Authentication device and authentication system

Abstract

To provide an authentication device and an authentication system capable of authenticating an object using an iris image.MEANS: An authentication device includes first imaging means having an imaging element and acquiring an iris image by imaging the iris of a subject, and a display displaying information regarding authentication using the iris image on a display surface, the imaging element is positioned on the rear side of the display and overlapping with the display surface when viewed from a direction perpendicular to the display surface, and the optical axis of the first imaging means intersects with the perpendicular direction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to, for example, an authentication system capable of authenticating a subject using an iris image generated by capturing an image of the subject's iris, and to an imaging device that can be used in the authentication system. [Background technology]

[0002] An example of an authentication system capable of authenticating a target using an iris image generated by capturing an image of the target's iris is described in Patent Document 1. Other prior art documents related to this disclosure include Patent Documents 2 to 6. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2018 / 038158 Brochure [Patent Document 2] JP 2000-237169 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2000-220333 A [Patent Document 4] International Publication No. 2021 / 059526 Brochure [Patent Document 5] International Publication No. 2020 / 170914 Brochure [Patent Document 6] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-194599 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present disclosure aims to provide an authentication system and an imaging device that aim to improve upon the techniques described in prior art documents. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] One aspect of the authentication system comprises an imaging means capable of generating an iris image by capturing an image of a subject's iris, and a display means capable of displaying information relating to the authentication of the subject using the iris image, wherein at least a portion of the imaging means is disposed in a space adjacent to the back surface of the display means, which is opposite to the display surface that displays the information, and the imaging means faces in a direction different from the direction in which the subject is present.

[0006] One aspect of the imaging device comprises an imaging means capable of generating an iris image by capturing an image of the iris of a subject, and a display means capable of displaying information regarding authentication of the subject using the iris image, wherein at least a portion of the imaging means is disposed in a space adjacent to the back surface of the display means, which is opposite to the display surface that displays the information, and the imaging means faces in a direction different from the direction in which the subject is present. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of an authentication system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an authentication system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3(a) is a top view showing an example of the configuration of a gate unit in the second embodiment, and FIG. 3(b) is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a gate unit in the second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an imaging unit in the second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the imaging unit in the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of an imaging unit (particularly a cross section including a face camera, a display, and a housing) in the second embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of an imaging unit in the second embodiment (particularly a cross section including an iris camera, a mirror, a display, and a housing). [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the imaging range of the face camera and the imaging range of the iris camera. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing the imaging range of the face camera and the imaging range of the iris camera. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of an imaging unit (particularly a cross section including a rotary motor) in the second embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control unit in the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of the authentication operation performed by the control unit in the second embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a plan view showing the gate unit in which the first flapper gate is in the open state. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 shows an example of a UI screen that is displayed on the display when the face camera captures an image of the face of a target person. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the imaging range of the iris camera and the eyes of a target person. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a plan view showing the gate unit with the second flapper gate in the open state. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 shows an example of a UI screen that is displayed on the display when the target person is successfully authenticated. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a plan view showing the gate unit in which the first and second flapper gates are in the closed state. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 shows an example of a UI screen that is displayed on the display when authentication of a target person fails. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an imaging unit in the third embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing the iris camera and rotating mirror whose position is adjusted. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing the flow of the operation for adjusting the positions of the iris camera and the rotating mirror in the third embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23(a) is a perspective view showing a stopper and a rotary mirror in the fourth embodiment, and FIG. 23(b) is a side view showing the stopper and the rotary mirror in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the flow of operations for calibrating a rotary motor using a stopper. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control unit in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing the flow of the operation for controlling the deceleration when the rotating mirror stops. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a graph showing the rotation speed of the rotating mirror in the fifth embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 shows multiple iris images produced when the rotating mirror is oscillating. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an imaging unit in the sixth embodiment. [Figure 30] 30(a) and 27(b) show an iris camera that captures an image of a target person via a relay mirror. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the flow of the operation of switching the relay mirror that reflects light from the iris of the target person toward the rotating mirror. [Figure 32] 32(a) and 32(b) show an iris camera that captures an image of a target person via a relay mirror. [Figure 33] FIG. 33 is a flowchart showing the flow of the operation of switching the relay mirror that reflects light from the iris of the target person toward the rotating mirror. [Figure 34] 34(a) and 34(b) show an iris camera that captures an image of a target person via a relay mirror. [Figure 35] 35(a) and 35(b) show an iris camera that captures an image of a target person via a relay mirror. [Figure 36]FIG. 36 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an imaging unit in the seventh embodiment. [Figure 37] FIG. 37 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of an imaging unit in the seventh embodiment. [Figure 38] FIG. 38 is a top view showing the arrangement position of the imaging unit in the seventh embodiment. [Figure 39] FIG. 39 is a perspective view showing another example of the imaging unit in the seventh embodiment. [Figure 40] FIG. 40 is a perspective top view showing another example of the imaging unit according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 41] FIG. 41 is a top view showing another example of the arrangement position of the imaging unit in the seventh embodiment. [Figure 42] FIG. 42 is a flowchart showing the flow of the operation for controlling a plurality of rotating mirrors. [Figure 43] FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view showing a rotating mirror provided in an imaging unit according to the eighth embodiment. [Figure 44] FIG. 44 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an imaging unit in the ninth embodiment. [Figure 45] FIG. 45(a) is a top view showing the imaging unit during the period when the iris camera captures an image of the target person, and FIG. 45(b) is a top view showing the imaging unit during the period after the target person has been authenticated. [Figure 46] FIG. 46 is a flowchart showing the flow of the operation of moving the imaging unit. [Figure 47] FIG. 47(a) is a top view showing the imaging unit during the period when the iris camera captures an image of the target person, and FIG. 47(b) is a top view showing the imaging unit during the period after the target person has been authenticated. [Figure 48] FIG. 48 is a top view showing a bent lane. [Figure 49] FIG. 49 is a flowchart showing the flow of the operation of driving the rotating mirror as a heat dissipation fan. [Figure 50]FIG. 50 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control unit in the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 51] FIG. 51 is a flowchart showing the flow of the authentication operation performed by the control unit in the eleventh embodiment. [Figure 52] FIG. 52 is a front view showing the configuration of an illumination device according to the twelfth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of an authentication system will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0009] (1) First embodiment First, a first embodiment of an authentication system and an imaging device will be described. An authentication system 1000 to which the first embodiment of the authentication system and imaging device is applied will be described below with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of authentication system 1000 in the first embodiment. Note that FIG. 1 explains the positional relationship of the components that make up authentication system 1000 using a three-dimensional coordinate system consisting of an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis that are orthogonal to each other. The X-axis and Y-axis are axes along a horizontal plane (i.e., axes extending horizontally), and the Z-axis is an axis perpendicular to the horizontal plane (i.e., axis extending vertically).

[0010] As shown in FIG. 1, the authentication system 1000 includes an imaging device 1010, which is a specific example of "imaging means" in the appendix described below, and a display device 1020, which is a specific example of "display means" in the appendix described below. The imaging device 1010 is capable of generating an iris image by capturing an image of the iris of the target 2000. The display device 1020 is capable of displaying information related to authentication of the target 2000 using the iris image (e.g., information related to the authentication result). Note that in the first embodiment, the authentication system 1000 may or may not include an authentication device for authenticating the target 2000 using the iris image. When the authentication system 1000 does not include an authentication device, the authentication system 1000 may be referred to as an imaging system, an imaging device, a display system, or a display device.

[0011] At least a portion of the imaging device 1010 is disposed in a space 1030 adjacent to the display device 1020. Specifically, the display device 1020 includes a display surface 1021 for displaying information related to authentication of the target 2000 using an iris image. At least a portion of the imaging device 1010 is disposed in the space 1030 adjacent to a rear surface 1022 of the display device 1020 located opposite the display surface 1021.

[0012] In the space 1030, the imaging device 1010 faces a direction different from the direction in which the object 2000 exists. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the object 2000 is located in a horizontal direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction, as an example, the horizontal direction) as viewed from the imaging device 1010. That is, the object 2000 is located at a distance along the horizontal direction as viewed from the imaging device 1010. In this case, the imaging device 1010 faces a direction different from the horizontal direction. For example, the imaging device 1010 may face a direction intersecting the horizontal direction (e.g., the vertical direction). As an example, the imaging device 1010 may face a direction perpendicular to the horizontal direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction, as a vertical direction).

[0013] Note that the "direction in which the imaging device 1010 is facing" may mean, for example, the direction in which the imaging device 1010 captures an image. The "direction in which the imaging device 1010 is facing" may mean, for example, the direction in which the imaging range of the imaging device 1010 expands as seen from the imaging device 1010. The "direction in which the imaging device 1010 is facing" may mean, for example, the direction in which the optical system of the imaging device 1010 (e.g., an optical system including a lens, etc.) is facing. The "direction in which the imaging device 1010 is facing" may mean, for example, the direction in which the optical axis of the optical system of the imaging device 1010 extends.

[0014] Such authentication system 1000 of the first embodiment can enjoy the effect of reducing the size of the authentication system 1000. In other words, the authentication system 1000 of the first embodiment can appropriately solve the technical problem of the authentication system becoming excessively large in size.

[0015] (2) Second embodiment Next, a second embodiment of the authentication system and the imaging device will be described. An authentication system SYS to which the second embodiment of the authentication system and the imaging device is applied will be described below with reference to Fig. 2. In the following description, the positional relationship of the components that make up the authentication system SYS will be described using a three-dimensional coordinate system consisting of an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis that are orthogonal to each other. The X-axis and the Y-axis are axes along a horizontal plane (i.e., axes extending horizontally), and the Z-axis is an axis perpendicular to the horizontal plane (i.e., axis extending vertically).

[0016] (2-1) Overall configuration of the authentication system SYS First, the overall configuration of the authentication system SYS in the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the authentication system SYS in the second embodiment.

[0017] 2, the authentication system SYS includes an imaging unit 1, a control unit 2, and a gate unit 3. The imaging unit 1, the control unit 2, and the gate unit 3 may be referred to as an imaging device, a control device, and a gate device, respectively.

[0018] The imaging unit 1 is capable of capturing an image of at least a portion of a target (see FIG. 3(a)). The target may include, for example, a person. The target may include an animal other than a person (for example, at least one of mammals such as dogs and cats, birds such as sparrows, reptiles such as snakes, amphibians such as frogs, and fish such as goldfish). The target may include an inanimate object. The inanimate object may include a robot that resembles a person or an animal. In the following explanation, an example will be described in which the target is a person (hereinafter referred to as "target person P").

[0019] The imaging unit 1 can capture an image of at least a portion of the target person P, thereby generating a person image IMG in which at least a portion of the target person P is captured. Specifically, as will be described in detail later, the imaging unit 1 can capture an image of the iris of the target person P, thereby generating an iris image IMG_I in which the iris of the target person P is captured, as the person image IMG. Furthermore, the imaging unit 1 may be able to capture an image of the face of the target person P, thereby generating a face image IMG_F in which the face of the target person P is captured, as the person image IMG.

[0020] Note that the iris image IMG_I may include a part of the target person P other than the iris. Even in this case, as will be described in detail later, the target person P is authenticated using the iris of the target person P included in the iris image IMG_I, so there is no problem even if a part of the target person P other than the iris is included in the iris image IMG_I. Alternatively, if the iris image IMG_I includes a part of the target person P other than the iris but does not include the iris of the target person P, the imaging unit 1 may generate the iris image IMG_I including the iris of the target person P by rotating the rotating mirror 13 and / or adjusting the position of the iris camera 12, as will be described in detail later. Similarly, the face image IMG_F may include a part of the target person P other than the face. Even in this case, as will be described in detail later, the position of the eyes of the target person P is identified using the face of the target person P reflected in the face image IMG_F, so no problem occurs even if a part of the target person P other than the face is reflected in the face image IMG_F. Alternatively, if a part of the target person P other than the face is reflected in the face image IMG_F but the face of the target person P is not reflected, as will be described in detail later, the imaging unit 1 may adjust the position of the face camera 11 to generate a face image IMG_F in which the face of the target person P is reflected.

[0021] The control unit 2 acquires a person image IMG from the imaging unit 1 and performs an authentication operation to authenticate the target person P using the person image IMG. In the second embodiment, the control unit 2 acquires an iris image IMG_I from the imaging unit 1 and performs an authentication operation to authenticate the target person P using the iris image IMG_I. That is, the control unit 2 performs an authentication operation related to iris authentication. Specifically, the control unit 2 determines whether the target person P reflected in the acquired iris image IMG_I is the same as a person registered in advance (hereinafter referred to as a "registered person") based on the iris pattern of the target person P reflected in the acquired iris image IMG_I. If it is determined that the target person P reflected in the iris image IMG_I is the same as the registered person, it is determined that authentication of the target person P has been successful. On the other hand, if it is determined that the target person P reflected in the iris image IMG_I is not the same as the registered person, it is determined that authentication of the target person P has failed.

[0022] As at least a part of the authentication operation, the control unit 2 may perform an operation of controlling the imaging unit 1 to capture an image of at least a part of the target person P. For example, the control unit 2 may control the imaging unit 1 by outputting an imaging control signal to the imaging unit 1 to control the imaging unit 1 to capture an image of at least a part of the target person P.

[0023] The gate unit 3 is a device capable of controlling the passage of a target person P. An example of the configuration of the gate unit 3 is shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b). FIG. 3(a) is a top view showing an example of the configuration of the gate unit 3, and FIG. 3(b) is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the gate unit 3. As shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b), the gate unit 3 includes a pair of guide walls 31, a first flapper gate 32, a second flapper gate 33, a proximity sensor 34, and at least one lighting device 36. However, the configuration of the gate unit 3 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b). Alternatively, the authentication system SYS may not include the gate unit 3 in the first place.

[0024] The pair of guide walls 31 form a lane 35 between the pair of guide walls 31 for the target person P to pass through. Therefore, each of the pair of guide walls 31 extends along the direction in which the lane 35 extends (the Y-axis direction in the example shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b)).

[0025] The first flapper gate 32 is a plate-shaped member capable of controlling the passage of the target person P. Note that, in addition to or instead of the first flapper gate 32, a gate bar, which is a rod-shaped member capable of controlling the passage of the target person P, may be used. The state of the first flapper gate 32 is controlled by the control unit 2 based on the detection result of the target person P by the proximity sensor 34. Specifically, when the proximity sensor 34 detects the target person P, the state of the first flapper gate 32 is controlled by the control unit 2 so that the first flapper gate 32 is in an open state that allows the target person P to pass through the first flapper gate 32. On the other hand, when the proximity sensor 34 does not detect the target person P, the state of the first flapper gate 32 is controlled by the control unit 2 so that the first flapper gate 32 is in a closed state that prevents the target person P from passing through the first flapper gate 32. However, the state of the first flapper gate 32 may be controlled based on the detection result of the target person P by the proximity sensor 34, independently of the control by the control unit 2.

[0026] The second flapper gate 33 is a plate-like member capable of controlling the passage of the target person P. Note that a gate bar, which is a rod-like member capable of controlling the passage of the target person P, may be used in addition to or instead of the second flapper gate 33. The state of the second flapper gate 33 is controlled by the control unit 2 based on the result of the authentication of the target person P by the control unit 2. Specifically, if the authentication of the target person P by the control unit 2 is successful (i.e., it is determined that the target person P matches a registered person), the state of the second flapper gate 33 is controlled by the control unit 2 to be in an open state that allows the target person P to pass through the second flapper gate 33. On the other hand, if the authentication of the target person P by the control unit 2 is unsuccessful (i.e., it is determined that the target person P does not match a registered person), the state of the second flapper gate 33 is controlled by the control unit 2 to be in a closed state that prevents the target person P from passing through the second flapper gate 33. However, the state of the first flapper gate 32 may be controlled based on the authentication result of the target person P by the control unit 2, independently of the control by the control unit 2.

[0027] The proximity sensor 34 is a detection device capable of detecting a target person P. The proximity sensor 34 may be capable of detecting a target person P approaching the gate unit 3. The proximity sensor 34 may be capable of detecting a target person P entering a lane 35 formed by the gate unit 3. The proximity sensor 34 may be capable of detecting a target person P about to enter a lane 35 formed by the gate unit 3.

[0028] 3(a) and 3(b), the proximity sensor 34 is capable of optically detecting the target person P. Specifically, the proximity sensor 34 includes a light emitting device 341 and a light receiving device 342, which are respectively disposed on the pair of guide walls 31. The light emitting device 341 is capable of emitting detection light DL that propagates in a direction crossing the lane 35. The light receiving device 342 is capable of receiving the detection light DL emitted by the light emitting device 341. When the target person P has not entered the lane 35, the detection light DL emitted by the light emitting device 341 is not blocked by the target person P, and therefore the light receiving device 342 receives the detection light DL emitted by the light emitting device 341. On the other hand, when the target person P enters the lane 35 (particularly, enters the optical path of the detection light DL), the detection light DL emitted by the light emitting device 341 is blocked by the target person P, and therefore the light receiving device 342 does not receive the detection light DL emitted by the light emitting device 341. Therefore, the light reception result by the light receiving device 342 indicates the detection result of the target person P.

[0029] The imaging unit 1 described above captures an image of a target person P located in a lane 35 formed by the gate unit 3. For this reason, the imaging unit 1 may be disposed in the gate unit 3. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b), the imaging unit 1 may be disposed in a guide wall 31. However, the position of the imaging unit 1 is not limited to the position shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b). The imaging unit 1 does not have to be disposed in the gate unit 3. The imaging unit 1 does not have to be disposed on a member different from the gate unit 3. For example, the imaging unit 1 may be attached to a support member (e.g., a wall member or a pole member) disposed near the gate unit 3.

[0030] The lighting device 36 may be disposed on the guide wall 31, for example. The lighting device 36 illuminates the target person P (particularly, the eyes) with illumination light IL when the imaging unit 1 (particularly, the iris camera 12, which will be described later) captures an image of the target person P positioned in the lane 35. As will be described in detail later, the iris camera 12 captures an image of the iris of the target person P positioned between the first flapper gate 32 and the second flapper gate 33. Therefore, the lighting device 36 may be disposed in a position where it can illuminate the iris of the target person P positioned between the first flapper gate 32 and the second flapper gate 33 with illumination light IL. Note that while FIG. 3(b) shows an example in which the lighting device 36 has a vertically elongated shape, the shape of the lighting device 36 is not limited to the shape shown in FIG. 3(b).

[0031] The imaging unit 1 may capture an image of a target person P moving along the lane 35 (for example, a target person P moving without standing still in front of the imaging unit 1). Alternatively, the imaging unit 1 may capture an image of a target person P standing still in the lane 35 (for example, a target person P standing still in front of the imaging unit 1).

[0032] 2, the control unit 2 may perform, as at least a part of the authentication operation, an operation of controlling the gate unit 3 based on the authentication result. For example, the control unit 2 may control the gate unit 3 by outputting to the gate unit 3 a gate control signal for switching the state of the first flapper gate 32 between an open state and a closed state. For example, the control unit 2 may control the gate unit 3 by outputting to the gate unit 3 a gate control signal for switching the state of the second flapper gate 33 between an open state and a closed state.

[0033] (2-2) Configuration of imaging unit 1 Next, the configuration of the imaging unit 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 4 and Fig. 5. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the imaging unit 1. Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the imaging unit 1.

[0034] As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the imaging unit 1 includes a face camera 11, an iris camera 12 which is a specific example of the "imaging means" in the appendix described later, a rotating mirror 13 which is a specific example of each of the "reflection means" and "first reflection means" in the appendix described later, a rotary motor 14 which is a specific example of the "rotation drive means" in the appendix described later, a display 15 which is a specific example of the "display means" in the appendix described later, and a distance sensor 16.

[0035] The face camera 11 is an imaging device capable of capturing an image of the face of the target person P. The face camera 11 is typically capable of capturing an image of at least a portion of the target person P including the face of the target person P. The face camera 11 is capable of capturing an image of the face of the target person P, thereby generating a face image IMG_F in which the face of the target person P is captured.

[0036] The iris camera 12 is an imaging device capable of capturing at least an image of the iris of the target person P. The iris camera 12 is typically capable of capturing an image of at least a portion of the target person P, including the iris of the target person P. The iris camera 12 is capable of capturing an image of the iris of the target person P, thereby generating an iris image IMG_I in which the iris of the target person P is captured.

[0037] The rotating mirror 13 is an optical element that reflects light from the target person P toward the iris camera 12. Therefore, the iris camera 12 captures an image of the iris of the target person P via the rotating mirror 13. Specifically, as described above, when the iris camera 12 captures an image of the iris of the target person P, the iris of the target person P is illuminated with illumination light IL from the lighting device 36. The illumination light IL may include, for example, near-infrared light (i.e., light whose wavelength is included in the near-infrared wavelength band). Reflected light of the illumination light (or scattered light in addition to or instead of the reflected light) is emitted from the iris illuminated by the illumination light. Therefore, the light from the target person P reflected by the rotating mirror 13 toward the iris camera 12 may include at least one of reflected light and scattered light of the illumination light emitted from the iris. The iris camera 12 receives light from the target person P using an imaging element 122 (see FIG. 7, which will be described later) such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor), thereby capturing an image of the iris of the target person P. The technical reason why the iris camera 12 captures an image of the iris of the target person P via the rotating mirror 13 will be explained later when explaining the arrangement of the iris camera 12.

[0038] Rotation motor 14 is a drive device for rotating rotation mirror 13 around a predetermined rotation axis under the control of control unit 2. The technical reason why rotation motor 14 rotates rotation mirror 13 will be explained later when explaining the arrangement of iris camera 12.

[0039] The display 15 is a display device capable of displaying desired information. For example, the display 15 may be capable of displaying information related to the authentication of the target person P using the iris image IMG_I. The information related to the authentication of the target person P may include information related to the authentication result of the target person P. The information related to the authentication of the target person P may include information to be notified to the target person P who has been successfully authenticated (for example, information notifying that the target person P has been permitted to pass through the second flapper gate 33). The information related to the authentication of the target person P may include information to be notified to the target person P who has failed to be authenticated (for example, information notifying the target person P of the next action to be taken due to the authentication failure).

[0040] The imaging unit 1 may include any output device capable of outputting desired information in addition to or instead of the display 15. For example, the imaging unit 1 may include an audio output device (e.g., a speaker) capable of outputting the desired information as audio. For example, the imaging unit 1 may include a paper output device (e.g., a printer) capable of outputting paper on which the desired information is written.

[0041] The distance sensor 16 is a measurement device capable of measuring the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P. The distance sensor 16 may be capable of optically measuring the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P. Examples of the distance sensor 16 capable of optically measuring the distance include at least one of a TOF (Time Of Flight) sensor, a triangulation sensor, a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), and a stereo camera. However, the imaging unit 1 does not necessarily have to be equipped with the distance sensor 16.

[0042] The face camera 11, iris camera 12, rotating mirror 13, rotating motor 14, display 15, and distance sensor 16 are disposed in a housing 19. That is, the face camera 11, iris camera 12, rotating mirror 13, rotating motor 14, display 15, and distance sensor 16 are disposed in a storage space SP1 (see FIGS. 6 and 7 described later) within the housing 19. As shown in FIG. 5, the housing 19 includes a front housing 191 and a rear housing 192. By combining the front housing 191 and the rear housing 192, a storage space SP1 is formed between the front housing 191 and the rear housing 192, and the face camera 11, iris camera 12, rotating mirror 13, rotating motor 14, display 15, and distance sensor 16 are disposed in this storage space SP1.

[0043] Here, the arrangement of the face camera 11, iris camera 12, rotating mirror 13, and display 15 within the housing 19 will be described with reference to Figures 6 and 7. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of the imaging unit 1 (particularly, a cross section including the face camera 11, display 15, and housing 19). Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a cross section of the imaging unit 1 (particularly, a cross section including the iris camera 12, rotating mirror 13, display 15, and housing 19).

[0044] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the face camera 11, the iris camera 12, and the display 15 may be supported by a support plate 18 within a housing 19. That is, the face camera 11, the iris camera 12, and the display 15 may be housed in the housing 19 with the face camera 11, the iris camera 12, and the display 15 attached to the support plate 18. In the example shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the support plate 18 is a plate-shaped member along the XZ plane, but its shape is not limited to the shape shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 . However, at least one of the face camera 11, the iris camera 12, and the display 15 may not be supported by the support plate 18. In addition to or instead of at least one of the face camera 11, the iris camera 12, and the display 15, at least one of the rotating mirror 13, the rotating motor 14, and the distance sensor 16 may be supported by the support plate 18.

[0045] At least a portion of the support plate 18 may be exposed to the outside of the housing 19. For example, in the example shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 (and further FIG. 5), the support plate 18 is housed within the housing 19 so as to be sandwiched between the front housing 191 and the rear housing 192. In this case, as shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 (and further FIG. 5), at least a portion of the outer edge of the support plate 18 may be exposed to the outside of the housing 19. As a result, heat generated by the face camera 11, the iris camera 12, and the display 15 can be dissipated to the outside of the housing 19 via the support plate 18. Therefore, the influence of heat on the operations of the face camera 11, the iris camera 12, and the display 15 is reduced. Note that when the heat generated by the face camera 11, the iris camera 12, and the display 15 is dissipated to the outside of the housing 19 via the support plate 18, the support plate 18 may be made of a material that can promote heat dissipation (for example, a metallic material). However, the support plate 18 does not have to be exposed to the outside of the housing 19.

[0046] A member different from the support plate 18 may be used as a member for dissipating heat generated within the housing 19 to the outside of the housing 19. For example, as shown in FIG. 5 , when the imaging unit 1 is attached to the gate unit 3 via a connecting member 198, the connecting member 198 may be used as a member for dissipating heat generated within the housing 19 to the outside of the housing 19. Furthermore, to further promote heat dissipation, the imaging unit 1 may be provided with a heat dissipation fan. The heat dissipation fan may be driven to dissipate heat generated within the housing 19 to the outside of the housing 19. For example, the heat dissipation fan may be driven to dissipate heat generated within the housing 19 to the outside of the housing 19 through an opening formed in the housing 19 (for example, at least one of openings 194, 195, and 197 described below).

[0047] As shown in FIG. 6, the face camera 11 may be disposed so as to face the direction in which the target person P is present. Here, "the direction in which the face camera 11 faces" may mean, for example, the direction in which the face camera 11 captures an image. In this case, the face camera 11 may be disposed within the housing 19 so as to capture an image of the space in the direction in which the target person P is present. "The direction in which the face camera 11 faces" may mean, for example, the direction in which the imaging range of the face camera 11 expands as seen from the face camera 11. In this case, the face camera 11 may be disposed within the housing 19 so that the imaging range expands in the direction in which the target person P is present. "The direction in which the face camera 11 faces" may mean, for example, the direction in which the optical system 111 of the face camera 11 (for example, an optical system including a lens, etc.) faces. In this case, the face camera 11 may be disposed within the housing 19 so that the optical system 111 faces the direction in which the target person P is present. "The direction in which the face camera 11 faces" may mean, for example, the direction in which the optical axis AX1 of the optical system 111 of the face camera 11 extends. In this case, the face camera 11 may be disposed in the housing 19 so that the optical axis AX1 extends in the direction in which the target person P is present.

[0048] In the example shown in FIG. 6, the target person P is located in the lateral direction (for example, the Y-axis direction, as an example, the horizontal direction) as viewed from the face camera 11. That is, the target person P is located at a position away from the face camera 11 in the lateral direction. In this case, the face camera 11 may be disposed so as to face the lateral direction. For example, the face camera 11 may be disposed so that the imaging range of the face camera 11 extends in the lateral direction of the face camera 11 as viewed from the face camera 11. For example, the face camera 11 may be disposed so that the optical axis AX1 of the optical system 111 of the face camera 11 extends in the lateral direction (for example, a direction along the XY plane, as an example, the horizontal direction).

[0049] The face camera 11 captures an image of the target person P by receiving light L1 from the target person P (for example, light from the face of the target person P) with the imaging element 112 via the optical system 111. The light L1 enters the face camera 11 (particularly, the optical system 111) through an opening 194 (see FIGS. 5 and 6 ) formed in the housing 19 (particularly, the front housing 191). Furthermore, when the face camera 11 is supported by a support plate 18, the light L1 may enter the face camera 11 (particularly, the optical system 111) through an opening 184 formed in the support plate 18. Alternatively, the face camera 11 may be disposed such that at least a portion of the face camera 11 is disposed within the opening 184 formed in the support plate 18. As a result, the face camera 11 housed in the housing 19 can generate a face image IMG_F by capturing an image of the target person P located outside the housing 19.

[0050] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 7 , iris camera 12 may be disposed so as to face a direction different from the direction in which target person P exists. Here, "the direction in which iris camera 12 faces" may mean, for example, the direction in which iris camera 12 captures an image. In this case, iris camera 12 may be disposed within housing 19 so as to capture an image of a space existing in a direction different from the direction in which target person P exists. "The direction in which iris camera 12 faces" may mean, for example, the direction in which the imaging range of iris camera 12 extends as seen from iris camera 12. In this case, iris camera 12 may be disposed within housing 19 so that the imaging range extends in a direction different from the direction in which target person P exists. "The direction in which iris camera 12 faces" may mean, for example, the direction in which optical system 121 of iris camera 12 (e.g., an optical system including a lens, etc.) faces. In this case, iris camera 12 may be disposed within housing 19 so that optical system 121 faces a direction different from the direction in which target person P exists. The "direction in which iris camera 12 faces" may refer to, for example, the direction in which optical axis AX2 of optical system 121 of iris camera 12 extends. In this case, iris camera 12 may be disposed within housing 19 so that optical axis AX2 extends in a direction different from the direction in which target person P is present.

[0051] In the example shown in FIG. 7, target person P is located in the lateral direction (e.g., the Y-axis direction, as an example, the horizontal direction) as viewed from iris camera 12. That is, target person P is located at a position separated in the lateral direction as viewed from iris camera 12. In this case, iris camera 12 may be disposed so as to face a direction different from the lateral direction. As an example, iris camera 12 may be disposed so as to face a vertical direction (e.g., the Z-axis direction, as an example, the vertical direction) different from the lateral direction. For example, iris camera 12 may be disposed so that the imaging range of iris camera 12 extends in the vertical direction of iris camera 12 as viewed from iris camera 12. For example, iris camera 12 may be disposed so that the optical axis AX2 of optical system 121 of iris camera 12 extends along the vertical direction. As an example, iris camera 12 may be disposed so that the optical axis AX2 extends along a direction intersecting the XY plane (e.g., the vertical direction or the Z-axis direction).

[0052] The iris camera 12 captures an image of the target person P by receiving light L2 from the target person P (for example, light from the iris of the target person P) at the image sensor 122 via the optical system 121. However, it is difficult for the light L2 from the target person P to be directly incident on the optical system 121 of the iris camera 12, which faces in a direction different from the direction in which the target person P is present. For this reason, in the second embodiment, the iris camera 12 receives the light L2 via the rotating mirror 13. That is, the light L2 is incident on the optical system 121 of the iris camera 12 via the rotating mirror 13. Specifically, the rotating mirror 13 is disposed on the optical path of the light L2. The light L2 is incident on the reflecting surface 131 of the rotating mirror. The light L2 incident on the reflecting surface 131 is reflected by the reflecting surface 131. The reflecting surface 131 reflects the light L2 toward the iris camera 12 (particularly, toward the optical system 121). As a result, even if the iris camera 12 is facing in a direction different from the direction in which the target person P is present, the iris camera 12 can capture an image of the target person P.

[0053] Light L2 enters iris camera 12 (particularly, optical system 121) through opening 195 (see FIGS. 5 and 7) formed in housing 19 (particularly, front housing 191). Furthermore, when iris camera 12 is supported by support plate 18, light from target person P may enter iris camera 12 (particularly, optical system 121) through opening 185 formed in support plate 18. As a result, iris camera 12 housed in housing 19 can generate iris image IMG_I by capturing an image of target person P located outside housing 19.

[0054] As described above, the light L2 reflected by the rotating mirror 13 toward the iris camera 12 may include at least one of reflected light and scattered light (e.g., near-infrared light) of illumination light emitted from the iris. In this case, the opening 195 may be filled with a material that allows near-infrared light to pass through while absorbing or reflecting a portion of visible light. The opening 195 may be filled with a material that allows near-infrared light to pass through while exhibiting a desired color relative to visible light. As a result, the design quality of the exterior of the housing 19 (i.e., the design quality of the exterior of the imaging unit 1) is improved. Furthermore, since it becomes difficult for the target person P to see the internal structure of the imaging unit 1 through the opening 195, it becomes easier to guide the target person P's gaze to the display exposed to the outside of the imaging unit 1.

[0055] The size of the imaging range of the face camera 11 may be different from the size of the imaging range of the iris camera 12. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 8 , the imaging range of the face camera 11 may be wider than that of the iris camera 12. That is, the angle of view θ1 of the face camera 11 may be wider than the angle of view θ2 of the iris camera 12. In this case, due to differences in the heights of the target persons P, the eyes of the target persons P may not necessarily be located at a specific position within the imaging range of the face camera 11. For example, while the eyes of a first target person P having a first height may be located at a first position within the imaging range of the face camera 11, the eyes of a second target person P having a second height shorter than the first height may be located at a second position lower than the first position within the imaging range of the face camera 11. However, because the angle of view θ2 of the iris camera 12 is relatively small, the imaging range of the iris camera 12 may not necessarily include both the eyes of the first target person P and the eyes of the second target person P. Therefore, in the second embodiment, imaging unit 1 may move the imaging range of iris camera 12 by rotating rotating mirror 13 using rotary motor 14. That is, imaging unit 1 may move the imaging range of iris camera 12 by changing the orientation of rotating mirror 13 using rotary motor 14. For example, as shown in FIG. 9 , imaging unit 1 may move the imaging range of iris camera 12 along the vertical direction (in other words, the up and down direction, for example, the Z-axis direction) by rotating rotating mirror 13. Specifically, imaging unit 1 may move the imaging range of iris camera 12 along the vertical direction by rotating rotating mirror 13 around a rotation axis (for example, a rotation axis along the horizontal direction) that intersects with the direction in which the imaging range of iris camera 12 is moved. As an example, the imaging unit 1 may move the imaging range of the iris camera 12 along the vertical direction by rotating the rotating mirror 13 around a rotation axis (e.g., a rotation axis along the X axis) that intersects both the direction in which the imaging range of the iris camera 12 is moved (e.g., the Z axis direction) and the direction in which the target person P is located (e.g., the Y axis direction).

[0056] When the rotary mirror 13 rotates around a rotation axis along the horizontal direction, as shown in Fig. 10, the rotary motor 14 that rotates the rotary mirror 13 may be disposed within the housing 19 so that the motor shaft 140 of the rotary motor 14 extends along the horizontal direction. In this case, the horizontal size of the rotary motor 14 (i.e., the size in the direction in which the motor shaft 140 extends) is one factor that determines the horizontal size of the imaging unit 1. Specifically, the horizontal size of the imaging unit 1 is larger than the horizontal size of the rotary motor 14. However, because the horizontal size of the rotary motor 14 is not excessively large, the horizontal size of the imaging unit 1 is not excessively large.

[0057] 6 and 7 again, the display 15 is housed in the housing 19 so that a display surface 151 capable of displaying information is exposed to the outside of the housing 19. Specifically, the display 15 is housed in the housing 19 so that the display surface 151 is exposed to the outside of the housing 19 through an opening 196 (see FIGS. 5 to 7) formed in the housing 19 (particularly, the front housing 191). In other words, the display 15 is housed in the housing 19 so that the display surface 151 is visible from the outside of the housing 19 through the opening 196.

[0058] Of the accommodation space SP1, space SP2 (see FIG. 7) adjacent to display 15 may be used as a space for accommodating at least a portion of iris camera 12. That is, at least a portion of iris camera 12 may be disposed in space SP2 adjacent to display 15. Specifically, at least a portion of iris camera 12 may be disposed in space SP2 adjacent to back surface 152 of display 15 located on the opposite side to display surface 151.

[0059] The distance sensor 16 is housed in the housing 19 so as to measure the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P through an opening 197 (see FIG. 5) formed in the housing 19 (particularly the front housing 191). For example, when the distance sensor 16 capable of optically measuring the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P is housed in the housing 19, the distance sensor 16 may be housed in the housing 19 so as to emit measurement light through the opening 197 (for example, to irradiate the measurement light onto the target person P).

[0060] (2-3) Configuration of control unit 2 Next, the configuration of the control unit 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control unit 2.

[0061] 11 , the control unit 2 includes a calculation device 21, a storage device 22, and a communication device 23. The control unit 2 may further include an input device 24 and an output device 25. However, the control unit 2 does not necessarily have to include at least one of the input device 24 and the output device 25. The calculation device 21, the storage device 22, the communication device 23, the input device 24, and the output device 25 may be connected via a data bus 26.

[0062] The arithmetic device 21 includes, for example, at least one of a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), a demand-side platform (DSP), and an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The arithmetic device 21 reads a computer program. For example, the arithmetic device 21 may read a computer program stored in the storage device 22. For example, the arithmetic device 21 may read a computer program stored in a computer-readable, non-transitory storage medium using a storage medium reading device (not shown) included in the control unit 2. The arithmetic device 21 may acquire (i.e., download or read) the computer program from a device (not shown) located outside the control unit 2 via the communication device 23 (or another communication device). The arithmetic device 21 executes the read computer program. As a result, logical functional blocks for executing operations to be performed by the control unit 2 (for example, the above-mentioned authentication operation) are realized within the arithmetic device 21. That is, the arithmetic device 21 can function as a controller for realizing logical functional blocks for executing the operations (in other words, processing) that the control unit 2 should perform.

[0063] Fig. 11 shows an example of logical functional blocks realized in the arithmetic device 21 to perform authentication operations. As shown in Fig. 11, an iris authentication unit 211, which is a specific example of "authentication means" in the appendix described below, a mirror control unit 212, which is a specific example of "rotation control means" in the appendix described below, and a gate control unit 213 are realized in the arithmetic device 21. Note that the operations of the iris authentication unit 211, mirror control unit 212, and gate control unit 213 will be described in detail later with reference to Fig. 12 etc., and therefore will not be described here.

[0064] The storage device 22 can store desired data. For example, the storage device 22 may temporarily store a computer program executed by the arithmetic device 21. The storage device 22 may temporarily store data that the arithmetic device 21 temporarily uses when the arithmetic device 21 is executing a computer program. The storage device 22 may store data that the control unit 2 stores long-term. The storage device 22 may include at least one of a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a hard disk device, a magneto-optical disk device, an SSD (Solid State Drive), and a disk array device. In other words, the storage device 22 may include a non-temporary recording medium.

[0065] The communication device 23 is capable of communicating with each of the imaging unit 1 and the gate unit 3 via a communication network (not shown). In the second embodiment, the communication device 23 receives (i.e., acquires) a person image IMG (specifically, a face image IMG_F and an iris image IMG_I) from the imaging unit 1. Furthermore, the communication device 23 transmits to the imaging unit 1 an imaging control signal for controlling the imaging unit 1 to capture an image of at least a portion of the target person P. The communication device 23 transmits to the gate unit 3 a gate control signal for switching the states of the first flapper gate 32 and the second flapper gate 33 between an open state and a closed state.

[0066] The input device 24 is a device that accepts information input to the control unit 2 from outside the control unit 2. For example, the input device 24 may include an operation device (for example, at least one of a keyboard, a mouse, and a touch panel) that can be operated by an operator of the control unit 2. For example, the input device 24 may include a reading device that can read information recorded as data on a recording medium that can be externally attached to the control unit 2.

[0067] The output device 25 is a device that outputs information to the outside of the control unit 2. For example, the output device 25 may output information as an image. That is, the output device 25 may include a display device (a so-called display) that can display an image showing the information to be output. For example, the output device 25 may output information as sound. That is, the output device 25 may include an audio device (a so-called speaker) that can output sound. For example, the output device 25 may output information on paper. That is, the output device 25 may include a printing device (a so-called printer) that can print desired information on paper.

[0068] (2-4) Authentication operation of control unit 2 Next, the authentication operation performed by the control unit 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of the authentication operation performed by the control unit 2.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 12, the gate control unit 213 determines whether or not the proximity sensor 34 of the gate unit 3 has detected a target person P (step S101).

[0070] If it is determined in step S101 that the proximity sensor 34 has not detected the target person P (step S101: No), the gate control unit 213 continues to determine whether the proximity sensor 34 has detected the target person P. In this case, the gate control unit 213 may transmit a gate control signal for setting the state of the first flapper gate 32 to the closed state to the gate unit 3 via the communication device 23. As a result, the state of the first flapper gate 32 is maintained in the closed state.

[0071] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S101 that the proximity sensor 34 has detected the target person P (step S101: Yes), the gate control unit 213 transmits a gate control signal for setting the state of the first flapper gate 32 to the open state to the gate unit 3 via the communication device 23 (step S102). As a result, as shown in FIG. 13 , the state of the first flapper gate 32 switches to the open state, allowing the target person P to enter the lane 35. However, as described above, the gate unit 3 may switch the state of the first flapper gate 32 to the open state when the proximity sensor 34 detects the target person P, regardless of the control by the gate control unit 213.

[0072] If the face camera 11 is capable of capturing an image of the face of the target person P who has not passed through the first flapper gate 32, then in step S101, the gate control unit 213 may authenticate the target person P based on the face image IMG_F generated by the face camera 11. In this case, if the authentication is successful, then in step S102, the gate control unit 213 may transmit a gate control signal to the gate unit 3 to set the state of the first flapper gate 32 to the open state.

[0073] 12 again, thereafter, the iris authentication unit 211 determines whether or not the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P is equal to or less than a predetermined trigger distance based on the detection result by the distance sensor 16 (step S103). The trigger distance may be the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the position where the face camera 11 is in focus. In this case, the operation of determining whether or not the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P is equal to or less than the trigger distance is equivalent to the operation of determining whether or not the target person P who has entered the lane 35 has advanced to a position where the face camera 11 is in focus.

[0074] As a result of the determination in step S103, if it is determined that the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P is not equal to or less than the trigger distance (step S103: No), it is estimated that the target person P who has entered the lane 35 has not yet advanced to a position where the face camera 11 can focus. In this case, the iris authentication unit 211 continues to determine whether the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P is equal to or less than the trigger distance.

[0075] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S103 that the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P is equal to or shorter than the trigger distance (step S103: Yes), it is presumed that the target person P who has entered the lane 35 has already advanced to a position where the face camera 11 can focus on the target person P. In this case, the iris authentication unit 211 transmits an imaging control signal to the imaging unit 1 via the communication device 23 to control the face camera 11 to capture an image of the face of the target person P (step S104). As a result, the face camera 11 captures an image of the face of the target person P. However, as described above, the face camera 11 may capture an image of the face of the target person P when the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P is equal to or shorter than the trigger distance, regardless of the control by the iris authentication unit 211.

[0076] When the face camera 11 captures an image of the face of the target person P, the iris authentication unit 211 may transmit an imaging control signal to the imaging unit 1 via the communication device 23 to control the display 15 to display a predetermined UI (User Interface) screen. The predetermined UI screen may include, for example, a screen that prompts the target person P to turn his / her face toward the face camera 11. An example of a UI screen that prompts the target person P to turn his / her face toward the face camera 11 is shown in FIG. 14. FIG. 14 shows, as an example of a UI screen, a UI screen that includes a circular frame that specifies the position of the target person P's face, as well as a message that prompts the target person P to turn his / her face toward the display 15 (i.e., turn his / her face toward the face camera 11 that is arranged together with the display 15).

[0077] 12 again, thereafter, the iris authentication unit 211 acquires a face image IMG_F from the face camera 11 via the communication device 23, and identifies the position of the eyes of the target person P (particularly, the position in the vertical direction, for example, the position in the Z-axis direction) based on the acquired face image IMG_F (step S105). Thereafter, the iris authentication unit 211 transmits an imaging control signal to the imaging unit 1 via the communication device 23 for rotating the rotating mirror 13 so that the iris camera 12 can capture an image of the eyes located at the position identified in step S105 (step S106). That is, the iris authentication unit 211 transmits an imaging control signal to the imaging unit 1 via the communication device 23 for rotating the rotating mirror 13 so that the eyes located at the position identified in step S105 are included in the imaging range of the iris camera 12 (step S106). As a result, as shown in FIG. 15, the rotation motor 14 rotates the rotating mirror 13 based on the imaging control signal, and the iris camera 12 can capture an image of the eyes of the target person P.

[0078] When the iris camera 12 captures an image of the eyes of the target person P, the lighting device 36 illuminates the eyes of the target person P with illumination light IL. For example, because the iris camera 12 captures an image of the eyes of the target person P after the rotating mirror 13 rotates in step S106, the lighting device 36 may start illuminating the eyes of the target person P with illumination light IL before the rotating mirror 13 rotates in step S106. For example, because the iris camera 12 captures an image of the eyes of the target person P after the face camera 11 captures an image of the face of the target person P in step S104, the lighting device 36 may start illuminating the eyes of the target person P with illumination light IL after the face camera 11 captures an image of the face of the target person P in step S104. For example, since the iris camera 12 captures the eyes of the target person P after the first flapper gate 32 opens in step S102, the lighting device 36 may begin illuminating the eyes of the target person P with the illumination light IL after the first flapper gate 32 opens in step S102.

[0079] 12 again, thereafter, the iris authentication unit 211 determines whether the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P is equal to or less than a predetermined focus distance based on the detection result by the distance sensor 16 (step S107). The focus distance may be the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the position where the iris camera 12 is in focus. In this case, the operation of determining whether the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P is equal to or less than the focus distance is equivalent to the operation of determining whether the target person P who has entered the lane 35 has advanced to a position where the iris camera 12 is in focus. Note that the focus distance is typically less than the trigger distance described above.

[0080] If it is determined in step S107 that the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P is not equal to or less than the focus distance (step S107: No), it is estimated that the target person P who has entered the lane 35 has not yet advanced to a position where the iris camera 12 can focus. In this case, the iris authentication unit 211 continues to determine whether the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P is equal to or less than the focus distance.

[0081] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S107 that the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P is equal to or shorter than the focus distance (step S107: Yes), it is presumed that the target person P who has entered lane 35 has already advanced to a position where the iris camera 12 can focus on the target person P. In this case, the iris authentication unit 211 transmits an imaging control signal to the imaging unit 1 via the communication device 23 to control the iris camera 12 to capture an image of the eyes of the target person P (step S108). As a result, the iris camera 12 captures an image of the face of the target person P. However, as described above, the iris camera 12 may capture an image of the eyes of the target person P when the distance from the imaging unit 1 to the target person P is equal to or shorter than the focus distance, regardless of the control by the iris authentication unit 211.

[0082] Even when the iris camera 12 captures the eyes of the target person P, as in the case where the face camera 11 captures the face of the target person P, the iris authentication unit 211 may send an imaging control signal to the imaging unit 1 via the communication device 23 to control the display 15 to display a predetermined UI screen.

[0083] Thereafter, the iris authentication unit 211 acquires the iris image IMG_I from the iris camera 12 via the communication device 23, and authenticates the target person P based on the acquired iris image IMG_I (step S109).

[0084] As a result of the authentication in step S109, if the authentication of the target person P is successful (step S110: Yes), the gate control unit 213 transmits a gate control signal for setting the state of the second flapper gate 33 to an open state to the gate unit 3 via the communication device 23 (step S111). As a result, as shown in Fig. 16, the state of the second flapper gate 33 switches to an open state, allowing the target person P to pass through the lane 35. Furthermore, if the authentication of the target person P is successful, as shown in Fig. 17, the iris authentication unit 211 may transmit an imaging control signal to the imaging unit 1 via the communication device 23 for controlling the display 15 to display a UI screen for informing the target person P that the authentication has been successful.

[0085] 12 , on the other hand, if the authentication of the target person P is not successful (i.e., failed) as a result of the authentication in step S109 (step S110: No), the gate control unit 213 transmits a gate control signal to the gate unit 3 via the communication device 23 to set the state of the second flapper gate 33 to the closed state (step S112). As a result, as shown in FIG. 18 , the state of the second flapper gate 33 is maintained in the closed state, and the target person P cannot pass through the lane 35. In this case, the gate control unit 213 may transmit a gate control signal to the gate unit 3 via the communication device 23 to set the state of the first flapper gate 32 to the closed state. As a result, as shown in FIG. 18 , the target person P is trapped between the first flapper gate 32 and the second flapper gate 33. In this case, the target person P may act in accordance with the instructions of an attendant or the like operating the gate unit 3. Furthermore, if the authentication of the target person P is not successful, the iris authentication unit 211 may transmit, via the communication device 23, to the imaging unit 1, an imaging control signal for controlling the display 15 to display a UI screen for informing the target person P that the authentication was not successful, as shown in Fig. 19. Furthermore, if the authentication of the target person P is not successful, the iris authentication unit 211 may transmit, via the communication device 23, to the imaging unit 1, an imaging control signal for controlling the display 15 to display a UI screen for prompting the target person P to re-register the iris pattern of the target person P in the authentication system SYS (i.e., register the target person P as a registered person), as shown in Fig. 19. Furthermore, if the authentication of the target person P is not successful, the iris authentication unit 211 may transmit, via the communication device 23, to the imaging unit 1, an imaging control signal for controlling the display 15 to display a UI screen for prompting the target person P to perform iris authentication again (i.e., have the iris camera 12 photograph the iris of the target person P again).

[0086] (2-5) Technical effects of the authentication system SYS As described above, in the authentication system SYS of the second embodiment, the iris camera 12 is arranged so as to face a direction different from the direction in which the target person P is present. As a result, it is possible to reduce the size of the authentication system SYS (in particular, the size of the imaging unit 1 equipped with the iris camera 12) compared to when the iris camera 12 is arranged so as to face the direction in which the target person P is present.

[0087] Specifically, the iris camera 12 capturing an image of the iris of the target person P generally includes an optical system 121 (e.g., an optical system referred to as a telephoto lens) with a narrower angle of view and / or a longer focal length than the optical system 111 included in the face camera 11. In this case, the size of the optical system 121 along the optical axis direction is larger than that of the optical system 111. As a result, assuming that the iris camera 12 faces in the direction in which the target person P exists (e.g., the horizontal direction), the size of the imaging unit 1 in the horizontal direction (so-called width or depth) may become excessively large. However, in the second embodiment, the iris camera 12 faces in a direction different from the direction in which the target person P exists (e.g., the vertical direction, in other words, the up-down direction). Therefore, the possibility that the size of the imaging unit 1 in the horizontal direction becomes excessively large is relatively low. This allows the imaging unit 1 to be made smaller in size.

[0088] Furthermore, a space SP2 adjacent to a display 15 having a display surface 151 extending in a direction different from the horizontal direction (for example, a direction different from the horizontal direction, e.g., a vertical direction) can be used as a space for arranging an iris camera 12 facing in a direction different from the direction in which the target person P is present (for example, a direction different from the horizontal direction, e.g., a vertical direction). The space SP2 adjacent to a display 15 having a display surface 151 extending in a direction different from the horizontal direction (for example, a vertical direction) is generally a space extending in a direction different from the horizontal direction (for example, a vertical direction). In the second embodiment, such a space SP2 extending in a direction different from the horizontal direction (for example, a vertical direction) can be used to appropriately arrange the iris camera 12 facing in a direction different from the horizontal direction (for example, a vertical direction). In other words, the space SP2 inevitably created by arranging the display 15 can be effectively used as a space for arranging the iris camera 12. Therefore, the imaging unit 1 can be made smaller in size compared to a case in which a space for arranging the iris camera 12 needs to be dedicated.

[0089] In this way, the authentication system SYS in the second embodiment can appropriately solve the technical problem of reducing the size of the imaging unit 1.

[0090] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the imaging unit 1 rotates the rotating mirror 13 so that the iris camera 12 can capture an image of the eyes of the target person P who is present at a position identified based on the facial image IMG_F. In other words, the imaging unit 1 can use the rotating mirror 13 to move the imaging range of the iris camera 12 so that the eyes of the target person P who is present at a position identified based on the facial image IMG_F are included in the imaging range of the iris camera 12. As a result, the imaging unit 1 can capture images of the eyes of the target person P who are present at various positions (typically, heights) using the single iris camera 12. Therefore, the imaging unit 1 can be made smaller in size than an imaging unit of a comparative example that includes multiple iris cameras 12 that capture images of the eyes of the target person P who are present at various positions (typically, heights).

[0091] Furthermore, when at least a portion of support plate 18 is exposed to the outside of housing 19, heat generated by face camera 11, iris camera 12, and display 15 supported by support plate 18 can be dissipated to the outside of housing 19 via support plate 18. This reduces the effect of heat on the operations of face camera 11, iris camera 12, and display 15.

[0092] (3) Third embodiment Next, a third embodiment of the authentication system and the imaging device will be described. Below, an authentication system SYSa to which the third embodiment of the authentication system and the imaging device is applied will be described. The authentication system SYSa differs from the above-described authentication system SYS in that it includes an imaging unit 1a instead of the imaging unit 1. Other features of the authentication system SYSa may be the same as other features of the authentication system SYS.

[0093] The imaging unit 1a according to the third embodiment will be described below with reference to Fig. 20. Fig. 20 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the imaging unit 1a according to the third embodiment. In the following description, components that have already been described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0094] 20, the imaging unit 1a differs from the imaging unit 1 described above in that it includes at least one of a camera position adjustment mechanism 171a, which is a specific example of a "first position adjustment means" in the appendix described below, and a mirror position adjustment mechanism 172a, which is a specific example of a "second position adjustment means" in the appendix described below. Other features of the imaging unit 1a may be the same as other features of the imaging unit 1.

[0095] Camera position adjustment mechanism 171a is a device that can adjust the position of iris camera 12. For example, as shown in Fig. 21 which shows iris camera 12 whose position is adjusted, camera position adjustment mechanism 171a may be able to adjust the position of iris camera 12 along at least one of the X-axis direction, Y-axis direction, and Z-axis direction. In this case, camera position adjustment mechanism 171a may adjust the position of iris camera 12 using a guide member that is movable in a predetermined direction and has a slider to which iris camera 12 can be attached.

[0096] Camera position adjustment mechanism 171a may adjust the position of iris camera 12 by moving iris camera 12. For example, camera position adjustment mechanism 171a may adjust the position of iris camera 12 by moving iris camera 12 using power generated by a drive source such as a motor. In this case, the operator of authentication system SYSa does not need to manually move iris camera 12. Alternatively, the operator of authentication system SYSa may manually move iris camera 12. In this case, camera position adjustment mechanism 171a may move iris camera 12 using a force that the operator applies to iris camera 12 to move it.

[0097] Camera position adjustment mechanism 171a may adjust the position of iris camera 12 based on the optical characteristics of optical system 121 of iris camera 12. For example, camera position adjustment mechanism 171a may adjust the position of iris camera 12 based on the focal length of optical system 121. As an example, camera position adjustment mechanism 171a may adjust the position of iris camera 12 based on the focal length of optical system 121 so that iris camera 12 can capture an image of target person P that is a focus distance away from imaging unit 1 that is determined based on the focal length.

[0098] The camera position adjustment mechanism 171a may adjust the position of the iris camera 12 based on the distance between the iris camera 12 and the target person P. For example, if the distance between the iris camera 12 and the target person P is longer than the above-mentioned focus distance, the camera position adjustment mechanism 171a may move the iris camera 12 so that the iris camera 12 approaches the rotating mirror 13, thereby shortening the distance between the iris camera 12 and the target person P so that the distance between the iris camera 12 and the target person P approaches the focus distance. For example, if the distance between the iris camera 12 and the target person P is shorter than the above-mentioned focus distance, the camera position adjustment mechanism 171a may move the iris camera 12 so that the iris camera 12 moves away from the rotating mirror 13, thereby lengthening the distance between the iris camera 12 and the target person P so that the distance between the iris camera 12 and the target person P approaches the focus distance. In this case, in particular, if the camera position adjustment mechanism 171a automatically moves the iris camera 12 using power generated by a drive source such as a motor, the iris camera 12 can be maintained in a state where it can properly capture the eyes of the target person P without requiring any intervention from the operator.

[0099] The camera position adjustment mechanism 171 a may be capable of adjusting the position of the face camera 11 in addition to or instead of the position of the iris camera 12 .

[0100] The mirror position adjustment mechanism 172a is a device capable of adjusting the position of the rotating mirror 13. For example, as shown in Fig. 21 which shows the rotating mirror 13 whose position is adjusted, the mirror position adjustment mechanism 172a may be capable of adjusting the position of the rotating mirror 13 along at least one of the X-axis direction, the Y-axis direction, and the Z-axis direction. In this case, the mirror position adjustment mechanism 172a may adjust the position of the rotating mirror 13 using a guide member which is movable in a predetermined direction and has a slider to which the mirror 13 can be attached.

[0101] The mirror position adjustment mechanism 172a may adjust the position of the rotating mirror 13 by moving the rotating mirror 13. For example, the mirror position adjustment mechanism 172a may adjust the position of the rotating mirror 13 by moving the rotating mirror 13 using power generated by a drive source such as a motor. In this case, the operator of the authentication system SYSa does not need to manually move the rotating mirror 13. Alternatively, the operator of the authentication system SYSa may manually move the rotating mirror 13. In this case, the mirror position adjustment mechanism 172a may move the rotating mirror 13 using a force that the operator applies to the rotating mirror 13 to move it.

[0102] The mirror position adjustment mechanism 172a may adjust the position of the rotating mirror 13 so that light from the target person P appropriately enters the optical system 121 of the iris camera 12. For example, since the position of the target person P's eyes can be identified based on the facial image IMG_F as described above, the mirror position adjustment mechanism 172a may move the rotating mirror 13 based on the identified eye position. As an example, the mirror position adjustment mechanism 172a may move the rotating mirror 13 so that the rotating mirror 13 is positioned at a height corresponding to the height of the identified eye position. More specifically, the mirror position adjustment mechanism 172a may adjust the height of the rotating mirror 13 so that light L2 from the eye located at the identified height appropriately enters the iris camera 12 via the rotating mirror 13. In this case, particularly if the mirror position adjustment mechanism 172a automatically moves the rotating mirror 13 using power generated by a drive source such as a motor, the iris camera 12 can maintain a state in which it can appropriately capture an image of the target person P's eyes without requiring any intervention from an operator.

[0103] In the third embodiment, the imaging unit 1a may adjust the position of at least one of the iris camera 12 and the rotating mirror 13 according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 22. The operation shown in FIG. 22 may be performed in parallel with or before or after the operation shown in FIG. 12. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 22, when it is determined that the position of the iris camera 12 needs to be adjusted (step S21a: Yes), the camera position adjustment mechanism 171a may adjust the position of the iris camera 12 (step S22a). For example, it may be determined that the position of the iris camera 12 needs to be adjusted when the optical characteristics of the optical system 121 of the iris camera 12 have changed. Furthermore, when it is determined that the position of the rotating mirror 13 needs to be adjusted (step S23a: Yes), the mirror position adjustment mechanism 172a may adjust the position of the rotating mirror 13 (step S24a). For example, it may be determined that the position of the rotating mirror 13 needs to be adjusted when the adjustment amount of the position of the iris camera 12 exceeds a predetermined adjustment threshold. For example, if the position (for example, height) of the eyes of the target person P changes by a predetermined amount or more, it may be determined that the position of the rotating mirror 13 needs to be adjusted.

[0104] In this way, in the third embodiment, the position of at least one of the iris camera 12 and the rotating mirror 13 is adjustable. Therefore, the iris camera 12 can more appropriately capture an image of the eyes of the target person P via the rotating mirror 13.

[0105] (4) Fourth embodiment Next, a fourth embodiment of the authentication system and the imaging device will be described. An authentication system SYSb to which the fourth embodiment of the authentication system and the imaging device is applied will be described below. The authentication system SYSb differs from the above-described authentication system SYS in that it includes an imaging unit 1b instead of the imaging unit 1. Other features of the authentication system SYSb may be the same as other features of the authentication system SYS. The imaging unit 1b differs from the above-described imaging unit in that it includes a stopper 141b that limits the rotation of the rotating mirror 13. The stopper 141b is a specific example of a "rotation limiting means" in the appendix described below. Other features of the imaging unit 1b may be the same as other features of the imaging unit 1.

[0106] The stopper 141b in the fourth embodiment will be described below with reference to Figures 23(a) and 23(b). Figure 23(a) is a perspective view showing the stopper 141b and the rotating mirror 13, and Figure 23(b) is a side view showing the stopper 141b and the rotating mirror 13.

[0107] 23(a) and 23(b), the stopper 141b can physically limit the rotation of the rotating mirror 13 by coming into contact with the rotating mirror 13. Specifically, the stopper 141b is arranged so as to protrude into an area through which the rotating mirror 13 passes when the rotating mirror 13 rotates. The stopper 141b is arranged in a position where it can come into contact with the rotating mirror 13 when the rotating mirror 13 rotates by the upper limit angle θlimit from the reference position. As a result, the stopper 141b can prevent the rotating mirror 13 from rotating beyond the upper limit angle θlimit.

[0108] The rotating mirror 13 may be rotatable both clockwise and counterclockwise. In this case, as shown in FIG. 23(b), a stopper 141b that can limit the rotation of the rotating mirror 13 in the clockwise direction and a stopper 141b that can limit the rotation of the rotating mirror 13 in the counterclockwise direction may be provided.

[0109] When the stopper 141b comes into contact with the reflective surface 131 of the rotating mirror 13 (specifically, the mirror body 132b having the reflective surface 131), the mirror body 132b may be damaged depending on the magnitude of the impact when the stopper 141b comes into contact with the rotating mirror 13. Therefore, the stopper 141b may limit the rotation of the rotating mirror 13 by coming into contact with the mirror holder 133b that holds the mirror body 132b, instead of coming into contact with the mirror body 132b itself.

[0110] The control unit 2 (particularly, the mirror control unit 212) may calibrate the rotary motor 14 using the stopper 141b. That is, the control unit 2 (particularly, the mirror control unit 212) may calibrate the rotary motor 14 using the stopper 141b. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 24, an operation for calibrating the rotary motor 14 using the stopper 141b will be described. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing the flow of the operation for calibrating the rotary motor 14 using the stopper 141b. The operation shown in FIG. 24 may be performed in parallel with or before or after the operation shown in FIG. 12.

[0111] 24, the mirror control unit 212 may drive the rotary motor 14 so that the rotary mirror 13 rotates from the reference position until it contacts the stopper 141b (step S31b). Thereafter, if it is determined that the rotary mirror 13 has contacted the stopper 141b (step S32b: Yes), the mirror control unit 212 compares the actual command signal used to control the rotary motor 14 so that the rotary mirror 13 rotates from the reference position until it contacts the stopper 141b with an ideal command signal for controlling the rotary motor 14 so that the rotary mirror 13 rotates by the allowable upper limit angle θlimit from the reference position (step S33b). If the actual command signal and the ideal command signal match (step S34b: Yes), the mirror control unit 212 estimates that the operation of the rotary motor 14 is normal (step S35b). This is because, under circumstances in which the rotary mirror 13 should rotate by the upper limit angle θlimit when an ideal command signal is input to the rotary motor 14, the rotary mirror 13 actually rotates by the upper limit angle θlimit when an actual command signal identical to the ideal command signal is input to the rotary motor 14. On the other hand, if the actual command signal and the ideal command signal do not match (step S34b: No), the mirror control unit 212 estimates that the operation of the rotary motor 14 is abnormal (step S36b). This is because, despite the circumstances in which the rotary mirror 13 should rotate by the upper limit angle θlimit when an ideal command signal is input to the rotary motor 14, the rotary mirror 13 actually rotates by the upper limit angle θlimit when an actual command signal different from the ideal command signal is input to the rotary motor 14. For this reason, the mirror control unit 212 may calibrate the rotary motor 14 based on the difference between the actual command signal and the ideal command signal so that the rotary motor 14 operates normally (step S37b). As a result, the rotation accuracy of the rotating mirror 13 is improved compared to when the rotating motor 14 is not calibrated.

[0112] The authentication system SYSa in the third embodiment described above may employ components specific to the fourth embodiment. The components specific to the fourth embodiment may include components related to the stopper 141b.

[0113] (5) Fifth embodiment Next, a fifth embodiment of an authentication system and an imaging device will be described. An authentication system SYSc to which the fifth embodiment of the authentication system and imaging device is applied will be described below. The authentication system SYSc differs from the above-described authentication system SYS in that it includes a control unit 2c instead of the control unit 2. Other features of the authentication system SYSc may be the same as other features of the authentication system SYS. Hereinafter, the control unit 2c in the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 25. FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control unit 2c in the fifth embodiment.

[0114] 25, the control unit 2c differs from the above-described control unit 2 in that it includes a mirror control unit 212c instead of the mirror control unit 212. Other features of the control unit 2c may be the same as other features of the control unit 2.

[0115] The mirror control unit 212c differs from the above-described mirror control unit 212 in that it can control the deceleration of the rotating mirror 13 when the rotating mirror 13 stops, based on the state of the iris of the target person P reflected in the iris image IMG_I. Other features of the mirror control unit 212c may be the same as other features of the mirror control unit 212.

[0116] Depending on the deceleration when the rotating mirror 13 stops, the rotating mirror 13 may vibrate due to a reaction when the rotary motor 14 is not applying force to the rotating mirror 13. The possibility of vibration of the rotating mirror 13 due to such a reaction increases as the deceleration when the rotating mirror 13 stops increases. In this case, the iris camera 12 may capture an image of the target person P's eyes while the rotating mirror 13 is vibrating. As a result, the state of the iris captured in the iris image IMG_I may be poor. For example, the iris may be blurred or blurred when captured in the iris image IMG_I. As a result, the authentication accuracy of the iris authentication unit 211 may be degraded.

[0117] Therefore, if the condition of the iris reflected in the iris image IMG_I is not good, the mirror control unit 212 assumes that the rotating mirror 13 is vibrating due to recoil when the rotating mirror 13 stops, and controls the deceleration when the rotating mirror 13 stops so as to suppress the vibration of the rotating mirror 13 caused by the recoil.

[0118] Specifically, the mirror control unit 212 may perform an operation to control the deceleration when the rotating mirror 13 stops, according to the flowchart shown in Fig. 26. The operation shown in Fig. 26 may be performed in parallel with or before or after the operation shown in Fig. 12. Alternatively, the operation shown in Fig. 26 may be performed every time the iris camera 12 captures an image of the iris of the target person P in step S108 of Fig. 12 (that is, every time an iris image IMG_I is generated).

[0119] 26, the mirror control unit 212 determines whether the condition of the iris reflected in the iris image IMG_I is good (step S41c). If it is determined that the condition of the iris reflected in the iris image IMG_I is not good (step S41c: No), it is estimated that the rotating mirror 13 is vibrating due to a reaction when the rotating mirror 13 stops, and the deceleration when the rotating mirror 13 stops is controlled so as to suppress the vibration of the rotating mirror 13 caused by the reaction (step S42c). An example of the control of the deceleration will be described below.

[0120] For example, consider a case where, as shown in the first graph of FIG. 27, when the rotating mirror 13 rotating at a rotation speed v1 is stopped over a time t1, the state of the iris captured in the iris image IMG_I becomes poor. In this case, the mirror control unit 212 may control the rotating motor 14 so that the rotating mirror 13 is stopped over a time t2, which is longer than the time t1, as shown in the second graph of FIG. 27. That is, the mirror control unit 212 may control the rotating motor 14 so that the time required to decelerate the rotating mirror 13 to stop the rotating mirror 13 is extended. Alternatively, as shown in the third graph of FIG. 27, in addition to or instead of controlling the rotating motor 14 to extend the time required to decelerate the rotating mirror 13, the mirror control unit 212 may control the rotating motor 14 so that the rotating mirror 13 rotating at a rotation speed v2, which is slower than v1, is stopped. That is, the mirror control unit 212 may control the rotating motor 14 so that the upper limit of the rotation speed of the rotating mirror 13 is reduced. In either case, the deceleration of the rotating mirror 13 when it stops is small, so the possibility of the rotating mirror 13 vibrating due to recoil is reduced.

[0121] Alternatively, a predetermined filter (for example, a low-pass filter or a moving average filter that can be used as a velocity filter) may be available to control the responsiveness of the rotary motor 14. In this case, the mirror control unit 212 may control the deceleration of the rotary mirror 13 by adjusting the time constant of the filter, in addition to or instead of controlling the rotary motor 14 so as to lengthen the time for decelerating the rotary mirror 13 and / or to lower the upper limit of the rotational speed of the rotary mirror 13. For example, the mirror control unit 212 may control the deceleration of the rotary mirror 13 by adjusting the time constant of the filter so as to reduce or eliminate vibration of the rotary mirror 13 caused by recoil.

[0122] In this way, the control unit 2 in the fifth embodiment can control the deceleration at which the rotating mirror 13 stops so as to suppress (e.g., reduce or eliminate) the vibration of the rotating mirror 13 caused by recoil when the state of the iris reflected in the iris image IMG_I is not good. As a result, compared to when the deceleration of the rotating mirror 13 is not controlled, the state of the iris reflected in the iris image IMG_I is more likely to be good. For example, it is more likely that the iris image IMG_I contains an iris from which an iris pattern can be appropriately acquired (e.g., a clear, unshaken, or unblurred iris). Therefore, compared to when the deceleration of the rotating mirror 13 is not controlled, the iris authentication unit 211 can authenticate the target person P using the iris image IMG_I with higher accuracy.

[0123] Considering that the vibration of the rotating mirror 13 due to the recoil is likely to be a periodic vibration, the multiple iris images IMG_I generated by the iris camera 12 capturing images of the eyes of the target person P multiple times while the rotating mirror 13 is vibrating may be multiple iris images IMG_I in which the eyes of the target person P periodically move in a direction corresponding to the direction of vibration of the rotating mirror 13 (for example, the up and down direction as shown in FIG. 28), as shown in FIG. 28. In this case, the iris authentication unit 211 may select at least one iris image IMG_I in which the iris is captured at a desired position from the multiple iris images IMG_I in step S109 of FIG. 12, and authenticate the target person P using the selected at least one iris image IMG_I. For example, an iris captured at a middle position of the iris image IMG_I (for example, the middle position in the up and down direction) may be less blurred or blurred than an iris captured at the upper or lower end of the iris image IMG_I. In this case, the iris authentication unit 211 may select at least one iris image IMG_I in which the iris is captured in an intermediate position (for example, an intermediate position in the vertical direction) from among the multiple iris images IMG_I, and use the selected at least one iris image IMG_I to authenticate the target person P. As a result, the iris authentication unit 211 can authenticate the target person P with higher accuracy using the iris image IMG_I, compared to a case in which the iris image IMG_I is not selected because of the possibility that the vibration of the rotating mirror 13 is a periodic vibration.

[0124] At least one of the authentication systems SYSa in the third embodiment to SYSb in the fourth embodiment may employ components specific to the fifth embodiment. The components specific to the fifth embodiment may include components related to the mirror control unit 212c.

[0125] (6) Sixth embodiment Next, a sixth embodiment of an authentication system and an imaging device will be described. An authentication system SYSd to which the sixth embodiment of the authentication system and imaging device is applied will be described below. The authentication system SYSd differs from the above-described authentication system SYS in that it includes an imaging unit 1d instead of the imaging unit 1. Other features of the authentication system SYSd may be the same as other features of the authentication system SYS. Below, the imaging unit 1d in the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 29. FIG. 29 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the imaging unit 1d in the sixth embodiment.

[0126] 29, the imaging unit 1d differs from the imaging unit 1 described above in that it includes at least one relay mirror 13d, which is a specific example of each of the "second reflecting means," "third reflecting means," and "fourth reflecting means" in the appendix described below. Other features of the imaging unit 1d may be the same as other features of the imaging unit 1.

[0127] The relay mirror 13d is an optical element that reflects light L2 from the iris of the target person P toward the rotating mirror 13. In particular, the relay mirror 13d is an optical element that reflects light L2 from the iris of the target person P and that propagates toward the front of the target person P toward the rotating mirror 13.

[0128] Such a relay mirror 13d may be arranged so that multiple light beams L2 propagating from multiple different positions are incident on the same rotating mirror 13. As an example, the imaging unit 1d may include a relay mirror 13d that reflects light L2 from the iris of a target person P located at a first position toward the rotating mirror 13, and a relay mirror 13d that reflects light L2 from the iris of a target person P located at a second position different from the first position toward the rotating mirror 13. As a result, the imaging unit 1d can capture images of the eyes of the target person P located at various positions using a single iris camera 12.

[0129] As an example, the imaging unit 1d may include a relay mirror 13d#1 and a relay mirror 13d#2, as shown in FIGS. 30(a) and 30(b). As shown in FIG. 30(a), the relay mirror 13d#1 can reflect light L2 from the iris of the target person P located at the first position P1 toward the rotating mirror 13. In this case, the relay mirror 13d#1 may be disposed at a desired position that allows the iris camera 12 to capture an image of the eye of the target person P located at the first position P1 from substantially a frontal position. For example, the relay mirror 13d#1 may be disposed at a position that allows it to directly face the iris of the target person P located at the first position P1. As an example, the relay mirror 13d#1 may be disposed at the same height as the iris of the target person P located at the first position P1, or at a height where the difference in height between the relay mirror 13d#1 and the iris of the target person P located at the first position P1 is within an acceptable range. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 30(b), relay mirror 13d#2 can reflect, toward rotating mirror 13, light L2 from the iris of target person P located at a second position P2 different from first position P1 in the Z-axis direction (i.e., vertical direction). In this case, relay mirror 13d#2 may be disposed at a desired position that allows iris camera 12 to capture an image of the eye of target person P located at second position P2 from a position substantially directly in front of the eye. For example, relay mirror 13d#2 may be disposed at a position that allows it to directly face the iris of target person P located at second position P2. As an example, relay mirror 13d#2 may be disposed at the same height as the iris of target person P located at second position P2, or at a height where the difference in height between relay mirror 13d#2 and the iris of target person P located at second position P2 is within an acceptable range.

[0130] In this case, the mirror control unit 212 may switch the relay mirror 13d that reflects the light L2 from the iris of the target person P toward the rotating mirror 13, according to the flowchart shown in Fig. 31. Fig. 31 is a flowchart showing the flow of the operation of switching the relay mirror 13d that reflects the light L2 from the iris of the target person P toward the rotating mirror 13. The operation shown in Fig. 31 may be performed before the iris camera 12 captures an image of the iris of the target person P in step S108 of Fig. 12. Fig. 31 is an example of the operation that is performed when the first position P1 is higher than the second position P2 in Figs. 30(a) and 30(b) (that is, the first position P1 is located on the +Z side of the second position P2 along the Z-axis direction).

[0131] 31, the mirror control unit 212 identifies the eye positions (particularly, positions in the Z-axis direction and height) of the target person P based on the face image IMG_F (step S511d). Note that the operation of step S511d may be the same as the operation of step S105 in FIG.

[0132] Thereafter, the mirror control unit 212 determines whether the eye position identified in step S511d satisfies a predetermined first position condition (step S512d). The first position condition may include a condition that the eye is located at a first position P1. The first position condition may include a condition that the eye position (particularly, height) exceeds a predetermined first height threshold.

[0133] As a result of the determination in step S512d, if it is determined that the eye positions satisfy the predetermined first position condition (step S512d: Yes), the mirror control unit 212 controls the relay mirror 13d#1 so that the relay mirror 13d#1, which can reflect light L2 from the iris of the target person P located at a first position P1 higher than the second position P2, toward the rotating mirror 13, reflects the light L2 toward the rotating mirror 13 (step S513d). On the other hand, the mirror control unit 212 may control the relay mirror 13d#2 so that the relay mirror 13d#2, which can reflect light L2 from the iris of the target person P located at a second position P2 lower than the first position P1, does not reflect the light L2 toward the rotating mirror 13 (step S513d). As a result, the state of the imaging unit 1d becomes the state shown in FIG. 30(a).

[0134] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S512d is that the eye position does not satisfy the predetermined first position condition (step S512d: No), the mirror control unit 212 determines whether the eye position identified in step S511d satisfies a predetermined second position condition different from the first position condition (step S514d). The second position condition may include a condition that the eyes are located at a second position P2. The second position condition may include a condition that the eye position (particularly, height) is below a predetermined second height threshold (note that the second height threshold is equal to or less than the first height threshold).

[0135] As a result of the determination in step S514d, if it is determined that the eye position satisfies the predetermined second position condition (step S514d: Yes), the mirror control unit 212 controls the relay mirror 13d#2 so that the relay mirror 13d#2, which can reflect light L2 from the iris of the target person P located at a second position P2 lower than the first position P1, reflects the light L2 toward the rotating mirror 13 (step S515d). On the other hand, the mirror control unit 212 may control the relay mirror 13d#1 so that the relay mirror 13d#1, which can reflect light L2 from the iris of the target person P located at a first position P1 higher than the second position P2, does not reflect the light L2 toward the rotating mirror 13 (step S515d). As a result, the state of the imaging unit 1d becomes the state shown in FIG. 30(b).

[0136] As a result, the imaging unit 1d can capture images of the eyes of the target person P at various positions (typically, at various heights) using the single iris camera 12. In particular, there are more opportunities to capture images of the eyes of the target person P at various positions (typically, at various heights) from a frontal position using the single iris camera 12. As a result, there are more opportunities to generate an iris image IMG_I in which the iris is captured when the eyes of the target person P are captured from a frontal position. Here, the accuracy of authentication using the iris image IMG_I generated by capturing the eyes of the target person P from a diagonally upward or downward direction tends to be worse than the accuracy of authentication using the iris image IMG_I generated by capturing the eyes of the target person P from a frontal position. This is because, in the iris image IMG_I generated by capturing the eyes of the target person P from a diagonally upward or downward direction, the iris is more likely to be hidden by at least one of the eyelashes, eyelids, etc., compared to the iris image IMG_I generated by capturing the eyes of the target person P from a frontal position. As a result, in the examples shown in FIGS. 30(a) and 30(b), even if the eye height of the target person P changes, the authentication system SYSd can authenticate the target person P with high accuracy.

[0137] As another example, the imaging unit 1d may include a relay mirror 13d#3 and a relay mirror 13d#4, as shown in Figures 32(a) and 32(b). As shown in Figure 32(a), the relay mirror 13d#3 is capable of reflecting light L2 from the iris of the target person P located at a third position P3 toward the rotating mirror 13. On the other hand, as shown in Figure 32(b), the relay mirror 13d#4 is capable of reflecting light L2 from the iris of the target person P located at a fourth position P4 that is different from the third position P3 in the horizontal direction (e.g., at least one of the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction) toward the rotating mirror 13.

[0138] The third position P3 and the fourth position P4 may be included in two different lanes 35, respectively. For example, as shown in FIGS. 32(a) and 32(b), the third position P3 may be included in the first lane 35#1, and the fourth position P4 may be included in the second lane 35#2 adjacent to the first lane 35#1. As a result, the imaging unit 1d can capture images of both the eyes of the target person P passing through the first lane 35#1 and the eyes of the target person P passing through the second lane 35#2 using a single iris camera 12. This eliminates the need to provide both an imaging unit 1 for capturing images of the eyes of the target person P passing through the first lane 35#1 and an imaging unit 1 for capturing images of the eyes of the target person P passing through the second lane 35#2. This simplifies the configuration of the authentication system SYSd and reduces the cost of the authentication system SYSd.

[0139] In this case, the mirror control unit 212 may switch the relay mirror 13d that reflects the light L2 from the iris of the target person P toward the rotating mirror 13, according to the flowchart shown in Fig. 33. Fig. 33 is a flowchart showing the flow of the operation of switching the relay mirror 13d that reflects the light L2 from the iris of the target person P toward the rotating mirror 13. Note that the operation shown in Fig. 33 may be performed before the iris camera 12 captures an image of the iris of the target person P in step S108 of Fig. 12.

[0140] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 33, the mirror control unit 212 identifies the position (particularly, the position in the horizontal direction) of the target person P based on the face image IMG_F (step S521d).

[0141] Thereafter, the mirror control unit 212 determines whether the position of the target person P identified in step S521d satisfies a predetermined third position condition (step S522d). The third position condition may include a condition that the target person P is located at a third position P3. The third position condition may include a condition that the target person P is located in the first lane 35#1.

[0142] As a result of the determination in step S522d, if it is determined that the position of the target person P satisfies the predetermined third position condition (step S522d: Yes), the mirror control unit 212 controls the relay mirror 13d#3, which is capable of reflecting light L2 from the iris of the target person P located at the third position P3 toward the rotating mirror 13, so that the relay mirror 13d#3 reflects the light L2 toward the rotating mirror 13 (step S523d). On the other hand, the mirror control unit 212 may control the relay mirror 13d#4, which is capable of reflecting light L2 from the iris of the target person P located at the fourth position P4 toward the rotating mirror 13, so that the relay mirror 13d#4 does not reflect the light L2 toward the rotating mirror 13 (step S523d). As a result, the state of the imaging unit 1d becomes the state shown in FIG. 32(a).

[0143] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S522d that the position of the target person P does not satisfy the predetermined third position condition (step S522d: No), the mirror control unit 212 determines whether the position of the target person P identified in step S521d satisfies a predetermined fourth position condition that is different from the third position condition (step S524d). The fourth position condition may include a condition that the target person P is located at a fourth position P4. The fourth position condition may include a condition that the target person P is located in the second lane 35#2.

[0144] As a result of the determination in step S524d, if it is determined that the position of the target person P satisfies the predetermined fourth position condition (step S524d: Yes), the mirror control unit 212 controls the relay mirror 13d#4, which can reflect light L2 from the iris of the target person P located at the fourth position P4 toward the rotating mirror 13, so that the relay mirror 13d#4 reflects light L2 toward the rotating mirror 13 (step S525d). On the other hand, the mirror control unit 212 may control the relay mirror 13d#3, which can reflect light L2 from the iris of the target person P located at the third position P3 toward the rotating mirror 13, so that the relay mirror 13d#3 does not reflect light L2 toward the rotating mirror 13 (step S525d). As a result, the state of the imaging unit 1d becomes the state shown in FIG. 32(b).

[0145] 30(a) to 30(b) and 32(a) to 32(b) show an example of an imaging unit 1d including two relay mirrors 13d. However, the imaging unit 1d may include a single relay mirror 13d, or three or more relay mirrors 13d. For example, as shown in FIGS. 34(a) and 34(b), the imaging unit 1d may include a relay mirror 13d#5 that reflects light L2 from the iris of a target person P located at a fifth position P5 toward the rotating mirror 13. In this case, light L2 from the iris of a target person P located at a sixth position P6 different from the fifth position P5 may enter the rotating mirror 13 without passing through the relay mirror 13d. 35(a) and 35(b), the imaging unit 1d may include a relay mirror 13d#6 that reflects light L2 from a relay mirror 13d#1 shown in Fig. 30(a) toward the rotating mirror 13 and reflects light L2 from a relay mirror 13d#2 shown in Fig. 30(b) toward the rotating mirror 13. In this way, the number of relay mirrors 13d is not limited, and therefore the degree of freedom in designing the relay mirrors 13d is relatively high.

[0146] At least one of the authentication systems SYSa in the third embodiment to SYSc in the fifth embodiment may employ components specific to the sixth embodiment. The components specific to the sixth embodiment may include components related to the relay mirror 13d.

[0147] (7) Seventh embodiment Next, a seventh embodiment of an authentication system and an imaging device will be described. An authentication system SYSe to which the seventh embodiment of the authentication system and imaging device is applied will be described below. The authentication system SYSe differs from the above-described authentication system SYS in that it includes an imaging unit 1e instead of the imaging unit 1. Other features of the authentication system SYSe may be the same as other features of the authentication system SYS. Below, the imaging unit 1e in the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 36 and 37. Fig. 36 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the imaging unit 1e in the seventh embodiment. Fig. 37 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the imaging unit 1e in the seventh embodiment.

[0148] As shown in FIGS. 36 and 37 , the imaging unit 1e differs from the imaging unit 1 described above in that it includes multiple iris cameras 12, multiple rotating mirrors 13, and multiple rotating motors 14. In the example shown in FIGS. 36 and 37 , the imaging unit 1e includes two iris cameras 12 (specifically, iris cameras 12#1 and 12#2), two rotating mirrors 13 (specifically, rotating mirrors 13#1 and 13#2), and two rotating motors 14 (specifically, rotating motors 14#1 and 14#2). In other words, two iris cameras 12 (specifically, iris cameras 12#1 and 12#2), two rotating mirrors 13 (specifically, rotating mirrors 13#1 and 13#2), and two rotating motors 14 (specifically, rotating motors 14#1 and 14#2) are housed in one housing 19. Other features of the imaging unit 1e may be the same as those of the imaging unit 1.

[0149] The multiple iris cameras 12 capture images of the eyes of multiple target persons P passing through the multiple lanes 35, respectively, via the multiple rotating mirrors 13. For example, as shown in FIG. 38, the iris camera 12#1 may capture images of the eyes of the target person P passing through the first lane 35#1 via the rotating mirror 13#1 rotated by the rotating motor 14#1. On the other hand, for example, the iris camera 12#2 may capture images of the eyes of the target person P passing through the second lane 35#2, which is different from the first lane 35#1, via the rotating mirror 13#2 rotated by the rotating motor 14#2. In this case, as shown in FIG. 38, the rotating mirror 13#1 may be oriented toward the first lane 35#1, while the rotating mirror 13#2 may be oriented toward the second lane 35#2. In other words, the rotating mirrors 13#1 and 13#2 may face in different directions.

[0150] When the rotating mirrors 13#1 and 13#2 face in different directions, as shown in FIGS. 39 to 41 , the iris cameras 12#1 and 12#2, the rotating mirrors 13#1 and 13#2, and the rotating motors 14#1 and 14#2 may be housed in a housing 19e that differs from the main body 19 in that it has a side surface 199#1 facing the first lane 35#1 and a side surface 199e#2 facing the second lane 35#2. In this case, the cross-sectional shape of the housing 19e along the horizontal plane may be a polygon, such as a pentagon. Light L2 from a target person P located in the first lane 35#1 may be incident on the rotating mirror 13#1 facing the first lane 35#1 through an opening 195 (195#1) formed in the side surface 199#1. On the other hand, light L2 from a target person P located in the second lane 35#2 may be incident on the rotating mirror 13#2 facing the direction of the second lane 35#2 through an opening 195 (195#2) formed in the side surface 199#2.

[0151] Furthermore, in this case, as shown in Figures 39 and 40, the imaging unit 1e may include a display 15#1 facing the direction of the first lane 35#1 and a display 15#2 facing the direction of the second lane 35#2. As a result, a target person P located in the first lane 35#1 can easily view the display 15#1, and a target person P located in the second lane 35#2 can easily view the display 15#2.

[0152] In the seventh embodiment, the mirror control unit 212 may control a plurality of rotating mirrors 13 (for example, rotating mirrors 13#1 and 13#2) according to the flowchart shown in Fig. 42. Fig. 42 is a flowchart showing the flow of the operation for controlling a plurality of rotating mirrors 13. Note that the operation shown in Fig. 42 may be performed before the iris camera 12 captures an image of the iris of the target person P in step S108 of Fig. 12.

[0153] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 42, the mirror control unit 212 identifies the position (particularly, the position in the horizontal direction) of the target person P based on the face image IMG_F (step S611e).

[0154] Thereafter, the mirror control unit 212 determines whether the position of the target person P identified in step S611e satisfies a predetermined fifth position condition (step S612e). The fifth position condition may include a condition that the target person P is located in the first lane 35#1. The fifth position condition may include a condition that the target person P is located in the direction in which the rotating mirror 13#1 is facing.

[0155] If the result of the judgment in step S612e is that the position of the target person P satisfies the predetermined fifth position condition (step S612e: Yes), the mirror control unit 212 controls the rotating mirror 13#1 facing the first lane 35#1 so that the rotating mirror 13#1 reflects light L2 from the target person P located in the first lane 35#1 toward the iris camera 12#1 (step S613e).

[0156] In parallel with or before or after the operations of steps S612e to S613e, the mirror control unit 212 determines whether the position of the target person P identified in step S611e satisfies a predetermined sixth position condition different from the fifth position condition (step S614e). The sixth position condition may include a condition that the target person P is located in the second lane 35#2. The sixth position condition may include a condition that the target person P is located in the direction in which the rotating mirror 13#2 is facing.

[0157] If the result of the judgment in step S614e is that the position of the target person P satisfies the specified sixth position condition (step S614e: Yes), the mirror control unit 212 controls the rotating mirror 13#2 facing the second lane 35#2 so that the rotating mirror 13#2 reflects light L2 from the target person P located in the second lane 35#2 toward the iris camera 12#2 (step S615e).

[0158] As described above, the authentication system SYSe can use a single imaging unit 1d to capture images of multiple target persons P passing through each of the multiple lanes 35. This eliminates the need to provide multiple imaging units 1 for capturing images of multiple target persons P passing through each of the multiple lanes 35. This simplifies the configuration of the authentication system SYSe and also reduces the cost of the authentication system SYSe.

[0159] At least one of the authentication systems SYSa in the third embodiment to SYSd in the sixth embodiment may employ components specific to the seventh embodiment. The components specific to the seventh embodiment may include components related to the multiple iris cameras 12 and the multiple rotating mirrors 13.

[0160] (8) Eighth embodiment Next, an eighth embodiment of an authentication system and an imaging device will be described. An authentication system SYSf to which the eighth embodiment of the authentication system and imaging device is applied will be described below. The authentication system SYSf differs from the above-described authentication system SYS in that it includes an imaging unit 1f instead of the imaging unit 1. Other features of the authentication system SYSf may be the same as other features of the authentication system SYS. Below, an imaging unit 1f in the eighth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 43. FIG. 43 is a cross-sectional view showing a rotating mirror 13 included in the imaging unit 1f in the eighth embodiment.

[0161] 43, the imaging unit 1f differs from the imaging unit 1 described above in that a protective film 133f is formed on the reflecting surface 131 of the rotating mirror 13. Other features of the imaging unit 1f may be the same as other features of the imaging unit 1.

[0162] The protective film 133f may be capable of protecting the reflecting surface 131 to prevent damage to the reflecting surface 131. The protective film 133f may be capable of protecting the reflecting surface 131 to prevent adhesion of dirt to the reflecting surface 131. The protective film 133f may be capable of protecting the reflecting surface 131 to prevent adhesion of water to the reflecting surface 131 (i.e., to prevent moisture). As a result, the reflecting surface 131 is appropriately protected.

[0163] The protective film 133f may have an optical property that allows light L2 from the target person P to pass through the protective film 133f. As a result, the iris camera 12 can capture an image of the target person P by receiving the light L2 from the target person P (i.e., the light L2 from the iris).

[0164] Furthermore, the protective film 133f may have optical properties such that light L3 (e.g., visible light) in a wavelength band different from the wavelength band of light L2 from the target person P is attenuated by the protective film 133f. For example, the protective film 133f may have optical properties such that light L3 in a wavelength band different from the wavelength band of light L2 from the target person P is absorbed by the protective film 133f. In this case, the protective film 133f may have optical properties such that light L3 in a wavelength band different from the wavelength band of light L2 from the target person P cannot pass through the protective film 133f. In this case, because the light L2 in a wavelength band different from the wavelength band of light L2 is attenuated by the protective film 133f, the iris image IMG_I is less likely to contain noise components caused by light L3 in a wavelength band different from the wavelength band of light L2 than if the protective film 133f were not formed. As a result, the iris authentication unit 211 can authenticate the target person P with higher accuracy using the iris image IMG_I compared to when the target person P is authenticated using the iris image IMG_I that includes noise components.

[0165] As described above, in the eighth embodiment, the protective film 133f can protect the reflecting surface 131 while reducing the noise components contained in the iris image IMG_I.

[0166] At least one of the authentication systems SYSa in the third embodiment to SYSe in the seventh embodiment may employ components specific to the eighth embodiment. The components specific to the eighth embodiment may include components related to the protective film 133f.

[0167] (9) Ninth embodiment Next, a ninth embodiment of an authentication system and an imaging device will be described. An authentication system SYSg to which the ninth embodiment of the authentication system and imaging device is applied will be described below. The authentication system SYSg differs from the above-described authentication system SYS in that it includes an imaging unit 1g instead of the imaging unit 1. Other features of the authentication system SYSg may be the same as other features of the authentication system SYS. Below, the imaging unit 1g in the ninth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 44. FIG. 44 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the imaging unit 1g in the ninth embodiment.

[0168] 44, the imaging unit 1g differs from the imaging unit 1 described above in that it includes a moving device 17g. Other features of the imaging unit 1g may be the same as other features of the imaging unit 1.

[0169] The moving device 17g is capable of moving the imaging unit 1g (particularly, the housing 19 that houses the face camera 11, the iris camera 12, the rotating mirror 13, the rotating motor 14, and the display 15). For example, the moving device 17g may include a robot arm, and the imaging unit 1g may be moved using the robot arm. For example, the moving device 17g may include a guide member (e.g., a rail guide) with a slider that can move in a predetermined direction, and the imaging unit 1g may be moved using the rail guide. For example, the moving device 17g may include a self-propelled device that can self-propel, and the imaging unit 1g may be moved using the self-propelled device. For example, the moving device 17g may include an air vehicle (e.g., a drone) that can fly, and the imaging unit 1g may be moved using the air vehicle.

[0170] As shown in FIG. 45(a), the mobile device 17g may move the imaging unit 1g so that the imaging unit 1g is positioned above the lane 35 through which the target person P passes while the iris camera 12 captures an image of the target person P. In this case, the iris camera 12 can capture an image of the target person P from the front. That is, the iris camera 12 does not need to capture an image of the target person P from an oblique direction. As a result, as described above, the iris is less likely to be hidden by at least one of the eyelashes and the eyelids in the iris image IMG_I. As a result, the iris authentication unit 211 can authenticate the target person P with high accuracy.

[0171] On the other hand, if the imaging unit 1g remains positioned on the lane 35, there is a possibility that the movement of the target person P passing through the lane 35 will be obstructed by the imaging unit 1g. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 45(b), the mobile device 17g may move the imaging unit 1g so that the imaging unit 1g is retracted from the lane 35 through which the target person P passes, during a period after the target person P is authenticated. In other words, the mobile device 17g may move the imaging unit 1g so that the imaging unit 1g is positioned so that the imaging unit 1g does not obstruct the movement of the target person P passing through the lane 35, during a period after the target person P is authenticated. As a result, the movement of the target person P will not be obstructed by the imaging unit 1g.

[0172] In the ninth embodiment, the moving device 17g may perform an operation of moving the imaging unit 1g in accordance with the flowchart shown in Fig. 46. The operation shown in Fig. 46 may be performed in parallel with or before or after the operation shown in Fig. 12.

[0173] 46, the mobile device 17g determines whether the proximity sensor 34 of the gate unit 3 has detected the target person P (step S711g). If it is determined in step S711g that the proximity sensor 34 has detected the target person P (step S711g: Yes), it is presumed that the target person P will enter the lane 35 and therefore the imaging unit 1 will capture an image of the target person P. Therefore, in this case, the mobile device 17g moves the imaging unit 1g so that the imaging unit 1g is positioned above the lane 35 through which the target person P will pass (step S712g).

[0174] 12 (step S713g). If it is determined in step S713g that the authentication of the target person P is successful (step S713g: Yes), it is estimated that the target person P will pass through the lane 35. Therefore, in this case, the mobile device 17g moves the imaging unit 1g so that the imaging unit 1g retreats from the lane 35 through which the target person P will pass (step S714g).

[0175] Thus, in the ninth embodiment, since the moving device 17g is capable of moving the imaging unit 1g, the imaging unit 1g can capture an image of the eyes of the target person P from in front of the target person P without interfering with the movement of the target person P.

[0176] In addition to or instead of the imaging unit 1g being equipped with the moving device 17g, a device other than the imaging unit 1 may move the imaging unit 1. As an example, as shown in FIGS. 47(a) and 47(b), the imaging unit 1 may be disposed in the second flapper gate 33 of the gate unit 3. In this case, while the iris camera 12 is capturing an image of the target person P, the second flapper gate 33 is in the closed state as shown in FIG. 47(a), and therefore the iris camera 12 can capture an image of the target person P from the front. On the other hand, after the target person P is authenticated, if the authentication of the target person P is successful, the second flapper gate 33 is in the open state as shown in FIG. 47(b), and therefore the imaging unit 1 will not hinder the movement of the target person P.

[0177] In order to realize a state in which the imaging unit 1 captures an image of the eyes of the target person P from in front of the target person P without interfering with the movement of the target person P, a bent lane 35 may be formed as shown in Fig. 48. In other words, the lane 35 may be formed in a predetermined shape (for example, a shape different from a straight shape) designed so that the imaging unit 1 can be disposed at a position where it can capture an image of the eyes of the target person P from in front of the target person P and the imaging unit 1 does not interfere with the movement of the target person P. At least one of the authentication systems SYSa in the third embodiment to SYSf in the eighth embodiment may employ components specific to the ninth embodiment. The components specific to the ninth embodiment may include components related to the mobile device 17g.

[0178] (10) Tenth embodiment Next, a tenth embodiment of an authentication system and an imaging device will be described. The following describes an authentication system SYSh to which the tenth embodiment of the authentication system and imaging device is applied. The authentication system SYSh differs from the above-described authentication system SYS in that the rotating mirror 13 can be used as a heat dissipation fan. Specifically, the authentication system SYSh may control the rotary motor 14 so that the rotating mirror 13 functions as a heat dissipation fan by continuously rotating in the same direction. As a result, the influence of heat on the operations of the face camera 11, the iris camera 12, and the display 15 is reduced.

[0179] In the tenth embodiment, the mirror control unit 212 may operate the rotating mirror 13 as a heat dissipation fan according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 49. The operation shown in FIG. 49 may be performed in parallel with or before or after the operation shown in FIG. 12. As shown in FIG. 49, the mirror control unit 212 determines whether the temperature of the accommodation space SP1 of the housing 19 has reached or exceeded a predetermined temperature threshold (step S811h). If it is determined that the temperature of the accommodation space SP1 has reached or exceeded the predetermined temperature threshold (step S811h: Yes), the mirror control unit 212 operates the rotating mirror 13 as a heat dissipation fan (step S812h). On the other hand, if it is determined that the temperature of the accommodation space SP1 has not reached or exceeded the predetermined temperature threshold (step S811h: No), the mirror control unit 212 may not operate the rotating mirror 13 as a heat dissipation fan.

[0180] At least one of the authentication systems SYSa in the third embodiment to SYSg in the ninth embodiment described above may employ components specific to the tenth embodiment. The components specific to the ninth embodiment may include components related to the rotating mirror 13 that functions as a heat dissipation fan. However, as described above, the authentication system SYSb in the fourth embodiment includes a stopper 141b that limits the rotation of the rotating mirror 13. In this case, it is preferable that the stopper 141b does not limit the rotation of the rotating mirror 13 while the rotating mirror 13 is functioning as a heat dissipation fan. For example, the stopper 141b may be retracted (e.g., stored) to a position where it does not limit the rotation of the rotating mirror 13.

[0181] (11) Eleventh embodiment Next, an eleventh embodiment of an authentication system and an imaging device will be described. An authentication system SYSi to which the eleventh embodiment of the authentication system and the imaging device is applied will be described below. The authentication system SYSi differs from the above-described authentication system SYS in that it includes a control unit 2i instead of the control unit 2. Other features of the authentication system SYSi may be the same as other features of the authentication system SYS. Below, the control unit 2i in the eleventh embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 50. FIG. 50 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the control unit 2i in the eleventh embodiment.

[0182] 50, the control unit 2i differs from the above-described control unit 2 in that it further includes a face authentication unit 214i. Other features of the control unit 2i may be the same as other features of the control unit 2.

[0183] Next, the authentication operation performed by the control unit 2i including the face authentication section 214i will be described with reference to Fig. 51. Fig. 51 is a flowchart showing the flow of the authentication operation performed by the control unit 2i.

[0184] As shown in FIG. 51, in the eleventh embodiment, similarly to the second embodiment described above (see FIG. 12), the control unit 2i performs the operations from step S101 to step S109. However, in the eleventh embodiment, after the face camera 11 captures an image of the face of the target person P in step S104, the face authentication unit 214i acquires a face image IMG_F from the face camera 11 via the communication device 23 and authenticates the target person P based on the acquired face image IMG_F (step S109i). That is, the face authentication unit 214i performs an authentication operation related to face authentication. Specifically, the face authentication unit 214i determines whether the target person P appearing in the acquired face image IMG_F is the same as a person registered in advance (hereinafter referred to as a "registered person") based on the facial feature amount of the target person P appearing in the acquired face image IMG_F. If it is determined that the target person P reflected in the facial image IMG_F is the same as the registered person, it is determined that the authentication of the target person P has been successful. On the other hand, if it is determined that the target person P reflected in the facial image IMG_F is not the same as the registered person, it is determined that the authentication of the target person P has failed.

[0185] Thereafter, if the authentication of the target person P is successful in step S109 and also in step S109i (step S110i: Yes), the gate control unit 213 transmits a gate control signal for setting the state of the second flapper gate 33 to an open state to the gate unit 3 via the communication device 23 (step S111). On the other hand, if the authentication of the target person P is unsuccessful in step S109 and / or the authentication of the target person P is unsuccessful in step S109i (step S110i: No), the gate control unit 213 transmits a gate control signal for setting the state of the second flapper gate 33 to a closed state to the gate unit 3 via the communication device 23 (step S112).

[0186] In this way, the authentication system SYSi can authenticate the target person P more precisely by performing so-called multimodal authentication.

[0187] (12) Twelfth embodiment Next, a twelfth embodiment of an authentication system and an imaging device will be described. An authentication system SYSj to which the twelfth embodiment of the authentication system and the imaging device is applied will be described below. The authentication system SYSj differs from the above-described authentication system SYS in that it includes a gate unit 3j instead of the gate unit 3. Other features of the authentication system SYSj may be the same as other features of the authentication system SYS. The gate unit 3j differs from the gate unit 3 in that it includes an illumination device 36j instead of the illumination device 3. Other features of the gate unit 3j may be the same as other features of the gate unit 3. Below, an illumination device 36j in the twelfth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 52. FIG. 52 is a front view showing the configuration of an illumination device 3j in the twelfth embodiment.

[0188] As shown in Fig. 52, the lighting device 36j includes a plurality of light-emitting elements 361j. In the example shown in Fig. 52, the lighting device 36j includes 24 light-emitting elements 361j, but the lighting device 36j may include 23 or less light-emitting elements 361j, or may include 25 or more light-emitting elements 361j.

[0189] The plurality of light-emitting elements 361j are aligned along the Z-axis direction. The lighting device 361j may control the plurality of light-emitting elements 361j so that at least some of the plurality of light-emitting elements 361j emit illumination light IL in accordance with the height of the target person P. For example, the 24 light-emitting elements 361j may be divided into light-emitting element groups 362j each including a predetermined number of light-emitting elements 361j. In this case, the lighting device 361j may select a light-emitting element group 362j that emits illumination light IL in accordance with the height of the target person P, and a predetermined number of light-emitting elements 361j included in the selected light-emitting element group 362j may emit illumination light IL.

[0190] 52, the 24 light-emitting elements 361j are divided into a light-emitting element group 362j#1 including the first to sixth light-emitting elements 361j from the top, a light-emitting element group 362j#2 including the seventh to twelfth light-emitting elements 361j from the top, a light-emitting element group 362j#3 including the thirteenth to eighteenth light-emitting elements 361j from the top, and a light-emitting element group 362j#4 including the nineteenth to twenty-fourth light-emitting elements 361j from the top. For example, when the height of the target person P is equal to or greater than a first threshold (e.g., 190 cm), the six light-emitting elements 361j included in the light-emitting element group 362j#1 may emit illumination light IL, while the 18 light-emitting elements 361j included in the light-emitting element groups 362j#2 to 362j#4 may not emit illumination light IL. For example, if the height of the target person P is less than a second threshold (e.g., 130 cm), the 12 light-emitting elements 361j included in the light-emitting element groups 362j#3 and 362j#4 may emit illumination light IL, while the 12 light-emitting elements 361j included in the light-emitting element groups 362j#1 to 362j#2 may not emit illumination light IL.

[0191] In this way, the lighting device 36j of the authentication system SYSj can illuminate the target person P with the illumination light IL emitted by the light emitting element 361j positioned at an appropriate height in accordance with the target person P's height.

[0192] (13) Supplementary Note The following additional notes are provided regarding the above-described embodiment. [Appendix 1] an imaging means capable of capturing an image of an iris of a subject to generate an iris image; a display means capable of displaying information regarding authentication of a target using the iris image; It is equipped with at least a part of the imaging means is disposed in a space adjacent to a rear surface of the display means, the rear surface being opposite to a display surface that displays the information; The imaging means faces a direction different from the direction in which the object is present. Authentication system. [Appendix 2] the imaging means is an iris imaging means, a reflecting means having a reflecting surface capable of reflecting light from the iris toward the iris imaging means; a rotation drive means for rotating the reflecting means; a face imaging means capable of generating a face image by imaging the face of the subject; a rotation control means for specifying the position of the target's eyes based on the facial image, and for controlling the rotation drive means so that the orientation of the reflecting surface changes based on the specified eye position; 2. The authentication system of claim 1, further comprising: [Appendix 3] The camera further includes at least one of a first position adjusting means capable of adjusting the position of the iris image capturing means and a second position adjusting means capable of adjusting the position of the reflecting means. 1. The authentication system described in Appendix 2. [Appendix 4] a rotation limiting means for limiting the rotation of the reflecting means by contacting the reflecting means when the reflecting means has rotated by an allowable upper limit angle from a reference position; The rotation control means (i) controls the rotation drive means so that the reflecting means rotates until the reflecting means contacts the rotation limiting means, and (ii) calibrates the rotation drive means based on a difference between an actual command signal used to control the rotation drive means so that the reflecting means rotates until the reflecting means contacts the rotation limiting means and an ideal command signal that controls the rotation drive means so that the reflecting means rotates by the allowable upper limit angle. 10. An authentication system according to claim 2 or 3. [Appendix 5] The rotation control means controls the deceleration of the reflecting means when the rotating reflecting means stops, based on the state of the iris captured in the iris image. 5. An authentication system according to any one of claims 2 to 4. [Appendix 6] the iris image capturing means captures images of the eye a plurality of times after the rotation drive means stops the rotating reflecting means, thereby generating a plurality of iris images, The system further includes an authentication unit that selects at least one iris image in which the iris is captured at a desired position from the plurality of iris images, and authenticates the target using the selected at least one iris image. 6. An authentication system according to any one of claims 2 to 5. [Appendix 7] the reflecting means is a first reflecting means, a second reflecting means for reflecting light from the iris located at a first position toward the first reflecting means; a third reflecting means for reflecting light from the iris located at a second position different from the first position toward the first reflecting means; Further provided with The rotation control means (i) controls the first to third reflecting means so that the first reflecting means reflects the light from the second reflecting means toward the iris image capturing means when the identified eye position satisfies a predetermined position condition, and (ii) controls the first to third reflecting means so that the first reflecting means reflects the light from the third reflecting means toward the iris image capturing means when the identified eye position does not satisfy the position condition. 7. An authentication system according to any one of claims 2 to 6. [Appendix 8] the second reflecting means reflects light from the iris located at the first position toward the first reflecting means via a fourth reflecting means, The third reflecting means reflects light from the iris located at the second position toward the first reflecting means via the fourth reflecting means. 8. The authentication system of claim 7, further comprising: [Appendix 9] the iris image capturing means is a first iris image capturing means capable of capturing an image of the iris located at a first position, the reflecting means is a first reflecting means capable of reflecting light from the iris located at the first position toward the first iris imaging means, a second iris imaging means capable of generating the iris image by imaging the iris located at a second position different from the first position; a second reflecting means capable of reflecting light from the iris located at the second position toward the second iris imaging means; Further provided with The authentication system of any one of Supplementary Notes 2 to 8, wherein the rotation control means (i) identifies the position of the target based on the facial image, (ii) when the target is located at the first position, controls the first reflecting means to reflect light from the iris of the target located at the first position toward the first iris imaging means, and (iii) when the target is located at the second position, controls the second reflecting means to reflect light from the iris of the target located at the second position toward the second iris imaging means. [Appendix 10] The second position is different from the first position along at least one of a vertical direction and a horizontal direction. 10. An authentication system according to any one of appendices 7 to 9. [Appendix 11] the iris image capturing means captures an image of the iris illuminated with illumination light of a first wavelength band, A protective film is formed on the reflecting surface, the protective film allowing light in the first wavelength band to pass therethrough, attenuating light in a second wavelength band different from the first wavelength band, and protecting the reflecting surface. 11. An authentication system according to any one of claims 2 to 10. [Appendix 12] The rotation control means controls the rotation drive means so that the reflecting means functions as a heat dissipation fan by continuously rotating in the same rotation direction. 12. An authentication system according to any one of claims 2 to 11. [Appendix 13] further comprising an authentication means for authenticating the subject using the iris image; the imaging means is disposed on a path through which the object passes during a first period in which the imaging means images the object; The imaging means withdraws from the passage during a second period after the target is authenticated. 13. An authentication system according to any one of claims 1 to 12. [Appendix 14] a support means for supporting the imaging means; a housing means for housing the imaging means supported by the support means; Further provided with A part of the support means is exposed to the outside of the container means. 14. An authentication system according to any one of claims 1 to 13. [Appendix 15] an imaging means capable of capturing an image of an iris of a subject to generate an iris image; a display means capable of displaying information regarding authentication of a target using the iris image; It is equipped with at least a part of the imaging means is disposed in a space adjacent to a rear surface of the display means, the rear surface being opposite to a display surface that displays the information; The imaging means faces a direction different from the direction in which the object is present. Imaging device.

[0193] At least some of the components of each of the above-described embodiments can be appropriately combined with at least some of the other components of each of the above-described embodiments. Some of the components of each of the above-described embodiments may not be used. Furthermore, to the extent permitted by law, the disclosures of all documents (e.g., published patent applications) cited in this disclosure are incorporated by reference as part of the description of this disclosure.

[0194] This disclosure may be modified as appropriate within the scope of the claims and the technical idea that can be read from the entire specification. Authentication systems and imaging devices incorporating such modifications are also included in the technical idea of ​​this disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0195] 1 Imaging unit 11. Face Camera 12. Iris Camera 121 Optical system 122 Image sensor 13 Rotating mirror 13d Relay mirror 131 Reflective surface 132b Mirror body 133b Mirror holder 14 Rotation Motor 141b Stopper 15 Display 16 Distance Sensor 171a Camera position adjustment mechanism 172a Mirror position adjustment mechanism 17g mobile device 18 Support plate 19. Cabinet 2. Control Unit 21 Arithmetic unit 211 Iris Recognition Unit 212, 212c Mirror control unit 213 Gate control section 3 Gate Unit 31 Guide Wall 32 No. 1 Flapper Gate 33 Second Flapper Gate 34 Proximity Sensor 35 Lane 1000 Authentication System 1010 Imaging device 1020 Display device 2000 target SYS Authentication System P Target person IMG_F Facial image IMG_I Iris image

Claims

1. a first image capturing means having an image capturing element and capturing an iris image by capturing an image of an iris of a subject in a state where the display is visible; a second imaging means for capturing a face image by imaging a face of a subject in a state where the display is visible; the display that displays information regarding authentication using the face image and the iris image on a display surface; a reflecting means having a reflecting surface that intersects with an optical axis of the first imaging means extending along the display surface and intersects with an orthogonal direction that is orthogonal to the display surface; Equipped with the imaging element is disposed on the rear side of the display and overlaps the display surface when viewed from the orthogonal direction; The second imaging means is located between the imaging element and the reflecting means in the direction in which the optical axis extends when viewed from the orthogonal direction. An authentication device characterized by:

2. The reflecting means does not overlap with the display surface when viewed from the orthogonal direction.

2. The authentication device according to claim 1.

3. a rotation drive means for rotating the reflecting means via a rotation shaft; The rotation axis extends in a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the first imaging means and the perpendicular direction.

3. The authentication device according to claim 2.

4. the first imaging means has an optical system, the optical system is disposed on the rear side of the display and overlaps with the display surface when viewed from the orthogonal direction; 4. The authentication device according to claim 1, wherein the authentication device is a device for authenticating a user.

5. When viewed from a direction perpendicular to the optical axis of the first imaging means and the perpendicular direction, the second imaging means overlaps with the display in the perpendicular direction.

2. The authentication device according to claim 1.

6. A rotation control means for identifying the position of the subject's eyes based on the facial image, and controlling the rotation drive means so that the orientation of the reflecting surface changes based on the identified eye position; a rotation limiting means for limiting the rotation of the reflecting means by contacting the reflecting means when the reflecting means has rotated by an allowable upper limit angle from a reference position; The rotation control means controlling the rotation drive means so that the reflecting means rotates until the reflecting means contacts the rotation limiting means; The rotation drive means is calibrated based on a difference between an actual command signal used to control the rotation drive means so that the reflecting means rotates until the reflecting means contacts the rotation limiting means, and an ideal command signal that controls the rotation drive means so that the reflecting means rotates by the allowable upper limit angle. The authentication device according to claim 3 .

7. a first image capturing means having an image capturing element and capturing an iris image by capturing an image of an iris of a subject in a state where the display is visible; a second imaging means for capturing a face image by imaging a face of a subject in a state where the display is visible; the display that displays information regarding authentication using the face image and the iris image on a display surface; a reflecting means having a reflecting surface that intersects with an optical axis of the first imaging means extending along the display surface and intersects with an orthogonal direction that is orthogonal to the display surface; Equipped with the imaging element is disposed on the rear side of the display and overlaps the display surface when viewed from the orthogonal direction; The second imaging means is located between the imaging element and the reflecting means in the direction in which the optical axis extends when viewed from the orthogonal direction. An authentication system comprising:

Images