Overhead Biometric Acquisition System for Continuous Walk-Through Identity Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biometric acquisition systems face inefficiencies due to the need for subjects to change direction to avoid cameras and illuminators, frequent replacement of illuminators, and inability to integrate non-biometric devices, leading to reduced throughput and increased irradiation of non-subjects.
Innovation Solution
A system with cameras and infrared illuminators positioned above, next to, or below the subject's path, allowing for biometric data acquisition while walking without changing direction, using strobed or scanned illumination to improve signal-to-noise ratio and reduce illuminator stress, and integrating with non-biometric devices for enhanced security and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If cameras and illuminators are positioned directly in front of the user, then biometric data can be acquired, but the user must stop or change direction to avoid striking the cameras and illuminators
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions cameras and illuminators from the traditional front-facing arrangement to overhead positions above the user's path. This spatial reconfiguration allows biometric data acquisition while maintaining user movement freedom, as users walk underneath the devices without needing to stop or change direction.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of positioning detection devices in front of the user and requiring the user to stop, the patent inverts the arrangement by placing cameras and illuminators overhead, allowing users to continue moving forward while being scanned from above.
2Measurement precision
If illumination is continually turned on at normal levels, then biometric data can be acquired, but the illuminator must be replaced at frequent intervals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements strobed illumination that activates periodically only when a subject is detected in the scanning zone. This periodic operation mode maintains sufficient illumination for biometric data acquisition while dramatically reducing overall illuminator usage and extending component lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts illumination parameters by switching between off-state and high-intensity strobed states based on subject presence. This parameter modulation ensures adequate lighting for data capture only when needed, reducing cumulative stress on the illuminator.
3Reliability
If traditional walk through systems are used, then identity verification can be performed, but throughput is reduced due to users needing to stop or change direction
Solution Approach 1:
By relocating cameras and illuminators to overhead positions, the system creates a through-path configuration where users walk continuously underneath the devices. This maintains reliable biometric verification while eliminating the need for users to stop, thereby increasing throughput.
Solution Approach 2:
The overhead positioning enables continuous user movement through the system without interruptions. Users maintain their walking motion throughout the verification process, ensuring continuous operation and higher productivity while maintaining verification reliability.
4Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are used to acquire data through spectral filters at the same time, then comprehensive biometric data can be collected, but system efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs sequential activation of multiple sensors with different spectral filters rather than simultaneous operation. Each sensor is activated in sequence during the user's passage, reducing computational overhead and processing complexity while still capturing comprehensive biometric data across multiple spectral bands.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor activation sequence is dynamically adjusted based on user detection and passage timing. This dynamic coordination optimizes the timing of each sensor's operation to capture necessary data while minimizing redundant processing and improving overall system efficiency.
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
This configuration significantly increases throughput by allowing subjects to pass through without stopping, extends illuminator lifespan, and effectively integrates biometric and non-biometric systems for improved detection and identification.
Implementation Method 1
one or more infrared illuminators which are strobed or scanned
Implementation Method 2
the illuminators are positioned above, next to, or below the swept volume... which are strobed or scanned
Data Source
AI summary
A method of determining the identity of a subject while the subject is walking or being transported in an essentially straight direction is disclosed, the two dimensional profile of the subject walking or being transported along forming a three dimensional swept volume, without requiring the subject to change direction to avoid any part of the system, comprising acquiring data related to one or more biometrics of the subject with the camera(s), processing the acquired biometrics data, and determining if the acquired biometric data match corresponding biometric data stored in the system, positioning camera(s) and strobed or scanned infrared illuminator(s) above, next to, or below the swept volume. A system for carrying out the method is also disclosed.