Abstract: A system and method for reliably testing for toxic substances is described. Based on spectrographic means, the system embodies one or more types of spectrometers, designed for the detection of toxic elements such as lead, and alternatively designed for the detection of toxic compounds such as asbestos. By restricting the broad functionality common to a typical spectrometer, dramatic cost reductions can be made permitting the device to be cost-effectively manufactured and made available to the typical consumer. The device can be portable and incorporates safety systems to inhibit improper use.

Abstract: A system and method for reliably testing for toxic substances is described. Based on spectrographic means, the system embodies one or more types of spectrometers, designed for the detection of toxic elements such as lead, and alternatively designed for the detection of toxic compounds such as asbestos. By restricting the broad functionality common to a typical spectrometer, dramatic cost reductions can be made permitting the device to be cost-effectively manufactured and made available to the typical consumer. The device is can be portable and incorporates safety systems to inhibit improper use.

Abstract: A computer implemented gambling chip recognition system having the ability to capture an image of a stack of gambling chips and automatically processing the image to determine the number of chips within the stack and the value of each. The system processor determines the classification for each chip in a stack by way of processing performed in real time on the image of the stack of gambling chips. The system further includes the ability to communicate the information derived from the stack of gambling chips to a video monitor and the ability to communicate the information to a main database where information is being compiled and stored about an individual gambler.

Abstract: A portable and lightweight fingerprint scanning apparatus which can optically scan and record fingerprint images in the field and transmit said images to a mobile unit for processing and subsequent wireless transmission to a central location for the purpose of providing immediate identity and background checks on the individual being fingerprinted. The apparatus of the present invention includes a fingerprint scanner for capturing a fingerprint image, a camera for capturing a photographic image of a person or a scene and means for transmitting the fingerprint image and the photographic image to a mobile unit. In the preferred embodiment the present invention includes a highly integrated camera with a superior signal to noise ratio and an infrared lighting source for illuminating a person or scene in low ambient light situations.

Abstract: A finger drying component for use with a finger print image processing apparatus is disclosed. The drying component removes moisture from the finger so that an unsmudged finger print can be imaged. A preferred embodiment involves the use of a forced air dryer to conduct a stream of air across the optical imaging surface.

Abstract: A system for generating data characteristic of a rolled skinprint in real time. A body part such as a finger contacts a receiving surface of an optical device. The receiving surface is imaged and recorded on an image recording medium during the period of contact. The resulting record is then used to generate digital data representative of the image of the skinprint. This is especially useful for recording a rolled fingerprint image taken on a flat receiving surface.

Abstract: A portable fingerprint scanning apparatus for identification verification which can optically scan and record fingerprint images in the field and wirelessly transmit said images to a mobile unit for processing and subsequent wireless transmission to a central location for the purpose of providing immediate identity and background checks on the individual being fingerprinted. The apparatus includes a fingerprint scanner and a wireless transmitter to transmit the fingerprint image to a mobile unit. The apparatus can also include a video camera to capture a photographic image or "mug shot" for wireless transmission to a mobile unit.

Abstract: A method for generating data characteristic of a rolled fingerprint image in real time. A finger is continuously rolled across a finger receiving surface of an optical device. The finger receiving surface is imaged to generate digital data representative of fingerprint images propagated therefrom. A first array of data characteristic of a fingerprint image of a first finger slice is stored, and merged into a composite array. After the first array is merged into the composite array, a second array of data characteristic of a second finger slice which is adjacent to and overlaps the first finger slice is stored. The second array is then merged into the composite array by storing data in the composite array as a function of a comparison and an average of data in the composite array and second array which are characteristic of overlapping portions of the finger slices.

Abstract: Methods for operating a programmable digital computer to enhance images of fingerprints represented by an array of pixel values. Methods for noise averaging, illumination equalizing, directional filtering, unhairing, curvature correcting, and scale correcting a fingerprint image are disclosed.

Abstract: An optical fingerprinting system includes an optics/processor unit, a video monitor, a data terminal, and a printer. The optics/processor unit includes a slap print prism for providing slap fingerprint images, and a plurality of individual finger prisms having differently sized finger-receiving grooves for providing individual fingerprint images. Slap/finger image selection optics selectively propagate fingerprint images from one of the individual finger prisms or slap print prism to a video camera. A video monitor is coupled to the camera, and provides a real-time display of the fingerprints being imaged. When a desired fingerprint image is observed on the monitor, an appropriate key of a key pad on the optics/processor unit is actuated and digital data characteristic of this image stored in memory. Following this procedure, data characteristic of all ten individual fingerprints and slap prints of both hands is stored.