Optical recognition of fingerprints

Abstract

Fingerprint recognition is employed using an optical pattern recognition setup involving correlation filters. A Vander Lugt correlation system is constructed for filter recording and pattern recognition processes. Correlation peaks observed at the output plane gives an indication on the presence of the input fingerprint pattern that matches the pattern stored in the filter. The intensity of the correlation peak describing the degree of correlation is quantified by the integrated optical density (IOD) value. Correlation is performed for the identification and discrimination of fingerprints with different types and patterns. The effect on the correlation intensity is also studied for the recognized fingerprint pattern with partial fingerprint information. The experimental results were found to agree with the theoretical predictions. The correlation system also exhibited invariance to translation but demonstrates a high sensitivity for rotational variation.