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Early results of an objective olfactometer
C W Davies1, K E Donne, H B Whittet
1Faculty of Applied Design & Engineering, Swansea Institute of Higher Education, Mount Pleasant, Swansea, UK.
Journal of Medical Engineering & Technology
|July 29, 1998
Summary
Accurately measuring smell (olfaction) is challenging. This study introduces a low-cost, computer-based device using brainwave responses to objectively quantify olfactory function, showing promising early results for potential commercial use.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Sensory Science
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Objective measurement of olfaction is currently lacking.
- Accurate assessment of smell is crucial for diagnosing various conditions and understanding sensory perception.
- Existing methods for evaluating olfactory function are often subjective or lack standardization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and test a novel, low-cost, computer-based olfactometer.
- To objectively quantify olfactory responses using evoked potentials.
- To establish the clinical validity of the developed olfactometer.
Main Methods:
- Development of a computer-based olfactometer system.
- Utilizing the frequency content of evoked potentials (EPs) as a measure of olfactory response.
- Conducting clinical trials with over a thousand tests to validate the device.
Main Results:
- Early clinical trial results indicate the methodology is appropriate for quantifying olfactory responses.
- The system demonstrated the potential for objective measurement of olfaction.
- The developed olfactometer shows promise for future commercialization.
Conclusions:
- The novel computer-based olfactometer provides a viable method for objective olfactory assessment.
- Further development could lead to a commercially available device for measuring smell.
- This technology has the potential to significantly advance the field of olfactory research and diagnostics.