Imagine firing up NFL Madden on your Playstation and as the players line up at the line of scrimmage you can smell the sweat.
St. Joseph-based
KISMET SSP (Knowledgeable International Sourcing of Manufactured Electronics Technologies - Strategic Sourcing Partners) is working with a California firm to make that kind of smell a reality by the fourth-quarter of 2011.
KISMET SSP is working out the logistics of the technology that will enhance the gaming experience by adding the sense of smell. A device will be able to emit a scent based on game play.
"As technology gets more sophisticated, we will see more add-ons for an immersive game play experience," says Charlene Coleman, Sensory Acumen, Inc. founder and CEO.
Sensory Acumen Inc. says it chose KISMET because of its highly reputable history as a strategic sourcing partner.
The scenting device has lots of potential. Conservatively speaking, if only 10 percent of the 200 million game units in the market place decide to add on the scenting device that translates to sales of 20 million devices. It's likely that at least 100 manufacturing jobs would be needed to meet the demand.
Although the gaming application of the device is getting all the attention its therapeutic uses may turn out to be more significant. The device will first be launched to the medical market. The device would be used by therapists treating with those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. A soldier, for example, triggered by the smell of a barbecue to remember a scene from battle could be retrained by using the scent device to make positive associations with the smell.
Development of the device is on track and KISMET is now seeking suppliers who will be able to manufacture it. Interested businesses should contact Orlando Malone, KISMET Chief of Operations.
Writer: Kathy Jennings
Source: Scott Lange, KISMET SSP
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