Infrared Vein Pattern Authentication for Ergonomic Workflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biometric authentication systems require awkward movements, such as tilting the eye or placing a palm on a sensor, which are not ergonomically compatible with natural user movements, leading to inefficiencies and increased risk of unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
A biometric authentication system that allows for ergonomic positioning of the human arm or hand near input devices, using infrared cameras to capture vein patterns from the wrist, palm, or fingers, combined with IC card readers and pattern recognition, enabling three-form authentication without disrupting user workflow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional biometric devices are used (retina scanner, palm sensor), then authentication security is improved, but user ergonomics and workflow efficiency deteriorate due to awkward movements required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical contact-based biometric sensors (palm sensors, retina scanners requiring head tilting) with an optical imaging system using infrared cameras to capture vein patterns. This substitution eliminates the need for awkward physical movements while maintaining authentication security through unique biological pattern recognition.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an infrared camera as an intermediary device that captures vein patterns optically without requiring direct contact or awkward positioning. This intermediary approach allows authentication to occur naturally during workflow tasks, bridging the gap between security requirements and user comfort.
2Reliability
If traditional biometric authentication systems are implemented, then security is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to disruption of user workflow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables authentication to occur naturally during normal workflow tasks without requiring users to stop or change their behavior. The system captures vein patterns automatically as users perform their tasks, making the authentication process self-integrated into the workflow rather than a separate disruptive step.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs authentication verification continuously or at predetermined intervals during task execution, rather than requiring a separate authentication step. This preliminary and ongoing verification maintains security while allowing users to work continuously without workflow disruption.
3Reliability
If multiple biometric verification methods are used, then authentication security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple authentication factors (vein pattern recognition, IC card verification, and task-based behavioral authentication) into a single integrated system. Rather than implementing separate complex devices for each method, the invention merges these verification layers into one unified authentication framework that works together seamlessly.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure and efficient authentication by minimizing additional movement, reducing ergonomic inefficiencies, and enhancing security through multi-modal biometric verification.
Implementation Method 1
using infrared cameras to capture vein patterns from the wrist, palm, or fingers
Data Source
AI summary
A system and methods for authenticating a user for access to a system input terminal that includes an infrared imager, a user input terminal, and a processing section including a plurality of processing instructions operable to perform image capture for wrist areas of a user in proximity to an input terminal or other structures requiring authentication and comparison to determine access or deny access. An aspect of an embodiment of the invention permits initial and frequent authentication that reduces or eliminates user action to perform such authentication. Also provided are user interfaces, and additional authentication sections operable with the infrared imager. Alternative embodiments of the invention include a mobile embodiment as well as an embodiment-including a sensor positioned with respect to a user in an operational position where the user is performing a task in relation to an input terminal or structure requiring authentication (e.g. a keyboard).