Odor presentation control system and odor presentation control device

Abstract

The present invention provides new odor presentation control technology.　Provided are an odor presentation control system and so forth, including one or a plurality of odor presentation units that present odors on the basis of odor presentation conditions, an information acquisition unit that acquires information pertaining to the odor presentation units, and a control unit that determines the odor presentation conditions on the basis of the information acquired by the information acquisition unit.

Description

Odor presentation control system and odor presentation control device

[0001] The present technology relates to an odor presentation control system and an odor presentation control device.

[0002] A technique has been proposed in the past in which air is supplied to a carrier that carries volatile organic molecules, and the air containing the volatile organic molecules is released by the air flow, thereby providing a user with a scent.

[0003] Specifically, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a fragrance device having a fragrance head that can emit gas containing a fragrance substance at the tip of the user's nose and can also exhaust the gas for deodorization.

[0004] Patent document 2 also discloses a fragrance providing device that includes a cylindrical shielding tube with an internal cavity that serves as a fragrance transport airway and an opening on one side, a fragrance container that stores fragrance inside and is attached to the outer surface of the shielding tube and has an opening on the side facing the shielding tube, and an air blowing means that can blow air to one end of the fragrance transport airway, and that can make the interior of the fragrance container and the fragrance transport airway penetrate each other by overlapping the opening of the shielding tube with the opening of the fragrance container through relative rotation while the shielding tube and the fragrance container are in close contact, and that can make the interior of the fragrance container and the fragrance transport airway non-penetrating by overlapping one opening of the shielding tube with the part other than the opening through relative rotation while the shielding tube and the fragrance container are in close contact.

[0005] JP 2005-304608 A JP 2013-094436 A

[0006] However, conventional technologies have not been able to adequately address needs such as responding to malfunctions in the odor presentation unit that presents the odor, or providing localized fragrance using the odor presentation unit, and there has been a need for the development of new odor presentation control technologies.

[0007] Therefore, the main purpose of this technology is to provide a new odor presentation control technology.

[0008] First, the present technology provides an odor presentation control system comprising one or more odor presentation units that present an odor based on odor presentation conditions, an information acquisition unit that acquires information about the odor presentation units, and a control unit that determines the odor presentation conditions based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit.

[0009] The present technology also provides an odor presentation control device that includes one or more odor presentation units that present an odor based on odor presentation conditions, an information acquisition unit that acquires information about the odor presentation units, and a control unit that determines the odor presentation conditions based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit.

[0010] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of an odor-presenting unit 101 according to a first embodiment. A cross-sectional view showing an example of an embodiment of a volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 portion. An explanatory diagram illustrating a linear motion mechanism 18. A perspective view showing an example of a second embodiment of an odor-presenting unit 101. A front view of a volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. A rear view of a volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. A left side view of a volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. A right side view of a volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. A plan view of a volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. A bottom view of a volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. A cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 along line A-A. A cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 along line B-B. A cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 along line C-C. A cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 along line D-D. A cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 along line E-E. An explanatory diagram illustrating a liquid leakage prevention structure. A cross-sectional view showing volatile organic molecule-containing air K being released from the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. 25A and 25B are perspective views showing an example of the odor presentation unit 101 according to the third embodiment. FIG. 26A is a six-view diagram showing an example of the odor presentation unit 101 according to the third embodiment. FIG. 26B is a six-view diagram showing an example of the internal structure of the housing 35 of the odor presentation unit 101. FIG. 26C is a six-view diagram of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 3. FIG. 26D is a perspective view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 3. FIG. 26E is a cross-sectional view of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 3 along the P-P line. FIG. 26F is a cross-sectional view showing the manner in which volatile organic molecule-containing air K is released from the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 3. FIG. 26F is a perspective view showing another example of an embodiment of the odor presentation unit 101. FIG. 26G is a block diagram showing an example of an embodiment of the odor presentation control system 100 including the odor presentation unit 101 according to the embodiment shown in FIG. 25A and 25B. FIG. 26H is a flowchart showing an example of an operation flow example 1 of the odor presentation control system 100. FIG. 26I is a flowchart showing an example of an operation flow example 2 of the odor presentation control system 100. FIG. 26I is a flowchart showing a supplementary flow example of the operation flow example 2. FIG. 26I is a block diagram showing an example of an embodiment of the odor presentation control system 100. FIG. 26I is a flowchart showing an operation flow example 3 of the odor presentation control system 100.FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an operational image of the odor presentation control system 100 that is different from that shown in FIG. 32.

[0011] Preferred embodiments for implementing the present technology will be described below with reference to the drawings. The embodiments described below are examples of typical embodiments of the present technology, and are not intended to narrow the scope of the present technology. The description will be given in the following order. 1. First Embodiment (Odor Presentation Control System 100) (1) Odor Presentation Unit 101 (1-1) First Embodiment of Odor Presentation Unit 101 (1-1-1) Volatile Organic Molecule Presentation Cartridge 1 (1-1-2) Air Source 15 (1-2) Second Embodiment of Odor Presentation Unit 101 (1-3) Third Embodiment of Odor Presentation Unit 101 (1-4) Others (2) Information Acquisition Unit 102 (3) Control Unit 103 (4) Storage Unit 104 (5) Output Unit (6) User Interface Unit (7) Operational Flow Examples of the Odor Presentation Control System 100 (7-1) Operational Flow Example 1 (7-2) Operational Flow Example 2 2. Second embodiment (odor presentation control system 100) (1) Deodorizing device 105 (2) Example of operation flow of odor presentation control system 100 (2-1) Example of operation flow 3 3. Third embodiment (odor presentation control device) 4. Example of application of odor presentation control system 100

[0012] 1. First embodiment (odor presentation control system 100)

[0013] In this embodiment, the odor presentation control system 100 includes at least one or more odor presentation units 101, an information acquisition unit 102, and a control unit 103. Furthermore, the odor presentation control system 100 may also include a storage unit 104, an output unit, a user interface unit, etc., as necessary.

[0014] In this embodiment, these units may be connected wirelessly or by wire via various networks. Furthermore, there may be a plurality of these units, and they may be provided externally, such as in a cloud, and connected wirelessly or by wire via various networks.

[0015] As described above, the prior art has not been able to adequately address the need to deal with malfunctions of the odor presentation unit that presents the odor.

[0016] Here, among the prior art, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-131142 discloses that the communication unit sends abnormal information to the user indicating that the fragrance emitting device may have been stolen because communication has been disabled. However, there is no disclosure of other methods for detecting or notifying malfunctions in the fragrance emitting device itself, and since this is a fragrance emitting device designed to be placed indoors, there is no mention of having a spare fragrance emitting device as a countermeasure in case of malfunction, or of detecting a malfunction and automatically switching to the spare fragrance emitting device.

[0017] Furthermore, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2019-48071 discloses a device that provides a marker material separately from a fragrance, and ejects them together. When the measurement result of a gas sensor disposed at the cartridge's outlet and capable of detecting the marker material falls below a predetermined value, it determines that the remaining amount of marker material and fragrance is low and notifies the user that the cartridge needs to be replaced. However, there is no mention of automatically switching to a spare cartridge as a countermeasure in the event of a malfunction. Furthermore, the invention described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Publication No. 2019-48071 does not distinguish between malfunctions of other mechanisms, such as the remaining amount of marker material, the remaining amount of fragrance, the blower fan, or the communication mechanism if the cartridge receives a drive signal via communication, and therefore always requires replacement of each cartridge.

[0018] Furthermore, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-254236 discloses the provision of an auxiliary deodorizing / fragrance processing space D that functions in the event of a malfunction of the deodorizing device and fragrance processing device installed in the deodorizing / fragrance processing space C. However, the space C and the space D are not adjacent cartridges but are separated into individual compartments, and are quite spatially separated, as can be seen from Figure 2 of Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-254236. Furthermore, there is no description of how to detect malfunctions or the like of the deodorizing device and fragrance processing device installed in the space C, or how to automatically switch to the space D in the event of a malfunction or the like.

[0019] This technology provides a solution to these problems, and can provide stable odor presentation to the user by automatically detecting a malfunction of the odor presentation unit 101 (described later) and switching to a spare odor presentation unit 101. Furthermore, it can also perform odor presentation control applicable to all applications, such as localized fragrance and deodorization.

[0020] Each component of the odor presentation control system 100 will be described in detail below.

[0021] (1) Odor Presentation Unit 101

[0022] The odor presentation unit 101 is a component that presents an odor based on odor presentation conditions. The odor presentation unit 101 may have the following configurations, for example. However, in the present technology, the configuration of the odor presentation unit 101 is not limited to the following configurations.

[0023] (1-1) First embodiment of the odor presentation unit 101

[0024] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a first embodiment of an odor presenting unit 101. In this embodiment, the odor presenting unit 101 includes at least a volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 (hereinafter sometimes simply referred to as "cartridge 1") having an ejection unit 14 that ejects volatile organic molecule-containing air K (see the black arrow in FIG. 1), and an air source 15 that generates auxiliary air. Furthermore, the odor presenting unit 101 may include an information display unit, a linear motion mechanism 18, an odor control unit 106, and the like, as needed.

[0025] In this embodiment, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 and the air blowing source 15 may be provided in the same housing as shown in FIG. 1, but may also be separate bodies.

[0026] (1-1-1) Cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules 1

[0027] Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of an embodiment of a part of the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 1. In this embodiment, the cartridge 1 is not particularly limited in other configuration as long as it has an outlet part 14 that discharges volatile organic molecule-containing air K. For example, in the embodiment shown in Fig. 2, the cartridge 1 at least has a holding part 11 that holds volatile organic molecules, a vent part 12 that takes in air, a flow part 13 that communicates with the vent part 12 and has at least one or more spiral flow paths 131, and an outlet part 14 that communicates with the flow part 13 and discharges volatile organic molecule-containing air K.

[0028] In this embodiment, the material forming the housing of the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, metals such as stainless steel (SUS (Steel Use Stainless)) and aluminum; resins such as polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, phenolic resin, olefin resin, acrylic resin, urethane resin, ABS resin, polyether ether ketone resin, polyacetal resin, fluororesin, cycloolefin polymer resin, polyimide resin; pottery; porcelain; ceramic; or one or more of these may be freely combined.

[0029] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules may have a shape that combines a plurality of approximately cylindrical shapes with different diameters, as shown in FIG. 2 . However, the shape of the cartridge 1 is not particularly limited as long as there is space inside to store at least the holding section 11 and the flow section 13 described below. The shape of the cartridge 1 may be, for example, an approximately polygonal prism such as an approximately cylindrical, elliptical, triangular, or square prism (including those with rounded corners), an approximately polygonal pyramid such as an approximately conical, elliptical, triangular, or square prism (including those with rounded corners), an approximately polygonal pyramid such as an approximately truncated cone, an approximately truncated elliptical, triangular, or square prism (including those with rounded corners), or a freely combined shape of one or more of these.

[0030] <Holding part 11>

[0031] The holding unit 11 is a portion that holds volatile organic molecules. That is, in this embodiment, the odor presenting unit 101 holds a fragrance, which is an ingredient that can present volatile organic molecules therein.

[0032] As used herein, "volatile organic molecules" include any molecule that stimulates some or all of the receptors present in the nasal cavity, such as volatile organic molecules. Therefore, "volatile organic molecules" also include odor molecules. In addition to olfactory receptors, the nasal cavity also contains trigeminal receptors that control stimuli such as cold, hot, and painful sensations. The term "volatile organic molecules" as used herein is a broad concept that includes any molecule that stimulates some or all of these receptors. Specifically, for example, when menthol is used as a volatile organic molecule, menthol can stimulate not only olfactory receptors but also the trigeminal nerve receptor (TRPA1 channel), and therefore is included in the "volatile organic molecules" as used herein. Furthermore, components such as capsaicin, which are not perceived by volatile organic molecules but stimulate the trigeminal nerve in the nostrils to produce a warm sensation, are odorless but are included in volatile organic molecules. Furthermore, for agricultural applications, pheromones, which are so-called odorless volatile organic molecules, are also included.

[0033] The holder 11 is not particularly limited as long as it can hold volatile organic molecules, but for example, it can be an impregnated material impregnated with a fragrance.

[0034] The material forming the impregnating material may be, for example, an organic polymer material to facilitate infiltration of volatile organic molecules. Examples of organic polymer materials include polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, phenolic resin, olefin resin, nylon, polyester, synthetic rubber, silicone resin, natural rubber, proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, polysaccharides, etc., or any combination of one or more of these. Other examples include polymer resins such as acrylic resin, urethane resin, ABS resin, polyether ether ketone resin, polyacetal resin, fluororesin, cycloolefin polymer resin, and polyimide resin; metals such as stainless steel and aluminum; inorganic crystals such as quartz; glass; filter paper; and any combination of one or more of these. The impregnating material may also be formed into a porous structure, such as a mesh structure, cork, mesoporous silica, calcium carbonate, etc. Furthermore, the impregnating material may be formed into a fibrous structure or a layered structure (e.g., clay minerals, etc.).

[0035] The form of the impregnating material is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a sheet, a mesh, a strip (including a dense body thereof), a particle (including a dense body thereof), a gel, a liquid (including a liquid maintained by the surface tension of a support or the like), a foam, a three-dimensional structure (for example, a pinholder, a spiral, a spring, etc.), a string (including a dense body thereof), and the like, or any combination of one or more of these.

[0036] In this embodiment, the impregnating material is in a sheet form, as shown in Fig. 2, and is rolled into a substantially cylindrical shape and stored in a substantially cylindrical cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules having a hollow portion. By forming the impregnating material in a sheet form, it becomes easier to store in the substantially cylindrical cartridge 1, improving production efficiency. Note that, although the sheet-like impregnating material in Fig. 2 has a single-layer structure, it is also possible to store multiple layers stacked in the cartridge 1 as needed.

[0037] The volatile organic molecules supported on the impregnating material are not particularly limited as long as they are components (fragrances) capable of presenting volatile organic molecules. Specifically, liquid fragrances, powdered fragrances, etc., liquid fragrances or powdered fragrances dissolved or dispersed in an appropriate solvent, essential oils, essential oils diluted with an appropriate solvent, fruit juice, food or beverages, fruit juice or food or beverages dissolved or dispersed in an appropriate solvent, etc., or any combination of these may be used. The impregnating material may also contain components other than those capable of presenting volatile organic molecules, such as components that exert a pharmacological effect when inhaled. Furthermore, if necessary, the impregnating material may not contain components capable of presenting volatile organic molecules, and odorless air may be emitted using the mechanism of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1. In this case, the odorless air may also be used for applications such as air curtains.

[0038] <Ventilation section 12>

[0039] The ventilation section 12 is a section for taking in air. The air is basically the outside air around the volatile organic molecule presentation cartridge 1, but it may also be air collected from a specific location, air containing a specific substance, or the like.

[0040] There are various methods for taking in air into the ventilation section 12, but for example, air can be taken in by directly moving a component such as a pump that abuts against a part of the flow section 13 through the ventilation section 12.

[0041] Note that components such as the pump and the power source for the components may be integrated with the cartridge 1 (i.e., formed in the same housing), or may be formed separately and combined with the cartridge 1 before being linearly moved. The white arrow in Figure 2 indicates the pressing direction of the components such as the pump. In this embodiment, for example, the linear movement mechanism 18 is used to open and close the ventilation section 12.

[0042] 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the linear motion mechanism 18. In this embodiment, by using the linear motion mechanism 18, the pump section 61 can be linearly moved relative to the cartridge 1 to press and open or close any one or more selected from the group consisting of the vent section cover 121, the discharge section cover 141, and a member (valve) 64 provided between the pump section 61 and the cartridge 1. This allows air to flow efficiently and eliminates the need to separately provide a member such as a plunger X, thereby reducing the number of parts and providing a compact opening and closing mechanism.

[0043] The linear motion mechanism 18 includes at least a pump unit 61, a sealing unit 62, and a linear motion movable source 63. Other units may also be included as necessary. As shown in FIG. 3 , the pump unit 61 moves in part or in whole in a linear motion direction as the linear motion movable source 63 moves, thereby pressing on one or more members selected from the group consisting of the vent lid 121, the discharge lid 141, and a member 64 provided between the pump unit 61 and the cartridge 1, thereby opening and closing them. After the cartridge 1 is opened in response to the movement of the pump unit 61, the sealing unit 62 can be provided at an appropriate location, as shown in FIG. 3 , to prevent the intrusion of excess outside air, dust, and the like.

[0044] The material forming the pump portion 61 and the sealing portion 62 is not particularly limited, but is preferably flexible. Specific examples include polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, phenolic resin, olefin resin, nylon, polyester, synthetic rubber, silicone resin, natural rubber, acrylic resin, urethane resin, ABS resin, polyether ether ketone resin, polyacetal resin, fluororesin, cycloolefin polymer resin, and polyimide resin, and any combination of one or more of these may be used.

[0045] The shape of the pump portion 61 is not particularly limited, and may be a substantially polygonal prism such as a substantially circular cylinder, a substantially elliptical cylinder, a substantially triangular prism, or a substantially square prism (including those with rounded corners), a substantially polygonal pyramid such as a substantially conical, a substantially elliptical cone, a substantially triangular pyramid, or a substantially square pyramid (including those with rounded corners), a substantially polygonal pyramid such as a substantially truncated cone, a substantially truncated elliptical cone, a substantially triangular pyramid, or a substantially square pyramid (including those with rounded corners), or a shape that is a free combination of one or more of these shapes. Furthermore, for example, a shape that combines substantially cylindrical shapes with different diameters may also be used.

[0046] The linearly moving source 63 is not particularly limited as long as it can move the pump portion 61 in the linear direction, and examples thereof include an actuator equipped with a shape memory alloy (SMA), a motor, a solenoid, a linear slide type, a pneumatic (air pump type), a small electromagnet, etc. Note that the term "linearly moving" as used herein does not only refer to a case where one member moves in a linear direction, but also includes a case where some members of a group of multiple connected members move in a linear direction.

[0047] In this embodiment, the axial flow from the air source 15 may be used as the linearly moving source 63 .

[0048] <Flow section 13>

[0049] The flow passage 13 is a portion that communicates with the ventilation portion 12 and includes at least one spiral flow path 131. By including the spiral flow path 131, manufacturability can be improved by utilizing rolling, a method used to manufacture screws and the like. Furthermore, since the flow passage 13 can be metallized, the flow passage 13 can be formed from a material with high chemical resistance and / or low gas permeability. Furthermore, the flow passage 13 has a simplified structure in the area through which the volatile organic molecule-containing air K flows, resulting in less residual odor. Examples of metals include stainless steel (SUS (Steel Use Stainless)) and aluminum, but the present embodiment is not limited to these.

[0050] In this embodiment, the flow section 13 particularly includes two spiral channels 131. In this case, as shown in Fig. 2, it is preferable that the retention section 11 is provided between the two spiral channels 131. In other words, the spiral channels 131 are located on both the inside and outside of the odor retention section 11. This further increases the contact area between the air flowing through the spiral channels 131 and the retention section 11, thereby more efficiently imparting volatile organic molecules to the air.

[0051] In this embodiment, a part or all of the holding portion 11 abuts against the spiral flow path 131. This increases the contact area between the holding portion 11 and the air flowing through the spiral flow path 131, thereby efficiently adding volatile organic molecules to the air. Furthermore, since it is possible to generate volatile organic molecule-containing air K even in a relatively short spiral flow path 131, the overall dimensions of the cartridge 1 can be reduced.

[0052] <Discharge part 14>

[0053] The discharge section 14 is a section that discharges the volatile organic molecule-containing air K. In this embodiment, the discharge section 14 is also in communication with the flow section 13. Note that the term "outside" as used in this specification also includes concepts such as a specific space and a specific place.

[0054] There are various methods for discharging volatile organic molecule-containing air K from the discharge unit 14 to the outside, but specific methods will be described later in <Example of operation of odor presentation unit 101 in the first embodiment>.

[0055] <Example of Operation of the Odor Presentation Unit 101 According to the First Embodiment>

[0056] In the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 shown in this embodiment, volatile organic molecule-containing air K is discharged by pressing a portion of the vent lid 121 from the vent 12 side of the cartridge 1. In this case, the vent lid 121 pressed via the vent 12 opens the discharge lid 141 via the shaft 130. As a result, air flowing in from the vent 12 flows through the flow passage 13, and the aromatized volatile organic molecule-containing air K reaches the discharge 14 through the open discharge lid 141, and the volatile organic molecule-containing air K is discharged from the discharge 14. After the volatile organic molecule-containing air K is discharged, the restoring forces of the discharge spring 142 and the vent spring 122 return the discharge lid 141 and the vent lid 121 to their original positions.

[0057] In this embodiment, the periphery of the ejection part 14 is formed from a separate member, thereby saving space for the members on the ejection part 14 side in the housing of the cartridge 1. This makes it possible to efficiently generate air K containing volatile organic molecules even in a limited space.

[0058] <Information display section>

[0059] Although not shown, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 may further include an information display unit. The information display unit is not an essential component in this embodiment, but is provided on a part of the outer circumferential surface of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1, and is a portion from which information about the cartridge 1 can be obtained. By including the information display unit, information related to the cartridge 1 can be obtained, leading to improved usability.

[0060] The information display unit is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a pattern image such as a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code; a marker or LED light formed in one or more colors; or a free combination of one or more of these. The information display unit may be read by, for example, a camera, a barcode reader, or the like, or may be visually determined by a person.

[0061] Examples of information held by the information display unit include the type of volatile organic molecules in the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1, the remaining amount of volatile organic molecules, the names of components that can present volatile organic molecules and allergen information for those components, the expiration date and number of consumptions of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1, the date and place of manufacture, and version information for the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1, but this is not limited to these in the present embodiment.

[0062] In addition, when a part of the outer peripheral surface has a curvature, it is preferable that the information display unit is printed or attached to the part of the outer peripheral surface to an extent that it can be read by the above-mentioned camera, barcode, etc. In this case, the information display unit as a pattern image may be printed onto the part of the outer peripheral surface by projection.

[0063] Furthermore, the information display unit may be linked to application software, and information acquired via the application software may be displayed on a screen of a smartphone, a wearable device, a tablet device, a computer, a game console, etc. In this case, by utilizing the application software, a user may add additional information to the acquired information, such as whether or not the volatile organic molecule is preferable, and the additional information acquired from one or more users may be accumulated on a server or cloud and used for machine learning, etc.

[0064] Markers, LED lights, and the like formed in one or more colors may be used to add design features to the cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules.

[0065] <Odor control unit 106>

[0066] Although not shown, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1 may further include an odor control unit 106. The odor control unit 106 is a component that controls the odor presenting unit 101 based on instructions from the control unit 103, which will be described later. It is also possible for the odor control unit 106 to control one or more odor presenting units 101 based on instructions from the odor control unit 106 itself.

[0067] The odor control unit 106 may be integrated with the cartridge 1 (i.e., formed in the same housing), or may be formed separately and connected wirelessly or by wire to the cartridge 1. Furthermore, one or more odor control units 106 may be provided for multiple odor presentation units 101, as shown in FIG. 25 described below, or one odor control unit 106 may be provided for each odor presentation unit 101.

[0068] Specifically, the odor presentation conditions described below can be realized by, for example, replacing the cartridge 1, mixing the volatile organic molecule-containing air K from multiple cartridges 1 at a desired ratio, controlling the amount and speed of the volatile organic molecule-containing air K, the remaining amount and concentration of the fragrance in the cartridge 1 used, the number of times the volatile organic molecule-containing air K is ejected, the ejection time and ejection stop time, etc., or by controlling one or more of these in combination. Furthermore, the odor control unit 106 can also contribute to the realization of the odor presentation conditions by controlling the linear motion mechanism 18, etc., as necessary.

[0069] (1-1-2) Air Source 15 According to the First Embodiment

[0070] The air blowing source 15 is a part that generates auxiliary air, which is used for the purpose of delivering the volatile organic molecule-containing air K in a desired direction or range.

[0071] The air blowing source 15 that generates the auxiliary airflow is not particularly limited as long as it can generate the auxiliary airflow, and may be, for example, an axial fan, a blower fan, a centrifugal fan, or a combination of one or more of these. The air blowing source 15 may also be a diaphragm pump, or a combination of a diaphragm pump using a piezoelectric element or a motor (e.g., a microblower) and an airflow expansion mechanism. Air conditioners, electric fans, circulators, air purifiers, humidifiers, commercial air conditioning systems, or a combination of one or more of these may also be used. Furthermore, the above-mentioned air conditioners may be used as the airflow expansion mechanism.

[0072] In this embodiment, the volatile organic molecule-containing air K and the auxiliary air may travel in approximately the same direction and mix together. This occurs because the auxiliary air, which has a larger flow rate and a faster flow velocity than the volatile organic molecule-containing air K, is emitted from the discharge port 14, and the volatile organic molecule-containing air K, traveling in approximately the same direction as the auxiliary air, is caught up in and pulled by the auxiliary air. This makes it possible to give directionality to the volatile organic molecule-containing air K and deliver the volatile organic molecule-containing air K over long distances. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the volatile organic molecule-containing air K from stagnating, which in turn prevents odors from lingering mainly inside and around the exterior of the cartridge 1.

[0073] Although not shown in the drawings, the present embodiment may further include a flow path (duct) that continues from the air blower 15 to the discharge portion 14. By including the flow path, the auxiliary air generated from the air blower 15 can be efficiently discharged.

[0074] (1-2) Second embodiment of the odor presentation unit 101

[0075] 4 is a perspective view showing an example of the odor-exhibiting unit 101 according to the second embodiment. The odor-exhibiting unit 101 according to the second embodiment comprises at least a volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2 (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as "cartridge 2"). Although not shown, like the odor-exhibiting unit 101 according to the first embodiment described above, it may also include an air source 15, an information display unit, a linear motion mechanism 18, an odor control unit 106, and the like, as needed.

[0076] 5 to 10 are six-sided views of the odor presentation unit 101 according to the second embodiment. Furthermore, Fig. 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A, Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B, Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line C-C, Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken along line D-D, and Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line E-E.

[0077] In this embodiment, the cartridge 2 for presenting volatile organic molecules comprises an air vent 21 for taking in air, a flow passage 22 communicating with the air vent 21 and having an impregnating material 20 for impregnating volatile organic molecules, and an outlet 23 communicating with the flow passage 22 for discharging volatile organic molecule-containing air K, as shown in Figure 11, and part or all of the impregnating material 20 is made of an inorganic material, and the inorganic material has a macropore structure.

[0078] In this embodiment, the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 is generally cylindrical, as shown in Figure 4, but the shape of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 is not particularly limited, and may be generally polygonal prisms such as generally cylindrical, generally elliptical, generally triangular, or generally square prisms (including those with rounded corners), generally polygonal pyramids such as generally conical, generally elliptical, generally triangular, or generally square prisms (including those with rounded corners), generally polygonal pyramids such as generally truncated cones, generally elliptical, generally triangular, or generally square prisms (including those with rounded corners), or generally polygonal pyramids such as generally truncated cones, generally truncated elliptical, generally triangular, or generally square prisms (including those with rounded corners), or a combination of one or more of these. Furthermore, for example, it may also be a shape that combines generally cylindrical shapes with different diameters.

[0079] In the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2, the flow passage 22 is located at a position extending from the vent passage 21, the discharge passage 23 is located at a position extending from the flow passage 22, and the flow passage 21, the flow passage 22, and the discharge passage 23 are aligned in a substantially straight line. This reduces the number of parts and facilitates manufacturing.

[0080] <Ventilation section 21>

[0081] The ventilation section 21 is a section for taking in air. The air is basically the outside air around the volatile organic molecule presentation cartridge 2, but it may also be air collected from a specific location, air containing a specific substance, or the like.

[0082] 11 , the ventilation section 21 is made up of a ventilation opening 210, a first lid section 211, a first spring 212, a spacer 213, an O-ring 214, and a housing 215 that surrounds these components. In addition, a portion of a shaft 221, which will be described later, is also provided in the ventilation section 21.

[0083] The spacer 213 is preferably formed of a metal and / or an inorganic compound and serves to secure the first spring 212. The O-ring 214 is used to improve the sealing performance inside the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2. The first lid 211 and / or the housing 215 shown in FIG. 14 are also preferably formed of an inorganic material. This reduces leakage of volatile organic molecules due to the materials constituting the first lid 211 and / or the housing 215. It also prevents volatilization of volatile organic molecules over time. A preferred inorganic material is an inorganic material composed of a metal and / or an inorganic compound. The metal and / or inorganic compound is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, alloys thereof, and oxide films made of metal oxides.

[0084] There are various methods for taking in air into the ventilation section 21, and specific methods will be described later in <Example of Operation of the Odor Presentation Unit 101 According to the Second Embodiment>.

[0085] In this embodiment, the ventilation part 21 has a first lid part 211. This provides functions as a sliding rib 2111 and a check valve, which will be described later.

[0086] 11 and 14, the first lid portion 211 has a sliding rib 2111 that slides against the inside of the housing 215 of the ventilation portion 21. This allows the first lid portion 211 to slide smoothly when external air flows in through the ventilation opening 210. Note that the sliding rib 2111 can be provided on the outer peripheral surface of the first lid portion 211, for example, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 14, but is not limited to this in the present embodiment.

[0087] The first lid portion 211 also functions as a check valve. As will be described later in <Operation Example of the Odor Presentation Unit 101 According to the Second Embodiment>, after air flows in through the ventilation opening 210, the first lid portion 211 returns to its original position due to the restoring force of the spring 212, thereby preventing the airflow from flowing back.

[0088] In this embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 13 , a spacer 213 is provided downstream of the ventilation opening 210, and the first lid portion 211 and / or the spacer 213 have a liquid leakage prevention structure that prevents leakage of volatile organic molecules.

[0089] 16 is an explanatory diagram illustrating the liquid leakage prevention structure. For example, in the case of the first lid portion 211, the liquid leakage prevention structure forms a liquid reservoir by providing a recess 2112 on part or all of the inner periphery as shown in FIG. 16. Also, for example, in the case of the spacer 213, a notch 2131 is provided in a part, and the liquid reservoir is formed by the contact surface with the housing 215. By forming the liquid reservoir, the fluid is guided into the liquid reservoir, preventing volatile organic molecules from leaking to the outside.

[0090] Note that liquid leakage is particularly likely to occur due to capillary action when injecting liquid volatile organic molecules. For example, as shown in Fig. 16, liquid volatile organic molecules can be injected into the impregnating material 20 using a pipette or the like, and then the discharge portion 23 is tightened with a tool to seal it, but this embodiment is not limited to this method. In addition, liquid leakage may occur during storage, transportation, or when dropped, and the above-described liquid leakage prevention structure is also useful in such cases.

[0091] <Flow section 22>

[0092] The flow section 22 communicates with the ventilation section 21 and includes an impregnating material 20 for impregnating with volatile organic molecules. The impregnating material 20 is made of an inorganic material, and the inorganic material has a macropore (also referred to as a "macropore") structure. Macropores are generally pores with a diameter of approximately 50 nm to 0.5 mm. In other words, in this embodiment, the odor presenting unit 101 holds a fragrance, which is a component capable of presenting volatile organic molecules therein.

[0093] In this embodiment, the macropore structure may be at least one selected from the group consisting of a mesh structure, a fiber structure, a nonwoven fabric structure, a sponge-like structure, a foam-like structure, and a three-dimensional network structure. Among these, a mesh structure and / or a nonwoven fabric structure is particularly preferred. This improves the ability to support volatile organic molecules (particularly liquid volatile organic molecules). This also facilitates the manufacture of the impregnating material 20.

[0094] In this embodiment, the flow section 22 includes a shaft 221, an impregnating material 20, flow openings 222a and 222b, and a housing 223 surrounding these, as shown in FIG. 11 . The shaft 221 can be linearly moved by linearly moving a member that contacts it. The housing 223 is preferably made of an inorganic material. This reduces leakage of volatile organic molecules due to the material that makes up the housing 223. It also prevents volatilization of volatile organic molecules over time. A preferred inorganic material is an inorganic material made of a metal and / or an inorganic compound. The metal and / or inorganic compound is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, alloys thereof, and oxide coatings made of metal oxides.

[0095] In this embodiment, the housing 215 of the ventilation section 21 and the housing 223 of the flow passage section 22 may be formed as a single housing without being separated as shown in FIG. 4 and the like.

[0096] Examples of inorganic substances include metals, metal oxides, inorganic compounds, glass, asbestos, SiO2, inorganic products, etc. By constructing the impregnating material 20 from an inorganic substance, the influence of background odors, which are volatile organic molecules other than the volatile organic molecules to be supported or presented, can be reduced. In this embodiment, among these, metals and / or inorganic compounds are particularly preferred, and preferred metals and / or inorganic compounds include one or more selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, alloys thereof, and oxide films made of metal oxides. More preferred metals include stainless steel and / or aluminum.

[0097] In this embodiment, the inorganic substance constituting the impregnating material 20 may be formed into a fibrous structure, a clay-like structure, a layered structure, or the like.

[0098] The shape of the impregnating material 20 is not particularly limited, and can be a substantially polygonal prism such as a substantially circular cylinder, a substantially elliptical cylinder, a substantially triangular prism, or a substantially square prism (including those with rounded corners), a substantially polygonal pyramid such as a substantially conical shape, a substantially elliptical cone shape, a substantially triangular pyramid shape, or a substantially square pyramid (including those with rounded corners), a substantially polygonal pyramid such as a substantially truncated cone shape, a substantially elliptical truncated cone shape, a substantially triangular pyramid shape, or a substantially square pyramid (including those with rounded corners), or a shape that is a free combination of one or more of these. Note that these shapes may have a hole in the longitudinal direction for inserting the shaft 221.

[0099] Other shapes include, for example, a sheet, a mesh, a strip (including dense bodies thereof), a particle (including dense bodies thereof), a gel, a sol, a liquid (including a liquid maintained by the surface tension of a carrier or the like), a foam, a three-dimensional structure (for example, a pinholder, a spiral, a spring, etc.), a string (including dense bodies thereof), etc., or a shape that can be freely combined with one or more of these.

[0100] In this embodiment, among these, at least one selected from the group consisting of a substantially cylindrical shape, a substantially elliptical cylindrical shape, a substantially polygonal cylindrical shape, a substantially conical shape, a substantially elliptical cone shape, a substantially polygonal pyramid shape, a substantially truncated cone shape, a substantially truncated elliptical cone shape, a substantially truncated polygonal pyramid shape, and a sheet shape is particularly preferred. Among these, the sheet shape is particularly preferred, as shown in Figures 11 and 12. This improves the ability to support volatile organic molecules (particularly liquid volatile organic molecules). It also facilitates the production of the impregnating material 20.

[0101] In this embodiment, when the impregnating material 20 is in sheet form, it is rolled into a cylindrical shape so as to be wrapped around the shaft 221 and stored in the housing 223. This makes it easier to store the impregnating material 20 in the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1, improving production efficiency. Note that, although the sheet-like impregnating material 20 has a single-layer structure in FIG. 12 etc., it may be stacked in multiple layers and stored in the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 as needed. Furthermore, the degree of wrapping of the sheet-like impregnating material 20 can be freely determined as appropriate depending on the purpose.

[0102] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the shape of the impregnating material 20 is a mesh sheet and / or a nonwoven fabric, among other sheet shapes. This further improves the ability to support volatile organic molecules (particularly liquid volatile organic molecules). This also reduces the influence of background odors, which are volatile organic molecules other than the volatile organic molecules that are desired to be supported or presented.

[0103] The volatile organic molecules carried by the impregnating material 20 are the same as those explained in the <holding section 11> of "(1-1-1) Cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules," and therefore will not be explained here.

[0104] In this embodiment, the state of the volatile organic molecules may be particulate, gel, sol, liquid, foam, etc. Among these, the liquid state is particularly preferred in this embodiment from the viewpoint of ease of penetration into the impregnation material 20.

[0105] In this embodiment, the flow passage 22 has a housing 223 that surrounds at least the impregnating material 20, and the housing 223 that surrounds the impregnating material 20 has one or more protrusions 224 that protrude toward the impregnating material, as shown in Fig. 12. This allows the impregnating material 20 to be fixed in a desired position.

[0106] <Discharge part 23>

[0107] The discharge part 23 is a part that communicates with the flow part 22 and discharges the air K containing volatile organic molecules.

[0108] 11 , the discharge part 23 is made up of a discharge opening 230, a second lid part 231, a second spring 232, an O-ring 233, an inner cap 234, and a housing 235 that surrounds these components. In addition, a part of the shaft 221 is also provided in the discharge part 23.

[0109] The O-ring 233 is used to improve the sealing performance inside the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2. The second lid 231 and / or the housing 235 are preferably formed from an inorganic material. This can reduce leakage of volatile organic molecules due to the materials constituting the second lid 231 and / or the housing 235. It can also prevent volatilization of volatile organic molecules over time. A preferred inorganic material is an inorganic material composed of a metal and / or an inorganic compound. The metal and / or inorganic compound is preferably at least one selected from the group consisting of stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, alloys thereof, and oxide films made of metal oxides.

[0110] There are various methods for discharging volatile organic molecule-containing air K from the discharge unit 23 to the outside, but specific methods will be described later in the section <Example of operation of the odor presentation unit 101 according to the second embodiment>.

[0111] In this embodiment, the discharge part 23 has a second lid part 231. This provides the function of a sliding rib 2311 and a check valve, which will be described later. That is, the second lid part 231 has a sliding rib 2311 that slides against the inside of the housing 235 of the discharge part 23, as shown in FIG. 11 . This allows the second lid part 231 to slide smoothly when the volatile organic molecule-containing air K flows in through the flow opening 222b. Note that the sliding rib 2311 can be provided on the outer peripheral surface of the second lid part 231, for example, as shown in FIG. 11 , but this embodiment is not limited to this.

[0112] The second lid portion 231 also functions as a check valve. As will be described later in <Operation Example of the Odor Presentation Unit 101 According to the Second Embodiment>, after air is discharged from the discharge opening 230, the second lid portion 231 returns to its original position due to the restoring force of the second spring 232, thereby preventing the discharged volatile organic molecule-containing air K from flowing back.

[0113] <Example of Operation of the Odor Presentation Unit 101 According to the Second Embodiment>

[0114] Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing the state in which volatile organic molecule-containing air K is released from the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 2. An example of the release operation of volatile organic molecule-containing air K in the cartridge 2 will be described below with reference to Fig. 17 etc. Note that K in Figs. 13, 15 and 17 indicates the flow of air current.

[0115] In this embodiment, when the ventilation section 21 is opened while the impregnating material 20 is carrying volatile organic molecules, air flows in from the outside through the ventilation opening 210. The air that has flowed in further flows into the flow section 22, and is scented as the airflow passes near the impregnating material 20, becoming air K containing volatile organic molecules, which flows into the discharge section 23 and is released to the outside from the discharge opening 230.

[0116] Specifically, in this embodiment, the ventilation part 21 is provided with an opening / closing mechanism consisting of a first lid part 211, a shaft 221, and a first spring 212, and similarly, the discharge part 23 is provided with an opening / closing mechanism consisting of a second lid part 231, a shaft 221, and a second spring 232. These opening / closing mechanisms can be controlled, for example, by inserting a plunger X into the cartridge 2 using the linear motion mechanism 18 described in <Ventilation part 12> of "(1-1-1) Cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules" and connecting it to the shaft 221.

[0117] That is, when the pusher X is pressed, the pusher X pushes the first cover portion 211 toward the inside of the ventilation portion 21, and the ventilation opening 210 opens, allowing air to flow into the ventilation portion 21. At this time, the first spring 212 is compressed by the first cover portion 211.

[0118] When the first lid part 211 is pushed inwardly into the ventilation part 21, the shaft 221 attached to the first lid part 211 moves in the direction of the flow passage part 22. Then, the air in the ventilation part 21 flows into the flow passage part 22 through the flow passage opening 222a as shown in FIG.

[0119] The air that has flowed into the flow passage 22 is sent as an air current around the impregnating material 20. As a result, the air current imparts aroma as it passes around the impregnating material 20, and the volatile organic molecule-containing air K is released from the flow passage opening 222b to the discharge section 23.

[0120] That is, when the first lid part 211 is pushed inwardly into the flow passage part 22, the shaft 221 attached to the first lid part 211 moves in the direction of the discharge part 23. This shaft 221 pushes the second lid part 231 inwardly into the discharge part 23, and the air K containing volatile organic molecules in the flow passage part 22 flows into the discharge part 23 through the flow passage opening 222b as shown in Fig. 15. At this time, the second spring 232 is compressed by the second lid part 231.

[0121] Then, the air K containing volatile organic molecules that has flowed into the discharge part 23 is discharged to the outside from the discharge opening 230 .

[0122] After the volatile organic molecule-containing air K is released to the outside, the pressure on the plunger X is released, and the first lid part 211 is returned to its original position by the restoring force of the compressed first spring 212. Similarly, the second lid part 231 is returned to its original position by the restoring force of the second spring 232.

[0123] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, the airflow passes only around the outer periphery of the impregnating material 20 and does not pass through the inside, but depending on the shape of the impregnating material 20 and the degree to which the sheet-shaped impregnating material 20 is rolled, the airflow may pass through the inside of the impregnating material 20.

[0124] <Others>

[0125] In this embodiment, a D-cut shape 25 may be formed in a portion of the housing 235 of the discharge portion 23. This makes it easier to tighten with a tool. Note that depending on the shape of the tool, the D-cut shape 25 is not necessarily required, and the design can be freely changed as needed depending on the purpose.

[0126] Furthermore, when the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 2 according to this embodiment is attached to a cartridge holding part, it may have a fixing shape 26 that promotes fixation, for example, on the housing 223 of the flow passage part 22. The fixing shape 26 may be, for example, one or more grooves provided in a part of the housing 223. Note that, depending on the shape of the cartridge holding part, the fixing shape 26 does not necessarily have to be a groove, and can be freely designed as appropriate depending on the purpose. In addition, the housing 215 of the ventilation part 21 may have a fitting shape 27 for fitting with the cartridge holding part or a fall-off prevention shape 28 that prevents the cartridge from falling off the cartridge holding part. Examples of these shapes include a shape in which a part of the housing 215 is cut out. Note that, depending on the shape of the cartridge holding part, these shapes do not necessarily have to be a shape in which a part of the housing 215 is cut out, and can be freely designed as appropriate depending on the purpose.

[0127] (1-3) Third embodiment of odor presentation unit 101

[0128] 18 is a perspective view showing an example of the odor presenting unit 101 according to the third embodiment. The odor presenting unit 101 according to the third embodiment comprises at least a volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 3 (hereinafter, sometimes simply referred to as "cartridge 3") and a housing 35. Although not shown, like the odor presenting unit 101 according to the first embodiment described above, it may also include an air source 15, an information display unit, a linear motion mechanism 18, an odor control unit 106, and the like, as needed.

[0129] 19 is a six-view diagram of the embodiment shown in Fig. 18, where A is a front view, B is a rear view, C is a left side view, D is a right side view, E is a plan view, and F is a bottom view. Fig. 20 is a perspective view showing an example of the structure inside the housing 35 of the odor presentation unit 101.

[0130] In this embodiment, the odor presentation unit 101 has a substantially square prism shape as shown in Figures 18 and 19. However, the shape of the odor presentation unit 101 is not particularly limited, and may be a substantially polygonal prism shape such as a substantially circular cylinder, a substantially elliptical cylinder, a substantially triangular prism, or a substantially square prism (including those with rounded corners), a substantially polygonal pyramid shape such as a substantially conical shape, a substantially elliptical cone shape, a substantially triangular pyramid shape, or a substantially square pyramid (including those with rounded corners), a substantially polygonal pyramid shape such as a substantially truncated cone shape, a substantially truncated elliptical cone shape, a substantially triangular pyramid shape, or a substantially truncated square pyramid (including those with rounded corners), or a shape that is a free combination of one or more of these shapes. Furthermore, for example, the odor presentation unit 101 may have a shape that combines substantially cylindrical shapes with different diameters.

[0131] In the odor presentation unit 101, air K containing volatile organic molecules is discharged from the outlet 350 of the housing 35. When the odor presentation unit 101 according to this embodiment includes the odor control unit 106, the outlet 350 presents an odor as a result of the odor control unit 106 operating in accordance with the odor presentation conditions instructed by the control unit 103. The outlet 350 is provided in a part of the housing 35 of the odor presentation unit 101, for example, at the position indicated by E in FIG.

[0132] Figure 21 is a six-view diagram of the cartridge 3 for presenting volatile organic molecules, where A is a front view, B is a back view, C is a left side view, D is a right side view, E is a plan view, and F is a bottom view. Figure 22 is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in Figure 21, and Figure 23 is a cross-sectional view taken along line P-P of the embodiment shown in Figure 21. The cartridge 3 for presenting volatile organic molecules includes at least a holding portion 31, a vent portion 32, and a connecting portion 33.

[0133] <Holding part 31>

[0134] 23 , the holding unit 31 includes at least an impregnating material 30 for impregnating volatile organic molecules and a container unit 311. That is, in this embodiment, the odor presenting unit 101 holds a fragrance, which is an ingredient capable of presenting volatile organic molecules therein. In addition, in this embodiment, the lid unit 312 corresponding to the container unit 311 is joined to a part of the connecting unit 33, which will be described later. Note that in this embodiment, the joining also includes a mode in which the connecting unit 33 and the lid unit 312 are formed as a single molded part.

[0135] The material forming the impregnating material 30, the shape of the impregnating material 30, and the volatile organic molecules carried by the impregnating material 30 are the same as those described in the <holding section 11> of "(1-1-1) Cartridge 1 for presenting volatile organic molecules," and therefore will not be described here.

[0136] The container portion 311 preferably has a two-layer structure, and in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 23 , it is composed of an inner layer portion 3111 that forms the inside of the container portion 311 and holds the impregnating material 30, and an outer layer portion 3112 that forms the outside of the container portion 311. The material that forms the inner layer portion 3111 is not particularly limited, but in this embodiment, it is preferable that part or all of the inner layer portion 3111 be formed from glass or metal. Examples of metal include stainless steel (SUS (Steel Use Stainless)) and aluminum. In addition, in this embodiment, the inner wall of the inner layer portion 3111 on the impregnating material 30 side may be formed from metal foil or metal-plated.

[0137] <Ventilation section 32>

[0138] The ventilation section 32 includes an openable / closable ventilation opening 320. In the present embodiment, the ventilation section 32 is configured to be divided into two sections by the two ventilation openings 320 (320a, 320b) as shown in Fig. 23 , but this is not particularly limited in the present embodiment, and the ventilation section 32 may be configured as a single section, or may be configured as being divided into three or more sections, for example.

[0139] That is, in this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 23 , the ventilation opening 320 is composed of an inlet ventilation opening 320a for allowing air to flow into the cartridge 3 and an outlet ventilation opening 320b for releasing the volatile organic molecule-containing air K to the outside. An opening / closing mechanism is connected to these two ventilation openings 320 (320a, 320b). The specific structure of the opening / closing mechanism is not particularly limited as long as it can open and close the two ventilation openings 320 (320a, 320b), and can be freely designed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 24 , which will be described later, an opening / closing mechanism may be provided that is composed of sealing lids 321 (321a, 321b), a shaft 322, and springs 323 (323a, 323b).

[0140] In this embodiment, the ventilation section 32 preferably has a two-layer structure, and in this embodiment, as shown in Figure 23, it consists of an inner layer member 324 that houses the opening and closing mechanism and an outer layer member 325 that forms the outside of the ventilation section 32.

[0141] <Connection part 33>

[0142] The connecting portion 33 includes at least two connecting openings 40 (40a, 40b) formed in the lid portion 312 joined to the connecting portion 33, which connect the ventilation portion 32 and the holding portion 31, and a partition portion 41 arranged upstream of one of the at least two connecting openings 40 (40a, 40b).

[0143] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 23, the two connecting openings 40 (40a, 40b) consist of a first connecting opening 40a that releases air from the connecting portion 33 to the holding portion 31, and a second connecting opening 40b that releases volatile organic molecule-containing air K from the holding portion 31 to the connecting portion 33. In this case, air that flows into the connecting portion 33 via a first ventilation portion 326a shown in Fig. 24, which will be described later, is released to the holding portion 31 via the first connecting opening 40a and mixes with the volatile organic molecules, and then the volatile organic molecule-containing air K flows into the connecting portion 33 via the second connecting opening 40b and is released to the outside via a second ventilation portion 326b shown in Fig. 24, which will be described later.

[0144] In this embodiment, the partition 41 is disposed upstream of the second connecting opening 40b of the two connecting openings 40 (40a, 40b). By providing the partition 41, air that flows into the connecting portion 33 is forced to pass through the odor retention portion 31 to become volatile organic molecule-containing air K, and then flows back into the connecting portion 33. In this embodiment, the connecting portion 33 is provided with an opening / closing mechanism in the region where it connects to the ventilation portion 32.

[0145] <Example of Operation of the Odor Presentation Unit 101 According to the Third Embodiment>

[0146] 24 is a cross-sectional view showing the release of volatile organic molecule-containing air K from the volatile organic molecule-presenting cartridge 3. In this embodiment, when the ventilation section 32 is opened while an odor is held in the holding section 31, air flows in from the outside. The air flows into the connecting section 33, passes through one connecting opening 40a, and sends an airflow to the odor, which is scented as the airflow passes near the impregnating material 30, releasing the volatile organic molecule-containing air K. In this state, the released volatile organic molecule-containing air K flows into the connecting section 33 through the other connecting opening 40b, and is released to the outside.

[0147] Specifically, in this embodiment, the ventilation openings 320 (320a, 320b) and the connecting portion 33 are provided with opening and closing mechanisms each consisting of a sealing lid, a shaft, and a spring. These opening and closing mechanisms can be controlled, for example, by inserting the plunger X into the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 3 using the linear motion mechanism 18 described in <Ventilation portion 12> of "(1-1-1) Volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge 1" and connecting it to the shaft.

[0148] 24 shows only the state in which the plunger X and the shaft are connected, but when the plunger X is pressed while connected to the shaft, the plunger X pushes the first sealing lid 321a toward the inside of the first ventilation part 326a, opening the inflow ventilation opening 320a and allowing air to flow into the first ventilation part 326a. At this time, the first spring 323a is compressed by the first sealing lid 321a.

[0149] As the first sealing lid 321a is pushed inward toward the first ventilation portion 326a, the shaft 322 attached to the first sealing lid 321a moves toward the connecting portion 33. This shaft 322 pushes the sealing lid 331 inward toward the connecting portion 33, causing air in the first ventilation portion 326a to flow into the connecting portion 33. At this time, the spring 333 is compressed by the sealing lid 331. Due to the partition portion 41, the air flowing into the connecting portion 33 first flows into the holding portion 31 through the first connecting opening 40a provided in the lid portion 312, and sends the airflow to the volatile organic molecules held in the holding portion 31. As a result, the airflow is scented as it passes around the impregnating material 30, and volatile organic molecule-containing air K is released. This volatile organic molecule-containing air K flows back into the connecting portion 33 through the second connecting opening 40b provided in the lid portion 312.

[0150] As the sealing lid 331 is pushed inward into the connecting part 33, the shaft 332 attached to the sealing lid 331 moves in the direction of the second ventilation part 326b. This shaft 332 pushes the second sealing lid 321b inward into the second ventilation part 326b, and the air K containing volatile organic molecules in the connecting part 33 flows into the second ventilation part 326b. At this time, the second spring 323b is compressed by the second sealing lid 321b.

[0151] In this embodiment, since the second ventilation portion 326b is connected to the release ventilation opening 320b, the volatile organic molecule-containing air K that has flowed into the second ventilation portion 326b is released to the outside through the release ventilation opening 320b. After the volatile organic molecule-containing air K has been released to the outside, the first sealing lid 321a is returned to its original position by the restoring force of the compressed first spring 323a when the pressure on the plunger X is released. Furthermore, the sealing lid 331 is returned to its original position by the restoring force of the spring 333, and the second sealing lid 321b is returned to its original position by the restoring force of the second spring 323b.

[0152] (1-4) Other

[0153] The odor presenting unit 101 can change the amount of volatile organic molecules it supports as needed. This can be achieved, for example, by adjusting the dimensions of the above-described volatile organic molecule presenting cartridges (1, 2, 3) or by changing the type or volume of the impregnating material. Naturally, each of the above-described cartridges (1, 2, 3) may be provided with an impregnating material that holds a different amount or type of volatile organic molecules.

[0154] Furthermore, the odor presenting unit 101 and / or the cartridges (1, 2, 3) may be replaceable and disposable, thereby improving usability.

[0155] Furthermore, the odor presenting unit 101 and / or the cartridge (1, 2, 3) can be sealed and stored in a sealed container or the like until use (preferably immediately before use), thereby preventing deterioration of the components capable of generating volatile organic molecules. In this case, it is preferable that the container portion of the sealed container and the lid portion for the sealed container are partially or entirely (preferably entirely) formed from a material with high chemical resistance and / or low gas permeability. Examples of materials with high chemical resistance and / or low gas permeability include metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, nickel, titanium, and alloys thereof; resins such as PTFE (poly tetra fluoro ethylene) and ETFE (ethylene tetra fluoro ethylene); and glass.

[0156] The odor presentation unit 101 and / or cartridge (1, 2, 3) may be circulated with volatile organic molecules carried in the impregnating material, or may be circulated without volatile organic molecules carried in the impregnating material, and volatile organic molecules may be injected immediately before use.

[0157] Fig. 25 is a perspective view showing another example of an embodiment of the odor presentation unit 101. As shown in Fig. 25, the odor presentation unit 101 may be composed of multiple odor presentation units 101. In Fig. 25, each odor presentation unit 101 is housed in a substantially rectangular prism-shaped container 1011, which has at least an outlet 1012 through which volatile organic molecule-containing air K is discharged. However, the shape and size of the container 1011 and the shape, position, size, etc. of the outlet 1012 are not particularly limited and can be freely designed according to the purpose.

[0158] Furthermore, when multiple odor presentation units 101 are configured, the multiple odor presentation units 101 can be placed side by side and engaged with each other using an engagement mechanism (e.g., engagement using a concave-convex shape; engagement using a claw, pin, hook, clamp, etc.; engagement using an adhesive with adhesive properties that allow for removal; sliding engagement, etc.) provided on the side of the housing of the odor presentation unit 101, etc.

[0159] (2) Information acquisition unit 102

[0160] The information acquisition unit 102 is a part that acquires information related to the odor presentation unit 101. In this embodiment, one or more information acquisition units 102 may be provided. Furthermore, the information acquisition unit 102 may be integrated with the cartridges (1, 2, 3) (i.e., formed in the same housing), or may be formed as a separate unit and connected to the cartridges (1, 2, 3) wirelessly or via a wire.

[0161] The information about the odor presentation unit 101 may include any information about the odor presentation unit 101, and may be, for example, information about the operation of the odor presentation unit 101 and / or information about the surrounding environment of the odor presentation unit 101. This information about the odor presentation unit 101 is input in advance to the control unit 103 and / or the odor control unit 106, and may be read out and used as needed.

[0162] Examples of the information related to the operation of the odor presenting unit 101 include information related to abnormalities in the odor presenting unit 101 (e.g., abnormalities in the communication status with each component, abnormalities in the voltage (supply voltage) supplied to each component constituting the odor presenting unit 101, the remaining amount of fragrance being below a predetermined threshold, etc.), information related to the movement of the odor presenting unit 101, information related to the direction, duration, amount, stop time, and angle of discharge of the volatile organic molecule-containing air K from the odor presenting unit 101, information related to the fragrance in the cartridges (1, 2, 3) included in the odor presenting unit 101, the frequency, number of uses, duration, and history of use of the cartridges (1, 2, 3), or information related to the type and concentration of volatile organic molecules held therein. Furthermore, if the odor presenting unit 101 has an air source 15, a linear motion mechanism 18, an odor control unit 106, etc., information related to the operation of these components may also be included.

[0163] In this embodiment, it is preferable that the information regarding the operation of the odor presentation unit 101 is, among other things, information regarding an abnormality in the odor presentation unit 101. Detecting an abnormality in the odor presentation unit 101 can ensure stable operation of the odor presentation unit 101. Details will be explained in "(7) Example of Operation Flow of the Odor Presentation Control System 100" below.

[0164] Examples of information related to the surrounding environment of the odor presentation unit 101 include information related to the target of the odor presentation, information related to the airflow, ambient temperature, ambient humidity, and ambient wind direction around the odor presentation unit 101, information related to the distance from the target to the odor presentation unit 101, information related to a 3D map, and information related to airflow disturbances caused by the movement of targets, objects, etc.

[0165] The information about the environment surrounding the odor presentation unit 101 also includes information about the target to be locally scented and / or deodorized, such as one or more of the following: the target's height, the target's moving speed, the target's position, the target's nose height, and the density of multiple targets. Note that this information may be derived based on an algorithm that is based on the information acquired from the information acquisition unit 102.

[0166] It should be noted that the term "subject" as used in this specification is a broad concept that includes not only humans, but also all kinds of animals and plants, such as dogs, cats, monkeys, rabbits, hamsters, mice, guinea pigs, horses, cows, pigs, chickens, parakeets, parrots, owls, horned owls, squirrels, flying squirrels, turtles, lizards, snakes, salamanders, other animals, ornamental fish, insects, and plants.

[0167] In this embodiment, among these, humans are particularly preferred. The target is not necessarily a single individual, but can be one or more targets. That is, the odor presentation control system 100 can be applied to one or more targets. The target may be moving or stationary.

[0168] Specific examples of the information acquisition unit 102 include, for example, a ToF / Lidar sensor, a human presence sensor, an airflow meter, a thermometer, a hygrometer, communication using SIM or Wi-Fi, an environmental sensor, a vital sensor, a camera, a brightness sensor, an infrared sensor, an odor sensor, a gas sensor, etc., or one or more of these can be used in combination.

[0169] The information obtained from the various sensors described above is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include, for example, information regarding the height of a target, the moving speed of a target, the position of a target, the density of multiple targets, and the distance to a target from a ToF / Lidar sensor; information regarding the presence or absence of a target from a human presence sensor; information regarding the airflow itself and airflow turbulence from an airflow meter; information regarding temperature from a thermometer; information regarding humidity from a hygrometer; and information regarding one or more odor presentation units 101 from communication using SIM or Wi-Fi.

[0170] In addition, environmental sensors include temperature, humidity, air pressure, and ultraviolet radiation level; vital sensors include vital signs such as pulse, blood pressure, respiration, and body temperature, as well as brain pressure, brain waves, blinking frequency, blood loss, sweating (including sweating during sleep), tear secretion, level of consciousness, amount of excrement, facial expression, and emotion (including estimation based on information obtained from sensors); cameras include race, sex, age, whether or not an object is present, the moving speed of the object, the moving speed of the object, the position of the object, the height of the object's nose, the density of multiple objects, the total number of objects, the position of specific parts of the object other than the nose (for example, the face, hands, feet, back, etc.), and facial expression; and brightness sensors include indoor and outdoor sensors. Examples of sensors that can be used include brightness sensors that measure the amount of indoor lighting, entrance lighting, etc.; infrared sensors that measure changes in outside temperature, room temperature, radiant temperature, perceived temperature, human position, and the operating status of various devices (e.g., televisions, air conditioners, fans, circulators, air purifiers, humidifiers, commercial air conditioning systems, automatic doors, automatic toilet lids, non-contact thermometers, etc.); odor sensors that measure the air volume of volatile organic molecule-containing air K, type of fragrance, wind direction, odor, etc.; and gas sensors that measure information on nitrogen, oxygen, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, alcohol, fuel vapor gas, etc., or a combination of one or more of these, but this embodiment is not limited to these.

[0171] Although only one type of information obtained from the various sensors may be used, a more accurate representation of volatile organic molecule-containing air K can be provided by combining two or more types of information. Each sensor may measure by directly contacting a specific target or object, or may measure without contact. Some sensors are non-contact with a specific target or object, and this type of sensor can also be used in this embodiment.

[0172] (3) Control unit 103

[0173] The control unit 103 is a unit that determines the odor presentation conditions based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit 102. In this embodiment, one or more control units 103 may be provided. The control unit 103 may be integrated with the cartridges (1, 2, 3) (i.e., formed in the same housing), or may be formed separately and connected to the cartridges (1, 2, 3) wirelessly or via a wire. Examples of information acquired by the information acquisition unit 102 include information obtained from the various sensors described above. The odor presentation conditions may also be determined based on information that has been input in advance.

[0174] The odor presentation conditions determined by the control unit 103 include, for example, the type of volatile organic molecule (including cases where one type or two or more types are used in combination), the amount of volatile organic molecule-containing air K ejected, the concentration of volatile organic molecules, the ejection direction, diffusion degree, ejection range, ejection distance, ejection location, ejection time, ejection stop time, and number of ejections of the volatile organic molecule-containing air K, the mixing ratio in the case of a mixture of two or more types of volatile organic molecules, or a combination of one or more of these, but are not limited to these in this embodiment.

[0175] Furthermore, when there are multiple cartridges (1, 2, 3) for presenting volatile organic molecules, the control unit 103 may determine the same odor presentation conditions for the odor presentation unit 101 and / or cartridges (1, 2, 3), or may determine odor presentation conditions for each odor presentation unit 101 and / or cartridge (1, 2, 3).

[0176] In this embodiment, the control unit 103 may perform feedback control regarding the odor presentation conditions based on the information acquired from the information acquisition unit 102 .

[0177] In this case, the control unit 103 can set a desired environment based on the information acquired from the information acquisition unit 102. The term "setting" here includes both manual and automatic settings, and also includes settings that are manual or automatic up to a certain point and then automatic or manual thereafter. Specifically, for example, if a specific subject wants to create a relaxing environment, the control unit 103 can set the desired environment by changing the odor presentation conditions based on the information. Also, if the specific subject wants to create an environment in which they can concentrate, the control unit 103 can set the desired environment by changing the odor presentation conditions based on instructions from the specific subject and the results of the information.

[0178] The control unit 103 can communicate with, for example, the odor presentation unit 101, the information acquisition unit 102, the air blower 15, the linear motion mechanism 18, and the odor control unit 106 wirelessly (for example, via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.) or via a wired network. In this case, the odor presentation conditions may be determined by the odor control unit 106 and / or the control unit 103, or both the odor control unit 106 and the control unit 103 may be used in combination. Furthermore, the control unit 103 may be able to communicate with each unit of the odor presentation control system 100 via various networks.

[0179] The control unit 103 may be, for example, an application (application software) stored in a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a wearable terminal, a smart speaker, a personal computer, etc., but is not limited to these in the present embodiment. Examples of the application include a native application, a web application, a hybrid application, and an embedded application.

[0180] The control unit 103 may also include a storage unit 104 and / or an output unit, which will be described later. The control unit 103 may also include a user interface unit, which will be described later.

[0181] (4) Storage unit 104

[0182] The memory unit 104 is a component that stores all information, such as information acquired from the odor control unit 106, information acquired from the information acquisition unit 102, and information acquired from the control unit 103. The location and number of memory units 104 are not particularly limited, and they may be located inside or outside the odor presentation unit 101. When the memory unit 104 is located inside or outside the odor presentation unit 101, one or more memory units 104 may be provided for one or more odor presentation units 101, and there may be a memory unit 104 for each odor presentation unit 101. Furthermore, the memory unit 104 may be connected to the control unit 103 wirelessly or wired via various networks and may be provided on a server or cloud. In this case, each user can share all information stored in the memory unit 104 via the network.

[0183] The storage unit 104 may also perform machine learning using AI based on all stored information. Furthermore, the machine learning may be performed on a server or the cloud, in which case each user can share the results of the machine learning stored on the server or the cloud via a network.

[0184] Note that the memory unit 104 may be provided for each odor presentation unit 101, for example. In this case, the memory unit 104 may store information about the odor presentation unit 101, such as by running a counter at the timing of ejection of the volatile organic molecule-containing air K, and the information may specifically be, for example, the frequency of use of the odor presentation unit 101 (including the frequency of ejection). That is, it is preferable that the memory unit 104 stores the frequency of use of the odor presentation unit 104. By having the memory unit 104 store the frequency of use of the odor presentation unit 101, it is possible to determine the remaining amount of fragrance and predict the time for replacement.

[0185] (5) Output section

[0186] The output unit is a part that receives instructions via a user interface unit (to be described later) and outputs, for example, various types of information.

[0187] The output unit may be, for example, a visual display on a monitor, a screen of a mobile information terminal, a control device used for entertainment purposes, etc.; an audio output from a speaker, earphones, headphones, a microphone, etc.; a tactile output due to deformation of a member, a change in the arrangement of a member, a temperature change such as cold or warm of a member, a stimulation by a weak current, etc., or a combination of one or more of these, but is not limited to these in the present embodiment. Furthermore, the output unit is not an essential component of the odor presentation control system 100, and an external output device may be used.

[0188] (6) User interface section

[0189] The user interface unit is a portion that is operated by a user, and may display information about the volatile organic molecules to be emitted, information associated with the user, and the like to the user.

[0190] A user can access and control each unit of the odor presentation control system 100 through the user interface unit. Note that the installation locations and number of user interface units are not particularly limited in this embodiment.

[0191] The user interface unit displays various information to the user and receives instructions from the user, such as information about the odor presentation unit 101, information about the operation of the odor presentation unit 101, and information about the environment surrounding the odor presentation unit 101.

[0192] In addition, the user interface unit can obtain various information from the information display unit provided in the odor presentation unit 101 via the reading unit, and based on the various information, can manage, for example, numbers for individually identifying the odor presentation unit 101 and the volatile organic molecule presentation cartridges (1, 2, 3), manufacturing numbers, types of volatile organic molecules, concentrations of volatile organic molecules, dates of manufacture, etc.

[0193] The user interface unit may be, for example, a display, one or more buttons, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, a mobile information terminal, etc. The user interface unit is not an essential component of the odor presentation control system 100, and an external display device or control device may be used.

[0194] (7) Example of Operation Flow of Odor Presentation Control System 100

[0195] Fig. 32 is a diagram showing an operational image of the odor presentation control system 100, and Fig. 33 is a diagram showing an operational image of the odor presentation control system 100 that is different from that shown in Fig. 32. Note that the operational images in Fig. 32 and Fig. 33 also include the concept of the odor presentation control system 100 according to the second embodiment, which will be described later.

[0196] In FIG. 32 , the odor presentation control system 100 includes a plurality of information acquisition units 102, and the first information acquisition unit 102 acquires position information of the target α. Specific examples of the first information acquisition unit 102 include a camera, a ToF / Lidar sensor, etc. Next, the second information acquisition unit 102 acquires surrounding environment information. Specific examples of the surrounding environment information include airflow, and the second information acquisition unit 102 includes an airflow meter, etc. Then, based on the information obtained from the first information acquisition unit 102 and the second information acquisition unit 102, the control unit 103 issues an instruction to the odor control unit 106 to operate the odor presentation unit 101 from its initial setting position to an appropriate position. This allows appropriate volatile organic molecule-containing air K to be delivered to the target α when it moves from position A to position B. In this case, the odor presentation control system 100 may include a deodorizing device 105 to perform deodorization after discharging the volatile organic molecule-containing air K.

[0197] 33 , the odor presentation control system 100 includes multiple odor presentation units 101, and acquires position information of target α using a first information acquisition unit 102 (not shown). Next, acquires surrounding environment information using a second information acquisition unit 102 (not shown). Then, based on the information acquired from the first information acquisition unit 102 and the second information acquisition unit 102, the control unit 103 issues an instruction to the odor control unit 106 to operate the first odor presentation unit 101 from its initial setting position to an appropriate position. This allows appropriate volatile organic molecule-containing air K to be delivered to target α when it moves from position A to position B.

[0198] 33 , for target β, similarly to target α, a first information acquisition unit 102 (not shown) corresponding to target β acquires position information of target β, a second information acquisition unit 102 (not shown) acquires surrounding environment information, and the control unit 103 issues an instruction to the odor control unit 106 based on this information to operate the second odor presentation unit 101 from its initial setting position to an appropriate position. This allows appropriate volatile organic molecule-containing air K to be delivered to target β when it moves from position C to position D.

[0199] Even in this case, the odor presentation control system 100 may be provided with a deodorizing device 105 for each target in order to perform deodorization after discharging the volatile organic molecule-containing air K. The first odor presentation unit 101 and the second odor presentation unit 101 may be connected wirelessly or via a wired network, and for example, one of them may function as a spare odor presentation unit 101. Alternatively, a first odor control system 100 having a first odor presentation unit 101 and a second odor control system 100 having a second odor presentation unit 101 may be formed, and these odor control systems 100 may form a wireless or wired network with each other, and may mutually utilize all information acquired by the information acquisition unit 102.

[0200] An example of the operation flow of the odor presentation control system 100 will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0201] (7-1) Operation flow example 1

[0202] Fig. 26 is a block diagram showing an example of an embodiment of the odor presentation control system 100 including the odor presentation unit 101 of the embodiment shown in Fig. 25. Fig. 27 is a flowchart showing an example 1 of the operation flow of the odor presentation control system 100. Specifically, this is a flowchart showing the control of anomaly detection and fail-safe functions using the odor presentation control system 100 of the embodiment shown in Fig. 26. Note that in the embodiment shown in Fig. 26, a memory unit 104 is provided for each odor presentation unit 101, but this is not limited to this embodiment, and the memory unit 104 may be provided outside the cartridges (1, 2, 3).

[0203] Here, the main cause of the problem of the specified volatile organic molecule-containing air K not reaching the target is an abnormality in the odor presentation unit 101. In response to this, by using this flow, it is possible to check whether there is an abnormality in the odor presentation unit 101 and respond if a problem occurs with the odor presentation unit 101. For example, in applications such as attractions, stable operation can be achieved and a response can be made even if a problem occurs. Furthermore, if necessary, continuous operation can be continued for a period desired by the administrator (e.g., during the business hours of a theme park, during an event at a department store, etc.) so as not to be noticed by the target to which the volatile organic molecule-containing air K is to be delivered, and a broken odor presentation unit 101 can also be replaced during a period during which repairs can be made (e.g., after the theme park closes, after the event ends).

[0204] That is, in this flow, stable operation and troubleshooting can be achieved by checking whether there is an abnormality in the odor presentation unit 101, and switching the odor presentation unit 101 to be used from the odor presentation unit 101 that has been confirmed to have an abnormality to the spare odor presentation unit 101. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 25, two of the four odor presentation units 101 are spare odor presentation units 101.

[0205] Specifically, the information acquisition unit 102 checks whether there is an abnormality in the odor presentation unit 101. First, the information acquisition unit 102 checks communication between the control unit 103 and the odor control unit 106 (S101). If communication is not checked, even if the abnormal odor presentation unit 101 is repaired, if there is a problem with the communication function, signals cannot be received from the outside, and volatile organic molecule-containing air K cannot be stably discharged. Note that in this embodiment, the odor presentation unit 101 can be installed in the front seats, the back or side of the target, the ceiling, etc., but is not limited to these locations in this embodiment.

[0206] If communication cannot be confirmed (S101), the control unit 103 detects that the odor presentation unit 101 cannot confirm communication with the administrator (user) (S102). Here, for example, if S103 is repeated an arbitrary number of times (e.g., twice), the control unit 103 determines that the connection is poor and that "communication cannot be confirmed," and transitions to S102 and ends the process. After that, for example, a person may perform communication confirmation work, repairs, etc. Furthermore, if the control unit 103 and the odor control unit 106 are communicating wirelessly, if the connection has not been established for a certain period of time (e.g., 30 seconds, 1 minute, etc.), the control unit 103 restarts the odor presentation unit 101 (S104), and the process returns to S101 and repeats.

[0207] Next, if communication is confirmed, the information acquisition unit 102 acquires information about the odor presentation unit 101. Specifically, for example, the ID of the volatile organic molecule presenting cartridge (1, 2, 3) included in the odor presentation unit 101 is acquired (S104). Next, the remaining amount of fragrance in the odor presentation unit 101 is confirmed. Specifically, for example, the number of times the odor presentation unit 101 has been used is confirmed, and it is determined whether the remaining amount of fragrance is below a predetermined threshold (S105). Note that the threshold at which the fragrance becomes weak (the "predetermined threshold" here) varies depending on factors such as the type of fragrance, the number of times it is discharged, the discharge time, and the discharge concentration. One method for determining this is to communicate the cartridge ID and the number of times the volatile organic molecule-containing air K is discharged, which are stored in the memory unit 104 of each odor presentation unit 101, via an I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) to make the determination, but this is not limited to this embodiment.

[0208] Next, if the information acquisition unit 102 determines that the remaining amount of fragrance exceeds a predetermined threshold (normal), it checks whether the voltage (supply voltage) supplied to the odor presentation unit 101 is normal. Specifically, for example, it determines whether the voltage supplied to the linear motion mechanism 18 is normal (S106). If it determines that the supply voltage is normal, it determines whether the voltage supplied to the air source 15 is normal (S107). If it determines that the supply voltage is normal, the odor presentation unit 101 emits air K containing volatile organic molecules (S108).

[0209] On the other hand, if an abnormality is determined in one or more steps of the group consisting of S105, S106, and S107, the odor presentation unit 101 to be used is switched from the odor presentation unit 101 confirmed to be abnormal to a spare odor presentation unit 101. Specifically, for example, in the odor presentation unit 101 confirmed to be abnormal in S105, the odor presentation unit 101 to be used in the corresponding odor presentation control system 100 is switched from the odor presentation unit 101 in which the remaining amount of fragrance is confirmed to be equal to or less than a predetermined threshold to the spare odor presentation unit 101. Furthermore, in the odor presentation unit 101 confirmed to be abnormal in S106 and / or S107, the odor presentation unit 101 to be used in the corresponding odor presentation control system 100 is switched from the odor presentation unit 101 in which the voltage is confirmed to be abnormal to the spare odor presentation unit 101. Next, the odor control unit 106 turns off communication with the abnormal odor presentation unit 101 (S109). Next, the odor control unit 106 notifies the control unit 103 of the odor presentation unit 101 that has been confirmed to be abnormal (S110). Here, the odor presentation unit 101 that has been confirmed to be abnormal may be replaced during a repairable period, such as when the subject is away from home.

[0210] In this flow, the determinations in S105 to S107 are made in no particular order. This flow also assumes that the odor presentation control system 100 includes multiple odor presentation units 101, such as the odor presentation unit 101 of the embodiment shown in Figure 25. By performing this flow for all odor presentation units 101, including spare odor presentation units 101, it is possible to determine which odor presentation unit 101 is malfunctioning.

[0211] This flow may be performed for all odor presentation units 101, for example, at the beginning or end of a day (i.e., all odor presentation units 101 are started and checked), and may be used to notify the control unit 103. Alternatively, a spare odor presentation unit 101 that is not started, as shown in FIG. 26 , may be started and checked, and, if necessary, may be used to switch from the odor presentation unit 101 that is being used. In this case, it is assumed that the power is always on, and that this flow is checked every time before the volatile organic molecule-containing air K is ejected.

[0212] (7-2) Operation flow example 2

[0213] Fig. 28 is a flowchart showing an operational flow example 2 of the odor presentation control system 100. Specifically, this flowchart shows an anomaly detection and fail-safe function using a part of the odor presentation control system 100 of the embodiment shown in Fig. 26. The effect of this flow is similar to that of "(7-1) Operational Flow Example 1" described above, and therefore will not be described here.

[0214] In this flow, S201 to S208 are the same as S101 to S108 in the above-mentioned "(7-1) Operational Flow Example 1," and therefore a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0215] If an abnormality is determined in any of S205, S206, and S207, the odor control unit 106 switches the odor presentation unit 101 (the odor presentation unit 101 to be controlled) used in the corresponding odor presentation control system 100 from the odor presentation unit 101 confirmed to be abnormal to a spare odor presentation unit 101 (S209). Next, the spare odor presentation unit 101 emits volatile organic molecule-containing air K (S210). Next, the odor control unit 106 notifies the control unit 103 of the odor presentation unit 101 confirmed to be abnormal (S211).

[0216] In this flow, the determinations in S205 to S207 are performed in no particular order.

[0217] 29 is a flowchart showing an example of a supplementary flow of operational flow example 2. Specifically, this is a flowchart for acquiring and updating the remaining amount of fragrance in the cartridges (1, 2, 3) using an odor sensor, which is one embodiment of the information acquisition unit 102. By using this flow, it is possible to accurately acquire information about the remaining amount of fragrance in the cartridge using the odor sensor.

[0218] In this flow, first, before ejecting the volatile organic molecule-containing air K, the odor sensor is activated (S301). Next, after ejecting the volatile organic molecule-containing air K, the odor sensor transmits the amount of aromatic to be ejected to the odor control unit 106 (S302). Next, the remaining amount of aromatic is read from the memory unit 104, and after subtracting the ejection amount read from the odor sensor, the remaining amount of aromatic in the cartridge stored in the memory unit 104 is updated (S303).

[0219] An odor sensor can also be used to detect abnormalities in the odor presentation unit 101. Specifically, for example, an odor sensor may be provided for each odor presentation unit 101, and if the odor sensor does not detect volatile organic molecule-containing air K, the odor control unit 106 may determine which odor presentation unit 101 is abnormal. In this case, the odor sensor may be provided within the odor presentation unit 101, or may be attached to the odor presentation unit 101 as an attachment.

[0220] The odor sensor may measure, for example, the volume of air containing volatile organic molecules K, the type of fragrance, the wind direction, etc. Specific measurement methods include, for example, detecting changes in voltage or mass due to adsorption / desorption to an adsorption film, but this is not limited to this in the present embodiment. The installation location and number of odor sensors are not particularly limited, but it is conceivable to install them near the target, for example. This makes it possible to accurately detect whether normal volatile organic molecule-containing air K is being discharged.

[0221] 2. Second Embodiment (Odor Presentation Control System 100)

[0222] 30 is a block diagram showing an example of an embodiment of an odor presentation control system 100. In this embodiment, the odor presentation control system 100 includes at least one or more odor presentation units 101, an information acquisition unit 102, a control unit 103, a storage unit 104, and a deodorizing device 105. The odor presentation control system 100 may also include an output unit, a user interface unit, etc., as necessary.

[0223] In this embodiment, these units may be connected wirelessly or by wire via various networks. Furthermore, there may be a plurality of these units, and they may be provided externally, such as in a cloud, and connected wirelessly or by wire via various networks.

[0224] As described above, the prior art has not been able to adequately meet the need for localized fragrance delivery using an odor presentation unit.

[0225] However, in this embodiment, the problems of localized fragrance tailored to a moving target, such as the influence of air currents and the time lag in the arrival of volatile organic molecule-containing air K at the target location, are overcome, and optimized control of localized fragrance, control of multiple localized fragrances within the same space, and deodorization control are realized when implementing localized fragrance.

[0226] Below, a detailed description will be given of each unit of the odor presentation control system 100. In this embodiment, one or more odor presentation units 101, information acquisition unit 102, control unit 103, storage unit 104, output unit, and user interface unit are the same as those described in "1. First embodiment (odor presentation control system 100)," and therefore description thereof will be omitted here.

[0227] (1) Deodorizing device 105

[0228] In this embodiment, a deodorizing device 105 is provided. Examples of the deodorizing device 105 include a deodorizing device including an adsorbent such as activated carbon, a suction device that sucks in odors, and a spray device that generates a mist that adsorbs odor-causing substances, but this embodiment is not limited to these. Furthermore, in this embodiment, there are no particular limitations on the installation location or number of the deodorizing devices 105, and they may be installed, for example, on the ceiling, under the floor, etc.

[0229] Furthermore, in S412 of "(2) Example Operational Flow of the Odor Presentation Control System 100" described below, in addition to the operation of the deodorizing device 105, the odor presentation unit 101 may perform operations such as discharging a deodorizing component or discharging a substance that counteracts the odor of the fragrance to be eliminated (so-called Olfactory White). Furthermore, the air source 15 of the odor presentation unit 101 may be used (without using the fragrance in the cartridges (1, 2, 3)) to form an odorless airflow, thereby dispersing or moving the fragrance to be deodorized.

[0230] (2) Example of Operation Flow of Odor Presentation Control System 100

[0231] In this embodiment, local fragrance and / or deodorization is performed based on information about the surrounding environment of the odor presentation unit 101. Note that, as explained in "1. First Embodiment (Odor Presentation Control System 100)," the information about the surrounding environment of the odor presentation unit 101 includes information about the target for which local fragrance and / or deodorization is performed. In this case, as described above, the target may be one or more. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the information about the target may include, for example, one or more pieces of information consisting of the target's height, the target's movement speed, the target's position, the target's nose height, and the density of multiple targets.

[0232] (2-1) Operation flow example 3

[0233] Fig. 30 is a block diagram showing an example of an embodiment of the odor presentation control system 100. Fig. 31 is a flowchart showing an example 3 of the operation flow of the odor presentation control system 100. Specifically, this is a flowchart showing dynamic control of a local fragrance. Note that while Fig. 30 shows two odor presentation units 101, this is not limited to this in this embodiment, and one or three or more odor presentation units 101 may be used.

[0234] In this flow, first, the control unit 103 controls the multiple odor control units 106, the information acquisition unit 102, etc. using various networks (including mesh networks) (S401). Next, the density of the multiple targets is detected using a ToF / Lidar sensor, which is one embodiment of the information acquisition unit 102 (S402). Next, based on the density of the multiple targets, it is determined whether to perform local fragrance application (S404). Specifically, if the density of the multiple targets exceeds a preset threshold, the continuous fragrance application mode is selected, in which volatile organic molecule-containing air K is continuously discharged, and volatile organic molecule-containing air K is discharged before returning to S402 (S403), and the process is repeated. If the density is equal to or less than the threshold, a local fragrance application mode is selected, in which volatile organic molecule-containing air K is locally discharged only to a specific target α. In S404, estimation may be performed by measuring images from the information acquisition unit 102 (e.g., a camera), or a 3D map may be automatically generated from video, and in addition to these, other information acquisition units 102 (e.g., a human presence sensor) may also be used.

[0235] Next, if the local fragrance mode is selected, the ToF / Lidar sensor measures, for example, the moving speed and height of the target α (S405). Then, information about the target α is sent to the odor control unit 106 (S406). In S406, as in S404, estimation based on image measurement from the information acquisition unit 102 (e.g., a camera) or automatic generation of a 3D map based on video may be performed, and in addition, another information acquisition unit 102 (e.g., a human presence sensor) may be used.

[0236] Next, the control unit 103 reads out previously inputted information about the environment (S407). Examples of the information about the environment include, but are not limited to, a 3D map and a fluid simulation. Next, the information acquisition unit 102 acquires information about the environment surrounding the odor presentation unit 101 (S408). Examples of the information about the environment surrounding the odor presentation unit 101 include, but are not limited to, the distance from target α to the odor presentation unit 101, airflow information, 3D map information, and information about airflow disturbances caused by the movement of people (including other targets such as target β, which will be described later) and / or objects.

[0237] Next, the control unit 103 uses an algorithm to predict the movement position and nose height of the subject based on the flow of S405 to S408, and determines the direction in which the odor presentation unit 101 will emit volatile organic molecule-containing air K (S409). Next, the odor control unit 106, in response to instructions from the control unit 103, controls the linear motion mechanism 18 based on information about the X, Y, and Z axes of the odor presentation unit 101, causing it to move in the determined emission direction (S410). Next, the control unit 103 and / or the odor control unit 106 selects a cartridge (1, 2, 3), sets the air volume, emission time, etc. (S411), and then emits volatile organic molecule-containing air K (S412).

[0238] In this flow, it is preferable to perform deodorization after aromatization. That is, n seconds after the odor presenting unit 101 emits the volatile organic molecule-containing air K, one or more deodorizing devices 105 deodorize the volatile organic molecule-containing air K by inhaling it (S413). Next, when the odor sensor confirms that the deodorization has been completed, the operation of the deodorizing device 105 is stopped (S414).

[0239] By using this flow, for example, it is possible to predict the behavior (including movement) of the target α based on information about the target α, and perform local fragrance and / or deodorization.

[0240] Furthermore, if it is desired to predict the behavior (including movement) of another target, target β, and provide local fragrance and / or deodorization, this can be achieved by following steps S405 to S413, as in the case of target α. Therefore, by using this flow, if there are multiple targets, it is possible to provide fragrance and / or deodorization appropriate for each target (here, target α and target β). In addition, as described above, if the target density exceeds a threshold, the continuous fragrance mode can be used to provide appropriate fragrance.

[0241] 3. Third embodiment (odor presentation control device)

[0242] The odor presentation control device according to this embodiment includes at least one or more odor presentation units 101, an information acquisition unit 102, and a control unit 103. If necessary, the odor presentation control device may also include a storage unit 104, a deodorizing device 105, an output unit, a user interface unit, and the like.

[0243] The odor presentation control device of this embodiment is a device configured to execute the processing of the odor presentation control system 100 described above, and since each part is the same as that described in "1. First embodiment (odor presentation control system 100)" above, explanation will be omitted here.

[0244] 4. Application Examples of the Odor Presentation Control System 100

[0245] The odor presentation control system 100 according to the present technology can be applied in a wide range of fields.

[0246] An application example of the odor presentation control system 100 will be described in detail below.

[0247] For example, it can be used in olfactory tests, olfactory training (including olfactory stimulation therapy), etc. The term "olfactory training" as used herein is broadly interpreted and includes practice for odor judgement tests, sommelier tests, aromatherapy certification, etc. In sommelier tests, for example, a wineglass-shaped odor presentation unit 101 incorporating a volatile organic molecule presentation cartridge (1, 2, 3) or the like may be used. It may also be used for volatile organic molecule simulation when developing pharmaceuticals, quasi-drugs, cosmetics, food and beverages, etc. Furthermore, it may be installed in relaxation products such as head-mounted displays, neck pillows, massage chairs, eye pillows, eye massagers, head massagers, hand massagers, and foot massagers, as well as in vehicles such as automobiles, buses, trains, ships, and aircraft.

[0248] Additionally, the present invention may be used in products for attracting customers, such as vending machines, signs, digital signage, robots, etc. In addition, the present invention may contribute to the presentation of volatile organic molecules according to exhibits, plants and animals in art galleries, museums, libraries, zoos, botanical gardens, etc., and may be used as part of the performance in concert halls, opera houses, live music venues, stages, movie theaters, amusement facilities, etc.

[0249] Other applications include generating volatile organic molecules that calm or lift mood, promote comfortable sleep, sleep, and awakening, dislike pests and vermin, and generating volatile organic molecules in elevators, stores, offices, and other locations depending on conditions such as time, location, and population density. Specific targets may be classified into ordinary people, athletes, pregnant women, hospitalized patients, babies, pet animals, and the like, and volatile organic molecules appropriate for each target may be generated. In this case, the specific target may be one or more, and the odor presentation control system 100 may adjust the presentation of odors on a facility-by-facility basis in gyms where athletes gather, obstetrics and gynecology clinics where pregnant women gather, hospitalization facilities where hospitalized patients gather, veterinary clinics where pet animals gather, and the like.

[0250] The present technology may also employ the following configurations. [1] An odor presentation control system comprising: one or more odor presentation units that present an odor based on odor presentation conditions; an information acquisition unit that acquires information about the odor presentation units; and a control unit that determines the odor presentation conditions based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit. [2] The odor presentation control system according to [1], wherein the information about the odor presentation units is information about the operation of the odor presentation units and / or information about the surrounding environment of the odor presentation units. [3] The odor presentation control system according to [2], wherein the information about the operation of the odor presentation units is information about an abnormality in the odor presentation units. [4] The odor presentation control system according to [3], wherein the odor presentation unit is checked for an abnormality. [5] The odor presentation control system according to [4], wherein the odor presentation unit to be used is switched from the odor presentation unit confirmed to be abnormal to a spare odor presentation unit. [6] The odor presentation control system according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the odor presentation unit holds a fragrance therein, which is a component capable of presenting volatile organic molecules. [7] The odor presentation control system according to [6], wherein the remaining amount of fragrance in the odor presentation unit is confirmed. [8] The odor presentation control system according to [7], wherein the odor presentation unit to be used is switched from the odor presentation unit in which it has been confirmed that the remaining amount of fragrance is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold to a spare odor presentation unit. [9] The odor presentation control system according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein it is confirmed whether the voltage supplied to the odor presentation unit is normal.

[10] The odor presentation control system according to [9], wherein the odor presentation unit to be used is switched from the odor presentation unit in which it has been confirmed that the voltage is abnormal to a spare odor presentation unit.

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

[10] , further comprising a memory unit that stores the frequency of use of the odor presentation unit.

[12] The odor presentation control system according to [2], which performs localized fragrance and / or deodorization based on information about the surrounding environment of the odor presentation unit.

[13] The odor presentation control system according to

[12] , wherein the information about the environment surrounding the odor presentation unit includes information about a target for which local fragrance and / or deodorization is to be performed.

[14] The odor presentation control system according to

[13] , wherein the target is one or more.

[15] The odor presentation control system according to

[14] , wherein the information about the target is any one or more of the following: the target's height, the target's moving speed, the target's position, the target's nose height, and the density of multiple targets.

[16] The odor presentation control system according to

[13] , which predicts the behavior of the target based on the information about the target and performs local fragrance and / or deodorization.

[17] The odor presentation control system according to any one of

[14] to

[16] , wherein if there are multiple targets, fragrance and / or deodorization appropriate for each target is performed.

[18] The odor presentation control system according to any one of

[15] to

[17] , wherein whether or not to perform local fragrance is determined based on the density of the multiple targets.

[19] The odor presentation control system according to

[12] , which performs deodorization after fragrance application.

[20] An odor presentation control device comprising: one or more odor presentation units that present an odor based on odor presentation conditions; an information acquisition unit that acquires information about the odor presentation units; and a control unit that determines the odor presentation conditions based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit.

[0251] 1, 2, 3: Cartridge for presenting volatile organic molecules 100: Odor presentation control system 101: Odor presentation unit 102: Information acquisition unit 103: Control unit 104: Memory unit 105: Deodorizing device 106: Odor control unit K: Air containing volatile organic molecules X: Pusher α, β: Target

Claims

1. An odor presentation control system comprising: one or more odor presentation units that present an odor based on odor presentation conditions; an information acquisition unit that acquires information about the odor presentation units; and a control unit that determines the odor presentation conditions based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit.

2. The odor presentation control system according to claim 1, wherein the information relating to the odor presentation unit is information relating to the operation of the odor presentation unit and / or information relating to the surrounding environment of the odor presentation unit.

3. The odor presentation control system according to claim 2, wherein the information relating to the operation of the odor presentation unit is information relating to an abnormality in the odor presentation unit.

4. The odor presentation control system according to claim 3, wherein the odor presentation unit is checked for abnormalities.

5. The odor presentation control system according to claim 4, wherein the odor presentation unit in use is switched from the odor presentation unit confirmed to be abnormal to a spare odor presentation unit.

6. The odor presentation control system according to claim 1, wherein the odor presentation unit holds a fragrance, which is an ingredient capable of presenting volatile organic molecules, inside the odor presentation unit.

7. The odor presentation control system according to claim 6, wherein the remaining amount of the fragrance in the odor presentation unit is confirmed.

8. An odor presentation control system as described in claim 7, wherein the odor presentation unit to be used is switched from the odor presentation unit in which it has been confirmed that the remaining amount of fragrance is below a predetermined threshold to a spare odor presentation unit.

9. The odor presentation control system according to claim 1, which checks whether the voltage supplied to the odor presentation unit is normal.

10. An odor presentation control system as described in claim 9, wherein the odor presentation unit to be used is switched from the odor presentation unit confirmed to have an abnormality in the voltage to a spare odor presentation unit.

11. The odor presentation control system according to claim 1, further comprising a memory unit that stores the frequency of use of the odor presentation unit.

12. The odor presentation control system according to claim 2, which performs local fragrance and / or deodorization based on information about the surrounding environment of the odor presentation unit.

13. The odor presentation control system according to claim 12, wherein the information about the surrounding environment of the odor presentation unit includes information about the target to be locally fragranced and / or deodorized.

14. The odor presentation control system according to claim 13, wherein the target is one or more.

15. The odor presentation control system according to claim 14, wherein the information about the target is one or more of the following: the height of the target, the moving speed of the target, the position of the target, the height of the target's nose, and the density of multiple targets.

16. The odor presentation control system according to claim 13, which predicts the behavior of the subject based on information about the subject and performs local fragrance and / or deodorization.

17. The odor presentation control system according to claim 14, wherein, when there are multiple targets, fragrance and / or deodorization appropriate for each target is performed.

18. The odor presentation control system according to claim 15, wherein a decision is made as to whether or not to perform localized fragrance application based on the density of the plurality of objects.

19. The odor presentation control system according to claim 12, wherein deodorization is performed after fragrance application.

20. An odor presentation control device comprising: one or more odor presentation units that present an odor based on odor presentation conditions; an information acquisition unit that acquires information about the odor presentation units; and a control unit that determines the odor presentation conditions based on the information acquired by the information acquisition unit.

Images