Smartwatch Facial Authentication Using 3D Geometric Modeling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for securing watch functions, such as PIN code entry, are easily observable and burdensome for users, necessitating a more robust and user-friendly authentication solution.
Innovation Solution
A facial authentication method using a smartwatch that involves detection of a triggering gesture, capture of face images with visible and infrared light, generation of a three-dimensional face model, and comparison to a reference model for identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If PIN code entry is used for authentication, then access security is provided, but the method is easily observable by third parties and requires memorization by the wearer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/digital PIN code entry system with a biological recognition system using facial geometry. The optical sensor captures images of the wearer's face, and the processing unit analyzes geometric characteristics to authenticate identity, eliminating the need for memorizable codes and reducing observability by third parties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the wearer's facial geometry for authentication purposes. Instead of requiring the wearer to remember a code, the system captures and stores geometric data from the wearer's face, creating a unique identifier that can be verified without direct observation of the wearer's actions.
2Reliability
If PIN code entry is used for authentication, then access security is provided, but the method requires memorization by the wearer which can be off-putting
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs authentication automatically by capturing and analyzing the wearer's facial geometry without requiring active participation from the wearer in terms of memorization or code entry. The facial features themselves serve as the authentication mechanism, eliminating the burden of memorization.
3Reliability
If facial authentication with multiple images and 3D modeling is implemented, then authentication robustness is improved, but device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The authentication process is divided into distinct sequential steps: triggering condition detection, image capture, geometric data acquisition, 3D model generation, and identification index calculation. This segmentation allows the complex authentication process to be managed through modular functions, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining robustness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from 2D image analysis to 3D geometric modeling to enhance authentication robustness. By capturing multiple images from different angles and generating a three-dimensional model of the wearer's face, the system adds a dimensional layer of security that makes spoofing more difficult while the structured approach manages complexity.
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
Provides strong and robust authentication that is easy to implement, eliminating the need for memorizing secret codes and reducing the risk of observation by third parties.
Implementation Method 1
capture of at least one sequence of images relative to the face of the wearer pivoting from one direction to another in front of the optical sensor
Implementation Method 2
acquisition of at least two images for each identical portion of the face respectively with two different light exposures: one exposure to visible light and one exposure to infrared light
Data Source
AI summary
A method for facial authentication of a wearer of a watch includes: initiating an authentication process including detecting at least one triggering movement/gesture carried out by the wearer; capturing at least one sequence of images relative to the face of the wearer pivoting from one direction to another in front of the optical sensor; acquiring surface geometric data of the face associated with each image of at least one sequence; generating a three-dimensional model of the face of the wearer from at least one captured sequence of images and from the acquired geometric data; determining an identification index generated based on identification data relative to a plurality of features characteristic of the face of the wearer of the watch detected on the basis of the three-dimensional model, and identifying the wearer if the identification index is greater than a reference identification index.