Perceptual Shift Keying: A Novel Modulation Technique for Odor-Based Molecular Communication

Odor-based molecular communication (OMC) has emerged as an innovative paradigm with substantial potential across diverse application domains. This thesis introduces Odor Perceptual Shift Keying (OPSK), a novel modulation technique that encodes information by strategically shifting perceptual dimensions of odor molecules, such as pleasantness, intensity, and edibility. OPSK's effectiveness is theoretically demonstrated through comprehensive analyses of system parameters, yielding promising results in terms of bit error rate and symbol rate across distances ranging from millimeters to kilometers. To bridge theoretical advancements with practical realization, the development of a macro-scale experimental OMC end-to-end testbed was contributed to, facilitating odor transmission using Arduino-controlled odor reservoirs, air compressors, and precise airflow management within plexiglass channels, along with sensor-based detection at the receiver using a Bosch BME688 Development Kit. Furthermore, to illustrate potential practical applications, interplant communication was explored, demonstrating how plants interact through molecular signals and symbiotic relationships with mycorrhizal fungi. A novel architecture leveraging these natural interactions for energy harvesting via glucose extraction was proposed and validated through comprehensive analyses. Collectively, these contributions establish OPSK as a viable and versatile molecular communication method, significantly expanding the applicability of OMC systems in both engineered and natural contexts.