JP2006053768A - Fingerprint apparatus and fingerprint method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a fingerprint input apparatus including an image sensor that responds to scattered light emanating from a finger. <P>SOLUTION: The scattered light is generated inside a finger having a fingerprint pattern in accordance with external light. The sensor may be a two-dimensional image sensor made of a large number of light-receiving elements arranged in a two-dimensional array or a one-dimensional sensor made of a large number of light-receiving elements arranged in a line-type array. In the latter case, the fingerprint is input by swiping the finger across the image sensor and reconstructing the fingerprint image. The fingerprint input apparatus is used to control use of a variety of devices including electronic devices such as cellular telephones and personal computers, and access to buildings, rooms, safes and the like. The fingerprint input apparatus makes possible the elimination of personal identification numbers (PINs) and signatures in a variety of transactions. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates generally to fingerprint devices and fingerprint methods using fingerprint input devices that can directly read fingerprint images, and more particularly to personal identification / security systems and methods using such fingerprint input devices. .

  The present invention is a continuation-in-part of commonly filed US patent application Ser. No. 09 / 494,506 filed by Teruyuki Higuchi on January 31, 2000, “Fingerprint Input Appratus”. The priority based on is claimed in this application.

  In a conventional fingerprint input device, light is applied to the skin surface of a fingertip at a predetermined angle using an optical component such as a lens and a prism or an optical fiber. The light reflected from the skin surface is converged to output a fingerprint image. In another conventional fingerprint input device, the device emits light toward a portion of the finger other than the finger pad and detects light emanating from the inside of the finger. This device has special components between the finger and the image sensor that selectively reflects the light emitted from the finger. Alternatively, instead of obtaining a fingerprint image using an optical system, a method of directly inputting a fingerprint image using a capacitance has been proposed.

  In US Pat. No. 6,414,297 to Sasaki (corresponding to Japanese Published Patent No. 1999, 259638), a two-dimensional photosensor is provided on a surface light source. The surface light source emits light upward toward the finger pad. Light reflected from the surface of the finger is detected by a two-dimensional photosensor on the semiconductor layer. By the emission of light, pairs of electrons and holes are accumulated in the channel region of the semiconductor layer, and a drain current flows. The resulting image has bright ridges and dark depressions. A transparent conductive layer is placed between the two-dimensional photosensor and the finger. Although the static electricity can cause malfunction of the two-dimensional photosensor, the transparent conductive layer discharges the static electricity.

  Teng US Pat. No. 6,381,347 uses a prism provided between the fingerprint and the image sensor to detect light scattered by the raised portion of the finger pad. The light emitted from the light source hits the scattering surface and is internally scattered in the prism. A relatively large portion of incident light strikes the image surface at an angle that is less than the critical angle. Incident light impinging on the fingerprint dent substantially passes through the imaging plane. The light striking the fingerprint ridge is substantially scattered, resulting in scattered light, which is detected by the image sensor through the lens assembly. The resulting image has bright ridges and dark depressions.

  Fujiida's Japanese Published Patent No. 1996/180173 discloses an apparatus having a planar light source, an edge sensor and optical components. The light emitted from the planar light source passes through the image sensor and reaches the optical component. The optical component gives an inclination to the path of light emitted from the planar light source. The tilted light hits the finger pad, resulting in reflected light. The reflected light passes through the optical component and reaches the image sensor.

  Kato's Japanese Published Patent No. 2815883 discloses an apparatus for detecting light that comes from the inside of the finger rather than the light reflected from the surface of the finger. This device has a light guide plate and LEDs. The LED emits light toward the side portion of the finger. Part of the light enters the finger and reaches the interface between the finger and the light guide plate. The light emitted from the hollow portion passes through the light guide plate and disappears. The light emitted from the raised portion propagates through the interior of the light guide plate while repeating total internal reflection, and reaches the detector. The resulting image has bright ridges and dark depressions.

  Tomita's Japanese published patent No. 171137 discloses an apparatus for detecting light emanating from the inside of a finger by means of an optical fiber plate (FOP). The light source irradiates light on the fingernail side downward. Light emanating from the inside of the finger is received by the FOP. The FOP includes a plurality of optical fibers each including a core, a cladding, and an absorber. The edge surface of the FOP is shaped to have an inclination of the angle θ. The angle θ is carefully selected so that incident light entering from the air in the hollow portion is not totally internally reflected at the interface between the core and the clad and is absorbed by the absorber regardless of the incident angle. Since the finger has a reflection index different from that of air, a part of the incident light entering from the raised portion undergoes total internal reflection, propagates inside the FOP, and then reaches the CCD sensor. The resulting image has bright ridges and dark depressions.

  Shikai's Japanese published patent No. 300930 discloses an apparatus similar to that of Tomita. Shikai's device has an irradiating means and a bundle of optical fibers. This irradiation means emits light toward the fingertip. The bundle of optical fibers has an inclined incident surface. The inclination angle of the entrance surface is selected so that light emitted from the raised portion passes through the optical fiber and does not pass light from the recessed portion. The resulting image has bright ridges and dark depressions.

  The first category of prior art documents discloses a device that detects light that is emitted toward the finger pad and reflected from its surface. Sasaki, Teng, and Fujiida documents fall into this first category. In the second category, light is emitted toward a portion of the finger other than the finger pad, and light emitted from the inside of the finger is detected. Kato, Tomita, and Shikai documents fall into the second category.

  In these conventional fingerprint input devices, when optical components such as lenses and prisms, or optical fibers are used, the size of these optical components and the space for their mounting location is required, resulting in the thickness of the device. And the size was getting bigger. Furthermore, such optical components are relatively expensive and the device cannot be manufactured at low cost. When a fingerprint image is optically processed using such optical components, the resulting image tends to be distorted.

  Dickinson U.S. Patent No. 6,016,355 discloses a transparent non-conductive layer provided over a sensor. The device disclosed in Dickinson's document measures the change in capacitance for parasitic capacitance caused by the uneven surface of the finger pad. An insulating material such as glass or plastic is placed on the sensor as a detection surface.

  Fujiida U.S. Pat. No. 6,055,324 discloses a capacitive input type fingerprint input device. Fingerprint input device detects signals from mesh or comb-shaped electrodes that emit high frequencies toward the fingers, multiple signal detection electrodes to form capacitance between the electrodes and the fingers, and each signal detection electrode Switching means for continuous connection to the circuit.

  The method of directly inputting a fingerprint image using electrostatic capacity is easily affected by external static electricity, and it is difficult to obtain high sensitivity.

US Patent No. 6,636,620 to Hoshino discloses a personal identification system for a client terminal that communicates with a server. In this system, a client terminal user presses his / her fingerprint on the fingerprint sensor and places his / her ID card in a card reader. The IC card stores the cardholder's personal information, including information about the cardholder's fingerprint and ID number card. The client terminal includes an authenticator that issues an authentication signal if the detected fingerprint information of the client terminal user matches the stored fingerprint information of the cardholder. When the authentication signal is generated, the client terminal transmits the personal information stored in the card holder to the server. The server sends an authentication signal to the client terminal if the personal information sent by the cardholder matches the personal information stored in the server database. When the authentication signal is received, the client terminal user is permitted to access the server computer.
US Pat. No. 6,414,297 US Pat. No. 6,381,347 Japan published patent No. 180173 in 1996 Japanese published patent No. 281583 Japanese published patent No. 171137 Japanese published patent No. 300930 US Pat. No. 6,016,355 US Pat. No. 6,055,324 US Pat. No. 6,636,620 US Pat. No. 6,289,114

  Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved fingerprint input device for use in a fingerprint device and method.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus, device and method using the fingerprint input device of the present invention for secure transactions.

  Another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus, a device, and a method using the fingerprint input device of the present invention for ensuring security when entering a building, room, locker, display case, and vehicle.

  Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus, device and method using the fingerprint input device of the present invention to provide secure access to cash, documents and valuables, and in the event of an emergency, police Or provide a way to notify security staff.

  Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus, device and method using the fingerprint input device of the present invention to control or restrict access to communication functions, internet websites or television channels. That is.

  Yet another object of the present invention is to provide fingerprint devices and methods that do not require personal identification numbers (PINs) or signatures in commercial transactions.

  According to the present invention, there is provided a fingerprint input device in which scattered light is generated inside a finger having a fingerprint pattern according to external light. This fingerprint pattern is composed of a raised portion and a depressed portion, and the two-dimensional image sensor is composed of a large number of light receiving elements arranged in a two-dimensional array, and an image of the fingerprint pattern is input to the light receiving surface of the light receiving element. The light receiving element that substantially contacts the raised part detects the bright part where scattered light emitted from the finger reaches with a high density as the raised part, and the light receiving element corresponding to the depressed part through the space The dark part where the scattered light from the light reaches at a low density is detected as a hollow part.

  The basic structure of a fingerprint input device can be miniaturized by reducing the area of a two-dimensional image sensor so that it approaches a one-dimensional or line-type sensor, in which case the fingerprint is placed over the sensor. It is swiped and thus the read fingerprint is restored.

  Since the fingerprint input device is simple and small, it can be applied to various devices and devices. For example, the fingerprint input device of the present invention can be used with a cell phone or personal computer to control such a device or device and to be used for user identification for secure online financial transactions. Similarly, the fingerprint input device of the present invention can be used in place of a personal identification number (PIN) for conducting financial transactions using an automated teller machine (ATM) and can be used as a credit card. When using, signature is no longer necessary. More specifically, the use of the fingerprint input device of the present invention eliminates the need for a PIN or other identification card, card or other identification device. Thus, by using the fingerprint input device of the present invention, the need and cost of a keypad to enter a building, room, or vehicle is eliminated. Similarly, combination locks for accessing safes, lockers and the like are not necessary.

  In the application of a fingerprint input device for restricting boarding of a vehicle such as an individual car, the fingerprints of a plurality of owners / drivers of the vehicle are registered, and each of these owners / drivers gets on the vehicle. Can be used. In such cases, for each of these owners / drivers, the seat and mirror positions stored in the memory are automatically accessed and the fingerprint is determined to be that of the corresponding owner / driver of the vehicle. Then, it is used to adjust the seat and mirror.

  Permits access to cash, securities or valuables when access to cash, securities or valuables is restricted, such as cash registers or POS terminals, safes or jewelry cases Two fingerprints are registered for each individual. Typically, only one fingerprint is used to open a cash register or point-of-sale (POS) terminal, safe or jewelry case, etc., but in an emergency such as attempted burglary, a second fingerprint is used, Alarms are automatically sent to the police or other security staff.

  The fingerprint input device of the present invention can be incorporated into a telephone, personal computer keyboard, mouse or other input device, or remote control device to limit access to communications functions, Internet websites, or television channels. be able to. For example, in a company telephone, long distance calls can be restricted to those authorized. Similarly, access to selected websites can be restricted. When incorporated into a television remote control, the selected television channel can be limited. In this latter case, a “parent guide” of TV ratings can be used to define the restrictions. When a personal computer is connected to a local area network (LAN), using a fingerprint input device, an individual using the personal computer can initiate a login procedure.

  These and other objects, aspects and advantages will be better understood from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment with reference to the drawings.

  Referring to the drawings, and more specifically to FIG. 1, a fingerprint input device according to a first embodiment of the present invention is shown. In FIG. 1, reference numeral 11 indicates a two-dimensional image sensor (hereinafter referred to as an image sensor) that two-dimensionally detects light intensity based on a three-dimensional pattern on the skin surface 3 of the finger 2, and 12 indicates a fingerprint pattern. An image processor that performs image processing on the output from the image sensor 11 to generate, and 13 extracts features of the fingerprint pattern generated by the image processor 12 and compares the extracted features with a predetermined reference pattern This means a pattern recognition unit that recognizes a pattern.

  The image sensor 11 includes a substrate 16 and a large number of light receiving elements 1 arranged in a two-dimensional matrix on the substrate 16. A two-dimensional image is formed based on the output from each light receiving element 1. As shown in FIG. 2, in order to protect the light receiving surface 1 </ b> A of each light receiving element 1, a transparent film 1 </ b> B including a glass transparent member is formed on the image sensor 11. The pitch of the light receiving elements 1 must be smaller than the pitch of the raised portions (convex portions) 4 or the recessed portions (recess portions) 5 of the skin surface 3. If the pitch of the light receiving elements 1 is 50 μm or less, an image having sufficient precision to perform pattern recognition can be obtained. As the image sensor 11, a CCD (Charged-Coupled Device) is used.

  In this embodiment, the scattered light emitted from the finger 2 is generated by the ambient light of the finger 2 without using a light source. The image processor 12 and the pattern recognition unit 13 construct the fingerprint recognition unit 10 and can be configured by a known circuit.

  As shown in FIG. 2, in order to recognize the skin surface 3 of the finger 2, the finger 2 is placed on the image sensor 11 so that the skin surface 3 is in contact with the transparent coating 1B. At this time, the raised portion 4 of the skin surface 3 comes into contact with the transparent coating 1 </ b> B of the image sensor 11. Scattered light from the inside of the finger 2 is directly received by the light receiving element 1 from the raised portion 4 via the transparent coating 1B.

  A space 6 is formed between the transparent coating 1 </ b> B and each recessed portion 5 of the skin surface 3. Scattered light exiting the finger 2 into the space 6 via the depression 5 is refracted and scattered at the interface between the skin and air and then diffused into the space. The amount of light reaching the light receiving element via the space 6 is greatly reduced. Some light reaching the transparent coating 1B is reflected on the surface of the transparent coating 1B due to the relationship between the incident angle on the transparent coating 1B and the air in the space 6 and the refractive index of the transparent coating 1B. To do. The light from the raised portion that directly contacts the transparent coating 1B is detected at a high density, and the light that reaches the recessed portion 5 through the space 6 is detected at a low density. Therefore, the raised portion 4 is detected as a bright portion, and the depressed portion 5 is detected as a dark portion.

  As described above, the light receiving element 1 in which the light receiving surface 1A is almost in contact with the raised portion 4 detects, as the raised portion 4, a bright portion where scattered light from the inside of the finger 2 reaches with high density. The light receiving element 1 in which the light receiving surface 1 </ b> A corresponds to the recessed portion 5 and the space 6 detects the dark portion where the scattered light from the inside of the finger 2 arrives at a low density as the recessed portion 5.

  According to this embodiment, optical components such as lenses and prisms or optical fibers are not required. Compared with the conventional structure, it is possible to remove restrictions on the physical size and the mounting position due to the size of the optical component itself. For example, an inconspicuous small-sized fingerprint input device having a size that can be incorporated into an IC card necessary for confirmation of the card owner can be implemented. Since it is not necessary to perform optical processing by an optical component, it is not necessary to perform special image correction processing to obtain a distortion-free fingerprint image, thereby increasing the recognition rate of the fingerprint pattern.

  Referring to FIG. 3, the pair of light sources 14A and 14B may be configured to place an image sensor therebetween. A light source that emits near-infrared rays, for example, near-infrared LEDs can be used as the light sources 14A and 14B, and the thin film filter 15 that propagates near-infrared rays and reduces disturbance light such as visible light can be disposed. In this case, an image sensor that can receive near infrared rays must be selected as the image sensor 11. A general CCD image sensor can receive near infrared rays.

  According to this modification, disturbance light such as light from the fluorescent lamp and sunlight can be reduced, so that noise caused by the fluorescent lamp is reduced, and the fingerprint image is efficiently obtained even in an environment where many disturbance light components exist. Can be entered. The transparent coating 1 </ b> B can be configured by a coating having the function of the filter 15. In this case, the number of parts can be reduced.

  As described above, according to the present invention, optical components such as lenses and prisms, or optical fibers can be omitted. For this reason, compared with the conventional structure, restrictions on the physical size and its mounting position due to the size of the optical component itself can be eliminated. An inconspicuous small device can be mounted.

  Since it is not necessary to perform an optical process by the optical component, a distortion-free fingerprint image can be obtained without performing a special image correction process. The recognition rate of the fingerprint pattern can be improved.

  FIG. 4 shows a variation of the basic fingerprint input device according to the invention, including a specific application with limited space. According to this variant, the image sensor is reduced to one dimension and approximated to a one-dimensional image sensor 41, shown here as a 12 × 512 dot CCD image sensor. In this embodiment, the finger 42 is swiped (passed) over the image sensor 41 to generate a continuous raw image 43. This raw image is processed by a fingerprint recognition unit such as the fingerprint recognition unit 10 of FIG. 1 to restore a fingerprint image 44 for fingerprint recognition. An example of processing a raw image into a restored fingerprint image is disclosed in US Pat. No. 6,289,114 by Mayuet. The LED 45 can be provided near the image sensor 41 as in the embodiment shown in FIG.

  The basic image sensor shown in FIGS. 1-3, and the simplicity and economics of the variant shown in FIG. 4 and the accuracy of the fingerprint image provided by such a fingerprint input device, as described in more detail below, Various applications that were impossible are possible.

  The modification of the basic invention shown in FIG. 4 is particularly advantageous when applied to, for example, the mobile phone shown in FIG. Such cell phones typically include a display area 52 and a keypad area 53. The particular type of mobile phone shown is a so-called flip-type that includes two hinged parts, one containing a display area 52 and the other containing a keypad area 53, The invention can also be applied to other types of mobile phones. Due to the ever-increasing miniaturization, the usable area on mobile phones is very limited, so even if this type of image sensor itself is very small and compact, it is generally shown in FIGS. There is not enough area in the type of image sensor. Therefore, the swipe-type image sensor of FIG. 4 is advantageously used for a mobile phone. In FIG. 5, a swipe type fingerprint input device 51 is conveniently incorporated at a position just below the keypad area 53 of the mobile phone. Other positions can also be used.

  The standard telephone shown in FIG. 6 can be provided with the fingerprint input device of the present invention in either the two-dimensional image sensor type shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 or the swipe type image sensor type shown in FIG. The phone shown in FIG. 6 is a desk type business phone that includes a display area 62, a keypad area 63, and a handset 64 for illustrative purposes only. In this illustrative example, a fingerprint input device according to the present invention is conveniently incorporated at 61 near the keypad area 63.

  The fingerprint input apparatus of the present invention can also be applied to the facsimile apparatus shown in FIG. 7, and in this case either the two-dimensional image sensor type shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 or the swipe type image sensor type shown in FIG. Good. The facsimile apparatus shown in FIG. 7 is merely for explanation. The facsimile machine includes a display area 72, a keypad area 73, and a handset 74. In this illustrative example, a fingerprint input device according to the present invention is conveniently incorporated at 71 above the keyboard pad area 73.

  FIG. 8 shows an example of a fingerprint input device incorporated in a personal computer (PC), which is a laptop PC in this case, but a desktop PC and a handheld PC can also be used. The PC has a display area 82 and a keyboard area 83. In this example, the fingerprint input device according to the present invention is incorporated at a position 81 in the keyboard area 83. Again, the fingerprint input device may be either the two-dimensional image sensor type of FIGS. 1 to 3 or the swipe type image sensor type of FIG. 4, with the latter type being preferred for handheld PCs. Another position of the fingerprint input device is on a cursor control device such as a mouse shown in FIG. In this illustrative example, a two button mouse is shown, but the invention is not limited to this particular type of mouse. In this example, the fingerprint input device of the present invention is placed at 91 just below the left mouse button on the mouse body. In this case as well, the fingerprint input device is the two-dimensional image sensor of FIGS. Either the type or the swipe image sensor type of FIG.

  The application examples of the fingerprint input device of the invention shown in FIGS. 5 to 9 can be used for various purposes. First, the use of the user's fingerprint identification can be used to limit the use of the device itself. Therefore, for example, in the case of the mobile phone shown in FIG. 5, the owner of the mobile phone can limit the use of the mobile phone only to the person himself / herself. This is done by first turning on the mobile phone and then entering the user's fingerprint to dial the number. Similar restrictions can be imposed in the case of the telephone shown in FIG. 6 and the facsimile machine shown in FIG. More practically, however, because such devices are typically used in offices, the limit can be a long distance call limit. The restrictions imposed by the user may be imposed on such computers because personal computers, particularly laptop computers or handheld computers such as those shown in FIG. 8, often encounter theft. For computers connected to a local area network (LAN), logging on to the network is by entering a fingerprint, not a password or other identification.

  In many applications, it is important to reliably identify an individual using a mobile phone that can be equipped with a wireless connection, or a portable device such as a laptop or handheld computer. FIG. 10 shows a mobile ID solution. In this application example, initial registration 1001 is performed in which an individual's fingerprint is scanned and a picture is taken. The scanned fingerprint is converted into fingerprint data using, for example, an automatic fingerprint identification system (AFIS) of NEC Corporation and stored in the database 1002. Individuals so registered can be reliably identified later using a mobile phone 1003 equipped with a fingerprint input device according to the present invention as shown in FIG. When prompted to do so, the mobile phone user swipes the finger over the fingerprint input device and the scanned fingerprint information is sent to the AFIS computer 1004 accessing the database 1002. As a result, personal photos and identification data 1005 are displayed on the mobile phone display for personal identification to the relevant authorities, such as, for example, an airline ticket counter.

  Secure personal identification is also necessary for online financial transactions such as banking on the Internet. FIG. 11 shows a diagram of an internet banking transaction using a mobile phone or a PC. In this application example, the mobile phone 1101 and the PC 1102 are connected to the bank 1103 via the Internet 1104. Bank 1103 is connected to a central financial clearinghouse 1105 that includes a server 1106 and a database 1107. In order to conduct a financial transaction via the mobile phone 1101 or the PC 1102, the user is prompted by the bank 1103 to enter a fingerprint. Fingerprint data received by the bank 1103 is transmitted to the central financial clearing house 1105, where the server 1106 accesses the database 1107 to authenticate individuals who wish to conduct financial transactions. to decide. Upon confirming the personal authentication, the central financial clearinghouse 1105 gives the bank 1103 approval to conduct the financial transaction.

  In a similar situation, the financial transaction performed may be of a credit transaction using the card reader 1108 rather than the mobile phone 1101 or PC 1102. In this case, the credit card owner passes the credit card magnetic stripe through the card reader 1108. The reader is also equipped with a fingerprint input device according to the invention, where the credit card owner also inputs his / her fingerprint. Both credit card data and fingerprint data from the magnetic stripe are sent to the credit card clearing house 1109, which is the same as the financial clearing house 1105. It may be different. Upon receipt of the credit card and fingerprint information, the credit card clearinghouse accesses the database to determine whether the individual presenting the credit card is the true owner and so on. If so, determine if the credit limit has been exceeded. If the individual presenting the credit card is the true owner and the credit limit has not been exceeded, the credit card clearinghouse 1109 gives approval to proceed with the credit transaction. This application of the fingerprint input device according to the present invention has two distinct advantages. First, in credit card transactions, fraud is prevented by ensuring that the individual presenting the credit card is the card owner. Second, it eliminates the need for the credit card owner to sign manually for credit card usage records.

  The fingerprint input device of the present invention can also be used to restrict entry into a building, room or vehicle. FIG. 12 shows an example of a house entrance provided with the fingerprint input device of the present invention. Here, the fingerprint input device according to the present invention is placed on or near a door. The registered fingerprint that is recognized starts unlocking the door to allow entry. This application of the present invention can be used to control entry into a private house or large building, the main difference being the number of registered fingerprints that must be maintained in the database. In the former case, personal security is guaranteed. In the latter case, the security of the company or the government is guaranteed.

  FIG. 13 shows an example of a door of a room provided with the fingerprint device of the present invention. In this case, the room is a hotel room where the hotel guest also registers a fingerprint instead of a key or plastic card during registration at the hotel. This registration is temporary while the customer stays at the hotel. As shown in FIG. 13, when the fingerprint input device 1301 responds to the input fingerprint, the device communicates with the hotel server 1302 to determine whether the input fingerprint matches the fingerprint data on the file. If so, the door locking mechanism is released, allowing entry. When the customer's stay in the hotel ends, the fingerprint data on the customer's file is deleted on the hotel server 1302.

  FIG. 14 shows a door of an automobile provided with the fingerprint input device of the present invention. This application replaces the keypad input system that can be used in many automobiles today. In this application, each car owner / driver registers a fingerprint separately in a database maintained by the car's central processing unit (not shown). The database storage device is non-volatile to avoid losing information when the vehicle battery is disconnected. The fingerprint input device of the present invention not only enables the user to get in the automobile, but also enables the operation of the automobile. In this way, the couples who both drive the car are each recognized separately when they are allowed to ride and drive the car. Furthermore, in a car with a memory sheet and mirror position, when an individual is recognized for each husband and wife, the fingerprint input device of the present invention automatically adjusts the sheet and mirror for the recognized individual. To start.

  The fingerprint input device of the present invention has a number of applications in which the container can be adjusted to open upon recognition of a fingerprint authenticated individual. FIG. 15 shows such an example, and the safe is provided with the fingerprint input device according to the present invention. This eliminates the need for a lock such as a combination lock for safety. In addition, the safe can be used in a hotel room to allow customers to safely store valuables while absent from the room. As in the case of the hotel room door shown in FIG. 13, the fingerprint input device communicates with the hotel server, thereby enabling the safe to be temporarily used for the currently registered customer. Eliminates the need to enter a temporary PIN or combination for using the safe. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 16, a locker such as one that can be used in a health club can be equipped with a fingerprint input device according to the present invention. As in the case of the hotel room door shown in FIG. 13 and the safe shown in FIG. 15, the fingerprint input device 1601 on the locker can be connected to a central server 1602 that controls access to the locker. Locker assignments can be made on a daily, monthly, or yearly basis depending on contact with the individual using the locker.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram of an automated teller machine (ATM) equipped with a fingerprint input device according to the present invention. In this example, the ATM includes a fingerprint input device 1701, a card reader 1702, a display 1703 and a keypad 1704. The ATM operation is similar to the conventional ATM operation, but instead of entering a PIN, the individual making the transaction uses the fingerprint input device 1701 to enter a fingerprint. As shown in FIG. 18, in a similar manner, a terminal device in a bank can also be provided with a fingerprint input device according to the present invention. Instead of entering a code or PIN or passing a card or identification card, the terminal operator uses the fingerprint input device 1801 to enter a fingerprint. When the fingerprint data is reliably identified, the user can use the bank terminal device.

  The fingerprint input device according to the present invention also enables an alarm function. FIG. 19 shows an example of a jewelry case, and FIG. 20 shows an example of a point-of-sale (POS) terminal or cash register. In both examples, to register a person authorized to open a jewelry case or POS terminal, it is necessary to register two different fingerprints, for example the thumb and middle finger, but any two different fingerprints are used. obtain. In general, one of the fingers, for example the index finger, is used to allow access to the jewelry case or POS terminal. However, in the event of an emergency such as attempted robbery, the second finger is used to report to the police or other security staff.

  FIG. 21 shows another application of the fingerprint input device according to the invention, in this case a remote control device for a television receiver. Using the fingerprint input device of the present invention, a remote control device can be programmed to control access to various channels. Thus, for example, a TV parent's “parent guide” can be used to prohibit access to a particular channel, but access is granted to those who have fingerprints registered.

  A simple design and economical manufacture of a fingerprint input device according to the present invention enables such multiple fingerprint devices. Certain identification of individuals can now be done on a broad and economical scale that was not possible before.

  While the invention has been described in terms of several preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the invention can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.

It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the fingerprint input device using a two-dimensional image sensor. It is a figure which shows the light reception state of the two-dimensional image sensor shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows schematic structure of the fingerprint input device provided with the auxiliary light source. It is a figure of a one-dimensional swipe (passage) type fingerprint input device and restoration of a fingerprint image. It is a figure of the mobile telephone provided with the fingerprint input device of this invention. 1 is a diagram of a standard telephone equipped with a fingerprint input device of the present invention. It is a figure of the facsimile apparatus provided with the fingerprint input device of this invention. It is a figure of the personal computer (PC: personal computer) provided with the fingerprint input device of this invention. It is a figure of PC mouse provided with the fingerprint input device of the present invention. 1 is a diagram of a mobile identification (ID) solution using a mobile phone or portable computer. It is a figure of online banking using the mobile telephone or PC provided with the fingerprint input device of this invention. It is a figure of the entrance door provided with the fingerprint input device of the present invention. It is a figure of the entrance of the hotel room provided with the fingerprint input device of this invention. It is a figure of the door of the motor vehicle provided with the fingerprint input device of this invention. It is a figure of the safe provided with the fingerprint input device of the present invention. It is a figure of the locker provided with the fingerprint input device of the present invention. It is a figure of ATM (automated teller machine) provided with the fingerprint input device of the present invention. It is a figure of the terminal device for banks provided with the fingerprint input device of the present invention. It is a figure of a jewelry store case provided with the fingerprint input device of the present invention. 1 is a point-of-sale (POS) system equipped with a fingerprint input device of the present invention. It is a figure of the television remote control device provided with the fingerprint input device of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Light receiving element, 1A ... Light receiving surface, 1B ... Transparent film, 2 ... Finger, 3 ... Skin surface, 4 ... Raised part, 5 ... Depressed part, 6 ... Space, 10 ... Fingerprint recognition part, 11 ... Image sensor, 12 ... Image processor, 13 ... Pattern recognition unit, 14A ... Light source, 14B ... Light source, 15 ... Thin film filter, 16 ... Substrate, 41 ... Image sensor, 42 ... Finger, 43 ... Raw image, 44 ... Fingerprint image, 45 ... LED, 51 ... fingerprint input device, 52 ... display area, 53 ... keypad area, 62 ... display area, 63 ... keypad area, 64 ... handset, 72 ... display area, 73 ... keypad area, 74 ... handset, 82 ... display Area 83... Keyboard area 1001 initial registration 1002 database 1003 mobile phone 1004 AFIS computer 100 ... identification data, 1101 ... mobile phone, 1102 ... PC, 1103 ... bank, 1105 ... central financial clearing house, 1106 ... server, 1107 ... database, 1108 ... card reader, 1109 ... credit card clearing house, 1301 ... fingerprint input device, 1302 ... hotel server, 1601 ... fingerprint input device, 1602 ... central server, 1701 ... fingerprint input device, 1702 ... card reader, 1703 ... display, 1704 ... keypad, 1801 ... fingerprint input device.

Claims (39)

An image sensor adapted to generate an electrical signal representative of an image of a finger skin surface,
A transparent coating having first and second surfaces;
Arranged under the second surface of the coating in a narrow line-type arrangement, when the first surface of the coating is in sliding contact with the skin surface of the finger, through the coating, and A plurality of light-responsive means for generating an electrical signal representative of a raw image of a fingerprint when the skin surface slides on the first surface of the coating in response to only light emanating directly from the inside of the finger; ,
An image sensor comprising: means for restoring a fingerprint image in response to the electrical signal representing a raw image of the fingerprint when the finger surface is passed perpendicularly across the narrow line array . A fingerprint device that controls a door to enter a building, room or vehicle,
An image sensor adapted to generate an electrical signal representative of an image of a finger skin surface;
Data storage means for registering personal fingerprint data authorized to enter a building, room or vehicle;
A locking mechanism that responds to the image sensor at the door, accesses the data storage means, and allows entry into a building, room or vehicle if the input fingerprint matches the fingerprint data stored in the data storage means And including
The image sensor is
A transparent coating having first and second surfaces;
Light that is lined under the second surface of the coating and directly exits from the inside of the finger through the coating when the first surface of the coating contacts the skin surface of the finger A plurality of light-responsive means for generating an electrical signal representative of an image of the skin surface of a finger in response to the finger only. Control entry into hotel rooms,
The data storage means is a server for registering customers during a temporary stay,
The customer's fingerprint data is deleted when the hotel ’s temporary stay ends,
The fingerprint device according to claim 2.   The fingerprint device of claim 3 further controlling access to a safe in a hotel room. A plurality of drivers can be stored in the data storage means to control boarding the vehicle;
The data storage means further stores information on individual seats and mirror positions for each registered driver,
The locking mechanism starts position adjustment of the seat and the mirror when boarding the vehicle is permitted,
The fingerprint device according to claim 2. The plurality of photoresponsive elements are arranged in a narrow line-type arrangement below the second surface of the coating;
further,
The fingerprint device according to claim 2, further comprising means for restoring an image of a fingerprint when the skin surface of the finger is passed in a perpendicular direction across the narrow line array. A fingerprint device that controls access to a safe, locker or display case to protect cash, documents, securities and / or valuables,
An image sensor adapted to generate an electrical signal representative of an image of a finger skin surface;
Data storage means for registering personal fingerprint data authorized to access a safe, locker or display case;
A lock mechanism that responds to the image sensor, accesses the data storage means, and permits access to a safe, locker or display case if the input fingerprint matches the fingerprint data stored in the data storage means And including
The image sensor is
A transparent coating having first and second surfaces;
Light that is lined under the second surface of the coating and directly exits from the inside of the finger through the coating when the first surface of the coating contacts the skin surface of the finger A plurality of light-responsive means for generating an electrical signal representative of an image of the skin surface of a finger in response to the finger only. Control access to safes or lockers,
The data storage means is a server for registering a user of a safe or a locker for a temporary period,
The user's fingerprint data will be deleted when the temporary period has elapsed,
The fingerprint device according to claim 7. Control access to safes or display cases,
The data storage means registers first and second fingerprint data of individuals authorized to access a safe or display case;
When the lock mechanism matches the first fingerprint data stored in the data storage means, the lock mechanism permits access to a safe or a display case, and the second fingerprint data stored in the data storage means The fingerprint device according to claim 7, wherein an emergency signal is generated when the two match. The plurality of photoresponsive elements are arranged in a narrow line-type arrangement below the second surface of the coating;
further,
8. A fingerprint device according to claim 7, comprising means for restoring a fingerprint image when the skin surface of the finger is passed perpendicularly across the narrow line array. A fingerprint device that controls user authentication of a telephone, personal computer, terminal or communication device,
An image sensor adapted to generate an electrical signal representative of an image of a finger skin surface;
Data storage means for registering personal fingerprint data;
Authentication means for accessing the data storage means and authenticating the user of the telephone, personal computer or terminal when the fingerprint image entered by the user matches the fingerprint data stored in the data storage means; ,
The image sensor is
A transparent coating having first and second surfaces;
Light that is lined under the second surface of the coating and directly exits from the inside of the finger through the coating when the first surface of the coating contacts the skin surface of the finger A plurality of light-responsive means for generating an electrical signal representative of an image of the skin surface of a finger in response to the finger only.   12. The fingerprint device of claim 11, wherein the terminal is an automated teller machine (ATM) that approves a financial transaction initiated by a user once the user is authenticated.   12. The fingerprint device according to claim 11, wherein the terminal is a bank terminal device that approves a financial transaction initiated by a user when the user is authenticated. The phone is a mobile phone;
The plurality of photoresponsive elements are arranged in a narrow line-type arrangement below the second surface of the coating;
further,
12. The fingerprint device of claim 11, comprising means for restoring a fingerprint image when the skin surface of the finger is passed in a right angle across the narrow line array.   12. The fingerprint device of claim 11, wherein the PC is connected to a local area network (LAN) and initiates a login procedure to the LAN when a user of the PC is authenticated. The communication device is a television receiver;
12. The fingerprint apparatus of claim 11, wherein the image sensor is incorporated in a remote control device that controls access to a channel of a television receiver. The plurality of photoresponsive elements are arranged in a narrow line-type arrangement below the second surface of the coating;
further,
The fingerprint device of claim 16, comprising means for restoring an image of a fingerprint when the skin surface of the finger is passed perpendicularly across the narrow line array. A fingerprint device for controlling credit card transactions,
A credit card reader incorporating an image sensor adapted to generate an electrical signal representative of an image of a finger skin surface;
Data storage means for registering the fingerprint data of the individual from whom the credit card was issued;
A database system that receives credit card and fingerprint data, accesses the data storage device, and determines whether the person presenting the credit card for a credit transaction is the credit card owner And including
The image sensor is
A transparent coating having first and second surfaces;
Light that is lined under the second surface of the coating and directly exits from the inside of the finger through the coating when the first surface of the coating contacts the skin surface of the finger A plurality of light-responsive means for generating an electrical signal representative of an image of the skin surface of a finger in response to the finger only.   The database system determines whether a person presenting a credit card for a credit transaction has sufficient credit lines, and if so, authorizes the transaction. 18. The fingerprint device according to 18. The plurality of photoresponsive elements are arranged in a narrow line-type arrangement below the second surface of the coating;
further,
19. A fingerprint device according to claim 18, comprising means for restoring a fingerprint image when the skin surface of the finger is passed perpendicularly across the narrow line array. A fingerprint method for controlling a door into a building, room or vehicle,
Attaching an image sensor adapted to generate an electrical signal representative of an image of a finger skin surface to or near the door;
Registering fingerprint data of individuals authorized to enter the building, room or vehicle in the data storage means;
In response to the fingerprint being applied to the image sensor, the data storage means is accessed, and if the input fingerprint matches the fingerprint data stored in the data storage means, it enters the building, room or vehicle. Including a step of allowing,
The image sensor is
A transparent coating having first and second surfaces;
Light that is lined under the second surface of the coating and directly exits from the inside of the finger through the coating when the first surface of the coating contacts the skin surface of the finger And a plurality of light-responsive means for generating an electrical signal representative of the image of the skin surface of the finger in response to only. Control entry into hotel rooms,
The data storage means is a server for registering customers during a temporary stay,
further,
The fingerprint method according to claim 21, further comprising a step of deleting the customer's fingerprint data when the temporary stay at the hotel ends.   The fingerprint method of claim 21, further controlling access to a hotel room safe. A plurality of drivers can be stored in the data storage means to control boarding the vehicle;
further,
For each driver registered in the data storage means, storing information relating to the personal seat and mirror position;
The fingerprint method according to claim 21, further comprising a step of starting position adjustment of the seat and the mirror when boarding the vehicle is permitted. The plurality of photoresponsive elements are arranged in a narrow line-type arrangement below the second surface of the coating;
further,
The fingerprint method of claim 21, comprising restoring a fingerprint image when the skin surface of the finger is passed perpendicularly across the narrow line array. A fingerprint method for controlling access to a safe, locker or display case to protect cash, documents, securities and / or valuables,
Attaching an image sensor adapted to generate an electrical signal representative of an image of a finger skin surface to a safety locking device or display case;
Registering in the data storage means the fingerprint data of an individual authorized to access the safe, locker or display case;
In response to the fingerprint being applied to the image sensor, the data storage means is accessed, and when the input fingerprint matches the fingerprint data stored in the data storage means, it is stored in a safe, locker or display case. Allowing access, and
The image sensor is
A transparent coating having first and second surfaces;
Light that is lined under the second surface of the coating and directly exits from the inside of the finger through the coating when the first surface of the coating contacts the skin surface of the finger A plurality of light-responsive means for generating an electrical signal representative of the image of the skin surface of a finger in response to only. Control access to safes or lockers,
The data storage means is a server for registering a user of a safe or a locker for a temporary period,
27. The fingerprint method according to claim 26, further comprising the step of deleting the user's fingerprint data when a temporary period has elapsed. Control access to safes or display cases,
further,
Registering first and second fingerprint data of an individual authorized to access a safe or display case in the data storage means;
Permitting access to a safe or display case when it matches the first fingerprint data stored in the data storage means;
27. The fingerprint method according to claim 26, further comprising a step of generating an emergency signal when the second fingerprint data stored in the data storage means matches the second fingerprint data. The plurality of photoresponsive elements are arranged in a narrow line-type arrangement below the second surface of the coating;
further,
27. The fingerprint method of claim 26, comprising restoring a fingerprint image when the skin surface of the finger is passed perpendicularly across the narrow line array. A fingerprint method for controlling user authentication of a telephone, personal computer, terminal or communication device, comprising:
Attaching an image sensor adapted to generate an electrical signal representing an image of a finger skin surface to a telephone, personal computer (PC), terminal or communication device;
Registering personal fingerprint data in the data storage means;
Accessing the data storage means and authenticating the user of the telephone, personal computer or terminal if the fingerprint image entered by the user matches the fingerprint data stored in the data storage means,
The image sensor is
A transparent coating having first and second surfaces;
Light that is lined under the second surface of the coating and directly exits from the inside of the finger through the coating when the first surface of the coating contacts the skin surface of the finger A plurality of light-responsive means for generating an electrical signal representative of the image of the skin surface of a finger in response to only. The terminal is an automated teller machine (ATM),
further,
32. The fingerprint method of claim 30, comprising authorizing a financial transaction initiated by the user once the user is authenticated. The terminal is a bank terminal device,
further,
32. The fingerprint method of claim 30, further comprising the step of authorizing a financial transaction initiated by the user once the user is authenticated. The phone is a mobile phone;
The plurality of photoresponsive elements are arranged in a narrow line-type arrangement below the second surface of the coating;
further,
31. The fingerprint method of claim 30, comprising restoring a fingerprint image when the skin surface of the finger is passed perpendicularly across the narrow line array.   The fingerprint method of claim 30, wherein the PC is connected to a local area network (LAN) and initiates a login procedure to the LAN when a user of the PC is identified. The communication device is a television receiver,
The fingerprint method of claim 30, wherein the image sensor is incorporated in a remote control device that controls access to a channel of a television receiver. The plurality of photoresponsive elements are arranged in a narrow line-type arrangement below the second surface of the coating;
further,
36. The fingerprint method of claim 35, comprising restoring a fingerprint image when the skin surface of the finger is passed perpendicularly across the narrow line array. A fingerprint method for controlling credit card transactions,
Incorporating into the credit card reader an image sensor adapted to generate an electrical signal representative of an image of the finger skin surface;
Registering the personal fingerprint data issued by the credit card in the data storage means;
A database receives credit card and fingerprint data, accesses the data storage device, and determines whether the person presenting the credit card for a credit transaction is the credit card owner Including steps and
The image sensor is
A transparent coating having first and second surfaces;
Light that is lined under the second surface of the coating and directly exits from the inside of the finger through the coating when the first surface of the coating contacts the skin surface of the finger And a plurality of light-responsive means for generating an electrical signal representative of the image of the skin surface of the finger in response to only.   The database system further includes determining whether the person presenting the credit card for the credit transaction has sufficient trading credit and, if so, authorizing the transaction. The fingerprint method according to claim 37. The plurality of photoresponsive elements are arranged in a narrow line-type arrangement below the second surface of the coating;
further,
38. The fingerprint method of claim 37, comprising restoring a fingerprint image when the skin surface of the finger is passed perpendicularly across the narrow line array.

Images