In a recent patent, HUAWEI has detailed a design for a new ultrasonic fingerprint sensor that could improve fingerprint identification accuracy. This could potentially free HUAWEI from reliance on other companies’ patents.
HUAWEI’s Ultrasonic Fingerprint Sensor: Combining Strengths
Current fingerprint sensor technology has limitations. For example, optical sensors can be fooled by dirt or grease on the sensor. Ultrasonic sensors are less susceptible to these issues, but they can be less accurate than optical sensors.
HUAWEI’s new design could address these limitations by using a combination of ultrasonic and optical sensors. An ultrasonic sensor can generate a high-resolution image of the fingerprint, while an optical sensor can capture additional information, such as the depth of the fingerprint ridges. This combination of sensors could provide more accurate and reliable fingerprint identification than either sensor could provide on its own. It could also make fingerprint sensors more resistant to spoofing attacks.
According to the patent, HUAWEI’s ultrasonic fingerprint sensor would use a piezoelectric material to generate ultrasonic waves. The fingerprint ridges would reflect back waves traveling through the finger. A sensor would use the reflected waves to create a three-dimensional image of the fingerprint.
The patent also illustrates how one could use the ultrasonic fingerprint sensor in conjunction with an optical sensor. The optical sensor, in this scenario, captures additional information about the fingerprint, such as the colour of the skin and the presence of scars, thereby enhancing the accuracy of fingerprint identification.
If HUAWEI’s patent is successful, it could give the company a significant advantage in the development of fingerprint sensor technology. Ultrasonic fingerprint sensors are considered to be more secure than optical fingerprint sensors, as they are less susceptible to spoofing attacks. Additionally, ultrasonic fingerprint sensors can work through dirt, grease, and other contaminants, which can make them more convenient to use.
The development of ultrasonic fingerprint sensor technology is a positive step forward for the security industry. Ultrasonic fingerprint sensors have the potential to provide a more secure and convenient way to identify ourselves. It is important to note that HUAWEI’s patent is just that – a patent. It is not yet clear whether or not HUAWEI will be able to bring this technology to market.
Source: iThome via GizmoChina
