NOSEwrist: Natural Olfactory Substitution and Extension wrist

Abstract

In this paper, we present a wearable augmentation device that ultimately aims to substitute and extend olfactory sensation. The device utilizes gas sensors mounted on the wrist, combined with a trained machine learning model, to discriminate liquids such as water, alcohol, fluid accelerant, and vinegar. The device aims to be useful in cases where the sense of taste and smell are compromised, such sometimes occuring during a COVID-19 infection. The paper also discusses potential advancements for this technology to be utilized in a variety of ways, beyond just substituting a broken sense, and how it aligns with the vision of early HCI pioneer Douglas Engelbart, and the concept of Assistive Augmentation. The paper concludes that this technology, in combination with artificial intelligence, has the potential to enrich our physical experience and bring us closer to the idea of a "Cyber-Human" in the future.