Odor dispensing device and method for operating an odor dispensing device

Abstract

An odor dispensing device (100) is provided that comprises a housing (110) comprising a reception space (112) for reception of a scent reservoir (200), a first airflow passage (120), a second airflow passage (125), an airflow generating device (130), a first valve (140), and an outlet (150), being arranged preferably directly adjacent to the first valve (140). Here, a first end (121) of the first airflow passage (120) is airtightly connected to the airflow generating device (130) and a second end (122) of the first airflow passage (120) ends in the reception space (112) and is configured to be airtightly connected to the scent reservoir (200) when it is received in the reception space (112), a first end (126) of the second airflow passage (125) ends in the reception space (112) and is configured to be airtightly connected to the scent reservoir (200) when it is received in the reception space (112) and a second end (127) of the second airflow passage (125) is connected airtightly to the first valve (140), and the first valve (140) is airtightly connected to the outlet (150). The airflow generating device (130) is configured to generate an airflow, preferably with adjustable strength, the airflow going from the airflow generating device (130) through the first airflow passage (120), through the scent reservoir (200) when it is received in the reception space (112), through the second airflow passage (125), and through the first valve (140) to be discharged through the outlet (150). The first valve (140) is configured to open when the airflow generated by the airflow generating device (130) hits the first valve (140) and to be closed otherwise.

Description

[0001] ODOR DISPENSING DEVICE AND METHOD FOR OPERATING AN ODOR DISPENSING DEVICE

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an odor dispensing device, a system for dispensing odor, a head mounted display, and a method for operating an odor dispensing device.

[0004] BACKGROUD

[0005] In recent years techniques for providing selectable odor compositions at predetermined points in time by controllable odor dispensing systems were developed. In particular, techniques were developed where computer generated content such as a game, a video or a virtual / augmented reality environment could be supplemented by odor compositions based on events within the content or based on user interaction with the content.

[0006] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] However, present odor dispensing techniques can still be improved regarding control of release and sealing of single scents that compose an odor.

[0008] The present disclosure mitigates this shortcoming of conventional odor dispensing techniques.

[0009] To this end, an odor dispensing device is provided that comprises a housing comprising a reception space for reception of a scent reservoir, a first airflow passage, a second airflow passage, an airflow generating device, a first valve, and an outlet that is arranged preferably directly adjacent to the first valve. Here, a first end of the first airflow passage is airtightly connected to the airflow generating device and a second end of the first airflow passage ends in the reception space and is configured to be airtightly connected to the scent reservoir when it is received in the reception space. A first end of the second airflow passage ends in the reception space and is configured to be airtightly connected to the scent reservoir when it is received in the reception space and a second end of the second airflow passage is connected airtightly to the first valve. The first valve is airtightly connected to the outlet. The airflow generating device is configured to generate an airflow, preferably with adjustable strength, the airflow going from the airflow generating device through the first airflow passage, through the scent reservoir when it is received in the reception space, through the second airflow passage, and through the first valve to be discharged through the outlet. The first valve is configured to open when the airflow generated by the airflow generating device hits the first valve and to be closed otherwise.

[0010] Further, a head mounted display is provided that comprises the aforementioned odor dispensing device, wherein the outlet is arranged at a nose of a user wearing the head mounted display and the odor dispensing device and components of the head mounted display other than the odor dispensing device are preferably arranged such that a center of gravity of the head mounted display is at a center of the head mounted display.

[0011] Further, a system for dispensing odor is provided that comprises the aforementioned odor dispensing device and an external computing device. Here, the odor dispensing device comprises further a control unit that is configured to control actuation of the airflow generating device and to communicate with the external computing device, wherein the control unit is configured to receive trigger signals from the external computing device and to actuate the airflow generating device based on the received trigger signals, and the latency between reception of a trigger signal and actuation of the airflow generating device is preferably at or below 5 ms, more preferably at or below 1 ms. Further, the external computing device is configured to carry out content reproduction. Here, preferably the content reproduction is carrying out an augmented, virtual, or mixed reality application, and trigger signals are sent from the external computing device to the odor dispensing device according to at least one of the following conditions: a user of the external computing device is approaching a predetermined physical or virtual object, the user of the external computing device is positioned at a predetermined physical or virtual position, the user of the external computing device has a predetermined physical or virtual viewing direction, in an application run by the external computing device a predetermined condition has been fulfilled, preferably the user of the external computing device has performed a predetermined interaction with said application or said application has reached a predetermined timestamp.

[0012] Further, a method for operating the aforementioned odor dispensing device is provided, the method comprising: receiving trigger signals from the external computing device; and controlling actuation of the airflow generating device based on the received trigger signals.

[0013] The odor dispensing device works by turning on the airflow device. The airflow generated by the airflow generating device is airtightly guided towards a valve through a scent reservoir that can be replaceably inserted into the odor dispensing device. The valve opens only if the airflow generated thus hits the valve. Otherwise, it remains closed. Scents from the scent reservoir can therefore only travel through the valve, if it is intended that they do by turning on the airflow device. Thus, scent release can be reliably controlled. Moreover, when the valve is located directly adjacent to the outlet, scents cannot remain in a passage between valve and outlet. This additionally ensures that no unwanted discharge of scents occurs. In this manner scent release can be controlled in an easy and reliable manner and any unwanted lingering of scents in the air or any scent contamination can be avoided.

[0014] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Fig. 1 is a simplified block diagram of an odor dispensing device;

[0016] Fig. 2 is a simplified illustration of a duckbill valve;

[0017] Fig. 3 is a simplified illustration of airflow passages around a reception space for scent reservoirs;

[0018] Fig. 4 is a simplified illustration of an odor dispensing device;

[0019] Fig. 5 is a simplified illustration of a system for dispensing odor;

[0020] Fig. 6 is a simplified illustration of an odor dispensing device; Fig. 7A and 7B are simplified illustrations of outlets of an odor dispensing device;

[0021] Fig. 8 is a simplified illustration of a scent reservoir;

[0022] Fig. 9 is a simplified illustration of a head mounted display that comprises an odor dispensing device;

[0023] Figs. 10A and 10B show schematically different exemplary applications of an odor dispensing device.

[0024] Fig. H schematically shows a process flow for operating an odor dispensing device.

[0025] Fig. 1 shows a schematic illustration of an odor dispensing device 100. The odor dispensing device 100 can be used to discharge a specific odor in a controlled manner.

[0026] To this end, the odor dispensing device 100 comprises a housing 110 that comprising a reception space 112 for reception of a scent reservoir 200, a first airflow passage 120, a second airflow passage 125, an airflow generating device 130, a first valve 140, and an outlet 150.

[0027] The odor dispensing device 100 is configured to discharge odor contained in a scent reservoir 200 that can be exchangeably inserted into the reception space 112 of the housing 110 of the odor dispensing device 100. Once inserted, the housing 110 may be closed by placing a lid or a part of the housing onto the reception space 112. Here, as shown in Fig. 1, the housing 110 may be only the part of the odor dispensing device 100 in which the scent reservoir 200 can be inserted. However, the housing 110 may also comprise all or a part of the other components of the odor dispensing device 100. In particular, the housing 110 may comprise the airflow generating device 130, the first airflow passage 120, and parts of the second airflow passage 125, while other parts of the second airflow passage 125, the first valve 140 and the outlet 150 are located outside the housing 110. However, the second airflow passage 125, the first valve 140, and the outlet 150 may also be arranged in or be part of the housing 110.

[0028] In the odor dispensing device 100, a first end 121 of the first airflow passage 120 is airtightly connected to the airflow generating device 130 and a second end 122 of the first airflow passage 120 ends in the reception space 112. A first end 126 of the second airflow passage 125 also ends in the reception space 112. The second end 122 of the first airflow passage 120 and the first end 126 of the second air flow passage 125 can both be airtightly connected to different parts of the scent reservoir 200 when it is received in the reception space 112.

[0029] This means that in order to insert the scent reservoir 200 into the reception space 112 it is necessary to connect the scent reservoir 200 with the respective ends of the first airflow passage 120 and the second airflow passage 125. For example, as shown at the righthand side of Fig. 1, the scent reservoir may be a cartridge with two, preferably opposite openings. When inserting the scent reservoir 200 into the reception space 112, the ends of the airflow passages 120, 125 may be inserted into these openings and provide an airtight connection via sealing means 123, 128, such as e.g. O-rings provided on the ends of the airflow passages 120, 125. To allow this insertion, it may be necessary to remove or perforate closure means on the openings of the scent reservoir 200 that ensure that no scent is discharged from the scent reservoir 200 prior to insertion into the odor dispensing device 100.

[0030] Of course, the scent reservoir 200 may also be connected differently to the airflow passages 120, 125. For example, the openings of the scent reservoir 200 may be provided within protrusions such as flanges that can be inserted into airflow passages 120, 125. The protrusions may carry sealing means such as O-rings that form an airtight connection between scent reservoir 200 and the airflow passages 120, 125. Also, the openings of the scent reservoir 200 and the ends 122, 126 of the airflow passages 120, 125 may have connectors that allow an easy, tool free connection between these parts, like e.g. male and female connectors that allow clicking the scent reservoir 200 and the airflow passages 120, 125 together. In principle, any connection between scent reservoir 200 and airflow passages 120, 125 may be feasible as long as it is airtight, i.e. as long as it prevents that scent molecules can be discharged through the connections between scent reservoir 200 and airflow passages 120, 125.

[0031] Moreover, it might also be advantageous as a safety measure, e.g. for protecting sensible parts, to make the reception space 112 airtight. To this end, the entries of the first and second airflow passages 120, 125 are provided with airtight seals. In addition, the lid of the reception space 112 may also be pressed in a sealing manner onto the reception space 112, e.g. by screwing it onto the housing 110 while sandwiching a rubber seal between housing 110 and lid. In general, however, the airtight seal between the airflow passages 120, 125 and the scent reservoir 200 is sufficient. In this case, it is not necessary to additionally seal the reception space 112.

[0032] The second end 127 of the second airflow passage 125 is connected airtightly to the first valve 140, which is airtightly connected to the outlet 150. Equivalently, the first valve 140 may be inserted into the second airflow passage 125. Then, the second end 127 of the second airflow passage 125 forms the outlet 150 or is connected to the outlet 150. The outlet 150 is preferably arranged directly adjacent to the first valve 140, as shown in Fig. 1, i.e. at a distance between 0,5 cm to 3 cm from the first valve 140, e.g. at a distance of 1 cm.

[0033] The airflow passages 120, 125 are preferably formed by airtight tubes, which may be flexible. However, the airflow passages 120, 125 may also be formed by cavities or ducts of the housing, as long as these are sufficiently airtight to prevent discharge of scent molecules from the scent reservoir 200 through them. The material of the airflow passages 120, 125, the material of the housing 110, and the material of the first valve 140 and the outlet 150 as well as the material of the scent reservoir 200 is preferably chemically inert / resistant to such a degree that it does not react with scent molecules (or other substances) from the scent reservoir 200. This ensures on the one hand that scent molecules are not absorbed by these components and on the other hand that the durability of these components is not degraded.

[0034] The airflow generating device 130 is configured to generate an airflow that goes from the airflow generating device 130 through the first airflow passage 120, through the scent reservoir 200 when it is received in the reception space 112, through the second airflow passage 125, and through the first valve 140 to be discharged through the outlet 150. That is, in order to carry scent molecules from the scent reservoir 200, the airflow generating device 130 is switched on to provide an airflow or airstream through the scent reservoir 200, if it is inserted into the housing 110. Since the scent reservoir 200 is airtightly connected to the first and second airflow passages 120, 125 once it is inserted in the housing 110, and since also the rest of the airflow path from airflow generating device 130 to outlet 150 is airtight, it is ensured that only when airflow generating device 130 is actuated scent molecules are discharged from the odor dispensing device 100. Moreover, this allows to start and stop the scent release without delay (or with a delay not recognizable by humans).

[0035] Here, as described below, airflow generating device 130 may be controlled via a control unit that indicates airflow generating device 130 when and with which strength an airflow shall be generated. To this end, the strength of the airflow may be adjustable. The airflow strength may be adjustable continuously or may be adjustable to a set of predefined values. Since the strength of the airflow determines the number of scent molecules per time interval that are discharged at the outlet 150, adjusting the airflow strength means adjusting the intensity of the odor dispensed by the odor dispensing device 100. Although the airflow generating device 130 is preferably controlled by a control unit, it is also conceivable that the airflow generating device 130 can be directly switched on and off and / or its airflow strength is directly adjustable by a user, e.g. via buttons or controls on the airflow generating device 130, if the airflow generating device 130 is for example separated from the housing 110 and connected to it only via the first airflow passage 120, constituted e.g. as a tube, or if the airflow generating device 130 is arranged within the housing, but is accessible and controllable from the outside by a user of the odor dispensing device 100.

[0036] In principle, the airflow generating device 130 may be any device that is capable to produce an airflow with a sufficient strength to move scent molecules from the scent reservoir 200 to the outlet 150. For example, the airflow generating device 130 may be a fan. However, more preferably, the airflow generating device 130 is a micro air pump, in particular a piezoelectric micro air pump. By using a micro air pump, it is on the one hand ensured that the size of the odor dispensing device 100 can be kept small. On the other hand, air pumps provide the advantage that the amount of air moved by the air pump, i.e. the airflow, can be controlled in a comparably precise manner, which allows an adjustment of the intensity of the dispensed odor, e.g. by controlling the pump speed. Moreover, they allow a more stable airflow than e.g. fans, in particular for airflows with small strength that might be preferable in order to not blow away scent molecules from an intended point of reception. Finally, in air pumps reverse discharge can be more easily prevented than e.g. in fans, which ensures that scent molecules cannot escape the odor dispensing device 100 through the suction 131 of the airflow generating device 130.

[0037] The airflow generating device 130, in particular when it is constituted by a (piezoelectric) micro air pump, may be configured to operate with a noise level below 40 dB, preferably below 35 dB. This ensures that odor can be discharged without generating a high noise level, which makes the use of the odor dispensing device more convenient.

[0038] Further, the airflow generating device 130 may be configured to generate a free flow between 50 nd / min and 1,000 nd / min. For example, if scent is released close to the nose of a user, e.g. at a distance of 5 cm to 6 cm to the nose of a user, a free flow between 50 nd / min to 400 nd / min, preferably 100 nd / min to 250 nd / min, more preferably of 110 nd / min could be used. If the distance to the nose of a user is larger, e.g. for a scent release on a table in front of a sitting or standing user, a free flow between 250 nd / min and 1,000 ml / min, preferably between 300 nd / min and 800 ml / min, more preferably between 450 nd / min and 550 nd / min, for example 500 nd / min might be used. These airflows are sufficiendy strong to release scent molecules from the scent reservoir 200 and to carry them to the outlet 150. However, they are not so strong that they disperse the discharged scent molecules in such a manner that they cannot be recognized anymore by a typical human. In particular, the above free flows are optimizing the amount of transmitted scented air in such a way that the perception is intense enough and without delay, but the airflow is still small enough to prevent air contamination / smell lingering. Further, for typical piezoelectric micro air pump the aforementioned values of the free flow can be realized with a comparable small operation voltage of up to 5 V, which allows to implement the odor dispensing device 100 as a compact, battery operated, portable device.

[0039] The airflow generating device 130 may also comprise a back seal for preventing a flow from the first end 121 of the first airflow passage 120 through the airflow generating device 130 to an outside of the odor dispensing device 100, i.e. the construction of the airflow generating device 130 ensures that no scent molecules can escape through the suction 131 of the airflow generating device 130, by ensuring that air can pass the airflow generating device 130 only when directed towards the first airflow passage 120, but not when coming from the first airflow passage 120. Just as the airtight connection between the components along the air flow this ensures that odor is not unintentionally released from the odor dispensing device 100.

[0040] The airflow generating device 130 may be operated according to a non-continuous operation cycle in which short periods of operation are followed by short periods of non-operation. For example, when in an on-state, the airflow generating device 130 may switch between operation periods of 500 ms and non-operation / idle periods of 500 ms. This pulsed operation can help to increase the lifetime of the airflow generating device, in particular if a piezoelectric micro air pump is used. Further, by changing the duty cycle from the above 50:50 relation, allows easy increase or decrease of the strength of the generated airflow. In addition, also the pump volume output might be changed to control the strength of the generated airflow.

[0041] The detailed construction of the airflow generating device 130 is in principle arbitrary as long as it is ensured that odor can be released in a controlled manner through the outlet 150. In fact, airflow generating devices 130 as described above are in principle known to a skilled person. Accordingly, a description of its precise structure can be omitted here.

[0042] As described above, between the reception space 112 and the outlet 150 the first valve 140 is arranged either at the end of the second airflow passage 125 or within the second airflow passage 125. Here, the first valve 140 is configured to open when the airflow generated by the airflow generating device 130 hits the first valve 140. Otherwise, the first valve 140 remains closed. This means that only if the airflow generating device 130 is actuated and generates an airflow that reaches the first valve 140, the first valve 140 opens. This ensures that only when air containing scent molecules form a scent reservoir 200 that is inserted into the reception space 112 is to be blown out of the outlet 150, the first valve 140 opens. Accordingly, scent molecules from the scent reservoir 200 will only be released, once the airflow generating device 130 is actuated. Otherwise, they are blocked by the first valve 140. This allows a control of odor dispensing only via switching on and off the airflow generating device 130 with a simultaneous opening and closing of the first valve 140.

[0043] Further, if the first valve 140 is located close to the outlet 150 or if the first valve 140 even constitutes the outlet 150, it is ensured that the number of scent molecules that are not discharged through the outlet after turning the airflow generating device 130 off, i.e. the number of scent molecules retained in a passage between the first valve 140 and the outlet 150 is so small that even if such scent molecules leave the outlet 150 due to diffusion, they will not be recognizable by a typical human. In this manner it is further ensured that only via actuation of the airflow generating device 130 and the first valve 140 odor can be dispensed.

[0044] As indicated above, the first valve 140 may be a controllable valve, i.e. a valve that can in principle be freely switched between an open and a closed state, like e.g. a solenoid valve or the like. However, in order to reduce the complexity of the components and the control of the odor dispensing device 100, the first valve 140 is preferably a check valve, i.e. a valve that opens when a pressure difference between its upstream side and its downstream side is larger than a predetermined cracking pressure of the valve. In this case, the airflow generating device 130 is configured to produce with the airflow generated by it a pressure at the first valve 140 that is larger than the cracking pressure of the first valve 140, i.e. the airflow generated by the airflow generating device 130 increases the pressure at the side of the first valve 140 towards the reception space 112 above an ambient pressure by an amount that is larger than the cracking pressure of the first valve 140.

[0045] In this case, it is only the actuation of the airflow generating device 130 that decides on whether or not odor is dispensed from the odor dispensing device 100. When the airflow generating device 130 is switched off, the first valve 140 closes automatically, thereby actively interrupting a remaining airflow and the resulting scent discharge. When the airflow generating device 130 is switched on, the pressure at the first valve 140 is quickly rising and the first valve 140 will open almost immediately with switch on. Thus, release of scent molecules carried in the airflow starts immediately with starting the airflow generating device 130.

[0046] A particularly easy example of such a check valve is a duckbill valve as is illustrated in a simplified manner in Fig. 2. In Fig. 2 the first valve is arranged within the second airflow passage 125, which terminates directly after the first valve 140 in the outlet 150.

[0047] As shown in Fig. 2 the first valve 140 that is constituted as a duckbill valve comprises two flexible lips or flaps that are fixed to the walls of the second airflow passage 125 at one end and pressed onto each other on their other ends such that the second airflow passage 125 is closed. If air is streaming onto the flaps from downstream it presses the flaps to the middle of the second airflow passage 125. Thus, the flaps are pressed together, effectively blocking an airflow from downstream to upstream (upper part of Fig. 2). If air is streaming from upstream to downstream, the flaps are pressed to the walls of the second airflow passage 125. Thus, a flow passage opens. The cracking pressure can be selected by selecting the stiffness of the flaps. Since duckbill valves are in principle known to a skilled person, a more detailed description can be omitted here. A duckbill valve constitutes a simple and cost-efficient manner of providing a check valve in or at the end of the second airflow passage 125.

[0048] As indicated above, the second airflow passage 125 may terminate with the first valve 140. In this case the flaps of the duckbill valve can be considered the outlet 150 of the odor dispensing device 100. This has the advantage that the flaps will reduce the flow area, which leads to an increase of the velocity of the airflow. This ensures that the scent molecules carried with the airflow reach the intended place where the odor is to be recognized. Of course, this effect may also be realized independent of the form of the first valve 140, as also illustrated schematically in Fig. 2. In fact, also by forming the outlet 150 with a tapered shape the velocity of the airflow coming from the first valve 140 can be increased. Further, the outlet 150 may have also any other form that helps distributing the scent molecules carried in the airflow such as to be well perceptible by a typical human, such as e.g. the form of a dispersion or diffusion nozzle.

[0049] Besides the first valve 140 the odor dispensing device 100 may also comprise a second valve 160 that is arranged within the first airflow passage 120 as illustrated schematically in Fig. 1. This second valve 160 is configured to open when the airflow generated by the airflow generating device 130 hits the second valve 160. Otherwise, the second valve 160 will be closed. Just as the first valve 140 the second valve 160 may be a controllable valve or a check valve, like e.g. a duckbill valve. The second valve 160 ensures that air cannot stream from the scent reservoir 200 to the airflow generating device 130, thereby ensuring additionally that no odor is released through the suction 130 of the airflow generating device 130.

[0050] As indicated above, the flow area for the air flow may change at the outlet 150 in order to accelerate the airflow. Just the same the flow area may change within the first and second airflow passages 120, 125. For example, the first airflow passage 120 may widen between its first end 121 and its second end 122 in order to reduce the velocity of the airflow from the first end 121 of the first airflow passage 120 to the second end 122 of the first airflow passage 120. As shown in Fig. 3, this widening of the first airflow passages 120 is preferably done just before the reception space 112 to slow down the airflow during its passage through the scent reservoir 200 inside the reception space 112. The lowered velocity ensures that a sufficient amount of scent molecules can diffuse into a unit volume of the air flowing through the scent reservoir 200, since the air is moving sufficiently slowly through the scent reservoir 200. However, the first airflow passage 120 may also widen anywhere in order to achieve the same effect.

[0051] Additionally or alternatively, the second airflow passage 125 may taper between its first end 126 and its second end 127 in order to increase the velocity of the airflow from the first end 126 of the second airflow passage 125 to the second end 127 of the second airflow passage 125. As shown in Fig. 3, this tapering may be done right after the reception space 112, i.e. the airflow is accelerated right after passing through the scent reservoir 200. This ensures that the scent molecules are carried quickly to the outlet 150, which reduces the latency between turning on the airflow generating device 130 and the odor discharge. The tapering or also an additional tapering may, however, also be provided at other parts of the second airflow passage 125, for example to further accelerate the airflow.

[0052] Fig. 4 shows a further possible implementation of the odor dispensing device 100 that was described above. The general structure of the odor dispensing device 100 that is shown in Fig. 4 is the same as the structure shown in Fig. 1. A detailed description of already described parts of the odor dispensing device 100 can therefore be omitted.

[0053] As discussed above and as shown in Fig. 4, the cartridge type scent reservoir 200 may contain two protrusions that can be fixedly and airtightly connected to the airflow passages 120, 125 by pushing them into the airflow passages 120, 125. The airflow passages 120, 125 are contained in the housing 110 and may be formed of flexible or essentially rigid tubes that run through the housing 110. As shown in Fig. 4 the odor dispensing device 100 may further comprise a control unit 170 that is preferably arranged within the housing 110. The control unit 170 controls actuation of the airflow generating device 130, i.e. the control unit 170 controls when to dispense odor by blowing air through the scent reservoir 200. The control unit 170 may be constituted by any computer, processor or program that is capable to carry out the functions of the control unit 170 described herein. The control unit 170 may be constituted by a microcontroller, a CPU or any other suitable processor. The control unit 170 may be implemented in hardware, in software or in a mixture of both. The control unit 170 may be constituted by a microcontroller board (e.g. Arduino®-type) and driver boards for controlling the airflow generating device 130. However, the control unit 170 may also combine the functions of a microcontroller and of drivers in a single board solution. Such a solution would also allow adaption to slightly different pump frequencies for different airflow generating devices (see below), in the case of variances of their nominal frequencies. The control unit 170 may use firmware using e.g. an Arduino® API and being programmed e.g. in C or C++.

[0054] The control unit 170 may control the actuation of the airflow generating device 130 in a standalone manner, e.g. based on an odor release schedule that can be freely programmed by a user or provider of the odor dispensing device 100 and that can be stored / storable in a memory of the control unit 170.

[0055] Alternatively or additionally, the control unit 170 may be configured to communicate with an external computing device 300, either wirelessly (WiFi, Bluetooth, etc) or wire bound (RS-232, USB, etc.). The external computing device 300 may be any computer, processor or program that can carry out the functions of the external computing device 300 described herein. In particular, the external computing device may be a personal computer, a laptop, a mobile device, like e.g. a smartphone, a tablet, a smartwatch or the like, a head mounted display, smart glasses or the like. The external computing device 300 may run a program compatible with a program executed by the control unit 170 / the odor dispensing device 100.

[0056] In particular, the external computing device 300 may allow to watch a video, to play a computer game, to attend a videoconference, or to experience a virtual or augmented reality. Together with the odor dispensing device 100 this can be used to create situation- and content-depending odor / smelFscent sensations, which are expanding the human-product interaction from visual, auditory, and haptic cues to a fourth human perception modality. This enhances the user experience by triggering emotions and memories through selective odor dispensing synchronized with audio, video, gaming contents or user activity. Odor can be delivered to be timely and spatially synchronized to a huge variety of contents like video, music, podcasts, notifications, gaming, or wellbeing content.

[0057] To this end, the control unit 170 is configured to receive trigger signals from the external computing device 300 and to actuate the airflow generating device 130 based on the received trigger signals. This means that the external computing device 300 is capable to reproduce various contents such as videos, audio fdes, virtual reality environments, augmented reality environment, mixed reality environments (i.e. a combination of virtual and augmented reality environments), and the like together with metadata indicating conditions for dispensing odor with the odor dispensing device 100. Once the conditions are fulfilled, e.g. once a certain timestamp in a video or audio file has been reached, once a certain action is taken by a user of the external computing device 300 or the like, the external computing device 300 provides a trigger signal to the control unit 170 that indicates either when and how to actuate the airflow generating device 130 or that allow the control unit 170 determining when and how to actuate the airflow generating device 130. In this manner the odor dispensing device 100 can supplement the content executed on the external computing device 300 with a particular odor, especially when mixtures of several different scents can be provided by the odor dispensing device 100 as will be described below.

[0058] Here, the latency between the reception of a trigger signal and the actuation of the airflow generating device 130 is preferably at or below 5 ms, more preferably at or below 1 ms. This means, the control unit 170 is configured to respond quickly to the trigger signals and the airflow generating device 130 is configured to respond quickly to drive controls by the control unit 170. This ensures that from the perspective of a typical human, odor is perceived immediately, therefore tying seamlessly the dispensed odor in the desired manner to the content provided by the external computing device 300.

[0059] As illustrated in Fig. 4, the odor dispensing device 100 may contain an energy storage unit 180, e.g. a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery or battery pack. This allows to operate the odor dispensing device 100 in a standalone, portable manner without the need of energy supply from e.g. the external computing device 300 or from the electrical grid. This may be preferable, when the odor dispensing device 100 is used together with a mobile device that has itself limited power storage. However, if the odor dispensing device 100 is operated together with an external computing device 300 that is connected to the electrical grid, like e.g. a personal computer or laptop, power supply may be provided from the external computing device 300 to the odor dispensing device 100. An energy storage unit 180 on the odor dispensing device 100 is then not necessary.

[0060] Further, although the odor dispensing device 100 and the external computing device 300 were discussed above as two separate entities, it is also possible to combine their functions into a single device.

[0061] As schematically illustrated e.g. in Fig. 5 or 6, the odor dispensing device 100 may also comprise an additional airflow generating device 190 and a third airflow passage 195, wherein the additional airflow generating device 190 is configured to generate an airflow through the third airflow passage 195 and the third airflow passage 195 may end within the second airflow passage 125 or in proximity to the outlet 150, e.g. in a distance between 0.5 cm and 3 cm, e.g. 1.5 cm, to the outlet 150.

[0062] Thus, the additional airflow generating device 190 is capable to generate its own airflow separately from the airflow of the airflow generating device 130. This airflow is provided through an independent, third airflow passage 195 without passing a scent reservoir 200. Accordingly, the airflow generated by the additional airflow generating device 190 consists only of ambient air. The third airflow passage 195 terminates at or at least approximately at the termination of the second airflow passage 125 / the outlet 150. Accordingly, if both the airflow generating device 130 and the additional airflow generating device 190 operate, the respective airflows will mix. This allows use of the additional airflow generating device 190 to neutralize a scent / odor discharged due to usage of the airflow generating device 130. Either the airflow generated by the additional airflow generating device 190 is going in the same direction as the airflow generated by the airflow generating device 130. Then, the discharged scent molecules are diluted and / or blown away from a perception point. This means that odor perception by a user is terminated. Or the airflows go into opposite directions. Then, already discharged scent molecules are sucked in by the additional airflow generating device 190 and discharged through the third airflow passage 195 in a diluted state elsewhere, also in this manner effectively terminating odor perception.

[0063] To this end, the additional airflow generating device 190 may generate airflows with a larger free flow than the airflows generated by the airflow generating device 130. In particular, the additional airflow generating device 190 may be constituted by a fan and may be capable to generate a free flow above 1,000 ml / min, preferably above 5,000 ml / min or even higher. With such an additional airflow generating device 190 also wind sensations may be generated in synchronization with content executed at the external computing device, thereby further enhancing the user experience.

[0064] Fig. 5 shows another schematic illustration of a system 600 for dispensing odor, as was illustrated in Fig. 4, which system 600 comprises an odor dispensing device 100 as described above and the external computing device 300. As described above, the external computing device 300 may be configured to reproduce a plurality of contents, such as video, audio or augmented / virtual / mixed reality contents. It may reproduce the contents on a display 310 and via speakers 320. The external computing device 300 sends trigger signals to microcontroller 170a of the control unit 170, which instructs driver electronics 170b of the control unit 170 to actuate the airflow generating device 130, and if necessary, the first and second valves 140, 160 and the additional airflow generating device 190. In this manner, air (white arrows) flows through the scent reservoir 200, is loaded with scent molecules (black arrows) and dispensed such as to be perceived by a user.

[0065] Here, trigger signals may be sent from the external computing device 300 to the odor dispensing device 100 according to at least one of the following conditions:

[0066] 1) a user of the external computing device 300 is approaching a predetermined physical or virtual object. For example, in a augmented / virtual / mixed reality content, if an avatar of the user is approaching a specific object that is intended to have a specific smell, an according trigger signal is provided. Similarly, if a user approaches or comes with his face close to a real-world object that is intended to represent parts of the content reproduced by the external computing device, such as e.g. a game controller representing a certain object in a computer game, a trigger signal for odor dispensing may be transmitted.

[0067] 2) The user of the external computing device 300 is positioned at a predetermined physical or virtual position. Just as with approaching a virtual or real object, also positions within an augmented / virtual / mixed reality environment or a computer game can be associated with specific smells. Approaching such positions will then cause the transmission of trigger signals. Just the same, moving in the real world while playing a computer game may be interpreted as approaching certain locations in the computer game and may trigger odor dispense.

[0068] Further, moving in accordance with a specific pattern, e.g. according to a training plan of a fitness application may trigger dispensing of odor.

[0069] 3) The user of the external computing device 300 has a predetermined physical or virtual viewing direction.

[0070] Similar to approaching a certain position also looking into a certain direction may be associated with the release of a specific odor. 4) In an application run by the external computing device 300 a predetermined condition has been fulfilled. For example, a user of the external computing device 300 has performed a predetermined interaction with said application, like e.g. making a certain decision in a computer game, which triggers release of a certain smell. Or in reproducing the application, such as a video or audio file, a predetermined timestamp has been reached. Then, odor dispensing may be synchronized with the visual and / or audible sensations provided by such a content.

[0071] Further, vital signs of the user that are assessed by respective sensors may trigger odor release. For example, in wellbeing scenarios the odor release could be triggered / increased / decreased based on the user's stress / relaxation level by assessing and using heart rate (and calculated heart rate variability) data. This can be used for optimizing stress relief scenarios like multi-sensory meditation.

[0072] Thus, in the system 600 for odor dispensing a plurality of different triggers can be used to enhance the experience of a user of the external computing device 300 with smellable sensations.

[0073] For the sake of simplicity, the above description has focused on a single flow path through one scent reservoir 200. Apparently, this allows only release of the one scent that is stored in the scent reservoir 200. While this is sufficient for simple applications where e.g. a user triggers release of a scent on a standalone odor dispensing device 100 e.g. by pressing a button on the odor dispensing device 100, or where a single scent is considered sufficient to enhance a user experience of content, it may be preferable to provide and control a plurality of scent reservoirs 200 within the housing 110 of the odor dispensing device 100. This allows dispensing various odors by mixing the scents contained in the single scent reservoirs 200. For example, six to twenty -four (or even more) different scent reservoirs may be used.

[0074] A general setup of such a configuration is schematically shown in Fig. 6. Here, the odor dispensing device 100 described above comprises additionally a plurality of further airflow generating devices 130a, a plurality of further first airflow passages 120a, a plurality of further reception spaces 112a, a plurality of further second airflow passages 125a, and a plurality of further first valves 140a (and possibly a plurality of second valves 160, if considered necessary). These components are arranged and configured as was described above with respect to Figs. 1 and 4 for the air flow generating device 130, the first airflow passage 120, the reception space 112, the second airflow passage 125, and the first valve 140.

[0075] In particular, for each of the further airflow paths a scent reservoir 200a is provided that can be inserted into a reception space 112a such as to be connected airtightly to the rest of the airflow path. Alternatively, a cassette of scent reservoirs may be used, which contains all necessary scent reservoirs to be used in a specific application, like e.g. a computer game. The respective airflow generating device 130a can be controlled via the control unit 170 to generate an airflow that passes the scent reservoir 200a and the respective first valve 140a. By adjusting actuation times and airflow strengths of the different airflows the odor perceived by a user of the odor dispensing device 100 can be adjusted.

[0076] Here, each flow path may be provided with its own airflow generating device 130, 130a, as illustrated in Fig. 6.

[0077] However, it is also possible to use one airflow generating device 130, 130a for several airflow paths. Then, additional, controllable third valves may be provided before the scent reservoirs 200, 200a that can interrupt the airflow from the airflow generating device 130, 130a such to ensure that it is possible to select also only a single scent reservoir 200, 200a. Thus, instead of or in addition to switching on and off the airflow generating device 130, 130a the controllable third valves may be used to control the airflow according to the trigger signals from the external computing device 300.

[0078] In order to allow a proper mixing of the different scents, the plurality of further first valves 140a may be connected to a plurality of further outlets 150a that are located in proximity to the outlet 150, e.g. that are located in a distance between 0.5 cm and 3 cm, e.g. 1.5 cm around the outlet 150. This situation is schematically illustrated in Fig. 7 A that shows that for each scent release path a single outlet 150, 150a is provided and that these outlets 150, 150a are provided adjacent to each other.

[0079] Alternatively, the first valve 140 and the plurality of further first valves 140a may be connected to one outlet 150 as shown in Fig. 7B where all the airflow paths terminate at the same outlet 150. Of course, also mixtures of these alternatives are possible, as long as a proper mixing of scent molecules before perception by a user is ensured.

[0080] As described above, each of the scent reservoirs 200 may be constituted by a scent cartridge that can be replaceably and airtightly inserted into the housing 110 of the odor dispensing device 100. In principle, the scent reservoir 200 may be constituted arbitrarily as long as it allows a controlled release of scent molecules merely by guiding an airflow through the scent reservoir 200. However, preferably the scent reservoirs 200 are constituted as schematically illustrated in Fig. 8. There, it is shown that the scent reservoir 200 comprises a solid porous absorbing material 210, like e.g. a foam that carries a liquid or solid odor substance. The liquid odor substance may for example be water, alcohol or oil based. The solid odor substance can be solidified liquid odor in a wax, polymeric, or other type of nano capsules. Then, scent molecules from the odor substance are carried away by the airflow, while the odor substance is not carried away as schematically illustrated by the white and black arrow of Fig. 8. According to this implementation no liquid is moved out of the scent reservoir 200, but only scent molecules. In particular, no aerosol formation is needed or desired, which avoids the necessity to heat or disperse liquid odor substances. Moreover, spilling or diffusion of the odor substances in the odor dispensing device is avoided, and hence a contamination of the odor dispensing device 100 with different odor substance remnants, which would lead eventually to an uncontrolled and unwanted discharge of different scents. Moreover, handling scent reservoirs 200 that are constituted accordingly is particularly easy for a user, since the odor substance is adhering to the solid porous absorbing material 210, which reduces the care that is necessary for handling the scent reservoirs 200. Also, such scent reservoirs 200 can be produced at comparably low costs.

[0081] As described above the odor dispensing device 100 may be used together with a head mounted display. As illustrated schematically in Fig. 9 the odor dispensing device 100 may even form a part of such a head mounted display 400. As shown in Fig. 9, the outlet(s) 150 of the odor dispensing device 100 are arranged at a nose 510 of a user 500 wearing the head mounted display 400. This allows a user to experience an improved immersion into the virtual reality created via the head mounted display 400. Preferably, the scented air is blown up in the nose 510 from below. In this manner scent is provided efficiently to the user 500 compared to an air flow coming directly from the front.

[0082] Here, the head mounted display 400 may be connected to an external computing device 300 as described above, and may be considered to constitute display 310 and speakers 320 of this external computing device 300. However, the external computing device 300 may also be constituted by the head mounted display 400 itself.

[0083] As illustrated in Fig. 9, the odor dispensing device 100 and components 410 of the head mounted display 400 other than the odor dispensing device 100, i.e. in particular the display and, if present, speakers of the head mounted display 400, are arranged such that a center of gravity of the head mounted display 400 is at a (geometric) center of the head mounted display 400, i.e. such that the head mounted display 400 is balanced. For example, if the display of the head mounted display is comparably heavy, the odor dispensing device 100 will preferably be located at the back of the head of the user 500, thus balancing the weight of the display. The second airflow passages 125 extend then to the outside of the housing 110 of the odor dispensing device 100 and are guided by holders of the head mounted display 400 to the nose 510 of the user 500. The odor dispensing device 100 may be fastened to the elements of the head mounted display 400 that hold the head mounted display 400 on the head of the user 500 such as e.g. straps or a helmet. In this manner, it is possible to provide an easy to wear, improved head mounted display 400 that allows to also smell the virtual reality visible through the head mounted display 400.

[0084] Further possible applications / implementations of the above-described odor dispensing device 100 are shown in Figs. 10A and 10B. Fig. 10A shows a standalone odor dispensing device 100 that could either be operated without connection to an external device or that could be connected to a smartphone, a smart TV or the like to supplement content experienced on such devices with additional smells. Fig. 10B shows an odor dispensing device 100 that is configured as a holder for an external computing device 300 such as a tablet or a laptop. The external computing device 300 can be inserted into the holder such that outlets 150 of the various flow passages of the odor dispensing device 100 are located proximate to the display 310 of the external computing device 300. This ensures that odors are released into the direction of a user watching content on the display 310 of the external computing device 300. The reception spaces for receiving the scent reservoir cartridges 200 are located at the (not illustrated) back of the external computing device 300, i.e. on the side opposite to the side on which the outlets 150 are formed. This ensures that scent reservoirs 200 can be easily replaced when empty without dismounting the external computing device 300 from the odor dispensing device 100 and also hides the main components for better / cleaner aesthetic design.

[0085] In general, the odor dispensing device 100 can be used together with any content reproduction device, like e.g. a display or projection device, that can be used to reproduce contents, e.g. by streaming, projecting, displaying, or replaying it. The odor dispensing device 100 may be part of such a content reproduction device or may be a separate component of a system including the odor dispensing device 100 and the content reproduction device.

[0086] Fig. 11 illustrates a schematic process flow of a method for operating the odor dispensing device 100 as described above. At SI 10 trigger signals are received from the external computing device 300. At S120 actuation of the airflow generating device 140 is controlled based on the received trigger signals. This allows enhancing the user experience of a user of the external computing device 300.

[0087] The present technology can also be configured as described below:

[0088] [1] An odor dispensing device (100) comprising a housing (110) comprising a reception space (112) for reception of a scent reservoir (200); a first airflow passage (120); a second airflow passage (125); an airflow generating device (130); a first valve (140); and an outlet (150), being arranged preferably directly adjacent to the first valve (140); wherein a first end (121) of the first airflow passage (120) is airtightly connected to the airflow generating device (130) and a second end (122) of the first airflow passage (120) ends in the reception space (112) and is configured to be airtightly connected to the scent reservoir (200) when it is received in the reception space (112); a first end (126) of the second airflow passage (125) ends in the reception space (112) and is configured to be airtightly connected to the scent reservoir (200) when it is received in the reception space (112) and a second end (127) of the second airflow passage (125) is connected airtightly to the first valve (140); the first valve (140) is airtightly connected to the outlet (150); the airflow generating device (130) is configured to generate an airflow, preferably with adjustable strength, the airflow going from the airflow generating device (130) through the first airflow passage (120), through the scent reservoir (200) when it is received in the reception space (112), through the second airflow passage (125), and through the first valve (140) to be discharged through the outlet (150); and the first valve (140) is configured to open when the airflow generated by the airflow generating device (130) hits the first valve (140) and to be closed otherwise.

[0089] [2] The odor dispensing device (100) according to [1], wherein the first valve (140) is a check valve, preferably a duckbill valve; and the airflow generating device (130) is configured to generate with the airflow generated by it a pressure at the first valve (140) that is larger than the cracking pressure of the first valve (140).

[0090] [3] The odor dispensing device (100) according to [1] or [2], wherein the airflow generating device (130) is a micro air pump that is configured to operate with a noise level below 40 dB, preferably below 35 dB, and is preferably a piezoelectric micro air pump.

[0091] [4] The odor dispensing device (100) according to any one of [1] to [3], wherein the airflow generating device (130) is configured to generate a free flow between 50 ml / min and 1,000 ml / min, preferably between 50 ml / min to 400 ml / min, 100 ml / min to 250 ml / min, of 110 ml / min, between 300 ml / min and 800 ml / min, or between 450 ml / min and 550 ml / min.

[0092] [5] The odor dispensing device (100) according to any one of [1] to [4], wherein the airflow generating device (130) comprises a back seal for preventing a flow from the first end (122) of the first airflow passage (120) through the airflow generating device (130) to an outside of the odor dispensing device (100).

[0093] [6] The odor dispensing device according to any one of [1] to [5], further comprising a second valve (160) arranged within the first airflow passage (120), the second valve (160) being configured to open when the airflow generated by the airflow generating device (130) hits the second valve (160) and to be closed otherwise; wherein the second valve (160) is preferable a check valve, and more preferably a duckbill valve.

[0094] [7] The odor dispensing device (100) according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the first airflow passage (120) widens between its first end (121) and its second end (122) in order to reduce the velocity of the airflow from the first end (121) of the first airflow passage (120) to the second end (122) of the first airflow passage (120); and / or the second airflow passage (125) tapers between its first end (126) and its second end (127) in order to increase the velocity of the airflow from the first end (126) of the second airflow passage (125) to the second end (127) of the second airflow passage (125); and / or the outlet (150) has a tapered shape in order to increase the velocity of the airflow coming from the first valve (140).

[0095] [8] The odor dispensing device (100) according to any one of [1] to [7], further comprising an additional airflow generating device (190); and a third airflow passage (195), wherein the additional airflow generating device (190) is configured to generate an airflow through the third airflow passage (195); and the third airflow passage (195) ends within the second airflow passage (125) or in proximity to the outlet (150).

[0096] [9] The odor dispensing device (100) according to any one of [1] to [8], further comprising a control unit (170) that is configured to control actuation of the airflow generating device (130) and to communicate with an external computing device (300); wherein the control unit (170) is configured to receive trigger signals from the external computing device (300) and to actuate the airflow generating device (130) based on the received trigger signals; and preferably the latency between reception of a trigger signal and actuation of the airflow generating device (130) is at or below 5 ms, more preferably at or below 1 ms.

[0097]

[0010] The odor dispensing device (100) according to any one of [1] to [9], further comprising the scent reservoir (200) received in the reception space (112); wherein scent molecules are carried by the airflow that is generated by the airflow generating device (140) from the scent reservoir (200) to the outlet (150); and the scent reservoir (200) is preferably constituted by a scent cartridge.

[0011] The odor dispensing device (100) according to

[0010] , wherein the scent reservoir (200) comprises a solid porous absorbing material (210), preferably a foam, that carries a liquid or solid odor substance; and scent molecules from the liquid or solid odor substance are carried away by the airflow, while the liquid or solid odor substance is not carried away.

[0098]

[0012] The odor dispensing device (100) according to any one of [1] to

[0011] , further comprising a plurality of further airflow generating devices (130a), a plurality of further first airflow passages (120a), a plurality of further reception spaces (112a), a plurality of further second airflow passages (125a), and a plurality of further first valves (140a) that are each arranged and configured as the air flow generating device (130), the first airflow passage (120), the reception space (112), the second airflow passage (125), and the first valve (140); wherein the plurality of further first valves (140a) is connected to a plurality of further outlets (150a) that are located in proximity to the outlet (150); or the plurality of further first valves (140a) is connected to the outlet (150).

[0099]

[0013] A head mounted display (400) comprising the odor dispensing device (100) according to any one of [1] to

[0012] ; wherein the outlet (150) is arranged at a nose (510) of a user (500) wearing the head mounted display (400); and preferably the odor dispensing device (100) and components (410) of the head mounted display (400) other than the odor dispensing device (100) are arranged such that a center of gravity of the head mounted display (400) is at a center of the head mounted display (400).

[0100]

[0014] A system (600) for dispensing odor, the system comprising the odor dispensing device (100) according to any one of [1] to

[0012] or the head mounted display (400) of

[0013] , as far as [9] is included in them; and the external computing device (300); wherein the external computing device (300) is configured to carry out content reproduction; and preferably, the content reproduction is carrying out an augmented, a virtual, or a mixed reality application and trigger signals are sent from the external computing device (300) to the odor dispensing device (100) according to at least one of the following conditions: a user of the external computing device (300) is approaching a predetermined physical or virtual object, the user of the external computing device (300) is positioned at a predetermined physical or virtual position, the user of the external computing device (300) has a predetermined physical or virtual viewing direction, in an application run by the external computing device (300) a predetermined condition has been fulfilled, preferably the user of the external computing device (300) has performed a predetermined interaction with said application or said application has reached a predetermined timestamp.

[0015] A method for operating the odor dispensing device (100) according to any one of [1] to

[0012] or the head mounted display (400) of

[0013] , as far as [9] is included in them, or the system (600) of

[0014] , the method comprising receiving trigger signals from the external computing device (300); and controlling actuation of the airflow generating device (140) based on the received trigger signals.

Claims

Claims1. An odor dispensing device comprising a housing comprising a reception space for reception of a scent reservoir; a first airflow passage; a second airflow passage; an airflow generating device; a first valve; and an outlet, being arranged preferably directly adjacent to the first valve; wherein a first end of the first airflow passage is airtightly connected to the airflow generating device and a second end of the first airflow passage ends in the reception space and is configured to be airtightly connected to the scent reservoir when it is received in the reception space; a first end of the second airflow passage ends in the reception space and is configured to be airtightly connected to the scent reservoir when it is received in the reception space and a second end of the second airflow passage is connected airtightly to the first valve; the first valve is airtightly connected to the outlet; the airflow generating device is configured to generate an airflow, preferably with adjustable strength, the airflow going from the airflow generating device through the first airflow passage, through the scent reservoir when it is received in the reception space, through the second airflow passage, and through the first valve to be discharged through the outlet; and the first valve is configured to open when the airflow generated by the airflow generating device hits the first valve and to be closed otherwise.

2. The odor dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the first valve is a check valve, preferably a duckbill valve; and the airflow generating device is configured to generate with the airflow generated by it a pressure at the first valve that is larger than the cracking pressure of the first valve.

3. The odor dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the airflow generating device is a micro air pump that is configured to operate with a noise level below 40 dB, preferably below 35 dB, and is preferably a piezoelectric micro air pump.

4. The odor dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the airflow generating device is configured to generate a free flow between 50 ml / min and 1,000 ml / min, preferably between 50 ml / min to 400 ml / min, 100 ml / min to 250 ml / min, of 110 ml / min, between 300 ml / min and 800 ml / min, or between 450 ml / min and 550 ml / min.

5. The odor dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the airflow generating device comprises a back seal for preventing a flow from the first end of the first airflow passage through the airflow generating device to an outside of the odor dispensing device.

6. The odor dispensing device according to claim 1, further comprisinga second valve arranged within the first airflow passage, the second valve being configured to open when the airflow generated by the airflow generating device hits the second valve and to be closed otherwise; wherein the second valve is preferable a check valve, and more preferably a duckbill valve.

7. The odor dispensing device according to claim 1, wherein the first airflow passage widens between its first end and its second end in order to reduce the velocity of the airflow from the first end of the first airflow passage to the second end of the first airflow passage; and / or the second airflow passage tapers between its first end and its second end in order to increase the velocity of the airflow from the first end of the second airflow passage to the second end of the second airflow passage; and / or the outlet has a tapered shape in order to increase the velocity of the airflow coming from the first valve.

8. The odor dispensing device according to claim 1, further comprising an additional airflow generating device; and a third airflow passage, wherein the additional airflow generating device is configured to generate an airflow through the third airflow passage; and the third airflow passage ends within the second airflow passage or in proximity to the outlet.

9. The odor dispensing device according to claim 1, further comprising a control unit that is configured to control actuation of the airflow generating device and to communicate with an external computing device; wherein the control unit is configured to receive trigger signals from the external computing device and to actuate the airflow generating device based on the received trigger signals; and preferably the latency between reception of a trigger signal and actuation of the airflow generating device is at or below 5 ms, more preferably at or below 1 ms.

10. The odor dispensing device according to claim 1, further comprising the scent reservoir received in the reception space; wherein scent molecules are carried by the airflow that is generated by the airflow generating device from the scent reservoir to the outlet; and the scent reservoir is preferably constituted by a scent cartridge.

11. The odor dispensing device according to claim 10, wherein the scent reservoir comprises a solid porous absorbing material, preferably a foam, that carries a liquid or solid odor substance; and scent molecules from the liquid or solid odor substance are carried away by the airflow, while the liquid or solid odor substance is not carried away.

12. The odor dispensing device according to claim 1, further comprisinga plurality of further airflow generating devices, a plurality of further first airflow passages, a plurality of further reception spaces, a plurality of further second airflow passages, and a plurality of further first valves that are each arranged and configured as the air flow generating device, the first airflow passage, the reception space, the second airflow passage, and the first valve; wherein the plurality of further first valves is connected to a plurality of further outlets that are located in proximity to the outlet; or the plurality of further first valves is connected to the outlet.

13. A head mounted display comprising the odor dispensing device according to claim 1; wherein the outlet is arranged at a nose of a user wearing the head mounted display; and preferably the odor dispensing device and components of the head mounted display other than the odor dispensing device are arranged such that a center of gravity of the head mounted display is at a center of the head mounted display.

14. A system for dispensing odor, the system comprising the odor dispensing device according to claim 9; and the external computing device; wherein the external computing device is configured to carry out content reproduction; and preferably, the content reproduction is carrying out an augmented, virtual, or mixed reality application, and trigger signals are sent from the external computing device to the odor dispensing device according to at least one of the following conditions: a user of the external computing device is approaching a predetermined physical or virtual object, the user of the external computing device is positioned at a predetermined physical or virtual position, the user of the external computing device has a predetermined physical or virtual viewing direction, in an application run by the external computing device a predetermined condition has been fulfilled, preferably the user of the external computing device has performed a predetermined interaction with said application or said application has reached a predetermined timestamp.

15. A method for operating the odor dispensing device according to claim 9, the method comprising receiving trigger signals from the external computing device; and controlling actuation of the airflow generating device based on the received trigger signals.

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