US 6,532,298 B1 · Portable authentication device and method using iris patterns

Abstract

A compact, handheld imaging apparatus which can be used to capture high-quality iris images for identification of a person. The handheld iris imager is non-invasive and non-contacting and comprises a camera, a cold mirror, a lens, and an illuminator. The imager has sensors and indicators which assist a user in aligning and focusing the device. The imager also automatically captures the image when proper positioning is achieved. A template of the image is then transmitted to a receiver in a vehicle or other asset and compared to a database of previously stored templates of images to identify the person. The imager is part of a security module to protect access to an asset such as a vehicle or residence. The vehicle or residence cannot be unlocked and used unless a user has been identified and authorized by the imager and a controller system.

Claims12

Dependent claims

A system for providing access to a vehicle or other asset, comprising:

an imager comprising:
iris acquisition means having a front surface for obtaining an image of an iris of an eye;
a lens having an image plane disposed in front of the front surface of the iris acquisition means;
a mirror disposed on a side of the lens opposite the iris acquisition means;
an illuminator disposed along a side of the mirror;
a first memory for storing an iris image obtained by the iris acquisition means;
a processor for extracting a template from the stored iris image;
and
a communications interface for transmitting the template to the controller system;
and
a controller system comprising:
communications interface for receiving the template from the imager;
a second memory for storing at least one template of at least one image of an iris of at least one person's eye;
a processor for comparing the received template with the at least one template in the second memory to identify the person;
and
a lock interface coupled to the processor for receiving a command from the processor responsive to the results of the comparison.

13 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Portable authentication device and method using iris patterns

Life of this patent

Portable authentication device and method using iris patterns

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims12