JP2007323109A - Image acquisition method and image acquisition device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent substitution in an image acquisition method and device for acquiring the face image of a user and biological information belonging to the hand of the user. <P>SOLUTION: This image acquisition device 10 decides whether or not the hand of a user 14 is arranged in a biological information acquisition means, and permits the acquisition of the face image of the user 14 only in a period when it is decided that the hand of the user is arranged by the decision, and permits the acquisition of the biological information belonging to the hand of the user 14 only in the period when it is decided that the hand of the user is arranged by the decision. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention mainly relates to an image acquisition method and apparatus for acquiring an image attached to a tag or the like belonging to an individual such as an identification card or a magnetic card. More specifically, in addition to acquisition of a user's face image, The present invention relates to an image acquisition method and apparatus having a function of acquiring biological information belonging to a user's hand.

  In recent years, unmanned image acquisition devices that take a picture of a subject with a camera are installed on the street. The image obtained in this way is printed on photographic print paper, plain paper, sticker paper, etc. and provided to the user, and is used for personal authentication documents such as a license.

Recently, biometric information has been used for personal authentication in order to improve security, and an image acquisition device capable of acquiring biometric information such as a fingerprint as well as taking a face photograph has been proposed (for example, patents). Reference 1). In the apparatus described in Patent Document 1, biometric information is acquired following acquisition of a face image, and a face photograph and biometric information are printed on a sheet.
JP 2005-148537 A

  However, if the user replaces the face image and the biometric information, the acquired face image and the biometric information cannot be correct authentication information. The apparatus of Patent Document 1 acquires biometric information immediately after acquisition of a face image. However, if it is determined that the acquired biometric information is not usable data, the biometric information is reacquired. Like to do. Therefore, when you acquire biometric information for the first time, if you intentionally acquire incomplete data, you can get a chance of reacquisition and replace the other person's biometric information at the time of reacquisition. Can be registered.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and can prevent a user from being replaced in an image acquisition method and apparatus for acquiring a user's face image and biological information belonging to the user's hand. An object of the present invention is to provide an image acquisition method and apparatus.

  The image acquisition method of the present invention is an image acquisition method for acquiring biometric information belonging to a user's hand and the user's face image, and whether or not the user's hand is arranged in the biometric information acquisition means. It is determined, and acquisition of the user's face image is permitted only during a period in which it is determined in the determination that it is arranged.

  An image acquisition device according to the present invention is an image acquisition device including biological information acquisition means for acquiring biological information belonging to a user's hand, and face image acquisition means for acquiring a face image of the user. Determination means for determining whether or not a hand is placed on the biological information acquisition means; and control means for enabling the face image acquisition means only during a period determined by the determination means to be placed. It is characterized by comprising.

  In the image acquisition apparatus, the control unit may enable the biological information acquisition unit to operate only during a period in which the determination unit determines that it is arranged.

  In addition, when it is determined in the determination that it is not arranged, the determination unit further includes the face image of the user and the user's face during the period of continuous arrangement immediately before the arrangement. It is determined whether or not biometric information belonging to the hand has been acquired, and the control means determines that both the face image of the user and the biometric information belonging to the user's hand are not acquired together. In some cases, even if either one of the face image of the user or the biological information belonging to the user's hand is acquired, the one may be invalidated.

  Here, the “biological information belonging to the hand” includes a fingerprint, a fingerprint, a hook, a finger vein pattern, a palm vein pattern, and the like.

  Further, “the hand is placed on the biological information acquisition means” here means that the hand is placed on the biological information acquisition means in a state where the biological information can be acquired, and the entire hand is not necessarily included. It is not necessary to be arranged in the biological information acquisition means, and only a part of the hand may be arranged as long as desired biological information can be acquired.

  The image acquisition method of the present invention determines whether or not the user's hand is placed on the biometric information acquisition means, and obtains the user's face image only during the period determined to be placed in the determination. Therefore, when acquiring a face image, the user's hand is always in a state of being restrained with respect to the biometric information acquisition means, and it is extremely difficult for the user to replace it. Therefore, according to the image acquisition method and apparatus of the present invention, it is possible to prevent the user from switching when acquiring a face image.

  An image acquisition apparatus according to the present invention includes a determination unit that determines whether or not a user's hand is placed on a biological information acquisition unit, and a face image acquisition unit only during a period when the user's hand is determined to be placed. Therefore, when the face image acquisition means is activated and the face image is acquired, the user's hand is always restrained with respect to the biological information acquisition means. It is extremely difficult for users to replace them. Therefore, according to the image acquisition method and apparatus of the present invention, it is possible to prevent the user from switching when acquiring a face image.

  Furthermore, when the control means enables the biometric information acquisition means to operate only during the period in which the determination means determines that it is arranged, when the biometric information belonging to the face image and the hand is acquired. Since the user's hand is always bound to the biometric information acquisition means, the user can be prevented from switching.

  In addition, when it is determined in the determination that it is not arranged, the determination unit further includes the face image of the user and the user's face during the period of continuous arrangement immediately before the arrangement. It is determined whether or not biometric information belonging to the hand has been acquired, and the control means determines that both the face image of the user and the biometric information belonging to the user's hand are not acquired together. Sometimes, even if either one of the face image of the user or the biological information belonging to the user's hand is acquired, if the one is invalidated, the user's hand is directed to the biological information acquisition means. Only the face image and the biological information belonging to the hand acquired in a continuously restrained state can be validated. In other words, it is possible to invalidate the face image and the biometric information belonging to the hand that the user may have replaced, and to enable only the face image and the biometric information belonging to the hand that may not have been replaced by the user. , Can prevent users from replacing.

  Here, when the biological information belonging to the hand is a fingerprint, for example, the biological information can be acquired with one finger, so that the apparatus can be downsized and the burden on the user can be reduced.

  Hereinafter, an image acquisition apparatus and method according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image acquisition apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The image acquisition apparatus 10 has a rectangular parallelepiped casing as a whole, and is approximately 2.0 m high and 1.4 m wide. As an example, FIG. As shown in FIG. 1, the apparatus 10 includes a photographing room 12 having a width of about 75 cm, and a user 14 takes a picture while sitting on a chair 16 provided in the photographing room 12.

  The image acquisition device 10 is divided into an upper stage 18, a middle stage 20, and a lower stage 22 having a desk portion 21 except for the shooting room 12. The middle stage 20 is provided with a digital camera 24 and a controller 33. The controller 33 controls the entire operation of the image acquisition apparatus 10 including control of the digital camera 24 and performs various processes such as image processing. The angle of view α of the lens of the digital camera 24 is wide and covers the range of the height 60 cm to 170 cm of the back wall 27 of the photographing room 12. Therefore, when the user 14 sits on the chair 16, at least the head 15 and the chest 17 can be reliably covered, and photographing independent of the height of the user 14 is possible.

  On the upper stage 18, an illumination device 25, a CRT display 26, and a speaker 29 are arranged. The illumination device 25, the CRT display 26 and the speaker 29 are connected to the controller 33. The illumination device 25 is illumination that illuminates the photographing room 12 in order to maintain sufficient brightness for photographing, and the speaker 29 is a device that conveys an operation instruction to the user 14 by voice.

  The CRT display 26 is a display unit that can display a moving image and a still image that are captured by the digital camera 24 and output from the controller 33. The display screen 30 of the CRT display 26 is directed downward, and the display content is projected onto the half mirror 34 of the middle stage 20 through the hollow boundary surface 32 between the upper stage 18 and the middle stage 20. According to the inclined half mirror 34 disposed between the digital camera 24 and the user 14, a part of the light from the CRT display 26 and the photographing room 12 is reflected mutually.

  A part of the light from the photographing room 12 is transmitted to the digital camera 24, but the light from the digital camera 24 side is blocked and does not reach the photographing room 12. Therefore, the user 14 can confirm the projection content on the half mirror 34 through the glass window 35, but the digital camera 24 is not visible to the user 14. However, the digital camera 24 can capture an image of the user 14 by light that passes through the half mirror 34 from the imaging room 12 and reaches the digital camera 24.

  A foot button 37 for instructing acquisition of a still image of a face image is provided on the floor surface of the shooting room 12, and a still image of a face image is acquired by the user 14 pressing the foot button 37 with his / her foot. At this time, a face image acquisition signal is generated. Thus, the foot button 37 functions as a face image acquisition unit.

  The lower stage 22 is provided with a fingerprint acquisition unit 40 that is biometric information acquisition means, an operation touch panel 41, a card writer 42, a printer 43, and a modem 44. The fingerprint acquisition unit 40, the operation touch panel 41, the card writer 42, the printer 43, and the modem 44 are connected to the controller 33. Note that the fingerprint acquisition unit 40, the operation touch panel 41, and the card writer 42 are accommodated in the desk unit 21.

  FIG. 3 shows a schematic configuration of the fingerprint acquisition unit 40. The fingerprint acquisition unit 40 splits a prism 141 that makes contact with the fingerprint surface of the finger 13 of the user 14, a light source 142 that irradiates light on the fingerprint surface that is in contact with the prism 141, and reflected light from the fingerprint surface. A light branching member 143 that is arranged, a detection unit 144 arranged in one of the branched optical paths, and a fingerprint scanner 145 that is arranged in the other optical path of the branched and images a fingerprint.

  The prism 141 is a triangular prism whose one side surface is a right-angled isosceles triangle, and the surface corresponding to the hypotenuse as shown in FIG. The incident light from the light source 142 to the prism 141 and the outgoing light from the prism 141 to the light branching member 143 are arranged so as to form an angle of 45 degrees with this oblique side. The light source 142 is composed of, for example, a light emitting diode. The light branching member 143 is configured by, for example, a half mirror.

  The detection unit 144 is configured by a light receiving element such as a photodiode, for example, and detects a position of whether or not the finger 13 of the user 14 is arranged in the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 in a state where the fingerprint can be acquired. Since the amount of light incident on the detection unit 144 varies depending on whether or not the finger 13 of the user 14 is arranged on the prism 141, the finger 13 is arranged on the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 based on the output of the light receiving element of the detection unit 144. Detect whether or not.

  FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating the time change of the output of the light receiving element of the detection unit 144. When the output is within a predetermined threshold range Δ, the detection unit 144 is in an ON state where the finger 13 is placed in the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 in a state where the fingerprint can be acquired, and the output is outside the predetermined threshold range Δ. When the finger 13 is in the state, it is detected that the finger 13 is in an OFF state in which the fingerprint can be acquired and is not arranged in the fingerprint acquisition unit 40. FIG. 4B is a diagram showing a result of position detection according to the output of FIG. 4A, and ON and OFF in FIG. 4B mean the above-described ON state and OFF state. The threshold range Δ may be set in advance as a fixed value, or may be variably set like a predetermined ratio of output relative to the maximum output. The output of the position detection result of the detection unit 144 is always output to the controller 33.

  The fingerprint scanner 145 is composed of a line sensor or the like in which a plurality of light receiving elements are arranged in a row, and can move in a direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the light receiving elements. By this movement, a two-dimensional image is captured. And obtain fingerprint data. When fingerprint data is acquired by the fingerprint scanner 145, a scan OK signal is generated and output to the controller 33. In addition, fingerprint data captured by the fingerprint scanner 145 is also output to the controller 33.

  The touch panel 41 is a device that outputs a signal based on an operation of the user 14 to the controller 33. The touch panel 41 can switch between an information input screen for inputting personal information such as a user name, a resident card code number or a passport number, and an operation input screen for inputting an operation by the user. On the information input screen, a keyboard is displayed, and on the operation input screen, a confirmation button for confirming the continuation of the processing, a selection button for selecting the processing for the selective processing, and the like are displayed.

  The card writer 42 is an apparatus that has an insertion port 52 for the recording medium 51 brought by the user 14 and that can write on the inserted medium. As the recording medium 51, a flexible disk, smart media (registered trademark), compact flash (registered trademark), memory stick (registered trademark), SD (Secure Digital) memory card (registered trademark), xD (Extreme Digital) picture card (registered) Trademark) or the like. The card writer 42 writes the digital image data of the face photographed by the camera 24 and the fingerprint data acquired by the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 into the recording medium 51.

  The printer 43 can print an image taken by the digital camera 24 as a photograph. The printed photograph is discharged from the discharge port 53. The modem 44 is a transfer unit that transfers digital image data or fingerprint data of the user's face to a predetermined base, for example, the management center 66 via the communication line 62 when the user desires.

  The controller 33 stores the face image, fingerprint data, and user personal information in association with each other. In the controller 33, the unique identification number of the image acquisition apparatus 10 and the shooting date / time data can be associated with each other and stored. Further, the controller 33 can transmit the data associated with the above to the remote management center 66 via the modem 44 and the communication line 62.

  In FIG. 1, for convenience of illustration, the inside of the upper stage 18, the middle stage 20, and the lower stage 22 of the apparatus 10 is visualized, but actually, the touch panel 41, the insertion port 52 of the card writer 42, and the discharge port 53 of the printer 43. Other than that, it is hidden by the wall and cannot be seen by the user 14. In addition, the lower stage 22 is further provided with mechanisms such as a charge input port and a refund port, but these are not shown.

  The side wall 71 of the apparatus 10 is provided with a monitoring camera 74 that continuously photographs the user 14. This surveillance camera 74 has a wide angle of view of the lens, and can obtain a surveillance image obtained by photographing the user's hand and face simultaneously. The monitoring camera 74 is attached to a side wall 71 about 10 cm from the side of the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 so as to be able to photograph the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 and the user's face. A monitoring image captured by the monitoring camera 74 is output to the controller 33.

  FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of the digital camera 24 and the controller 33 in FIG. The optical lens 80 receives light from the user 14 as a subject and forms a subject image on the light receiving surface of the imaging unit 81. For example, a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) can be used as the imaging unit 81. The image signal photoelectrically converted by the imaging unit 81 is output to the video output unit 83.

  The video output unit 83 normally sends the image signal from the imaging unit 81 to the CRT display 26 via the output terminal as it is. Therefore, the moving image of the user 14 is captured and output by the digital camera 24, displayed on the CRT display 26, reflected by the half mirror 34, and returned to the user 14. Returning the moving image as it is to the user in this way is hereinafter referred to as video through. Before shooting, the user 14 can watch the returned moving image in real time by video through.

  The image signal output from the imaging unit 81 can also be output to an A / D converter (Analogue / Digital Converter; ADC) 82. At the time of photographing a face image, the A / D converter 82 converts an image signal, which is an analog signal, into a digital image signal and stores it in the memory 84.

  A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 85 is connected to an A / D converter 82, a memory 84, and a D / A converter (Digital / Analog Converter; DAC) 86, and controls these units. At the time of shooting, the CPU 85 sends a conversion command to the A / D converter 82 to A / D convert the moving image signal in units of one frame. The CPU 85 can take a digital image signal that has been digitized and recorded in the memory 84, perform various image processing, and re-store it in the memory 84.

  The CPU 85 functions as determination means and control means of the present invention. The CPU 85 receives the fingerprint 13 of the user 14 from the fingerprint data acquisition unit 40 in a state in which the fingerprint 13 can be acquired after the fingerprint data or the facial image is acquired until the other fingerprint data or the facial image is acquired. The determination part 88 which determines whether it has arrange | positioned is provided. A signal representing the position detection result from the detection unit 144 of the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 is always output to the determination unit 88. The determination unit 88 outputs a scan OK signal when fingerprint data is acquired and a face image acquisition signal when a face image is acquired.

  When one of the scan OK signal or the face image acquisition signal is input, the determination unit 88 uses this signal as a trigger to start the operation of monitoring the position detection result from the detection unit 144. This monitoring operation is continued until at least the other of the scan OK signal or the face image acquisition signal is input. If the position detection result is continuously ON during this period, the determination unit 88 determines that the finger has been continuously placed on the fingerprint acquisition unit 40, and the CPU 85 authenticates the acquired fingerprint data and face image. The fingerprint data and the face image are stored in the memory 84. Alternatively, if the position detection result is not in an ON state continuously during this period, that is, if there is an OFF state even for a few seconds, the determination unit 88 determines that the finger has not been continuously placed in the fingerprint acquisition unit 40, and the CPU 85 Does not save the acquired fingerprint data and face image, but issues an instruction to prompt for re-acquisition.

  Further, the CPU 85 determines whether or not the fingerprint data obtained by performing image processing after photographing with the digital camera 24 is fingerprint data that can be used for personal authentication. The fingerprint data is stored in the memory 84 as fingerprint data.

  Further, the CPU 85 adds the personal information data input from the touch panel 41 to the face image and fingerprint data of the user 14 acquired by the digital camera 24, for example, the user name, the resident card code number or the passport number. Associate. The CPU 85 also associates the unique identification number of the image acquisition device 10 with the shooting date / time data.

  The association may be performed by any method. For example, a face image can be named using personal information data. Alternatively, the text data may be recorded in the header portion of the digital image data, handled integrally, and stored in the memory 84. In this way, digital image data capable of identifying “who belongs to” can be created from the personal information data associated with the digital image data.

  The CPU 85 can output a digital still image that has undergone image processing, perform D / A conversion by the D / A converter 86, and send it to the video output unit 83. At this time, the video output unit 83 can be controlled to output an analog still image signal instead of the video moving analog video signal. As a result, a still image that has been shot and subjected to image processing can be shown to the user. The analog still image signal and moving image signal can be output in either color or black and white format.

  The CPU 85 can freely lay out the photographed image subjected to image processing and display it on the CRT display 26. Along with the output of the image, a plurality of still images prepared in advance in the memory 84 can be displayed in frame advance so that a simple animation can be displayed on the CRT display 26. Furthermore, free graphic output via the video output unit 83 is possible, and a message for the user 14 can be displayed on the CRT display 26.

  The CPU 85 is also connected to the speaker 29, and outputs a prepared audio signal to the speaker 29, so that an operation instruction suitable for each operation can be instructed to the user 14 by voice.

  The CPU 85 is also connected to the printer 43 and the touch panel 41. The still image that has been subjected to image processing can be printed as a photograph by being output from the CPU 85 to the printer 43 together with a print command. Further, the CPU 85 receives an operation command from the touch panel 41 and performs processing according to the operation of the user 14.

  The CPU 85 is further connected to a ROM (Read Only Memory) 87. The ROM 87 records at least a plurality of image processing programs, ID photo requirement specifications, and fingerprint authentication requirement specifications. The required specification of the ID photo includes at least information on the size of the photo to be printed and the size and position of the head in the photo. The required specification for fingerprint authentication includes at least information about a finger for acquiring fingerprint data and a feature point necessary for fingerprint authentication. The CPU 85 accesses the ROM 87, appropriately reads various programs and required photo specifications, and performs image processing for creating a photo that conforms to the required specifications for the still face image captured from the memory 84, and fingerprint data. Image processing to acquire

  Next, an operation example of the image acquisition apparatus 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the image acquisition apparatus 10. 7, 8, and 9 are timing charts for explaining the operation of the image acquisition apparatus 10. 7, 8, and 9, (1) is the position detection result of the detection unit 144, that is, the ON state where the finger 13 is placed in the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 in a state where the fingerprint can be acquired, or the finger 13 is the fingerprint It shows whether it is in an OFF state that is not arranged in the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 in an acquirable state, (2) shows a movement operation for acquiring fingerprint data of the fingerprint scanner 145, and (3) shows a fingerprint. A scan OK signal generated when fingerprint data is acquired by the scanner 145 is shown. (4) shows a position detection result of the detection unit 144 monitored by the determination unit 88, and (5) is a foot. FIG. 7 shows a face image acquisition signal that is generated when a face image is acquired by depressing the button 37; FIG.

  All the operations of the present embodiment are performed in response to a voice message from the speaker 29. The user 14 first inputs a fee (step 100). As a result, the image acquisition device 10 is activated. Next, the recording medium 51 is inserted into the insertion port 52 of the card writer 42 (step 101). Thereafter, personal information such as name and resident's card code is input from the touch panel 41 on which an information input screen (keyboard) is displayed (step 102).

  A moving image of the user's face imaged by the digital camera 24 is displayed on the CRT display 26 by video through (step 103). The user 14 places the finger 13 on the prism 141 surface of the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 so that the fingerprint can be acquired (step 104). When the finger 13 is placed on the fingerprint acquisition unit 40, the detection unit 144 detects that the finger 13 is placed due to a change in the amount of light incident on the detection unit 144, and the detection unit 144 starts a position detection operation (step 105). ). In this position detection operation, as described with reference to FIG. 4, based on the output of the light receiving element, the finger 13 is in the ON state where the finger 13 can be acquired in the fingerprint acquisition unit 40, or the finger 13 acquires the fingerprint. It is detected whether it is in an OFF state that is not arranged in the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 in a possible state. This position detection operation is continued for a predetermined time after the placement of the finger 13 on the prism 141 surface is detected, or for a predetermined time after the ON state is detected.

  When the detection unit 144 detects that the finger 13 has been placed, the fingerprint scanner 145 starts a moving operation, whereby fingerprint data is acquired. On the other hand, when the user 14 depresses the foot button 37, a face image is acquired. In the image acquisition device 10 according to the present embodiment, it is not necessary to acquire fingerprint data and a face image at the same time, and there is no restriction on the order of acquisition. Which of the fingerprint data and the face image is acquired first depends on the timing of the movement of the fingerprint scanner 145 and the depression of the foot button 37. When either one of the fingerprint data and the face image is acquired (step 106), the determination unit 88 starts monitoring the position detection result based on the signal output from the detection unit 144 (step 107). Thereafter, when the other of the fingerprint data and the face image is acquired (step 108), the determination unit 88 determines whether or not the two data are continuously ON during the acquisition (step 109).

  Here, the operations of Step 106 to Step 109 will be described in detail with reference to the timing chart for each case. The timing chart of FIG. 7 shows an example when fingerprint data is acquired before the face image. When fingerprint data is acquired at time T1 by the fingerprint scanner 145 (step 106), a scan OK signal S1 is generated as shown in FIG. 7 (3), and the determination unit 88 uses FIG. As shown in 4), the signal transmitted from the detection unit 144 is read and monitoring of the position detection result is started (step 107).

  Thereafter, at time T2, a face image is acquired by pressing down the foot button 37 of the user 14 (step 108). By pressing down the foot button 37, a short-pulse face image acquisition signal S2 is generated and output to the determination unit 88, as shown in FIG. The determination unit 88 determines whether or not the ON state has been continuously maintained from time T1 to time T2 (step 109). As shown in FIG. 7 (4), when the user is continuously in the ON state, it is determined that the user 14's hand is continuously placed on the fingerprint acquisition unit 40, and the process proceeds to the next step.

  The example shown in FIG. 8 is a case where fingerprint data is acquired at time T1 and a face image is acquired at time T2, as in the example shown in FIG. 7, but as shown in FIGS. 8 (1) and 8 (4). 7 is different from the example shown in FIG. 7 only in that an OFF state occurs between time T1 and time T2. In this case, the determination result in the determination unit 88 is determined that the user 14's hand has not been placed continuously from time T1 to time T2, and the process returns to step 106, where the fingerprint data and the face image are displayed. Encourage both re-acquisition.

  The timing chart of FIG. 9 shows an example when the face image is acquired before the fingerprint data. At time T3, a face image is acquired by depressing the foot button 37. At this time, a short-pulse face image acquisition signal S3 is generated as shown in FIG. 9 (5). Using this signal S3 as a trigger signal, the determination unit 88 reads the signal transmitted from the detection unit 144 as shown in FIG. 9 (4) and starts monitoring the position detection result (step 107).

  Thereafter, fingerprint data is acquired at time T4 by the movement of the fingerprint scanner 145 (step 108), and a scan OK signal S4 is generated as shown in FIG. 9 (3). The determination unit 88 determines whether or not the ON state has been continuously maintained from time T3 to time T4 (step 109). As shown in FIG. 9 (4), when it is continuously ON, it is determined that the hand of the user 14 has been continuously arranged, and the process proceeds to the next step. Although not shown, in this case as well, if it is determined that the user 14's hand has not been placed continuously from time T3 to time T4, the process returns to step 106, where fingerprint data and face Encourage reacquisition of both images.

  If it is determined in step 109 that the hand of the user 14 is continuously arranged, it is next determined whether or not the acquired face image and fingerprint data are data that can be used for authentication (step). 110). If it is determined that the data is not usable for authentication, the process returns to step 106 to prompt the user to reacquire both fingerprint data and a face image. If it is determined that the data can be used for authentication, the acquired face image is displayed (step 111).

  Then, the controller 33 associates the face image, fingerprint data, user name, personal information such as a resident card code number or passport number, the unique identification number of the image acquisition device 10 and information of the shooting date and time data (step 112). . Further, the acquired fingerprint data and face image are stored as authentic fingerprint data and face image in the memory 84 (step 113), and the recording medium 51 inserted in the insertion slot 52 of the card writer 42 is handled in step 112. Write the above information attached.

  As is clear from the above description, the image acquisition apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment continues to be performed by the user's hand from when one of the fingerprint data and the face image is acquired until the other is acquired. Since the acquired fingerprint data and face image are saved as genuine fingerprint data and face image only when the is placed in the fingerprint acquisition unit, the replacement of fingerprint data and face image is ensured Can be prevented.

  Next, an image acquisition apparatus and method according to the second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Since the image acquisition apparatus and method according to the second embodiment differ only in the functions of the CPU 85 and the determination unit 88 in the first embodiment, only the differences from the first embodiment will be described below. Other explanations are omitted.

  The determination unit 88 according to the present embodiment determines whether or not the finger 13 of the user 14 is placed on the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 in a state where the fingerprint can be acquired. Then, the CPU 85 functions as a control unit that permits the acquisition of the face image of the user 14 only during the period in which it is determined in the determination that it is arranged. Specifically, for example, the CPU 85 enables the foot button 37, which is the face image acquisition means, only during the period determined to be arranged in the determination, and the period determined as not arranged is the foot button 37 is controlled so that it is locked and cannot be pushed down.

  In addition, when it is determined in the above determination that the CPU 85 has not been placed, the face image of the user 14 and the fingerprint data of the user 14 are stored in the period of time that has been continuously placed immediately before the placement. It is determined whether or not it has been acquired, and when it is determined that both the face image of the user 14 and the fingerprint data of the user 14 are not acquired together, the face image of the user 14 and the fingerprint of the user 14 Even if any one of the data is acquired, the one is invalidated.

  Next, an operation example of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11. FIG. 10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the present embodiment, and FIG. 11 is a timing chart for explaining the operation of the present embodiment. What (1) to (5) in FIG. 11 indicate is the same as that described in FIGS. 7 to 9 of the first embodiment.

  All operations in the present embodiment are performed in response to voice messages from the speaker 29. The user 14 first inputs a fee (step 200). As a result, the image acquisition device 10 is activated. Next, the recording medium 51 is inserted into the insertion port 52 of the card writer 42 (step 201). Thereafter, personal information such as name and resident's card code is input from the touch panel 41 on which an information input screen (keyboard) is displayed (step 202).

  The moving image of the user's face imaged by the digital camera 24 is displayed on the CRT display 26 by video through (step 203). The user 14 places the finger 13 on the prism 141 surface of the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 so that the fingerprint can be acquired (step 204). The detection unit 144 starts a position detection operation (step 205). In this position detection operation, as described with reference to FIG. 4, based on the output of the light receiving element, the finger 13 is in the ON state where the finger 13 can be acquired in the fingerprint acquisition unit 40, or the finger 13 acquires the fingerprint. It is detected whether it is in an OFF state that is not arranged in the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 in a possible state.

  Based on the signal from the detection unit 144, the determination unit 88 determines whether or not a hand is placed, that is, whether or not the finger 13 is placed on the fingerprint obtaining unit 40 in a state where the fingerprint can be obtained (step 206). ). In the present embodiment, the determination in the determination unit 88 is always performed while the signal from the detection unit 144 is input.

  The CPU 85 permits the acquisition of the face image and enables the foot button 37 only during the period when the determination unit 88 determines that the hand is placed (step 207). At this time, it may be displayed to the user 14 that a facial image can be acquired by a voice message or a lamp. While the acquisition of the face image is permitted, the user 14 depresses the foot button 37 to acquire the face image (step 208). Next, fingerprint data is acquired by the movement operation of the fingerprint scanner 145 (step 209).

  Next, it is determined whether or not the acquired face image and fingerprint data are data that can be used for authentication (step 210). If it is determined that the data is not usable for authentication, the process returns to step 206 to prompt the user 14 to reacquire both fingerprint data and a face image. If it is determined that the data can be used for authentication, the acquired face image is displayed (step 211).

  Then, the controller 33 associates the face image, fingerprint data, user name, personal information such as a resident card code number or passport number, the unique identification number of the image acquisition device 10 and information of the shooting date and time data (step 212). . The acquired fingerprint data and face image are stored in the memory 84 as authentic fingerprint data and face image (step 213), and the recording medium 51 inserted in the insertion port 52 of the card writer 42 is handled in step 212. Write the above information attached.

  If it is determined in step 206 that the hand of the user 14 is not placed, the CPU 85 determines the face image of the user 14 and the usage during the continuous placement period immediately before the hand is not placed. It is determined whether both of the fingerprint data of the person 14 have been acquired (step 214). Then, if both the face image and the fingerprint data of the user 14 have been acquired together, the process proceeds to step 210. If both the face image and the fingerprint data of the user 14 have not been acquired, It is determined whether any one of the face image and the fingerprint data has been acquired (step 215). If either the face image or the fingerprint data has not been acquired, the process returns to step 206, and if either the face image or the fingerprint data has been acquired, the acquired face image or fingerprint data is stored. Invalidate (step 216) and return to step 206.

  Here, the operations of Step 206 to Step 209 and Step 214 to Step 216, which are the main parts of the present embodiment, will be further described with reference to the timing chart of FIG. In the example shown in FIG. 11, as can be seen from FIG. 11 (4), the times T <b> 5 to T <b> 6 and the times T <b> 7 to T <b> 8 are the periods in which it is determined that the hand has been placed. become. In this example, as represented by the face image acquisition signal S5 and the fingerprint data acquisition signal S6, the face image and fingerprint data are acquired during the period of time T5 to T6, and these can be used in step 210. If it is determined that there is, it is stored as a genuine face image and fingerprint data.

  In the example shown in FIG. 11, the period from time T6 to T7 and after time T8 is a period in which it is determined that no hand is placed. In these periods, as described in step 214, it is determined whether both the face image of the user 14 and the fingerprint data of the user 14 were acquired in the period in which the hand was continuously placed immediately before. Is done. For example, when this determination is made after time T8, the face image or fingerprint data acquired at times T6 to T7, which is a period in which the hand is continuously placed immediately before time T8, is determined. During the period from time T6 to T7, only the face image indicated by the signal S7 is acquired and the fingerprint data is not acquired. Therefore, as described in steps 214 to 216, the face image indicated by the signal S7 is It is invalidated.

  As is clear from the above description, in the present embodiment, it is determined whether or not the hand of the user 14 is placed on the fingerprint acquisition unit, and the face image is acquired only during the period in which it is determined that the user 14 is placed. Therefore, when the face image is acquired, the user's hand is always in a state of being restrained with respect to the fingerprint acquisition unit, and the user can be prevented from swapping.

  In the second embodiment, the example in which the acquisition of the face image of the user 14 is permitted during the period in which it is determined that the hand is placed on the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 has been described. In addition, the acquisition of both the face image and the fingerprint data may be permitted. In this case, for example, the CPU 85 performs control so that the foot button 37 and the fingerprint scanner 145 of the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 are operable only during a period when it is determined that the hand is placed on the fingerprint acquisition unit 40. In both cases of the second embodiment and the modified example, the face image and the fingerprint data may be acquired simultaneously, or the face image and the fingerprint data may be acquired before and after.

  In the above example, in order to save power, the position detection operation of the detection unit 144 starts when the finger 13 is placed on the fingerprint acquisition unit 40. However, the position detection operation of the detection unit 144 is After the activation of the image acquisition device 10, it may be always performed during operation.

  The stored biometric information may be a fingerprint image or a feature point of the fingerprint when the biometric information is a fingerprint, for example, in a form usable for biometric authentication. Any form of biological information may be used.

  Furthermore, the configuration of the fingerprint acquisition unit 40 is not limited to the above example, and various configurations are possible as long as they have similar functions. For example, a configuration in which the light source is disposed below the finger and the detection unit is disposed above the finger is also possible.

  When the user desires, the associated information may be transferred to a predetermined base, for example, the management center 66 via the communication line 62, or may be printed out. The controller 33 may store the associated information for a predetermined period.

1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image acquisition device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. External view of the image acquisition device shown in FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a fingerprint acquisition unit provided in the image acquisition apparatus shown in FIG. The figure explaining the position detection method of the detection part with which the image acquisition apparatus shown in FIG. Functional block diagram of the main part of the image acquisition apparatus shown in FIG. The flowchart explaining operation | movement of the image acquisition apparatus shown in FIG. Timing chart for explaining the operation of the image acquisition apparatus shown in FIG. Timing chart for explaining the operation of the image acquisition apparatus shown in FIG. Timing chart for explaining the operation of the image acquisition apparatus shown in FIG. The flowchart explaining operation | movement of the image acquisition apparatus by the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. Timing chart for explaining the operation of the image acquisition device according to the second embodiment of the present invention

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Image acquisition apparatus 12 Shooting room 13 Finger 14 User 15 Face 17 Hand 24 Digital camera 26 CRT display 33 Controller 37 Foot button 40 Fingerprint acquisition part 41 Touch panel 42 Card writer 43 Printer 44 Modem 53 Outlet 62 Communication line 66 Management center 81 Imaging unit 84 Memory 85 CPU
88 Determination unit 141 Prism 142 Light source 143 Optical branching member 144 Detection unit 145 Fingerprint scanner

Claims (6)

In an image acquisition method for acquiring biometric information belonging to a user's hand and the user's face image,
Determining whether the user's hand is placed in the biometric information acquisition means;
In the determination, the acquisition of the face image of the user is permitted only during the period determined to be arranged.   The image acquisition method according to claim 1, wherein the biological information belonging to the hand is a fingerprint. In an image acquisition apparatus having biometric information acquisition means for acquiring biometric information belonging to a user's hand and face image acquisition means for acquiring the face image of the user,
Determination means for determining whether or not the user's hand is arranged in the biological information acquisition means;
An image acquisition apparatus comprising: a control unit that enables the face image acquisition unit to operate only during a period in which it is determined by the determination unit to be disposed.   The image acquisition apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the control unit enables the biological information acquisition unit to operate only during a period in which the determination unit determines that it is arranged. In the determination, when the determination means determines that the user is not arranged, the determination means further includes the face image of the user and the user's hand during the period of continuous arrangement immediately before the arrangement. Determine whether the biometric information to which it belongs has been acquired,
The control means belongs to the user's face image and the user's hand when it is determined that both the user's face image and the biological information belonging to the user's hand are not acquired together. The image acquisition apparatus according to claim 3 or 4, wherein even if one of the biological information is acquired, the one is invalidated.   The image acquisition apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the biological information belonging to the hand is a fingerprint.

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