The olfactory system constantly deteriorates within the lifetime of a person. By the age of 60 most of the sense of smell is lost. That age group is also susceptible to a range of illnesses that often hamper their ability to take part in social life. Oftentimes, bad smell is a major reason for social isolation since it disintegrates confidence levels because the affected person can no longer smell themselves and insecurities arise. Technology might offer help in that regard and this report presents an approach to inconspicuously advice the user on bad odors occurring. The concept is based on a low-cost, low-power consuming, mobile solution and its realization is described in detail. First results indicate that it is a feasible way to detect trace gases associated with bad scents. Further interdisciplinary research will be necessary in order to take into account all aspects of the multidisciplinary problem addressed here.
