Piezoelectric Array for 3D Subcutaneous Biometric Imaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biometric sensing devices for fingerprint identification lack the capability to provide three-dimensional imaging of subcutaneous tissue structures, such as bone and vasculature, which is essential for enhanced biometric identification and medical applications, and do not efficiently determine proof of life parameters like heart rate and blood flow.
Innovation Solution
A biometric sensing device equipped with a piezoelectric array that operates in both fingerprint imaging and three-dimensional ultrasound imaging modes, using pitch/catch ultrasonic techniques to capture images of subcutaneous structures, allowing for the acquisition of anatomical and morphological biometrics, including elastic properties and vital parameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a piezoelectric array operates only in fingerprint imaging mode, then the device structure remains simple, but the capability to image subcutaneous tissue structures is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The piezoelectric array is designed to perform multiple imaging functions by operating in different modes. The same physical array can capture both fingerprint images (surface level) and three-dimensional ultrasound images of subcutaneous structures (deeper tissue levels) by adjusting operational parameters, eliminating the need for separate imaging devices
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from two-dimensional fingerprint imaging to three-dimensional ultrasound imaging of subcutaneous structures by utilizing the depth capability of ultrasound waves. This dimensional expansion allows the same piezoelectric array to capture spatial information at multiple depth levels within the finger tissue
2Measurement precision
If a piezoelectric array operates in echo mode only, then the device complexity remains low, but the measurement precision of subcutaneous structures is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system improves measurement precision by changing operational parameters of the piezoelectric array. By adjusting the frequency, pulse duration, and signal processing methods between echo mode and Doppler-shift mode, the system can optimize imaging quality for different subcutaneous structures while using the same hardware platform
3Measurement precision
If multiple biometric data types are captured simultaneously, then the identification accuracy improves, but the data processing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary organization and classification of multiple biometric data types (fingerprint images, ultrasound images, vital parameters) as they are captured. By structuring the data acquisition and initial processing in advance, the system reduces the complexity of subsequent data integration and analysis, enabling efficient multi-parameter biometric identification
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 simultaneous and real-time capture of multiple biometric data types from a single finger application, improving identification accuracy and providing vital parameters to verify the authenticity and liveliness of the biometric sample.
Implementation Method 1
When this piezoelectric material is formed into a pillar 1/10th the diameter of a human hair, it has a unique set of properties that enable it to mechanically oscillate when an electric field is applied
Implementation Method 2
create an electrical voltage when mechanically vibrated
Implementation Method 3
If a fingerprint ridge is directly above the pillar, much of the ultrasonic energy is absorbed by the skin and the signal impedance of the pillar is very high
Implementation Method 4
a Doppler-shift mode to detect blood flow velocity and blood flow patterns
Data Source
AI summary
A system, apparatus and method for obtaining biometric data from characteristics of a fingerprint and obtaining characteristics of subcutaneous structures that are embedded within finger tissue and located in relation to the fingerprint.