Wine Aroma Sensory Training Game Employing a Thermal Based Olfactory Display

The digital replication of smell - so called olfactory displays, remains one of the least advanced sensory technologies. Recent developments have focused heavily on virtual reality. However, there remains a need for olfactory displays targeted towards aroma training. In this paper, we present a thermal based olfactory display, using Peltier heating elements. The unit is fully computer controlled and holds up to 12 `aroma capsules'. Each capsule contains an individual aroma that can either be activated on its own or with others to create richer experiences. The unit has been designed as part of a wine aroma game to promote sensory training. It currently uses six different aromas that can be linked to either red or white wines.