Scentsory design®

scent whisper and fashion fluidics

Jennifer Tillotson

pp. 403-417

in: Randy Adams, Steve Gibson, Stefan Müller Arisona (eds), Transdisciplinary digital art. sound, vision and the new screen, Berlin, Springer, 2008

Abstract

This paper examines a new experience focusing on smell and how it might expand our sensory repertoire; or maximise our sense of wellbeing through fashion. It explores Scentsory Design®, a multidisciplinery project that changes the experience of fragrance to a more intimate communication of identity, by employing emerging technologies with the ancient art of perfumery. Scentsory Design® specialises in the research and development of wearable wireless sensor networks and microfluidic devices for fragrance delivery and therapeutic applications in "emotional fashion". Intelligent fabrics are discussed which are engineered for pleasure, education, protection and psychological endbenefits, by offering social and therapeutic value in a desirable fashion context. The fabrics incorporate sensors and microfluidics to initiate fragrance delivery of beneficial aromas released in controlled ways responding to personal needs. The paper concludes by suggesting clothes that mimic the olfaction system via electronic nose sensors that emulate a dog's sense of smell.