Abstract: Apparatus, and a method for its use, for automatically verifying the identity of a person seeking access to a protected property that is remotely located with respect to the apparatus, such as a remotely located computer file or building alarm system. The apparatus, which is disclosed in the form of a handheld device (14) or other portable device (14′), includes a sensor (16) for reading biometric data, such as a fingerprint image, from the person, and a correlator (28) for comparing the sensed data with a previously stored reference image (32) and for determining whether there is a match. If there is a match, the device (14) initiates an exchange of signals over a communication network, with the “door” (10) that protects the property. Specifically, the device (14) generates a numerical value, such as a cyclic redundancy code, from the stored reference image (32), encrypts the numerical value, and transmits it to the door (10) as confirmation of the person's identity.

Abstract: Apparatus, and a corresponding method for its use, for gaining access to and operating a vehicle, such as a car (10), by means of at least one fingerprint sensor (16) installed inside the vehicle at a convenient location and, optionally, outside the vehicle (at 14), in or near a door handle (12). Once an authorized user's identify has been verified in a fingerprint matching device (30), various vehicle subsystems are automatically adjusted to the identified user's preferred settings, which are stored in a memory (98). In addition, starting the vehicle engine is enabled if an interior fingerprint sensor has been used, or the vehicle is unlocked if an exterior fingerprint sensor has been used. Vehicle subsystems that are automatically adjusted to the user preferences include seats (38), mirrors (40), steering wheel (42), climate control (44), airbag (52), telephone (46), radio (50) and onboard computer (54), as well as performance control features (48) such as suspension and transmission adjustment.

Abstract: Apparatus, and a method for its use, for automatically verifying the identity of a person seeking access to a protected property, such as a car, room, building or automatic teller machine. The apparatus, which is disclosed in the form of a handheld fob (14), includes a sensor (16) for reading biometric data, such as a fingerprint image, from the person (12), and a correlator (28) for comparing the sensed data with a previously stored reference image (32) and for determining whether there is a match. If there is a match, the fob (14) initiates an exchange of signals with the "door" (10) that protects the property. Specifically, the fob (14) generates a numerical value, such as a cyclic redundancy code, from the stored reference image (32), encrypts the numerical value, and transmits it to the door (10) as confirmation of the person's identity. For further security, the person (12) registers this numerical value at each door (10) to which access is desired.

Abstract: Apparatus, and a method for its use, for automatically verifying the identity of a person seeking access to a protected property that is remotely located with respect to the apparatus, such as a remotely located computer file or building alarm system. The apparatus, which is disclosed in the form of a handheld device (14) or other portable device (14'), includes a sensor (16) for reading biometric data, such as a fingerprint image, from the person, and a correlator (28) for comparing the sensed data with a previously stored reference image (32) and for determining whether there is a match. If there is a match, the device (14) initiates an exchange of signals over a communication network, with the "door" (10) that protects the property. Specifically, the device (14) generates a numerical value, such as a cyclic redundancy code, from the stored reference image (32), encrypts the numerical value, and transmits it to the door (10) as confirmation of the person's identity.