Incorporating Fluid Dynamics Considerations into Olfactory Displays
In this chapter, the authors describe fluid dynamics considerations regarding odor dispersal in real environments and their relationship with realistic odor presentation using an olfactory display. The authors propose the use of a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation in conjunction with the olfactory display. A CFD solver is employed to calculate the turbulent airflow field in a given environment and the dispersal of odor molecules from their source. The simulation result is used to reproduce realistic changes in the odor concentration with time and space at the nose. The results of sensory tests are presented as a demonstration of CFD-based odor presentation. The effect of body heat on odor dispersal in indoor environments and how it affects odor perception is also discussed.