Indian-American scientist develops world`s first 3-D model fingerprint

In a development that could assist the accuracy of fingerprint-matching technology, computer scientists led by an Indian-American, have built the first three dimensional (3-D) model of a human fingerprint.

Zee Media Bureau

Washington: In a development that could assist the accuracy of fingerprint-matching technology, computer scientists led by an Indian-American, have built the first three dimensional (3-D) model of a human fingerprint.

Anil Jain, an alumnus of Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, and his colleagues from Michigan State University, developed a method which takes a two-dimensional image of a fingerprint and maps it to a 3-D finger surface.
The 3-D finger surface, complete with all the ridges and valleys that make up the human fingerprint, is made using a 3-D printer. It creates what Jain’s team called a fingerprint ‘phantom’.

Imaging phantoms are common in the world of medical imaging. For example, to make sure an MRI machine or a CT scanner is working properly, it needs to first image an object of known dimensions and material properties.

“In health care, a 3-D heart or kidney can be created. Because the dimensions are known, they can be put into a scanner and the imaging system can be calibrated,” Jain said.

In this case, the ultimate goal is to have a precise fingerprint model with known properties and features that can be used to calibrate existing technology used to match fingerprints.
“When I have this 3-D fingerprint phantom, I know its precise measurements,” said Jain.

“And because I know the true dimensions of the fingerprint features on this phantom, I can better evaluate fingerprint readers,” he said.

Researchers said while the 3-D model doesn’t yet have the exact texture or feel of a real finger, it could advance fingerprint sensing and matching technology.

Jain said that tools like this would help improve the overall accuracy of fingerprint-matching systems, which eventually leads to better security in applications ranging from law enforcement to mobile phone unlock.

The new development will not only improve fingerprint-matching system, but will also help in security application.

With Agency Inputs

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