Have you ever dreamed of turning your passion into a successful business? I did just that with ScentVR, a DIY hardware kit that enhances the virtual reality experience by dispersing fragrances around the user.

It all started with a simple idea – to bring a new level of immersion to VR. I got to work designing circuit boards in Kicad and having them fabricated at pcbway.com in China. Using a bootstrapped approach, I sourced locally recycled materials for packaging and even 3D printed ink stamps for labelling.

Adding smells to ANY virtual reality headset scentvr.ca

Hard work and dedication paid off, as ScentVR quickly gained attention and support. The MKME Lab YouTube channel, which is sponsored by pcbway.com, provides a platform to fund equipment and supplies for future projects.

ScentVR is unique in its compatibility with any game or simulation, as it does not require any connection to the VR system. The proprietary algorithm disperses scents at various intervals and combinations for maximum immersion, and the kit can also be configured through a web interface for easy control.

Starting a new project from the ground up is a challenging, but rewarding experience. After 10 years of creating and uploading content to a YouTube channel, I was inspired to bring an idea to life that had been in the back of my mind for some time. That idea became ScentVR, a DIY kit that allows users to enhance their virtual reality simulations with the addition of scent.

Adding smells to ANY virtual reality headset scentvr.ca

The journey from concept to finished product was not without its challenges, but through my years of experience in the maker community and passion for open-source initiatives, I was able to bring ScentVR to life. To create the circuit boards, I used Kicad to design the boards, and had them fabricated at pcbway.com in China.

As a bootstrapped project, funding was crucial to my success. I was able to fund ScentVR and other projects through my YouTube channel, which is sponsored by pcbway.com. The channel not only provided funding for supplies like 3D printers, electronics test equipment, reflow ovens, and microscopes, but it also gave me a platform to share my journey with others.

To minimize the environmental impact of ScentVR, I made sure to source local, recycled materials for the packaging. I even 3D printed the ink stamps for the package labels. The entire project was a true DIY effort, and a testament to the power of passion and creativity.

ScentVR has yet to launch, but I am excited to share this project with the world. I hope it will inspire others to bring their own ideas to life, and to never give up on their passions. It is a reminder that no matter the obstacles, with hard work and determination, anything is possible.