Design approach
As my research discovered a strong connection between smell and memory, I designed an olfactory interface for a better learning experience. My prototype is attachable to any pen to make it accessible to as many people as possible, what I believe is essential for a democratic design approach. The material was selected so that it can store scented oils, but can also release odours when rubbing. After long experiments with ceramics and firing stages, this was finally successful in a first ceramic prototype. The attachment for the pin is made of natural rubber and its elasticity allows it to be attached to different pin sizes.
Prototype olfactory interface | Material made of rubber, ceramics and scented oil
Background
Since I have always been interested in linking my pedagogical expertise and experience with design more closely, I have addressed the issue of learning. After studying several scientific publications, I discovered that our sense of smell is very strongly linked to our memory. After I found this first introduction to the subject, I went into school classes and interviewed children and observed how they learn and what they need to learn. I wanted to develop an interface that is as unobtrusive as possible and that fits well into the everyday life of the learners. Therefore I chose the combination of pen and olfactory interface, because it is always at hand and can be smelled. During the development phase I have been dealing with the nature of materials that can store scents well but also release them by touch. After several experiments, I came across ceramics that can absorb fragrance oils well, but also can eliminate them well due to their coarse grain size.
Prototype testing in the class room
Experimenting with material
In order to be able to enclose the scent on the one hand, but also to release it after an interaction with the material, I made several experiments with clay, glass, wood and artificial materials. I was also interested in the composition of liquids within fruits, so I analyzed different fruits with the help of a self-built food detector.
First clay prototype | Testing of material composition
Poster for an exhibition in Kiel
Prototype of a food detector for testing other properties of fruits
Design Solution
In the end, I decided on a rough ceramic that can absorb a scent oil, but also release the scent by friction. This I converted into a thin ceramic flake that can be attached to a pen with the help of a rubber attachment. The interaction with the object is very inconspicuous and fits perfectly into everyday life in the classroom.
