WO2017217922A1

WO2017217922A1 - Scent identification system and a method thereof

Info

Publication number: WO2017217922A1
Application number: PCT/SE2017/050646
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jonas OLOFSSON; Ingrid EKSTRÖM
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2016-06-17
Filing date: 2017-06-16
Publication date: 2017-12-21
Anticipated expiration: 2018-12-17

Abstract

The present invention relates to a scent identification system (100), comprising a plurality of scent module pairs (131-133), each scent module pair comprising a first scent module (110) and a second scent module (120), the first scent module (110) comprising a first label surface (105) with a first pattern (107) and a first scent dispenser (106) configured to contain and dispense a first scent, wherein the first scent module (110) is structured such that the first pattern (107) is not visible when a user smells said first scent, the second scent module (120) comprising a second label surface (115) with a second pattern (117) and a second scent dispenser (116) configured to contain and dispense a second scent, wherein the second scent module (120) is structured such that the second pattern (117) is not visible when the user smell the second scent, wherein in a scent module pair, the first pattern (107) matches the second pattern (117) and wherein the first scent matches the second scent. The invention further relates to a corresponding method and computer program product.

Description

SCENT IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM AND A METHOD THEREOF

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a scent identification system. In particular for testing a human user's ability to identify scents. The invention further relates to a corresponding method and computer program product.

Background

Smell, or olfaction, is one of the senses used by humans to perceive the world around them, i.e. by perceiving and identifying scents. An impaired ability to perceive and identify scents is common following nose, sinus or brain surgery. An impaired ability to perceive and identify scents may also occur after sustaining nasal, sinus, or head trauma. Smell impairment may be an important indicator for various medical and neurodegenerative conditions. Individuals with impaired sense of smell are more likely to develop memory impairment or dementia, and they have an increased mortality risk in the decade following the olfactory assessment. There is therefore a need to test the ability, e.g. before and after or periodically over time, when suffering from Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease or dementia. Humans, unlike many other mammals, rely primarily on visual inputs rather than olfactory inputs, and therefore tend to use visual perception to enhance scent perception / olfaction. This may be a problem with some conventional systems when testing scent perception / olfaction as the visual perception may overrule the scent perception, e.g. seeing an apple when smelling the scent of a pear may cause the user to incorrectly identify the scent as originating from an apple. Some conventional systems for testing the ability of a user to identify a scent rely on the fact that in the process of identifying a scent, a human user compares the perceived scent to a stored knowledge representation in the brain of what is the source of the scent (a "reference" scent) by matching a scent to a reference from a list of labels corresponding to alternative scent sources (e.g. does this scent smell like apple, garlic, rose or pear?). A problem with these conventional systems is that they are essentially designed for usage in clinical or research settings and require a trained tester. Yet a problem is that the results are biased when repeating the test over time, as the user or test subject finds it progressively easier to match a scent to only one particular label. Once this correspondence is reinforced through feedback, task performance is dramatically facilitated without any improvement in the underlying abilities. Yet a problem is that the conventional systems rely on fixed lexical and knowledge-based representations, preventing flexibility in scent-based assessments. Thus, there is a need for an improved system and method for identifying scents, in particular for testing a human user's ability of identifying scents and improving it through repeated challenges.

Summary

An objective of embodiments of the present invention is to provide a solution which mitigates or solves the drawbacks and problems of conventional solutions.

According to a first aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objectives are achieved with a scent identification system, comprising a plurality of scent module pairs, each scent module pair comprising a first scent module and a second scent module, the first scent module comprising a first label surface with a first pattern and a first scent dispenser configured to contain and dispense a first scent, wherein the first scent module is structured such that the first pattern is not visible when a user smells said first scent, the second scent module comprising a second label surface with a second pattern and a second scent dispenser configured to contain and dispense a second scent, wherein the second scent module is structured such that the second pattern is not visible when the user smell the second scent, wherein in a scent module pair, the first pattern matches the second pattern and wherein the first scent matches the second scent.

An advantage of this implementation form is that it provides separate testing of the user's ability to perceive and identify a scent without influence of the user's ability to link the perceived scent to a "reference" scent stored as a label or memory by the brain, by providing a scent module pair allowing relative identification of a scent. It is thus not required that the user has previously experienced and stored the scent in long-term memory to test the ability to perceive and identify the scent. Yet an advantage is that the influence of visual perception over scent perception can be eliminated as the patterns are not visible when the user smells a dispensed scent. Yet an advantage is that the user's ability to perceive and identify scents is improved by repeated use of the scent identification system. Yet another advantage is that the system can be used regardless of the user's language abilities or ability to read, as the system only requires the user to match the first pattern to the second pattern. Yet an advantage is that a trained tester is not required and can be performed by the user alone. Yet an advantage is that results are not biased when repeating the test over time. Yet an advantage is that the invention does not rely on fixed lexical and knowledge-based representations. In a first implementation form of a system according to the first aspect, the first pattern comprises a first plurality of markings and the second pattern comprises a second plurality of markings, wherein the first plurality of markings matches the second plurality of markings, i.e. is the same when the scents match. In an embodiment of the first implementation form, the first plurality of markings and the second plurality of markings are a linear sequence of binary markings.

An advantage of this implementation form is that the probability that a user can memorize a pattern from an earlier attempt is reduced as the plurality of markings enables a significantly larger amount of combinations than the number of module pairs comprised by the plurality of scent module pairs. Yet another advantage is that the system can be used regardless of the user's language abilities or ability to read, as the system only requires the user to match the first plurality of markings to the second plurality of markings. Yet an advantage of this implementation form is that any bias in matching and/or identifying scent module pairs based on visual perception is eliminated or significantly reduced by providing markings that do not associate to or in any other way indicate the origin of the scent. Yet an advantage of this implementation form is that the first pattern and the second pattern can be read by a computer controlled scanner or camera.

In a second implementation form of a system according to the first implementation form of the first aspect or the first aspect as such, the first pattern is further arranged adjacent to a first edge of the first label surface and the second pattern is further arranged adjacent to a second edge of the second label surface, wherein the first pattern is mirrored in relation to the second pattern such that the first pattern and the second pattern match when a first edge of the first label surface is placed abut and aligned to a second edge of the second label surface.

An advantage of this implementation form is that the complexity of comparing and matching the first pattern and the second pattern is reduced as the physical distance between the first pattern and the second pattern is reduced.

In a third implementation from of a system according to any of the preceding implementation forms of the first aspect or the first aspect as such, all scent modules of the system are visually identical when in a scent dispensing position when a user smells a scent from a scent dispenser. An advantage of this implementation form is that any bias in matching and/or identifying scent module pairs based on visual perception is eliminated or significantly reduced.

In a fourth implementation form of a system according to any of the preceding implementation forms of the first aspect or the first aspect as such, the first pattern is provided on an opposite side of the first scent module in relation to the first scent dispenser and the second pattern is provided on an opposite side of the second scent module in relation to the second scent dispenser.

An advantage of this implementation form is that it makes it easier for the user to orient the scent module alternatively in a scent dispensing position where the pattern is not visible or a scent identification position where the first pattern and the second pattern are visible. Yet an advantage is that any bias in matching and/or identifying scent module pairs based on visual perception is further reduced.

According to a second aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objectives are achieved with a method for a scent identification system, the method comprising obtaining a scent module pair from a plurality of scent module pairs, each scent module pair comprising a first scent module dispensing a first scent and a second scent module dispensing a second scent, based on a user smelling the first scent and the second scent when a first pattern and a second pattern are not visible, and identifying if the first scent is matching the second scent by determining that if first pattern matches the second pattern.

Advantages of the second aspect are the same as those for the corresponding device claims according to the first aspect.

In a first implementation form of a method according to the second aspect, the method further comprising moving the first scent module and the second scent module from a scent dispensing position where the first pattern and the second pattern are not visible to a scent identification position where the first pattern and the second pattern are visible. In an embodiment of the first implementation form, moving the first scent module and the second scent module further comprises placing a first edge of a first label surface abut and aligned to a second edge of a second label surface.

An advantage with this implementation form is that it is clear to the user or any other person monitoring the procedure which scent module pair have been obtained from the plurality of scent module pairs. Yet an advantage of this implementation form is that the complexity of comparing and matching the first pattern and the second pattern is reduced as the physical distance between the first pattern and the second pattern is reduced.

In a second implementation form of a method according to the first implementation form of the second aspect or the second aspect as such, the method further comprising incrementing an accumulated identification attempt value by one and further performing one of removing the first scent module and the second scent module from the plurality of scent module pairs if the first label is matching the second label, or returning the first scent module and the second scent module to the plurality of scent module pairs in the scent dispensing positions if the first label is not matching the second label.

An advantage of this implementation form is that the progress of the identification process can be tracked instantly. Yet an advantage is that a scent module pair identification rate may be estimated by the user by monitoring the accumulated identification attempt value, the number of removed scent module pairs and the remaining plurality of scent module pairs.

In a third implementation form of a method according to the second implementation form of the second aspect the method further comprising repeating the previous method steps until all scent module pairs of the plurality of scent module pairs have been removed.

An advantage of this implementation form is that a repeatable test is achieved, thus enabling comparison of the accumulated identification attempt value with historic accumulated identification attempt values.

In a fourth implementation form of a method according to the third implementation form of the second aspect the method further comprising determining a scent module pair identification rate based on a total amount of scent module pairs comprised by the plurality of scent module pairs and the accumulated identification attempt value.

An advantage of this implementation form is that an absolute measure of the ability to identify scents is achieved. Yet an advantage of this implementation form is that a trend measure of the ability to identify scents is enabled by comparing the measure of the ability to identify scents with historic measures of the ability to identify scents.

The present invention also relates to a computer device. Further, the present invention also relates to a computer program, characterized in code means, which when run by processing means causes said processing means to execute any method according to the present invention. Further, the invention also relates to a computer program product comprising a computer readable medium and said mentioned computer program, wherein said computer program is included in the computer readable medium, and comprises of one or more from the group: ROM (Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable ROM), EPROM (Erasable PROM), Flash memory, EEPROM (Electrically EPROM) and hard disk drive.

Further applications and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The appended drawings are intended to clarify and explain different embodiments of the present invention, in which:

Fig. 1 shows a scent identification system, in accordance with embodiments of the invention. Fig. 2 shows a first and a second pattern comprising a first and second pattern, in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 3 shows a first and a second label arranged adjacent to a first and second edge, in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 4A shows a module pair without side walls, in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 4B shows a module pair with a single side wall, in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 4C shows a module pair with four side walls, in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 5 shows a method for a scent identification system, in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 shows a scent identification system (100), in accordance with a first aspect of the invention. The scent identification system (100) may comprise a plurality of scent module pairs (131-133), each scent module pair comprising a first scent module (110) and a second scent module (120). The scent modules may have any suitable shape, such as a receptacle, a container or a card preferably suitable for resting in or assuming at least two positions such as a scent dispensing position and a scent identification position. The size of the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) may be adapted to a test subject or user's skill level or ability, preferably in the range of 2-50 of scent module pairs. The first scent module (110) may further comprise a first label surface (105) with a first pattern (107) and a first scent dispenser (106) configured to contain and dispense a first scent, wherein the first scent module (1 10) is structured such that the first pattern (107) is not visible when a user smells said first scent. The first label surface (105) may be made from any material of suitable rigidity and/or structure, such as metal, plastic, textile or paper. The first pattern may be made out of color/ink printed directly on the first label surface (105), color/ink printed on an adhesive label attached to the first label surface (105) or embossed on the first label surface (105). The first scent dispenser (106) may be configured to contain the first scent by containing a substance that emits the first scent. The first scent dispenser (106) may be configured dispense a first scent by allowing access of the substance to the surrounding atmosphere, thereby emitting the first scent. The substance may be any suitable scent source such as be fragrance oils, esters or plant/animal parts or extracts such as tea leaves. The second scent module (120) may comprise a second label surface (1 15) with a second pattern (1 17) and a second scent dispenser (1 16) configured to contain and dispense a second scent. The second scent module (120) may be structured such that the second pattern (1 17) is not visible when the user smells the second scent. The second scent module (120) may be arranged/configured/structured or constructed in the same or in a similar manner to the first scent module (1 10), as previously described. In a scent module pair, the first pattern (107) will match the second pattern (1 17) and the first scent will match the second scent. The first pattern (107) matching the second pattern (1 17) may comprise the same symbols, have an identical visual structure or in any otherwise appearing visually identical to a user. The first pattern (107) matching the second pattern (1 17) will be a unique pattern amongst the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133).

In an embodiment, the scent identification system (100) further comprises a computer device, as further described below in relation to the method. The computer device further comprises at least processor/processing means and one memory or data storage configured to store data values, parameters or computer code, which when run by processing means of the computer device causes the processing means to execute any method according to the present invention.

In one or more embodiments the computer device further comprises one or more input devices, configured to receive input or indications from a user and send a user-input signal indicative of the user input or indications to the processor. Alternatively or additionally, the one or more input devices may comprise may comprise a scent dispenser 106, 116 configured to contain and dispense one or more scents in response to a control signal received from the processing means. The control signal is typically indicative of the first and/or second pattern 107, 117. In an embodiment, the scent identification system (100) comprises a first input device configured to receive input indicative of the user manipulating the first scent module 1 10 and to dispense a first scent in in response to a control signal received from the processing means. In an embodiment, the scent identification system 100 comprises a second input device configured to receive input indicative of the user manipulating the second scent module 120 and to dispense a second scent in in response to a control signal received from the processing means. In an embodiment, the scent identification system 100 comprises the first input device configured to receive input indicative of the user manipulating the first scent module 1 10 and/or the second scent module 120 and to dispense a first scent and/or a second scent in response to a control signal received from the processing means.

Examples of such input devices are tracked motion controllers, trackers using gyro tracking or camera tracking, data gloves, haptic data gloves, voice recognition units or video tracking units such as Kinect. In one example, by providing the scent module pairs 131-133 with markers or stickers their movement may be tracked by a camera and translated into three dimensional, 3D, coordinates.

In one or more embodiments the computer device further comprises a display configured to receive a display signal indicative of rendered objects, such as text or graphical user input objects, from the processor and to display the received signal as objects, such as text or graphical user input objects. Examples of such displays may be computer screens or virtual reality, VR, goggles. In a further example, the scent modules of the scent module pairs 131- 133 are simulated, animated and/or rendered by the processor on the display, e.g. in VR goggles, and manipulated using the one or more input devices. Optionally, the one or more input devices may provide haptic feedback, e.g. haptic gloves providing the user with the feeling of holding a scent module of the scent module pairs 131-133.

The first scent module 1 10 may further be rendered as having a first label surface 105 with a first pattern 107. The second scent module 120 may be rendered as having a second label surface 1 15 with a second pattern 1 17. The first scent module 1 10 may be rendered in in the scent dispensing position such that the first pattern 107 is not visible. In a similar manner, the second scent module 120 may be rendered in the scent dispensing position such that the second pattern 1 17 is not visible when a user smells said second scent from said first or second scent dispenser 106, 1 16. The first pattern may be rendered as having contrast with respect to the first label surface 105. The second scent module 120 may be rendered and/or arranged and/or configured and/or structured and/or constructed in the same or in a similar manner to the first scent module 110, as previously described. The scent dispenser 106, 1 16 may be configured to dispense the first scent by containing a substance that emits the first and/ or second scent. Alternatively or additionally, the scent dispenser 106, 116 may be configured to dispense one scent from one of a plurality of containers, each container comprising a scent, based on a control signal received from the processing means. A scent dispenser 106, 116 may be configured to dispense a scent by allowing access of the substance to the surrounding atmosphere, thereby emitting the scent, in response to the control signal. In one example, this is achieved by activating a pump, such as a piezoelectric pump. The substance may be any suitable scent source such as be fragrance oils, esters or plant/animal parts or extracts such as tea leaves.

In one example, the scent dispensers 106, 116 constitute a scent dispenser unit , such as an olfactometer. This may be a portable mechanical contraption that receives as input a control signal, e.g. indicating the scent module patterns 107, 1 17 and releases scents via the first and/or second scent dispensers 106, 1 16 accoding to the control signal indicative of the scent pattern 107, 117 input. The scent dispenser unit may comprise an tubular chamber, a set of scent dispensers or a plurality of containers and a fan. Multiple scent dispensers may be attached to the outside of the chamber, which contains holes that fit the scent dispensers, such that the scents are dispensed by the dispensers into the chamber. The scents may be dispensed using pizo-electric membranes which, when activated by the control signal and/or an electric current and attached to a scented fluid, release a mist on the other side of the membrane and into the chamber. The scent dispenser unit contains a fan at the base of the chamber, ensuring constant air flow through the chamber such that the scents are delivered at the outlet. Thus, scent matching is enabled by the software code, and concealed to the user. Using a computer interface, such as the input device, the user submits an assessment whether the scents are matching or not, and this decision is verified or falsified by means of integrating the user statement with a comparison of the patterns, i.e. a digital matching code.

A scent module pair may be determined as matching, if the first pattern 107 match the second pattern 1 17 and the first scent match the second scent. In other words, the first pattern 107 will be rendered to match the second pattern 117. In an embodiment, the first scent dispenser 106 will be controlled to dispense same scent as the second scent dispenser 116 is controlled to dispense. In a second scenario the first scent dispenser 106 will be controlled to dispense the same scent subsequently when the user smells the first scent module 110 and then the second scent module 120, effectively dispensing the first and the second scent subsequently. The first pattern 107 matching the second pattern 1 17 may comprise and/or be rendered as having the same symbols, have an identical visual structure or in any otherwise appearing visually identical to a user watching the display or wearing the VR goggles. The first pattern 107 matching the second pattern 1 17 will be a unique pattern amongst the plurality of scent module pairs 131 -133.

Fig. 2 shows a first and a second pattern (107, 1 17) comprising a plurality of markings (201 - 203, 21 1 -213), in accordance with embodiments of the invention. In an embodiment, the first pattern (107) may comprise a first plurality of markings (201 -203) and/or the second pattern (1 17) may comprise a second plurality of markings (21 1 -213).

In an embodiment, the first pattern 107 may be rendered as having the first plurality of markings 201 -203 and/or the second pattern 1 17 may be rendered as having a second plurality of markings 21 1 -213.

In a scent module pair the first plurality of markings (107) matches the second plurality of markings (1 17). In an example matching comprises plurality of markings (107) having the same number, the same symbols and in the same order as the second plurality of markings (1 17). The first and/or the second plurality of markings are not associated to the origin of the first and/or second scent. I.e. if the first scent originate from or represent the scent of an apple, the first pattern must not in any way associate to or indicate an apple to avoid that the users visual perception influence or overrule the scent perception. The plurality of markings may comprise any combination of lines, geometrical objects or alphanumerical symbols that are not associated to the origin of the first and/or second scent. The plurality of markings (201 -203, 21 1 -213) may be selected such that the number of possible unique combinatorial combinations of the plurality of markings (201 -203, 21 1 -213) exceed the number of scent module pairs (131 -133) by a factor, e.g. 5, 10, 100, 1000 or any suitable factor in the interval of [2 - ^oo] selected depending on the user's skills in memorizing patterns. The first plurality of markings (201 -203) and the second plurality of markings (21 1 -213) may be binary markings indicating a value of zero (0) or one (1 ), e.g. black/white symbols, filled/outlined symbols, present/non-present symbols at predefined positions or computer readable symbols such as a bar code.

When a user is trying to determine that the first pattern (107) matches the second pattern

(1 17), the user may find this task difficult if the physical distance separating them is too big, e.g. when the patterns are located in the center of the label surface. It may also be difficult to identify the correct rotational orientation of the two patterns that will allow them to be compared. The present invention solves this by displacing the pattern to at least one edge of the label surface.

Fig. 3 shows a first (107) and a second (1 17) label arranged adjacent to a first (310) and second edge (320) respectively, in accordance with embodiments of the invention. In an embodiment, the first label surface (105) may further comprise at least one first edge (310) and the second label surface (115) may further comprise at least one second edge (320). The first pattern (107) may further be arranged adjacent to a first edge (310) of the first label surface (105) and the second pattern (1 17) may further be arranged adjacent to a second edge (320) of the second label surface (1 15).

In an embodiment, the first label surface 105 may further may be rendered as having at least one first edge (310) and the second label surface (1 15) may further may be rendered as having at least one second edge (320). The first pattern (107) may further be rendered adjacent to a first edge (310) of the first label surface (105) and the second pattern (1 17) may further be rendered adjacent to a second edge (320) of the second label surface (1 15).

In one example, the first/second label surface (105, 1 15) has a circular shape and comprises a single outline/edge. In yet an example, the first/second label surface has a triangular shape and comprises three outlines/edges. In yet an example, the first/second label surface has a square or rectangular shape and comprises four outlines/edges. The first pattern (107) may further be arranged adjacent to the at least one first edge (310) out of the four edges of the first label surface (105) and the second pattern (117) may further arranged adjacent to the at least one second edge (320) out of the four edges of the second label surface (1 15). In one example, first label surface (105) has a circular shape and the first pattern (107) is arranged with its outer edge a few millimeters, e.g. 1 - 5 mm, inside and parallel to the first edge (310). In yet an example, first label surface (105) has a rectangular shape and the first pattern (107) is arranged with its outer edge a few millimeters inside and parallel to the first edge (310) out of the four edges. The first pattern (107) may further be arranged to be mirrored in relation to the second pattern (117) such that the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17) match when a first edge (310) of the first label surface (105) is placed abut and aligned to a second edge (320) of the second label surface (1 15). Fig. 1. Shows an example on how a first edge of the first label surface is placed abut and aligned to a second edge. The first pattern (107) may further be mirrored in relation to the second pattern (117) around a center axis (330) of the first label surface (105). The center axis may be arranged to intersect the first edge (310), such that two segments of equal length is formed, and a center point of the label surface. In an embodiment, the first pattern 107 may further be rendered a being mirrored in relation to the rendering of the second pattern 1 17 such that the first pattern 107 and the second pattern 1 17 match when a first edge 310 of the first label surface 105 is placed abut and aligned to a second edge 320 of the second label surface 1 15.

Fig. 4A shows a module pair without side walls, in accordance with embodiments of the invention. In one example, the label surface of a scent module is formed as a card. In one further example, the label surface of a scent module is rendered as being formed as a card.

Fig. 4B shows a module pair with a single side wall, in accordance with embodiments of the invention. In yet an embodiment, the scent modules comprised in the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) are further configured with a side wall for each label surface edge, where each side wall edge is attached to the respective label surface edge. The side wall/s may further be attached to each other, thus forming a receptacle or container. In one example, the single side wall is attached at one edge to the label surface edge and a second and third edge is attached to each other to form a cylinder shaped receptacle.

In yet an embodiment, the scent modules comprised in the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) are further rendered with a side wall for each label surface edge, where each side wall edge is rendered to be attached to the respective label surface edge. The side wall/s may further be attached to each other, thus forming a receptacle or container.

Fig. 4C shows a module pair with four side walls, in accordance with embodiments of the invention. In one example, the label surface is square shaped with four side walls, each side wall's first edge attached to at least one label surface edge and a second and a third side wall edge attached to adjacent side walls such that a box shaped receptacle or container is formed.

In an embodiment of the system (100), all scent modules comprised in the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) of the system (100) are visually identical when in a scent dispensing position, e.g. when a user smells a scent from a scent dispenser. In an example, label surfaces are of equal color, size and shape, thereby appearing visually identical to a user about to smell scents from scent dispensers of a scent module pair obtained from the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133). In one example, the first label surface (105) has a rectangular shape and four attached side walls forming a box shaped receptacle or container. When the scent modules are placed on a supporting surface, such as a table top, in a scent dispensing position with the label surfaces facing the supporting surface, they will appear as visually identical scent modules/ receptacles to a user. Optionally in yet an embodiment, the scent modules comprised in the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) are further configured with a removable lid arranged on an opposite side of the side walls in relation to the label surface. An advantage of having a lid is that it stops the first/second scent from being dispensed, e.g. during storage or transportation.

In an embodiment of the system 100, all scent modules comprised in the plurality of scent module pairs 131-133 of the system 100 are rendered as being visually identical when rendered in a scent dispensing position, e.g. when a user smells a scent from a scent dispenser. Optionally in yet an embodiment, the scent modules comprised in the plurality of scent module pairs 131-133 are further rendered as having a removable lid arranged on an opposite side of the side walls in relation to the label surface. An advantage of having a lid is that it stops the first/second scent from being dispensed.

In an embodiment of the system (100), the first pattern (107) is provided on an opposite side of the first scent module (110) in relation to the first scent dispenser (106) and the second pattern (1 17) is provided on an opposite side of the second scent module (120) in relation to the second scent dispenser (1 16). In one example, the label surfaces of the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) are formed as a card with a first and a second side. The scent dispenser is arranged on the first side and the pattern is provided on the second opposite side of the scent module in relation to the scent dispenser. In yet an example, the label surfaces of the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) are formed as a bottom of a receptacle, the bottom having an internal and an external side. The scent dispenser is arranged on or adjacent to the internal side within the receptacle and the pattern is provided on the external opposite side of the scent module in relation to the scent dispenser, i.e. on the exterior surface of the bottom part of the receptacle.

In an embodiment of the system 100, the first pattern 107 is rendered to be provided on an opposite side of the first scent module 1 10 in relation to the first scent dispenser 106 and the second pattern 117 is rendered to be provided on an opposite side of the second scent module 120 in relation to the second scent dispenser 1 16.

According to a second aspect of the invention, the above mentioned and other objectives are achieved with a method for a scent identification system.

Fig. 5 shows a method (400) for a scent identification system (100), in accordance to embodiments of the invention. The method comprises obtaining (410) a scent module pair from a plurality of scent module pairs (131-133). Each scent module pair may comprise a first scent module (1 10) dispensing a first scent and a second scent module (120) dispensing a second scent. The method (400) may further comprise identifying (430) if the first scent is matching the second scent by determining if the first pattern (107) matches the second pattern (117). In embodiments, the method further comprises detecting (420) the first scent and the second scent when a first pattern (107) provided at the first scent module and a second pattern (117) provided at the second scent module are not visible, e.g. detecting the first scent and the second scent by a user smelling the first scent and the second scent when neither of the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17) are visible.

In an example, the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) are formed as box-shaped receptacles all being placed in a scent dispensing position, where the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17) are not visible, as a first group on a supporting surface, such as table top. The plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) are, when in the scent dispensing position, appearing visually identical to a user regarding/monitoring the scent module pairs. The user may typically select a first scent module (1 10) at random from the plurality of scent module pairs and smell the dispensed first scent. The user then repeatedly selects candidate second scent modules and smells the dispensed scent of each candidate second scent module until the user determines that he has obtained (410) a scent module pair. If the scent module pair is matching, the user identifies (430) if the first scent is matching the second scent by determining if the first pattern matches the second pattern, e.g. by determining that the first pattern, e.g. "X Y Z" matches the second pattern "X Y Z".

In an example, the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) are rendered as box-shaped receptacles all being rendered as being placed in a scent dispensing position, where the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17) are not visible, as a first group on a supporting surface, such as table top. The plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) are, when in the scent dispensing position, being rendered to appear visually identical to a user regarding/monitoring the scent module pairs, e.g. via the VR goggles. The user may typically select a first scent module (1 10) at random from the plurality of scent module pairs, e.g. using the first input device, and smell the dispensed first scent. The user then repeatedly selects candidate second scent modules and smells the dispensed scent of each candidate second scent module until the user determines that he has obtained (410) a scent module pair. If the scent module pair is matching, the user identifies (430) if the first scent is matching the second scent by determining if the first pattern matches the second pattern, e.g. by indicating via the first and/or second input device that the first pattern, e.g. "X Y Z" matches the second pattern "X Y Z". In an embodiment, wherein the identifying step (420) further comprises moving (415) the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) from a scent dispensing position where the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17) are not visible to a scent identification position where the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17) are visible. In an example, this may involve lifting up the first scent module and the second scent module, flip or rotate them such that an opposite side of the scent module, in relation to the scent dispenser (106, 1 16), is visible and thereby making the pattern visible. Moving the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) may further comprise placing a first edge (310) of a first label surface (105) abut and aligned to a second edge (320) of a second label surface (1 15). In yet an example this may comprise aligning the first edge (310) with the second edge (320).

In a further example, this may involve using the first input device to lift up the first scent module and using the second input device to lift up the second scent module, flip or rotate them such that an opposite side of the scent module, in relation to the scent dispenser 106, 116, is visible in the display and thereby making the pattern visible. Moving or manipulating the first scent module 1 10 and the second scent module 120 may further comprise rendering the placement of a first edge 310 of a first label surface 105 abut and aligned to a second edge 32) of a second label surface 115. In yet an example this may comprise rendering aligning the alignment of the first edge 310 with the second edge 320.

For a user and any audience observing the testing and/or identification process it may be relevant to instantly track the progress of the identification process. The present invention therefore provides an embodiment where an accumulated identification attempt value is recorded and matched and unmatched scent module pairs are physically grouped in two separated groups.

In an embodiment, the processing means may be configured to record the accumulated identification attempt value. In an embodiment, the processing means may be further configured to rendered matched and unmatched scent module pairs in two separated groups, e.g. by rendering them as spacially arranged in groups.

In embodiments, the method further comprises incrementing (440) an accumulated identification attempt value by one and further performing one of removing (450) the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) from the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) if the first label (107) is matching the second label (1 17), or returning (451) the first scent module (110) and the second scent module (120) to the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) in the scent dispensing position if the first label (107) is not matching the second label (1 17).

In an embodiments, the method further comprises incrementing 440 an accumulated identification attempt value by one and further performing one of rendering removal 450 of the first scent module 1 10 and the second scent module 120 from the plurality of rendered scent module pairs 131-133 if the first label 107 is determined to match the second label 117, or rendering the return 451 of the first scent module 1 10 and the second scent module 120 to the plurality of rendered scent module pairs 131-133 rendered as being in the scent dispensing position if the first label 107 is not matching the second label 117.

In yet an embodiment, the method (400) further comprises repeating the previous method steps until all scent module pairs of the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) have been removed (450). In an embodiment, removing (450) comprises repositioning the obtained (410) scent module pair from a first group comprising the plurality of unmatched scent module pairs (131-133) to a second group comprising matched scent module pairs. In an example, repositioning may comprise moving the obtained (410) scent module pair from a first group located in one side of the supporting surface to a second group located on an opposite side of the supporting surface.

In an embodiment, the step of removing 450 comprises rendering the repositioning the obtained 410 scent module pair from a first group comprising the plurality of unmatched scent module pairs 131-133 to a second group comprising matched scent module pairs. In an example, repositioning may comprise rendering the move of the obtained 410 scent module pair from a first group rendered as being located in one side of the supporting surface to a second group located on an opposite side of the supporting surface.

In yet an embodiment, the method (400) further comprises determining a scent module pair identification rate based on a total amount of scent module pairs comprised by the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) and the accumulated identification attempt value. In an example, 20 scent module pairs are initially comprised in the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) and arranged as a first group. After 40 attempts, all module pairs have been correctly identified by the user. The scent module pair identification rate can then be determined as 20/40 = 0.5 or as 100 * 20/40 = 50%. In an embodiment, the accumulated identification attempt values and/or the scent module pair identification rate are recorded at each occasion the method is performed as historic accumulated identification attempt values and/or historic scent module pair identification rates. The method (400) may further comprise determining a trend measure of the user's ability to identify scents based on the historic accumulated identification attempt values and/or the historic scent module pair identification rates. E.g. if a test is run every week by a user, a trend measure of the historic results may be generated. The trend measure may e.g. show improved or reduced ability to identify scents, as would be understood by the skilled person.

In yet an embodiment, the method is performed by a computer device. E.g. in the form of a computing device, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, a handheld computer, a wrist-worn computer, a smart watch, a PDA, a Smartphone, a smart TV, a telephone, a media player, a game console, a vehicle mounted computer system or a navigation device. In embodiments, the computer device comprises a processor/processing unit, which is provided with specifically designed programming or program code portions adapted to control the processing unit to perform the steps and functions of one or more embodiments of the method and/or methods described herein. The computer device further comprises at least one memory or data storage configured to store data values or parameters received as a write signal from the processor or to retrieve and send data values and/or parameters as a read signal to the processor. The node further comprises a communications interface, which is configured to send or receive data values or parameters as a signal to or from the processor to or from other external nodes. In one or more embodiments the computer device further comprises an input device, configured to receive input or indications from a user and send a user-input signal indicative of the user input or indications to the processor. In one or more embodiments the computer device further comprises a display configured to receive a display signal indicative of rendered objects, such as text or graphical user input objects, from the processor and to display the received signal as objects, such as text or graphical user input objects. In one embodiment the display is integrated with the user input device and configured to receive a display signal indicative of rendered objects, such as text or graphical user input objects, from the processor and to display the received signal as objects, such as text or graphical user input objects, and/or configured to receive input or indications from a user and send a user-input signal indicative of the user input or indications to the processor. In embodiments, the processor is communicatively coupled to the memory and/or the communications interface and/or the input device and/or the display. In embodiments, the communications interface communicates using wired or wireless communication techniques.

In embodiments, the one or more memories may comprise a selection of a hard RAM, disk drive, a floppy disk drive, a magnetic tape drive, an optical disk drive, a CD or DVD drive (R or RW), or other removable or fixed media drive.

The computer device may further comprise an actuator, such as a robotic arm, configured to receive a control signal from the processor and in response to the control signal manipulate one or more scent module pairs from the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133). The computer device may further comprise an optical scanner and/or camera configured to scan the first and/or second pattern of a scent module pair and send a scan signal indicative of a first pattern (107) and a second pattern (1 17) to the processor. The computer device may further comprise sensor configured to detect the first and/or second scent and send a detection signal indicative of a first pattern (107) and a second pattern (1 17) to the processor. The input device may be configured to receive user input, e.g. indicating a first and/or a second scent module. The input device may be further configured to receive user input indicating that a scent module pair has been obtained. The input device may further be configured to send an input signal indicative of user input to the processor.

In an embodiment, a method for a computer device is provided that comprises obtaining (410), by an actuator, a scent module pair from a plurality of scent module pairs (131-133), based on a input signal resulting from input or indications from a user, scanning, by a scanner and/or camera, the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17), and identifying (430), by a processor, if the first scent is matching the second scent by determining that if first pattern (107) matches the second pattern (1 17) based on the scan signal.

In embodiments, the method further comprises detecting (420) the first scent and the second scent when a first pattern (107) provided at the first scent module and a second pattern (1 17) provided at the second scent module are not visible, e.g. detecting the first scent and the second scent by a sensor or detecting the first scent and the second scent by a user smelling the first scent and the second scent, wherein neither of the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (117) are visible. In an embodiment, the method may further comprise moving, by the actuator in response to a control signal generated by the processor, the first scent module

(1 10) and the second scent module (120) to the sensor or moving, by the actuator in response to a control signal generated by the processor, the sensor to the first scent module

(1 10) and the second scent module (120). In an embodiment, wherein the identifying step

(420) further comprises moving (415), by the actuator in response to a control signal generated by the processor, the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) from a scent dispensing position, where the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (117) are not visible to the scanner and/or camera, to a scent identification position, where the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17) are visible to the scanner and/or camera. In embodiments, the method further comprises incrementing (440), by the processor, an accumulated identification attempt value, stored as a parameter in memory, by one and further performing one of removing (450), by the actuator in response to a control signal generated by the processor, the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) from the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) if the first label (107) is matching the second label (1 17), or returning (451), by the actuator, the first scent module (110) and the second scent module (120) to the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) in the scent dispensing position if the first label (107) is not matching the second label (1 17). In yet an embodiment, the method (400) further comprises repeating, by computer device, the previous method steps until all scent module pairs of the plurality of scent module pairs (131 - 133) have been removed (450) by the actuator. In an example, removing (450), by the actuator, comprises placing the plurality of unmatched scent module pairs (131-133) in a first group and placing matched scent module pairs in a second group. In yet an embodiment, the method (400) further comprises determining, by the processor, a scent module pair identification rate based on a total amount of scent module pairs comprised by the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) and the accumulated identification attempt value. In an embodiment, the accumulated identification attempt values and/or the scent module pair identification rate are stored in memory by the processor at each occasion the method is performed as historic accumulated identification attempt values and/or historic scent module pair identification rates with respective associated time stamps. The method (400) may further comprise determining a trend measure, by the processor, of the user's ability to identify scents based on the stored historic accumulated identification attempt values and/or the stored historic scent module pair identification rates with respective associated time stamps. E.g. if a test is run every week on a user by the processor, a trend measure of the historic results may be generated by the processor. The trend measure may show improved or reduced ability to identify scents, as would be understood by the skilled person. In one or more embodiments the input device is configured to receive user input or indications from a user indicating an obtained scent module pair or a candidate scent module, e.g. a mouse click on a coordinate associated to a center pixel coordinate on the display. In one or more embodiments the input device 117, is further configured to send the user-input signal indicating a scent module pair to the processor 1 12. In an embodiment, the method further comprises displaying, by the display, the accumulated identification attempt values and/or the scent module pair identification rate and/or the historic accumulated identification attempt values and/or the historic scent module pair identification rates and/or the respective associated time stamps and/or the trend measure. In an embodiment, a method for a computer device is provided that comprises obtaining (410) a scent module pair from a plurality of scent module pairs (131-133), based on a input signal resulting from input or indications from a user, obtaining the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17), and identifying (430), by the processor, if the first scent is matching the second scent by determining if the first pattern (107) matches the second pattern (117) based on the obtained first pattern 107 and the obtained second pattern (1 17).

In embodiments, the method further comprises detecting (420) the first scent and the second scent when a first pattern (107) being provided at the first scent module and a second pattern (1 17) being provided at the second scent module are not rendered as being visible, e.g. detecting the first scent and the second scent by a user smelling the first scent and the second scent, wherein neither of the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17) are rendered as being visible.

In an embodiment, the method may further comprise moving, by the user using the first input device and/or the second input device, the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) to smell the scents.

In an embodiment, the identifying step (430) further comprises moving (415), by the user, the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) from a rendered scent dispensing position, where the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (117) are not rendered as visible on the display to a rendered scent identification position, where the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17) are rendered as being visible on the display. In embodiments, the method further comprises incrementing (440), by the processor, an accumulated identification attempt value, stored as a parameter in memory, by one and further performing one of removing (450) the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) from the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) if the first label (107) is matching the second label (1 17), or returning (451) the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) to the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) in the scent dispensing position if the first label (107) is not matching the second label (1 17). In yet an embodiment, the method (400) further comprises repeating, by computer device, the previous method steps until all scent module pairs of the plurality of scent module pairs (131 -

133) have been removed (450). In an example, removing (450) comprises rendering the plurality of unmatched scent module pairs (131-133) as being placed in a first group and rendering the matched scent module pairs as being placed in a second group. In yet an embodiment, the method (400) further comprises determining, by the processor, a scent module pair identification rate based on a total amount of scent module pairs comprised by the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) and the accumulated identification attempt value. In an embodiment, the accumulated identification attempt values and/or the scent module pair identification rate are stored in memory by the processor at each occasion the method is performed as historic accumulated identification attempt values and/or historic scent module pair identification rates with respective associated time stamps. The method (400) may further comprise determining a trend measure, by the processor, of the user's ability to identify scents based on the stored historic accumulated identification attempt values and/or the stored historic scent module pair identification rates with respective associated time stamps. E.g. if a test is run every week on a user by the processor, a trend measure of the historic results may be generated by the processor. The trend measure may show improved or reduced ability to identify scents, as would be understood by the skilled person. In one or more embodiments the input device is configured to receive user input or indications from a user indicating an obtained scent module pair or a candidate scent module, e.g. a button click on the input device. In one or more embodiments the input device 1 17, is further configured to send the user-input signal indicating a scent module pair to the processor 112. In an embodiment, the method further comprises displaying, by the display, the accumulated identification attempt values and/or the scent module pair identification rate and/or the historic accumulated identification attempt values and/or the historic scent module pair identification rates and/or the respective associated time stamps and/or the trend measure.

The present invention also relates to a computer program, characterized in code means, which when run by processing means causes said processing means to execute any method according to the present invention. Further, the invention also relates to a computer program product comprising a computer readable medium and said mentioned computer program, wherein said computer program is included in the computer readable medium, and comprises of one or more from the group: ROM (Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable ROM), EPROM (Erasable PROM), Flash memory, EEPROM (Electrically EPROM) and hard disk drive.

Finally, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, but also relates to and incorporates all embodiments within the scope of the appended independent claims.

Claims

1. A scent identification system (100), comprising:

a plurality of scent module pairs (131-133), each scent module pair comprising a first scent module (1 10) and a second scent module (120), the first scent module (1 10) comprising a first label surface (105) with a first pattern (107) and a first scent dispenser (106) configured to contain and dispense a first scent, wherein the first scent module (1 10) is structured such that the first pattern (107) is not visible when a user smells said first scent, the second scent module (120) comprising a second label surface (1 15) with a second pattern (117) and a second scent dispenser (1 16) configured to contain and dispense a second scent, wherein the second scent module (120) is structured such that the second pattern (117) is not visible when the user smells the second scent, wherein in a scent module pair, the first pattern (107) matches the second pattern (117) and wherein the first scent matches the second scent.

2. The scent identification system (100) of claim 1 , wherein the first pattern (107) comprises a first plurality of markings (201-203) and the second pattern (1 17) comprises a second plurality of markings (211-213), wherein the first plurality of markings (201-203) matches the second plurality of markings (21 1-213).

3. The scent identification system (100) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first pattern (107) is further arranged adjacent to a first edge (310) of the first label surface (105) and the second pattern (1 17) is further arranged adjacent to a second edge (320) of the second label surface (115), wherein the first pattern (107) is mirrored in relation to the second pattern (117) such that the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17) match when a first edge (310) of the first label surface (105) is placed abut and aligned to a second edge (320) of the second label surface (1 15).

4. The scent identification system (100) of any preceding claim, wherein all scent modules of the system are visually identical when in a scent dispensing position when a user smells a scent from a scent dispenser.

5. The scent identification system (100) of any preceding claim, wherein the first pattern (107) is provided on an opposite side of the first scent module (1 10) in relation to the first scent dispenser (106) and the second pattern (1 17) is provided on an opposite side of the second scent module (120) in relation to the second scent dispenser (1 16)

6. A method (400) for a scent identification system (100), the method comprising:

- obtaining (410) a scent module pair from a plurality of scent module pairs (131-133), each scent module pair comprising a first scent module (110) dispensing a first scent and a second scent module (120) dispensing a second scent,

- smelling the first scent and the second scent when a first pattern (107) provided at the first scent module and a second pattern (1 17) provided at the second scent module are not visible, and

- identifying (430) if the first scent is matching the second scent by determining if the first pattern (107) matches the second pattern (1 17).

7. The method (400) of claim 6, wherein the identifying step (430) further comprising moving (415) the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) from a scent dispensing position where the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (117) are not visible to a scent identification position where the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (117) are visible.

8. The method (400) of any of claims 6 and 7, further comprising incrementing (440) an accumulated identification attempt value by one and further performing one of:

- removing (450) the first scent module (110) and the second scent module (120) from the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) if the first label (107) is matching the second label (117), or

- returning (451) the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) to the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) in the scent dispensing position if the first label (107) is not matching the second label (1 17).

9. The method (400) of claim 8, further comprising repeating the previous method steps until all scent module pairs of the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) have been removed (450).

10. The method (400) of claim 9, further comprising determining a scent module pair identification rate based on a total amount of scent module pairs comprised by the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) and the accumulated identification attempt value.

1 1. A method for a computer device is provided, the method comprising

- obtaining (410) a scent module pair from a plurality of scent module pairs (131-133), based on a input signal resulting from input or indications from a user, - obtaining a first pattern (107) associated to a first scent module of a scent module pair and obtaining a second pattern (1 17) associated to a second scent module of the scent module pair,

- identifying (430), by the processor, if a first scent is matching a second scent by determining if the first pattern (107) matches the second pattern (1 17) based on the obtained first pattern 107 and the obtained second pattern (117).

12. The method according to claim 1 1 , wherin the step of identifying (430) further comprises detecting (420) the first scent and detecting the second scent when a first pattern (107) being provided at the first scent module and a second pattern (117) being provided at the second scent module are not rendered as being visible.

13. The mehod according to any of the preceeding claims, wherein the identifying step (430) further comprises rendering moving (415) the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) from a rendered scent dispensing position, where the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17) are not rendered as visible on the display to a rendered scent identification position, where the first pattern (107) and the second pattern (1 17) are rendered as being visible on the display.

14 The mehod according to any of the preceeding claims, further comprising incrementing (440), by the processor, an accumulated identification attempt value, stored as a parameter in memory, by one and further performing one of removing (450) the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) from the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) if the first label (107) is matching the second label (1 17), or returning (451) the first scent module (1 10) and the second scent module (120) to the plurality of scent module pairs (131-133) in the scent dispensing position if the first label (107) is not matching the second label (1 17).

15 A computer device for a scent identification system (100), the system comprising:

- a computer device, comprising at least processor/ processing means and one memory or data storage configured to store data values, parameters or computer code, which when run by processing means of the computer device causes the processing means to execute any method according to claims 6 - 11.

- one or more input devices, configured to receive input or indications from a user and send a user-input signal indicative of the user input or indications to the processor, wherein the one or more input devices compris a scent dispenser 106, 116 configured to contain and dispense one or more scents in response to a control signal received from the processor, - a display configured to receive a display signal indicative of rendered objects from the processor and to display the received signal as objects.

16. The computer device of claim 15, wherein the display is virtual reality, VR, goggles.