Interleaved Fingerprint Numeric Representation for Fast Database Search
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fingerprint matching technologies face inefficiencies due to the need for linear searches of large databases, which reduce speed and accuracy, especially when searching for similar or 'look-a-like' patterns, and are prone to variations caused by factors like pressure, distortion, and rotation.
Innovation Solution
A method that identifies feature points in a fingerprint image, generates properties based on these points, assigns a numeric representation by interleaving digits, and uses this representation as a search argument to efficiently search a database, allowing for faster identification of similar patterns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If linear search is used to search the entire database for fingerprint matching, then comprehensive matching can be achieved, but the search speed is significantly reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The database is divided into multiple partitions based on fingerprint properties (such as ridge count, pattern type, and other biometric features). Each partition contains fingerprints with similar characteristics. When searching, the system first identifies the partition containing the query fingerprint, then performs detailed matching only within that partition, avoiding linear search of the entire database while maintaining matching completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
Fingerprints are pre-processed and organized into partitions based on their key properties before the actual matching operation. This preliminary organization creates an indexed structure that enables rapid location of candidate fingerprints, eliminating the need for exhaustive linear search during the matching phase.
2Reliability
If manual intervention is used to classify fingerprints into main groups, then secure classification can be achieved, but the complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs fingerprint classification by extracting key properties (ridge count, pattern type, minutiae features) and using these properties to determine the appropriate partition. This self-service classification eliminates manual intervention while maintaining secure and accurate grouping based on biometric characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The classification system uses objective biometric parameters (ridge count, pattern type, minutiae coordinates) to automatically determine fingerprint groupings. By changing from subjective manual classification to parameter-based automatic classification, the system achieves both accuracy and efficiency without human intervention.
3Measurement precision
If search is performed for identical fingerprint patterns only, then precise matching can be achieved, but the ability to handle variations is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The matching process focuses on comparing local features and properties of fingerprints (such as ridge count in specific regions, local pattern characteristics, and minutiae features) rather than requiring identical global patterns. This allows the system to accommodate variations in pressure, distortion, and rotation while maintaining precise matching of essential biometric characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses parameter-based matching where fingerprints are compared based on key biometric parameters (ridge count, pattern type, minutiae features) rather than pixel-perfect image matching. This approach maintains precision by focusing on stable biometric parameters while being tolerant of variations in image quality, pressure, and orientation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for searching a database comprising data related to a plurality of fingerprints. Two or more feature points in an image of an unknown fingerprint are identified. A plurality of properties are generated. The plurality of properties are based on the two or more feature points. A number comprising a plurality of digits, e.g. binary digits, is assigned to each of the plurality of properties. In a subsequent step, a numeric representation of said fingerprint is generated based on the assigned numbers. The numeric representation is generated by interleaving the plurality of digits, such that the digits of the numeric representation are arranged in an interleaved or intertwined manner within the numeric representation. The numeric representation is used as a search argument when searching the database. The invention also relates to an apparatus and computer program product.