Real-time recognition using novel infrared illumination

Abstract

An image recognition system is described that can distinguish between a number of different human faces and is capable of processing a field of view covering a typical room in ~ 2 s. The system uses a novel infrared illumination system which overcomes the variable effects of ambient illumination, allowing highly reliable recognition. The system is based on a neural network known as WISARD. Images obtained from the imaging system, and typical face recognition results are presented. The results clearly demonstrate the ability of the system to distinguish between individual faces, and between faces and arbitrary background scenes.