Self-Service Terminal Facial Recognition for Unauthorized-Access Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Security vulnerabilities at self-service terminals, such as automated teller machines, including theft, unauthorized access, and covert observation of PIN entry, are not adequately addressed by existing technologies.

Innovation Solution

A self-service terminal equipped with an imaging device and processor for facial recognition, which activates or maintains a standby state based on facial recognition criteria, including detection of hidden faces and biometric features, to prevent unauthorized use and alert users to potential threats.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If facial recognition technology is implemented at self-service terminals, then security against unauthorized access and theft is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The imaging device serves multiple functions: capturing images for facial recognition, detecting hidden faces, and providing security monitoring. The processor performs multiple tasks including facial recognition, biometric feature extraction, and security control logic execution. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated security components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical security measures (such as physical barriers, manual monitoring, or card readers with physical locks) with an optical/electronic facial recognition system. The imaging device captures facial images and the processor analyzes biometric features to authenticate users and detect security violations, eliminating the need for complex mechanical security mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If facial recognition and image processing are performed continuously, then security monitoring is improved, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity monitoringVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs facial recognition and image analysis periodically rather than continuously. The processor is configured to analyze images at specific trigger events such as when a user approaches the terminal, when the terminal is activated, or at predetermined time intervals. This periodic processing reduces energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring while maintaining effective security coverage.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary image capture and basic facial detection before initiating full facial recognition analysis. The processor first determines whether an image contains a face and extracts basic biometric features before conducting comprehensive security assessments. This staged approach reduces computational energy consumption by performing only necessary analysis when conditions require it.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12374155B2Self-service terminal and method for providing security at a self-service terminal
Publication Date: 2025.07.29 DIEBOLD NIXDORF SYST GMBH
  • US12374155B2 patent drawing
  • US12374155B2 patent drawing
  • US12374155B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A self-service terminal and a method for providing security at a self-service terminal are disclosed, wherein the self-service terminal comprises: an imaging device, configured for providing at least one digital image; at least one processor, configured for applying a facial recognition method to the at least one digital image; and for controlling the self-service terminal using a facial recognition criterion depending on the result of the facial recognition method.