Aerosol Generator Controller for XR Scent Simulation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current technologies fail to effectively render scents in virtual reality environments, lacking a common device capable of accurately simulating scent stimuli.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a processor, memory, and aerosol generators, controlled by a controller that receives commands to generate specific odor impressions based on spatial characteristics in an extended reality environment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional scent delivery systems are used in virtual reality environments, then the system complexity remains low, but the ability to accurately simulate scent stimuli is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescent stimulus accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system divides scent delivery into multiple independent aerosol generators, each capable of delivering specific odorants. This segmentation allows precise control over which scents are delivered and when, enabling accurate simulation of complex scent stimuli while maintaining manageable system architecture through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The controller serves multiple functions: it receives commands defining odor impressions, determines spatial characteristics, generates commands for aerosol generators, and coordinates timing. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, achieving high measurement precision without proportionally increasing system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple aerosol generators are used to generate diverse odor impressions, then the scent variety and accuracy improve, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveodor impression varietyVSAvoidnumber of aerosol generators
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically activates and deactivates specific aerosol generators based on the commands received. The controller adjusts the operational state of each aerosol generator in real-time according to the desired odor impression, allowing the system to adapt to different scent requirements without permanently maintaining all components in active state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The controller acts as an intermediary between the high-level odor impression commands and the physical aerosol generators. It translates abstract scent definitions into specific actuator commands, managing the complexity of coordinating multiple aerosol generators through a centralized control layer

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If real-time control of scent intensity and duration is implemented, then the realism of scent experiences improves, but the processing requirements and system complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescent experience realismVSAvoidcontrol mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses feedback from the spatial characteristics determination to adjust aerosol generator operation. By continuously monitoring the virtual environment context and adjusting scent delivery accordingly, the system achieves realistic temporal and intensity control while using algorithmic feedback loops that manage complexity through automated decision-making

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables realistic scent experiences in virtual reality by accurately simulating scent intensity, duration, and patterns, enhancing user immersion and interaction with virtual environments.

Implementation Method 1

A device and method for generating atomized fluid are provided. The device includes a tube having a proximal opening and a distal opening, an aperture element coupled to the proximal opening of the tube, a piezoelectric element attached to a surface of the tube, and a fluid supply source for supplying fluid through the tube to the aperture plate at the proximal end of the tube.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAerosolization: Aerosol

Data Source

PatentUS12311257B2Systems and techniques for generating scent
Publication Date: 2025.05.27 OVR TECH LLC
  • US12311257B2 patent drawing
  • US12311257B2 patent drawing
  • US12311257B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Described herein are systems and techniques for generating odor impressions of scents. Some embodiments provide odor impressions in an extended reality (XR) environment (e.g., virtual reality (VR) and/or augmented reality (AR)). The system determines spatial characteristics of an odor impression that is to be generated in the XR environment. The system generates one or more commands for generating the odor impression based on the spatial characteristics. The system transmits the command(s) to a controller for execution. The controller may control dispersal of scented media to generate the odor impression.