Object Identification via Fingerprint Feature Vectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing object identification and inventory management systems face challenges with unique marking systems, as serial numbers can become obscured or lost, especially for valuable items like artwork, gemstones, and collector-grade coins, leading to ineffective authentication and tracking.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing high-resolution imaging to capture and process 'fingerprint' features of objects, generating feature vectors that are compared to authenticate and track objects, even when they have undergone changes due to wear and tear, ensuring secure and reliable identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If serial numbers are engraved or printed on objects for identification, then object tracking and inventory management are enabled, but the serial numbers may become obscured or lost due to physical damage or tag loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy (photograph) of the object's identifying features and stores it in a database. This digital replica serves as a backup identification method that doesn't depend on the physical visibility of serial numbers or tags on the actual object.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a database as an intermediary between the object and its identification. Instead of directly reading serial numbers from the object, the system uses stored photographs and digital records as a mediator to verify object identity, eliminating the need for physical serial number visibility.
2Reliability
If identifying information is physically attached to valuable objects like artwork and gemstones, then authentication is enabled, but the object's value may be damaged or destroyed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital photograph and data record of the object's identifying features instead of physically marking the object. This digital copy contains all necessary authentication information without requiring any physical alteration to the valuable object itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical marking methods (engraving, tagging, labeling) with an optical/digital system. High-resolution photography and digital image processing substitute for physical serial number application, eliminating the need to attach anything to the object.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If identifying information is stored separately from the object, then object integrity is preserved, but the entire identification process must be repeated if the object is lost and recovered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs identification data collection (photographing and feature extraction) in advance and stores it in a database before the object is ever lost. When the object is recovered, this pre-stored data is immediately available for rapid verification without needing to repeat the entire identification process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a feedback loop where the stored digital identification data continuously validates object identity. When an object is recovered or presented, the system compares current features against the stored baseline, providing immediate authentication feedback without requiring complete re-identification.
Data Source
AI summary
A method/apparatus for identifying an object based on a pattern of structural features located in a region of interest wherein the pattern of features comprises at least one fingerprint feature. The region may be recognized and used to identify the object. A first feature vector may be extracted from a first image of the pattern and may be mapped to an object identifier. To authenticate the object, a second feature vector may be extracted from a second image taken of the same region later in time than the first image. The two feature vectors may be compared and differences between one or more feature vector values determined. A match correlation value may be calculated based on the difference(s). The differences may be dampened if associated with expected wear and tear. Thus the impact on the match correlation value of such differences may be reduced. The differences may be enhanced if associated with changes that are not explainable as wear and tear. Thus the impact on the match correlation value of such differences may be increased.