Electronic nose (device consisting of an array of non-specific electronic sensors and a pattern recognition system)

Manufacturers, startups, universities, research institutions

This market report focuses on odor sensing technology, especially those often referred to as electronic nose. This indicates a device consisting of an array of non-specific electronic sensors and a pattern recognition system. Note that: 

• This refers to a device capable of identifying/discriminating odors through pattern recognition of odor molecules, rather than simply measuring odor intensity.
• This excludes devices that only measure odor concentration/intensity, as well as specific gas detectors such as gas leak alarms or breathalyzers.
• This also excludes analytical instruments that separate and analyze individual gas components, such as gas chromatographs (GC).

I   Current Status and Perspectives of Electronic Nose Market

• Lack of “standard (baseline)” odor makes analysis challenging
• Smell triggers memories but what connects them is still undiscovered
• Human nose vs electronic nose: current recognition tests are conducted on both
• Prime “Blue Ocean” - enticing but risky market 
• More companies are jumping in, but many have withdrawn

II   Current Status and Perspectives of Electronic Nose Market by Segment/ Application

• Combining multiple distinctive sensing methods for optimal value proposition
• Monetizing model remains a challenge across segments
• Electronic nose “discriminates” odors; it does not “measure odor intensity”
• Range of utilization varies by application
• Utilization of electronic nose for AI, machine learning, and digital transformation (DX)
• Attempts by universities and research institutions
• No international standard for electronic nose technology
• Developments active in European and Asian countries 

III   Market Players 

• ScentifAI, Inc. (former Aroma Bit, Inc.）
• ANRITSU CORPORATION
• Kanazawa Institute of Technology
• Karumoa Co., Ltd. 
• Kyushu University
• Komi Hakko Corp. 
• National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology （AIST）
• SUN-WA TECHNOS CORPORATION
• Sanyo Chemical Industries, Ltd.
• Shimadzu Corporation
• The University of Tokyo
• Institute of Science Tokyo
• TAIYO YUDEN CO., LTD.
• National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS)
• Bosch (Bosch Sensortec)
• REVORN Co., Ltd.
• aba Inc.
• Alpha MOS
• I-PEX Inc.
• Qception Corporation