Vein Pattern Extraction from Color Images Using Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies are unable to effectively extract vein patterns from color images for personal identification, as vein patterns are hidden under the skin and not visible in conventional images, and existing methods are not applicable to forensic identification using consumer camera images.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that form a counterpart of the color image using a functional relationship obtained from optimization, generating an orientation map to determine whether pixels represent veins, and using a classifier to extract vein patterns from color images for personal identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If infrared or laser imaging technologies are used to obtain vein patterns, then vein patterns can be clearly visualized, but these technologies are not applicable to forensic identification from color images taken by consumer cameras
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a synthesized version of the color image that replicates the appearance of infrared or laser images. By applying a functional relationship learned from optimization, the system generates a counterpart image that contains enhanced vein pattern information, allowing forensic identification using conventional color camera data without requiring specialized infrared or laser imaging equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the physical optical systems (infrared cameras, laser imagers) with a computational approach. Instead of using specialized hardware to capture vein patterns, the system uses image processing algorithms that analyze color images and synthesize enhanced versions revealing vein patterns through mathematical transformations and optimization techniques
2Reliability
If vein patterns are extracted from color images, then personal identification can be performed, but vein patterns are hidden under the skin and almost invisible in conventional images
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational model that bridges the gap between conventional color images and vein pattern detection. The functional relationship and optimization process act as mediators that transform the invisible vein information encoded in color images into a visible, extractable pattern, enabling reliable detection without direct optical access to the veins
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameters of the image through mathematical transformations and optimization processes. By adjusting and reinterpreting the color image data through learned functional relationships, the system transforms the hidden vein information into an enhanced representation where vein patterns become detectable and measurable for identification purposes
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a method of determining vein patterns from a color image for personal identification, the method comprising forming a counterpart of the color image by applying a functional relationship obtained from optimization on the color image, wherein the counterpart of the color image comprises the vein patterns. An apparatus for determining vein patterns from a color image is also disclosed.