Solid State Imaging Device Iris Authentication Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Iris authentication systems face challenges in quickly setting optimal imaging conditions such as exposure and shutter speed for efficient iris recognition, leading to delays in the authentication process.

Innovation Solution

A solid state imaging device with a pixel array and an iris authenticator that extracts iris information through photoelectric conversion, allowing for real-time control of imaging conditions like exposure and focus to optimize image capture for iris authentication.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Speed

If traditional iris authentication systems use separate imaging devices and external processors, then device complexity is reduced, but the speed of setting optimal imaging conditions deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of setting imaging conditionsVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the imaging function (pixel array) and the iris authentication function (iris authenticator) into a single integrated device. The iris authenticator is built-in within the imaging device, allowing real-time extraction of iris information and immediate feedback for adjusting imaging conditions. This integration eliminates communication delays between separate devices and enables rapid iterative optimization of exposure and focus settings.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where the iris authenticator extracts iris information from captured images and provides feedback to the imaging condition controller. Based on this feedback, the controller automatically adjusts imaging conditions (exposure time, aperture, focus) to optimize image quality for iris authentication. This closed-loop control enables rapid convergence to optimal settings without manual intervention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Measurement precision

If multiple iterations of image capture and analysis are performed to optimize imaging conditions, then accuracy of iris authentication is improved, but time required for authentication increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccuracy of iris authenticationVSAvoidtime required for authentication
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by initially setting imaging conditions based on pre-stored reference values or typical parameters for iris authentication. This allows the system to immediately capture images and begin authentication processing without waiting for iterative optimization, thereby reducing initial authentication time while maintaining sufficient accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The imaging and authentication process operates continuously without interruption. While images are being captured and processed, the system continuously adjusts imaging conditions based on real-time feedback from the iris authenticator. This continuous operation ensures that authentication proceeds without idle time, and optimal conditions are achieved during the authentication process itself rather than in separate preparation phases.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

3Productivity

If imaging conditions are manually adjusted to optimize iris capture, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity of authentication process decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproductivity of authentication processVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs self-service by automatically adjusting its own imaging conditions without requiring manual intervention. The imaging condition controller monitors the authentication process and autonomously modifies exposure, focus, and other parameters based on real-time feedback from the iris authenticator. This eliminates the need for operators to manually tweak settings while maintaining high authentication productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes imaging parameters (exposure time, aperture size, focus distance, illumination intensity) based on real-time conditions and feedback from the iris authentication process. These parameter adjustments are automatically calculated and applied by the imaging condition controller, enabling the system to adapt to varying lighting conditions, subject distances, and iris characteristics without manual input.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 rapid and accurate setting of imaging conditions, enhancing the speed and accuracy of iris authentication processes by integrating the iris authenticator and imaging condition controller within the device.

Implementation Method 1

image data obtained from the pixel array through photoelectric conversion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric conversion: Photoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11317044B2Solid state imaging device and method of controlling solid state imaging device
Publication Date: 2022.04.26 SONY SEMICON SOLUTIONS CORP
  • US11317044B2 patent drawing
  • US11317044B2 patent drawing
  • US11317044B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Provided is a solid state imaging device including: a pixel array in which pixels are disposed on a matrix; an iris authenticator that extracts iris information to be used in an iris authentication process, from image data obtained from the pixel array through photoelectric conversion; and an imaging condition controller that performs control to set an imaging condition in obtaining the image data for the iris authentication process, by using information obtained in a process of extracting the iris information.