A smelling screen is a type of digital scent technology, unveiled in 2013, that combines a display screen, similar to a television or computer monitor, with an odor emitting device capable of pinpointing the smell to a specific portion of the displayed image. It is believed to be the first device to incorporate smells into a television screen,[1] though certainly not the first to synchronize smell with a displayed image (see Digital scent technology).
Description edit
The smelling screen combines a digital display with four small fans, one at each corner of the display. Odor stored in tiny gel packets is emitted and blown parallel to the screen.[2] By varying the speed and strength of each fan, an emitted odor is moved to a specific spot on the screen. The fans operate at a very low speed, making it difficult for the user to perceive airflow; instead he or she perceives the smell as coming directly out of the screen and object displayed at that location.[3]
Development edit
In 2013, a group of researchers from the Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology unveiled a prototype smelling screen to the public at the ACM/IEEE Virtual Reality Conference.[citation needed]
The product is in the early stages of development with no plans for commercial distribution in the near future.[3]
See also edit
References edit
- ^ Brian Sin (April 2, 2013). "The smell-o-vision TV implements scents with your favorite TV programs". Slash Gear. Retrieved April 3, 2013.
- ^ "Smell-o-vision screens let you really smell the coffee". New Scientist. March 29, 2013. Retrieved April 3, 2013.
- ^ a b Amanda Kooser (April 2, 2013). "Japanese scientists create 'Smell-O-Vision' screen". CNET. Retrieved April 3, 2013.
External links edit
- Smelling screen research paper published by the IEEE Computer Society