9th February 2012 BSP/SCS joint lecture
Jenny Tillotson, Senior research fellow at Central Saint Martin’s college of Art and Design, gave an interesting talk at the Royal Society of Chemistry on 9th February exploring a multi-sensory step over the rainbow with a twist of wonder.
Using computerized scent-output systems worn on the body for fashion, wellbeing and health applications, technology would merge with fashion and natural fragrances using the therapeutic power of essential oils to reflect the colours of the rainbow, enhancing mood and improving lifestyle. The concept offers a fully personalized, controllable ‘scent bubble’ that is activated by the user alone from high-tech jewellery and clothing. These can be programmed to deliver a palette of fragrances, depending on emotion, mood, occasion and time of day, whilst complementing the audio/visual senses. If combined with biometric sensors that measure stress indicators, soothing scents could be released whenever the stress levels exceed a certain threshold. Similarly, refreshing and revitalising scents can be used to fight fatigue and boost self-esteem. Using colour in conjunction with therapeutic fragrances, gives the wearer a visual aid to alleviating their physiological and emotional state. State of the art technology, 21st century design features and the healing powers of nature combine to produce a fundamentally simple concept of creating a positive personal space on this highly charged 21st century planet we all share.
Tim Gage