part is – we can send different signals to different nostrils!

3.      Digital Olfaction Technology for AI Machines

Just like machines can see using sensors & cameras, and they can hear using microphones – scientists are developing the ability to smell using Artificial Intelligence for machines. In DOT, the system captures the odour signatures using bio-sensors. This results in certain digital data which is then analyzed to create a digital signature for a particular smell. Such capabilities can help the machines detect smell automatically and take further actions, as mandated in the program.

So, the researchers are constantly trying to create a technical alternative to ‘the art of smelling’. Soon, you will be able to choose a particular smell and get it stimulated electrically into your nose. Or you will be able to avoid smelling unwanted odour because the AI has already detected it and neutralized it. The possibilities are endless. However, nothing will ever beat the good old scents in a cute little bottle. All you need to do is spray it 5 times and there is your favourite smell, right into your nose!!!