Abstract: A fingerprint sensor package preferably includes a fingerprint sensing integrated circuit in a housing, and a circuit substrate comprising first and second portions connected together. The first portion is within the housing and mounts the fingerprint sensing integrated circuit, and the second portion is flexible and extends outwardly from the housing for facilitating electrical connection to the fingerprint sensing integrated circuit from external to the housing. Each portion of the circuit substrate preferably includes at least one insulating layer and at least one electrical conductor thereon. Accordingly, the package can be made relatively compact and electrical interconnections are facilitated by the second portion or extension of the circuit substrate. In one embodiment, the first and second portions are integrally formed together. In this embodiment, the first portion is also flexible. The sensor package is readily included on the upper surface of a laptop computer, for example.

Abstract: An automatic finger guide for fingerprint scanners includes active scan area on the scanner surface upon which one finger rests and a non-active scan area on the scanner surface on which the other finger(s) rest to provide stability, a stop post to indicate how far forward to place the hand, a guide post to assist in positioning the finger left to right or right to left as the case may be, sensors on the post to provide feedback to the user to when the hand is properly in place and to determine the position as to where the finger comes to rest on the active scan area.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for forming a high contrast image of a patterned object, such as a fingerprint, including a first lens having a light receiving surface and a viewing surface and a second lens adjacent to the viewing surface of the first lens. A light source projects incident light into the first lens between the viewing surface and imaging surface such that at least a portion of the incident light undergoes total internal reflection. In this way, an image of the patterned object is generated by substantially all scattered light from the imaging surface.

Abstract: An optical system for imaging the features, ridges, and height variations of an object by exploiting the properties of specular reflection of light to maximize the contrast of the features, ridges, and height variations. The system provides a non-contact method of imaging objects suitable for biometric identification, such as the imaging of fingerprints. The system obtains the strong specular reflection using a properly shaped wave front. Optionally, the system can include a polarizer that filters and thereby enhances the specular reflection from the surface. Optionally, the system can also include pre-processing means for adjusting image brightness, contrast, and magnification.

Abstract: The present application discloses a wireless hand held portable security device in the form of a wireless hand held portable biometric device in communication with a plurality of ubiquitous items for receiving information from, and sending information to the plurality of ubiquitous items, comprising a processor for selecting at least one item of the plurality of ubiquitous items and for sending information to the selected item in order to activate or deactivate or send a programming to the selected item. The level of security and the personalization is achieved by using a fingerprint or a combination of fingerprints for accessing communication with a selected item.

Abstract: A carrier for a sweep-type fingerprint sensor and a method of operation are disclosed. The carrier has a recess for receiving and mounting the fingerprint sensor and one or more tactile elements for assisting the user in positioning a finger, and in correctly moving the finger across the sensor being read. In one embodiment the tactile element consists of an oval ridge, or a portion thereof, defining a major axis which is lies in the sweep direction. The tip of the finger is initially positioned in the arcuate portion of the oval ridge and is moved across the sensor, generally along the axis of the oval. The side walls of the ridge assist the user in correctly moving the finger across the sensor.

Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided that includes a fingerprint sensor and a guiding means. The sensing site of the fingerprint sensor makes a relative and obtuse angle with a guiding plane of the guiding means. The relative position of the guiding means with the fingerprint sensor allows for a more natural and ergonomically advantageous manner in obtaining a fingerprint. The task of reproducing a fingerprint now comes down to a pointing task of the fingertip to a guiding means. In addition, the relative position of the fingerprint sensor with the guiding means increases the reproducibility and reliability of fingerprint biometrics and authentication. Furthermore, the guiding means can be used as guidance but also as a sensor or actuator to initiate a process upon positive verification of the obtained fingerprint or to trigger the process of obtaining the fingerprint itself.

Abstract: A palmprint image capture apparatus includes an enclosure with a window in it, and an image sensor and light source disposed within the enclosure and arranged to capture an image through the window. Protuberances are provided on the surface. The protuberances are arranged to be in known juxtaposition to a hand suitably placed on the window for capture of an image that includes the palm area of the hand.

Abstract: A scanning device for electronically capturing a fingerprint image, employing a finger guide unit and a platen. The finger guide unit positions a finger for scanning by means of a gap into which the finger is placed. The guide maintains the finger within the print scanning range when used in conjunction with a movable platen. The guide unit is rotatable allowing the guide to be moved to expose the whole movable platen. The finger guide unit has two guide plates disposed adjacent one another creating a gap. The gap width is adjustable by means of an adjustment device, allowing fingers of any size to be properly positioned and guided within the scanner reading range. The guide plates each have an edge lined with low-friction material which contacts the finger when in use. The guide plates each have an extension which serves as a handle for raising the guide unit and as a hanger for suspending the guide unit above the platen for use.

Abstract: An adapter suitable for use with digital cameras (and other digital imaging devices) converts the digital camera to a biometric scanner. One exemplary adapter includes a receptacle for receiving a body part, a coupler for attachment to the digital camera, and one or more optical components for acquiring an image of a biometric characteristic of the body part. Optional features might include: (a) automatically detecting of the body part and transmitting a command to an input interface of the camera; (b) using auxiliary lighting to illuminate the biometric image; (b) digitally post-processing the image after acquisition but prior to authentication; and/or (d) acquiring a biometric utterance of the user providing the biometric image for dual-factor biometric authentication; and/or still other features described herein.

Abstract: A narrow array capacitive semiconductor fingerprint detection system includes an array of capacitive sensing elements. The array has a first dimension about the width of a fingerprint and second dimension less than the length of a fingerprint. A scan control unit is coupled to scan the array at a scan rate determined by the speed of finger movement over the array. The scan control unit scans the array capture partial fingerprint images. Output logic is coupled to the array to assemble the captured fingerprint images into a complete image based upon the direction of finger movement over the array. A mouse device is positioned adjacent the array in the path of finger movement over the array. The mouse device is coupled to provide finger movement speed information to the scan control unit. The mouse device is also coupled to provide finger movement direction information to the output logic.

Abstract: A handgun holster has a body defining a handgun receiving pocket. The holster includes a retention device proximate to said pocket and capable of selectively resisting withdrawal of said handgun from said holster. The holster also includes a biometric device capable of sensing a characteristic of an individual, and being effective to selectively release said handgun from said holster.

Abstract: A narrow array optical fingerprint detector that substantially eliminates over-sampling of the array measures the speed of a finger moving over the array and scans the array at a rate determined by the speed of movement of the finger. The fingerprint detector measures the speed of finger movement with a transparent cylinder rotatably mounted adjacent the array. The transparent cylinder is mounted to engage the finger and rotate as the finger is swept past the array. A light chopper is mounted for rotation with the cylinder. A photo-sensor is mounted adjacent the light chopper. The photo-sensor produces a signal in response to light being chopped by the light chopper. The photo-sensor is operably connected to scanning circuitry. Each time the scanning circuitry receives a signal from the photo-sensor, the scanning circuitry scans the array.

Abstract: A system and method for sending a packet with a position address and line scan data from a first device over a 1394 interface to a second device. The present invention loads a camera, an illuminator, and a microprocessor with set-up instructions and a start pulse. The camera captures a line-by-line image of an object placed on the surface of a sliding prism. Position data, corresponding to the captured line-by-line image, is logged as the position address. The position address is combined with the line-by-line image to form a packet. The packet is sent to the second device for processing and viewing the image.

Abstract: A scanning fingerprint detection system includes an array of capacitive sensing elements, the array having a first dimension greater than the width of a fingerprint and a second dimension less than the length of a fingerprint. Each of the capacitive sensing elements has first and second conductor plates connected across an inverting amplifier, the conductor plates forming capacitors with the ridges and valleys of a fingerprint of a finger pressed against a protective coating above the array, the inverting amplifier generating a signal indicative of a ridge or valley. Circuitry is provided for scanning the array to capture an image of a portion of fingerprint and for assembling the captured images into a fingerprint image.

Abstract: A fingerprint reading system includes a guide mechanism that defines the path of a finger across an interrogation region defined by an imaging device and includes a locking mechanism that selectively restricts the guide mechanism. In one embodiment, the guide mechanism is a finger guide that is restricted from following its established slide path, unless there is an applied force in the direction generally perpendicular to the slide path. The finger guide includes a finger-supporting region with an opening configured to expose the finger to the imaging device. Following a fingerprint reading operation, the finger guide is returned to a rest position by at least one spring mechanism. Preferably, the locking mechanism is configured to require pressure on opposite sides of the finger guide, with the opposite sides being aligned with the slide path.

Abstract: A fingerprint reading system includes a guide mechanism that defines the path of a finger across an interrogation region defined by an imaging device and includes a locking mechanism that selectively restricts the guide mechanism. In one embodiment, the guide mechanism is a finger guide that is restricted from following its established slide path, unless there is an applied force in the direction generally perpendicular to the slide path. The finger guide includes a finger-supporting region with an opening configured to expose the finger to the imaging device. Following a fingerprint reading operation, the finger guide is returned to a rest position by at least one spring mechanism. Preferably, the locking mechanism is configured to require pressure on opposite sides of the finger guide, with the opposite sides being aligned with the slide path.

Abstract: The system and method store biometric information on a token having a magnetic storage medium. A biometric image is captured and digital pixel data is generated therefrom for an array of image pixels. A plurality of spaced apart sets of image pixels are selected from the array of image pixels, and respective sets of digital pixel data are processed for the selected spaced apart sets of image pixels to produce biometric data. The biometric data is stored on the magnetic storage medium of the token for subsequent use in verifying an authorized user of the token.

Abstract: A fingerprint identification apparatus comprises a contact image sensor (CIS) module, a keyswitch and a restoring unit. The keyswitch has a transparent plate for finger-tactility. The user put his finger on the transparent plate to move the transparent plate such that the keyswitch has relative movement with respect to the CIS module and the CIS module scans the fingerprint of user for fingerprint identification. The restoring unit is arranged on the keyswitch and provides restoring force to the keyswitch.

Abstract: When a user places his finger on a fingerprint detecting section, in the fingerprint detecting section, a shadow made by the finger placed on the fingerprint detecting section is detected by a sensor portion, and then, when it is judged that a shape of the detected shadow coincides with a distribution of the shadow made by the user's finger, and thereby, a power is turned on. Thereafter, a fingerprint is detected from the finger placed on the fingerprint detecting section, and then, the detected fingerprint is collated with a previously stored fingerprint data so as to identify the user. Further, it is possible to use various data such as schedule data corresponding to the identified user. Therefore, this dispenses an operation for turning on the power and an instruction for starting fingerprint collation.

Abstract: The enclosure assembly comprises a stationary member including at least two substantially parallel sidewalls, the sidewalls, the sidewalls partially defining a cavity in which the fingerprint sensor is disposed. An access piece, configured to move relative to the stationary member, has a surface area larger than the surface area of the fingerprint sensor and further includes a conductive portion electrically coupled to ground. A movement apparatus is preferably mechanically coupled to the stationary member and the moveable access piece. The movement apparatus is configured to maintain the moveable access piece in a position covering the fingerprint sensor and yet to allow motion of the moveable access piece relative to the stationary member so as to expose the fingerprint sensor. According to another embodiment, a method for enrolling a composite image of an object using a fingerprint sensor is provided.

Abstract: A fingerprint reading system includes a guide mechanism that defines the path of a finger across an interrogation region defined by an imaging device and includes a locking mechanism that selectively restricts the guide mechanism. In one embodiment, the guide mechanism is a finger guide that is restricted from following its established slide path, unless there is an applied force in the direction generally perpendicular to the slide path. The finger guide includes a finger-supporting region with an opening configured to expose the finger to the imaging device. Following a fingerprint reading operation, the finger guide is returned to a rest position by at least one spring mechanism. Preferably, the locking mechanism is configured to require pressure on opposite sides of the finger guide, with the opposite sides being aligned with the slide path.

Abstract: A fingerprint identification system, which can reduce repetitions of erroneous fingerprint input operations, includes a fingerprint input sensor on which an individual to be identified places a finger, which reads a fingerprint from the finger; a processor which determines a center of the fingerprint which is read by the fingerprint input sensor and calculates a gap between a center of the fingerprint input sensor and the center of the fingerprint; and a guiding unit which notifies a move direction to the individual based upon the gap and guides the finger to a proper position.

Abstract: A small capacitance change detection device includes a capacitance detection element, signal generation circuit, signal amplification circuit, and output circuit. The signal amplification circuit includes a first transistor and first to third voltage sources. The second or third voltage source is connected to the other output terminal of the first transistor via a first switch. A voltage to be applied from the second voltage source to the other output terminal is set to have a value equal to or larger than a value obtained by subtracting a threshold voltage of the first transistor from a voltage of the first voltage source while a voltage to be applied from the third voltage source to the other output terminal is set to have a value equal to or smaller than a value obtained by subtracting the threshold voltage from the voltage of the first voltage source.

Abstract: The invention concerns a system for acquiring three-dimensional fingerprints, characterised in that it comprises: a medium (1) for receiving at least the object whose print is to be taken; optical image recording means (2); means for optical imaging (3) of the surface of the finger on the recording means. This system is applicable for acquiring fingerprints. It comprises various means for immobilising the hand.

Abstract: A method of and system for providing user input to a computer, or the like, having a display by detecting a change in fingerprint pattern of a user. The system controls the position of a pointer on a display by detecting motion of ridges and pores of a fingerprint of a user and moving the pointer on the display according to detected motion of the ridges and pores of the fingerprint. The system captures successive images of the fingerprint ridges and pores and detects motion of the ridges and pores based upon the captured successive images.

Abstract: Fingerprinting and fingerprint detection, techniques are described which, unlike typical fingerprint systems used to conceal video signals, are compatible with all conceivable forms of signal compression systems while still allowing viewing of the video signal. The fingerprint technique is based on the principle of applying very slight local spatial distortion to the pixels in a video image, and the like, by means of selected warp patterns. Thus the technique provides means for conveying, within the video signal, selected information in the form of the fingerprint which is detectable electronically but which is not noticeable to a critical viewer who is watching the video signal. That is, the resultant fingerprinted video signal will appear to be identical to the undistorted video signal.

Abstract: A fingerprint optical input apparatus comprises a contact image sensor for viewing a moving finger and providing a high contrast image. A narrow strip of the fingerprint touching a transparent platen is illuminated by sheet of collimated light normal to or at an oblique angle to the surface. The fingerprint image is viewed at an oblique angle by partially scattered light or by frustrated total internal reflection by a GRIN rod lens array and projected onto a linear array sensor. Various embodiments of the platen provide a compact design by using TIR or mirror reflections of the fingerprint image.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically determining a set of default settings (with respect to a blank image) so that a uniform and high contrast image results when, for example, a finger is present on a sensor device. A background noise image and other diagnostic data, such as non-functional areas, are also automatically determined with respect to the blank image and stored for future reference. The above processing is performed each time the sensor device is initialized. Once the initialization process is complete, the individual places the required biometric feature, for example, a finger on the sensor device. The methodology adjusts the set of default settings to account for the condition of the biometric feature being imaged by increasing or decreasing the sensitivity level of the sensor device. The determination of optimum sets is achieved by analyzing specific regions of the image data rather than the entire image.

Abstract: Disclosed is a retaining device for lockingly receiving a firearm wherein the firearm has a barrel, barrel sight, grip, hammer and trigger guard. The retaining device comprises a holster having a closed forward portion and an open rearward portion. A guide channel is positioned within the holster for accepting the barrel and trigger guard of the firearm. A fingerprint identification means has a fingerprint input device positioned upon the external surface of the holster at an intermediate extent. Further provided is a comparison means for comparing an inputted fingerprint with a stored fingerprint image, and a signal generating means for generating a first signal when an inputted fingerprint matches a stored fingerprint and a second signal when an inputted fingerprint fails to match a stored fingerprint. The signal generating means is in electrical communication with and controls a firearm retaining means.

Abstract: A scanning fingerprint detection system that includes an array of capacitive sensing elements. The array has a first dimension greater than the width of a fingerprint and a second dimension less than the length of a fingerprint. Each of the capacitive sensing elements has a size less than the width of a fingerprint ridge. Circuitry is provided for scanning the array to capture an image of a portion of fingerprint and for assembling the captured images into a fingerprint image as a fingerprint is moved over the array.

Abstract: A fingerprint optical input apparatus comprises a contact image sensor for viewing a moving finger and providing a high contrast image. A narrow strip of the fingerprint touching a transparent platen is illuminated by sheet of collimated light at an oblique angle to the surface. The fingerprint image is viewed by frustrated total internal reflection by a GRIN rod lens array and projected onto a linear array sensor. Various embodiments of the platen provide a compact design by using TIR or mirror reflections of the fingerprint image.

Abstract: A fingerprint sensor includes an array of fingerprint sensing elements; analog-to-digital (A/D) converters having a controllable range; a scanner to perform sequential A/D conversions of predetermined ones of the array of fingerprint sensing elements; and a range determining and setting circuit for controlling the range of the A/D converters based upon prior A/D conversions to thereby provide enhanced conversion resolution. A plurality of A/D converters are preferably used for simultaneously converting analog signals from a corresponding plurality of fingerprint sensing elements. The A/D converters may include at least one reference voltage input for permitting setting of first and second points of the range. The range scale determining and setting circuit may generate a histogram based upon prior A/D conversions. In addition, the range scale determining and setting circuit may set a default range for initial ones of the fingerprint sensing elements.

Abstract: A fingerprint imaging system includes a light source, an optical platen having a light receiving face positioned such that the light from the source impinges thereon, and a finger receiving face positioned such that light from the light source through the light receiving face impinges on the finger receiving face. A light detector is positioned to receive light from the light source reflected from the finger receiving face. The light receiving surface of the platen is configured to avoid reflection of external light passing through the finger receiving face and impinging on the light receiving face.

Abstract: For the better identification of not-enrolled fingerprint images, images of skin lines of two juxtaposed fingers (1, 2) of a hand are recorded. The orientations of the finger longitudinal axes (L1, L2) with respect to the normal direction (N) are determined and by means of a guidance means (13) a rotation or twisting (W1) of the fingers about their longitudinal axis is largely avoided, so that virtually coinciding, defined partial image quantities (B3, B4) of the complete enrolled fingerprint (A) are detected and transferred by evaluation algorithms into a reduced data quantity. This allows a much greater identification reliability with a smaller storage requirement and simpler evaluation algorithms.

Abstract: In an optical finger image system, a platen is provided to receive and support a finger to be interrogated. A light beam source orients an interrogating light beam onto the platen, so that the beam forms a shallow angle with the platen and intersects the platen at a trace. The light beam illuminates ridge, valley, and ridge/valley edge portions of the finger. An image of the finger generated by the interrogating light beam is focused by imaging optics onto an image plane. A photo-electric transducer array is positioned at the image plane, the transducer array having a window region. The window region is positioned such that illuminated ridge and ridge/valley edge portions of the finger are imaged within the window; while illuminated valley portions of the finger are not imaged in the window. The angle of the light beam incident on the platen is compounded to generate an image of enhanced brightness at ridge/valley edges.

Abstract: When a finger 8 is put on a fingerprint input sensor 1, it is held in contact with living body potential deriving electrodes 21 and 22. In addition, a finger portion near the first joint is held in contact with a living body grounding electrode 3 to ground the living body. With the finger 8 pushed against the fingerprint input sensor 1 for inputting the fingerprint, finger muscle potentials signals 101 to 103 are obtained from these electrodes. A living body data measuring unit 4 takes differences of these finger muscle potentials for one another, and outputs the result as living body data potential data 104. A living body data analyzing unit 5 analyzes the potential data and frequency data of the living body potential difference data 104, and outputs analysis data 105. A living body discriminating unit 6 makes a determination, from the analysis data 105, as to whether the finger 8 is a finger of living body or a replica finger.

Abstract: Two grooves are provided on a rear face of the remote control transmission apparatus and a plurality of electrodes are arranged in the grooves in substantially the same direction as an extension direction thereof. The plurality of the electrodes are connected to a conversion device. The conversion device measures an impedance between each of the electrodes and the finger placed in the groove, codes that impedance distribution pattern and transmits it to a recognition device. The recognition device determines whether or not he is a particular registered person by verifying with a preliminarily stored registration pattern and controls availability of a pay channel according to the determination result.

Abstract: The fingerprint sensor device comprises a thin flat transparent support (10) having an outside face for receiving the end of a finger and carrying on an inside face a two-dimensional matrix of photosensitive elements separated by strip-shaped gaps, and a substrate (14) carrying on an inside face light sources for directing light through the support via the strip-shaped gaps and substantially orthogonally to said outside face. The photosensitive elements are protected from the light coming from the sources so as to deliver an output signal only in response to light that has been back-scattered towards the outside face of the support.

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: A biometric time and attendance device for scanning an epidermal portion of a human body, generating an epidermal topographical pattern and transmitting the epidermal topographical pattern to a host computer for determining access privileges and for updating epidermal topographical database.

Abstract: A thin, inexpensive, removable platen for a direct fingerprint reader without a permanently attached platen. A removable platen is formed as a transparent area on a credit card, passport or identification card or as a separate card. The portable platen on the card is inserted over an imaging area of the direct fingerprint reader. Light from the direct fingerprint reader passes through an optical surface formed on the underside of the portable platen, is reflected off the fingerprint and passes back through the optical surface to the imaging apparatus where the image is digitized and analyzed. The optical surface is formed such that the incident light is not refracted away from the fingerprint and the reflected light from the fingerprint is not refracted away from the imaging apparatus.

Abstract: A computer system and method determines the force and/or torque applied during the image acquisition stage of a biometric characteristic. Images with very high or very low pressure or high shear torque are rejected and user/operator is notified to re-acquire the image. Alternatively, the application of force and torque by the subject is restricted mechanically so that the images are acquired while the force and/or torque are within acceptable ranges.

Abstract: A method and ultra-compact system has been developed for illuminating and detecting the surface topography of an object such as the finger (4) of an individual. The system (8) is capable of producing high-contrast images which can be electronically transmitted in real-time, or stored using electronic or photographic recording devices. Light traveling within a light transmitting substrate (2) is redirected by a slanted-fringed light diffractive grating preferably embodied within a volume hologram (3). The volume hologram (3), either of the reflection or transmission type, is attached to the light transmitting substrate (2). and functions to diffract light striking thereupon and illuminate an object having topographical surface structure. After being spatially and intensity modulated in accordance with topographical details of the illuminated object, the insulated light passes back through the light transmitting substrate (2) and the volume hologram (3), onto an image detection array. for subsequent analysis.

Abstract: A housing in accordance with the invention includes a platen therein having a platen surface adapted to be contacted by a digit of a person's hand and first and second exterior surfaces. The first surface has an aperture, and the platen surface is in register with the aperture for contact by a digit. The second surface is displaced from the first to provide a grasping surface. The housing is shaped to orient the digit relative to the platen to ensure a firm grip of the housing and is also shaped such that the second surface contacts four digits of the user's hand while a chosen, fifth digit is positioned on the platen. A further, optional feature is base which is shaped to support the housing so that the housing is universally positionable in the base to a preselected position for grasping the first and second surfaces and acquiring the print.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method for commerce through a set-top box in which fingerprint data is employed. After prompting an operator to make a purchase through the set-top box, the operator provides fingerprint data to the set-top box. Account information of the operator is also obtained and conveyed to a remote location. The fingerprint data is compared to stored fingerprint data of the operator, and, in the event that the fingerprint data provided to the set-top box matches the stored fingerprint data, the operator's account is billed for any purchases that are made. The stored fingerprint data can be stored within the set-top box, a remote server, a central station, or on a card. Also disclosed is an improved set-top box of the type operable by a wireless control. The set-top box according to the invention includes a fingerprint reader either on the set-top box or the wireless control. The fingerprint reader acquires prints from a digit of an operator.

Abstract: An image input device has a optical guide plate exposed to a window of a photo-shield case, a pair of light emitting diodes attached to side surfaces of the optical guide plate for radiating light into it, an area image sensor provided under the optical guide plate, a gradient index lens unit provided between the optical guide plate and the area image sensor and a filter connected to the area image sensor for eliminating a low frequency component from an image carrying signal; when a person presses a finger on the optical guide plate, the fingerprint scatters the light toward the gradient index lens unit, and the area image sensor produces the image carrying signal from the incident light; the reflection on valley lines is gradually varied along the width of the finger, and the elimination of the low frequency component makes the contrast of the image clear.

Abstract: A tenprint selector comprises a fingerprint pattern level feature difference calculating unit which receives and compares a set of candidates for pattern level feature types of fingerprint images shown on file cards and a set of candidates for pattern level feature types of fingerprint images shown on a search card and calculates a pattern level feature difference, a card difference calculating unit which calculates a card difference based on the pattern level feature difference of the fingerprint images of all fingers shown on the file cards and the search card, and a judging unit which compares the card difference determined by the card difference calculating means with a predetermined card difference threshold value and judges, whether the file card shall be selected to be further checked with the search card.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for the accurate determination of the identity of human beings by comparing a fingerprint image with previously recorder templates utilize an oil impregnated material to condition a finger by releasing a controlled amount of a lubricant on the finger prior to recording the finger with an electronic scanner. The conditioned finger in then scanned and a fingerprint image is acquired. Different orthogonal sets of features, including but not limited to, minutiae and meniscus or global ridge frequency information are extracted from the fingerprint image. To enhance the matching accuracy, these features are then fused using a rank score combining method. The fused score is compared to a threshold to identify the human being. During the scanning process, the scanned finger is monitored electronically to determine the consistency in position, the quality of the image, and the stationary of the finger.

Abstract: A method and ultra-compact system has been developed for illuminating and detecting the surface topography of an object such as the finger of an individual. The system is capable of producing high-contrast images which can be electronically transmitted in real-time, or stored using electronic or photographic recording devices. Light traveling within a light transmitting substrate is redirected by a slanted-fringe light diffractive grating preferably embodied within a volume hologram. The volume hologram, either of the reflection or transmission type, is attached to the light transmitting substrate, and functions to diffract light striking thereupon and illuminate an object having topographical surface structure. After being spatially and intensity modulated in accordance with topographical details of the illuminated object, the modulated light passes back through the light transmitting substrate and the volume hologram, onto an image detection array, for subsequent analysis.