MorphingScents
Abstract
In this work, we present MorphingScents, a thin-film, five-layer, flexible, shape-changing odor-emitting mechanism that uses Joule heating to drive both scent release and morphological changes, aiming to provide lightweight, intricate, dynamic, and aesthetic olfactory displays and experiences. Based on the direction of scent release and shape change, we propose two fundamental scent release mechanisms: Inward Gathering Release and Outward Dispersing Release. Combining four deformation mechanisms and three multi-scent release methods, we compiled a shape-changing olfactory interfaces library and further provided a detailed design and fabrication pipeline. We conducted a series of technical tests, including relation to heating and deformation angles and olfactory concentration across different areas, thicknesses, and directions of the odor layer. We demonstrated five applications. We conducted a user-involved workshop to validate MorphingScents’s usability and feasibility. Finally, we discuss the potential for expansion, usage precautions, and design iterations of MorphingScents.
Authors
Yifan Yan, Yanan Wang, Mingyi Yuan, Yucheng Li, Yilin Shao, Qi Wang, Guanyun Wang, Yujin Tian
Publication Information
Journal: IJHCI (International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction)
Accepted 05 Dec 2024
Notes
Olfaction and gustation are both crucial chemical senses, and exploring how to integrate and design these senses within Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) is a fascinating area of research. I’m grateful to Dr. Yan for the opportunity to be involved in this project. Through this experience, I learned about the fabrication processes involved in olfaction and experimented with materials like beeswax for scent transmission and encapsulation. This project has sparked a deeper interest in multisensory and synesthetic interactions, and has expanded my curiosity about the potential for creating more immersive, sensory-rich HCI experiences.