Authentication system, authentication device, and authentication method

Abstract

This authentication system comprises a light emitting device and an authentication device. The light emitting device comprises a light source. The light source emits authentication light including at least near-infrared light. The authentication device comprises a photographing unit, an acquisition unit, and an authentication unit. The acquisition unit acquires, from the photographing unit, a photographed living body image of light that has passed through a living body part irradiated with the authentication light. The authentication unit executes the processing of authenticating a vein pattern included in the photographed living body image.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an authentication system, an authentication device, and an authentication method.

Background Art

[0002] Biometric authentication using biometric information, which is information unique to a living body, has been carried out. For example, there is known a system for performing biometric authentication by irradiating light in a specific wavelength range onto a human body, imaging the reflected light from the human body, and analyzing the captured image (for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the above prior art, a device in which a light source and a photographing unit are mounted in a single housing acquires biometric information from the reflected light on the surface of the human body and performs biometric authentication. Therefore, in the prior art, biometric information was easily acquired, resulting in a decrease in the security of biometric authentication.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure proposes an authentication system, an authentication device, and an authentication method that can achieve highly secure biometric authentication.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, one embodiment of the authentication system according to the present disclosure is an authentication system comprising a light-emitting device and an authentication device, wherein the light-emitting device includes a light source that emits authentication light including at least near-infrared light, and the authentication device comprises an imaging unit, an acquisition unit that acquires a biological image of light transmitted through a biological part irradiated with the authentication light from the imaging unit, and an authentication unit that performs authentication processing of a vein pattern included in the biological image. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of an authentication system according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a functional block diagram of an example of an authentication system according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 3] This is an explanatory diagram of an example of a light source guide image according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 4] This is an explanatory diagram of an example of a part guide image according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 5A] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of how the distance between the light source and the imaging unit is derived according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 5B] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of how the distance between the light source and the imaging unit is derived according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 6A] This is an explanatory diagram of an example of a part guide image according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 6B] This is an explanatory diagram of an example of a part guide image according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 7A] This figure shows an example of an arrow image representing guidance information according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 7B] This figure shows an example of vibration representing guidance information according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 8A] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the display of guidance information according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 8B] This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of additional information according to the first embodiment of this disclosure. [Figure 9A]Explanatory diagram of an example of adjustment of shooting range according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B] Explanatory diagram of an example of adjustment of shooting range according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10A] Explanatory diagram of an example of a captured image including authentication light of each of a plurality of light sources according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10B] Explanatory diagram of an example of movement of a light source according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] Schematic diagram of an example of an image in which an image of a palm is superimposed on a part guidance image according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] Schematic diagram showing an example of an image representing an authentication result according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] Flowchart showing an example of information processing according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] Functional block diagram of an example of an authentication system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] Schematic diagram showing an example of a pattern of light amount control by a light amount control unit according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] Flowchart showing an example of information processing according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] Diagram showing an example of a combination of application forms of an authentication system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 18] Hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer according to the present disclosure.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail based on the drawings. In each of the following embodiments, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0009] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an authentication system 1 of the present embodiment.

[0010] The authentication system 1 is a system for authenticating an individual using biometric information of a living body part.

[0011] A living body part is a part of a living body such as a human body. Examples of living body parts include the palm, fingers, eyes, arms, legs, head, torso, and the like. In the present embodiment, an example of a form in which the living body part is the palm H of the human body will be described.

[0012] Biometric information is information unique to a living body obtained from a living body part. Examples of biometric information include vein patterns, fingerprints, palm prints, irises, and the like. In the present embodiment, an example of a form in which the biometric information is a vein pattern will be described.

[0013] The authentication system 1 includes a light emitting device 10 and an authentication device 20. The light emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 are configured as separate bodies. That is, the light emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 are configured to be incorporated in different housings.

[0014] In the present embodiment, the light emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 are communicably connected. In the present embodiment, an example of a form in which the light emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 are wirelessly connected will be described.

[0015] The light emitting device 10 is a device that emits authentication light L. A light source 12 and a QR (Quick Response) code (registered trademark) 13 are provided in the housing 11 of the light emitting device 10.

[0016] The light source 12 emits the authentication light L. The authentication light L is light that at least includes near-infrared light. The light source 12 only needs to be able to emit the authentication light L including light in the near-infrared wavelength region. For example, the light source 12 is an LED (Light Emitting Diode) or the like.

[0017] The QR code (registered trademark) 13 is provided at a position in the housing 11 that can be photographed by a photographing unit 22 described later. Details of the QR code 13 will be described later.

[0018] Authentication device 20 is a device for authenticating individuals.

[0019] The authentication device 20 includes an imaging unit 22 and a display unit 23. The imaging unit 22 obtains captured image data that captures at least near-infrared light. The imaging unit 22 is, for example, a digital camera or an image scanner. Hereafter, the captured image data will be simply referred to as the captured image.

[0020] The display unit 23 displays various images. The display unit 23 is, for example, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, a liquid crystal display, etc. In this embodiment, a configuration in which the display unit 23 is a touch panel having a display function and a reception function for receiving operation instructions from the user will be described as an example.

[0021] In this embodiment, the display unit 23 is described as being positioned on the back side of the housing 21 relative to the imaging unit 22. Therefore, by looking at the display unit 23, the user can confirm the captured image of the light source 12 and palm H, etc., taken by the imaging unit 22 positioned on the back side of the display unit 23. Note that the display unit 23 and the imaging unit 22 may be arranged on the same surface of the housing 21. In this embodiment, the case where the authentication device 20 is a smartphone carried by the user is described as an example.

[0022] In the authentication system 1, when a user using the authentication device 20 holds their palm H over the authentication light L of the light source 12, the authentication light L is irradiated onto the palm H. The authentication device 20 performs the authentication process using a biometric image, which is an image of the light that has passed through the palm H irradiated with the authentication light L.

[0023] Figure 2 is a functional block diagram of an example of the authentication system 1 of this embodiment.

[0024] The light-emitting device 10 comprises a light source 12, a QR code 13, a communication unit 14, a position drive unit 15, a power receiving unit 16, a storage unit 17, and a control unit 18. The light source 12, communication unit 14, position drive unit 15, power receiving unit 16, storage unit 17, and control unit 18 are communicated with each other.

[0025] The communication unit 14 is a communication interface for direct communication with the authentication device 20. The communication unit 14 may also be a communication interface for communicating with the authentication device 20 via a network or the like.

[0026] The position drive unit 15 is a drive unit that moves the position of the light source 12. The light source 12 is supported by the housing 11 of the light-emitting device 10 via the position drive unit 15. The position of the light source 12 supported by the position drive unit 15 is moved by the drive of the position drive unit 15. As the position drive unit 15 moves the position of the light source 12, the irradiation position of the authentication light L is moved.

[0027] The position drive unit 15 may also be configured to include a mirror inside, and the irradiation position of the authentication light L may be moved by adjusting the tilt of the mirror.

[0028] The power receiving unit 16 receives power wirelessly from the authentication device 20 and supplies it to each part of the electronic equipment of the light-emitting device 10. Therefore, in this embodiment, the light-emitting device 10 can operate as long as it is powered by the authentication device 20.

[0029] In this embodiment, the case in which the light-emitting device 10 is equipped with a position drive unit 15 and a power receiving unit 16 is described as an example. However, the light-emitting device 10 may be configured without at least one of the position drive unit 15 and the power receiving unit 16. In the case where the power receiving unit 16 is not provided, the light-emitting device 10 may be configured to receive power from an external power source other than the authentication device 20.

[0030] The memory unit 17 stores various types of data.

[0031] The control unit 18 performs information processing in the light-emitting device 10. The control unit 18 comprises a receiving unit 18A and a light intensity control unit 18B. Some or all of the receiving unit 18A and the light intensity control unit 18B may be implemented by, for example, having a processing unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) execute a program, i.e., by software, by hardware such as an IC (Integrated Circuit), or by using a combination of software and hardware.

[0032] The receiving unit 18A receives various signals from the authentication device 20 via the communication unit 14. In this embodiment, the receiving unit 18A receives a light intensity signal from the authentication device 20 via the communication unit 14. The light intensity signal is a signal representing the light intensity of the authentication light L.

[0033] The light intensity control unit 18B controls the light source 12 to emit authentication light L, which is the light intensity represented by the light intensity signal received by the receiving unit 18A. The light source 12 emits authentication light L, which is the light intensity corresponding to the control of the light intensity control unit 18B.

[0034] Next, we will describe the authentication device 20.

[0035] The authentication device 20 comprises an imaging unit 22, a display unit 23, a communication unit 24, a vibration drive unit 25, a storage unit 26, a power supply unit 27, and a control unit 28. The imaging unit 22, display unit 23, communication unit 24, vibration drive unit 25, storage unit 26, power supply unit 27, and control unit 28 are communicated together.

[0036] The communication unit 24 is a communication interface for direct communication with the light-emitting device 10. The communication unit 24 may also be a communication interface for communicating with the light-emitting device 10 via a network or the like.

[0037] The vibration drive unit 25 is a drive unit that vibrates the authentication device 20. The vibration drive unit 25 is configured to allow adjustment of the vibration period, vibration direction, and vibration intensity.

[0038] The memory unit 26 stores various types of data.

[0039] The power supply unit 27 supplies power to the light-emitting device 10 via wireless power transfer.

[0040] In this embodiment, an example is described in which the authentication device 20 includes a vibration drive unit 25 and a power supply unit 27. However, the authentication device 20 may also be configured without at least one of the vibration drive unit 25 and the power supply unit 27.

[0041] The control unit 28 performs information processing in the authentication device 20. The control unit 28 includes a light source position adjustment unit 28A, a preliminary light intensity adjustment unit 28B, a reading unit 28C, a biological position adjustment unit 28D, an acquisition unit 28E, a light intensity adjustment unit 28F, and an authentication unit 28G. Some or all of the light source position adjustment unit 28A, the preliminary light intensity adjustment unit 28B, the reading unit 28C, the biological position adjustment unit 28D, the acquisition unit 28E, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F, and the authentication unit 28G may be implemented, for example, by having a processing unit such as a CPU execute a program, i.e., by software, by hardware such as an IC, or by using a combination of software and hardware.

[0042] The light source position adjustment unit 28A adjusts the position of the light source 12 relative to the imaging unit 22. The light source position adjustment unit 28A prompts the user to adjust the position of the authentication device 20 by displaying a light source guidance image on the display unit 23 that represents the recommended position for receiving the authentication light L relative to the imaging unit 22.

[0043] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a light source guidance image 32. Before the user holds their palm H over the authentication light L, the light source position adjustment unit 28A displays an image on the display unit 23 that shows the location where the light source 12 should be captured by the imaging unit 22. Specifically, the light source position adjustment unit 28A controls the display unit 23 to display the light source guidance image 32. The light source guidance image 32 is an image that shows the recommended position for receiving the authentication light L for the imaging unit 22. Figure 3 shows a circular light source guidance image 32 as an example of the light source guidance image 32. However, the shape of the light source guidance image 32 is not limited to a circle.

[0044] The light source position adjustment unit 28A displays an image on the display unit 23 in which the light source guidance image 32 is superimposed on the captured image of the light source 12. At this time, the light source position adjustment unit 28A may highlight the light source 12. For example, the light source position adjustment unit 28A may display an image on the display unit 23 in which an effect has been added to the authentication light L received by the capture unit 22.

[0045] Furthermore, the light source position adjustment unit 28A may display a message to inform the user to move the authentication device 20 so that the light source 12 is within the frame of the light source guide image 32. The user moves the authentication device 20 so that the light source 12 is within the light source guide image 32 while looking at the display unit 23. This adjusts the receiving position of the authentication light L so that the imaging unit 22 of the authentication device 20 can receive the authentication light L at a predetermined position.

[0046] Returning to Figure 2, the explanation continues. The preliminary light intensity adjustment unit 28B adjusts the light intensity of the authentication light L in advance before acquiring the vein pattern of the palm H. In other words, the preliminary light intensity adjustment unit 28B adjusts the light intensity of the light source 12 when the palm H is not held between the light source 12 and the imaging unit 22.

[0047] The auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B determines whether or not a second light intensity signal is stored in the memory unit 26. The definition of the second light intensity signal will be described later. If the auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B does not have a second light intensity signal stored in the memory unit 26, it transmits a predetermined initial light intensity signal to the light-emitting device 10. The light intensity control unit 18B of the light-emitting device 10 controls the light source 12 to emit authentication light L corresponding to the light intensity of the initial light intensity signal received from the authentication device 20.

[0048] Meanwhile, if the second light intensity signal is stored in the memory unit 26, the auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B transmits the second light intensity signal to the light-emitting device 10. The light intensity control unit 18B of the light-emitting device 10 controls the light source 12 to emit authentication light L corresponding to the light intensity of the second light intensity signal received from the authentication device 20.

[0049] The auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B determines whether the brightness of the authentication light L captured by the imaging unit 22 is within the brightness range. The brightness range can be predetermined. For example, the brightness range should be higher than the brightness at which the authentication light L becomes unidentifiable due to the influence of ambient light. Alternatively, the brightness range should be lower than the brightness at which overexposure occurs due to color saturation or brightness saturation.

[0050] If the brightness of the authentication light L captured by the imaging unit 22 is outside the brightness range, the auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B transmits a light intensity signal to the light emitter 10 that represents a different light intensity than the captured authentication light L. For example, consider the case where the brightness of the authentication light L captured by the imaging unit 22 is below the brightness range. In this case, the auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B transmits a light intensity signal to the light emitter 10 that exceeds the light intensity represented by the previously transmitted light intensity signal. On the other hand, consider the case where the brightness of the authentication light L captured by the imaging unit 22 exceeds the brightness range. In this case, the auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B transmits a light intensity signal to the light emitter 10 that is less than the light intensity represented by the previously transmitted light intensity signal. The auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B then repeats the acquisition of the captured image each time a different light intensity signal is transmitted.

[0051] Then, if the brightness of the authentication light L captured by the imaging unit 22 is within the brightness range, the preliminary light intensity adjustment unit 28B stores the light intensity signal of the authentication light L captured within the brightness range as a second light intensity signal in the storage unit 26. In other words, the second light intensity signal is a signal representing the light intensity of the authentication light L when the authentication device 20 captures the authentication light L within the brightness range. Therefore, during the next authentication process, the preliminary light intensity adjustment unit 28B can control the light source 12 of the light-emitting device 10 to emit authentication light L with the light intensity of the second light intensity signal, which was determined to be within the brightness range in the previous test.

[0052] The reading unit 28C reads guidance information. Guidance information is information for guiding the position of the palm H relative to the imaging unit 22. In this embodiment, the reading unit 28C reads the guidance information by reading the QR code 13. The reading unit 28C reads the guidance information represented by the QR code 13 by analyzing the QR code 13 captured by the imaging unit 22.

[0053] The biological position adjustment unit 28D adjusts the position of the palm H relative to the imaging unit 22. The biological position adjustment unit 28D prompts the user to adjust the position of the palm H by displaying a body part guidance image on the display unit 23.

[0054] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of an example of a body part guidance image 34A. Body part guidance image 34A is an example of a body part guidance image 34. Body part guidance image 34 is an image that shows the recommended position of a biological body part relative to the imaging unit 22. In other words, body part guidance image 34 is an image that shows the placement of the palm H to be authenticated relative to the imaging unit 22 when the light source 12 is positioned in the recommended position by the light source position adjustment unit 28A. That is, body part guidance image 34 is an image that guides the placement of the palm H so that the authentication light L is irradiated onto the area of ​​the palm H to be authenticated, and the light that passes through the palm H is received by the imaging unit 22.

[0055] The body part guidance image 34 is preferably shaped to conform to the shape of the biological body part. In this embodiment, the case where the biological body part is the palm H will be described as an example. For this reason, the biological position adjustment unit 28D displays a body part guidance image 34 shaped to conform to the outer shape of the palm H on the display unit 23. At this time, the biological position adjustment unit 28D displays an image on the display unit 23 in which the body part guidance image 34 is superimposed on the image captured by the light source 12. Therefore, the user can confirm the location where the palm H should be placed while visually confirming the position of the body part guidance image 34 relative to the light source 12.

[0056] Furthermore, from an ergonomic standpoint, it is preferable that the body part guidance image 34 is an image representing the state in which the palm H is inserted into the field of view of the imaging unit 22 from a direction inclined within a range of 0° to less than 90° with respect to the long or short side of the rectangular display unit 23.

[0057] The biological position adjustment unit 28D displays, for example, a body part guidance image 34 of a predetermined size on the display unit 23.

[0058] The size of a user's palm H varies depending on physical characteristics such as gender, age, build, and genetic factors. Furthermore, the position in which the palm H is held relative to the imaging unit 22 varies from user to user.

[0059] Therefore, it is preferable that the biological position adjustment unit 28D displays a local area guidance image 34 on the display unit 23, which has a size and shape corresponding to at least one of the size of the palm H and the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the palm H.

[0060] For example, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D estimates the size of the palm H according to information representing the user's physical characteristics, such as gender and age, stored in the memory unit 26. For example, if the user is male, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D estimates a larger palm H size compared to if the user is female. Also, if the user is a child, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D estimates a smaller palm H size compared to if the user is an adult. The bio-position adjustment unit 28D then displays a body part guide image 34 that mimics the shape of the palm H of the estimated size on the display unit 23.

[0061] Furthermore, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may display a body part guidance image 34 on the display unit 23, the size of which corresponds to the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the palm H. For example, the biological position adjustment unit 28D derives the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the light source 12 of the light-emitting device 10 as the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the palm H. In this case, for example, the biological position adjustment unit 28D derives the distance between the light source 12 and the imaging unit 22 using the QR code 13 captured by the imaging unit 22.

[0062] Figures 5A and 5B are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of deriving the distance between the light source 12 and the imaging unit 22. The QR code 13 is assumed to be a square. The biological position adjustment unit 28D pre-stores the length of one side of the QR code 13, Wqr [mm], and the imaging angle θ [deg] of the imaging unit 22 in the storage unit 26. The biological position adjustment unit 28D also pre-stores the number of pixels in the width of the display unit 23, pw [pixel], in the storage unit 26. The width of the display unit 23 is the width in the direction of arrow X in Figure 5B.

[0063] Furthermore, the biological position adjustment unit 28D identifies Pqr [pixels], which is the number of display pixels for the width of the QR code 13 captured by the imaging unit 22 and displayed on the display unit 23. The biological position adjustment unit 28D also identifies kz, which is the zoom magnification of the imaging unit 22 when the QR code 13 was captured.

[0064] The width of the field of view of the imaging unit 22 at the location of the QR code 13 is expressed by the following formula (1).

[0065] The width of the field of view of the camera unit 22 = d × tan(θ / 2) × 2 = kz × pw × Wqr / Pqr Equation (1)

[0066] Therefore, from equation (1), the following equation (2) holds true.

[0067] d=kz×pw×Wqr / (2×Pqr×tan(θ / 2)) Equation (2)

[0068] In equation (2), d represents the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the QR code 13. The biological position adjustment unit 28D uses equation (2) to calculate the distance d between the imaging unit 22 and the QR code 13. The biological position adjustment unit 28D then derives the calculated distance d as the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the palm H.

[0069] Furthermore, the biological position adjustment unit 28D can determine the distance between the light source 12 and the imaging unit 22 using a mark or other component provided on the housing 11 of the light-emitting device 10, and is not limited to determining the distance using a QR code 13.

[0070] The biological position adjustment unit 28D displays a body part guidance image 34 on the display unit 23, which is larger the closer the distance between the derived imaging unit 22 and the palm H is, and smaller the further the distance is. Alternatively, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may display a body part guidance image 34 on the display unit 23 that is sized and shaped according to both the size of the user's palm H and the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the palm H.

[0071] Figure 6A is an explanatory diagram of an example of a body part guidance image 34B. Body part guidance image 34B is an example of a body part guidance image 34. Body part guidance image 34B is an example of a body part guidance image 34 that is smaller in size than the body part guidance image 34A shown in Figure 4. For example, when the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the light source 12 is short, it is assumed that the user is an adult or male. In this case, the biological position adjustment unit 28D displays, for example, the body part guidance image 34A shown in Figure 4 on the display unit 23. On the other hand, when the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the light source 12 is far, it is assumed that the user is a child or female. In this case, for example, the biological position adjustment unit 28D displays, for example, the body part guidance image 34B shown in Figure 6A on the display unit 23.

[0072] The bio-position adjustment unit 28D may further store information in the storage unit 26 indicating whether the right hand or the left hand is to be used for authentication. In this case, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D should display on the display unit 23 a part guidance image 34 with a shape corresponding to the information representing the right hand or left hand stored in the storage unit 26. Alternatively, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D may display on the display unit 23 part guidance images 34 representing both the right hand and the left hand.

[0073] Figure 6B is an explanatory diagram of an example of part-of-body guide image 34C. Part-of-body guide image 34C is an example of part-of-body guide image 34. Furthermore, part-of-body guide image 34C is an example of part-of-body guide image 34 with a shape corresponding to the palm H of the hand on the side different from Figures 5 and 6A, among the right and left hands.

[0074] Thus, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may display a part guidance image 34 with a shape corresponding to the information representing the right or left hand stored in the memory unit 26 on the display unit 23.

[0075] The biological position adjustment unit 28D may estimate the size of the palm H and its orientation relative to the imaging unit 22 from the external shape of the palm H captured by the imaging unit 22. Then, a body part guide image 34 that mimics the shape of the palm H of the estimated size may be displayed on the display unit 23 in the estimated orientation of the palm H.

[0076] The bio-position adjustment unit 28D may also display the body part guidance image 34 that was displayed on the display unit 23 during the previous authentication. In this case, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D only needs to read information from the storage unit 26 indicating the size and orientation of the body part guidance image 34 that was previously displayed on the display unit 23. Then, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D should display the body part guidance image 34 with the size and orientation stored in the storage unit 26 on the display unit 23. Furthermore, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D may further adjust the size of the displayed body part guidance image 34 according to the distance and the user's physical characteristics.

[0077] Furthermore, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may display guidance information on the display unit 23. Guidance information is information to guide the user to the correct position of the palm H relative to the imaging unit 22. Guidance information can be represented by text, images, vibrations, etc.

[0078] Figure 7A shows an example of an arrow image 44A representing guidance information. As shown in Figure 7A, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may display guidance information by displaying an arrow image 44A representing the direction of movement of the palm H on the display unit 23.

[0079] Figure 7B shows an example of vibration 44B representing guidance information. The biological position adjustment unit 28D may output guidance information by generating vibration 44B representing the direction of the recommended position of the palm H to the vibration drive unit 25.

[0080] Furthermore, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may display guidance information obtained by reading the QR code 13 with the reading unit 28C on the display unit 23.

[0081] Figure 8A is an explanatory diagram of an example of the display of guidance information. For example, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D may display guidance information on the display unit 23 using augmented reality (AR) technology. The bio-position adjustment unit 28D may also display guidance information on the display unit 23 using AR technology by reading the QR code 13. Figure 8A shows an example of a form in which guidance information is displayed by overlaying a character 45, which is digital content, onto a real-world landscape and guiding the position of the palm H to the character 45.

[0082] Furthermore, the QR code 13 may also be a code that represents additional information in addition to the guidance information. The additional information may include, for example, a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) for accessing a server device that provides various services in the area including the current location of the authentication device 20, or information about the server device. The information about the server device may include, for example, the content of the services provided by the store that manages the server device, the user's visit history to the store, and so on.

[0083] Figure 8B is an explanatory diagram of an example of additional information 46. As shown in Figure 8B, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D may further display the additional information 46 on the display unit 23. The bio-position adjustment unit 28D may also display the additional information 46 on the display unit 23 after authentication by the authentication unit 28G, which will be described later, is successful. The bio-position adjustment unit 28D may also use information about the user stored in the memory unit 26 to obtain information of interest to the user in a known manner and display it on the display unit 23. The bio-position adjustment unit 28D may also display a button image for the user to select whether the displayed additional information 46 was useful to the user or not. If the user selects that it was not useful based on their operation instructions, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D may omit displaying the additional information 46 from the next time onward.

[0084] The biological position adjustment unit 28D may also adjust the imaging range of the imaging unit 22 relative to the palm H by controlling the zoom mechanism of the imaging unit 22.

[0085] Figures 9A and 9B are explanatory diagrams illustrating an example of adjusting the shooting range. For example, when reading the QR code 13, the biological position adjustment unit 28D controls the digital zoom mechanism of the shooting unit 22 to adjust the display unit 23 so that the subject is displayed in the center. Through this adjustment, the biological position adjustment unit 28D can adjust the display unit 23 so that the same position in real space is stably captured and displayed in the same position.

[0086] The biological position adjustment unit 28D may also control the optical zoom function of the imaging unit 22. Alternatively, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may control both the digital zoom function and the optical zoom function of the imaging unit 22. In this case, the biological position adjustment unit 28D can adjust the imaging range using the optical zoom function, and then further adjust the imaging range using the digital zoom.

[0087] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of increasing the degree of freedom in the position where the palm H is placed, the light-emitting device 10 may be configured to include multiple light sources 12 with different irradiation positions for the authentication light L.

[0088] Figure 10A is an explanatory diagram of an example of a captured image including the authentication light L from each of the multiple light sources 12. By configuring the light-emitting device 10 to have multiple light sources 12, the user does not need to precisely adjust the position of their palm H during authentication. Therefore, the authentication system 1 can increase the degree of freedom in the position of the palm H to be authenticated.

[0089] Alternatively, the light source 12 of the light-emitting device 10 may be configured to move. For example, at least one of the light source position adjustment unit 28A and the biological position adjustment unit 28D transmits a movement signal to the light-emitting device 10 that indicates an instruction to move the position of the light source 12. The light intensity control unit 18B of the light-emitting device 10 can then drive the position drive unit 15 to move the light source 12 in the direction and by the amount of movement indicated by the received movement signal.

[0090] Figure 10B is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the movement of the light source 12. The light source 12 moves, for example, in the direction of arrow X or arrow Y, through the movement control of at least one of the light source position adjustment unit 28A and the bio-position adjustment unit 28D. As a result, the user can be illuminated with authentication light L without having to precisely adjust the position of their palm H.

[0091] When the palm H is held between the imaging unit 22 and the light source 12, the biological position adjustment unit 28D displays an image on the display unit 23 in which the image of the palm H captured by the imaging unit 22 is superimposed on the body part guidance image 34.

[0092] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of an example of an image in which an image of the palm H is superimposed on a body part guidance image 34. When the position of the palm H on the display unit 23 matches the position of the body part guidance image 34, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D outputs an adjusted signal to the acquisition unit 28E indicating that the bio-position adjustment has been completed. The bio-position adjustment unit 28D may also display an image 36 representing the authentication target area when the position of the palm H on the display unit 23 matches the position of the body part guidance image 34. The authentication target area is the area to be authenticated.

[0093] Furthermore, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may determine whether or not the palm H is a real human palm by analyzing the movement of the palm H included in the captured image. If it determines that it is a real human palm H, it may output an adjusted signal to the acquisition unit 28E indicating that the biological position adjustment has been completed.

[0094] Returning to Figure 2, we continue the explanation.

[0095] The acquisition unit 28E acquires a biological image from the imaging unit 22 of the light transmitted through the palm H that has been irradiated with the authentication light L.

[0096] As described above, the light source position adjustment unit 28A and the bio-position adjustment unit 28D adjust the receiving position of the authentication light L by the imaging unit 22 and the position of the palm H so that the authentication light L is irradiated onto the authentication target area of ​​the palm H and the light that passes through the palm H is received by the imaging unit 22. When the acquisition unit 28E receives the adjusted signal from the bio-position adjustment unit 28D, it acquires the image captured by the imaging unit 22 as a bio-image. In other words, the acquisition unit 28E acquires the image captured by the imaging unit 22 with the authentication light L receiving position and the position of the palm H adjusted as a bio-image.

[0097] The near-infrared light contained in the authentication light L emitted from the light source 12 easily penetrates the body and has a high absorption rate in the vein area. The authentication light L emitted onto the palm H and incident inside the palm H propagates within the palm H while scattering in various directions. Some of this light travels through the palm H from the light source 12 side towards the imaging unit 22 side, passing through the veins along the way. The light that has passed through the veins is incident on the imaging unit 22. The imaging unit 22 captures the incident light and obtains a biological image. Therefore, the biological image includes shadows that may occur due to some of the light being absorbed in the veins. These shadows represent the vein pattern of the veins in the palm H. Therefore, the acquisition unit 28E can acquire a biological image that includes the vein pattern.

[0098] The light intensity adjustment unit 28F adjusts the light intensity of the authentication light L when the palm H is authenticated. In other words, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F adjusts the light intensity of the light source 12 when the palm H is held between the light source 12 and the imaging unit 22. The light intensity adjustment unit 28F adjusts the light intensity of the light source 12 using the biological image captured.

[0099] The light intensity adjustment unit 28F determines whether or not the first light intensity signal is stored in the memory unit 26. The definition of the first light intensity signal will be described later. If the first light intensity signal is not stored in the memory unit 26, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F transmits a predetermined initial light intensity signal to the light-emitting device 10. The initial light intensity signal may be the same as or different from the initial light intensity signal used by the auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B. On the other hand, if the first light intensity signal is stored in the memory unit 26, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F transmits the first light intensity signal to the light-emitting device 10.

[0100] The light intensity control unit 18B of the light-emitting device 10 controls the light source 12 to emit authentication light L with an intensity corresponding to the light intensity signal acquired from the authentication device 20. For this reason, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F acquires a biological image from the acquisition unit 28E of the light transmitted to the light-emitting device 10, which is illuminated by the authentication light L with an intensity corresponding to the light intensity signal.

[0101] The light intensity adjustment unit 28F extracts vein patterns contained in the acquired biological image. The light intensity adjustment unit 28F can extract vein patterns using known image analysis methods or the like. The light intensity adjustment unit 28F then determines whether the color difference between the vein patterns contained in the acquired biological image and the external region, which is the area of ​​the biological image other than the vein patterns, is greater than or equal to a threshold. The color difference represents the difference in the average values ​​of the pixel values. The color difference may be the difference in the average values ​​of luminance or brightness represented by the pixel values, or it may be the difference in the average values ​​of the RGB color values. The threshold can be predetermined to be a color difference value of a vein pattern that can be used for authentication processing.

[0102] If the color difference between the vein pattern of the acquired biological image and the external area is less than a threshold, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F transmits a light intensity signal to the light-emitting device 10 that represents a different light intensity than the authentication light L used when the biological image was captured. The light intensity adjustment unit 28F then repeats the acquisition of a biological image of the palm H irradiated with different light intensity authentication light L each time a light intensity signal is transmitted.

[0103] Then, if the color difference between the vein pattern of the acquired biological image and the external area is greater than or equal to a threshold, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F stores the light intensity signal at the time of capturing the biological image as a first light intensity signal in the storage unit 26. Therefore, during the next authentication process, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F can control the light source 12 of the light-emitting device 10 to emit authentication light L at the light intensity of the first light intensity signal, which was determined to have a color difference below the threshold in the previous process.

[0104] The authentication unit 28G performs authentication processing of vein patterns contained in biological images. The authentication unit 28G performs authentication processing of vein patterns using biological images in which the color difference between the vein pattern contained in the biological image and the external area other than the vein pattern is greater than or equal to a threshold.

[0105] For example, the authentication unit 28G compares the vein pattern contained in the biological image with a pre-stored vein template. If the vein pattern and the vein template match or are similar to a predetermined standard, the authentication unit 28G considers the authentication of the vein pattern to be successful. On the other hand, if the vein pattern and the vein template do not match or the similarity is below a predetermined standard, the authentication unit 28G considers the authentication of the vein pattern to be unsuccessful.

[0106] The authentication unit 28G then displays an image showing the authentication result on the display unit 23.

[0107] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an image representing the authentication result. For example, the authentication unit 28G displays information indicating "Authentication OK" on the display unit 23 as an authentication result indicating that authentication was successful. The authentication unit 28G may also display an image 40 representing the vein pattern on the display unit 23.

[0108] The authentication unit 28G may perform authentication processing that combines the vein pattern with other biometric information. For example, the authentication unit 28G may perform authentication processing that combines the vein pattern with at least one of the palm print pattern of the palm H and fingerprint information. The palm print pattern and fingerprint information can be obtained by analyzing the captured biometric image using a known image processing method.

[0109] Next, an example of information processing performed by the authentication device 20 of this embodiment will be described.

[0110] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing an example of information processing performed by the authentication device 20 of this embodiment. It should be assumed that the imaging unit 22 continuously acquires images while the authentication device 20 is performing information processing.

[0111] The light source position adjustment unit 28A transmits a light emission start signal to the light-emitting device 10 via the communication unit 24 (step S100). Upon receiving the light emission start signal, the light intensity control unit 18B of the light-emitting device 10 controls the light source 12 to start emitting the authentication light L. As a result, the light source 12 starts emitting the authentication light L. The light source 12 may also start emitting the authentication light L in response to an operation instruction from the user to the light-emitting device 10 or the light source 12.

[0112] The light source position adjustment unit 28A determines whether or not the light source 12 is located within the shooting angle of the shooting unit 22 (step S102). The light source position adjustment unit 28A makes the determination in step S102 by determining whether or not the authentication light L of the light source 12 is captured in the captured image taken by the shooting unit 22.

[0113] If a negative judgment is made in step S102 (step S102: No), the light source position adjustment unit 28A displays a message on the display unit 23 prompting the camera unit 22 to point towards the light source 12. The light source position adjustment unit 28A then repeats the negative judgment (step S102: No) until a positive judgment is made in step S102 (step S102: Yes). If a positive judgment is made in step S102 (step S102: Yes), the process proceeds to step S104.

[0114] In step S104, the light source position adjustment unit 28A adds an effect to the authentication light L received by the shooting unit 22 and displays the enhanced image on the display unit 23 (step S104).

[0115] Then, the light source position adjustment unit 28A displays the light source guidance image 32 on the display unit 23 (step S106). For this reason, the display unit 23 displays, for example, the image shown in Figure 3.

[0116] Next, the light source position adjustment unit 28A determines whether the light source 12 is located within the frame of the light source guide image 32 (step S108). The light source position adjustment unit 28A repeats the negative determination (step S108: No) until it makes an affirmative determination (step S108: Yes). Assume that the light source 12 is located within the frame of the light source guide image 32 when the user adjusts the position or tilt of the authentication device 20. In this case, the light source position adjustment unit 28A makes an affirmative determination (step S108: Yes) in step S108 and proceeds to step S110.

[0117] In step S110, the auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B determines whether or not a second light intensity signal is stored in the memory unit 26 (step S110). If the determination in step S110 is negative (step S110: No), the process proceeds to step S114. The auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B transmits the initial light intensity signal to the light-emitting device 10 (step S114), and the process proceeds to step S116, which will be described later. On the other hand, if the determination in step S110 is positive (step S110: Yes), the process proceeds to step S112. In step S112, the auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B transmits the second light intensity signal stored in the memory unit 26 to the light-emitting device 10 (step S112). The process then proceeds to step S116.

[0118] Upon receiving an initial or second light intensity signal, the light intensity control unit 18B of the light-emitting device 10 controls the light source 12 to emit authentication light L corresponding to the light intensity of the received light intensity signal. Therefore, the light source 12 emits authentication light L corresponding to the light intensity of the light intensity signal received from the authentication device 20.

[0119] The auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B determines whether the brightness of the authentication light L captured by the imaging unit 22 is within the brightness range (step S116). If it is outside the brightness range (step S116: No), the process proceeds to step S118. In step S118, the auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B transmits a light intensity signal to the light-emitting device 10 that represents a different light intensity than the light intensity of the authentication light L captured in step S116 (step S118). Then, the process returns to step S116.

[0120] In other words, the preliminary light intensity adjustment unit 28B transmits a light intensity signal to the light-emitting device 10 that represents a different light intensity than the light intensity of the authentication light L emitted from the light source 12 at the time of the determination in step S116. The light intensity control unit 18B of the light-emitting device 10, upon receiving the light intensity signal, controls the light source 12 to emit the authentication light L at the light intensity of the received light intensity signal. As a result, the light source 12 emits the authentication light L with a modified light intensity. The preliminary light intensity adjustment unit 28B then repeats the process of the negative determination in step S116 (step S116: No) and the process in step S118 until it makes an affirmative determination in step S116 (step S116: Yes).

[0121] If a positive determination is made in step S116 (step S116: Yes), the auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B stores the light intensity signal at the time of shooting of the authentication light L, which was determined to be within the brightness range in step S116, as a second light intensity signal in the storage unit 26 (step S120). In other words, the auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B stores the light intensity signal used for the emission of the authentication light L, which has been adjusted to be within the brightness range by the processing in steps S110 to S118, as a second light intensity signal in the storage unit 26.

[0122] Next, the reading unit 28C reads the QR code 13 (step S122). The reading unit 28C analyzes the QR code 13 captured by the imaging unit 22 and reads the guidance information represented by the QR code 13.

[0123] Next, the biological position adjustment unit 28D uses the QR code 13 captured in step S122 to derive the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the palm H (step S124). The biological position adjustment unit 28D derives the distance d between the imaging unit 22 and the QR code 13, calculated using the above formula (2), as the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the palm H.

[0124] Next, the biological position adjustment unit 28D displays the body part guidance image 34 on the display unit 23 (step S126). The biological position adjustment unit 28D displays the body part guidance image 34 on the display unit 23, which has a size and orientation corresponding to at least one of the information representing the user's physical characteristics such as gender and age stored in the memory unit 26, and the distance derived in step S124.

[0125] As a result of the processing in step S126, for example, the body part guidance image 34 shown in Figure 5, Figure 6A, or Figure 6B is displayed on the display unit 23. As mentioned above, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D may also display guidance information using AR technology shown in Figure 8A on the display unit 23. In this case, the bio-position adjustment unit 28D should display the guidance information obtained from the QR code 13 read in step S122 on the display unit 23. The bio-position adjustment unit 28D may also further display additional information 46 shown in Figure 8B. The display of additional information 46 may be performed after authentication by the authentication unit 28G is successful.

[0126] When the part guidance image 34 is displayed on the display unit 23 as a result of the processing in step S126, the user places their palm H between the imaging unit 22 and the light source 12.

[0127] Next, the biological position adjustment unit 28D determines whether the position of the palm H coincides with the position of the body part guidance image 34 (step S128). The biological position adjustment unit 28D only needs to determine whether the position of the palm H coincides with the position of the body part guidance image 34 within a predetermined range. If the determination in step S128 is negative, the process proceeds to step S130.

[0128] In step S130, the biological position adjustment unit 28D outputs information to guide the palm H to the recommended position (step S130). Then, the process returns to step S128. For example, the biological position adjustment unit 28D displays the guidance information on the display unit 23. By displaying the guidance information, for example, an arrow image 44A representing the direction of movement of the palm H, as shown in Figure 7A, is displayed on the display unit 23. Also, for example, the biological position adjustment unit 28D controls the vibration drive unit 25 to output vibrations representing the guidance information. By controlling the vibration drive unit 25, for example, vibrations 44B representing the direction of the recommended position of the palm H are generated, as shown in Figure 7B.

[0129] In step S130, the user moves their palm H to the recommended position while viewing the display unit 23. Specifically, the user adjusts the position of their palm H to match the part guide image 34 displayed on the display unit 23.

[0130] Furthermore, when making the determination in step S128, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may further determine whether the position of the light source 12 is outside the light source guide image 32. If the biological position adjustment unit 28D determines that the position of the light source 12 is outside the light source guide image 32, it should return to step S106. In this case, if the position of the light source 12 is within the light source guide image 32 and the position of the palm H coincides with the body part guide image 34, then a positive determination should be made in step S128 (step S128: Yes).

[0131] If a positive judgment is made in step S128 (Step S128: Yes), the process proceeds to step S132. In step S132, the biological position adjustment unit 28D determines whether the shooting angle of the shooting unit 22 is appropriate (Step S132). In step S132, the biological position adjustment unit 28D determines whether there is any tilt or blur in the shooting unit 22. The biological position adjustment unit 28D repeats negative judgments (Step S132: No) until a positive judgment is made in step S132 (Step S132: Yes). If a positive judgment is made in step S132 (Step S132: Yes), the process proceeds to step S134.

[0132] Furthermore, when making the determination in step S132, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may determine whether the position of the palm H is outside the area guidance image 34, or whether the position of the light source 12 is outside the light source guidance image 32. If the biological position adjustment unit 28D determines that the position of the palm H is outside the area guidance image 34, it should return to step S126. Also, if it determines that the position of the light source 12 is outside the light source guidance image 32, it should return to step S106.

[0133] In this case, if the position of the light source 12 is within the light source guide image 32, the position of the palm H coincides with the body part guide image 34, and the shooting angle of view of the shooting unit 22 is appropriate, then a positive judgment can be made in step S132.

[0134] In step S134, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F determines whether or not the first light intensity signal is stored in the memory unit 26 (step S134). If the first light intensity signal is not stored in the memory unit 26 (step S134: No), the process proceeds to step S136. In step S136, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F transmits an initial light intensity signal to the light-emitting device 10 (step S136). Then, the process proceeds to step S140, which will be described later.

[0135] If the first light intensity signal is stored in the memory unit 26 (step S134: Yes), proceed to step S138. In step S138, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F transmits the first light intensity signal stored in the memory unit 26 to the light-emitting device 10 (step S138). Then proceed to step S140.

[0136] Upon receiving an initial light intensity signal or a first light intensity signal, the light intensity control unit 18B of the light-emitting device 10 controls the light source 12 to emit authentication light L corresponding to the light intensity of the received light intensity signal. Therefore, the light source 12 emits authentication light L corresponding to the light intensity of the light intensity signal received from the authentication device 20.

[0137] The light intensity adjustment unit 28F acquires a biological image from the acquisition unit 28E of the light transmitted to the light emission device 10 by the authentication light L of the light intensity signal, which has passed through the palm H illuminated by the light (step S140).

[0138] The light intensity adjustment unit 28F extracts the vein pattern contained in the biological image acquired in step S140 (step S142). The light intensity adjustment unit 28F determines whether the color difference between the vein pattern contained in the biological image acquired in step S142 and the external region, which is the region other than the vein pattern in the biological image, is greater than or equal to a threshold (step S144).

[0139] If the color difference is less than the threshold (Step S144: No), proceed to Step S146. In Step S146, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F transmits a light intensity signal to the light-emitting device 10 that represents a different light intensity than the light intensity of the authentication light L used when capturing the biological image acquired in Step 140 (Step S146). Then, return to Step S140.

[0140] If the color difference between the vein pattern in the biological image acquired in step S140 and the external region is greater than or equal to a threshold (step S144: Yes), the light intensity adjustment unit 28F proceeds to step S148. In step S148, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F stores the light intensity signal at the time of capturing the biological image as a first light intensity signal in the storage unit 26 (step S148). That is, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F stores the light intensity signal used for emitting the authentication light L, which has been adjusted by the processing in steps S138 to S146 to obtain a biological image containing a vein pattern whose color difference is greater than or equal to a threshold, as a second light intensity signal in the storage unit 26.

[0141] Next, the authentication unit 28G uses the bio-image acquired in step S140, in which the color difference between the vein pattern and the external area other than the vein pattern is greater than or equal to a threshold, to perform authentication processing of the vein pattern contained in the bio-image (step S150). Then, this routine ends.

[0142] As described above, the authentication system 1 of this embodiment comprises a light-emitting device 10 and an authentication device 20. The light-emitting device 10 comprises a light source 12. The light source 12 emits authentication light L which includes at least near-infrared light. The authentication device 20 comprises an imaging unit 22, an acquisition unit 28E, and an authentication unit 28G. The acquisition unit 28E acquires a biological image from the imaging unit 22 of light transmitted through a biological part irradiated with authentication light L. The authentication unit 28G performs authentication processing of the vein pattern included in the biological image.

[0143] Conventional technology used a device that mounted a light source and an imaging unit in a single housing to acquire biometric information from reflected light on the surface of the human body and perform biometric authentication. For example, biometric authentication was performed by irradiating the human body with light containing red from a light source and receiving the reflected light with an imaging unit mounted in the same device as the light source. The biometric information obtained from the reflected light on the surface of the human body is obtained from the surface layer of the body and has low security. In addition, because a device that mounts the light source and light-receiving element in a single housing is used, biometric information from the surface of the human body can be easily obtained, and authentication unintended by the user, such as surreptitious photography, could be performed by other users. For this reason, conventional technology suffered from a decrease in the security of biometric authentication.

[0144] On the other hand, in this embodiment, the authentication system 1 consists of a light-emitting device 10 and an authentication device 20 as separate components. The authentication unit 28G performs authentication processing using a vein pattern included in a biological image of light transmitted through a biological site irradiated with authentication light L, which includes at least near-infrared light.

[0145] In the authentication system 1 of this embodiment, since it uses a biological image of light transmitted through a biological part irradiated with authentication light L including near-infrared light, it becomes possible to perform authentication processing using biological information from deep within the body. Furthermore, in the authentication system 1 of this embodiment, since the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 are configured as separate units, the safety and security of authentication can be improved compared to a configuration in which the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 are integrated.

[0146] Therefore, the authentication system 1 of this embodiment can achieve highly secure biometric authentication.

[0147] Furthermore, the authentication system 1 of this embodiment is configured with the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 as separate components. Therefore, in addition to the above-mentioned effects, it is possible to miniaturize each of the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20. In addition, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom in the shape and size of the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20.

[0148] Furthermore, by configuring the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 as separate components, it becomes possible to use any biological body part as the target of authentication, from small parts such as fingertips to larger parts such as arms and abdomen, without limiting the body part to a specific area.

[0149] Furthermore, in the authentication system 1 of this embodiment, by executing the information processing in steps S100 to S150, the relationship between the light source 12, the palm H, and the light source 12 is finalized, and the authentication process can be executed. Therefore, in addition to the above effects, the authentication system 1 of this embodiment can achieve robust biometric authentication.

[0150] Furthermore, the authentication unit 28G performs authentication processing on vein patterns included in biological images of biological parts that have been irradiated with multiple types of authentication light L with different light intensities, and whose color difference from external areas other than the vein patterns included in the biological images is greater than or equal to a threshold.

[0151] The thickness of biological tissues such as the palm (H) varies from person to person. In particular, there is significant individual variation in the thickness of the palm (H). Furthermore, in order to capture light transmitted through a biological tissue, it is necessary to illuminate it with authentication light L of sufficient intensity according to the biological tissue. If the intensity of authentication light L is too strong, it may become difficult to distinguish the vein pattern from the external area.

[0152] On the other hand, in the authentication system 1 of this embodiment, multiple types of authentication light L with different light intensities are irradiated onto the biological tissue. The authentication system 1 then performs authentication processing using biological images of the biological tissue irradiated with multiple types of authentication light L, specifically using images of vein patterns where the color difference from the external area is greater than or equal to a threshold. Therefore, the authentication system 1 of this embodiment can perform highly accurate authentication processing regardless of variations in the thickness of the biological tissue.

[0153] Furthermore, the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 are connected in a communicative manner. The authentication device 20 includes a light intensity adjustment unit 28F. The light intensity adjustment unit 28F transmits a light intensity signal representing the light intensity of the authentication light L to the light-emitting device 10. The light source 12 of the light-emitting device 10 emits authentication light L at a light intensity represented by the light intensity signal received from the authentication device 20. The light intensity adjustment unit 28F stores a first light intensity signal, which is a light intensity signal of the light intensity at the time of capturing a biological image containing a vein pattern in which the color difference between the vein pattern and the external area is greater than or equal to a threshold. Before acquiring the biological image, the light intensity adjustment unit 28F transmits the first light intensity signal to the light-emitting device 10.

[0154] In the authentication system 1 of this embodiment, a first light intensity signal is stored, which is the light intensity signal at the time of acquisition of a biological image of a biological body part irradiated with authentication light L of different light intensities, and which includes a vein pattern whose color difference from the external area is greater than or equal to a threshold. Then, the authentication system 1 transmits the first light intensity signal to the light-emitting device 10 before acquiring the biological image. That is, the light-emitting device 10 is controlled to irradiate with authentication light L of the same intensity as the first light intensity signal that was irradiated when a biological image determined to be greater than or equal to the threshold in the previous instance was obtained. Therefore, in addition to the above effects, the authentication system 1 of this embodiment can perform highly accurate authentication processing in a short time.

[0155] The authentication device 20 also includes a display unit 23 and a light intensity adjustment unit 28F. The light intensity adjustment unit 28F displays a light source guidance image 32 on the display unit 23, which represents the recommended position for receiving the authentication light L for the imaging unit 22.

[0156] Since the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 are configured as separate units, the position of the imaging unit 22 relative to the light source 12 is not fixed. However, in the authentication system 1 of this embodiment, a light source guidance image 32 representing the recommended position for receiving the authentication light L for the imaging unit 22 is displayed on the display unit 23. Therefore, the user can easily adjust the position of the authentication device 20 while referring to the light source guidance image 32. In other words, in addition to the above effects, the authentication system 1 can perform highly accurate authentication processing.

[0157] Furthermore, the authentication device 20 includes a biological position adjustment unit 28D. The biological position adjustment unit 28D displays a body part guidance image 34 on the display unit 23, which represents the recommended position of the body part relative to the imaging unit 22.

[0158] Since the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 are configured as separate units, the position of the imaging unit 22 relative to the light source 12 is not fixed. Furthermore, because the position of the authentication device 20 is adjusted by the user, the position of the authentication device 20 may fluctuate over time. In addition, the position of the biological site to which the authentication light L is irradiated may also fluctuate.

[0159] On the other hand, in the authentication system 1 of this embodiment, a body part guidance image 34 representing the recommended position of a biological body part relative to the imaging unit 22 is displayed on the display unit 23. Therefore, the user can easily adjust the position of the authentication device 20 while referring to the body part guidance image 34. In other words, in addition to the above effects, the authentication system 1 can perform highly accurate authentication processing.

[0160] Furthermore, the biological position adjustment unit 28D displays a body part guide image 34 on the display unit 23, which has a size and shape corresponding to at least one of the size of the body part and the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the body part.

[0161] There are individual differences in the size of biological body parts. For example, the size of the palm H varies depending on physical characteristics such as gender and build. Also, the position of the imaging unit 22 relative to the light source 12 may fluctuate. On the other hand, in the authentication system 1 of this embodiment, the biological position adjustment unit 28D displays a body part guide image 34 on the display unit 23, which has a size and shape corresponding to at least one of the size of the biological body part and the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the biological body part. Therefore, the user can easily adjust the position of the authentication device 20 while referring to the body part guide image 34. In other words, in addition to the above effects, the authentication system 1 can perform highly accurate authentication processing.

[0162] Furthermore, the authentication device 20 includes a reading unit 28C. The reading unit 28C reads guidance information to guide the position of the biological tissue relative to the imaging unit 22. For example, the reading unit 28C reads the guidance information by reading the QR code 13. The biological position adjustment unit 28D displays the guidance information on the display unit 23. Therefore, in addition to the above effects, the authentication system 1 of this embodiment makes it easy for the user to be guided to the recommended position of the biological tissue relative to the imaging unit 22.

[0163] Furthermore, the biological position adjustment unit 28D generates vibrations in the vibration drive unit 25 that vibrate the authentication device 20, indicating the direction of the recommended position of the biological body part relative to the imaging unit 22. Therefore, in addition to the above effects, the authentication system 1 of this embodiment makes it easy for the user to be guided to the recommended position of the biological body part relative to the imaging unit 22.

[0164] Furthermore, the authentication device 20 includes a backup light intensity adjustment unit 28B. If the brightness of the authentication light L captured by the imaging unit 22 is outside a predetermined brightness range, the backup light intensity adjustment unit 28B transmits a light intensity signal to the light-emitting device 10 that represents a different light intensity than the light intensity of the authentication light L. If the brightness of the authentication light L is within the brightness range, the biological position adjustment unit 28D displays the body part guidance image 34 on the display unit 23.

[0165] In this way, the preliminary light intensity adjustment unit 28B determines whether the brightness of the authentication light L is within the brightness range before the biological body part is illuminated by the authentication light L, according to the body part guidance image 34. If it is outside the brightness range, the preliminary light intensity adjustment unit 28B transmits a light intensity signal representing a different light intensity to the light-emitting device 10. Therefore, in the authentication system 1 of this embodiment, the light intensity of the authentication light L can be adjusted before the biological body part is illuminated by the authentication light L, according to the body part guidance image 34.

[0166] In this embodiment, the case in which the authentication device 20 is equipped with a pre-light intensity adjustment unit 28B was described as an example. However, the authentication device 20 may also be configured without a pre-light intensity adjustment unit 28B.

[0167] Furthermore, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may control the zoom mechanism of the imaging unit 22 to adjust the imaging range of the imaging unit 22 relative to the biological body part.

[0168] Furthermore, the light-emitting device 10 may include a plurality of light sources 12 with different irradiation positions for the authentication light L. The light-emitting device 10 may also be configured to include a position drive unit 15 for moving the positions of the light sources 12.

[0169] By configuring the light-emitting device 10 to include multiple light sources 12, or to include a position drive unit 15, the degree of freedom in positioning the biological tissue can be increased.

[0170] (Second embodiment) In the first embodiment described above, a configuration in which the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 are connected in a communicative manner was explained as an example. However, the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 do not need to be configured as separate units and are not limited to a configuration in which they are connected in a communicative manner. In this embodiment, a configuration in which the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 do not communicate will be described.

[0171] In this embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for parts with the same functions and components as in the first embodiment, and detailed descriptions may be omitted.

[0172] Figure 14 is a functional block diagram of an example of the authentication system 1B of this embodiment.

[0173] The authentication system 1B comprises a light-emitting device 10B and an authentication device 20B. The light-emitting device 10B and the authentication device 20B are configured as separate components. Furthermore, the light-emitting device 10B and the authentication device 20B are configured not to communicate with each other.

[0174] The light-emitting device 10B comprises a light source 12, a QR code 13, a communication unit 14B, a power receiving unit 16, a storage unit 17, and a control unit 19. The light source 12, the communication unit 14B, the power receiving unit 16, the storage unit 17, and the control unit 19 are connected in a communicative manner. The light-emitting device 10B has the same configuration as the light-emitting device 10 of the first embodiment, except that it includes a communication unit 14B and a control unit 19 instead of a communication unit 14 and a control unit 18, and does not include a position drive unit 15.

[0175] The communication unit 14B is a communication interface for communicating with an external information processing device of the light-emitting device 10B. However, the communication unit 14B does not communicate with the authentication device 20B. Note that the light-emitting device 10B may be configured without the communication unit 14B.

[0176] The control unit 19 includes a light intensity control unit 19B. The light intensity control unit 19B controls the light source 12 to sequentially emit multiple types of authentication light L with different light intensities. For example, the light intensity control unit 19B controls the light source 12 to repeat a pattern in which the light intensity changes in multiple stages over time.

[0177] Figure 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a light intensity control pattern by the light intensity control unit 19B. The light intensity control pattern has multiple different types of light intensities pre-set according to variations in the thickness of the palm H being authenticated. For example, the light intensity control pattern has multiple types of light intensities set according to various conditions such as physical characteristics such as gender, age, build, and genetic factors, as well as the distance between the light source 12 and the palm H, the distance between the palm H and the imaging unit 22, and the distance between the light source 12 and the imaging unit 22. In other words, the light intensity control pattern has light intensities that can accommodate various conditions of the user's palm H. Furthermore, the light intensity control pattern is configured to periodically repeat a sub-pattern that changes in stages from a small light intensity to a large light intensity over time.

[0178] The light intensity control unit 19B can store the light intensity control pattern shown in Figure 15 in the memory unit 17 beforehand and use it to control the light source 12.

[0179] The light intensity control unit 19B controls the light source 12 to emit authentication light L of a light intensity represented by the light intensity control pattern shown in Figure 15 in a time series when power supply to the light-emitting device 10B is started. Alternatively, the light intensity control unit 19B may also control the light source 12 to emit authentication light L of a light intensity represented by the light intensity control pattern shown in Figure 15 in a time series when a signal to start emitting light from the light source 12 is input, such as an operation instruction from the user on the control unit.

[0180] Returning to Figure 14, let's continue the explanation. We will now describe the authentication device 20B.

[0181] The authentication device 20B comprises an imaging unit 22, a display unit 23, a communication unit 24B, a vibration drive unit 25, a storage unit 26, a power supply unit 27, and a control unit 29. The imaging unit 22, the display unit 23, the communication unit 24B, the vibration drive unit 25, the storage unit 26, the power supply unit 27, and the control unit 29 are communicated with each other.

[0182] The authentication device 20B has the same configuration as the authentication device 20 of the first embodiment, except that it is equipped with a communication unit 24B instead of a communication unit 24 and a control unit 29 instead of a control unit 28.

[0183] The communication unit 24B is a communication interface for communicating with an external information processing device of the authentication device 20B. However, the communication unit 24B does not communicate with the light-emitting device 10B.

[0184] The control unit 29 performs information processing in the authentication device 20B. The control unit 29 includes a light source position adjustment unit 28A, a reading unit 28C, a biometric position adjustment unit 28D, an acquisition unit 29E, and an authentication unit 29G. Some or all of the light source position adjustment unit 28A, the reading unit 28C, the biometric position adjustment unit 28D, the acquisition unit 29E, and the authentication unit 29G may be implemented by, for example, having a processing unit such as a CPU execute a program, i.e., by software, by hardware such as an IC, or by using a combination of software and hardware.

[0185] The light source position adjustment unit 28A, the reading unit 28C, and the biological position adjustment unit 28D are the same as in the first embodiment. The control unit 29 of this embodiment is configured in such a way as the control unit 28 of the first embodiment, but without the auxiliary light intensity adjustment unit 28B and the light intensity adjustment unit 28F.

[0186] As described above, the authentication device 20B in this embodiment is configured not to communicate with the light-emitting device 10B. Furthermore, the light-emitting device 10B controls the light source 12 not by the authentication device 20B, but according to the light intensity control pattern stored in the memory unit 17 of the light-emitting device 10B, so as to repeat a pattern in which the light intensity changes in multiple stages over time.

[0187] Therefore, in the authentication system 1B of this embodiment, the light-emitting device 10B emits authentication light L with a multi-stage change in light intensity over time, without being controlled by the authentication device 20B.

[0188] Furthermore, the control unit 29 of this embodiment includes an acquisition unit 29E and an authentication unit 29G instead of the acquisition unit 28E and authentication unit 28G.

[0189] The acquisition unit 29E acquires a biological image of the light that has passed through the palm H, which has been irradiated with authentication light L, from the imaging unit 22.

[0190] As described above, in the authentication system 1B of this embodiment, the light-emitting device 10B emits authentication light L with a multi-stage change in light intensity over time. Therefore, the acquisition unit 29E acquires biological images corresponding to each of the multiple types of authentication light L with different light intensities.

[0191] The authentication unit 29G performs authentication processing of the vein pattern contained in the biological image, similar to the authentication unit 28G in the first embodiment. In this embodiment, among a plurality of biological images with different light intensities of authentication light L acquired by the acquisition unit 29E, the authentication processing of the vein pattern contained in the biological image is performed using the biological image in which the color difference between the vein pattern and the external area other than the vein pattern is greater than or equal to a threshold.

[0192] Furthermore, the authentication unit 29G may determine whether the color difference between the vein pattern in the bio-image and the external region is greater than or equal to a threshold each time the acquisition unit 29E acquires a bio-image of the palm H irradiated with a new amount of authentication light L.The authentication unit 29G may then perform authentication processing using the bio-image when the acquisition unit 29E acquires a bio-image in which the color difference is greater than or equal to a threshold.

[0193] Thus, in the case where the light-emitting device 10B and the authentication device 20B do not communicate, the light-emitting device 10B can be configured to emit authentication light L with a multi-stage change in light intensity over time. The authentication device 20B can then perform highly accurate authentication processing by using a biological image of the palm H illuminated with authentication light L of an appropriate intensity.

[0194] Next, an example of information processing performed by the authentication device 20B of this embodiment will be described.

[0195] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing an example of information processing performed by the authentication device 20B of this embodiment. It is assumed that the imaging unit 22 continuously acquires images during the execution of information processing by the authentication device 20B. Furthermore, it is assumed that the emission of authentication light L from the light source 12 by the light-emitting device 10B begins before the start of information processing by the authentication device 20B.

[0196] The light source position adjustment unit 28A determines whether or not the light source 12 is located within the shooting angle of the shooting unit 22 (step S200). The light source position adjustment unit 28A makes the determination in step S200 by determining whether or not the authentication light L of the light source 12 is captured in the captured image taken by the shooting unit 22.

[0197] If a negative judgment is made in step S200 (step S200: No), the light source position adjustment unit 28A displays a message on the display unit 23 prompting the camera unit 22 to point towards the light source 12. The light source position adjustment unit 28A then repeats the negative judgment (step S200: No) until a positive judgment is made in step S200 (step S200: Yes). If a positive judgment is made in step S200 (step S200: Yes), the process proceeds to step S202.

[0198] In step S202, the light source position adjustment unit 28A adds an effect to the authentication light L received by the shooting unit 22 and displays the enhanced image on the display unit 23 (step S202).

[0199] Then, the light source position adjustment unit 28A displays the light source guidance image 32 on the display unit 23 (step S204). For this reason, the display unit 23 displays, for example, the image shown in Figure 3.

[0200] Next, the light source position adjustment unit 28A determines whether the light source 12 is located within the frame of the light source guide image 32 (step S206). The light source position adjustment unit 28A repeats the negative determination (step S206: No) until it makes an affirmative determination (step S206: Yes). Assume that the light source 12 is located within the frame of the light source guide image 32 when the user adjusts the position or tilt of the authentication device 20. In this case, the light source position adjustment unit 28A makes an affirmative determination (step S206: Yes) in step S206 and proceeds to step S208.

[0201] Next, the reading unit 28C reads the QR code 13 (step S208). The reading unit 28C analyzes the QR code 13 captured by the imaging unit 22 and reads the guidance information represented by the QR code 13.

[0202] Next, the biological position adjustment unit 28D uses the QR code 13 captured in step S208 to derive the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the palm H (step S210). The biological position adjustment unit 28D derives the distance d between the imaging unit 22 and the QR code 13, calculated using the above formula (2), as the distance between the imaging unit 22 and the palm H.

[0203] Next, the biological position adjustment unit 28D displays the body part guidance image 34 on the display unit 23 (step S212). The biological position adjustment unit 28D displays the body part guidance image 34 on the display unit 23, which has a size and orientation corresponding to at least one of the information representing the user's physical characteristics such as gender and age stored in the memory unit 26, and the distance derived in step S210.

[0204] As a result of the processing in step S212, for example, the body part guidance image 34 shown in Figure 5, Figure 6A, or Figure 6B is displayed on the display unit 23. As mentioned above, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may also display guidance information using AR technology shown in Figure 8A on the display unit 23. In this case, the biological position adjustment unit 28D should display the guidance information obtained from the QR code 13 read in step S122 on the display unit 23. The biological position adjustment unit 28D may also further display additional information 46 shown in Figure 8B. The display of additional information 46 may be performed after authentication by the authentication unit 28G.

[0205] When the part guidance image 34 is displayed on the display unit 23 as a result of the processing in step S212, the user places their palm H between the imaging unit 22 and the light source 12.

[0206] Next, the biological position adjustment unit 28D determines whether the position of the palm H matches the position of the body part guidance image 34 (step S214). If the determination in step S214 is negative, the process proceeds to step S216.

[0207] In step S216, the biological position adjustment unit 28D outputs information to guide the palm H to the recommended position (step S216). Then, the process returns to step S214. For example, the biological position adjustment unit 28D displays the guidance information on the display unit 23. By displaying the guidance information, for example, an arrow image 44A representing the direction of movement of the palm H, as shown in Figure 7A, is displayed on the display unit 23. Also, for example, the biological position adjustment unit 28D controls the vibration drive unit 25 to output vibrations representing the guidance information. By controlling the vibration drive unit 25, for example, vibrations 44B representing the direction of the recommended position of the palm H are generated, as shown in Figure 7B.

[0208] In step S216, the user moves their palm H to the recommended position while viewing the display unit 23. Specifically, the user adjusts the position of their palm H to match the part guide image 34 displayed on the display unit 23.

[0209] Furthermore, when making the determination in step S214, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may further determine whether the position of the light source 12 is outside the light source guide image 32. If the biological position adjustment unit 28D determines that the position of the light source 12 is outside the light source guide image 32, it should return to step S204. In this case, if the position of the light source 12 is within the light source guide image 32 and the position of the palm H coincides with the body part guide image 34, then a positive determination should be made in step S214 (step S214: Yes).

[0210] If a positive judgment is made in step S214 (Step S214: Yes), the process proceeds to step S218. In step S218, the biological position adjustment unit 28D determines whether the shooting angle of the shooting unit 22 is appropriate (Step S218). In step S218, the biological position adjustment unit 28D determines whether there is any tilt or blur in the shooting unit 22. The biological position adjustment unit 28D repeats the negative judgment (Step S218: No) until a positive judgment is made in step S218 (Step S218: Yes). If a positive judgment is made in step S218 (Step S218: Yes), the process proceeds to step S220.

[0211] Furthermore, when making the determination in step S218, the biological position adjustment unit 28D may determine whether the position of the palm H is outside the area guidance image 34, or whether the position of the light source 12 is outside the light source guidance image 32. If the biological position adjustment unit 28D determines that the position of the palm H is outside the area guidance image 34, or that the position of the light source 12 is outside the light source guidance image 32, it may return to step S212 or step S204.

[0212] Furthermore, in this case, if the position of the light source 12 is within the light source guide image 32, the position of the palm H coincides with the body part guide image 34, and the shooting angle of view of the shooting unit 22 is appropriate, then a positive judgment can be made in step S218.

[0213] In step S220, the acquisition unit 29E acquires a biological image of the light transmitted through the palm H, which has been irradiated with the authentication light L, from the imaging unit 22 (step S220). In the authentication system 1B of this embodiment, the light-emitting device 10B emits authentication light L with the light intensity changed in multiple stages over time. Therefore, the acquisition unit 29E acquires biological images corresponding to each of the multiple types of authentication light L with different light intensities.

[0214] The authentication unit 29G extracts the vein patterns contained in each of the multiple biological images with different light intensities of the authentication light L acquired in step S220 (step S222).

[0215] Then, the authentication unit 29G uses one of the multiple biological images acquired in step S220 in which the color difference between the extracted vein pattern and the external region is greater than or equal to a threshold, and performs authentication processing of the vein pattern contained in that biological image (step S224). Then, this routine ends.

[0216] As described above, in this embodiment, the authentication system 1B is configured such that the light-emitting device 10B and the authentication device 20B do not communicate with each other. The light source 12 of the light-emitting device 10B emits multiple types of authentication light L with different light intensities. Specifically, the light source 12 emits authentication light L with multi-stage changes in light intensity over time. The authentication unit 29G of the authentication device 20B uses a biological image from among multiple biological images with different light intensities of authentication light L in which the color difference between the vein pattern and the external area other than the vein pattern is greater than or equal to a threshold, and performs authentication processing of the vein pattern contained in the biological image.

[0217] If the light-emitting device 10B and the authentication device 20B are not configured to communicate, the authentication device 20B does not control the light intensity of the authentication light L emitted by the light-emitting device 10B. Therefore, in this embodiment, the light source 12 of the light-emitting device 10B emits multiple types of authentication light L with different light intensities. The authentication device 20B uses a biological image from among multiple biological images with different light intensities of authentication light L in which the color difference between the vein pattern and the external area other than the vein pattern is greater than or equal to a threshold, and performs authentication processing of the vein pattern contained in the biological image.

[0218] Therefore, in the authentication system 1B of this embodiment, authentication processing can be performed with high accuracy even in a configuration where the light-emitting device 10B and the authentication device 20B do not communicate with each other.

[0219] Therefore, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the authentication system 1B of this embodiment can perform authentication processing with high accuracy.

[0220] In the authentication system 1 of the first embodiment, there may be cases where the light-emitting device 10B and the authentication device 20B cannot communicate, or where it is desirable to shorten the communication time or authentication time. In such cases, the authentication system 1B of this embodiment may be applied to the first embodiment described above.

[0221] (Examples of application) Next, examples of applications of the authentication system 1 of the first embodiment and the authentication system 1B of the second embodiment will be described.

[0222] Authentication System 1 and Authentication System 1B are applicable to any system that requires personal authentication.

[0223] For example, the light-emitting device 10 and the light-emitting device 10B can be implemented by any device that includes a light source 12 and a control unit 18 or a control unit 19.

[0224] For example, the light-emitting device 10 may be installed in information processing devices such as mobile terminals and smartphones, storage media such as USB memory, key systems that are unlocked and locked by information processing devices such as smartphones, robots, game controllers, game consoles, electronic earphones, safes, coin lockers, mailboxes, head-mounted displays, smartwatches, or wearable devices. The light-emitting device 10B may also be installed in transportation equipment such as motorcycles or automobiles, home appliances such as televisions, audio equipment or refrigerators, locking devices such as keys, time recorders, vending machines for tickets or goods or automated service machines such as ATMs (Automated Teller Machines), and other devices that require personal authentication.

[0225] Furthermore, the authentication device 20 and the authentication device 20B can be implemented by any device that includes a shooting unit 22, a display unit 23, and a control unit 28 or a control unit 29. For example, the authentication device 20 and the authentication device 20B can be implemented by an information processing device such as a mobile terminal, smartphone, or tablet terminal, a digital camera, a single-lens reflex camera, a game console, or a wearable device.

[0226] Figure 17 shows an example of a combination of application forms of the authentication system 1 in which the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 communicate.

[0227] Figure 17 shows an example of the six possible combinations of A through F.

[0228] Combination A includes communication units (14, 24) for each of the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 to communicate with each other, with the light-emitting device 10 having a light source 12 and the authentication device 20 having an imaging unit 22. In combination A, the device targeted for security deactivation through authentication is the light-emitting device 10, and the light-emitting device 10 operates on an independent power supply rather than being powered by the authentication device 20.

[0229] In this case, for example, by bringing the authentication device 20 closer to the light-emitting device 10, communication between the authentication device 20 and the light-emitting device 10 is initiated. Under the control of the authentication device 20, the light source 12 of the light-emitting device 10 begins to emit authentication light L. The authentication device 20 performs the authentication process using the bio-image of the light transmitted through the palm H that has been illuminated with the authentication light L. Then, if the authentication unit 28G of the authentication device 20 successfully authenticates the vein pattern through the authentication process, it unlocks the security of the light-emitting device 10. With this security unlocked, for example, the user of the authentication device 20 can use the light-emitting device 10 with administrator privileges.

[0230] Therefore, by applying the authentication system 1 of the above embodiment to combination A, security can be improved.

[0231] Combination B includes communication units (14, 24) for each of the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 to communicate with each other, with the light-emitting device 10 having a light source 12 and the authentication device 20 having an imaging unit 22. In combination B, the device to be unlocked by the authentication process is the light-emitting device 10, and the light-emitting device 10 operates by wireless power supply from the authentication device 20.

[0232] In this case, for example, by bringing the authentication device 20 closer to the light-emitting device 10, power supply from the authentication device 20 to the light-emitting device 10 is disclosed, and communication between the authentication device 20 and the light-emitting device 10 is initiated. Under the control of the authentication device 20, the light source 12 of the light-emitting device 10 starts emitting authentication light L. The authentication device 20 performs the authentication process using the bio-image of the light transmitted through the palm H that has been illuminated with the authentication light L. Then, if the authentication unit 28G of the authentication device 20 successfully authenticates the vein pattern through the authentication process, it unlocks the security of the light-emitting device 10. With this security unlocked, for example, the user of the authentication device 20 can use the light-emitting device 10 with administrator privileges. Also, if the light-emitting device 10 is an electronic safe, the lock on the light-emitting device 10 is released.

[0233] Therefore, by applying the authentication system 1 of the above embodiment to combination B, security can be improved.

[0234] Combination C includes communication units (14, 24) for each of the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 to communicate with each other, with the light-emitting device 10 having a light source 12 and the authentication device 20 having an imaging unit 22. In combination C, the device targeted for security deactivation through authentication is the authentication device 20, and the light-emitting device 10 operates on an independent power supply rather than being powered by the authentication device 20.

[0235] In this case, for example, by bringing the authentication device 20 closer to the light-emitting device 10, communication between the authentication device 20 and the light-emitting device 10 is initiated. Under the control of the authentication device 20, the light source 12 of the light-emitting device 10 begins to emit authentication light L. The authentication device 20 performs authentication processing using a bio-image of the light transmitted through the palm H that has been illuminated with authentication light L. Then, if the authentication unit 28G of the authentication device 20 successfully authenticates the vein pattern through the authentication processing, it deactivates the security of the authentication device 20. By deactivating this security, for example, the user of the authentication device 20 can use specific applications installed on the authentication device 20, or items used within those applications. This helps to suppress unauthorized use of applications and items on the authentication device 20.

[0236] Therefore, by applying the authentication system 1 of the above embodiment to combination C, security can be improved.

[0237] Combination D includes communication units (14, 24) for each of the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 to communicate with each other, with the light-emitting device 10 having a light source 12 and the authentication device 20 having an imaging unit 22. In combination D, the device to be unlocked by the authentication process is the authentication device 20, and the light-emitting device 10 operates by wireless power supply from the authentication device 20.

[0238] In this case, for example, by bringing the authentication device 20 closer to the light-emitting device 10, power supply from the authentication device 20 to the light-emitting device 10 is disclosed, and communication between the authentication device 20 and the light-emitting device 10 is initiated. Under the control of the authentication device 20, the light source 12 of the light-emitting device 10 starts emitting authentication light L. The authentication device 20 performs authentication processing using a bio-image of the light transmitted through the palm H that has been irradiated with authentication light L. Then, if the authentication unit 28G of the authentication device 20 successfully authenticates the vein pattern through the authentication processing, it deactivates the security of the authentication device 20. By deactivating this security, for example, the user of the authentication device 20 can access data stored in a hidden folder stored in the authentication device 20. This helps to deter unauthorized use of the authentication device 20. Furthermore, if the data stored in the folder is confidential information, security for that confidential information can be enhanced.

[0239] Therefore, by applying the authentication system 1 of the above embodiment to combination D, security can be improved.

[0240] Combination E includes communication units (14, 24) for each of the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 to communicate with each other, with the light-emitting device 10 having a light source 12 and the authentication device 20 having an imaging unit 22. In combination E, both the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 are devices whose security is to be unlocked by the authentication process, and the light-emitting device 10 operates on an independent power supply rather than being powered by the authentication device 20.

[0241] In this case, for example, by bringing the authentication device 20 closer to the light-emitting device 10, communication between the authentication device 20 and the light-emitting device 10 is initiated. Under the control of the authentication device 20, the light source 12 of the light-emitting device 10 begins to emit authentication light L. The authentication device 20 performs authentication processing using a bio-image of the light transmitted through the palm H illuminated by the authentication light L. Then, if the authentication processing successfully authenticates the vein pattern, the authentication unit 28G of the authentication device 20 releases the security of the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20. With this security released, for example, it becomes possible to transfer confidential data between the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20.

[0242] Therefore, by applying the authentication system 1 of the above embodiment to combination E, security can be improved.

[0243] Combination F includes communication units (14, 24) for each of the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 to communicate with each other, with the light-emitting device 10 having a light source 12 and the authentication device 20 having an imaging unit 22. In combination F, the devices targeted for security deactivation through authentication processing are the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20, and the light-emitting device 10 operates by wireless power supply from the authentication device 20.

[0244] In this case, for example, by bringing the authentication device 20 closer to the light-emitting device 10, power supply from the authentication device 20 to the light-emitting device 10 is disclosed, and communication between the authentication device 20 and the light-emitting device 10 is initiated. Under the control of the authentication device 20, the light source 12 of the light-emitting device 10 starts emitting authentication light L. The authentication device 20 performs authentication processing using a bio-image of the light transmitted through the palm H that has been irradiated with authentication light L. Then, if the authentication unit 28G of the authentication device 20 successfully authenticates the vein pattern through the authentication processing, it releases the security of the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20. With this security release, for example, data transfer between the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 becomes possible. In this case, at least one of the light-emitting device 10 and the authentication device 20 can be used as a dongle for managing important data such as licenses.

[0245] Therefore, by applying the authentication system 1 of the above embodiment to combination F, security can be improved.

[0246] Furthermore, the effects described herein are merely illustrative and not limiting, and other effects may also occur.

[0247] (Hardware configuration) Figure 18 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer 1000 that implements the functions of the light-emitting device 10, light-emitting device 10B, authentication device 20, and authentication device 20B according to the above embodiment and modified examples.

[0248] Computer 1000 has a CPU 1100, RAM 1200, ROM (Read Only Memory) 1300, HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 1400, a communication interface 1500, and an input / output interface 1600. The various parts of computer 1000 are connected by a bus 1050.

[0249] The CPU 1100 operates based on programs stored in the ROM 1300 or HDD 1400, and controls various parts. For example, the CPU 1100 loads the programs stored in the ROM 1300 or HDD 1400 into the RAM 1200 and executes processing corresponding to various programs.

[0250] ROM1300 stores boot programs such as the BIOS (Basic Input Output System) executed by CPU1100 when computer 1000 starts up, as well as programs that depend on the computer 1000's hardware.

[0251] The HDD1400 is a computer-readable recording medium that non-temporarily records programs executed by the CPU1100 and data used by such programs. Specifically, the HDD1400 is a recording medium that records the program according to this disclosure, which is an example of program data 1450.

[0252] The communication interface 1500 is an interface for the computer 1000 to connect to an external network 1550 (e.g., the Internet). For example, the CPU 1100 receives data from other devices or transmits data it generates to other devices via the communication interface 1500.

[0253] The input / output interface 1600 is an interface for connecting the input / output device 1650 and the computer 1000. For example, the CPU 1100 receives data from input devices such as a keyboard or mouse via the input / output interface 1600. The CPU 1100 also transmits data to output devices such as a display, speaker, or printer via the input / output interface 1600. The input / output interface 1600 may also function as a media interface for reading programs recorded on a predetermined recording medium (media). Examples of media include optical recording media such as DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs) and PDs (Phase Change Rewritable Disks), magneto-optical recording media such as MOs (Magneto-Optical Disks), tape media, magnetic recording media, or semiconductor memory.

[0254] For example, when the computer 1000 functions as an authentication device 20 according to the first embodiment, the CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 realizes functions such as the light source position adjustment unit 28A by executing an information processing program loaded on the RAM 1200. The HDD 1400 stores the information processing program according to this disclosure and data in the storage unit. The CPU 1100 reads and executes the program data 1450 from the HDD 1400, but as an alternative example, these programs may be obtained from other devices via an external network 1550.

[0255] Furthermore, this technology can also be configured as follows. (1) An authentication system comprising a light-emitting device and an authentication device, The light-emitting device is It is equipped with a light source that emits authentication light including at least near-infrared light, The authentication device is The photography department, An acquisition unit acquires a biological image from the imaging unit of light that has passed through the biological part irradiated with the authentication light, An authentication unit that performs authentication processing of vein patterns included in the aforementioned biological image, An authentication system equipped with the following features. (2) The aforementioned light source is Multiple types of authentication light with different light intensities are emitted, The authentication unit, The authentication process is performed on the vein patterns included in the biological image of the biological part that has been irradiated with multiple types of authentication light of different light intensities, and whose color difference from an external area other than the vein pattern included in the biological image is greater than or equal to a threshold. The authentication system described in (1) above. (3) The light-emitting device and the authentication device are connected in a way that allows them to communicate with each other. The authentication device is The system includes a light intensity adjustment unit that transmits a light intensity signal representing the light intensity of the authentication light to the light-emitting device, The aforementioned light source is The authentication light is emitted, whose light intensity is represented by the received light intensity signal. The aforementioned light intensity adjustment unit is A first light intensity signal, which is a light intensity signal of the amount of light at the time of capturing the biological image including the vein pattern, is stored, wherein the color difference between the vein pattern included in the biological image and the external region is greater than or equal to the threshold. Before acquiring the biological image, the first light intensity signal is transmitted to the light-emitting device. The authentication system described in (2) above. (4) The authentication device is Display unit and The system includes a biological position adjustment unit that displays a body part guide image on the display unit, representing the recommended position of the biological body part relative to the imaging unit. The authentication system described in any one of (1) to (3) above. (5) The aforementioned biological position adjustment unit is The display unit displays a body part guide image having a size and shape corresponding to at least one of the size of the body part and the distance between the imaging unit and the body part. The authentication system described in (4) above. (6) The authentication device is The system includes a reading unit that reads guidance information for guiding the position of the biological tissue relative to the imaging unit, The aforementioned biological position adjustment unit is The guidance information is displayed on the display unit. The authentication system described in (4) or (5) above. (7) The aforementioned biological position adjustment unit is A vibration drive unit that vibrates the authentication device generates vibrations representing the direction of the recommended position of the biological body part relative to the imaging unit. The authentication system described in any one of (4) to (6) above. (8) The aforementioned biological position adjustment unit is The zoom mechanism of the imaging unit is controlled to adjust the imaging range of the imaging unit relative to the biological tissue. The authentication system described in any one of (4) to (7) above. (9) The authentication device is The system includes a light source position adjustment unit that displays a light source guide image on the display unit, representing the recommended position for receiving the authentication light for the imaging unit. The authentication system described in any one of (4) to (8) above. (10) The authentication device is If the brightness of the authentication light captured by the imaging unit is outside a predetermined brightness range, the unit includes a pre-flash light intensity adjustment unit that transmits a light intensity signal to the light-emitting device that represents a different light intensity than the light intensity of the authentication light. The aforementioned biological position adjustment unit is If the brightness of the authentication light is within the brightness range, the part guidance image is displayed on the display unit. The authentication system described in any one of (4) to (9) above. (11) The light-emitting device is The system comprises a plurality of light sources with different irradiation positions for the authentication light, The authentication system described in any one of (1) to (10) above. (12) The light-emitting device includes a position driving unit that moves the position of the light source. The authentication system according to any one of (1) to (11). (13) The living body part is the palm of the human body. The authentication system according to any one of (1) to (12). (14) The authentication unit When the authentication of the vein pattern is successful by the authentication process, releases the security of at least one of the authentication device and the light-emitting device. The authentication system according to any one of (1) to (13). (15) The authentication device includes a power supply unit that supplies power to the light-emitting device. The light-emitting device operates during the period when it is supplied with power from the authentication device. The authentication system according to any one of (1) to (14). (16) A photographing unit, an acquisition unit that acquires a biological photographing image of light transmitted through a living body part irradiated with authentication light including at least near-infrared light from the photographing unit, an authentication unit that executes an authentication process for a vein pattern included in the biological photographing image, and an authentication device comprising the same. (17) An authentication method executed by an authentication system including a light-emitting device and an authentication device, the step of acquiring, from a photographing unit provided in the authentication device, a biological photographing image of light transmitted through a living body part irradiated with authentication light including at least near-infrared light irradiated from a light source provided in the light-emitting device; the step of executing an authentication process for a vein pattern included in the biological photographing image, <� and an authentication method including the same.

Explanation of Signs

[0256] 1. 1B Authentication System 10, 10B Light-emitting device 12 light source 15 Position drive unit 20, 20B Authentication device 22 Photography Department 23 Display section 25 Vibration drive unit 27 Power supply section 28A Light source position adjustment section 28B Auxiliary light intensity adjustment section 28C Reading Unit 28D Biological Positioning Unit 28E, 29E Acquisition Department 28F Light intensity adjustment section 28G, 29G Authentication Section

Claims

1. An authentication system comprising a light-emitting device and an authentication device, The light-emitting device is It is equipped with a light source that emits authentication light including at least near-infrared light, The authentication device is, The photography department, An acquisition unit acquires a biological image from the imaging unit of light that has passed through the biological part irradiated with the authentication light, An authentication unit that performs authentication processing of vein patterns included in the aforementioned biological image, Display unit and A biological position adjustment unit that displays a body part guide image on the display unit, which represents the recommended position of the biological body part relative to the imaging unit, A reading unit reads guidance information for guiding the position of the biological tissue relative to the imaging unit, Equipped with, The aforementioned biological position adjustment unit is The guidance information is displayed on the display unit. Authentication system.

2. An authentication system comprising a light-emitting device and an authentication device, The light-emitting device is It is equipped with a light source that emits authentication light including at least near-infrared light, The authentication device is, The photography department, An acquisition unit acquires a biological image from the imaging unit of light that has passed through the biological part irradiated with the authentication light, An authentication unit that performs authentication processing of vein patterns included in the aforementioned biological image, Display unit and A biological position adjustment unit that displays a body part guide image on the display unit, which represents the recommended position of the biological body part relative to the imaging unit, The system includes a preliminary light intensity adjustment unit that, when the brightness of the authentication light captured by the imaging unit is outside a predetermined brightness range, transmits a light intensity signal to the light-emitting device that represents a different light intensity than the light intensity of the authentication light. The aforementioned biological position adjustment unit is If the brightness of the authentication light is within the brightness range, the part guidance image is displayed on the display unit. Authentication system.

3. The aforementioned light source is Multiple types of authentication light with different light intensities are emitted, The authentication unit, The authentication process is performed on the vein patterns included in the biological image of the biological part that has been irradiated with multiple types of authentication light of different light intensities, and whose color difference from an external area other than the vein pattern included in the biological image is greater than or equal to a threshold. The authentication system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The light-emitting device and the authentication device are connected in a way that allows them to communicate with each other. The authentication device is, The system includes a light intensity adjustment unit that transmits a light intensity signal representing the light intensity of the authentication light to the light-emitting device, The aforementioned light source is The authentication light is emitted, whose light intensity is represented by the received light intensity signal. The aforementioned light intensity adjustment unit is A first light intensity signal, which is a light intensity signal of the amount of light at the time of capturing the biological image including the vein pattern, is stored, wherein the color difference between the vein pattern included in the biological image and the external region is greater than or equal to the threshold. Before acquiring the biological image, the first light intensity signal is transmitted to the light-emitting device. The authentication system according to claim 3.

5. The aforementioned biological position adjustment unit is The display unit displays a body part guide image having a size and shape corresponding to at least one of the size of the body part and the distance between the imaging unit and the body part. The authentication system according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The aforementioned biological position adjustment unit is A vibration drive unit that vibrates the authentication device generates vibrations representing the direction of the recommended position of the biological body part relative to the imaging unit. The authentication system according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The aforementioned biological position adjustment unit is The zoom mechanism of the imaging unit is controlled to adjust the imaging range of the imaging unit relative to the biological tissue. The authentication system according to claim 1 or 2.

8. The authentication device is, The system includes a light source position adjustment unit that displays a light source guide image on the display unit, representing the recommended position for receiving the authentication light for the imaging unit. The authentication system according to claim 1 or 2.

9. The light-emitting device is The system comprises a plurality of light sources with different irradiation positions for the authentication light, The authentication system according to claim 1 or 2.

10. The light-emitting device is The system includes a position drive unit for moving the position of the light source. The authentication system according to claim 1 or 2.

11. The aforementioned biological site is The palm of the human body, The authentication system according to claim 1 or 2.

12. The authentication unit, If the authentication of the vein pattern is successful through the aforementioned authentication process, To disable the security of at least one of the authentication device and the light-emitting device, The authentication system according to claim 1 or 2.

13. The authentication device is, It includes a power supply unit that supplies power to the aforementioned light-emitting device, The light-emitting device is It operates while power is supplied from the aforementioned authentication device. The authentication system according to claim 1 or 2.

14. The photography department, An acquisition unit acquires a biological image from the imaging unit of light transmitted through a biological part that has been irradiated with authentication light including at least near-infrared light, An authentication unit that performs authentication processing of vein patterns included in the aforementioned biological image, Display unit and A biological position adjustment unit that displays a body part guide image on the display unit, which represents the recommended position of the biological body part relative to the imaging unit, A reading unit reads guidance information for guiding the position of the biological tissue relative to the imaging unit, Equipped with, The aforementioned biological position adjustment unit is The guidance information is displayed on the display unit. Authentication device.

15. A camera unit, An acquisition unit acquires a biological image from the imaging unit of the biological part that has been illuminated with authentication light including at least near-infrared light emitted from a light source provided in the light-emitting device, and the light transmitted through the biological part. An authentication unit that performs authentication processing of vein patterns included in the aforementioned biological image, Display unit and A biological position adjustment unit that displays a body part guide image on the display unit, which represents the recommended position of the biological body part relative to the imaging unit, The system includes a preliminary light intensity adjustment unit that, when the brightness of the authentication light captured by the imaging unit is outside a predetermined brightness range, transmits a light intensity signal to the light-emitting device that represents a different light intensity than the light intensity of the authentication light, The aforementioned biological position adjustment unit is If the brightness of the authentication light is within the brightness range, the part guidance image is displayed on the display unit. Authentication device.

16. An authentication method performed in an authentication system comprising a light-emitting device and an authentication device, The steps include acquiring a biological image from an imaging unit provided in the authentication device of light transmitted through a biological part irradiated with authentication light including at least near-infrared light emitted from a light source provided in the light-emitting device, The steps include: performing authentication processing of the vein pattern contained in the aforementioned biological image; A step of reading guidance information for guiding the position of the biological site relative to the imaging unit, The steps include: displaying a body part guide image representing the recommended position of the body part relative to the imaging unit on a display unit provided in the authentication device; Includes, In the step of displaying the aforementioned part guidance image on the display unit, the guidance information is displayed on the display unit. Authentication method.

17. An authentication method performed in an authentication system comprising a light-emitting device and an authentication device, The steps include acquiring a biological image from an imaging unit provided in the authentication device of light transmitted through a biological part irradiated with authentication light including at least near-infrared light emitted from a light source provided in the light-emitting device, The steps include: performing authentication processing of the vein pattern contained in the aforementioned biological image; The steps include: displaying a body part guide image representing the recommended position of the body part relative to the imaging unit on a display unit provided in the authentication device; If the brightness of the authentication light captured by the imaging unit is outside a predetermined brightness range, the light intensity signal representing a different light intensity from that of the authentication light is transmitted to the light-emitting device. Includes, In the step of displaying the body part guidance image on the display unit, if the brightness of the authentication light is within the brightness range, the body part guidance image is displayed on the display unit. Authentication method.

Images