Background Art [0002] Biometrics is a science involving the analysis of biological characteristics. Biometric imaging captures a measurable characteristic of a human being for identity and other related purposes. Print capture and recognition is an important biometric technology. Law enforcement, banking, voting, and other industries increasingly rely upon prints as a biometric to store, recognize or verify identity. Generally, a biometric is a measurable, physical characteristic or personal behavior trait used to recognize the identity, or verify the claimed identity, of a person who has a biometric reference template (e. g. , data that represents a biometric measurement) on file.

[0003] Biometric imaging systems may include, but are not limited to, print imaging systems. Print imaging systems can capture images of prints on thumbs, fingers, palms, toes, feet, and/or hands. Such print imaging systems are also referred to as scanners or live scanners. Conventional live scanners use light to detect an image of a fingerprint and/or palm print. For example, one or more fingers or a palm are placed on a platen. An illumination source illuminates the underside of the platen. An image representative of valleys, ridges, or other characteristics of a fingerprint or a palm print is then detected by an image sensor, such as a solid-state camera.

[0004] One problem with conventional palm live scanner systems is that a palm naturally curves, while a typical platen has a flat planar surface upon which a palm is placed. Thus, there is a chance that not all portions of the palm print will be imaged during scanning. If this occurs, biometric information can be lost.

[0005] Also, in many live scanners, increasing the surface area of a flat platen requires a significant increase in the size of a camera being used to detect images on the platen. Large area cameras or sets of cameras can dramatically increase cost and complexity. As a result, the size of the surface area of a flat platen is limited in many live scanners to a size of an average palm or smaller.

[0006] Therefore, what is needed is a scanning optical device configured to scan light from platen surface area onto a detection device that is substantially smaller than a platen surface area.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0007] An embodiment of the present invention provides a system for capturing biometric data including a non-planar prism configured to be illuminated by a light source and a scanning optical system configured to capture image data of a portion of a person interacting with the non-planar prism.

[0008] Another embodiment of the present invention provides a system for capturing biometric data including a non-planar prism. The non-planar prism is configured to totally internally reflect light, such that the totally internally reflected light exits the non-planar portion and is received by an image capturing system. The image capturing system receives the totally internally reflected light and generates image data of a person interacting with the prism.

[0009] In one aspect of the present invention, the non planar prism includes a curved portion and a planar portion. The curved portion is configured to receive a biometric object (e. g. , one or more hands) of the person on a first surface and to totally internally reflect light beams from the light source toward a second surface of the planar portion. The planar portion is coupled at an angle to the curved portion. The totally internally reflected light exits through the planar portion, after which it is received by the scanning optical system.

[0010] In another aspect of the present invention a surface area of the curved portion is substantially larger than a surface area of the planar portion.

[0011] A further embodiment of the present invention provides a prism used in a system configured to capture image data representative of biometric data.

The prism includes a non-planar first portion that is symmetrical about an axis of symmetry of the prism and is configured to receive a portion of a body of a user, a substantially planar second portion coupled an angle with respect to the non-planar first portion, and a cylindrical opening running from the first portion to the second portion along the axis of symmetry.

[00121 A still further embodiment of the present invention provides a prism configured to be used in a system for capturing image data representative of biometric data. The prism includes an input portion, a non-planar platen portion, and an exit portion. The input portion is configured to receive light from a light source. The non-planar platen portion is symmetrical about an axis of symmetry of the prism and is configured to receive a portion of a body of a user on a first surface and to totally internally reflect the light from the light source off a second surface. The exit portion is configured to pass the light that has been totally internally reflected from the second surface of the platen portion onto a detector, which is configured to perform the capturing of the image data.

[0013] A still further embodiment of the present invention provides a prism configured to be used in a system for capturing image data representative of biometric data. The prism includes non-planar first and second portions. The first portion is symmetrical about an axis of symmetry of the prism and is configured to receive a portion of a body of a user on a first surface and to totally internally reflect illumination through a second surface. The second portion is also symmetrical about the axis of symmetry of the prism and is coupled to the first portion. The second portion is configured to pass light that has been totally internally reflected from the second surface of the first portion onto a detector that is configured to perform the capturing of the image data.

[0014] A still further embodiment of the present invention provides a scanning optical device used in a system configured to capture image data representing biometric data. The scanning optical device includes an optical device, device for rotating, and a detection device. The optical device directs light that has totally internally reflected from an inside surface of a non-planar prism in the system onto the detection device. The rotating device rotates at least one of the optical device and the detecting device while the light is being detected.

[0015] In one aspect of the present invention, the rotating device can be a motor, belt, and pulley system. In another aspect of the present invention, the rotating device can be a prism, such as a Dove or Pachan prism.

[0016] An advantage of the above embodiments can be through the use of the curved surface of the non-planar prism, which is shaped to better conform to a palm of a user's hand, and the scanning imaging system the system can capture complete hand and palm prints, writer's palm prints, writer's palm, prints in combination with fingertips, and other prints for one or two hands, as is discussed is detail below.

[0017] Another advantage of the above embodiments can be that all aspects of print (e. g. , a whole hand print or a two-hand print, a palm print, a writer's palm print, a writer's palm print in combination with fingertips, etc.) associated with one or more hands of a user can be captured based on the non- planar first portion.

[0018] A still further advantage of the above embodiments can be that using the rotating device allows a detection device having a smaller surface area than the inside surface of the non-planar prism to detect all light that has been totally internally reflected from the inside surface of the non-planar prism.

Also, through the use of the curved surface of the non-planar prism, which is shaped to better conform to a palm of a user's hand, and the rotating device the system can complete hand and palm prints, writer's palm prints, writer's palm prints in combination with fingerprints, and other prints for one or two hands, as is discussed in detail below.

[0019] Further embodiments, features, and advantages of the present inventions, as well as the structure and operation of the various embodiments of the present invention, are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS/FIGURES [0020] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form a part of the specification, illustrate the present invention and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles of the invention and to enable a person skilled in the pertinent art to make and use the invention.

[0021] FIG. 1 shows a system for capturing biometric data according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] FIG. 2 shows a local section of the system in FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0023] FIG. 3 shows an indicator section of the system in FIGS. 1 and 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0024] FIGS. 4,5, 6, and 7 show an encoder section of the system in FIGS. 1 and 2 according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 8 shows a prism and optical system in the system of FIGS. 1 and 2 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] FIG. 9 shows a prism and air treatment system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [0027] FIGS. 10-11 illustrate how a person places one or both hands, respectively, on a prism according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] FIGS. 12-14 show various light source positions for illuminating a prism according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0029] FIG. 15 shows image pixel layout for different sections of a non-planar prism according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] FIGS. 16-17 show various optical rotating devices that rotate an image captured at a prism according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0031] FIGS. 18-20 show various parts of a hand used during image and biometric analysis according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0032] FIG. 21 shows an image of a print pattern of writer's palms and fingertips captured according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 22 show an image of a print pattern of left and right hand prints taken during different scans captured according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] FIGS. 23-27 show various views of a prism according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIGS. 28-30 show various views of image sectional areas on a prism according to various embodiments of the present invention.

[0036] FIGS. 31-32 show various prisms according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0037] FIG. 33 shows a material filled prism according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 34 shows an exemplary image including hand print data and calibration data according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] The present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference numbers can indicate identical or functionally similar elements. Additionally, the left-most digit (s) of a reference number may identify the drawing in which the reference number first appears.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0040] Embodiments of the present invention provide a system including a non-planar prism and a scanning imaging system configured to locate and/or scan all or part of a hand print for one or more hands positioned on a curved portion of the non-planar prism. The curved portion can be symmetrical about an axis of symmetry of the non-planar prism. Typically, a print pattern on palm pocket, writer's palm, or the like, is hard to capture on a flat surface. In contrast, the non-planar prism of the present invention provides a form so that a print pattern on the palm pocket, writer's palm, or the like, can be captured.

Print patterns or different parts of a hand (e. g. , fingertips and a writer's palm) are also more easily captured using the non-planar prism. Hand and/or finger characteristic data can also be captured, for example hand geometry (e. g., finger lengths and spacing between fingers).

[0041] The scanning imaging system can be stationary or it can be rotated along an arcuate scan path about a centerline axis of the optical element.

During the rotation, an image of the full hand print (including thenar, hypothenar, inter digital, palm heel, palm pocket, and fingertips) and/or full palm and finger prints can be captured by the measuring portion. This combination of a curved portion on the non-planar prism (e. g. , a conical prism) and arcuate scan path provides a relative large platen surface area upon which to place a print pattern without requiring a correspondingly large area camera or set of cameras.

[0042] The optical element can also include an alignment device (e. g. , a hand- locating feature) than can be used to position a hand based on a point between a thumb and an index finger, between any other two fingers, a full hand on one side of the alignment device, both hands with each hand on either side of the alignment device, or to capture writer's palm and/or writer's palm and fingertip images.

[0043] The optical element can also include a calibration area (e. g. , target) that can be used to check calibration or perform calibration of the measuring device during each scan and/or be captured with the image for future quality control (e. g. , calibration of a device displaying the image) of the captured image.

[0044] A communications system might be used to transmit captured biometric data through an interface to a remote processing system.

Terminology [0045] To more clearly delineate the present invention, an effort is made throughout the specification to adhere to the following term definitions consistently.

[0046] The term"finger"refers to any digit on a hand including, but not limited to, a thumb, an index finger, middle finger, ring finger, or a pinky finger.

[0047] The term"print"can be any type of print including, but not limited to, a print of all or part of one or more fingers, palms, toes, foot, hand, etc. A print can also be a rolled print, a flat print, or a slap print.

[0048] The term"hand print, "as used herein according to the present invention, can include any region on a hand having a print pattern, including thenar and hypothenar regions of the palm, interdigital regions, palm heel, palm pocket, writer's palm, and/or fingertips.

[0049] The term"biometric data"or"biometric information"throughout the specification can be data representative of a biometric, a digital or other image of a biometric (e. g. , raw image data, a bitmap, binary, or other file), extracted digital or other information relating to the biometric (such as minutiae), etc.

[0050] The term"live scan"refers to a capture of any type of print image made by a print scanner. A platen can be movable or stationary depending upon the particular type of scanner and the type of print being captured by the scanner. <BR> <BR> <P>[0051] The terms"biometric imaging system,""scanner,""live scanner, "<BR> "live print scanner, ""fingerprint scanner, "and"print scanner"are used interchangeably, and refer to any type of scanner which can obtain an image of a print pattern on all or part of one or more fingers, palms, toes, feet, hands, etc. in a live scan. The obtained images can be combined in any format including, but not limited to, an FBI, state, or international tenprint format.

[0052] The terms"finger characteristic information"and"hand characteristics information"are used to describe hand geometry information, such as finger and thumb lengths and spacing and minutiae extracted from print information.

[0053] The term"non-planar prism"includes a prism having a non-planar platen surface that extends around all or part of an axis of the prism, and whose non-planar platen surface allows for total internal reflection of light. A non-planar platen surface allows a print pattern (such as, a print pattern on a hand, a palm pocket, a writer's palm, a writer's palm with fingertips), or other hand characteristic images, to be captured. An example of this type of prism can be an approximately conically-shaped prism. Other examples can be approximately spherically shaped prisms, curved prisms, and the like.

Overall System [0054] FIG. 1 shows a system 100 for capturing image data representing biometric data according to an embodiment of the present invention. System 100 includes a local section or unit 102 and a remote section or unit 104 (e. g., a computer, or the like) that can be coupled via a network 106. Network 106 can be any type of network or combination of networks known in the art, such as a packet-switched network with wired or wireless links, an intranet, the Internet, an Ethernet, or the like. Example links are links having a FIREWIRE or USB network interface. The remote section 104 may be in a same area as the local section 102, such that local and remote refer to an approximate distance they are relative to a final processing device of the image data (e. g., print or hand characteristic data).

[0055] Local section 102 includes a non-planar prism 108, having a non- planar (e. g. , curved) surface that is symmetrical about an axis of symmetry of the prism, positioned between a light source 110 and a scanning imaging system 112. Scanning imaging system 112 can include a rotating imaging system 114 and a detecting system 116 (e. g. , a camera). Scanning imaging system 112 captures image data from parts of a hand (not shown) interacting with non-planar prism 108. The image data is processed in processing and control system 118, which can generate one or both of an output signal and a communications signal, which can include the image data. The output signal can be transmitted to an optional output device 120, while the communications signal can be transmitted to input/output (I/O) device 122. The I/O device 122 then sends the output signal to remote section 104 over network (s) 106.

[0056] Remote section 104 includes an Il0 device 124, a processing system 126, and optionally an output device 128. Processing system 126 can be used to process the image data to generate the biometric data. For example, extraction and matching operations can be performed on the image data. Once completed, results can be displayed or audibly indicated using output device 128. It is to be appreciated that other processes known in the biometric arts can also be performed in remote section 104. All of these additional processes are contemplated within the scope of the present invention. [0057] It is to be appreciated that network 106 and/or remote device 104 can be coupled to other peripheral devices and/or networks, which is contemplated within the scope of the present invention.

[0058] FIG. 2 shows local section 102 of system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Rotating imaging system 114 can include a motor 200, belt 202, and pulley 204 that rotates rotating stage 206, optical enclosure 208, and detecting system 116 around an axis of symmetry of non-planar prism 108. During rotation, positioning of rotating imaging system 114 can be monitored by controller 118 using signals from stop position sensor 210, home position sensor 212, and/or encoder system 214. In this example, encoder system 214 is an optical position encoder receiving light on sensor 216 after the light interacts with strip 218.

[0059] Although certain dimensions and/or types of devices are shown in this figure, these are not meant to be limiting, only exemplary. It is to be appreciated that different sizes or types of elements can be used within the scope of the present invention.

[0060] It is to be appreciated that, although not shown, various other types of devices can be used to rotate rotating imaging system 114. For example, an electromagnetic device (e. g. , stepper motor), a resilient device, or any other device known to one or ordinary skill in the art are all contemplated within the scope of the present invention. Thus, a motor/belt/pulley system is shown merely as one exemplary way to rotate rotating optical system 114.

[0061] FIG. 3 shows a portion 300 of output device 120 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Portion 300 can include one or more of <BR> <BR> the following indicators: a display 302 (e. g. , an LCD display), a plurality of<BR> visual indicators 304 (e. g. , LEDs), and/or audio device 306. Portion 300 can also include input devices 308.

[0062] For example, depending on the functionality provided in local system 102, display 302 can output results from an image quality capture routine or an extract and match procedure performed using processing system 126 (e. g. , a<BR> good scan, an identity of an individual scanned, etc. ). Display 302 can also be used to give instructions to an operator as to what needs to done prior to, during, and subsequent to the scanning. This allows extract and match or other intensive image processing computations to be performed by processing system 126, reducing the burden on processing system 118. The present invention is not so limited, however, as processing in general can be distributed all or in part between processing systems 118 and 126 depending on a particular design or application, as would be apparent to person skilled in the art given this description. Display 302 can further be used to indicate status of the scanning and whether it was successfully completed or not. In another example, display 302 can be a touch panel display that allows an operator to enter information into system 100 or control system 100 using control device on the display.

[0063] LEDs 304, as shown in this example, can provide information about system 100 being ON, OFF, READY, or IN USE. LEDs 304 can also provide information regarding a quality of the scan, for example whether the images obtained are acceptable or rejected.

[0064] Audio device 306 can give audio indications of the status of system 100 shown through LEDs 304. Audio device 306 can also be used to provide pre-stored instructions for an operator, that might be in response to a status of system 100 or a quality of the scanned image.

[0065] Input devices 308 can be buttons, mechanical interfaces, electronic interfaces, etc. that can be used to control system 100 and or a scanning operation (e. g. , an ON/OFF button, a start scan button, or the like).

[0066] FIGS. 4,5, 6, and 7 show zoomed in views of portions of encoder section 214 according to various embodiments of the present invention. Any type of position encoder can be used including, but not limited to, optical, magnetic, or mechanized position encoders with incremental or absolute position encoding.

[0067] FIG. 4 shows an encoder strip 218 having an incremental encoder scale 400 that is coupled to rotating stage 206.

[0068) FIG. 5 shows a transmission type optical encoder 500. Light passes through scale 400 to be detected by encoder 500 while stage 206 is rotating.

[0069] FIG. 6 shows a reflection type optical encoder 600. Light reflects from scale 400 to be detected by encoder 600 while stage 206 is rotating. <BR> <BR> <P>[0070] FIG. 7 shows a mechanical encoder 700. An extension 702 (e. g. , rod or shaft) interacts with scale 400. This interaction can be monitored by encoder 700.

[0071] FIG. 8 shows an optical system 208 (e. g. , one or more optical<BR> elements, lenses, etc. ) that can be used to direct an image from prism 108 onto detecting system 116 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0072] In one embodiment, optical system 208 can include a large optical <BR> <BR> device (e. g. , a lens, a stationary lens, etc. ) that is large enough to direct light<BR> from an entire bottom area of prism 108 (e. g. , surface 912 shown in FIG. 9<BR> below) onto detecting system 116 (e. g. , a stationary array large area array). In this embodiment, detecting system 116 can be a relatively large area scanner that looks an entire bottom area of non-planar prism 108. This is in contrast to having a rotating optical device (e. g. , 1670 or 1670'shown in FIGS. 16-17) that is used to scan light totally internally reflected from surface 916 (FIG. 9) that exits prism 108 through surface 912 (FIG. 9) onto detecting system 116.

[0073] In some embodiments process and control system 118 can receive inputs from stop position sensor 210, home position sensor 212, a heater coupled to non-planar prism 108, I/O device 122, and other devices that may be associated with system 100. These inputs can be used to generate various output control signals, for controlling I/O device 122, scanning imaging system 112, and/or other devices that may be associated with system 100. I/O devices 122 and 124 can be FIREWIRE or USB transceivers, or other types of devices as are known in the relevant arts.

Non-Planar Prism [0074] FIG. 9 shows a cross-sectional view of non-planar prism 108 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Non-planar prism 108 has an opening 900 running along an axis of symmetry 902. Opening 900 is defined within an area 904 of non-planar prism 108 that has a non-planar first section 910 and a substantially planar second section 912. A top portion of non-planar prism 108 can contain a guide or positioning device 914, which is used to properly place a subject's hand (not shown) during biometric image capture.

[0075] Non-planar prism 108 can be solid or hollow and manufactured from transparent, translucent, and/or colored acrylic, glass, plastic, or the like.

Prism 108 may be coated with various protective coatings, as is known in the relevant arts. If the non-planar prism material is colored, it can be of a color that matches a color of light for a light source being used. A first surface 906 of first section 910 is shaped so as to provide the non-planar aspect to prism 108. As discussed above, the non-planar shape is preferably approximately conical, but can also be curved, spherical, or the like.

[0076] Platen surface 906 is a surface upon which an object (e. g. , hand (s)) having a print is placed. Platen surface 906 can be a surface of non-planar prism 108 or another surface in optical contact with an outside surface of prism 108. For example, platen surface 906 can be a surface of an optical protective layer (e. g. , silicone pad) placed on prism 108 at section 910.

[0077] In operation, the subject's hand is positioned using positioning device 914 and light enters non-planar prism 108 either from within opening 900 or an edge 918 of opening 900. Based on an index of refraction of prism 108 being greater than that of air outside the prism, so long as the light interacts with prism 108 at a critical angle or larger, all the light is totally internally reflected (e. g. , experiences total internal reflection (TIR) ) through second section 912 onto a detector 116 (see FIG. 8).

[0078] Through use of the shape shown for non-planar prism 108, <BR> <BR> substantially all or part of a hand (e. g. , thenar and/or hypothenar region of the<BR> palm, the"writer's palm, "inter digital regions, palm heel, palm pocket, and/or fingertips) can be captured in one or more scans. This is partially because surface area 910 is sized to receive one or more hands wrapped around non- planar prism 108 generally along a direction of a curve. Accordingly, in embodiments, images with features of up to two hands of a subject can be captured in a single scan.

[0079] In an optional embodiment, a air treatment system 950 can be located proximate prism 108. Air treatment system 950 can include one or more of the following elements: a sensor 952, a controller 954, an air supply 956, an air treatment device 958, and an air director 960. It is to be appreciated that although air is used as an exemplary material, other materials now known or developed in the future, which can perform the same function as air, are also contemplated within the scope of the present invention. Sensor 952 can be a temperature sensor or any other type of sensor. Air supply 956 can be a pure gas supply, an ambient air supply, or the like. Air treatment device 958 can be an air conditioner, a heater, or the like. Air director 960 can be a blower, a recirculation pump, or the like. <BR> <BR> <P>[0080] Through directing (e. g. , blowing) of air, moisture around prism 108 or a hand (s) interacting therewith can be reduced or substantially eliminated <BR> <BR> (e. g. , dehumidified). This can allow for reduction or elimination of a halo in a<BR> captured image. The air can be either treated (e. g. , heated, conditioned, etc.) air from air supply 956 that is treated using device 958 or ambient air, which may or may not be treated using device 958. [0081] In one embodiment, air treatment system 950 directs a relatively large volume of air, which can dry a hand or platen (i. e. , remove or evaporate moisture). In another embodiment, air treatment system 950 directs a relatively small volume of air at a prism, which prevents condensation (e. g. , in humid environments) from forming on a platen when a finger or hand is placed thereon. This reduces or prevents a halo from appearing in a captured image.

[0082] In other configurations, air treatment system 950 can be used to allow for ionization of surface 906 to reduce static electricity on surface 906, which can reduce direct particles.

[0083] In still other configurations, air treatment system 950 can be used to sanitize surface 906 in order to reduce bacteria in or around the surface.

[0084] In still other configurations, sensor 952 can be used to monitor a temperature at, inside, or around prism 108. Controller 954 generates a control signal transmitted to air treatment device 958 to most appropriately treat prism 108. While in other configurations prism 108 may not require monitoring, and air treatment is done with sensing any conditions in or around prism 108.

[0085] FIGS. 10-11, as discussed in more detail below, illustrate how a subject places one 1000 or both 1100 hands on non-planar prism 108. As can be seen, positioning device 914 in used is either case to properly align the hand 1000 or hands 1100 on non-planar prism 108 for image capture. <BR> <BR> <P>[0086] FIGS. 23-24 show approximate possible dimensions (e. g. , in inches) for non-planar prism 108 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this example, non-planar prism 108 is approximately a 45 degree by 45 degree by 90 degree non-planar prism, with respect to opening 900.

Other angles can be used as long as total internal reflection is maintained to allow capture of print images. Also, in this example, a diameter Dl of opening 900, a diameter D2 of positioning device 914, and a diameter D3 of non-planar prism 108 are shown in FIG. 24. These diameters are exemplary, and not intended to limit the invention in any way. It is to be appreciated that other dimensions for these diameters could also be used (e. g. , larger or smaller).

Surface Finishing [0087] FIGS. 25-27 show stages of surface 2500 of non-planar prism 108 when surface 2500 undergoes a smoothing process, according to a further feature of the present invention.

[0088] In FIG. 25, surface 2500 is shown after receiving a machine finish. It is to be appreciated that this figure is not drawn to scale. The roughness of surface 2500 is exaggerated for purposes of illustration. The machine finish can be achieved using a mill, a lathe, a shaper, a machine tool, a human tool, a cast, a grinder, a polisher, or the like. These tools usually leave surface 2500 with the machine finish. A certain roughness can occur at a machine finish of less than 32 micro inches root mean square. Another finishing method can be to use a diamond turned surface device, which leaves surface 2500 closer to optical quality finish. Typically, the machine finish may appear and feel smooth, but it can be orders of magnitudes away from being an optical quality finish. For example, the machine finish can have valleys and grooves of about 16 micro inches, while optical quality is typically measured in wavelengths of light.

[0089] In FIG. 26, a protective refractive index matched coating 2600 can be applied over the machine finish. The coating 2600 can be transparent and have a viscosity that allows it to flow into and fill rough contours of surface 2500 to obtain a high quality optical finish. The coating 2600 can be applied through various techniques (e. g. , dipping, spinning, vapor deposition, sputter<BR> deposition, spraying, etc. ). The technique chosen can vary based on a type of coating material used, its viscosity, and its curing requirements. In some cases, dielectric materials in the coating can retain a large electrostatic charge, which is known to attract and retain undesirable particles of dust, dirt, and other foreign materials. The addition of an optically clear, electrically conductive material within coating 2600 can be utilized to eliminate this problem.

[0090] In FIG. 27, surface 906 is shown as an optically finished surface. After the coating 2600 is applied, excess coating can be removed. The remaining surface is cured (e. g. , using air drying, UV radiation, heat, or the like).

[0091] An exemplary advantage of using the above surface finishing can be that a high quality finish is obtained without having to perform expensive machining on a complex surface shape of prism 108.

[0092] Use of coating 2600 can facilitate the application of an optical target (see element 3492 in FIG. 34) on surface 906 of non-planar prism 108. Target 3492 may be applied by a variety of techniques (e. g. , silk screening, stamping,<BR> photo transfer, laser engraving, mechanical engraving, etc. ). Target 3492 can be a calibration target or other information desired in a particular application.

Coating 2600 can also provide protection of the prism surface from mechanical damage.

Additional Exemplary Non-Planar Prism Configurations [0093] FIGS. 28-30 show a side, bottom perspective, and top perspective view, respectively, of non-planar prism 108, according to various embodiments of the present invention. These figures also show, although not to scale, scan sections 2800 (e. g. , radial scan line images) that can occur during scanning of a subject's hand (or hands). For example, as described above, scanning image capture system 102 can take images at each scan section 2800 that are later processed to form a hand print image and/or used to determine print, finger, or hand characteristic information.

] FIG. 28 includes opening 900 that includes opening edge 918 that can have various finishes, such as a chamfered finish. For example, non-planar prism 108 can have a chamfered finish to edge 918 when configured for use with inside edge light sources. In contrast, as seen in FIG. 10, opening edge 918 can be squared, which is used for light sources that are inserted into section 900. Although not shown, a non-planar prism 108 can have an outside edge that is chamfered, which can be used with an outside edge light source.

Still other configurations of non-planar prism 108 can be used to comply with other light source positions, which are all contemplated within the scope of the present invention.

] FIGS. 31-32 show non-planar prisms 3100 and 3200, respectively, according to various other embodiments of the present invention. In FIGS. 31 and 32, non-planar prisms 3100 and 3200 have multi-faceted sections, that is they have multiple individual planar sections 3102-n and 3202-n arranged about an axis, where n is an integer (shown as n=l and n=2 in the figures). It is to be appreciated that in an embodiment in which n approaches infinity (e. g. , possibly 1000 planar sections 3102 or 3202 per inch), an outer surface of prism 3100 and 3200 can appear and feel smooth, similar to prism 108.

] Prisms 3100 and 3200 shown in FIGS. 31-32 also have first and second non-planar sections (e. g. , surfaces) 3104/3106 and 3204/3206, in contrast to only one non-planar section in prism 108 in previous configurations. Thus, both top 3104 or 3204 and bottom 3106 and 3206 portions of prisms 3100 and 3200 in FIGS. 31 and 32 have non-planar surfaces, which is in contrast to prism 108 that has a planar base.

] In one embodiment, sections 3102 and 3202 are discrete, planar sections that form multi-faceted portions of prisms 3100 and 3200. This is in contrast to prism 108 that may be unitary and have a smooth contour and a circular circumference. Although shown with a certain number of sections 3102 and 3202, other numbers of sections 3102 and 3202 can also be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. Prisms 3100 and 3200 including individual facet sections 3102,3202 can be formed as unitary structures or from individual sections coupled together. Alternatively, prism 108 can also be formed with multi-faceted sections and still have a planar base. In this case, prism 108 would be like the top-half of prism 3100 or 3200.

[0098] FIG. 33 shows a non-planar prism 3300 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Non-planar prism 3300 has a same general shape as non-planar prism 108, except it contains a cavity 3302 that can be filled with a liquid, fluid, gel, solid, or gas medium or material 3304. The medium or material 3304 can be chosen so that is has a similar or substantially same refractive index as non-planar prism surface 3306, although having a different refractive index is also contemplated within the scope of the present invention.

This is true as long as an effective optical path is provided internally through prism 108 and material 3304, such that a print image may be captured. A closing device 3308 (e. g. , a cap) can be used to seal cavity 3302.

Rotating Optical System [0099] Different embodiments of rotating optical systems according to the present invention are now described with respect to FIGS. 12-14 and 16-17.

[00100] FIG. 12 shows a section 1200 of system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Scanning imaging system 112 can rotate about axis 902 (e. g. , axis of rotation) to pick up images from surface 906. In the example shown in FIG. 12, a print pattern of a palm 1260 and fingers 1262 is scanned. It is to be appreciated that a thumb (not shown) can also be scanned, which is not shown in this perspective of section 1200. In this embodiment, light source 110 is positioned in opening 900 of non-planar prism 108.

[00101] Positioning device 914 can be used to position palm 1260 and fingers 1262, a single hand on one side of positioning device 914, or two hands with one on each side of positioning device 914. In another embodiment, a writer's palm and/or a writer's palm and fingertips can be imaged.

[00102] A hand is placed so that (based on the perspective of the figure) the thumb is on a left side of device 914 and fingers 1262 are on a right side of device 914. It is to be appreciated that in some examples two hands can be placed on non-planar prism 108, during which device 914 is used to separate the two hands. During operation, scanning device 112 may take about 3 seconds to about 10 seconds to fully scan all areas of non-planar prism 108. A dots per inch (dpi) resolution specified for the captured biometric image is used to determine a proper scanning speed. In examples, dpi resolution of approximately 500-1000 dpi is obtained. Higher resolution is generally obtained near a top of surface 906 than the base since a rotating line camera captures more overlapping samples of a scanned camera.

[00103] FIG. 13 shows a section 1300 of system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Section 1300 is similar to section 1200, except light source 110 illuminates opening edge 918 (e. g. , possibly a chamfered or angled edge) of an outer circumference of non-planar prism 108.

Surface 1380 of opening 900 can be opaque with respect to light beams from light source 110. The opaqueness can be based on coating surface 1380 with a black or dark material 1382, or from using other known ways of making a surface opaque. Making surface 1380 opaque substantially reduces the effects of stray or ambient light and allows for excellent contrast. This can allow for detecting system 116 to more easily distinguish between totally internally reflected light and possibly unwanted light.

[00104] FIG. 14 shows a section 1400 of system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Section 1400 is similar to sections 1200 and 1300, except light source 110 illuminates edge 1490 (e. g. , a chamfered or angled edge) of non-planar prism 108, and surface 1480 of opening 900 can be coated with a white, possibly reflective, material 1492, or from using other known way of making a surface white, light, and/or reflective. Making surface 1480 white substantially reduces the effects of stray or ambient light and allows for excellent contrast detecting system 116. This can allow detecting system to more easily distinguish between total internal reflection and other (e. g. , unwanted) light.

[00105] FIG. 15 shows an actual captured pixel layout 1500 for the biometric image data according to an embodiment of the present invention. Based on reflection angle of light from light source 110 relative prism 108, detecting system 116 can pick up pixel images as shown in layout 1500. Basically, a location of the print image along prism 108 at different diameters can lead to spreading or overlap of captured image data. This can be based on a rotation amount per scan for different areas of non-planar prism 108.

[00106] FIGS. 16-17 show a section 1600 of system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Section 1600 scans by rotating an <BR> <BR> optical component 1670 (e. g. , a dove non-planar prism, Pachan non-planar<BR> prism, or any other image rotator) around axis 902 (e. g. , an axis of rotation).

[00107] As seen in FIG. 16, in a first example, the rotation of optical component 1670 occurs in the direction of arrow 1672. As seen in FIG. 17, in a second example, light passing through rotating optical component 1670'is rotated internally within optical component 1670', without the optical component 1670 rotating, and onto detecting system 116. This can be accomplished with detecting system 116 moving along an arcuate scan path.

[00108] With continuing reference to FIGS. 16 and 17, section 1600 also includes an optical element 1674 (e. g. , a single optical lens) positioned adjacent non-planar prism 108 that directs received light onto an optical element 1676 positioned adjacent rotating optical component 1670. Light leaving rotating optical component 1670 is directed onto detecting system 116 using optic 1678. In this way, an image of a print pattern on prism 108 is detected by detecting system 116.

[00109] It is to be appreciated given this description that various other arrangements of optical elements (e. g. , one or more lenses, mirrors, etc. in various combinations) can also be used to direct light from non-planar prism 108 to detecting system 116 during scanning of scanning optical system 112.

These various other arrangements are contemplated within the scope of the present invention.

[00110] It is to be appreciated that a speed scanning optical system 112 can be used so that images have a resolution of about 500 dots per inch to about 1000 dots per inch, or other possible ranges as is known in the art.

Captured Hand Sections [00111] FIGS. 18-22 show examples of various aspects of a hand or palm that can be imaged in order to generate biometric information or data. These are merely exemplary areas of a hand or palm. Other areas can be images, as would be obvious to a person skilled in the art given this description. These examples are not meant to limit the invention.

[00112] FIG. 18 shows sections 1802-1814 of a palm 1800 of a hand 1816 that can be imaged, according to embodiments of the present invention. Section 1802 is a first interdigital area. Section 1804 is a second interdigital area.

Section 1806 is a third interdigital area. Section 1808 is a fourth interdigital area. Section 1810 is a thenar area. Section 1812 is a hypothenar area.

Section 1814 is a central area or palm pocket.

[00113] FIG. 19 shows creases 1900-1904 of palm 1800 that can be included in an image, according to embodiments of the present invention. Crease 1900 is a thenar crease. Crease 1902 is a proximal transverse crease. Crease 1904 is a distal transverse crease.

[00114] FIG. 20 shows a writer's palm or writer's palm hypothenar area 2000 of palm 1800. Writer's Palm 2000 includes a print pattern (ridges and valleys) that extends from palm hypothenar area 1812 up along a side of the hand.

[00115] FIG. 21 shows images 2100 of print patterns on right (R) and left (L) hand writer's palms 2000 and fingertips 2102, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[00116] According to a feature of the present invention, writer's palm 2000 and fingertips 2102 can be captured in a single scan because of the shape of non- planar prism 108. Unlike conventional planar platen surfaces, writer's palm 2000 and fingertips 2102 can be placed on a non-planar prism 108 at the same time during a live scan without requiring any difficult or awkward contortions of a person's hand.

[00117] FIG. 22 shows images 2200 of right and left hand prints captured during two scans of scanner 112 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[00118] FIG. 34 shows in stylized form an exemplary image 3400 including image data of both a hand print and/or hand characteristic information 3490 and calibration data 3492. This can include any print information described above, including writer's palm and/or writer's palm and fingertip information.

This may produce more readily admissible evidence under the Federal Rules of Evidence based on capturing and storing together the calibration data and the image data.

[00119] Capturing calibration data can be used to reproduce substantially exactly the image as originally captured. This is especially helpful as data is archived and subsequently accessed at different times by different systems and applications. Such systems and applications can access both the image data and calibration data in an original scan to enable successful, high-quality reproduction or analysis of the captured image data with appropriate calibration. Also, calibration data can be used to ensure system 100 is calibrated to capture a consistent and accurate image 3400. For example, system 100 can be calibrated each time scanning system 112 scans calibration data on non-planar prism 108.

[00120] As described above, the non-planar surface of the non-planar prism allows for a pocket of a palm of hand to make contact with a platen and break a surface total internal reflection of the non-planar prism. This creates a mechanism for capturing a high contrast round palm print image. According to further embodiments, a print image can also be captured that includes both a palm print and one or more fingerprints on a same hand. In this way, other biometric information can be extracted from the print images, such as, the association of the palm and fingerprints as belonging to the same hand, distance information on the distance from palm locations to finger locations, etc. According to still further embodiments, both a hand print and target/calibration information can be captured at a same time and stored together.

Conclusion [00121] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. It will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present invention should not be limited by any of the above- described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.