Odor presentation module, odor presentation system, information processing device, and odor presentation module control system

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a technique that makes it possible to flexibly control odors. There is provided an odor presentation module including an odor retention portion that retains an odor; an air flow forming unit that forms an air flow containing an odor and discharges the air flow to the outside through a discharge opening of the odor presentation module; a controller for controlling the operation of the airflow forming unit; and a housing including the odor holding portion, the airflow forming portion, and the controller, the housing including an engaging portion enabling the housing to be engaged to another housing. Further, there is provided an odor presentation system comprising at least one odor presentation module, the odor presentation system presenting an odor using any of the at least one odor presentation module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present technology relates to an odor presentation module, an odor presentation system, an information processing device, and an odor presentation module control system. In particular, the present technology relates to an odor presentation module, an odor presentation system, an information processing device, and an odor presentation module control system that enable flexible control of odors. Background Art

[0002] In the past, a technology has been proposed for providing an odor to a user by supplying air to an odor holding body that holds an odor and discharging the odor by using the flow of the air. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an aroma device that includes an aroma head capable of discharging a gas containing a fragrance substance in front of a user's face and performing exhaust for deodorization.

[0003] In addition, in recent years, odors have been presented in coordination with, for example, video. For example, Patent Document 2 discloses an olfactory display that presents a fragrance in a limited area in terms of time and space, the olfactory display including a housing having a jet port; a plurality of aroma chambers, each aroma chamber including an air inlet and an aroma outlet, the plurality of aroma chambers being formed by partitioning an inner space of the housing by using partition walls; aroma channels that connect each aroma outlet to the jet port; solid aroma sources accommodated in the aroma chambers; a plurality of wind sources, each wind source being provided to a corresponding one of the plurality of aroma chambers, each of the plurality of wind sources forcing air to enter the aroma chamber through the air inlet by using a diaphragm including a piezoelectric element; and an auxiliary wind source that is separately provided to the housing from the plurality of wind sources, the auxiliary wind source using a diaphragm including a piezoelectric element to accelerate the aroma sent out from the aroma chamber by using the wind source, the acceleration being performed in the direction of jetting the aroma.

[0004] Citation List

[0005] Patent Documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-304608

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-230632 Summary of the Invention

[0008] Technical Problem

[0009] However, there is still room for further development in terms of an aroma device that is flexible in terms of, for example, the types of odors that can be handled, the number of odors, the number of aroma devices that can be installed, and the locations where the aroma devices can be installed, in response to the needs of users. In fact, it is currently difficult to freely use aroma devices for odor arrangements.

[0010] Therefore, the main object of the present technology is to provide a technology that enables flexible control of odors.

[0011] Solution to the problem

[0012] First, the present technology provides an odor presentation module, the odor presentation module including an odor holding unit that holds an odor; an air flow forming unit that forms an air flow containing the odor and discharges the air flow to the outside through a discharge opening of the odor presentation module; a controller that controls an operation of the air flow forming unit; and a housing that includes the odor holding unit, the air flow forming unit, and the controller, the housing including a joining portion that enables the housing to be joined to another housing.

[0013] In addition, the present technology also provides an odor presentation system, the odor presentation system including at least one odor presentation module, the odor presentation module including an odor holding unit that holds an odor; an air flow forming unit that forms an air flow containing the odor and discharges the air flow to the outside through a discharge opening of the odor presentation module; a controller that controls an operation of the air flow forming unit; and a housing that includes the odor holding unit, the air flow forming unit, and the controller, the housing including a joining portion that enables the housing to be joined to another housing, the odor presentation system using any one of the at least one odor presentation module to present an odor.

[0014] In addition, the present technology also provides an information processing device, the information processing device including a terminal linked to an odor presentation module, the odor presentation module including an odor holding unit that holds an odor, an air flow forming unit that forms an air flow containing the odor and discharges the air flow to the outside through a discharge opening of the odor presentation module, a controller that controls an operation of the air flow forming unit, and a housing that includes the odor holding unit, the air flow forming unit, and the controller, the housing including a joining portion that enables the housing to be joined to another housing; and a processor that receives information related to a state of the module and available to a user, performs processing of outputting and storing the information, and generates a signal related to output and storage of the information.

[0015] In addition, the present technology also provides an odor presentation module control system, which includes at least one odor presentation module. The odor presentation module includes an odor holding part for holding an odor, an air flow forming part for forming an air flow containing the odor and discharging the air flow to the outside through a discharge opening of the odor presentation module, a controller for controlling the operation of the air flow forming part, and a housing including the odor holding part, the air flow forming part, and the controller. The housing includes a joint part for enabling the housing to be joined to other housings; a terminal linked to the at least one odor presentation module; and an information processing device including a processor. The processor receives information related to the state of the module and available to the user, processes the information for output and storage, and generates signals related to the output and storage of the information. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an odor presentation module 1 according to a first embodiment of the present technology.

[0017] Figure 2 is a set of six views of an odor presentation module 1 according to a first embodiment of the present technology.

[0018] Figure 3 Illustrates the internal structure of an odor presentation module 1 according to a first embodiment of the present technology.

[0019] Figure 4 is a set of six views illustrating an embodiment of an odor holding part 10.

[0020] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an odor holding part 10.

[0021] Figure 6 is along Figure 4 a sectional view taken along the line P-P in the embodiment illustrated in the figure.

[0022] Figure 7 illustrates how Figure 4 odor is discharged from the odor holding part 10 illustrated in the figure in a sectional conceptual diagram.

[0023] Figure 8 is a perspective view of an odor presentation system 2 according to a second embodiment of the present technology when the odor presentation system 2 includes a single odor presentation module 1.

[0024] Figure 9 is a perspective view of an odor presentation system 2 according to a second embodiment of the present technology when the odor presentation system 2 includes a single odor presentation module 1.

[0025] Figure 10is a perspective view of an odor presentation system 2 according to a second embodiment of the present technology when the odor presentation system 2 includes a single odor presentation module 1.

[0026] Figure 11 is a perspective view of an odor presentation system 2 according to a second embodiment of the present technology when the odor presentation system 2 includes a single odor presentation module 1.

[0027] Figure 12 is a perspective view of an odor presentation system 2 according to a second embodiment of the present technology when the odor presentation system 2 includes a plurality of odor presentation modules 1.

[0028] Figure 13 is a perspective view of an odor presentation system 2 according to a second embodiment of the present technology when the odor presentation system 2 includes a plurality of odor presentation modules 1.

[0029] Figure 14 is a perspective view of an odor presentation system 2 according to a second embodiment of the present technology when the odor presentation system 2 includes a plurality of odor presentation modules 1.

[0030] Figure 15 is a perspective view of an odor presentation system 2 according to a second embodiment of the present technology when the odor presentation system 2 includes a plurality of odor presentation modules 1.

[0031] Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating the processing performed by an information processing apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present technology.

[0032] Figure 17 Illustrates an example of a UI displayed on a display unit of a terminal.

[0033] Figure 18 Illustrates an example of the configuration of an odor presentation module control system 3 according to a fourth embodiment of the present technology.

[0034] Figure 19 Illustrates a modification example of an inner layer portion 211.

[0035] Figure 20 The A of Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the modification example shown in the illustration in Figure 20 The B of

[0036] Figure 21 Illustrates in Figure 19 an example of an embodiment of a sealing container 50 for sealing in the modification example shown in the illustration in

[0037] Figure 22 Illustrates a modification example of a coupling portion 103.

[0038] Figure 23 The schematic diagram illustrates an example of the quiet operation during air discharge.

[0039] Figure 24 The schematic diagram illustrates an example of the noise reduction operation during air discharge.

[0040] Figure 25 The diagram illustrates a modified example of the air flow forming section 11. Detailed implementation

[0041] Preferred embodiments for implementing the present technology will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] The embodiments described below are examples of representative embodiments of the present technology, and the scope of the present technology is not to be construed as being limited to these embodiments. Note that the description is in the following order.

[0043] 1. First Embodiment (Odor Presentation Module 1)

[0044] (1) Example of the constitution of the odor presentation module 1

[0045] (2) Odor holding section 10

[0046] (2-1) Odor carrier 101

[0047] (2-2) Ventilation section 102

[0048] (2-3) Connection section 103

[0049] (2-4) Modified example of the connection section 103

[0050] (2-5) Others

[0051] (2-6) Example of the odor discharge operation through the odor holding section 10

[0052] (3) Air flow forming section 11

[0053] (4) Modified example of the air flow forming section 11

[0054] (5) Controller 12

[0055] (6) Housing 13

[0056] (7) Connection to an external unit

[0057] (8) Information related to the odor presentation module 1

[0058] (9) Air passage 15

[0059] (10) Others

[0060] 2. Second Embodiment (Odor Presentation System 2)

[0061] 3. Third Embodiment (Information Processing Device)

[0062] 4. Fourth Embodiment (Control System 3 of Odor Presentation Module)

[0063] 5. Applications of Odor Presentation Module 1 and Odor Presentation System 2

[0064] 1. First Embodiment (Odor Presentation Module 1)

[0065] (1) Configuration Example of Odor Presentation Module 1

[0066] Reference Figure 1 and Figure 2 Describe a configuration example of the odor presentation module 1 according to the first embodiment of the present technology. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the odor presentation module 1 according to the present embodiment. Figure 2 is Figure 1 a set of six views of the odor presentation module 1 of the embodiment illustrated in the figure, where A is the front view, B is the rear view, C is the left view, D is the right view, E is the plan view, and F is the bottom view. In addition, Figure 3 schematically illustrates the internal structure of the odor presentation module 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0067] The odor presentation module 1 according to the present embodiment includes an odor holding unit 10, an air flow forming unit 11, a controller 12, and a housing 13. In addition, as needed, the odor presentation module 1 may include other structural elements, such as a battery 14, a communication unit (not shown), and an air passage 15.

[0068] The odor presentation module 1 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0069] (2) Odor Holding Unit 10

[0070] The odor holding unit 10 is a structural element that holds an odor. Note that the "odor" used herein may include any component that stimulates some or all of the receptors present in the nasal cavity, such as odor molecules. In addition to olfactory receptors, there are also, for example, trigeminal nerve receptors in the nasal cavity, where the trigeminal nerve receptors are in charge of stimuli such as cold, heat, and pain. The odor used herein broadly includes any component that stimulates some or all of the receptors. Specifically, for example, when menthol is used as an odor, menthol refers to both the stimulus provided through olfactory receptors and can also refer to the cold sensation stimulus provided through trigeminal nerve receptors (TRPA1 channels).

[0071] The odor holding unit 10 can be, for example, a replaceable cartridge-type odor holding unit. Figure 4A set of six views illustrating an embodiment of the odor retention part 10, where A is the front view, B is the rear view, C is the left view, D is the right view, E is the plan view, and F is the bottom view. Figure 5 is Figure 4 a perspective view of the odor retention part 10 of the embodiment illustrated in the figure, Figure 6 is a sectional view along Figure 4 the P-P line in the embodiment illustrated in the figure.

[0072] The odor retention part 10 according to the present embodiment includes an odor carrier 101, a ventilation part 102, and a coupling part 103. The adoption of such a structure enables the odor to stay in a certain place, thus facilitating the handling of the odor. In addition, the odor retention part 10 has a symmetrical structure. The adoption of such a structure enables the sharing of forming components, thereby reducing costs.

[0073] The corresponding structural elements of the odor retention part 10 according to the present embodiment are described in detail below.

[0074] (2-1) Odor carrier 101

[0075] In the present embodiment, the odor carrier 101 includes an impregnating member 20 and a container part 21. In addition, in the present embodiment, a lid part 22 corresponding to the container part 21 is joined to a part of the coupling part 103 described later. Note that, in the present embodiment, joining also includes a state in which the coupling part 103 and the lid part 22 are single molded parts.

[0076] As a material for forming the impregnating member 20, any material capable of carrying an odor can be used. Specifically, the impregnating member 20 can be made of an organic polymer material so that the odor can easily penetrate the impregnating member 20. For example, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, phenolic resin, olefin resin, nylon, polyester, synthetic rubber, silicone resin, natural rubber, protein, nucleic acid, lipid, or polysaccharide can be used as the organic polymer material, or at least one of them can be arbitrarily combined to be used as the organic polymer material. In addition, for example, polymer resins such as polycarbonate, acrylic resin, polyurethane resin, ABS resin, polyetheretherketone resin, polyacetal resin, fluororesin, norbornene polymer resin, or polyimide resin; metals such as stainless steel (stainless steel for steel (SUS)) or aluminum; inorganic crystals such as quartz; glass; or filter paper can be used as the organic polymer material, or at least one of them can be arbitrarily combined to be used as the organic polymer material.

[0077] In addition, the impregnating member 20 can be formed to be porous, and for example, a mesh structure, cork, mesoporous silica, or calcium carbonate can be used to form the impregnating member 20. Note that the impregnating member 20 can be formed to have a fibrous structure or a layered structure (such as clay minerals).

[0078] The impregnating member 20 can also be in any form. For example, a sheet-like, net-like, strip-like (including its aggregates), granular (including its aggregates), gel-like, liquid-like (including the liquid maintained due to, for example, the surface tension of the carrier), foam-like, three-dimensional structure (such as a needle clip-like, spiral-like or spring-like), or cord-like (including its aggregates) can be used as the form of the impregnating member 20, or at least one of them can be arbitrarily combined to be used as the form of the impregnating member 20. For example, when the impregnating member 20 is sheet-like, the impregnating member 20 can be accommodated in the container portion 21 by being rolled into a cylindrical shape or folded in a multi-layer form. In the present technology, the impregnating member 20 can be in any form that enables the impregnating member 20 to be accommodated in the container portion 21.

[0079] For the odor carried by the impregnating member 20, any component capable of generating an odor can be used. Specifically, for example, a liquid fragrance as it is, a powder fragrance, etc., a substance obtained by dissolving or dispersing a powder fragrance, etc. in an appropriate solvent, essential oil, an essential oil diluted with an appropriate solvent, fruit juice, food, or a substance obtained by dissolving or dispersing food in an appropriate solvent can be used as the odor component, or at least one of them can be arbitrarily combined to be used as the odor component.

[0080] Preferably, the container portion 21 has a double-layer structure. In the present embodiment, the container portion 21 includes an inner layer portion 211 and an outer layer portion 212. The inner layer portion 211 forms the inner side portion of the container portion 21 for holding the impregnating member 20, and the outer layer portion 212 forms the outer side portion of the container portion 21.

[0081] Any material capable of holding the impregnating member 20 can be used to form the inner layer portion 211. In the present embodiment, part or all of the inner layer portion 211 is preferably formed of glass or metal. Examples of the metal include stainless steel (stainless steel for steel (SUS)) and aluminum. In addition, in the present embodiment, the inner wall of the inner layer portion 211 on the side of the impregnating member 20 can be formed of a metal foil or can be plated with a metal. Any material can be used to form the outer layer portion 212. For example, resins such as polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, phenolic resin, olefin resin, polycarbonate, acrylic resin, polyurethane resin, ABS resin, polyetheretherketone resin, polyacetal resin, fluororesin, cycloolefin polymer resin, or polyimide resin can be used to form the outer layer portion 212, or at least one of them can be arbitrarily combined to be used to form the outer layer portion 212.

[0082] Each of the inner layer portion 211 and the outer layer portion 212 may also be in any form that enables the corresponding one of the portions to hold the impregnating member 20 and may be arbitrarily designed. For example, a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially polygonal cylindrical shape having a substantially polygonal cross-section (substantially triangular or rectangular cross-section, or a cross-section having five or more sides), a substantially conical shape, or a substantially polygonal conical shape having a substantially polygonal cross-section (substantially triangular or rectangular cross-section, or a cross-section having five or more sides) may be used as the form of each portion, or at least one of them may be arbitrarily combined to be used as the form of each portion.

[0083] Figure 19 Illustrates a modified example of the inner layer portion 211. In Figure 19 In the modified example illustrated in the figure, the inner layer portion 211 further includes a lid portion 213 for the inner layer portion corresponding to the inner layer portion 211. Note that Figure 19 the outer layer portion 212 is not shown. In Figure 19 In the modified example illustrated in the figure, the odor-carrying structural element is independent of other structural elements. This enables the odor-carrying structural element to be used independently only. This provides the advantage of easy handling.

[0084] Preferably, part or all (preferably all) of the inner layer portion 211 is formed of a material exhibiting high chemical resistance and / or low air permeability. Further, preferably, part or all (preferably all) of the lid portion 213 for the inner layer portion is formed of a material exhibiting high chemical resistance. Forming with a material exhibiting high chemical resistance and / or low air permeability enables prevention of degradation of components that can generate odors, thereby enabling long-term storage. Examples of the material exhibiting high chemical resistance and / or low air permeability include metals such as stainless steel (stainless steel for steel (SUS)) and aluminum, resins such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), and glass. In the present embodiment, aluminum among these materials is particularly preferably used.

[0085] In Figure 19 In the modified example illustrated in the figure, the inner layer portion 211 and the lid portion 213 for the inner layer portion may be fitted to each other using a conventionally known fitting mechanism. Specific examples of the fitting include pressing the lid portion 213 of the inner layer portion into the inner layer portion 211; threading the inner layer portion 211 and the lid portion 213 for the inner layer portion; using a cam latch handle or a locking member having a snap structure, for example; bonding using an adhesive, for example; and heat fusion bonding.

[0086] Figure 20 where A is Figure 19 a cross-sectional view of the modified example illustrated in the figure, Figure 20The B diagram illustrates an example of the back side of the lid portion 213 for the inner layer portion. As Figure 19 and Figure 20 shown in the A diagram, an air flow inlet 216 and an air flow outlet 214 are formed in the lid portion 213 for the inner layer portion. Further, in the present embodiment, the odor-bearing impregnated member 20 is in a sheet form and is accommodated in the inner layer portion 211 by being rolled into a cylindrical shape or folded in a multi-layer form. In this case, as Figure 20 shown in the B diagram, a spiral groove 215 is formed in the back side of the lid portion 213 for the inner layer portion so that the shape of the impregnated member 20 is maintained. Further, the impregnated member 20 preferably contacts the upper surface of the lid portion 213 for the inner layer portion and the bottom surface of the inner layer portion 211. As a result of adopting such a structure, the air flow flowing into the inner layer portion 211 is discharged after passing through all the spiral structures in the inner layer portion 211. This makes it possible to more surely generate an air flow containing an odor.

[0087] Further, the impregnated member 20 is set in advance for the spiral groove 215 as needed, which makes it possible to pour, through the inlet 214, a component that can generate, for example, a liquid odor or a semi-liquid odor.

[0088] Figure 21 The diagram illustrates an example of an embodiment of the sealing container 50 for sealing in the Figure 19 variant shown in the diagram. For example, when sealing the Figure 19 variant shown in the diagram for storage in the Figure 21 sealing container 50 shown in the diagram until the start of use (preferably, until just before use), this makes it possible to prevent the degradation of the components that can generate an odor. Further, preferably, a part or all (preferably all) of the container portion 51 and the lid portion 52 for the sealing container included in the Figure 21 sealing container 50 shown in the diagram are formed of a material with low air permeability. Note that the material with low air permeability has been described above, so its description is omitted here.

[0089] (2-2) Ventilation portion 102

[0090] The ventilation portion 102 includes a ventilation opening 30 that can be opened and closed. In the present embodiment, as Figure 7 shown in the diagram, the ventilation portion 102 is divided into two parts (a first ventilation portion 102a and a second ventilation portion 102b) by two ventilation openings 30. The present technology is not limited to this, and the ventilation portion 102 may be a single part or may be divided into at least three parts.

[0091] In this embodiment, the ventilation part 102 has a symmetrical structure, where the ventilation part 102 is divided into two parts (a first ventilation part 102a and a second ventilation part 102b). The adoption of this symmetrical structure enables the sharing of components used to form these two parts, thereby reducing costs.

[0092] In this embodiment, the ventilation opening 30 includes an inflow ventilation opening 30a and an exhaust ventilation opening 30b, where air flows into the odor retention part 10 through the inflow ventilation opening 30a, and the airflow containing odor is discharged to the outside through the exhaust ventilation opening 30b. The opening and closing mechanism is in communication with each of the two ventilation openings 30 (30a and 30b). Regarding the specific structure of the opening and closing mechanism, any mechanism capable of opening and closing each of the two ventilation openings 30 (30a and 30b) can be adopted, and this mechanism can be designed arbitrarily. Specifically, as Figure 7 shown in the illustration, an opening and closing mechanism including a sealing cover 1021 (1021a, 1021b), a shaft 1022, and springs 1023 (1023a, 1023b) can be provided.

[0093] In this embodiment, the ventilation part 102 preferably has a double-layer structure. In this embodiment, the ventilation part 102 includes an inner layer member 31 where the opening and closing mechanism is stored and an outer layer member 32 that forms the outer part of the ventilation part 102. Any material can be used to form the inner layer member 31 and the outer layer member 32. Examples of materials include materials similar to those used to form the above-mentioned outer part 212, so their description is omitted here. In addition, the forms of the inner layer member 31 and the outer layer member 32 can be designed arbitrarily according to, for example, the ventilation opening 30 or the above-mentioned opening and closing mechanism.

[0094] (2 - 3) Connection part 103

[0095] The connection part 103 includes at least two connection openings 40 (40a and 40b) and a partition part 41. The at least two connection openings 40 are formed in the lid part 22 joined to the connection part 103, and the at least two connection openings 40 communicate the odor carrier 101 with the lid part 22. The partition part 41 is arranged upstream of one of the at least two connection openings 40 (40a and 40b).

[0096] In the present embodiment, the two coupling openings 40 (40a and 40b) include a first coupling opening 40a and a second coupling opening 40b. Air is discharged from the coupling portion 103 to the odor carrier 101 through the first coupling opening 40b, and the odor-containing air from the odor carrier 101 is discharged to the coupling portion 103 through the second coupling opening 40b. In this case, the air flowing into the coupling portion 103 through the first ventilation portion 102a is discharged to the odor carrier 101 through the first coupling opening 40a and is mixed with the odor. Thereafter, the odor-containing air flows into the coupling portion 103 through the second coupling opening 40b and is discharged to the outside through the second ventilation portion 102b.

[0097] In the present embodiment, the partition portion 41 is disposed upstream of the second coupling opening 40b among the two coupling openings 40 (40a and 40b). When the partition portion 41 is included, the air flowing into the coupling portion 103 is forced to pass through the odor carrier 101 to become odor-containing air, and the air in the form of odor-containing air flows into the coupling portion 103 again. This enables an odor-containing air flow to be effectively generated.

[0098] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the coupling portion 103 includes an opening / closing mechanism in the connection region where the coupling portion 103 is connected to the ventilation portion 102. This opening / closing mechanism is similar to the opening / closing mechanism described in "(2-2) Ventilation portion 102", and thus its description is omitted here.

[0099] (2-4) Modification example of the coupling portion 103

[0100] Figure 22 The modification example of the coupling portion 103 is illustrated. Figure 22 A in is a cross-sectional view of an example of a modification example of the coupling portion 103, Figure 22 B in is an illustration Figure 22 how the coupling portion 103 of the modification example illustrated in A in is fitted into Figure 19 the cross-sectional view in the modification example illustrated in. Figure 22 C in is an illustration Figure 22 a perspective view of the back surface of the coupling portion 103 of the modification example illustrated in A in. In the present embodiment, Figure 19 the inlet 216 and / or the outlet 214 of the lid portion 213 for the inner layer portion in the modification example of the inner layer portion 211 illustrated in can be sealed with a material exhibiting high drug resistance and / or a material with low air permeability until use begins (preferably, until just before use), so that the inner layer portion 211 is hermetically sealed. Then, the material can be opened by, for example, piercing or puncturing at the start of use. Specifically, the following is an exemplary mechanism. As Figure 22As shown in the illustration in C, the coupling portion 103 including the protruding portion 1034 on the back surface of the lid portion 22 is set for the lid portion 213 of the inner layer portion. When the lid portion 22 is fitted into the coupling portion 103, the outlet 214 of the lid portion 213 for the inner layer portion is opened by piercing or puncturing, for example, using the protruding portion 1034. Note that the low air permeability material and / or the low air permeability material have been described above, and thus their description is omitted here.

[0101] (2-5) Others

[0102] The change in the capacity of the odor carrier 101 of the odor holding portion 10 enables the amount of odor to be held by the odor holding portion to be changed as needed. As a result, there can be multiple types of odor holding portions 10 according to the amount of odor, and different types of odor holding portions 10 can be included for the corresponding odor presentation module 1. In addition, it is preferable to change the capacity of the odor carrier 101 without affecting the size of the housing 13 or the joint portion of the housing 13. Specifically, it is preferable to change the capacity in the longitudinal direction of the housing 13.

[0103] In addition, as described above, the odor holding portion 10 itself can be a replaceable cartridge-type odor holding portion, that is, the odor holding portion 10 can also be replaced independently of the airflow forming portion 11 and the controller 12 described later. Therefore, when the odor holding portion 10 no longer has an odor, the user can simply discard the odor holding portion 10. This improves usability and also takes into account the global environment.

[0104] (2-6) Example of odor emission operation by the odor holding portion 10

[0105] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional conceptual diagram illustrating how odor is emitted from the odor holding portion 10 of the present embodiment. The following is a reference to Figure 7 Describe an example of the emission operation of the odor-containing airflow through the odor holding portion 10. Note that Figure 7 K in indicates the flow of the airflow.

[0106] In the present embodiment, when the ventilation portion 102 is opened while the odor is held in the odor carrier 101, air K flows in from the outside into the ventilation portion 102. The inflowing air K flows into the coupling portion 103 and passes through one of the coupling openings, that is, the coupling opening 40a, and the airflow K is conveyed to the odor. When the airflow K passes through the impregnation member 20, the odor is added to the airflow K, thereby discharging the odor-containing airflow K. In this state, the discharged odor-containing airflow K flows into the coupling portion 103 through the other of the coupling portions, that is, the coupling opening 40b. Therefore, the odor-containing airflow K is discharged to the outside.

[0107] Specifically, in the present embodiment, the air vents 30 (30a, 30b) include an opening / closing mechanism, which includes a sealing cover, a shaft, and a spring. Similarly, the connecting portion 103 also includes an opening / closing mechanism, which includes a sealing cover, a shaft, and a spring. For example, the pusher X is inserted from the lower part of the cartridge 10 on the side of the airflow forming portion 11, for example, to be coupled to the shaft. Thus, these opening / closing mechanisms can be controlled.

[0108] Note that Figure 7 Only the state in which the pusher X and the shaft are coupled to each other is illustrated. When the pusher X is pushed in the state of being coupled to the shaft, the pusher X presses the first sealing cover 1021a toward the inside of the first ventilation portion 102a. Then, the inflow air vent 30a is opened, and the air K flows into the first ventilation portion 102a. At this time, the first sealing cover 1021a contracts the first spring 1023a.

[0109] When the first sealing cover 1021a is pressed toward the inside of the first ventilation portion 102a, the shaft 1022 mounted on the first sealing cover 1021a moves in the direction of the connecting portion 103. The shaft 1022 presses the sealing cover 1031 toward the inside of the connecting portion 103, and the air K in the first ventilation portion 102a flows into the connecting portion 103. At this time, the sealing cover 1031 contracts the spring 1033.

[0110] Due to the presence of the partition portion 41, first, the air K flowing into the connecting portion 103 flows into the odor carrier 101 through the first connection opening 40a provided in the lid portion 22, and is conveyed to the odor held by the odor carrier 101. As a result, when the air flow passes through the impregnation member 20, the odor is added to the air flow, and thus the air flow K containing the odor is discharged. The air flow K containing the odor flows into the connecting portion 103b again through the second connection opening 40b provided in the lid portion 22.

[0111] When the sealing cover 1031 is pressed toward the inside of the connecting portion 103, the shaft 1032 mounted on the sealing cover 1031 moves in the direction of the second ventilation portion 102b. The shaft 1032 presses the second sealing cover 1021b toward the inside of the second ventilation portion 102b, and the odor-containing air in the connecting portion 103 flows into the second ventilation portion 102b. At this time, the second sealing cover 1021b contracts the second spring 1023b.

[0112] In the present embodiment, the second ventilation portion 102b communicates with the discharge air vent 30b. Therefore, the odor-containing air flow K flowing into the second ventilation portion 102b is discharged to the outside through the discharge air vent 30b.

[0113] When the pushing of the pusher X is released after discharging the odor-containing air current K to the outside, the first seal cover 1021a returns to its original state due to the restoring force of the contracted first spring 1023a. In addition, the seal cover 1031 returns to its original state due to the restoring force of the spring 1033, and the second seal cover 1021b returns to its original state due to the restoring force of the second spring 1023b.

[0114] (3) Air current forming section 11

[0115] The air current forming section 11 forms an odor-containing air current and discharges the air current to the outside through a discharge opening. The air current forming section 11 includes a pusher X coupled to the shaft of the odor holding section 10, a drive source for driving the pusher X, and a drive source fixing portion for fixing the drive source. A folded shape memory alloy SMA is provided around the tip of the pusher X to form an SMA slider that slides and folds the shape memory alloy. The drive source fixing portion fixes the shaft of the odor holding section 10 and the drive source such that the pusher X is located at the position where the pusher X is coupled to the shaft.

[0116] In addition, the air current forming section 11 as a whole is held in a housing 13 described later, and wiring capable of supplying power is connected to the drive source. As Figure 3 shown in the illustration in the figure, power can be supplied to the drive source from a battery 14 (including a storage battery) such as a battery pack stored in the housing 13 through the wiring, or power can be supplied to the drive source from a power source provided outside the housing 13 through the wiring. Note that the form of the battery 14 is not particularly limited and can be arbitrarily designed according to, for example, the form of the housing 13. Examples of the form of the battery 14 can include a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially conical shape, a substantially cylindrical shape, and a substantially square column shape.

[0117] Due to the expansion and contraction of the shape memory alloy SMA, the pusher X can move in the housing 13 in the direction in which the pusher X extends. The pusher X can be of any form that enables the pusher X to squeeze the shaft of the odor holding section 10. Examples of the form of the pusher X can include a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially conical shape, a substantially cylindrical shape, and a substantially square column shape.

[0118] The shape memory alloy SMA is folded into a U shape by the SMA slider provided around the front end of the pusher X and passes through the pusher X. Both ends of the shape memory alloy SMA are fixed to the rear end of the pusher X. In the present embodiment, the actuator as the drive source is not limited to being formed using the shape memory alloy SMA. Any linear movement mechanism that linearly moves the pusher X can be adopted, such as an electric motor, a solenoid, a linear slide actuator, a pneumatic (air pump) actuator, or a small electromagnetic actuator. Here, the linear movement mechanism includes not only a mechanism in which a single member linearly moves but also a mechanism in which a part of a plurality of coupled members linearly moves.

[0119] In addition, in addition to the driving member X, the drive source, and the drive source fixing portion, the air flow forming portion 11 may further include a blowing portion (not shown). Examples of the blowing portion include an axial flow fan, a blower, and a centrifugal fan. In addition, alternatively, the blowing portion may be a combination of a diaphragm pump and an air flow expanding mechanism, that is, the blowing portion may particularly be a combination of a diaphragm pump (such as a micro blower) using a piezoelectric element or a motor and an air flow expanding mechanism. The blowing portion may be configured such that the air flow formed by the diaphragm pump flows through the flow path after being expanded by the air flow expanding mechanism.

[0120] Note that when using the blowing portion, for example, depending on the type of the blowing portion or the number of blowing portions installed, noise may be generated. For example, physical stimulation and / or chemical stimulation is applied to a liquid to vaporize the liquid to inflate the balloon and generate gas. Thus, the above problems can be solved.

[0121] Specifically, as Figure 23 shown in the illustration, for example, a heat stimulus is applied to the liquid located in the balloon using a heater, a thermistor, or a Peltier element to vaporize the liquid to generate gas, causing the balloon to expand and thereby generating and discharging air. Thus, the blowing source is silenced. In addition, when the temperature in the balloon becomes high, the balloon remains inflated. Therefore, there is no need to worry about continuous odor emission. This also makes it possible to prevent, for example, odor from continuously emitting in an enclosed space (such as in a vehicle).

[0122] As the liquid in the balloon, a liquid that easily thermally expands is preferably used. Specific examples of the liquid in the balloon include alcohols such as methanol and ethanol, but the present technology is not particularly limited thereto. In addition, as Figure 23 shown in the illustration, a check valve may be provided in the balloon.

[0123] There is another solution. For example, as Figure 24 shown in the illustration, pressure is stored in the balloon in a state where the operating voltage of the blowing source is relatively reduced, and the pressure is discharged when air is exhausted. Thus, a blowing source that generates reduced noise can also be obtained. Note that Figure 24 A schematically illustrates an example of an embodiment of the blowing source as viewed from the front, Figure 24 B schematically illustrates Figure 24 the back of A of. In addition, based on the same principle as described above, noise reduction can be achieved using the syringe movement by a linear motion actuator. In addition, a check valve (not shown) may be provided for the balloon shown in Figure 24 B.

[0124] In addition, for example, in a metal piston, a liquid is instantaneously vaporized by discharging (such as spark discharge, DC arc discharge, or glow discharge), and air is instantaneously exhausted. Thus, the blowing source is silenced.

[0125] (4) Deformation example of the air flow forming part 11

[0126] Figure 25 Examples for illustrating the deformation example of the air flow forming part 11 are shown. Figure 25 A in [figure] is a front view, Figure 25 B in [figure] is a sectional view, Figure 25 C in [figure] is Figure 25 an enlarged view of a part of B in [figure]. In Figure 25 the deformation example illustrated in [figure], the air flow forming part 11 includes a pump 111 that presses the shaft of the odor holding part 10 and a movable part 112 that moves the pump. Note that the pump 111 in this deformation example is a pump having a contact area with the odor holding part 10 (particularly the first seal cover 1021a) larger than that of the above-mentioned pusher X. In other words, the pump 111 is preferably not coupled to the shaft of the odor holding part 10.

[0127] In this deformation example, the entire air flow forming part 1 can be held in a housing 13 described later, and a wire for supplying power is connected to the drive source. Through this wire, power can be supplied from a battery 14 (including a storage unit) such as a battery pack stored in the housing 13 to the drive source, or through this wire, power can be supplied from a power source provided outside the housing 13 to the drive source.

[0128] In this deformation example, the front end of the pump 111 is not coupled to the shaft but contacts the first seal cover 1021a including the shaft. This causes the first seal cover 1021a to open. This enables a reduction in the number of components, thereby making the size of the air flow forming part 11 smaller. In addition, an air flow can be effectively formed.

[0129] The pump 111 can be in any form that enables the front end to contact the first seal cover 1021a. For example, the pump 111 can be in a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially conical shape, a substantially cylindrical tube shape, a substantially square column shape, or a shape obtained by combining at least one of them. In addition, for example, the pump 111 can be a shape combining cylinders of multiple different sizes. Further, as needed, the pump 111 can include a return spring, as Figure 25 illustrated in [figure].

[0130] Any movable part that can move the pump in the linear movement direction can be used as the movable part 112. Examples of the movable part 112 include an actuator formed using a shape memory alloy SMA, a motor, a solenoid, a linear slide actuator, a pneumatic (air pump) actuator, and an actuator including a small electromagnet, etc. Here, the linear movement mechanism includes not only a mechanism in which a single member moves linearly but also a mechanism in which a part of a plurality of coupled members moves linearly.

[0131] (5) Controller 12

[0132] The controller 12 controls the operation of the air flow forming unit 11. The controller 12 can be disposed at any position enabling the controller 12 to control the operation of the air flow forming unit 11, and can be disposed at any position in the housing 13 described later. For example, the controller 12 can be disposed at a position in the longitudinal direction of the drive source fixing portion.

[0133] For example, the controller 12 controls at least one of the distance at which the odor is presented, the range in which the odor is presented, the direction in which the odor is discharged, the time period during which the odor is discharged, or the concentration of the odor presented, and controls the air flow forming unit 11 so that the air flow forming unit 11 discharges the odor. This control can be performed, for example, by changing the speed at which the pusher X or the pump can be moved, the time period during which the pusher X or the pump can be moved, or the number of times the pusher X or the pump can be moved. For example, an instruction is issued to the controller 12 through a wired or wireless network using a linked terminal. Specifically, the terminal is linked to an application (such as a native application, a web application, a hybrid application, and a built-in application), and is controlled according to the program in the application.

[0134] (6) Housing 13

[0135] The housing 13 includes at least an odor holding unit 10, an air flow forming unit 11, and a controller 12. In addition, in the present embodiment, the housing 13 includes a joining portion enabling the housing 13 to be joined to other housings.

[0136] As a material for forming the housing 13, any material can be adopted. For example, metals such as stainless steel (stainless steel for steel (SUS)) or aluminum; resins such as polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, phenolic resin, olefin resin, acrylic resin, polyurethane resin, ABS resin, polyetheretherketone (PEEK) resin, polyoxymethylene (POM) resin, fluororesin, cycloolefin polymer resin, or polyimide resin; pottery; porcelain; or ceramics can be used as a material for forming the housing 13, or at least one of them can be arbitrarily combined to be used as a material for forming the housing 13.

[0137] The housing 13 can also be in any form enabling the housing 13 to include at least the odor holding unit 10, the air flow forming unit 11, and the controller 12 therein, and can be arbitrarily designed. For example, a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially polygonal cylindrical shape having a substantially polygonal cross section (substantially triangular or rectangular cross section, or a cross section having five or more sides), a substantially conical shape, or a substantially polygonal pyramidal shape having a substantially polygonal cross section (substantially triangular or rectangular cross section, or a cross section having five or more sides) can be used as the form of the housing 13, or at least one of them can be arbitrarily combined to be used as the form of the housing 13.

[0138] In this embodiment, as described above, the housing 13 includes a joining portion (not shown). Preferably, the other housing is the housing 13 that includes the odor retention portion 10, the air flow forming portion 11, and the controller 12. In other words, the other housing corresponds to the other odor presentation module 1. As the number of the other housings to be joined, any number can be adopted, and the housing 13 can be joined to at least one other housing as needed.

[0139] Preferably, the joining portion is formed such that the housings can be detachably joined to each other as needed. Specifically, the joining portion can be formed by providing a material including a magnetic member inside or outside the housing 13. In addition, the joining portion can be formed by providing a fitting mechanism for fitting the housing 13 on the outer surface of the housing 13. The following are examples of the fitting mechanism. An uneven shape is provided on the outer surface of the housing 13, and the uneven shapes are fitted to each other. In addition, the joining portion can also be formed by threading (external thread or internal thread) the outer surface of the housing 13; by including a cam latch handle or a locking member having a snap structure, for example; or by using an adhesive layer having an adhesiveness that allows the adhesive layer to be removed. The outer surface can be, for example, one of the upper surface, the bottom surface, the lateral side surface, and the longitudinal side surface of the housing 13.

[0140] (7) Connection to an external unit

[0141] The odor presentation module 1 according to this embodiment can be connected to an external unit via a wired or wireless network. In this embodiment, the connection to the external unit is established such that the external unit can be operated at any timing.

[0142] Any unit can be used as an external unit that can be connected to the odor presentation module 1. For example, a fan unit that generates an air flow, a power supply unit that supplies power, a mixing unit, a sensing unit, a deodorizing unit that performs deodorization (including also a case where the deodorizing unit is arranged away from the odor presentation module 1), an air flow control unit, a blowing unit that generates an air flow in the deodorizing direction, a device for controlling attitude holding, a storage unit that stores information related to the odor presentation module 1, or a charging unit can be used as an external unit, or at least one of them can be arbitrarily combined to be used as an external unit.

[0143] For example, the sensing unit performs not only biometric sensing including sensing related to, for example, human body detection, body temperature, heart rate, sweating amount, and face recognition, but also sensing related to the surrounding environment including sensing related to, for example, temperature, humidity, brightness, distance, and odor. In addition, any device that can fix the position of the odor presentation module 1 can be used as a device for controlling posture maintenance, and examples of such a device include a bracket, a clip, a tripod, and a hanging mechanism. In addition, examples of such a device can be formed using, for example, a rod or plate-like member, or can be formed using, for example, a shape memory material.

[0144] For example, the air flow control unit can be an air flow control mechanism provided around the discharge opening of the odor presentation module 1 and controlling the discharge direction and / or discharge intensity of the air flow discharged through the discharge opening. Specific examples of the air flow control unit include a shutter and a wind direction adjustment structure that control the direction of the discharged air flow. In addition, the discharge direction and / or discharge intensity of the air flow can be controlled by forming a wall using ultrasonic waves and discharging the odor-containing air flow only to a certain part.

[0145] When the odor presentation system 2 described later includes a plurality of odor presentation modules 1, the mixing unit is used to mix a plurality of odors as needed.

[0146] The odor presentation module 1 according to the present embodiment may further include a communication unit (not shown) that is wirelessly connected to an external unit when a wireless connection with the external unit is established. In this case, the communication unit can be wirelessly connected to the external unit using a communication method such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi, or SIM communication. However, the present technology is not limited to these communication methods.

[0147] (8) Information related to the odor presentation module 1

[0148] The odor presentation module 1 according to the present embodiment can hold information related to the odor presentation module 1. Examples of information related to the odor presentation module 1 include the ID of the odor presentation module 1, the position of the odor presentation module 1, the past usage history of the odor presentation module 1, the manufacturing date of the odor presentation module 1, the manufacturing location of the odor presentation module 1, whether the odor has been discharged, the time period during which the odor has been discharged, the type of the odor, the concentration of the odor, the remaining amount of the odor, the expiration date of the odor, the manufacturing date and manufacturing location of the odor, and the ID of the installed odor holding unit 10. However, the present technology is not limited to these information. Note that the odor holding unit 10 can search for information about the EEPROM and the ID of the odor holding unit in a database on the Web, and can download information (such as odor information) registered in the database to record information therein.

[0149] A storage device (not shown) may be provided in the odor presentation module 1, and information related to the odor presentation module 1 may be stored in this storage device, or a connection may be established with an external storage unit via a wired or wireless network, and the information may be stored in this storage unit.

[0150] Information related to the odor presentation module 1 may be fed back to at least one of the above external units via a wireless or wired network. When the information related to the odor presentation module 1 is fed back to an external unit, for example, the concentration of the odor is adjusted, the direction of the emitted odor is adjusted, an instruction is issued to replace the odor holding unit 10 or an alarm of the odor presentation module 1, and the presentation of the odor by the odor presentation module 1 is started, stopped, or ended. However, the present technology is not particularly limited thereto.

[0151] In addition, not only is the odor holding unit 10 or the odor presentation module 1 controlled due to the above feedback, but the odor holding unit 10 or the odor presentation module 1 may work together with an external unit, and the odor holding unit 10 or the odor presentation module 1 and the external unit may be simultaneously controlled due to the above feedback. For example, the adjustment of the concentration of the odor by the odor presentation module 1 and the control of the emission direction and / or emission intensity of the air flow by the air flow control unit may be performed simultaneously.

[0152] (9) Air passage 15

[0153] The odor presentation module 1 according to the present embodiment may further include an air passage 15 that allows air to flow from one of the two ends of the odor presentation module 1 to the other of the two ends. The inclusion of the air passage 15 enables the air flow to also pass through the odor presentation module 1. For example, by using, for example, an auxiliary air flow, the air flow containing the odor can be transported more effectively.

[0154] Specifically, the air passage 15 is continuously formed in the longitudinal direction of the odor presentation module 1 from one of the two ends of the odor presentation module 1 to the other of the two ends. The odor holding unit 10, the air flow forming unit 11, and the controller 12 are housed in the housing 13, and these structural elements are located around the air passage 15. In other words, the air passage 15 is formed while avoiding these structural elements.

[0155] (10) Others

[0156] The outer surface of the odor presentation module 1 may be marked using, for example, a logo or an LED lamp, and a pre-colored housing may be used. When an LED lamp can be used to mark the odor presentation module 1, there may be a temporal change in the color of the odor presentation module 1. The marking may be associated with information such as the odor held by the odor presentation module 1, the concentration of the odor, the manufacturing date of the odor, the remaining amount of the odor, and the remaining life of the battery. In addition, the marking may be performed merely to provide a design quality and not be associated with this information.

[0157] Marking can be performed at any position on the outer surface of the odor presentation module 1. Examples of such positions include the upper surface, the bottom surface, the lateral sides, and the longitudinal sides. Preferably, the marking can be performed longitudinally on the longitudinal side.

[0158] 2. Second Embodiment (Odor Presentation System 2)

[0159] Reference Figures 8 to 15 Describe an example of the configuration of the odor presentation system 2 according to the second embodiment of the present technology. Figures 8 to 11 FIG. is a perspective view of the odor presentation system 2 according to the present embodiment as viewed from various angles when the odor presentation system 2 includes a single odor presentation module 1.

[0160] Figures 12 to 15 FIG. is a perspective view of the odor presentation system 2 according to the present embodiment as viewed from various angles when the odor presentation system 2 includes a plurality of odor presentation modules 1.

[0161] The odor presentation system 2 according to the present embodiment includes at least one of the above-described odor presentation modules 1 and uses any one of the at least one odor presentation module 1 to present an odor. In this case, the number of any one of the at least one odor presentation module 1 can be determined as needed.

[0162] The odor presentation system 2 according to the present embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0163] As Figures 12 to 15 illustrated in the figure, this embodiment also includes a case where the odor presentation modules 1 are joined to each other. For example, the joining is performed using the joining portions of the odor presentation modules 1. For example, the odor presentation modules 1 can be joined in a grid pattern in the top direction, the X direction, the Y direction, the Z direction, or all directions obtained by arbitrarily combining at least one of them. The number of the joined odor presentation modules 1 is not particularly limited either. For example, in Figures 12 to 15 FIG., the odor presentation modules 1 are arranged obliquely with respect to the horizontal plane to be joined in a grid pattern.

[0164] In addition, as Figures 8 to 15 illustrated in the figure, the odor presentation system 2 can include, for example, a base 200 for fixing the odor presentation module 1 in a desired direction, such as fixing the odor presentation module 1 obliquely with respect to the horizontal plane.

[0165] When the odor presentation system 2 includes at least one odor presentation module 1, this enables scalability and flexibility in terms of the number of odor presentation modules 1, the arrangement of the odor presentation modules 1, and the control of the odor presentation modules 1. This enables not only the emission of odors into the entire space, but also the dispersion of odors only in a small cubic or spherical space. This can be achieved by using odor presentation modules 1 that are independent of each other, dispersing the odor presentation modules 1 as needed, operating the odor presentation modules 1 in an integrated or independent manner, and emitting odors only from at least one specific odor presentation module 1.

[0166] In addition, the number of odor presentation modules 1 can be arbitrarily increased or decreased. Therefore, the required number of odors to be presented can be arbitrarily provided. In addition, as described later, the odor presentation modules 1 can be independently controlled. This also results in an advantage in terms of providing a high degree of time responsiveness.

[0167] In the present embodiment, the odor presentation modules 1 of the odor presentation system 2 are joined to each other and can be independently controlled. Specifically, the odor presentation system 2 controls each odor presentation module 1 by connecting to the controller 12 of the odor presentation module 1 via a wired or wireless network and sending a drive signal to the controller 12. In the present embodiment, each odor presentation module 1 includes a controller 12. Therefore, the odor presentation modules 1 can be independently controlled. This enables any combination of odor presentation modules 1 to be controlled simultaneously. In other words, the present technology can provide not only a flexible design, but also a unified design of the control mechanism and a unified design of the control management.

[0168] For example, a drive signal is sent via a wired or wireless network using a terminal linked to an external unit such as the above-mentioned storage unit or the odor presentation module 1. For example, a drive signal is sent simultaneously via a wired or wireless network using a linked terminal. Specifically, the terminal is linked to an application and is controlled according to the program in the application. Note that in the present technology, partial control can of course be performed when simultaneous control is not required.

[0169] Note that any combination can be adopted as the combination of the odor presentation modules 1. For example, odor presentation modules 1 with different odors or odor presentation modules 1 with different odor concentrations can be joined together.

[0170] In addition, in the present embodiment, when the odor presentation module 1 further includes an air passage for circulating air from one end of the odor presentation module 1 to the other end of the two ends, the odor presentation system can supply air through one of the two ends to generate an auxiliary air flow for assisting the air flow containing the odor. This enables the effective conveyance of the air flow containing the odor in the direction in which the air flow containing the odor is desired to be conveyed. Specifically, it can be conceived that, for example, a fan can be provided in the odor presentation system 2 and the fan can be started in response to the odor presented by the odor presentation module 1, or the odor presentation of the odor presentation module 1 can be closely related to a fan unit connected to the odor presentation system 2 through a wired or wireless network. However, the present technology is not particularly limited thereto. In addition, there is no particular limitation on the installation position of the fan unit in this case, and the fan unit can be installed at any location according to, for example, the distance at which the odor is desired to be presented.

[0171] The odor presentation system 2 can be connected to at least one auxiliary air flow generation module (not shown) through a wired or wireless network, and can use the auxiliary air flow generation module to generate an auxiliary air flow at any timing. Examples of the auxiliary air flow generation module include small fans, but the present technology is not particularly limited thereto. In addition, the housing of the auxiliary air flow generation module can be in a form similar to or analogous to the form of the odor presentation module 1. In this case, the auxiliary air flow generation module can be joined to the odor presentation module 1 or the auxiliary air flow generation module. Regarding the joining, as in the case of the joining portion of the housing 13, the joining portion is preferably formed such that the housings can be detachably formed with each other as needed. Specifically, the joining portion can be formed by providing a material including a magnetic member inside or outside the housing of the auxiliary air flow generation module. In addition, the joining portion can be formed by providing a fitting mechanism for fitting the housings on the outer surface of the housing.

[0172] Similar to the case of the odor presentation module 1, the odor presentation system 2 can be connected to an external unit through a wired or wireless network. In this case, the odor presentation modules 1 in the odor presentation system 2 can be independently connected to the external unit, a part of the odor presentation modules 1 can be connected together to the external unit, or all the odor presentation modules 1 included in the odor presentation system 2 can be simultaneously connected to the external unit.

[0173] Any external unit can be adopted as the external unit connectable to the odor presentation system 2, and examples of the external unit are similar to the examples described in “(7) Connection to the external unit” of “1. First Embodiment (Odor Presentation Module 1)”. Therefore, the description thereof is omitted. Among the above external units, the odor presentation system 2 is connected to a deodorization unit through a wired or wireless network, and can use the deodorization unit to perform a deodorization operation at any timing (such as the timing after the odor presentation module 1 discharges the air flow containing the odor). The timing can be determined based on the information fed back through a wired or wireless network.

[0174] In this case, any location can be adopted as the installation location of the deodorizing unit, and the deodorizing unit can be installed before or after the odor presentation system 2, or at a position several centimeters or several meters away from the odor presentation system 2. Examples of the deodorizing unit include conventionally known air supply devices, and mechanisms that move in the vertical direction, horizontal direction, or rotational direction due to air flow or by using a power source such as an actuator, although the present technology is not particularly limited thereto.

[0175] In addition, the odor presentation system 2 is connected to the charging unit via a wired or wireless network, and the charging unit can be used to charge at least one odor presentation module simultaneously. This makes it possible to provide a highly available system in which the odor presentation modules 1 can be controlled independently of each other and at least one odor presentation module can be charged simultaneously. Examples of the charging unit include conventionally known chargers (including contact or non-contact chargers), although the present technology is not particularly limited thereto.

[0176] In addition, the odor presentation system 2 is connected to at least one fan unit via a wired or wireless network, and the fan unit can be used to control the distance at which the odor is presented. In other words, the distance at which the odor is presented can vary between a short distance (e.g., from 15 cm to 30 cm) and a medium distance (from 1 m to 3 m). Examples of the fan unit include conventionally known air supply devices, and various air supply devices can be used in combination according to the distance at which the odor is presented. However, the present technology is not particularly limited thereto. In addition, when the type of the air supply part included in the air flow forming part 11 of the odor presentation module 1 is changed as appropriate or the air supply parts are combined as appropriate, this makes it possible to control the distance at which the odor is presented without using an external unit.

[0177] In addition, in the present technology, as in the case of the above-described auxiliary air flow generation module, the external unit referred to in the above description can be modularized, and the housing of the module obtained by modularization can be configured to be engageable with the odor presentation module 1 or the module obtained by modularization. Regarding the engagement, as in the case of the engagement part of the housing 13, the engagement part is preferably formed such that the housings can be detachably formed with each other as needed. Specifically, the engagement part can be formed by providing a material including a magnetic member inside or outside the housing of the odor presentation module 1. In addition, the engagement part can be formed by providing a fitting mechanism for fitting the housings on the outer surface of the housing. In addition, in this case, other odor presentation modules 1 can also be controlled simultaneously using linked terminals via a wired or wireless network.

[0178] In addition, in the present technology, the odor presentation modules 1 included in the odor presentation system 2 can be connected to each other via a wired or wireless network. Specifically, for example, a part or all of the odor presentation modules 1 establish a near-field connection with each other (such as wireless magnetic communication using, for example, magnets in the housing 13), which enables control signals to be provided to all the presentation modules 1.

[0179] 3. Third Embodiment (Information Processing Device)

[0180] The information processing device according to the present embodiment includes a terminal linked to the odor presentation module 1. The odor presentation module 1 includes an odor holding unit 10 that holds an odor, an air flow forming unit 11 that forms an air flow containing the odor and discharges the air flow to the outside through a discharge opening of the odor presentation module 1, a controller 12 that controls the operation of the air flow forming unit 11, and a housing 13 that includes the odor holding unit 10, the air flow forming unit 11, and the controller 12. The housing 13 includes a joining portion that enables the housing 13 to be joined to other housings 13; and a processor that receives information related to the state of the odor presentation module 1 and available to the user, performs processing for outputting and storing the information, and generates signals related to the output and storage of the information.

[0181] The information processing device according to the present embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0182] In the present embodiment, the terminal is linked to an application that controls the odor presentation module 1. Examples of the application include a native application, a web application, a hybrid application, and a built-in application. Examples of the terminal include a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a computer, a tablet computer, a smart phone, a personal digital assistant, a game console, and a television. However, the present technology is not particularly limited thereto.

[0183] Use Figure 16 The flowchart shown in the accompanying drawings describes the processing performed using the information processing device according to the present embodiment.

[0184] First, the terminal is connected to the odor presentation module 1 (the number is not particularly limited) (S101). In S101, the terminal can be linked not only to the odor presentation module 1 but also to the above-mentioned external unit and other odor presentation modules 1. Next, the odor presentation module 1 is operated using the terminal via a wired or wireless network (S102). This operation enables not only the opening and closing of the odor presentation module 1 and the operation of the controller 12 of the odor presentation module 1 (including control of at least one of the above-mentioned distance of odor presentation, the above-mentioned range of odor presentation, the above-mentioned direction of odor discharge, the above-mentioned time period of odor discharge, or the above-mentioned concentration of the presented odor), but also the simultaneous operation of the above-mentioned external unit and other odor presentation modules 1.

[0185] Next, in the information device according to the present embodiment, a terminal linked to the odor presentation module 1 acquires information related to the state of the odor presentation module 1 and available to the user through a wireless or wired network (S103). At this time, the acquired information is output and stored by the processor of the present embodiment to generate a signal related to the output and storage of the information, so as to send the signal to the network (S104). Here, information other than the information related to the state of the odor presentation module 1 and available to the user can also be acquired simultaneously. Examples of the information related to the state of the odor presentation module 1 and available to the user include the position of the odor presentation module 1 (for example, conceptually also including the installation position and installation space), the type of odor, the concentration of odor, the remaining amount of odor, and the time period of odor emission.

[0186] Next, for example, a target area is selected on the UI (see Figure 17 ) displayed on the display unit of the terminal (S105). Specifically, it can be conceived that any block can be selected from a screen that divides the space into a grid pattern, or any block can be specified from a block that is not rectangular but spherical set in the space. However, the present technology is not particularly limited thereto. Then, using the UI displayed on the display unit of the terminal, the conditions regarding the space represented by the selected block are input to the terminal (S106), and examples of the conditions include the type of desired odor, the concentration of odor, the remaining amount of odor, and the time period of odor emission. Note that in the present embodiment, the processes of S105 and S106 are performed in a random order, and the process of S105 can be performed after the process of S106.

[0187] Next, based on the input information about the user acquired using the terminal and the information related to the state of the presentation module 1, the optimal conditions for each odor display module 1 are calculated (S107). In the present embodiment, the use of these two types of information enables the optimal conditions of the odor presentation module 1 to be obtained with high accuracy. In addition, a drive signal is generated based on the calculation result and sent to the controller 12 of the odor presentation module 1 (S108). In addition, drive signals other than the drive signal can also be generated, and the other generated drive signals can be sent to the above-mentioned external unit or other odor presentation modules 1 at a similar timing.

[0188] In the odor presentation module 1, the controller 12 included in the odor presentation module 1 operates based on the received drive signal and discharges an air current containing odor (S109). In addition, when discharging the air current containing odor, a report indicating that the air current containing odor has been discharged can be output not only to the controller 12 of the odor presentation module 1 but also to the above-mentioned external unit or other odor presentation modules 1, although this is not shown in the Figure 16 flowchart. For example, this enables the deodorization unit to be started or an auxiliary air current to be generated when no odor is being conveyed.

[0189] 4. Fourth Embodiment (Odor Presentation Module Control System 3)

[0190] Figure 18 FIG. illustrates a configuration example of the odor presentation module control system 3 according to the fourth embodiment of the present technology. The odor presentation module control system 3 according to the present embodiment includes at least one odor presentation module 1; a terminal linked to the odor presentation module 1; and an information processing device including a processor that receives information related to the state of the module and available to the user, performs processing for outputting and storing the information, and generates a signal related to the output and storage of the information. Note that, in Figure 18 , the information processing device is illustrated as an "external unit" in the figure because the information processing device is an example of an external unit.

[0191] "At least one odor presentation module 1", "terminal", and "information processing device" are similar to those described in "1. First Embodiment (Odor Presentation Module 1)" to "3. Third Embodiment (Information Processing Device)". Therefore, their descriptions are omitted. Note that, in Figure 18 , all the presentation modules 1 are connected to the external unit. However, the present technology is not limited to this, and one or a limited part of the odor presentation modules 1 may be connected to the external unit. In addition, as described above, a part or all of the odor presentation modules 1 establish a near-field connection with each other, which enables a control signal to be provided to all the presentation modules 1.

[0192] 5. Applications of the Odor Presentation Module 1 and the Odor Presentation System 2

[0193] The odor presentation module 1 and the odor presentation system 2 are used, for example, for olfactory tests or olfactory training (olfactory stimulation therapy). Note that olfactory training used herein is interpreted broadly and may include training for, for example, examinations for olfactory measurement operators, examinations for sommeliers, and certifications for aromatherapy. In addition, the odor presentation module 1 and the odor presentation system 2 can be used for flavor simulation in the development of food and beverage products. In addition, the odor presentation module 1 and the odor presentation system 2 may be included in automobiles, head-mounted displays, or relaxation products such as neck pillows or eye pillows. In addition, the odor presentation module 1 and the odor presentation system 2 can be included, for example, in products for attracting customers, such as vending machines, digital signage, or robots.

[0194] Note that the present technology may adopt the following configuration.

[0195] [1] An odor presentation module, comprising:

[0196] An odor holding unit that holds an odor;

[0197] An air flow forming part that forms an air flow containing an odor and discharges the air flow to the outside through a discharge opening of the odor presentation module;

[0198] A controller that controls the operation of the air flow forming part; and

[0199] A housing that includes the odor holding part, the air flow forming part, and the controller, and the housing includes a joining part that enables the housing to be joined to other housings.

[0200] [2] The odor presentation module according to [1], wherein

[0201] The joining part is detachable.

[0202] [3] The odor presentation module according to [2], wherein

[0203] The joining part includes a magnetic member and / or includes a fitting mechanism for fitting the housings to each other.

[0204] [4] The odor presentation module according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein

[0205] The controller controls at least one of the distance of odor presentation, the range of odor presentation, the direction of odor discharge, the time period of fragrance discharge, or the concentration of the presented odor.

[0206] [5] The odor presentation module according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein

[0207] The odor presentation module can be connected to an external unit.

[0208] [6] The odor presentation module according to [5], further comprising

[0209] A communication part that is wirelessly connected to the external unit.

[0210] [7] The odor presentation module according to [5] or [6], wherein

[0211] An air flow control mechanism is provided around the discharge opening of the module, and the air flow control mechanism controls the discharge direction and / or discharge intensity of the air flow discharged through the discharge opening.

[0212] [8] The odor presentation module according to any one of [5] to [7], wherein

[0213] The odor presentation module holds information about the module.

[0214] [9] The odor presentation module according to [8], wherein

[0215] The information is fed back to the external unit.

[0216]

[10] The odor presentation module according to any one of [1] to [9] further includes

[0217] An air passage that allows air to flow from one of the two ends of the odor presentation module to the other end of the two ends.

[0218]

[11] The odor presentation module according to any one of [1] to

[10] , wherein

[0219] The odor holding part further includes

[0220] An inner layer part including an impregnated member carrying the odor, and

[0221] A lid part for the inner layer part corresponding to the inner layer part, and

[0222] Part or all of the inner layer part and the lid part for the inner layer part are formed of a material showing high chemical resistance and / or a material with low air permeability.

[0223]

[12] The odor presentation module according to any one of [1] to

[11] , wherein

[0224] The air flow forming part further includes a silent air supply source or an air supply source that generates reduced noise.

[0225]

[13] The odor presentation module according to any one of [1] to

[12] , wherein

[0226] The air flow forming part causes air to flow into the odor holding part through a linear moving pusher or a pump, and the pump has a larger contact area with the odor holding part than the pusher.

[0227]

[14] The odor presentation module according to

[11] , wherein

[0228] The material showing high chemical resistance and / or the material with low air permeability is at least one of stainless steel (stainless steel for steel (SUS)), aluminum, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), or glass.

[0229]

[15] The odor presentation module according to

[12] , wherein

[0230] The silent air supply source is a mechanism that uses the vaporization of a liquid located in a balloon.

[0231]

[16] The odor presentation module according to

[12] , wherein

[0232] The air supply source that generates reduced noise is a mechanism that stores the pressure in the balloon in a state where the operating voltage of the air supply source is relatively reduced.

[0233]

[17] An odor presentation system, comprising

[0234] At least one odor presentation module, the odor presentation module comprising

[0235] An odor holding part that holds the odor,

[0236] An air flow forming part that forms an air flow containing the odor and discharges the air flow to the outside through a discharge opening of the odor presentation module,

[0237] A controller that controls the operation of the air flow forming part, and

[0238] A housing including the odor holding part, the air flow forming part, and the controller, the housing including on its outer surface a joining part that enables the housing to be joined to other housings,

[0239] The odor presentation system uses any one of the at least one odor presentation module to present an odor.

[0240]

[18] The odor presentation system according to

[17] , wherein

[0241] When a plurality of the modules are included, the modules are joined to each other.

[0242]

[19] The odor presentation system according to claim

[17] or

[18] , wherein

[0243] The at least one odor presentation module is independently controllable.

[0244]

[20] The odor presentation system according to any one of claims

[17] to

[19] , wherein

[0245] The module further includes an air passage that allows air to flow from one of the two ends of the module to the other of the two ends, and

[0246] The odor presentation system supplies air through one of the two ends to generate an auxiliary air flow that assists the air flow containing the odor.

[0247]

[21] The odor presentation system according to any one of

[17] to

[20] , wherein

[0248] The odor presentation system is connected to at least one auxiliary air flow generation module and uses the at least one auxiliary air flow generation module to generate an auxiliary air flow at any timing.

[0249]

[22] The odor presentation system according to

[21] , wherein

[0250] The auxiliary air flow generation module can be connected to the module.

[0251]

[23] The odor presentation system according to any one of

[17] to

[22] , wherein

[0252] The odor presentation system is connected to a deodorization unit and uses the deodorization unit to perform a deodorization operation at any timing.

[0253]

[24] The odor presentation system according to any one of

[17] to

[23] , wherein

[0254] The odor presentation system is connected to a charging unit and uses the charging unit to charge the at least one odor presentation module together.

[0255]

[25] An information processing device, comprising:

[0256] A terminal linked to an odor presentation module, the odor presentation module including an odor holding portion for holding an odor, an air flow forming portion for forming an air flow containing the odor and discharging the air flow to the outside through a discharge opening of the odor presentation module, a controller for controlling the operation of the air flow forming portion, and a housing including the odor holding portion, the air flow forming portion and the controller, the housing including a joining portion for enabling the housing to be joined to another housing; and

[0257] A processor, the processor

[0258] Receives information related to the state of the module and available to the user,

[0259] Performs processing for outputting and storing the information, and

[0260] Generates a signal related to the output and storage of the information.

[0261]

[26] The information processing device according to

[25] , wherein

[0262] The information processing device

[0263] Calculates the optimal conditions for each odor presentation module based on input information about the user obtained using the terminal and information related to the state of the module,

[0264] Generates a drive signal based on the calculation result, and

[0265] Sends the drive signal to the controller of the module.

[0266]

[27] An odor presentation module control system, comprising:

[0267] At least one odor presentation module, the odor presentation module including

[0268] An odor retention part for retaining the odor,

[0269] An air flow forming part for forming an air flow containing the odor and discharging the air flow to the outside through a discharge opening of the odor presentation module,

[0270] A controller for controlling the operation of the air flow forming part, and

[0271] A housing including the odor retention part, the air flow forming part, and the controller, the housing including a joining part enabling the housing to be joined to other housings;

[0272] A terminal linked to the at least one odor presentation module; and

[0273] An information processing device including a processor, the processor receiving information related to the state of the module and available to the user, performing processing of outputting and storing the information, and generating signals related to the output and storage of the information.

[0274] List of reference numerals

[0275] 1 Odor presentation module

[0276] 10 Odor retention part

[0277] 101 Odor carrier

[0278] 102 Ventilation part

[0279] 102a First ventilation part

[0280] 102b Second ventilation part

[0281] 103 Joining part

[0282] 1034 Protruding part

[0283] 20 Impregnation member

[0284] 21 Container

[0285] 211 Inner layer part

[0286] 212 Outer layer part

[0287] 213 Lid part for the inner layer part

[0288] 214 Inlet

[0289] 215 Groove

[0290] 216 Outlet

[0291] Vent holes 30, 30a, 30b

[0292] Inner member 31

[0293] Outer member 32

[0294] Connection openings 40, 40a, 40b

[0295] Partition portion 41

[0296] Sealed container 50

[0297] Container portion 51

[0298] Lid portion for sealing the container 52

[0299] Airflow forming section 11

[0300] Pump 111

[0301] Movable part 112

[0302] Controller 12

[0303] Housing 13

[0304] Battery 14

[0305] Air passage 15

[0306] Odor presentation system 2

[0307] Base 200

[0308] Odor presentation module control system 3

[0309] K Air, airflow

Claims

1. An odor presentation module, comprising: An odor holding part, which holds the odor; An air flow forming part, which forms an air flow containing the odor and discharges the air flow to the outside through the discharge opening of the odor presentation module; A controller, which controls the operation of the air flow forming part; and A housing, which includes the odor holding part, the air flow forming part and the controller, and the housing includes a joint part that enables the housing to be joined to other housings.

2. The odor presentation module according to claim 1, wherein The joint part is detachable.

3. The odor presentation module according to claim 2, wherein The joint part includes a magnetic member and / or includes a fitting mechanism for fitting the housings to each other.

4. The odor presentation module according to claim 1, wherein The controller controls at least one of the distance of presenting the odor, the range of presenting the odor, the direction of discharging the odor, the time period of discharging the fragrance, or the concentration of the presented odor.

5. The odor presentation module according to claim 1, wherein The odor presentation module can be connected to an external unit.

6. The odor presentation module according to claim 5, further comprising A communication part wirelessly connected to the external unit.

7. The odor presentation module according to claim 5, wherein An air flow control mechanism is provided around the discharge opening of the module, and the air flow control mechanism controls the discharge direction and / or discharge intensity of the air flow discharged through the discharge opening.

8. The odor presentation module according to claim 5, wherein The odor presentation module holds information about the module.

9. The odor presentation module according to claim 8, wherein The information is fed back to the external unit.

10. The odor presentation module according to claim 1, further comprising An air passage that allows air to flow from one of the two ends of the odor presentation module to the other of the two ends.

11. The odor presentation module according to claim 1, wherein The odor holding part further includes An inner layer part that includes an impregnated member carrying the odor, and A lid part corresponding to the inner layer part for the inner layer part, and a part or all of the inner layer part and the lid part for the inner layer part are formed of a material showing high drug resistance and / or a material with low air permeability.

12. The odor presentation module according to claim 1, wherein The air flow forming part further includes a silent air supply source or an air supply source that generates reduced noise.

13. The odor presentation module according to claim 1, wherein The air flow forming part causes air to flow into the odor holding part through a linear moving pusher or a pump, and the pump has a larger contact area with the odor holding part than the pusher.

14. An odor presentation system, comprising At least one odor presentation module, the odor presentation module including An odor holding part, which holds the odor; An air flow forming part, which forms an air flow containing the odor and discharges the air flow to the outside through the discharge opening of the odor presentation module; A controller that controls the operation of the airflow forming unit; and A housing that includes the odor holding unit, the airflow forming unit, and the controller, and the housing includes a joining portion on its outer surface that enables the housing to be joined to other housings. The odor presentation system uses any one of the at least one odor presentation module to present an odor.

15. The odor presentation system according to claim 14, wherein When multiple modules are included, the modules are joined to each other.

16. The odor presentation system according to claim 14, wherein The at least one odor presentation module is independently controllable.

17. The odor presentation system according to claim 14, wherein The module further includes an air passage that allows air to flow from one of the two ends of the module to the other of the two ends, and The odor presentation system supplies air through one of the two ends to generate an auxiliary airflow that assists the airflow containing the odor.

18. The odor presentation system according to claim 14, wherein The odor presentation system is connected to at least one auxiliary airflow generation module and uses the at least one auxiliary airflow generation module to generate an auxiliary airflow at any timing.

19. The odor presentation system according to claim 18, wherein The auxiliary airflow generation module can be connected to the module.

20. The odor presentation system according to claim 14, wherein The odor presentation system is connected to a deodorization unit and uses the deodorization unit to perform a deodorization operation at any timing.

21. The odor presentation system according to claim 14, wherein The odor presentation system is connected to a charging unit and uses the charging unit to charge the at least one odor presentation module together.

22. An information processing device, comprising: A terminal linked to an odor presentation module, the odor presentation module including an odor holding unit that holds an odor, an airflow forming unit that forms an airflow containing the odor and discharges the airflow to the outside through a discharge opening of the odor presentation module, a controller that controls the operation of the airflow forming unit, and a housing that includes the odor holding unit, the airflow forming unit, and the controller, and the housing includes a joining portion that enables the housing to be joined to other housings; And A processor, the processor Receives information related to the state of the module and available to the user, Performs processing for outputting and storing the information, and Generates a signal related to the output and storage of the information.

23. The information processing device according to claim 22, wherein The information processing device Calculates the optimal conditions for each odor presentation module based on input information about the user obtained using the terminal and information related to the state of the module, Generates a drive signal based on the calculation result, and Sends the drive signal to the controller of the module.

24. An odor presentation module control system, comprising: At least one odor presentation module, the odor presentation module including An odor holding unit that holds an odor; An air flow forming unit that forms an air flow containing an odor and discharges the air flow to the outside through a discharge opening of the odor presentation module; A controller that controls the operation of the air flow forming unit; and A housing that includes the odor holding unit, the air flow forming unit, and the controller, and the housing includes a joining portion that enables the housing to be joined to other housings; A terminal that is linked to the at least one odor presentation module; And An information processing device including a processor that receives information related to the state of the module and available to the user, processes the information for output and storage, and generates signals related to the output and storage of the information.

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