Abstract
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a relatively new imaging technology which can produce high resolution images of three-dimensional structures. OCT has been mainly used for medical applications such as for ophthalmology and dermatology. In this study we demonstrate its capability in providing much more reliable biometry identification of fingerprints than conventional methods. We prove that OCT can serve secure control of genuine fingerprints as it can detect if extra layers are placed above the finger. This can prevent with a high probability, intruders to a secure area trying to foul standard systems based on imaging the finger surface. En-Face OCT method is employed and recommended for its capability of providing not only the axial succession of layers in depth, but the en-face image that allows the traditional pattern identification. Another reason for using such OCT technology is that it is compatible with dynamic focus and therefore can provide enhanced transversal resolution and sensitivity. Two En-Face OCT systems are used to evaluate the need for high resolution and conclusions are drawn in terms of the most potential commercial route to ex- ploitation.
Highlights
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an advanced high resolution, non-invasive imaging tool to image the internal structure of skin
We prove that OCT can serve secure control of genuine fingerprints as it can detect if extra layers are placed above the finger
What we show here is that OCT can explore the fingerprint in depth and this may be an extra feature not utilised so far in security
Summary
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an advanced high resolution, non-invasive imaging tool to image the internal structure of skin. Mation can be provided such as liveness of the finger or the stress of the subject The latter two possibilities are not demonstrated here, but they could be implemented based on the recent progress of OCT technology, and these will be discussed in the Conclusions. The images produced with conventional cameras represent a 2D map of the object surface and cannot make any difference between a genuine finger and a dummy. In this paper we demonstrate that OCT is capable of producing detailed high resolution cross sections of unusual layer structures of faked fingerprints. In this way, OCT can disclose if any additional material has been added to the skin.
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