26 September, 2007
category: Biometrics
L-1 Identity Solutions will partner with Ultra-Scan Corporation to develop a new live scan fingerprint reader based on ultrasonic imaging technology. Biometric fingerprint images are captured using high frequency sounds waves that are immune to surface conditions which increases accuracy. Optical scanners are limited because of the size and ruggedness required to achieve high resolution and high quality fingerprint images. This low power device will also withstand high degrees of shock and vibration.
L-1 Identity Solutions and Ultra-Scan Corporation Partner on New Live Scan Device Based on Ultrasonic Imaging
Stamford, CT — L-1 Identity Solutions, Inc. announced a partnership with Ultra-Scan Corporation for the development and supply of a revolutionary new live scan biometric fingerprint reader based on ultrasonic imaging technology. Capturing biometric fingerprint images with high frequency sound waves that are immune to surface conditions extends fingerprint total image accuracy into conditions where it has not been possible before with other scanning technologies. Further, the new device is expected to be significantly smaller and lighter than any solution on the market today. If successful, ultrasonic imaging represents a possible paradigm shift that could supplement or replace optical fingerprint sensors for a number of biometric capture applications.
L-1 will invest up to $5 million over the next three years with Ultra-Scan to develop and supply a fingerprint reader using ultrasonic imaging technology. In return, L-1 will receive certain exclusive rights to distribute and market the technology in the government market after completion of the project which is expected in early 2009. Additionally, L-1 has a right of first refusal to partner with Ultra-Scan regarding development and distribution of additional products based on ultrasonic imaging technology.
“Ultra-Scan’s fingerprint technology is pushing the science of biometrics to yet another level of performance which will have a broader range of application,” said Robert V. LaPenta, Chairman, President and CEO of L-1 Identity Solutions. “Additionally, utilizing the new, ultrasonic solid state technology developed and patented by Ultra-Scan, these new devices could provide a smaller form factor for mobile and fixed applications, as well as offer a higher level of reliability and ruggedness than presently available.”
L-1, a leading supplier of fingerprint scanning solutions, is continuing its objective of bringing the most advanced technology available to the marketplace. The new ultrasound scanner is expected to extend L-1’s reach into the enrollment, verification and mobile biometric markets, offering yet another complement to the Company’s leading multi-biometric solutions in fingerprint, palm print, facial and iris technologies.
Ultra-Scan Corporation, based in Amherst, New York, selected L-1 Identity Solutions over other potential partners in order to maximize the introduction of this breakthrough technology in the biometric marketplace.
“Ultra-Scan is pleased and excited about working with L-1, the industry leader in multi-modal biometric solutions,” stated Dr. John K. Schneider, President and CEO of Ultra-Scan Corporation. “Combining Ultra-Scan’s superior ultrasonic fingerprint technology with L-1’s broad portfolio of solutions will raise the standard for biometric system performance. Further, Ultra-Scan is confident the technology is viable for migration to a full hand scanner that will meet stringent FBI certification standards.”
Operating much like a photo copier, optical scanners work well for capturing fingerprint images by taking a photo of the fingerprints placed on the glass surface. While L-1 has developed patented technology that addresses some of the issues of optical sensors, such as moisture discrimination commonly associated with oily or wet fingers, there are limits on the size and ruggedness needed to achieve high resolution and high quality fingerprint images.
Ultra-Scan’s technology, which works similar to medical ultrasound, effectively images through “real-world” contamination found on the finger or built up on the platen surface, to always capture a detailed image of the fingerprints being scanned. This low power device will withstand high degrees of shock and vibration making it ideal for a wide variety of applications.
http://www.l1id.com/, http://www.ultra-scan.com
