WO2017047092A1

WO2017047092A1 - Fingerprint reading device

Info

Publication number: WO2017047092A1
Application number: PCT/JP2016/004231
Authority: WO
Inventors: 輝幸樋口; 芳紀幸田
Original assignee: 日本電気株式会社
Priority date: 2015-09-18
Filing date: 2016-09-16
Publication date: 2017-03-23

Abstract

Provided is a fingerprint reading device that is suitable for reading a fingerprint of a person who doesn't put his or her finger on the device. The fingerprint reading device is provided with: a reading part that has a reading surface and reads the fingerprint of a finger that is in contact with the reading surface; and a grip part that extends from the reading part and is gripped by the user during use. The tip of the reading part has a tapered shaped.

Description

Fingerprint reader

The present invention relates to a fingerprint reader.

In this technical field, there is known an authentication device that includes a light source unit and an imaging unit and has a space in which a finger is inserted during authentication between the light source unit and the imaging unit. And patent document 1 is disclosing the authentication apparatus provided with the button switch pressed down with the finger inserted in the space. Patent Document 1 describes that when a switch is pressed down, authentication starts and a finger image captured by a camera of an imaging unit is captured in a memory.

Patent Document 2 discloses a fingerprint input device including a sensor element for reading a fingerprint and a switch disposed on a surface opposite to the sensor element with a casing interposed therebetween. Patent Document 2 describes that when the switch is pressed, an input start signal is sent to the control unit, and the fingerprint input device is activated by the input start signal.

Patent Document 3 discloses a mobile terminal including a fingerprint authentication sensor provided on a liquid crystal panel and a reading start switch provided on a side surface. Patent Document 3 describes that when a finger is placed on the liquid crystal panel, the reading start switch can be pressed with another finger.

Patent Document 4 includes a tray that can be slid to a deployment position, a daughter board attached to the tray, a fingerprint sensor device placed on the daughter board, and a mother board on which a pair of pad connectors are placed. An IC card is disclosed. Patent Document 4 describes that when the contact portion of the pad connector is connected to the corresponding pad of the daughter board, the switch is closed and power is supplied from the power source to the fingerprint sensor device.

Patent Document 5 discloses a mobile phone including a housing, a display mounted on the housing, and a processor / driving circuit connected to the finger sensor, to which the finger sensor is attached. Further, Patent Document 5 discloses a configuration in which the finger sensor has a second substrate and a mechanical button switch provided on the opposite side of the second substrate.

Patent Document 6 discloses a fingerprint input device having a fiber optic plate having a finger contact surface and a light source that generates near-infrared light. This near-infrared light source is arranged at four positions on the left and right sides of the finger in addition to the vicinity of the first joint of the finger.

Japanese Patent No. 4935923 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-011002 JP 2002-159052 A JP 2001-143045 A Special table 2013-534008 gazette Japanese Patent No. 3751872

Patent Documents 1 to 6 described above disclose techniques for targeting a person with a finger in a fingerprint reader. However, the fingerprint readers of Patent Documents 1 to 6 are not suitable for reading fingerprints of people who cannot place their fingers on the device. For example, it was not suitable for reading fingerprints of children or bedridden sick people.

In order to solve the above problems, a fingerprint reading apparatus as an example of the present invention has a reading surface, a reading portion that reads a fingerprint of a finger that contacts the reading surface, and extends from the reading portion. And a tip of the reading unit having a tapered shape.

In addition, a fingerprint reading apparatus as another example of the present invention has a reading surface, a reading unit that reads a fingerprint of a finger that contacts the reading surface, and extends from the reading unit, and is gripped by a user during use. And a reading switch provided on the holding unit and operated by the user when reading the fingerprint.

This provides a fingerprint reading device suitable for reading a fingerprint of a person who cannot place his / her finger on the device.

Further features of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of embodiments, given by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings.

It is the schematic explaining the usage condition of a fingerprint reader. 1 is a schematic surface view of a fingerprint reading apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic side view along the longitudinal direction of a fingerprint reader. It is a schematic sectional drawing along the longitudinal direction of the center of a fingerprint reader. It is explanatory drawing which shows the light radiate | emitted from a light source. It is explanatory drawing which shows the light radiate | emitted from a light source. It is a schematic back view of a fingerprint reader. It is a schematic perspective view of the fingerprint reader which concerns on 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a schematic surface view of the fingerprint reader according to the third embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic block diagram of the fingerprint reader which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a schematic perspective view of the fingerprint reader which concerns on the modification of this invention. It is a schematic side view along the longitudinal direction of the fingerprint reader which concerns on the modification of this invention. It is a schematic side view along the longitudinal direction of the fingerprint reader which concerns on the modification of this invention.

Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, dimensions, materials, shapes, relative positions of components, and the like described in the following embodiments are arbitrary and can be changed according to the configuration of the apparatus to which the present invention is applied or various conditions. In addition, unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments specifically described below.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 shows a usage mode of the fingerprint reading apparatus 100 according to the first embodiment. Unlike a normal fingerprint reading apparatus, the fingerprint reading apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 1 can be used by being inserted between human fingers to be fingerprints. With this configuration, the fingerprint reading device 100 can slide the fingerprint reading device 100 under the finger of a person who cannot place his / her finger on the fingerprint reading device 100. For example, children, especially newborns and babies, may be sleeping with their fists grasped, and fingerprints can be read without waking the sleeping child. A user who is an assistant for fingerprint reading grips the grip 1 of the fingerprint reader 100 and inserts the reader 2 into, for example, a gap between the child's thumb and index finger. Alternatively, the user places the finger on the reading unit 2 so that the child's finger contacts the reading surface of the reading unit 2.

Therefore, the fingerprint reading apparatus 100 includes a reading surface 2 that reads a fingerprint of a finger that contacts the reading surface, and a grip portion 1 that extends from the reading portion and is gripped by the user when in use. ing. The fingerprint reader 100 is connected to a computer by wire or wirelessly. Then, when the user presses the reading switch 11 (illustrated by a dotted line), reading of the fingerprint is started, and a pair of light sources irradiates the finger with light. And the sensor part of the reading part 2 images the light radiate | emitted from the surface of the finger | toe, and the fingerprint reader 100 transmits the data of the read fingerprint to a computer.

The computer displays a fingerprint image based on the fingerprint data received from the fingerprint reader 100 on a display connected to the computer. Thereafter, the user presses the reading switch 11 of the fingerprint reading device 100 at a timing when an appropriate fingerprint is displayed on the display. As a result, the computer stores the image data of the fingerprint displayed on the display. This fingerprint reading is preferably performed a total of six times for the thumb and index finger of both hands and the thumb of both feet. However, if it is difficult to read fingerprints, at least two readings may be performed on the thumbs of both hands.

In the following description, an example in which an imaging device such as a CMOS image sensor is used as a sensor unit will be described. However, as long as it is a sensor for reading a fingerprint, the sensor unit is not limited to a sensor that optically reads the ridgeline and valley of the fingerprint. For example, the sensor unit is a sensor that reads the capacitance generated between the ridgeline or valley of the fingerprint and the sensor surface, a sensor that reads the temperature difference between the ridgeline and valley of the fingerprint, and the ridgeline and valley of the fingerprint on the sensor input surface. A sensor that reads a difference in applied pressure may be used.

Subsequently, the fingerprint reading apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2 shows the surface of the fingerprint reading apparatus 100 and corresponds to the reading surface 21 side of the reading unit 2. 3 shows a side surface along the longitudinal direction of the fingerprint reader 100, and FIG. 4 shows a cross section taken along the line IV-IV in FIG. FIG. 5 corresponds to a cross section along a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the reading unit 2 and shows a state where the finger placed on the reading surface 21 is viewed from the front end side. FIG. 6 shows the back surface of the fingerprint reader 100. The back surface means a surface opposite to the reading surface 21 when the reading surface 21 side is the front surface. The fingerprint reader 100 has a symmetrical shape. Therefore, in description of the side surface along a longitudinal direction, only one side surface is demonstrated. However, the fingerprint reading apparatus 100 has substantially the same configuration on the other side surface where the description is omitted.

The fingerprint reading apparatus 100 includes a reading unit 2 that reads a fingerprint, and the reading unit 2 has a mounting surface on which a finger is placed and functions as a placing unit on which the finger is placed. The reading unit 2 includes two side light sources as a pair of light sources arranged so as to sandwich the reading surface 21 so as to irradiate light to the reading surface 21 in contact with the finger and the finger in contact with the reading surface 21. 22. In FIG. 2, the side light sources 22 are linear light sources that respectively extend along a pair of opposing sides of the reading surface 21. Specifically, the linear light source is a plurality of

light sources

22a, 22b, 22c, and 22d arranged side by side along a pair of sides, for example, four near infrared LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) along each of the pair of sides. )have. This linear light source is formed by wrapping a plurality of

light sources

22a, 22b, 22c, and 22d with a translucent plastic material. The plurality of

light sources

22a, 22b, 22c, and 22d irradiate near infrared light having a wavelength of, for example, 820 to 980 nm from both sides of the finger pressed against the reading surface 21 to both sides of the finger.

The side light source 22 is provided along a pair of sides extending in the longitudinal direction of the reading surface 21. When a child places his / her finger on the reading unit 2, the finger may be placed near the end of the reading surface 21 (near the tip 31 of the fingerprint reading device 100). In other words, the finger may contact the vicinity of the end on the side where the reading surface 21 is inserted with respect to the finger. Therefore, when the light source is arranged at a position facing the tip of the finger (the center side of the fingerprint reading apparatus 100), it is difficult to make a sufficient amount of light incident on the finger because the distance from the light source to the finger is long. Therefore, if the side light source 22 is provided along a pair of sides extending in the longitudinal direction, a sufficient amount of light can be incident on the child's finger. Note that the side light source 22 may be provided along a pair of sides extending in a direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction of the reading surface 21 as long as a finger can be placed in the center of the reading surface 21. Further, the light source may be provided along the four sides so as to surround the rectangular reading surface 21.

Further, the fingerprint reading apparatus 100 includes a grip unit 1 that functions as a user's handle when reading a fingerprint. The grasping unit 1 is formed integrally with the reading unit 2 so as to extend from the reading unit 2. Further, the grasping unit 1 is provided with a reading switch 11 (illustrated by a dotted line) that is operated by a user when starting to read a fingerprint. In addition, the grip unit 1 is provided with a power lamp 12, and light from the power lamp 12 passes through the casing of the fingerprint reader 100. Thereby, the user can visually recognize the power ON or the power OFF from the outside. The power lamp 12 is, for example, a green LED. Further, the power lamp 12 may be turned on during image reading. Further, the power lamp 12 may be turned on when the user starts reading a fingerprint with the reading switch 11. The color with which the power lamp 12 is lit can be different for each function.

As shown in FIG. 3, the gripping unit 1 and the reading unit 2 are integrally formed with a resin casing 3. The holding unit 1 is provided with a reading switch 11, and the reading switch 11 is embedded so as to be flush with the back surface of the holding unit 1. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the user from erroneously pressing the reading switch 11 when gripping the grip portion 1. In FIG. 3, the reading switch 11 that cannot be seen from the side is shown by a dotted line for convenience. The housing 3 may be formed of metal, and the metal housing 3 can dissipate heat more efficiently than the resin housing 3.

Further, the tip 31 of the reading unit 2 (the end inserted between the fingers in the reading unit 2) has a tapered shape. In other words, the thickness of the tip 31 is continuously reduced. For this reason, in FIG. 3, at the tip 31 of the reading unit 2, the surface opposite to the reading surface 21 is inclined or curved toward the reading surface 21. Further, the surface on the reading surface 21 side of the tip 31 is also inclined or curved toward the back surface. With this tapered shape, when the user inserts the reading unit 2 between the fingers, the tip 31 of the reading unit 2 can be smoothly inserted between the fingers. That is, since the tip 31 is thin due to the tapered shape, the reading unit 2 can be inserted while pushing the finger open even in a narrow gap between the fingers of the child.

Further, the tapered shape extends in a direction orthogonal to the extending direction of the side light source 22 that is a linear light source. That is, the taper shape extends in the direction orthogonal to the longitudinal direction along the tip 31 of the reading unit 2. Thereby, when a user inserts reading part 2 between fingers, a finger does not hit side light source 22, but tip 31 can be easily inserted in a crevice between fingers. This tapered shape can be formed at the same time when the resin casing 3 is molded. Further, both sides of the housing 3 can be cut to form a tapered shape. Furthermore, in the case of the metal housing 3, the tip 31 can be bent to form a tapered shape.

The grip part 1 and the reading part 2 are formed so that their back surfaces are flush with each other. Therefore, when the user inserts the reading unit 2 between fingers, the back surface of the housing 3 can be prevented from being caught by the fingers. On the other hand, on the surface side of the fingerprint reading device 100, the portion where the side light source 22 of the reading unit 2 is provided is thicker than the grip unit 1. That is, the side light source 22 protrudes from the surface of the grip portion 1. As shown in FIG. 4, the side light source 22 also protrudes from the protective glass 23 that constitutes the reading surface 21 of the reading unit 2. On the back side of the protective glass 23, for example, a CMOS image sensor is disposed as the sensor unit 25.

Thus, at least the top of the side light source 22 protrudes from the reading surface 21. Thereby, the light emission part of the side light source 22 can be brought closer to the back side of the finger, and a larger amount of light can be irradiated to the finger, so that deterioration in image quality can be prevented. In addition, the part below the light emission part of the side light source 22 is located in the side of the protective glass 23 or the sensor part 25 substantially.

Sensor unit 25 images a fingerprint by light scattered inside the finger and emitted from the surface of the finger. As indicated by arrows in FIG. 5B, the near-infrared light emitted from the side light source 22 is incident on the finger in contact with the protective glass 23, scattered therein, and emitted from the surface of the finger. The sensor unit 25 images near-infrared light that enters through the protective glass 23. However, in the fingerprint reading apparatus 100 shown in FIG. 5A, the side light source 22 is arranged with reference to the size of an adult finger illustrated by a dotted line. For this reason, when reading the fingerprint of a child's finger illustrated by a solid line, there is a possibility that a sufficient amount of light from the side light source 22 does not enter the finger. That is, since the finger of a child is thinner and thinner than the finger of an adult, when the side light source 22 emits light upward, a sufficient amount of light is not applied to the finger. This degrades the image quality of the fingerprint.

Furthermore, since the side light source 22 is arranged on the side of the finger, the amount of light is lower at the center of the reading surface 21 far from the side light source 22 than at both sides of the reading surface 21. As a result, contrast is uneven between the central portion and both side portions of the fingerprint, and the image quality of the fingerprint is degraded. Therefore, in the first embodiment, the side light source 22 of the reading unit 2 is inclined toward the inside of the reading surface 21 with respect to the reading surface 21 as shown in FIG. 5B. That is, the side light source 22 is arranged in a posture inclined with respect to the reading surface 21 toward the center of the reading surface 21 so as to emit light toward the back side of the finger. Thereby, since a sufficient amount of light can be irradiated to the child's finger, deterioration of the image quality can be prevented. Furthermore, since the amount of light scattered at the central portion of the finger increases, unevenness in contrast can be reduced and deterioration in image quality due to unevenness in contrast can be prevented. Note that the side light source 22 can be tilted so that the angle of the optical axis with respect to the reading surface 21 falls within a range of, for example, greater than 0 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

At the contact portion where the finger is in contact with the protective glass 23, light is not emitted into the air, so light loss at the interface between the finger and the air layer is reduced. As a result, the contact portion is displayed brightly in the captured fingerprint image. On the other hand, in the non-contact portion where the finger is not in contact with the protective glass 23, light is emitted into the air, so that light loss occurs at the interface between the finger and the air layer. As a result, in the captured fingerprint image, the non-contact part is displayed darker than the contact part. Thereby, a fingerprint is shown as an image pattern of a dark part and a bright part. That is, the bright contact portion corresponds to the ridge line of the fingerprint, and the dark non-contact portion corresponds to the valley portion of the fingerprint.

Furthermore, the side light source 22 is inclined in a range where the emitted light does not directly enter the reading surface 21. That is, as shown in FIG. 5B, the side light source 22 is arranged such that the reading surface 21 (protective glass 23) is not located within the range of the irradiation angle. Thereby, it can prevent that the light radiate | emitted from the side light source 22 injects into the sensor part 25 directly, and produces the nonuniformity in contrast. Instead of adjusting the inclination angle of the side light source 22, the irradiation angle may be adjusted using a light shielding member or a diaphragm.

Returning to FIG. 4, the fingerprint reader 100 will be described. The sensor unit 25 is electrically connected to the main body substrate 15 provided in the grip unit 1. The side light source 22 of the reading unit 2 is also electrically connected to the main body substrate 15. A reading switch 11 is disposed on the main body substrate 15, and the fingerprint is read by the user operating the reading switch 11. In addition, a port 16 connected to, for example, a USB connector cable is disposed on the main body substrate 15 as a terminal cable. The fingerprint data imaged by the sensor unit 25 is output to a computer (not shown) via a terminal cable connected to the port 16. The port 16 is provided at the end of the fingerprint reading apparatus 100 opposite to the reading unit 2.

Below the sensor unit 25, a heat radiating member made of, for example, brass, aluminum, iron, copper, or the like is disposed as the heat sink 26. The heat sink 26 is in contact with the substrate of the sensor unit 25 and the housing 3. The heat generated from the sensor unit 25 is transmitted to the housing 3 via the heat sink 26 and released to the outside. In FIG. 6, three heat sinks 26 (illustrated by dotted lines) are arranged in a U shape so as to at least partially surround the sensor unit 25. However, the number of heat sinks 26 may be two or less, or four or more, and may be one heat sink 26 formed in a U shape. A part of the heat sink 26 may be exposed to the outside from the housing 3.

As shown in FIG. 6, the reading switch 11 provided in the grip portion 1 is exposed on the back surface of the fingerprint reading device 100. That is, the reading switch 11 is provided on the surface opposite to the reading surface 21. The reading switch 11 is a mechanical push button switch, but a switch constituted by an electrical, capacitive or pressure contact sensor may be used instead of the mechanical switch. A recess 13 is formed on the surface of the reading switch 11. Accordingly, the user can specify the position of the reading switch 11 without visually recognizing only the touch of the finger touching the recess 13.

Since the reading switch 11 is provided on the grip portion 1, particularly on the back surface of the grip portion 1, when the user inserts the reading portion 2 between fingers, the reading switch 11 comes into contact with a child's finger. Can be prevented. Furthermore, in a state where the reading unit 2 is inserted into the gap between the fingers, the user can press down the reading switch 11 while pressing the child's finger to determine an appropriate reading timing. Further, the reading switch 11 is embedded in the grip portion 1 so as to be flush with the surface opposite to the reading surface 21. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the reading switch 11 from being pushed down when the fingerprint reading device 100 is placed. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent the reading switch 11 from being pushed down accidentally when the user grips the grip portion 1.

According to the first embodiment described above, the fingerprint reading apparatus 100 suitable for reading a fingerprint of a person who cannot place his / her finger on the apparatus is provided. In addition, the fingerprint reader 100 according to the first embodiment can accurately read fingerprints of children, particularly newborns and infants. Further, by providing the reading switch 11 in the grip portion 1, the user can determine the reading timing while pressing the finger of the child. Thus, even when a child's fingerprint is read, the user can assist in reading and the fingerprint can be read at an appropriate timing. As a result, a high-quality fingerprint can be read. There is a need to collect fingerprints of children, especially newborns less than one month old, and infants less than 12 months old. For example, there is a need to manage history information by reading a child's fingerprint in vaccination in developing countries. By using the fingerprint reader 100 according to the first embodiment, fingerprints can be collected without waking up a sleeping child.

Note that the fingerprint reading apparatus 100 may further include a fixing guide for fixing the hand. With the fixed guide, the child's hand can be fixed at a position suitable for imaging with a simple structure. Also, the child may move his hand without being able to stand still when reading the fingerprint. However, by providing a fixing guide for fixing the hand, the position of the finger can be fixed to prevent image blurring. In addition, since it is not necessary to hold the child's arm so as not to move, the burden on the user can be reduced.

Also, the reading switch 11 can be provided on a surface other than the back surface of the grip portion 1, for example, a side surface or a surface of the grip portion 1. However, it is preferable to provide the reading switch 11 on the back surface of the grip portion 1 because there is a possibility that the fingerprint reading device 100 may be pushed down accidentally when the fingerprint reading device 100 is placed.

[Second Embodiment]
Subsequently, a fingerprint reading apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it includes a back light source 5 that irradiates light on the back of a finger and a finger guide 6 that guides the finger onto the reading surface 21. In the description of the second embodiment, differences from the first embodiment will be described, the same reference numerals will be given to the components described in the first embodiment, and description thereof will be omitted. Except where specifically described, the constituent elements having the same reference numerals perform substantially the same operations and functions, and the effects thereof are also substantially the same.

As shown in FIG. 7, the fingerprint reading apparatus 200 according to the second embodiment further includes a back light source 5 that irradiates light from a position facing the reading surface 21 toward the back of the finger. Further, the fingerprint reading device 200 includes a finger guide 6 facing the reading surface 21, and the back light source 5 is provided on the finger guide 6. The back light source 5 is a linear light source extending in the longitudinal direction, like the linear side light source 22 extending along a pair of sides of the reading surface 21. Furthermore, the back light source 5 has, for example, three near infrared LEDs as a plurality of light sources arranged side by side along the longitudinal direction. And the back light source 5 is arrange | positioned in the finger guide 6 formed with the translucent plastic material. The back light source 5 irradiates near infrared light having a wavelength of, for example, 820 to 980 nm on the back of the finger from above the finger in contact with the reading surface 21.

In the central portion of the reading surface 21 far from the side light source 22, the amount of light is lower than that on both sides of the reading surface 21. As a result, contrast is uneven between the central portion and both side portions of the fingerprint, and the image quality of the fingerprint is degraded. In this regard, according to the fingerprint reader 200 according to the second embodiment, the back light source 5 irradiates light toward the back of the finger. Thereby, since a sufficient amount of light can be irradiated to the child's finger, deterioration of the image quality can be prevented. Furthermore, since the amount of light scattered at the central portion of the finger increases, it is possible to reduce the unevenness of contrast and prevent the image quality from being deteriorated.

Further, the finger guide 6 has a curved shape along the outer shape of the finger as shown in FIG. The finger guide 6 detachably attached to the fingerprint reading device 200 includes two terminal pins 61 electrically connected to the main body substrate 15, a base 62 provided with the terminal pins 61, and a base 62. And a guide portion 63 protruding on the reading surface 21. The guide part 63 is made of a transparent plastic material that transmits visible light, and the back light source 5 is embedded in the guide part 63. The base 62 and the back light source 5 of the guide 63 are electrically connected by a wiring 64. Thereby, the back light source 5 is electrically connected to the main body substrate 15 via the wiring 64 and the terminal pins 61.

The user can attach the finger guide 6 to the fingerprint reading apparatus 200 so as to cover the finger from above with the child's finger pressed against the reading surface 21. In the attached state, the terminal pin 61 of the finger guide 6 is inserted into the two pin holes 17 formed in the grip portion 1. Thereby, the back light source 5 of the finger guide 6 is electrically connected to the main body substrate 15. In addition, the guide part 63 of the finger guide 6 has a size and a shape so as not to overlap the side light source 22 in a state where the finger is sandwiched. More specifically, the guide portion 63 is configured such that a gap through which light from the side light source 22 passes is generated between the guide portion 63 and the reading surface 21 when a finger is sandwiched. Thereby, it can prevent that the guide part 63 blocks the light which radiate | emits from the side light source 22, and injects into a finger | toe.

The user can hold the child's finger between the finger guide 6 and the reading surface 21 by pressing the finger guide 6 from above. As a result, the finger is pressed against the reading surface 21 via the finger guide 6, so that the child's finger can be fixed at a position suitable for imaging a fingerprint with a simple structure. In particular, since a child's finger is softer than an adult's finger, a part of the finger may be separated from the reading surface 21 simply by bringing the finger into contact with the reading surface 21. In addition, the child may move his / her finger without being able to stand still when reading the fingerprint. In this regard, according to the finger guide 6 according to the second embodiment, by holding the finger, the finger can be fixed to prevent image blurring.

In the second embodiment, the surface on the reading surface 21 side of the tip 231 is substantially flat and is not inclined or curved. Even in this case, since the back surface of the tip 231 is inclined, the thickness of the tip 231 is continuously reduced. Therefore, when the user inserts the reading unit 2 between the fingers, the tip 231 of the reading unit 2 can be smoothly inserted between the fingers. Furthermore, the guide part 63 of the finger guide 6 has a size and a shape so as not to overlap the tip 231 of the reading part 2 in a state where the finger is sandwiched. More specifically, the guide part 63 is configured such that the tip 231 is exposed from the guide part 63 when a finger is sandwiched. Thereby, when a user inserts the reading part 2 between fingers, it can prevent that the guide part 63 contacts a child's finger.

Furthermore, a reflection layer that reflects near-infrared light may be formed in a region excluding the rear light source 5 on the reading surface 21 side of the guide portion 63. By this reflective layer, the light from the side light source 22 can be reflected toward the back of the finger. Thereby, since a sufficient amount of light can be irradiated to the child's finger, deterioration of the image quality can be prevented. Furthermore, since the amount of light scattered at the central portion of the finger increases, it is possible to reduce the unevenness of contrast and prevent the image quality from being deteriorated.

Also, the finger guide 6 can be fixed to the fingerprint reader 200. For example, the finger guide 6 having the guide portion 63 protruding on the reading surface 21 and the back light source 5 can be fixed to the fingerprint reading device 200. Thereby, if a child's finger is inserted along the fixed finger guide 6, the finger can reach a correct position. Further, in this finger guide 6, the back light source 5 is electrically connected to the main body substrate 15 of the fingerprint reading device 200 by wiring extending in the guide portion 63.

The second embodiment described above also provides a fingerprint reading apparatus 200 suitable for reading a fingerprint of a person who cannot place his / her finger on the apparatus. Also, the fingerprint reader 200 according to the second embodiment can accurately read the fingerprints of children, particularly newborns and infants. Further, the user can determine the reading timing while pressing the child's finger. As a result, a fingerprint can be read at an appropriate timing, and as a result, a high-quality fingerprint can be read. The finger guide 6 can guide the child's finger to a position suitable for imaging.

In the second embodiment, the back light source 5 is provided in the center of the guide portion 63, but the back light source 5 may be provided on both end sides along the longitudinal direction of the guide portion 63. Further, the back light source 5 may be provided at the center and both ends of the guide portion 63, respectively.

[Third Embodiment]
Subsequently, a fingerprint reading apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. The third embodiment is different from the first and second embodiments in that an instruction unit 314 that displays an instruction for a user is provided in the grip unit 1. In the description of the third embodiment, differences from the first and second embodiments will be described, and the same reference numerals will be given to the components described in the first and second embodiments, and the description thereof will be made. Omitted. Except where specifically described, the constituent elements having the same reference numerals perform substantially the same operations and functions, and the effects thereof are also substantially the same.

In the third embodiment, an instruction unit 314 is provided on the reading surface 21 side of the fingerprint reading device 300, that is, on the surface of the grip unit 1. The instruction unit 314 has a frame line imitating the shape of the thumbs and index fingers of both hands and the thumbs of both feet. In the frame line, a lamp 314a indicating the index finger of the right hand, a lamp 314b indicating the thumb of the right hand, a lamp 314c indicating the index finger of the left hand, a lamp 314d indicating the thumb of the left hand, and the thumb of the right foot are shown. A lamp 314e and a lamp 314f indicating the thumb of the left foot are provided. These six lamps are, for example, green LEDs. Then, it can be turned on and off to indicate the order of fingerprint reading to the user.

For example, when reading of a fingerprint is started, only the lamp 314a is lit first to instruct the user to read the fingerprint of the right index finger. After reading the fingerprint, the lamp 314a is turned off and the lamp 314b is turned on to instruct the user to read the fingerprint of the thumb of the right hand. Thereafter, the lamp 314c, the lamp 314d, the lamp 314e, and the lamp 314f are lit in this order to instruct the user to read the fingerprints of the corresponding fingers. As a result, it is possible to prevent fingerprint reading omission.

Subsequently, the control of the fingerprint reading apparatus 300 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing each part of the fingerprint reading device 300, and shows the sensor unit 25, the instruction unit 314, and the main body substrate 15 (hereinafter also referred to as the control unit 15) that functions as the control unit of the fingerprint reading device 300. ing. The control unit 15 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like. The control unit 15 is connected to an external computer wirelessly or by wire. This computer has a CPU, ROM, RAM, HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and the like.

The sensor unit 25 has a pixel array in which a plurality of pixels are two-dimensionally arranged. Each pixel photoelectrically converts near-infrared light to accumulate charges and generates a pixel signal. A conversion element is arranged. Further, the sensor unit 25 generates a timing signal and outputs it, a vertical scanning circuit that scans pixels for each row according to the timing signal, and horizontal scanning that scans pixels for each column according to the timing signal. Circuit. Then, pixel signals are read from the pixels in the column scanned by the horizontal scanning circuit in the plurality of pixels in the row scanned by the vertical scanning circuit.

The read pixel signal is output to an A / D conversion circuit (not shown) through a correlated double sampling circuit or the like. Then, the digital signal converted from the analog signal by the A / D conversion circuit is processed by a signal processing circuit (not shown) and output to the control unit 15 as image data constituting a fingerprint image. The control unit 15 transfers the received image data to the computer.

As described above, the instruction unit 314 has the lamps 314a to 314f that are LEDs. Each of the lamps 314a to 314f is connected to a current limiting resistor that limits the current flowing through the LED and a transistor that functions as a switch. Since the lamps 314a to 314f have the same configuration, the lamp 314a will be described below as an example.

One terminal of a current limiting resistor is connected to the anode side terminal of the lamp 314a, and the collector of the transistor is connected to the cathode side terminal of the lamp 314a. The power supply voltage VDD is input to the other terminal of the current limiting resistor. In addition, the base of the transistor is connected to the control unit 15, and the transistor is turned on and off by a switching signal input from the control unit 15 to the base. The lamp 314a is turned on or off when the transistor is switched on and off. Note that the lamps 314b to 314f have the same configuration as the lamp 314a.

Further, the above-described reading switch 11 is connected to the control unit 15. When the user depresses the reading switch 11, an instruction signal is output to the control unit 15. Upon receiving the instruction signal, the control unit 15 causes the sensor unit 25 to start reading the fingerprint, and the sensor unit 25 outputs the read fingerprint image data to the control unit 15. At the same time, the control unit 15 outputs a pressing signal indicating that the reading switch 11 has been pressed down to the computer. Then, the computer that has received the pressing signal counts the number of pressings, and sequentially turns on or off the lamps 314a to 314f according to the number of pressings.

For example, when the reading switch 11 is pressed down for the first time, the control unit 15 turns on the sensor unit 25 to cause the sensor unit 25 to start reading a fingerprint and output a pressing signal. The computer that has received the first press signal determines that reading of the fingerprint of the index finger of the right hand has started. Then, the computer outputs a lighting signal that instructs the control unit 15 to light the lamp 314a. Receiving the lighting signal, the control unit 15 inputs a high-level switching signal to the transistor connected to the lamp 314a to light the lamp 314a.

Next, when the reading switch 11 is pushed down for the second time, the computer that has received the second pressing signal determines that the reading of the fingerprint of the index finger of the right hand has been completed. The computer stores the image data received from the control unit 15 and outputs a turn-off signal that instructs the control unit 15 to turn off the lamp 314a. Receiving the turn-off signal, the control unit 15 inputs a low-level switching signal to the transistor connected to the lamp 314a to turn off the lamp 314a. At the same time, the control unit 15 causes the sensor unit 25 to finish reading the fingerprint, and the sensor unit 25 is turned off.

Thereafter, similarly, the computer that has received the third pressing signal outputs a lighting signal instructing lighting of the lamp 314b. The computer that has received the fourth press signal saves the image data of the right thumb thumbprint and outputs a turn-off signal that instructs the lamp 314b to turn off. Thereafter, each time the reading switch 11 is depressed, the computer controls the instruction unit 314 so that the lamps 314c to 314f are turned on or off in order.

When the reading switch 11 is pushed down for the second time, the computer stores the image data of the fingerprint of the index finger of the right hand and turns off the lamp 314a and turns on the lamp 314b. A signal may be output. In this case, when the reading switch 11 is pushed down for the third time, the computer stores the image data of the fingerprint of the thumb of the right hand, and instructs the lamp 314c to turn off and the lamp 314c to turn on. A lighting signal is output.

Thereafter, each time the reading switch 11 is pushed down, the computer stores the image data received from the control unit 15 and controls the instruction unit 314. Accordingly, the lamps 314c to 314f are turned on or off in order.

Furthermore, instead of the computer, the control unit 15 may count the number of times of pressing, and the lamps 314a to 314f may be sequentially turned on or off according to the number of times of pressing. For example, when the reading switch 11 is pushed down for the first time, the control unit 15 may cause the sensor unit 25 to start reading a fingerprint and control the instruction unit 314 to turn on the lamp 314a. Thereafter, when the reading switch 11 is pushed down for the second time, a second instruction signal is output to the control unit 15. Receiving the second instruction signal, the control unit 15 causes the sensor unit 25 to finish reading the fingerprint, and the sensor unit 25 is turned off. At the same time, the control unit 15 inputs a low-level switching signal to the transistor connected to the lamp 314a, and turns off the lamp 314a.

Next, when the reading switch 11 is pressed down for the third time, a third instruction signal is output to the control unit 15. Receiving the third instruction signal, the control unit 15 causes the sensor unit 25 to start reading the fingerprint and turns on the lamp 314b. Thereafter, when the reading switch 11 is depressed for the fourth time, a fourth instruction signal is output to the control unit 15. Upon receiving the fourth instruction signal, the control unit 15 causes the sensor unit 25 to finish reading the fingerprint and turns off the lamp 314b.

Thereafter, every time the reading switch 11 is pushed down and the sensor unit 25 starts reading a fingerprint, the control unit 15 similarly controls the instruction unit 314. As a result, the lamps 314c to 314f are turned on in order. Further, every time the reading switch 11 is pushed down and the sensor unit 25 finishes reading the fingerprint, the control unit 15 similarly controls the instruction unit 314. As a result, the lamps 314c to 314f are sequentially turned off.

The instruction unit 314 may be a display capable of displaying characters or images. In this case, the instruction unit 314 displays an image simulating the thumb and index finger of both hands and the thumb of both feet, for example. When reading the fingerprint, the instruction unit 314 displays an image of the index finger of the right hand and instructs the user to read the fingerprint. After reading the fingerprint, the instruction unit 314 displays an image of the thumb of the right hand and instructs the user to read the fingerprint. Thereafter, the instruction unit 314 sequentially displays the images of the left hand and both toes, and instructs the user to read each fingerprint. As a result, it is possible to prevent fingerprint reading omission. In addition, the instruction unit 314 may display a finger that has not been subjected to fingerprint reading and instruct the user to read the fingerprint.

Furthermore, the instruction unit 314 is not limited to a configuration that instructs the user to read a fingerprint. For example, instead of the power lamp 12, the instruction unit 314 may indicate to the user whether the power is on or off. In addition, the instruction unit 314 may instruct a warning or instruct reading again when the quality (image quality) of the read fingerprint is low.

When the instruction unit 314 instructs a warning, for example, the computer that has received the fingerprint image data determines whether the image quality is good or bad. When the image does not satisfy the predetermined quality, for example, when the luminance unevenness in the image exceeds the predetermined range, the computer determines that the image is a low quality image and outputs the determination result to the control unit 15. Receiving the determination result indicating that the quality is low, the control unit 15 controls the instruction unit 314 to blink the lamps 314a to 314f. Thereby, the instruction unit 314 can display a warning to the user.

The third embodiment described above also provides a fingerprint reading device 300 suitable for reading a fingerprint of a person who cannot place his / her finger on the device. Also, the fingerprint reader 300 according to the third embodiment can accurately read the fingerprints of children, particularly newborns and infants. Further, the user can determine the reading timing while pressing the child's finger. As a result, a fingerprint can be read at an appropriate timing, and as a result, a high-quality fingerprint can be read. Further, by instructing the user to read the fingerprint, it is possible to prevent the reading omission of the fingerprint.

As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated with reference to each embodiment, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment. Inventions modified within the scope not departing from the present invention and inventions equivalent to the present invention are also included in the present invention. In addition, the above-described embodiments and modifications can be combined as appropriate without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[Deformation]
For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the grip 1 of the fingerprint reader 400 may be provided with a non-slip 432 in order to prevent the user's hand from slipping. A recess for accommodating the user's finger is formed between the slip stoppers 432. Thereby, even if a child moves his / her hand when reading a fingerprint, the fingerprint reader 400 can be prevented from slipping from the user's hand. For example, the anti-slip 432 is a linear protrusion provided on the side surface of the grip portion 1. This protrusion may be formed on the housing 3, or a protrusion separate from the housing 3 may be bonded to the housing 3.

Further, as shown in FIG. 10, the grip 1 of the fingerprint reader 400 may be extended from the reader 2 so as to be bent. Thereby, even if a child pulls the reading part 2 at the time of reading of a fingerprint, it can suppress that the fingerprint reader 400 is pulled out from a user's hand. That is, since the reading unit 2 is pulled in a different direction from the extending direction of the gripping unit 1 while the user is gripping the gripping unit 1, the user can grip the gripping unit 1 and prevent the pulling out. In FIG. 10, the grip 1 is extended from the reading unit 2 so as to be bent at a substantially right angle. However, the grip unit 1 may be extended so as to bend so that the grip unit 1 is inclined from the reading unit 2.

Further, as shown in FIG. 10, the distal end 431 of the reading unit 2 may be a separate body from the housing 3. For example, the taper shape of the reading unit 2 may be configured by adhering a resin tip 431 having a taper shape to the end surface of the housing 3. Thereby, it is not necessary to form a taper shape in the housing 3. In particular, when the housing 3 is made of metal, the fingerprint reader 400 can be manufactured at a lower cost.

Furthermore, a modified embodiment in which a part of the configuration described in each of the above embodiments is omitted is also included in the present invention. Hereinafter, a fingerprint reading apparatus 500 according to such a modified embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 shows a side surface of the fingerprint reading device 500 along the longitudinal direction. The fingerprint reader 500 has a symmetrical shape. Therefore, in FIG. 11, only one side is demonstrated. However, the fingerprint reading device 500 has substantially the same configuration on the other side where the description is omitted.

In the fingerprint reader 500, the reading switch 11 is omitted. Furthermore, the fingerprint reading device 500 includes two side light sources 522 as a pair of light sources arranged on substantially the same plane as the reading surface 21 so as to irradiate the finger that contacts the reading surface 21 with light. Yes. The side light source 522 is a point light source arranged with the reading surface 21 interposed therebetween. And the side light source 522 has one near-infrared LED each wrapped with the translucent plastic material. Further, the side light source 522 is arranged so that the top portion thereof is substantially flush with the reading surface 21.

On the other hand, the fingerprint reading device 500 also includes a reading unit 502 that reads a fingerprint of a finger that contacts the reading surface 21, and a holding unit 1 that extends from the reading unit 502 and is held by a user when in use. The reading unit 502 includes a sensor unit 25 (not shown) for reading a fingerprint. The tip 31 of the reading unit 502 has a tapered shape.

Even in the fingerprint reading device 500 according to such a modified form, the tip 31 of the reading unit 502 has a tapered shape, and thus is suitable for reading a fingerprint of a person who cannot place his / her finger on the device.

Furthermore, with reference to FIG. 12, a fingerprint reader 600 according to another modification will be described. FIG. 12 shows a side surface of the fingerprint reading device 600 along the longitudinal direction. The fingerprint reader 600 has a symmetrical shape. Therefore, in FIG. 12, only one side is demonstrated. However, the fingerprint reading device 600 has substantially the same configuration also on the other side where the description is omitted.

In the fingerprint reader 600, the tapered shape of the tip 631 of the reading unit 602 is omitted. That is, the tip 631 of the reading unit 602 has a substantially rectangular end surface, and the corner of the tip 631 has a rounded shape. Furthermore, the fingerprint reading device 600 includes two side light sources 622 as a pair of light sources arranged on substantially the same plane as the reading surface 21 so as to irradiate the finger that contacts the reading surface 21 with light. Yes. The side light source 622 is a point light source disposed with the reading surface 21 interposed therebetween. And the side light source 622 has one near infrared LED each wrapped with a translucent plastic material. Further, the side light source 622 is arranged so that the top thereof is substantially flush with the reading surface 21.

On the other hand, the fingerprint reading device 600 also includes a holding unit 1 that extends from the reading unit 602 that reads a fingerprint of a finger that contacts the reading surface 21 and is held by the user when used. The reading unit 602 has a sensor unit 25 (not shown) for reading a fingerprint. The grasping unit 1 is provided with a reading switch 11 (illustrated by a dotted line) that is operated by a user when reading of a fingerprint is started.

Even the fingerprint reading device 600 according to such a modification has the reading switch 11 provided in the grip portion 1, and is therefore suitable for reading a fingerprint of a person who cannot place his / her finger on the device.

In the above embodiment, the finger guide is formed of a material that transmits visible light, but may be formed of a material that blocks visible light. Thereby, when reading a fingerprint outdoors, the amount of sunlight incident on the sensor unit 25 can be reduced. Therefore, the occurrence of unevenness in contrast due to sunlight can be suppressed.

Furthermore, the fingerprint reading apparatus may include a light shielding member having an insertion portion into which a finger is inserted. By covering the reading unit 2 with this light shielding member, the amount of sunlight incident on the sensor unit 25 can be reduced. The protective glass 23 may have a transmission layer that transmits near infrared light and blocks or reflects visible light. Thereby, the quantity of the disturbance light which injects into the sensor part 25 can be reduced. Alternatively, the protective glass 23 may have an ND filter.

Some or all of the above embodiments can be described as in the following supplementary notes, but are not limited thereto.

(Supplementary Note 1) A reading unit that has a reading surface and reads a fingerprint of a finger that contacts the reading surface;
A gripping part extending from the reading part and gripped by the user when in use,
A fingerprint reading device in which a tip of the reading unit has a tapered shape.

(Supplementary note 2) The fingerprint reading device according to supplementary note 1, wherein a surface opposite to the reading surface is inclined or curved toward the reading surface at the tip of the reading unit.

(Additional remark 3) The fingerprint reader of

Additional remark

1 or 2 further provided with the reading switch provided in the said holding part and operated by the said user when reading the said fingerprint.

(Additional remark 4) It further comprises a pair of linear light sources arranged across the reading surface,
4. The fingerprint reading device according to claim 1, wherein the tapered shape extends in a direction orthogonal to an extending direction of the linear light source.

(Additional remark 5) While having a reading surface, the reading part which reads the fingerprint of the finger | toe which contacts the said reading surface,
A gripping part that extends from the reading part and is gripped by a user during use;
A fingerprint reading device, comprising: a reading switch provided on the grip portion and operated by the user when reading the fingerprint.

(Additional remark 6) The said reading switch is a fingerprint reading apparatus of Additional remark 5 provided in the surface on the opposite side to the said reading surface.

(Supplementary note 7) The fingerprint reading device according to supplementary note 5 or 6, wherein the reading switch is embedded in the grip portion so as to be flush with the opposite surface.

(Supplementary Note 8) A sensor unit provided in the reading unit;
The fingerprint reader according to any one of appendices 1 to 7, further comprising a heat sink that contacts the sensor unit.

(Supplementary note 9) The fingerprint reading device according to any one of supplementary notes 1 to 8, wherein the grip unit is provided with an instruction unit that displays an instruction to the user.

(Supplementary note 10) The fingerprint reading apparatus according to any one of supplementary notes 1 to 9, further comprising a finger guide facing the reading surface.

(Supplementary note 11) The fingerprint reading device according to any one of Supplementary notes 1 to 10, wherein the grip portion has a slip stopper.

(Supplementary note 12) The fingerprint reading device according to any one of Supplementary notes 1 to 11, wherein the gripping part is bent and extends from the reading part.

(Additional remark 13) The housing | casing which integrates the said reading part and the said holding part is further provided,
The fingerprint reading device according to any one of appendices 1 to 12, wherein the tip of the reading unit is separate from the housing.

Note that the entire contents of Japanese Patent No. 3751872 are cited and made a part of this application.

As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated with reference to embodiment (and modification), this invention is not limited to the said embodiment (and modification). Various changes that can be understood by those skilled in the art can be made to the configuration and details of the present invention within the scope of the present invention.

This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2015-186012 filed on Sep. 18, 2015, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein.

1: Gripping unit, 2: Reading unit, 6: Finger guide, 11: Reading switch, 21: Reading surface, 22: Pair of linear light sources, 25: Sensor unit, 26: Heat sink, 31: Tip, 100: Fingerprint reading Device, 314: Instruction unit

Claims

A reading unit having a reading surface and reading a fingerprint of a finger in contact with the reading surface;
A gripping part extending from the reading part and gripped by the user when in use,
A fingerprint reading device in which a tip of the reading unit has a tapered shape.
The fingerprint reading device according to claim 1, wherein a surface opposite to the reading surface is inclined or curved toward the reading surface at the tip of the reading unit.
The fingerprint reading apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a reading switch provided in the grip portion and operated by the user when reading the fingerprint.
It further comprises a pair of linear light sources arranged across the reading surface,
4. The fingerprint reading device according to claim 1, wherein the tapered shape extends in a direction orthogonal to an extending direction of the linear light source. 5.
A reading unit having a reading surface and reading a fingerprint of a finger in contact with the reading surface;
A gripping part that extends from the reading part and is gripped by a user during use;
A fingerprint reading device, comprising: a reading switch provided on the grip portion and operated by the user when reading the fingerprint.
The fingerprint reading device according to claim 5, wherein the reading switch is provided on a surface opposite to the reading surface.
The fingerprint reading device according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the reading switch is embedded in the grip portion so as to be flush with a surface opposite to the reading surface.
A sensor unit provided in the reading unit;
The fingerprint reader according to claim 1, further comprising a heat sink that contacts the sensor unit.
The fingerprint reading apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the grip unit is provided with an instruction unit that displays an instruction for the user.
The fingerprint reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a finger guide facing the reading surface.
The fingerprint reading device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the grip portion has a slip stopper.
The fingerprint reading apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the gripping part is bent and extends from the reading part.
A housing for integrating the reading unit and the gripping unit;
The fingerprint reading device according to claim 1, wherein a tip of the reading unit is separate from the housing.