Study on a Flexible Odor-Releasing Device for Olfactory Training

Olfactory training has been shown to be effective in treating olfactory dysfunction. However, there are hardly any devices that can regularly and quantificationally release odors for olfactory training. A new odor-releasing device, which is low-cost, customizable, semi-automatic, and flexible, was developed in this study. The operation of the device can be easily achieved by the examiner, or even by the participant, simply by pressing a few buttons. A controller system with 15 individual relays was employed to master the working logic for the whole process. The device allows the examiner to isolate from the participants using the Bluetooth module in the control board. The odorants and their concentrations stored in the scent bottles can be customized by the specific requirements of different participants. The odors for training are provided by ultrasonic atomizers, which have simple structures, but powerful features. The flow rates of the odors can also be controlled by altering the rotation speed of the fans. Final experiments on practical odor generation further proved the potential of the developed device for olfactory training. More attention should be paid to the improvements of odor generation devices for olfactory training.