Virtual Scent: Finding Locations of Interest in Ambient Intelligence Environments

In this paper, we propose a novel method to map locations of interest by utilizing the "scent" model. Location-aware services are being actively developed as they are a key component in realizing the Ambient Intelligence (AmI) world. Our proposal provides the basics needed to create location-aware services including navigation and notification. Users\´ interests are loosely shared by mirroring the diffusion of a real scent, and the users can "sniff out" the locations that match their interests. Since our model is based on a simple physical phenomenon, data processing is tractable and its user interface is intuitive. Moreover, user privacy is protected by the random "wind" effect without reducing map accuracy. We conduct thorough outdoor experiments in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan, to demonstrate our model; twelve subjects were given mobile phones with GPS devices. The results show that the "scent" model provides an intriguing map with which to locate points of interest, and that the developed applications are promising.