Abstract: A device and method for applying and retaining a data carrier to a living body for providing identification of the body with respect to a reference group wherein the body's external nail surface structure, the method comprising selecting a carrier suitable for attachment to the nail surface, modifying the carrier to include a unique data format and attaching the carrier at the nail surface. The data carrier comprises a thin, substantially flat carrier suitable for attachment to the nail surface and a unique data format applied to the carrier adapting the same for repeated detection. The device and method are adaptable for use within identification systems such as hospital patient identification, clinical testing and security access control environments.

Abstract: A device and method for applying and retaining a unique data carrier to a tooth surface of an individual. The data carrier comprises a thin sheet of material having a data format unique to the individual. This data carrier is attached to the surface of the individual's tooth and is adapted for detection by a reader which can be operated by a third person. All phases of installation and detection of the carrier involve passive, noninvasive techniques which can be applied without regard to age and can be maintained as part of a permanent identification system. The system further comprises a central data bank which becomes a verification source for identifying information carried at the individual's tooth surface.