FR3022663A1 - IDENTIFICATION SYSTEM - Google Patents

Abstract

Identification system comprising: - an initialization device (1) comprising a finger receiving area of a user comprising a fingerprint sensor and a connector (7), - a ring (9) comprising a connector (16), ○ a skin contact sensor (17), the ring being in an activated state when it is threaded to the user's finger and deactivated when it is not, the device of initialization being able to transmit to the ring an identification code in response to, simultaneously: - the reading of authorized fingerprints, - a connection between the connectors of the ring and the initialization device, and the state activated ring, and the ring in the activated state being able to store the identification code and transmit it in response to an identification request, the ring being also able to erase and to switch in the inactive state in case of loss of contact with the skin of the user r.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD The invention relates to the field of the identification of an individual using his biometric characters and more particularly his fingerprints.

BACKGROUND ART Biometric characteristics, because they are specific to each individual, make it possible to ascertain with certainty the identity of a person. Many devices use biometric identification, whether it is fingerprinting, facial recognition, iris or whatever. The biometric characteristics, converted into identification data, are thus exploited for example to ensure that the person is authorized to perform a particular action such as paying for a purchase from a given bank account, entering a place to access restricted, etc.

According to one embodiment, the invention provides an identification system comprising: an initialization device comprising a fingerprint reader device, a control module and a reception area intended to receive a finger of a fingerprint; user, the receiving zone comprising a sensor of the fingerprint reader device and a connector, - an individual portable ring intended to be threaded to the finger of the user, the ring comprising: o a complementary connector of the connector of the device initialization and located on an outer face of the ring, o a control module, o a data storage device, o an identification code communication interface, o a contact sensor with the skin located on an inner face of the ring so as to be in contact with the skin of the user when the ring is threaded on the finger of the user, the control module of the ring switching the ring in an activated state when the contact sensor is in contact with the skin of the user and in a deactivated state when the contact sensor is not in contact with the skin of the user, - a database in which fingerprint data are stored, the initialization device being connected to the database, wherein the control module of the initialization device is adapted to transmit to the connector of the ring a code of identification in response to, simultaneously: the reading by the sensor of the fingerprint reader 15 of a fingerprint corresponding to a record of the database, - the presence of a connection between the connector of the ring and the connector of the initialization device, and - the presence of the activated state of the ring, and in which the control module of the ring in the activated state, in response to the receipt of the code of IDENTIFICATION it is able to store in the data storage device of the ring the identification code received by its connector and able to open the communication interface, the communication interface in the open state being able to receive an identification request and to transmit the identification code stored in the data storage device of the ring in response to the identification request, the control module of the ring being further able to detect the loss of contact of the contact sensor with the skin of the user and able to close the communication interface and erase the identification code stored in the data storage device of the ring in response to the detection of the loss touch contact of the contact sensor with the skin of the user. According to embodiments, such an identification system may include one or more of the following features. In one embodiment, the connector of the initialization device and the connector of the ring are electrical contact connectors.

In one embodiment, the system further comprises an identification code generator connected to the control module of the initialization device and able to generate an identification code, the identification code transmitted by the control module. the initialization device being generated by the generator.

In one embodiment, the identification code generator is connected to the database, the identification code generator being able to transmit the generated identification code to the database for storing said code of identification. identification generated in a database record in association with fingerprint data that corresponds to the fingerprint read by the fingerprint reader sensor. In one embodiment, a ring identifier is permanently stored in the ring data storage device, said ring identifier also being stored in a database record in association with data of the ring data storage device. fingerprints corresponding to the fingerprints of the user, the control module of the initialization device being able to transmit to the connector of the ring an identification code in response to, simultaneously: the reading by the sensor of the device fingerprint reading of a fingerprint corresponding to a record of the database, the presence of a connection between the connector of the ring and the connector of the initialization device, the presence of the state activated ring, and the presence in the data storage device of the ring code ring corresponding to the associated ring code in the registration of the bottom e fingerprint data read by the sensor of the fingerprint reader.

In one embodiment, the communication interface of the ring is a contactless transmission / reception device. In one embodiment, the non-contact transmitting / receiving device is a radio device.

In one embodiment, the transmitting / receiving device is a Bluetooth device. In one embodiment, the identification system further comprises a client device comprising a communication interface capable of sending an identification request to the ring and able to receive the identification code transmitted by the ring by response to the identification request. The client device is also able to use and / or directly transmit the identification code received to verify the identity of the wearer of the identification ring. Such a client device may be a dedicated device. The client device may also be a multifunction device configured to also perform this function, for example a cell phone, a touch pad or the like in which an application is added to allow the sending of an identification request to the ring. and receiving the identification code transmitted by the ring. In one embodiment, the identification system further includes a server in which the database is stored, the server being connected to the client device and the initialization device. In one embodiment, the identification system further comprises a web service connected to the server, the records of the database further comprising data for accessing the web service, said web service access data comprising identification data and an associated password, the web service comprising means for accessing the initialization device adapted to control the correspondence of the fingerprints read by the fingerprint sensor and the fingerprint data stored in the fingerprint. database or the initialization device comprising a means of accessing the web service capable of performing this control.

According to one embodiment, the invention also provides a method of operating an identification system as above comprising: receiving a finger from a user on the fingerprint reader; on which the ring is threaded so that said finger is in contact with the sensor of the fingerprint reader and the connector of the ring is connected to the connector of the initialization device - detecting the activated status of the ring detects the connection between the ring connector and the connector of the initialization device - read the fingerprint in contact with the sensor of the fingerprint reader 10, detect a correspondence between the fingerprint read by the fingerprint sensor and a database record, - transmit an identification code from the initialization device to the ring via the connector, store the in the data storage device of the ring, activate the communication interface of the ring to make available to a third-party device the identification code. 20 monitor the persistence of contact between the ring and the skin. In one embodiment, the method further comprises: selecting from the database a record having fingerprint data that corresponds to the fingerprints read by the fingerprint reader sensor, detecting a match between the ring code stored in the data storage device of the ring and the ring code stored in the selected record, certain aspects of the invention start from the idea of providing an identification device 30 guaranteeing a high level of security while being cumbersome and non-intrusive. Some aspects of the invention start from the idea of providing a device that can be easily uninstalled and reinstalled. Some aspects of the invention start from the idea of providing a device that can be uninstalled and reinstalled without requiring the presence of an authorized person.

Some aspects of the invention are based on the idea of providing a device providing a high degree of security in identification by a non-permanent but non-alterable link between an individual and an identification device. Certain aspects of the invention are based on the idea of providing an identification device which guarantees the identity of its wearer when he is active and which is deactivated as soon as he is no longer worn. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The invention will be better understood, and other objects, details, features and advantages thereof will become more clearly apparent from the following description of several particular embodiments of the invention, given only in connection with illustrative and non-limiting, with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 represents a view from above of an initialization device of an identification system; FIG. 2 represents a sectional view of an identification ring of the identification system; Figure 3 shows a block diagram of the ring of Figure 2; Figure 4 shows a state diagram of the ring of Figure 2; Figure 5 shows a side view of a hand on which is threaded a ring of Figure 2 and arranged vis-à-vis an initialization device of Figure 1; Fig. 6 shows an operating diagram of an initialization device of Fig. 1; Fig. 7 shows an operating diagram of a ring of Fig. 2; Figure 8 schematically shows an identification system according to one embodiment. FIG. 9 schematically shows an identification system according to another embodiment. Detailed Description of Embodiments FIG. 1 shows a top view of an identification system initialization device.

An initialization device 1 has a fingerprint reading surface 2 for receiving the hand of a user whose fingerprints are to be read. This reading surface 2 comprises for this purpose a plurality of impression sensors 3. A hand positioning zone 4 diagrammatically represented in dashed lines in FIG. 1. The hand positioning zone 4 can be represented physically on the reading surface. 2 to indicate the location on which the user must affix his own hand 5 (see Figure 5). The impression sensors 3 are distributed on the reading surface 2 at the end of the positioning zones of the fingers 6. These impression sensors 3 are of any type adapted to the impression reading, for example of the type of those described in FR2755526. The initialization device 1 further comprises a connector 7, for example a metal connector 7. This connector 7 is housed in a groove 8 provided on the reading surface 2. The groove 8 is disposed on a positioning zone of a finger 6. The groove 8 is at a distance from the impression sensor 20 3 of said finger positioning zone such that a ring slid on the phalanx of the finger comes in correspondence of the groove when the tip of the phalangette is in correspondence of the sensor. In Figure 1, the groove 8 is disposed on the positioning zone of the major of the hand of the user. The connector 7 is intended to cooperate with an identification ring 9 described below with reference to FIG. 2. The relative position of the connector 7 of the initialization device 1 and the impression sensors 3 make it physically impossible that an identification ring 9 threaded with a finger can be connected to the connector 7 of the initialization device 1 while the finger of another hand than the one carrying the identification ring 9 would be in contact with the fingerprint sensor 30 3 corresponding to the finger bearing the identification ring 9. Consequently, the finger bearing the identification ring 9 is necessarily the one in contact with the corresponding impression sensor 3 of the initialization device 1.

In order to further reinforce the security of the system, it is possible to provide an embodiment in which the initialization device comprises a hoop 99 which can be closed around the user's finger bearing the ring 9 cooperating with the device. connector 7. Closure of the rollbar is then an additional condition to the transmission of an identification code by the initialization device to the connector of the ring. This embodiment reinforces the guarantee that the finger in contact with the fingerprint sensor 3 is the one carrying the identification ring 9 cooperating with the connector 7 of the initialization device 1. The initialization device 1 comprises a system 2. For example, the reading surface 2 is connected to a control module making it possible to process the data transmitted by the fingerprint sensors 3 and controlling the data transmission via the connector 7. In one embodiment, the initialization device and its control module cooperate with a computer to which the initialization device is connected. Preferably, the initialization device 1 comprises an ignition button (not shown) or any other device enabling the initialization device 1 to be turned on or off. Figure 1 shows a reading surface for receiving the hand 5 (see Figure 5) left of a user. It is clear, however, that the reading surface 20 may also be intended to receive the right hand (5) of the user. Similarly, it is clear that the groove 8 can be arranged at any finger of the schematic hand 4 and therefore that the identification ring 9 can be worn on any finger of the hand 5 (see Figure 5) of the user. FIG. 2 represents a sectional view of an identification ring 9.

Such an identification ring 9 is intended to be threaded to a finger of the user's hand. The identification ring 9 advantageously comprises a ring 10 surmounted by a receptacle for electronic components. The identification ring 9 thus comprises, housed in the receptacle for electronic components, a status indicator 11, a battery 12, a wireless communication interface 13, a microcontroller 14. The identification ring also comprises a device In a preferred embodiment, the data storage device 15 is incorporated in the microcontroller 14. However, the data storage device may also be a dedicated component. The status indicator 11 is for example a diode lit according to the state of the ring 9, as will be explained below with reference to FIG. 4. The battery 12 supplies all of the electronic components of FIG. the identification ring 9. The wireless communication interface 13 is for example a Bluetooth transmitter / receiver. Such a Bluetooth transmitter / receiver can accommodate in the identification ring 9 a transmitter / receiver without contact that is small, low energy consumption and economical. The microcontroller 14 is adapted to manage the various electronic components of the identification ring 9. The identification ring 9 optionally includes an on / off button 79 which makes it possible to turn on or turn off the identification ring, ie that the battery 12 supplies the components of the identification ring 9 or not. The ring 10 further comprises on an outer face a connector 16 complementary to the connector 7 of the initialization device 1. This connector 16 of the ring 10 is for example a metal connector 16. The connector 16 is complementary to the connector 7 of the initialization device 1, for example in the form of male / female metal connectors. The ring 10 also has on an internal surface a contact sensor with the skin 17. This contact sensor 17 is for example a capacitive sensor. Such a capacitive sensor may extend partially on the inner surface of the ring 10. Advantageously, the capacitive sensor develops over the entire periphery of the inner surface of the ring 10 in order to increase the reliability of the contact sensor 17 .

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the identification ring 9 in which all of the electronic components of the identification ring 9, i.e., the components housed in the electronic component receptacle as well as the contact sensor 17 and connector 16 are connected to microcontroller 14. The microcontroller controls and ensures the connection between all the electronic components of the identification ring 9. FIG. 4 represents a state diagram of the ring of FIG. Figure 2.

The identification ring 9 comprises three distinct states, an active and uninitialized state 18, an active and initialized state 19 and an inactive state 20. The status indicator 11 emits a distinct signal for each of these states, The diode emits for example an orange light in the uninitialized active state 18, a green light in the active and initialized state 19 and a red light in the inactive state 20. When the contact sensor 17 is in contact with the skin of a user, that is to say that the identification ring is threaded to the finger of the user, the ring is in an active state, ie the active state and not initialized 18 or the state On the contrary, when the contact sensor 17 is not in contact with the skin of the user, that is to say that the identification ring 9 is not threaded on the finger of said user, the identification ring is in its inactive state 20. When the identification ring 9 With an identification code stored in its data storage device 15, the ring is in the initialized state. In the initialized state, the wireless communication interface 13 is open and the identification ring 9 can receive via the wireless communication interface 13 identification requests. These identification requests are processed by the microcontroller 14 which transmits in response the identification code stored in the data storage device 15.

When the identification ring 9 does not have an identification code stored in its data storage device 15, the identification ring 9 is in the uninitialized state. In this uninitialized state, the wireless communication interface 13 is preferably closed, i.e., the identification ring 9 can not process an identification request. This closure of the wireless communication interface 13 can be achieved by any suitable means, for example by cutting off the communication capability of the wireless communication interface 13, cutting off communication between the wireless communication interface. 13 and the microcontroller 14 or by blocking the identification request processing capacity of the microcontroller 14. In the active and uninitialized state, the identification ring 9 can be initialized and receive an individual identification code. and personnel of the initialization device 1 via its connector 16. As long as the identification ring 9 is not threaded on the finger of a user, the identification ring 9 is in the inactive state 20, and therefore not initialized. As soon as the identification ring 9 is threaded onto the finger of a user, the identification ring becomes active and not initialized as represented by the arrow 57 of FIG. 4. The transition from the active and uninitialized state 18 in the active and initialized state 19, represented by the arrow 27 of FIG. 4, is done by cooperation of the identification ring 9 with the initialization device 1. As soon as the contact sensor 17 is no longer in contact with the skin of the user, that is to say when the identification ring 9 is removed from the finger of the user, the identification ring 9 10 goes into the inactive state 20, as shown by the arrow 35 of Figure 4. If the identification ring 9 was in the active state and initialized 19, the transition from the active state to the inactive state also causes the transition to the uninitialized state. The identification ring can not be in an inactive and initialized state. During the transition from the initialized state to the uninitialized state, the microcontroller 14 erases the identification code stored in the data storage device 15 of the identification ring 9. This erasure of the identification data assures that the identification ring 9 can not be removed from the finger of a user and then slipped on the finger of another user without the identification code is erased, ie that the identification ring 9 is initialized to using a user's fingerprints then fraudulently carried by another user. FIG. 5 represents a profile view of a hand on which is threaded a ring of FIG. 2 and disposed opposite an initialization device of FIG. 1. In order to associate a number of FIG. individual identification and personal identification ring 9, it must be in an active state, that is to say, slipped on the finger of the user. The user positions his hand 5 on the reading surface 2 of the initialization device so as to coincide on the one hand his fingers with the impression sensors 3 and, on the other hand, the connector 16 of the finger ring. identification 9 with the connector 7 of the initialization device 1. The cooperation between, on the one hand, the connector 16 of the identification ring 9 and the connector 7 of the initialization device 1 and, on the other hand, the fingers of the user and the impression sensors 3 is shown schematically in dotted lines in FIG. 5. When the fingers of the user are in contact with the impression sensors 3 and the connectors 22 and 16 cooperate, the initialization device 1 can transmit to the identification ring 9 an identification code associated with the fingerprints of the user wearing the identification ring 9. The method of transmitting the identification code from the device 5 'initiali 1 to the identification ring 9 is described in more detail with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. 6 represents an operating diagram of the initialization device 1 of FIG. 1. When it is put into operation, the device initialization 1 is lit 10 (step 21). During an initialization step (step 22), the initialization device 1 makes an identification code request. This request is transmitted to a remote server 58 (see FIG. 9) in which the identification codes are stored. The initialization device 1 tests the reception of the identification code (step 23). The initialization device 1 remains pending receipt of the identification code as long as said identification code is not received (step 24). The identification code may be specific to each initialization device 1. In an embodiment not shown, this identification code may also be directly registered in the initialization device 1, the latter then not having to make the request.

When the initialization device 1 receives the identification code (step 25), the initialization device 1 goes into a continuous control phase of the presence of a contact at its connector 7 (step 26) . In the absence of contact (step 28), the initialization device remains in the contact control phase (step 26). When the initialization device 1 detects a contact between its connector 7 and the connector 16 of an identification ring 9 (step 29), the initialization device 1 seeks to establish the connection with the identification ring 9 whose connector 16 is connected with its own connector 7 (step 30). If the connection can not be established between the initialization device 1 and the identification ring 9 by their respective connectors 7 and 16, this means that the ring is not a recognized authentication ring, that it is not active or defective. Whatever the reason, it is in any case not possible for the identification device to transmit an identification code since the connection does not work. The initialization device (step 32) remains waiting for a connection with an identification ring 9. If instead the connection is established (step 31), the identification ring 5 9 is necessarily active ie threaded on the finger of a user, since otherwise his connector would be inactive. The initialization device 1 must verify whether the person wearing the identification ring 9 is a person authorized to wear it or not. For this purpose, the initialization device 1 reads the fingerprints of the fingers in contact with the impression sensors 3 (step 34). The initialization device 1 10 then checks a database containing fingerprint records of the authorized persons (step 35). If the initialization device 1 does not find in the database a record corresponding to the fingerprints read by the fingerprint sensors 3 (step 36), this means that the fingerprints read do not correspond to the fingerprints of a person. authorized to wear the identification ring 9. The initialization device 1 can then read the fingerprints again and search again in database (step 37). In an improvement, a maximum number of attempts to read fingerprints can be set (step 38). If the maximum number of attempts to read fingerprints is reached, an initialization error message is issued (step 39). This error message is transmitted for example by displaying an error message on a display screen or by an audible signal. In an embodiment not shown, the initialization device comprises one or more diodes whose ignition and ignition color indicate the number of attempts already made and / or the error message. If the fingerprints read by the fingerprint sensors 3 correspond to a record of the database (step 40), the initialization device 1 transmits to the identification ring 9 an identification code (step 41). A message informing that the initialization is complete is then issued by the initialization device 1 (step 42). The identification ring 9 then goes into the initialized state as represented by the arrow 27 of FIG. 4. Thus, in order to transmit the identification code to the identification ring 9, the initialization device must simultaneously detect on the one hand that the finger of the user is in contact with the impression sensor 3 so as to allow reading of the fingerprints of the user by the initialization device and, secondly, that the connector 16 of the identification ring 9 is correctly associated with the connector 7 of the initialization device 1 so as to allow the communication between the initialization device 1 and the identification ring 9. Moreover, the connector 7 has a dual function: on the one hand, it verifies the association of the identification ring 9 worn on the finger of the user in contact with the impression sensor 3 and, on the other hand, it allows the transmission of the identification code d From the initialization device 1 to the ring 9. In one embodiment, it is possible for these two functions to be provided by two separate contacts or connectors. Fig. 7 shows an operation diagram of a ring of Fig. 2. In the case of an identification ring 9 having a switch, the identification ring must be turned on to operate (step 43). When lit, the identification ring 9 is by default in an uninitialized inactive state. The identification ring 9 continuously checks for the presence of contact between the skin of the user and the skin contact sensor (step 44). As long as the identification ring is not threaded to the user's finger (step 45), the identification ring 9 remains inactive and uninitialized (step 46). Similarly, as soon as the identification ring 9 in its active state is removed from the user's finger, it is switched into the inactive and uninitialized state. The identification ring 9 then remains pending its activation (step 47). When the identification ring 9 is threaded to the user's finger (step 48), the identification ring 9 is switched to its uninitialized active state (step 49). Similarly, the identification ring 9 remains in its active state, initialized or not, as long as it remains threaded to the finger of the user, the contact being constantly checked by the contact sensor. When the identification ring 9 is in an active state, an initialized state check is performed (step 50). If the identification ring 9 is in an initialized state (step 51) it tests (step 52) the receipt of an identification request. As long as no request for identification is received by the identification ring 9, the identification ring 9 remains waiting for such a request for identification while checking that the ring remains on the finger of the user (step 53). When the identification ring 9 detects the receipt of an identification request in this active and initialized state (step 54), then the identification ring 9 transmits the identification code stored in its storage device 15 in response on request (step 55). Once the identification code has been transmitted, the identification ring remains waiting for a new request and continues to control contact with the skin (step 80). If, in its active state, the identification ring 9 is not initialized (step 56), it remains waiting for initialization. For this, the identification ring 9 continuously tests the detection of a contact between its connector 16 and the connector 7 of the initialization device 1 (step 58). As long as no contact between the connectors 7 and 16 is detected (step 59), the identification ring 9 remains in the uninitialized state and waiting for this contact while continuing to check the contact with 15 the skin. As soon as the identification ring 9 detects a contact between its connector 16 and the connector 7 of the initialization device 1 (step 60), the identification ring 9 verifies the presence of a communication between its connector 16 and the connector 7 of the initialization device 1, ie that data can be exchanged via the connectors 7 and 16 (step 61). Preferably, the communication between the initialization device 1 and the identification ring 9 is carried out according to a protocol including the use of keys, coding / decoding mechanisms, unique identifiers, integrity checks or any other means. other means for ensuring the authenticity of the initialization device 1 and the identification ring 9. If the communication between the connectors 7 and 16 is not established (step 62), the ring of identification 9 remains waiting for a contact allowing communication. If the communication between the connectors 7 and 16 is established (step 65), the identification ring remains waiting for the reception of the identification code 30 (step 66). If this identification code is not received (step 67), then the ring issues an initialization error message (step 68), for example in the form of an audible alarm. If the identification ring 9 receives the identification code (step 69), the microcontroller 14 stores this identification code in the data storage device 15 and the identification ring 9 is switched in the state initialized asset (step 70). In one embodiment, the identification code received by the identification ring is processed by the microcontroller to generate a new identification code corresponding to the wearer of the identification ring 9. The generation of a code identification by the identification ring 9 which is distinct from the identification code transmitted by the initialization device 1 provides an additional degree of security by avoiding that a device other and less secure than the ring can receive the code d identification of the initialization device 1 and use it fraudulently. Figure 8 schematically shows an identification system according to one embodiment. In this embodiment, a door 71 is provided with an identity control device 72. The identity control device 72 issues an identification request to any person wishing to pass the door 71. The control device identity 72 comprises for this purpose a transmitter / receiver (not shown) of any type adapted to issue an identification request and to receive an identification code, for example a simple electrical connector or a wireless transmitter / receiver. The identity control device 72 also includes a memory in which a database is stored. This database comprises a plurality of records, each record corresponding to an identification code authorizing the passage of the door 71. The database has preferably been initialized and indicated on the identification codes authorized to pass the door. 71 when the identity check device 25 is put into service. When a user wearing an identification ring 9 wishes to pass through this door, he puts his identification ring 9 into communication in the active and initialized state with the identity control device 72. The transmission of the code of identification can be performed for example by connecting the connector 16 or 30 of the communication interface 13 of the identification ring 9 with the connector of the identity control device 72. When the identification ring 9 receives the request of identification of the identity control device 72, it transmits in response to this request the identification code stored in its data storage device 15 to the identity control device 72. The identity control device 72 then checks in its memory (not shown) whether the received code allows the passage of the door 71 or not. In order to further improve the security level, it is possible to provide the identification ring 9 with a serial number or a unique identifier stored permanently in the identification ring 9. This serial number or unique identifier is associated with the identification code in the memory of the identity control device 72 and in the database containing the fingerprint records of the initialization device 1.

When the initialization device 1 transmits the identification code, it first verifies that the read fingerprints are stored in a record of the database and that this record also includes the serial number or unique identifier of the ring. The initialization device 1 transmits the identification code to the identification ring 9 only if a record of the database includes both the fingerprints read and the serial number or unique identifier of the identification ring 9 in contact with its connector 7. Similarly, when the user puts in communication his identification ring 9 and the identity control device 72, the ring of identification 20 transmits to the identity control device 72 both the identification code and its serial number or unique identifier. The identification control device 72 then verifies that the identification code received is the serial number of the identification ring 9 or its unique identifier are stored in the same record of the database stored in memory of the device. Identity check 72. Figure 9 schematically shows an identification system according to another embodiment. In this other embodiment, the identification ring 9 is paired to a cellular telephone 73 by Bluetooth. This embodiment allows the use of the cell phone 73 paired with the identification ring 9 as an interface with the different devices requiring identification. This embodiment allows the use of Bluetooth technology in the identification ring 1, offering the possibility of achieving a small wireless transmitter / receiver, 3022663 18 low-cost and economic, while avoiding having to match the identification ring 9 to all devices that may require an identity check. The communication between the cellular telephone 73 and the identification ring 9 may be performed using a public key / private key mechanism. The association between the cellular telephone 73 and the identification ring may be permanent, for example by code association in the factory. Thus, when the owner of the identification ring 9 uses his cell phone 73 to make a recording for boarding an aircraft using an airline registration system 74, the system of airline registration issues an identification request 75 to finalize the registration. The cellular telephone 73 receives this identification request and transmits it (arrow 76) by Bluetooth to the identification ring 9. If the identification ring is in the active and initialized state, it transmits (arrow 77) the code The cellular telephone 73 thus completes the recording by transmitting (arrow 78) to the airline registration system 74 the identification code received or in the form of an identification code stored in its data storage device 15 to the cellular telephone 73. checking the validity of the received code itself. In this embodiment, the identification system further comprises the server 58. The server 58 contains the database containing the records corresponding to the fingerprints of the users. This database stored on the server has for example been initialized and filled in the content of its records beforehand. The initialization device 1 is connected to this server 58 and receives, during its initialization, the identification code. In addition, the initialization device 1 consults the database of the server 25 when it verifies that the database comprises the fingerprints read by the impression sensors 3. The identification code transmitted by the ring is checked. by the cellular telephone 73 or directly by the airline registration system 74 having issued the identification request. In another embodiment, the identification code corresponding to the fingerprints read by the fingerprint sensors 3 is generated during the initialization of the identification ring 9. This identification code is generated by the device. 1 or the server 58. The server 58 is connected to all the devices that can issue an identification request such as the gate 71 of FIG. 8 or the server of the company registration system. For example, the identification code is generated after the initialization device 1 has verified that the database has a record corresponding to the fingerprints read by the impression sensors 3. The code identification thus generated is transmitted to the identification ring 9 and the server 58. The server 58 stores the generated code in a dedicated database or in the recording cor corresponding to the fingerprints read by the fingerprint sensors 3. During an identification request, the device having sent the identification request to the identification ring 9, ie the door 71 or the cellular telephone 73, consults the server 58 to check the validity of the received identification code. The connection between the server 58 and the elements of the identification system, i.e. the initialization device 1, the door 71, the cellular telephone 73, the airline registration system 74, etc. for example, via the Internet or any other communication network. This embodiment adds an additional degree of security since a new code is generated at each initialization of the identification ring 9. Thus, even in the event of piracy of the identification code, the frequency with which the identification code is generated, for example of the order of an initialization of the identification ring per day, to limit the risk of having its identification code hacked. Moreover, a pirated code is not usable long in this case. Advantageously, this control is doubled with the presence of a serial number or a unique identifier associated with the identification ring and a record in the database. It is possible to provide a remote code initialization device, for example a web service on which the user wishing to initialize his identification ring connects to define the different identification parameters that he wishes to use. Thus, the user can define the possible uses of his identification code such as payments, access to secure premises, connections to websites or other. The connection of the user to the web service is for example using an identifier and a password that correspond to the user and that he may have defined beforehand.

In an embodiment not shown, the initialization device is connected locally to a computer, for example via a USB connection. The user uses this computer to connect to the web service under his account using his username and password. The user must then place his hand on the reading surface 2 of the initialization device 1. The web service then checks the correspondence between the fingerprint read by the initialization device and the identity of the account holder. If the web service detects the correspondence between the fingerprints read by the initialization device and the registered account holder, the web service then sends an identification code to the initialization device 1. This identification code received by the initialization device can then either be directly transmitted to the identification ring 9, or be used to generate a new identification code to be transmitted to the identification ring 9. The devices requiring an identification such as the door 71 or the registration system of the airline 74 can interrogate the web service 15 to find out who corresponds to the code sent to them by the identification ring 9. Advantageously, the association in the web service between on the one hand the fingerprints and, on the other hand, the identification and the password of the user is established by a competent authority with regard to the authentication concerned. It may be an employee of the bank, the telecommunication operator who uses or provides the service, a sworn officer when the authentication must acquire legal or other value. In an embodiment not shown, the initialization device further comprises a security device type digital code to enter a keypad, password to enter a touch screen or any other device to add an extra degree of security when initializing the ring. Although the invention has been described in connection with several particular embodiments, it is quite obvious that it is in no way limited thereto and that it comprises all the technical equivalents of the means described and their combinations if These are within the scope of the invention. The use of the verb "to include", "to understand" or "to include" and its conjugated forms does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps other than those set out in a claim. The use of the indefinite article "un" or "un" for an element or step does not exclude, unless otherwise stated, the presence of a plurality of such elements or steps. In the claims, any reference sign in parentheses can not be interpreted as a limitation of the claim. 5

Claims (13)

REVENDICATIONS1. Identification system comprising: an initialization device (1) comprising a fingerprint reader (2), a control module and a reception area (6) for receiving a finger from a user, the receiving zone comprising a sensor (3) of the fingerprint reader and a connector (7), an individual portable ring (9) to be threaded to the user's finger, the ring comprising: o a connector (16) complementary to the connector of the initialization device and located on an outer face of the ring, o a control module (14), o a data storage device (15), o a d code communication interface identification (13), o a skin contact sensor (17) located on an inner face of the ring so as to be in contact with the skin of the user when the ring is threaded on the finger of the user, the control module of the ring switching the ring into an active state e (18) when the contact sensor is in contact with the user's skin and in a deactivated state (20) when the contact sensor is not in contact with the user's skin, a database in which fingerprint data are stored, the initialization device being connected to the database, wherein the control module of the initialization device is adapted to transmit to the connector of the ring an identification code in response to, simultaneously: 3022663 '23 - reading by the sensor of the fingerprint reader device of a fingerprint corresponding to a record of the database, the presence of a connection between the connector of the ring and the connector of the initialization device, and - the presence of the activated state of the ring, and in which the control module of the ring in the activated state, in response to the receipt of the code of identification, is suitable for storing in the data storage device the identification code received by its connector and able to open the communication interface, the communication interface in the open state being able to receive an identification request and to transmit the identification code stored in the data storage device of the ring in response to the identification request, the control module of the ring being further able to detect the loss of contact of the contact sensor with the user's skin and able to close the communication interface and erase the identification code stored in the data storage device of the ring in response to the detection of the loss of contact of the contact sensor with the skin of the user. An identification system according to claim 1, wherein the connector 20 of the initialization device and the connector of the ring are electrical contact connectors. 3. Identification system according to one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising an identification code generator connected to the control module of the initialization device and able to generate an identification code, the code 25 identification transmitted by the control module of the initialization device being generated by the generator. 4. The identification system according to claim 3, wherein the identification code generator is connected to the database, the identification code generator being able to transmit the generated identification code to the database. for storing said generated identification code in a database record in association with fingerprint data which corresponds to the fingerprint read by the fingerprint reader sensor. An identification system according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a ring identifier is permanently stored in the data storage device of the ring, said ring identifier also being stored in a record of the database in association with fingerprint data corresponding to the fingerprints of the user, the control module of the initialization device being able to transmit to the connector of the ring an identification code in response to, simultaneously: 10 the reading by the sensor of the fingerprint reader of a fingerprint corresponding to a record of the database, the presence of a connection between the connector of the ring and the connector of the initialization device, the presence of the activated state of the ring, and the presence in the data storage device of the ring code ring corresponding to the code associated ring in the database registration fingerprints read by the fingerprint sensor sensor. 20 6. Identification system according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the communication interface of the ring is a transmission / reception device without contact. An identification system according to claim 6, wherein the non-contact transmitting / receiving device is a radio device. 25 The identification system of claim 7, wherein the transmitting / receiving device is a Bluetooth device. 9. Identification system according to one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a client device comprising a communication interface capable of sending an identification request to the ring and adapted to receive the transmitted identification code. by the ring in response to the identification request. 3022663 '25 An identification system according to claim 9, further comprising a server (58) in which the database is stored, the server being connected to the client device and the initialization device via a communication network. 11. An identification system according to claim 10, further comprising a web service connected to the server, the database records further comprising web service access data, said web service access data comprising identification data and an associated password, the web service comprising a means of access to the initialization device adapted to control the correspondence of the fingerprints read by the fingerprint sensor and the fingerprint data stored in the database, or the initialization device comprising a means of access to the web service capable of performing this control. 12. A method of operating an identification system according to one of claims 1 to 11 comprising: - receiving on the fingerprint reader a finger of a user on which is threaded the ring so said finger is in contact with the sensor of the fingerprint reader and that the connector of the ring is connected to the connector of the initialization device 20 detect the activated status of the ring (30,44), detect the connection between the connector of the ring and the connector of the initialization device (26), read the fingerprint in contact with the sensor of the fingerprint reader (34), detect a correspondence between the fingerprint read by the fingerprint sensor and a database record (35), - transmit an identification code from the initialization device to the ring via the connector (41), 30 - store the identifier code in the data storage device of the ring (70), activate the communication interface of the ring to make available to a third-party device the identification code, and monitor the persistence of the contact between the ring and the skin. The method of operation of claim 12 wherein the identification system is according to claim 5, further comprising: selecting in the database a record including fingerprint data that corresponds to the fingerprints read by the sensor of the fingerprint reader, detecting a match between the ring code stored in the ring data storage device and the ring code stored in the selected record.