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The KnowsWatch: concept and prototype for a wearable chemosensory sensing device
S Weise1, W Jedryczka1,2, V Gonzalez1
1Smell and Taste Clinic, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
Background:
Olfactory dysfunction (OD) leads to significant consequences in daily life, including increased risk of exposure to toxic substances such as gas or spoiled food, concerns about personal hygiene, increased risk of depression about many other thinks.
Methodology:
This study examined patient needs for an electronic olfactory sensor and tested one potential application of a prototype device. Twenty-three Participants with OD completed a questionnaire identifying situations impaired by OD and their expectations regarding a sensor device. The prototype KnowsWatch, a smartwatch integrating an electronic nose, was trained in a laboratory setting to distinguish spoiled meat and fish from fresh samples.
Results:
Around half of the participants (44%) expressed interest in using KnowsWatch in their daily lives. Most prevalent mentions of desired functions were detection of smoke and gas (91%), recognition of spoiled food (74%), and personal hygiene (57%). KnowsWatch was trained to recognize spoiled and fresh meat and fish and achieved very good accuracy (100% each) in the laboratory environment.
Conclusions:
Patients with OD identify critical needs for wearable olfactory sensors, particularly for safety and hygiene applications. The KnowsWatch prototype demonstrates promising laboratory performance to distinguish fresh and spoiled food. Further real-world studies are needed to assess the practical utility.
