US20050168340A1 - Enhanced identification appliance having a plurality or data sets for authentication - Google Patents

Abstract

An enhanced identification appliance, such as a wristband, bracelet, patch, headband, neckband, ankleband, legband, card, sticker, or other wearable appliance, may have a biometric sensor, chemical sensor, optical sensor, heat sensor, pressure sensor, humidity sensor, electromagnetic sensor, acoustic sensor, various opto-electronics and/or various security features such as tamper-evident and tamper-resistant features. The sensors may obtain information about the wearer such as a fingerprint, retina, iris, blood, DNA, genetic data, voice pattern, temperature and other characteristic. Security features include a fastener on the identification appliance, which indicates whether the appliance has been attached to a wearer and if so, enables circuit functions. If one tampers with the appliance, circuit functions may be disabled, certain data erased, and/or evidence of tampering made apparent. The appliance may monitor the location or determine the identity of passengers for an airplane, train, boat, bus, or other vehicle. Alternatively, the identification band may contain a person's immigration status.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The field of the invention relates generally to identification appliances such as wristbands, and in particular to an identification appliance with a biometric sensor, chemical sensor, optical sensor, heat sensor, pressure sensor, humidity sensor, electromagnetic sensor, acoustic sensor, various opto-electronics and/or various security features such as tamper-evident and tamper-resistant features.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• This disclosure contemplates an improved identification wristband, bracelet, patch, headband, necklace, card, sticker, or other wearable appliance, which for the sake of convenience, are collectively referred to as a “band” or as a “identification appliance”. Identification bands have become a convenient and effective way of identifying people without permanently marking them. A principle advantage of a band is that it is ultimately removable. Identification bands typically consist of a flexible wrist strap having a length greater than its width, and a closure or securement device for attaching and maintaining the band securely around the wearer's wrist. A portion of the band may be used for imprinting or otherwise attaching identification or other information regarding the wearer. Bar codes, radio frequency identification (RFID) devices and the like may also be used to store and transfer information associated with the band and the associated person or object. For example, RFID devices includes those which operate in the frequency in therange 30 kilohertz (kHz) to 300 Gigahertz (GHz). Various band constructions, attachments and other features including the storage of electronic data and RFID functions are described, for example, in Penuela U.S. Pat. No. 5,493,805, Mosher U.S. Pat. No. 5,457,906, Mosher U.S. Pat. No. 5,973,600, Beigel U.S. Pat. No. 5,973,598, Beigel U.S. Pat. No. 6,181,287, Peterson U.S. Pat. No. 5,479,797, and Peterson U.S. Pat. No. 5,581,924.
• Bands are advantageous over other forms of ID cards containing data (such as credit cards, tickets or the like) since they can be attached to the wearer physically securely. As a result, current uses of identification bands include patient identification in hospitals, clinics and other locations; access in amusement parks; temporary security measures, facility access control, and ticketing and entitlement functions. While identification bands have been used for these purposes, additional applications for identification bands and the like are needed.
• One important use for identification bands is patient identification and location in hospitals, clinics and other locations. When used in conjunction with an appropriate reader, patient information can be collected electronically and used by the medical staff in performance of their duties. Another example is to track the location of personnel such as convicts in a prison. When identification bands are used to designate who has authority to enter a restricted area, whether it be a concert hall or prison, the method of attachment of the identification band must be secure. Identification wristbands typically consist of a flexible wrist strap and a closure device for attaching and maintaining the wristband securely around the wearer's wrist. Further, an important aspect of identification bands, used for example in hospitals, jails, or hazardous work areas, is the security of the information contained in or on the band. In order to prevent fraud or mis-identification, it is desirable that the band and the associated information be securely and reliably maintained both physically and operationally. Although the prior art has attempted to make an identification band more secure, there is a need for further improvements.
• Identification bands provide information simply, for example, by a person visually reading printed information on the band, scanning barcode information, or electronically reading identification information transmitted by the identification band. Thus, barcodes, RFID devices and the like are used to enhance the information storage and data transfer of information associated with the band and the associated person or object. There is a need to improve the type of information contained on an identification band as well as the manner in which the information is maintained.
• Moreover, when an identification band incorporates wireless communications and data storage functions, opportunities for falsification and fraudulent use are increased. Of concern are insuring tamper detection, tamper prevention, secure transmission of information, the integrity of the information, and the prevention of unauthorized transfer of the information to others. Improvements in each of these areas are needed.
• Information may be stored electronically in a transponder or RFID “tag” and that information is communicated to a tag “reader.” Communication between the RFID tag and reader is by the transmission and reception of electromagnetic (EM) waves, and each must have an antenna to convert electrical signals to EM waves and vice versa RFID systems can operate over a wide range of frequencies, including the high-frequency (HF) through super-high-frequency (SHF) radio bands, roughly 3 Megahertz (MHz) to 6 Gigahertz (GHz), such as 5.88 GHz, as well as frequencies in the vicinity of 400 MHz, 915 MHz, 2.45 GHz in the ultra-high frequency (UHF) band and 13.5 MHz. Coupling between the tag antenna and the reader antenna below about 50 MHz is primarily by the magnetic component of the reactive near field, in which the tag antenna is configured as a coil in a resonant circuit. Above 50 MHz, the transmission mechanism is the electric field in which the tag antenna is configured as a radiating element.
• Because identification appliances may communicate with other devices, additional features and circuits may be desirable as well.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
• An identification appliance, such as a wristband, bracelet, patch, headband, neckband, ankleband, armband, belt, card, sticker, or other wearable appliance, is enhanced with a biometric sensor, chemical sensor, optical sensor, heat sensor, pressure sensor, humidity sensor, electromagnetic sensor, acoustic sensor, optical display, various opto-electronics and/or various security features such as tamper-evident and tamper-resistant features, as described herein. Also described are readers and verifiers for reading data from identification appliances, as well as applications for the identification appliance in passenger ticketing, passenger baggage checking and claiming, and immigration status.
• Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the invention will be or will become apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description, be within the scope of the invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the invention. Moreover, in the figures, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the different views. However, like parts do not always have like reference numerals. Moreover, all illustrations are intended to convey concepts, where relative sizes, shapes and other detailed attributes may be illustrated schematically rather than literally or precisely.
• FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a prior art RFID wristband or bracelet.
• FIG. 2 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved secure identification band.
• FIG. 3 is a representative illustration of another example embodiment of an improved secure identification band.
• FIG. 4 is a representative illustration of yet another example embodiment of an improved secure identification band.
• FIG. 5 is a representative illustration of yet another example embodiment of an improved secure identification band, which contains ink that is released by tampering.
• FIG. 6 is a representative illustration of still another example embodiment of an improved secure identification band, which, when attached, creates an identifying pattern in both visible and electronic forms.
• FIG. 7 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification band that stores biometric information.
• FIG. 8 is a representative illustration of another example embodiment of an improved identification band, which stores biometric and alphanumeric information.
• FIG. 9 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification band, which stores biometric and alphanumeric information and whose circuit functions are activated when the band is attached or deactivated when the band is unfastened, torn, cut, or overly stretched.
• FIG. 10 is a representative illustration of an example method of using an improved identification band for passenger ticketing and boarding.
• FIG. 11 is a representative illustration of an example method of using an improved identification band for passenger baggage tagging and claiming.
• FIG. 12 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, which has printed biometric data.
• FIG. 13 is a representative illustration of another example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with printed biometric data.
• FIG. 14 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with a biometric sensor.
• FIG. 15 is a representative illustration of another example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, which has a biometric sensor and a wireless communication circuit.
• FIG. 16 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, which has a biometric sensor, a wireless communication circuit such as a RFID circuit, and an electronic memory or data storage device.
• FIG. 17 is a representative illustration of yet another example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with a biometric sensor and display.
• FIG. 18 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with photovoltaic cells.
• FIG. 19 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with embedded circuitry and a microstrip or patch antenna.
• FIG. 20 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, which performs signal processing and computation and has an electronic data storage device or memory.
• FIG. 21 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with one or more chemical sensors.
• FIG. 22 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with an acoustic sensor.
• FIG. 23 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with electro-optical components.
• FIG. 24 is a representative illustration of yet another example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with an optical sensor.
• FIG. 25 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with a flexible keypad.
• FIGS. 26A and 26B are representative illustrations of an example method of embedding silicon and/or printed circuitry, or other components, in an identification appliance such as an identification band.
• FIGS. 27A and 27B are representative illustrations of an example method of implementing printed circuitry in an identification appliance such as an identification band.
• FIG. 28 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with a flexible battery or power source.
• FIG. 29 is a representative illustration of another example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with a “button” style battery.
• FIG. 30 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, which is partially disposable.
• FIG. 31 is a representative illustration of another example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, which is partially disposable.
• FIG. 32 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance that is reusable.
• FIGS. 33A, 33B and33C are representative illustrations of example embodiments of a biometric reader/verifier of identification appliances.
• FIGS. 34A, 34B and34C are representative illustrations of example applications of a biometric identification appliance reader/verifier.
• FIG. 35 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved secure identification appliance, such as an identification band, with electronic tamper detection.
• FIG. 36 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved secure identification appliance, such as an identification band, with electronic tamper detection using conductive or non-conductive glue.
• FIG. 37 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an airport security system that uses an improved secure identification appliance, such as an identification band.
• FIG. 38 is a representative illustration of another example embodiment of an airport security system that uses an improved secure identification appliance, such as an identification band.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
• As used in this specification, the meaning of “in,” whether alone or in a compound such as “therein,” includes “in” and “on”; “radio frequency identification” and “RFID” refer to identification by radio frequency communication.
• FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a prior art RFID wristband or bracelet1. Thesubstrate2 is an elongated flexible strip or laminate of polymer or paper. TheRFID circuit3 comprises antenna circuitry, signal generator circuitry, programmable encoder circuitry and interconnection circuitry. A fastener to adjustably and securely attach the wristband1 comprises, on one end of thesubstrate2, a snap fastener withparts4 and8, which can close over the other end ofsubstrate2, through one of the adjustingholes6 therein, and snap together. Any of the embodiments described in this disclosure may include a fastener, which may be made adjustable, for example, by providing multiple mating or locking parts, a continuously variable length locking apparatus, or a unidirectional sizing locking apparatus (i.e., a known-type of fastener that allows a band to be made tighter, but not looser). The circuitry comprising theRFID circuit3 can be, in various combinations, carried in thesubstrate2, or formed by deposition on a layer in thesubstrate2 of one or more of conductive paths, semiconductor devices, or polymer materials, in accordance with U.S. Pat. No. 5,973,598. The fastener can also comprise an adhesive wristband closure in accordance with U.S. Pat. No. 5,457,906, a closure mechanism in accordance with U.S. Pat. No. 5,479,797, a rivet, a staple, a crimp, or a heat-created bond, which securely attaches the ends of the wristband to each other and closes the wristband around the wearer's wrist.
• FIG. 2 illustrates an example embodiment of an improvedsecure identification band90. As with any of the embodiments described in this disclosure, an identification “band” may comprise a wristband, bracelet, patch, headband, armband, legband, ankleband, fingerband, toe band, necklace, card, sticker, waistband, belt, or other wearable appliance. The identification band may include data that is perceivable to humans, animals, or machines. For example, the emission of an aerosol chemical or scent may be easily detectable by an animal such as a dog. Humans are intended fall under the “animal” category. Further, the data may be alphanumeric data, optical character recognizable data (such as bar codes), images, photographs, magnetically readable data, and/or biometric data. Biometric data refers to data, which can be used to identify a person such as the person's fingerprint, retina, blood, DNA, or voice data. In this particular example illustration, theidentification band90 includes astructure91 that is suitable to be worn by, attached to, or carried by a person. Preferably, theidentification band90 is a wristband and thestructure91 is an elongate, flexible wristband material. For example, thestructure91 may be an elongated flexible strip or laminated combination of polymeric, paper, or organic substrate. As used in this specification, “organic” includes polymeric. However, theidentification band90 need not be attached only to the wrist of a person as it also can be attached to the ankle, neck, or other part of a person or animal, or to an object. The fastening of theband90 closes acircuit92 and enables circuit functions such as RFID functions. If desired, the opening of the fastener, opens or disables thecircuit92. Theimproved band90 comprises asubstrate structure91, acircuit92, a fastener withparts93 and94, adjustingholes95, andconductors96 and97, which connect thecircuit92 to eachfastener part93 and94. The fastener preferably closes an electronic circuit, makes an electrical connection when fastened, or otherwise enables an electronic circuit by, for example, electrical or capacitive coupling. Alternatively, the fastener may be electrically conductive. Still alternatively, the fastener may enable a circuit by inductive or magnetic coupling. As with any embodiment described in this disclosure, thecircuit92 preferably includes other circuits, such as antenna circuitry, communication circuitry, signal generator circuitry, programmable encoder circuitry and interconnection circuitry. Further and as with any embodiments in this disclosure, the circuit may perform a variety of functions including communication functions such as RFID. In one embodiment, a surface mount RFID chip containing electronic circuits is mounted within the identification band and electrically connected to an antenna. Alternatively, the RFID chip may be formed by deposition on a layer or layers in thestructure91, or on both sides of a layer in thestructure91. The circuitry comprising the communication circuit can be, in various combinations, carried in thesubstrate91, or formed by deposition on a layer in thesubstrate91 of one or more of conductive paths, semiconductor devices, or polymer materials. A circuit consisting entirely of conductive, insulating and/or semiconductive materials directly deposited on thesubstrate91 may also be used. In fact, any of the circuits on the identification band can be made either partially or totally from semiconductors, conductors and insulators, and may be fabricated of inorganic or organic materials, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,973,598, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. An exemplary technique for forming an organic device, such as an organic semiconductor, is described in an article by Garnier et al. entitled “All-Polymer Field-Effect Transistor Realized by Printing Techniques” (Science, Vol. 265, 16 Sep. 1994), the entire article of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. In other words, the identification band may have electronic components made either partially or totally from semiconductors, conductors and insulators, which may be inorganic or organic, and which may be printed on the identification band. U.S. Pat. No. 5,973,598 describes organic components, any of which may be used in the improved identification band. Further, a memory containing organic material is described in U.S. Patent Application No. 2001000817107, titled “Integrated Circuit Provided with a Substrate and with a Memory, Transponder, and Method of Programming a Memory,” issued Nov. 29, 2001 to U.S. Philips Corp., the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. It is preferable for the components of theidentification band90 to be thin so it is comfortable to wear. Additionally, it is preferable for thesubstrate91 and the printed components to be flexible.
• Further, as with any embodiment having a circuit, thecircuit92 ofFIG. 2 may include a control logic or processing unit, which may be a microprocessor, microcontroller, central processing unit (CPU), arithmetic logic unit (ALU), math coprocessor, floating point coprocessor, graphics coprocessor, hardware controller, programmable logic device programmed for use as a controller, or other control logic. The circuit may include any of the circuits described in this disclosure or known to those of skill in the art of circuit design. As with any of the embodiments described in this disclosure, the circuit further may include an optional data storage device, such as a memory of any kind. The data storage device or memory may be fabricated out of inorganic materials, organic materials, or a combination of inorganic and organic materials. Theidentification band90, and any of the identification bands described in this disclosure, may include an antenna such as a microstrip antenna described in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, titled “Microstrip Antenna for an Identification Appliance,” filed on Mar. 5, 2002, whose entire disclosure is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.
• When the fastener closes, theparts93 and94 of the fastener come into contact, which closes thecircuit92 through theconductors96 and97, thereby enabling circuit functions. Theconductors96 and97 may each comprise two or more separate electrical conductors that are connected to thecircuit92; the conductors further may comprise one or more of conductive wire or fiber, conductive foil, meltable conductor, or a printed conductor. In communication with the conductors is a fastener comprising one or more of a conductive adhesive, a conductive closure mechanism, a magnetic closure mechanism, a conductive rivet or staple, a crimped attachment, or a heat-created bond in proximity to the conductors, any of which when applied electrically connects, enables an electrical connection between, or alters the capacitance between, the conductors, thereby closing one or more electrical circuits, which may, for example, power thecircuit92, connect an antenna, tune the antenna, or change a logic state input to thecircuit92.
• Other fasteners that can be used in any of the embodiments described in this disclosure include applying to the overlapping portions of the substrate one or more of the steps of permanently deforming the substrate to bond together the overlapped portions, rupturing walls of adhesive-filled microspaces in the substrate and optionally curing the adhesive by radio frequency, heat or ultraviolet exposure, rupturing walls of microspaces in the substrate separately filled with adhesive and catalyst that mix and cure thereupon, or by melting together adjacent surface areas of the overlapped portions, which when performed, securely attaches the ends of the wristband to each other, thereby closing the wristband around the wearer's wrist. As with any embodiment described in this disclosure, the fastener may enable a circuit by, for example, electrical, inductive, capacitative coupling.
• Yet another alternative is to attach the identification band by a means similar to a belt buckle. For example, the buckle may be mounted to one end of thesubstrate91 and which when opened, allows free movement of the other end of the substrate though the buckle so that the band be adjustably fitted to the wearer. The buckle design also permits removal of the identification band from the wearer for reuse. The buckle may comprise an electrical conductor and circuit-activating means to activate thecircuit92 when the identification band is fastened and to deactivate thecircuit92 when the identification band is unfastened or removed. The buckle can made of an electrically conductive metal of a type that is known to be suitable for buckles, including but not limited to an alloy of iron, copper or aluminum; the buckle can also be made of a polymer having an electrically conductive coating thereon. The circuit-activating means may comprise two separate electrical conductors in thesubstrate91, each of which separately connects to thecircuit92 and extends toward the end of the substrate that does not have the buckle. When the buckle closes and clamps thesubstrate91 between the movable and fixed portions of the buckle, a direct contact or a capacitive gap forms between each conductor and the buckle conductor, or the buckle alternatively brings together associated conductive surfaces, thereby closing an electrical circuit, which in turn activates thecircuit92. When the buckle is opened and the identification band is removed, the direct contact or capacitive gap between each conductor and the buckle conductor is broken, thereby opening the electrical circuit, which in turn deactivates thecircuit92.
• The securement of the identification band may be permanent for the usage life of the band, or may be temporary and defeatable by an authorized procedure. In the case of temporary securement, the identification band may be re-used and re-secured using an authorized procedure or method by an authorized agency or person.
• Any of the identification appliances or bands described in this disclosure may have electromagnetic energy absorption means so that the identification band may be energized by an external electromagnetic field signal. For example, an antenna may obtain power from a received signal, where the power is used to power some or all of the circuits on the identification appliance. The interrogating/powering electromagnetic signal provides power and enabling information to the identification band. The interrogating/powering signals may contain a power signal only or both a power signal and information modulated onto the power signal. Upon energizing by an electromagnetic signal, the identification band may display optically readable information according to the data programmed in the band, stored in the band, or received from the interrogating/enabling device.
• Likewise, any of the identification appliance described in this disclosure may include an optional audio, visual, or sensory (e.g., vibrating) device to display information such as the scanned biometric data and alphanumeric information. The display may be a light emitting polymer diode, a liquid crystal display (LCD), or a diode-capacitor directly connected to an antenna that may be a resonant antenna. An example of a diode-capacitor is provided in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/723,897, titled “Rectifying Charge Storage Element” and filed on Nov. 28, 2000, the entirety of which application is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. The diode-capacitor may, for example, include a LEDICAP, which is a diode-capacitor formed with a light-emitting polymer that emits light when current flows through it. The display can be always on, turned on by the circuit in the identification band, or activated by an external electromagnetic field signal. If an interrogating/powering electromagnetic signal includes a power signal and data modulated onto the power signal, the display may indicate only the presence of an interrogating or powering field, or it may indicate the data transmitted with the interrogating or powering field. Still alternatively, the display may indicate data derived from internal data in the identification band, a combination of information from both the identification band and the interrogating/powering field, or information derived from the band and/or the field.
• The display may consist of a single device or a plurality of devices. A single device may be formed in an arbitrary shape, including an alphanumeric character, logo, or other recognizable symbol or picture. A plurality of devices may be formed into a matrix (row/column addressable) or another combination that creates a variety of different recognizable visual outputs such as pre-formed characters or symbols. The display may be based on an array of pixels. The display may be a flexible display formed on or attached to the substrate of the identification band. The display may be formed of reflective technologies such as electrophoretic, ferroelectric, cholesteric, or emissive technologies such as organic LED (OLED), PDLC (a reflective mode polymer-dispersed-liquid-crystal display) plasma, or cholesteric nematic (passive matrix LCD) technologies. A reflective display may be attached to or formed on the identification band, and the reflective display may be either volatile, where the display only produces an optical output when it is powered, or nonvolatile, where the display retains its optical state even after power is withdrawn from it. A nonvolatile display may be write-once or be re-programmable. The display may provide information that is optically readable as image data by humans or machines, or a time-varying modulated optical signal (e.g., from a light-emitting diode or composite organic light-emitting device) that may be decoded remotely by an electro-optical receiver.
• Any of the identification appliances or bands described in this disclosure may include an optional optical information transmission means so that information programmed or stored in the identification band may be transmitted optically as a modulated signal, through any of the known modulation techniques. Such an optical device may include silicon and organic or polymer light emitting diodes (LEDs).
• FIG. 3 illustrates another example embodiment of an improvedsecure identification band90. Theband90 has acircuit92 that opens and disables certain functions, such as communication or RFID functions, when the band is torn, cut, or overly stretched. Theband200 comprises at least onesubstrate91, acircuit92, a fastener withparts93 and94, adjustingholes95, and aconductor99 that forms a closed circuit with thecircuit92. When theband90 is torn, cut, or overly stretched, theconductor99 breaks, thereby opening the circuit and disabling circuit functions. Theconductor99 may comprise a pattern of electrical interconnections in thesubstrate91, the conductors of which comprise one or more of a conductive wire or fiber, conductive foil, organic conductor, or printed conductor. When theband90 is torn, cut, or overly stretched, theconductor99 is severed or broken, thereby disconnecting portions of thecircuit92, which may in turn power thecircuit92 off, disconnect an antenna, detune the antenna, or change one or more logic state inputs to thecircuit92.
• Alternatively, circuit functions can also be disabled by using a pattern of non-conductive fibers in thesubstrate91 that are stronger than substrate and electrical interconnections therein; when theband90 is stretched or twisted, the fibers tear thesubstrate91 and rupture electrical circuits therein, which destroys or renders inoperative, for example, a data storage device in thecircuit92, a data transmission device in thecircuit92, some other circuit in thecircuit92, or theentire circuit92. This alternative approach may be implemented in any of the other embodiments described in this disclosure.
• FIG. 4 illustrates yet another example embodiment of an improvedsecure identification band90.Band90 has acircuit92 that closes and enables certain circuit functions when theband90 is fastened and that opens and disables certain circuit functions when theband90 is unfastened or is torn, cut, or overly stretched. As shown inFIG. 4, theband90 comprises asubstrate91, acircuit92, a fastener withparts93 and94, adjustingholes95, andconductors96 and97 that connect thecircuit92 to eachfastener part93 and94. The fastener preferably closes an electrical circuit or makes an electrical connection when fastened. Alternatively, the fastener may be electrically conductive. When the fastener closes, theparts93 and94 of the fastener come into contact, thereby closing thecircuit92 through theconductors96 and97 and enabling circuit functions. When theband90 is unfastened, or is torn, cut, or overly stretched andconductor96 or97 breaks, the circuit opens and disables certain or all circuit functions. Theconductors96 and97 may comprise two or more separate electrical conductors that are connected to thecircuit92, the conductors comprising one or more of conductive wire or fiber, conductive foil, meltable conductor, or a printed conductor. In communication with the conductors may be a fastener comprising one or more of a conductive adhesive, a conductive closure mechanism, a magnetic closure mechanism, a conductive rivet or staple, a crimp, or a heat-created bond in proximity to the conductors, any of which when applied electrically connects the conductors, enables an electrical connection between, or alters the capacitance between, the conductors, thereby closing one or more electrical circuits that may, for example, power thecircuit92, connect an antenna, tune the antenna, or change a logic state input to thecircuit92. When the electrical circuits are opened by unfastening, stretching, or cutting theband90, portions of thecircuit92 are disconnected, which may power off portions or all of thecircuit92, disconnect an antenna, detune the antenna, or change a logic state input to thecircuit92. As previously mentioned, circuit functions can be disabled alternatively by using a pattern of non-conductive fibers in thesubstrate91 that are stronger thansubstrate91 and electrical interconnections therein. When theband90 is overly stretched or twisted, the fibers tear or deform thesubstrate91 and rupture electrical circuits therein, thereby destroying a data storage device in thecircuit92, a data transmission device in thecircuit92, any other circuit in thecircuit92, or theentire circuit92.
• FIG. 5 illustrates another example embodiment of an improved secure identification band containing an ink or dye that is released by tampering. As shown inFIG. 5, theexample band90 comprises asubstrate91, acircuit92, a fastener withparts93 and94, adjustingholes95, andcontainer98 containing an ink or dye that is released when theband90 is torn, cut, or overly stretched. The ink-releasing means comprises an ink-filledspace98 in theband90 and an empty space in theband90 that is adjacent to the ink-filledspace98. When theband90 is overly stretched, twisted, torn or cut, the wall ruptures between the ink-filledspace98 and the adjacent empty space, thereby leaking ink into the empty space and visibly discoloring theband90. Alternatively, the wall ruptures between the ink-filledspace98 and the exterior surface of theband90. In addition, the ink or dye may contain a chemical aerosol or scent perceivable by a machine (e.g., electronic chemical detector) or an animal, such as a dog or a human.
• Alternatively, the identification band may be attached by means similar to a belt buckle, as previously discussed. For example, the buckle may be mounted to one end of thesubstrate91 and which when opened, allows free movement of the other end of the substrate though the buckle so that the band be adjustably fitted to the wearer. The buckle design also permits removal of the identification band from the wearer for reuse. A dye tack in communication with the buckle releases dye when the buckle or dye-tack is subjected to tampering. The dye or ink tack may be similar to those used for retail theft deterrence, has locking parts that can be removed intact only with a special tool, and is attached in such a manner that a portion of the dye tack closes over or around a portion of the closed buckle. When an unauthorized attempt is made to open the buckle or to remove the dye tack from the identification band, a dye-filled vial in the dye tack is broken, thereby leaking dye out and discoloring identification band or marking the skin of the person who is tampering with the buckle or dye tack. Again, an aerosol chemical or scent may be contained in the dye tack, which is detectable to an animal, human, or machine.
• FIG. 6 illustrates still another example embodiment of animproved identification band700 that, when attached, creates an identifying pattern in both visible and electronic forms. As shown inFIG. 6, the example improvedidentification band700 comprises asubstrate705 having acircuit710 and anidentification area715 with a shaded background into which conductor pairs720 from thecircuit710 terminate withconnections725. To attach theidentification band700, thefirst end730 is placed over thesecond end735, and holes740 are punched through, or embossed into,area715 with the aid of alignment marks735, thereby stitching together the overlapped ends, forming a visible pattern, and connecting and/or disconnecting specific pairs or random combinations ofconductors720 to form an electrical circuit of connected and/or disconnected pairs, which in turn set logic state inputs to thecircuit710 corresponding to the pattern. As with any of the embodiments, encoding the identity of a person, object or entity includes forming a unique pattern of one or more of an arrangement of figures, symbols or characters, a bar code, or a drawing corresponding to that identity. Forming a visible identification of the person, object or entity may include one or more of the following steps: forming an embossment, which embossment may include coloring with an ink; activating colorless material in the substrate to become colored; activating colorless adhesive and catalyst in the substrate to become colored when mixed or cured; and using a material or adhesive and catalyst that is sensitive to applied pressure or heat so as to make a visible pattern. Optionally, the embossed pattern may be visible only because of its contours. Applying the identifying pattern to the mechanical securement device includes one or more of mechanically, electrically, or thermally engraving, cutting, impressing, or embossing the pattern. In an example of the use of such aband700, a number corresponding to a security clearance level of the wearer, such as the number “3”, or an official seal can be applied at the time of attachment. Thus, a visible indication of that clearance, and an electronic indication based on the formed electrical circuit and transmitted by thecircuit710, are available for controlling access to a secure area or to classified information.
• The data stored iii the identification band may include any kind of information. For instance, the data may comprise identity data, financial transaction data, or medical data. Any of the data may be encrypted prior to the data being stored in the identification band. As another example, bands with the same pattern and related information can be attached to a person and to a set of baggage, the pattern identifying both the person and an airline flight, so that only persons and baggage identified for that flight will be allowed on the aircraft, and the person can only claim baggage having bands with that same pattern.
• An alternative to any of the embodiments described in this disclosure is to associate more than one identity with an identification band. For example, a first identifying pattern and a second identifying pattern may be stored or contained on the identification band. The first and second identifying patterns may manifest in different ways. As an example, the first identifying pattern forms a visible first identification, while the second identifying pattern forms electrical data in a data storage device in the identification band. Moreover, the first and second identifying patterns may be used to identify the same or different people. For instance, the first identifying pattern may be associated with the person who is distributing or attaching the identification band and the second identifying pattern may be associated with the wearer of the identification band.
• A battery or power source may be provided to power a memory, logic, circuit, or other function of the identification band essential to its useful operation. In order to safeguard the security of information stored in the identification band in any of the embodiments described, the identification band may have a battery that runs out of power at or within a predetermined time period or on a certain calendar date/time, or a circuit that stops its operation or erases the stored information at or within a predetermined time period or on a certain calendar date/time. To make the battery life run out, the circuit may impose a fixed load on the battery, a programmable constant load on the battery, or upon the expiration of a timer, impose a load on the battery. Alternatively, the identification band may have a lock mode for data stored in a data storage device such as a memory such that the data is not accessible without the proper equipment, password, and/or matching of identifying data with the user trying to gain access to the information.
• FIG. 7 illustrates an example embodiment of an improved identification band that stores biometric information. As shown inFIG. 7, theimproved band1000 comprises asubstrate1005 having acircuit1010, a fastener withparts1015 and1020, adjustingholes1025, adata storage device1030 that is preferably a nonvolatile memory, and a jack orelectrical contacts1035 for receiving biometric information to be stored in thedata storage device1030. For example and as with any embodiment described in this disclosure that may have a data storage device, thedata storage device1030 may be a random access memory (RAM), read only memory (ROM), programmable read only memory (PROM), electrically erasable PROM (EEPROM), organic PROM, organic RAM, anti-fuse PROM, ultraviolet light erasable PROM (UVPROM), fixed disk media, flexible disk media, flash memory, tape, or any other storage retrieval means, or any combination of these volatile and non-volatile memory means. The data storage device or memory can include any of the data storage devices or memories described in this disclosure or known to those of skill in the art of such devices. Also, as with any embodiment described in this disclosure, the data storage device or memory may further permit reading-only, reading and writing, or writing only.
• Further, as with any embodiment, the data storage device may store a link or address to information stored in an external database. This external database, which may be resident on an external system such as a computer, host system, or wireless network, and can preferably be accessed through the Internet. In such a case, the identification appliance transmits the link or address to the information in the database, whereupon receipt, the receiving device accesses the database and retrieves the actual information. This allows the data storage device to store less information locally, which can make the identification appliance smaller and thinner, while not sacrificing the amount of information being transferred. As an example, the database may store the entire medical history of the authorized bearer of the identification appliance, which medical history may be stored on the hospital's computer and which the hospital may update. Thus, by providing a pointer or link to the medical history, the information will be the most recent version and other people may add to, delete from, or otherwise modify the information, if desired. In another example, the database may store the digitized fingerprint data of the authorized bearer of the identification appliance, which can require a large amount of storage space that cannot be readily put onto the identification appliance.
• As an example of the use of the improved band shown inFIG. 7, at the time of attachment of theband1000 to awearer1040, thewearer1040 is scanned by a charge-coupleddevice camera1045 communicating with anencoder1050 that converts the image signal to encoded image data and transmits that data through acable1055, aremovable plug1060 inserted intojack1035, and into thedata storage device1030. After attachment of theband1000 and storage of the image data therein, theplug1060 is detached from thejack1035 and thewearer1040 is free to move around. To later ascertain or verify the identity of thewearer1040, the image data is transmitted by thecircuit1010 to areader1065, such as a RFID reader, decoded and rendered into aviewable image1070, and then compared with the actual appearance of thewearer1040.
• Optionally, biological characteristics of thewearer1040 may be stored in theband1000 by transferring encoded biometric data to thedata storage device1030 on theband1000 by electric current, electric or magnetic fields, or electromagnetic waves. For example, biometric data may include any images of or data about the wearer's fingerprints, retina, iris, face, DNA, genetic data such as a portion of the wearer's genome sequence or genes, or a time domain or frequency domain response of the wearer's voice, or a biochemical assay of the wearer's scent, blood, or breath. In other applications, the biometric data may be related to a person's signature, signature plus handwriting dynamics, iris, retina, face recognition, voiceprint, voiceprint and voice stress, fingerprint, other skin pattern, chemical signature (e.g., smell, blood, sweat), DNA, genetic data, or some electric, magnetic, acoustic, or other biometric characteristic. Alternatively, the biometric sensor may provide data about the wearer for purposes other than for identification. For instance, the biometric sensor may be incorporated into the identification appliance to monitor or detect the wearer's pulse rate, heart electrical signals, blood pressure, insulin levels, temperature and the like, where such biometric data may be transmitted to other devices (such as monitoring computers at a hospital) constantly, intermittantly, or upon alert conditions. The biometric sensor may be coupled to a data storage device, communication circuit, optical data display, or other components of the identification band. The biometric data may be encoded, converted into a data format according to a predetermined data template, and stored in a data storage device on the identification appliance. To verify the identity of the wearer of the identification appliance, any known method of comparing the stored biometric data and the wearer's biometric data may be used. For example, one method may be to determine the probability of a match. As an example of such a method, an XOR (“exclusive or”) operation can be performed on the stored biometric data and the wearer's current biometric data to produce a third data set indicating those items in the first and second data sets that are not identical. A higher number of non-identical items will indicate a higher probability that the wearer is not the person whose encoded biometric data is stored in the identification band, and that number can also be compared to threshold numbers above which there are various predetermined levels of such probability (e.g. high, intermediate, or low). In accordance with corresponding biological features, data items can also be weighted in proportion to their effects on the overall certainty of identity verification. For instance, fingerprint data may be given higher weight than iris data. The results of the data comparison can also be displayed in a manner suitable for human judgment of probability.
• FIG. 8 illustrates another example embodiment of animproved identification band1200 in which biometric information and alphanumeric information are stored. As shown inFIG. 8, theimproved band1200 comprises asubstrate1205 having anRFID circuit1210, a fastener withparts1215 and1120, adjustingholes1225, adata storage device1230 that is preferably a nonvolatile memory, and ajack1235 for receiving encoded information to be stored in thedata storage device1230. A first set of receptacles withinjack1235 communicates with a first area in thedata storage device1230 that is reserved for biometric information, and a second set of receptacles communicates with a second area in thedata storage device1230 that is reserved for alphanumeric information. Thejack1235 may be configured to accept only one plug, or more than one plug, at a time.
• As an example of the use of theimproved band1200 shown inFIG. 8, at the time of attachment of theband1200 to awearer1240, thewearer1240 is scanned by a charge-coupleddevice camera1245 communicating with anencoder1250 that converts the image signal to encoded image data and transmits that data through afirst cable1255, a firstremovable plug1260 havingpins1262 that insert into the first set of receptacles withinjack1235, and into the area of thedata storage device1230 reserved for biometric information. Subsequently, thewearer1240 enters a personal identification number (“PIN”)1265 shown inFIG. 8 as “5612” into keypad-encoder1270 that converts the PIN sequence1265 to encoded alphanumeric data and transmits that data through asecond cable1275, a secondremovable plug1280 havingpins1282 that insert into the second set of receptacles withinjack1235, and into the area of thedata storage device1230 reserved for alphanumeric information. After attachment of theband1200 to thewearer1240, storage of the image and PIN data therein, and removal ofplugs1260 and1280 from thejack1235, the wearer is free to move around. To later ascertain or verify the identity of the wearer, the image and PIN data are transmitted by thecircuit1210 to areader1285 such as a RFID reader, decoded and rendered into a viewable image and alphanumeric data onvideo screen1290. The person, machine, or authorized agency making the verification can then compare the viewed image with the actual appearance of the wearer, and, for additional security, compare the viewed PIN to a PIN communicated by the wearer. Optionally, a signal may indicate whether the PINs matched. Alternatively to an electrical connection to a jack, an electromagnetically coupled circuit such as those used in a RFID tag may be used to transfer data. This method requires no physical contact with the circuitry of the identification band.
• FIG. 9 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification band, which stores biometric and alphanumeric information and whose circuit functions are activated when the band is attached or deactivated when the band is unfastened, torn, cut, or overly stretched. As shown inFIG. 9, theimproved band1400 comprises asubstrate1405 having acircuit1410, an electrically conductive fastener withparts1415 and1420, adjustingholes1425, adata storage device1430 that is preferably a nonvolatile memory in thecircuit1410 and ajack1435 for receiving encoded biometric and alphanumeric information to be stored in thedata storage device1430. Alternatively, the data may be programmed into the data storage device ofFIGS. 7-9 by electromagnetic coupling, such as through RF waves.Conductors1440 and1445 connect thecircuit1410 to eachfastener part1415 and1420. When the fastener closes, theparts1415 and1420 of the fastener come into contact, thereby closing the circuit through theconductors1440 and1445, enabling circuit functions, and making the stored data available for transmission by thecircuit1410. When theband1400 is unfastened, or is torn, cut, or overly stretched andconductor1440 or1445 breaks, the circuit opens and disables any or all circuit functions. Optionally, the opening of the circuit may cause the circuit to alter or destroy any data stored inmemory1430. If theband1400 is reattached, again closing the circuit through theconductors1440 and1445 and enabling circuit functions, the originally-stored data, having been altered, is no longer available for transmission.
• FIG. 10 is a representative illustration of an example method of using an improved identification band for passenger ticketing and boarding, such as at an airport, boat dock, train station, bus station and the like. As shown inFIG. 10, when apassenger1510 checks in at a ticket counter,ticket information1520 and, for example, an image of thepassenger1510 from a charge-coupleddevice camera1530 and/or other identifying data are stored in a data storage device that is preferably a nonvolatile memory on theband1540. Theband1540 is then attached to thewrist1550 of thepassenger1510. Preferably, theband1540 is the type in which the stored data is altered or destroyed when the band detects any tampering or detachment of the band. Theband1540 serves as a passenger ticket and boarding pass, and when thepassenger1510 is about to board, the stored data in the data storage device on theband1540 on thewrist1550 may be transmitted to areader1560, decoded and verified either automatically or by a human viewing data on avideo screen1570 so that the identity and proper ticketing ofpassenger1510 can be verified.
• FIG. 11 is a representative illustration of an example method of using an improved identification band for passenger baggage tagging and claiming. At departure,identification bands1610 are prepared with stored encoded passenger image or other identifying data and ticket information, one of which is attached to the passenger'swrist1620 as a baggage claim receipt and the rest of which are attached to the passenger'sbaggage items1630 as baggage tags. At the baggage claim in the destination terminal, the stored data in theidentification bands1610 on thewrist1620 and on thebaggage items1630 are transmitted to areader1640, decoded and verified automatically or by a human viewing data on avideo screen1650, so that thebaggage items1630 can be properly claimed by matching thebands1610 to each other.
• FIG. 12 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, which has printed biometric data. The example identification appliance has anelongate band10, aband fastener12, and amating band fastener14 that mates with theband fastener12. The identification appliance can have printedinformation16 and aportrait18 orfingerprint20.
• FIG. 13 is a representative illustration of another example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with printed biometric data. The example identification appliance has an elongate band, aband fastener26, and amating band fastener28 that mates with theband fastener26. The elongate band may comprise atop laminate22 and abottom laminate24. Silicon and/or printedcircuitry components30 may be sandwiched between thelaminates22,24. The identification appliance may have printedbiometric information32 on any of its surfaces.
• FIG. 14 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with a biometric sensor. The example identification appliance has anelongate band34, aband fastener36, and amating band fastener38 that mates with theband fastener36. As with any of the embodiments described in this disclosure, silicon and/or printedcircuitry components40 may be embedded, printed, or otherwise deposited in or on theelongate band34. The identification appliance may include abiometric sensor42. Thebiometric sensor42 may scan or otherwise obtain a person's fingerprint, iris, retina, or other identifying biometric feature and provide the biometric information to thecircuitry40. An example of such a biometric sensor built from an optical device is as follows. The optical device may include a layered structure containing a light emitting device(s) and semi-transparent light sensing devices for measuring light reflection of an object placed above the layered device. By using these optical devices, the reflective signature of a fingerprint could be illuminated, measured and recorded. The optical device may be a single device that senses the presence or absence of light wavelengths, the intensity of light wavelengths, or a time-varying optical signal carrying information. Alternatively, the optical device may comprise a plurality of sensing devices including a linear or two-dimensional array of sensors. The optical device may include a non-visible (i.e. infra-red or ultra-violet) optical input, optical output, or power conversion element. As with any of the described embodiments, the biometric sensor may be an optical sensor, a heat sensor, a pressure sensor, a humidity sensor, a chemical sensor, an electromagnetic sensor, or an acoustic sensor; the biometric sensor may be a plurality of devices that may be formed into a matrix (row/column addressable) or other spatially distributed pattern of elements. Thecircuitry40 preferably includes other circuits, such as antenna circuitry, signal generator circuitry, communication circuitry, programmable encoder circuitry and interconnection circuitry, and is adapted to control and interact with thebiometric sensor42. The circuitry for thebiometric sensor42 may be made of silicon, organic materials, or other thin materials. Further,biometric information44 may be printed on theband34. Thecircuitry40 may then compare the scanned biometric data with stored biometric data to determine their correlation. The identification appliance, as with any of the embodiments described in this disclosure, may include an audio, visual, or sensory (e.g., vibrating) device to indicate whether a correlation or match exists. As with any embodiment described in this disclosure, an optional antenna, electronic data storage device or memory, battery or power source, display, and/or printed biometric or alphanumeric information may be included as well.
• FIG. 15 is a representative illustration of another example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, which has a biometric sensor and a wireless communication circuit such as a RFID circuit. The wireless communication circuit may incorporate any of the features, such as Bluetooth compatibility, described in concurrently filed U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, titled “Wearable Identification Appliance That Communicates With A Wireless Communications Network Such As Bluetooth,” the entirety of which application is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. The example identification appliance has anelongate band46, aband fastener48, amating band fastener50 that mates with theband fastener48, silicon and/or printedcircuitry components56 that may be embedded or printed or otherwise deposited in or on theelongate band46, acommunication antenna52 such as a RFID antenna that may be embedded or attached to theband46, abiometric sensor54, and printedbiometric information58 printed on theband46. Thebiometric sensor54, as with any of the embodiments in this disclosure, may scan a person's fingerprint, iris, retina, voice, or other identifying biometric feature. Of course, there may be more than one biometric sensor if desired. Thebiometric sensor54 may be disposed in theelongate band46, a securement structure used to fasten the identification band to a person, or both.
• FIG. 16 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, which has a biometric sensor, a wireless communication circuit such as a RFID circuit, and an electronic memory or data storage device. The example identification appliance has anelongate band60, aband fastener62, amating band fastener64 that mates with theband fastener62, silicon and/or printedcircuitry components74 that may be embedded or printed or otherwise deposited in or on theelongate band60, acommunication antenna68 such as a RFID antenna that may be embedded or attached to theband60, abiometric sensor70, anelectronic memory72, and printedbiometric information66 printed on theband60. Thecircuitry74 preferably includes other circuits, such as antenna circuitry, signal generator circuitry, communication circuitry, programmable encoder circuitry and interconnection circuitry, and is adapted to control and interact with thebiometric sensor70 and electronic memory ordata storage device72. As with any embodiment described in this disclosure, thedata storage device72 may be any kind of memory or data storage device. Thebiometric sensor70 may scan a person's fingerprint, iris, retina, voice, or other identifying biometric feature. Of course, there may be more than one biometric sensor if desired. Thecircuitry74 may then compare the scanned biometric data with biometric data stored in thedata storage device72 to see if they match. The identification appliance may include an audio, visual, or sensory (e.g., vibrating) device to display the biometric data and/or to indicate whether a match exists, which device may optionally communicate the data remotely to a remote sensor or display device; such a display can be any of the displays described in this disclosure or known to those of skill in the art of displays.
• FIG. 17 is a representative illustration of yet another example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with abiometric sensor82 anddisplay88. The identification appliance ofFIG. 17 is similar to that ofFIG. 16, except thatFIG. 17 specifically illustrates adisplay88. The example identification appliance has anelongate band76, aband fastener78, amating band fastener80 that mates with theband fastener78, acommunication antenna86 such as a RFID antenna that may be embedded or attached to theband76, and abiometric sensor82. The identification appliance has silicon and/or printedcircuitry components84 that may be embedded, printed, or otherwise disposed in or on theelongate band76 or its various layers. Thebiometric sensor82 may sense or scan a person's fingerprint, iris, retina, voice, or other identifying biometric feature. Thecircuitry84 may then compare the scanned biometric data with biometric data stored in the data storage device to determine if they match. Thedisplay88 may display the biometric or other data and/or indicate whether a match exists in a manner perceptible to a person, such as by an audible, visual, or sensory (e.g., vibrating) device. An optional antenna, electronic data storage device or memory, acoustic sensor, chemical sensor, optical sensor, heat sensor, pressure sensor, humidity sensor, electromagnetic sensor, flexible keypad, battery or power source, and/or printed biometric or alphanumeric information may be included as well. As with any of the embodiments described in this disclosure, these optional devices and sensors may be disposed in the elongate band, a securement structure used to fasten the identification band to a person, or both.
• FIG. 18 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with photovoltaic cells. The example identification appliance has anelongate band100, aband fastener102, amating band fastener104 that mates with theband fastener102, silicon and/or printedcircuitry components106 that may be embedded or printed or otherwise deposited in or on theelongate band100, and one or morephotovoltaic cells108. Thephotovoltaic cells108 provide power, and optionally information such as a data signal from an optical source, to thecircuitry106. To generate photoelectric power, a photodiode (formed of silicon, amorphous silicon, or organic material) or photodiode array may be attached to or formed on the identification band. The photodiode could generate electric power to power the circuitry on the band, or recharge a battery attached to or formed in or on the band. The photodiode can also serve as a signal input transducer for information input to the identification band, which information may be transmitted to the identification band by a light source modulated by the information content. As with any embodiment described in this disclosure, an optional antenna, electronic data storage device or memory, biometric sensor, acoustic sensor, chemical sensor, optical sensor, heat sensor, pressure sensor, humidity sensor, electromagnetic sensor, flexible keypad, battery or power source, display, and/or printed biometric or alphanumeric information may be included as well.
• FIG. 19 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with embedded circuitry and a microstrip or patch antenna. The example identification appliance has anelongate band110, aband fastener112, amating band fastener114 that mates with theband fastener112, silicon and/or printedcircuitry components118 that may be embedded or printed or otherwise deposited in or on theelongate band110, printedbiometric information116, and a microstrip orpatch antenna120. A conductor orconductors119 may span the length of theband110 and be connected to thecircuit118, which conductors will break if the band is tampered with and optionally inform thecircuit118. Themicrostrip antenna120 may be any of those described in co-pending patent application filed on Mar. 5, 2002, titled “Microstrip Antenna for Identification Appliance”, U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, the entirety of which application is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes. Such a microstrip antenna provides certain advantages, such as directing more of the radiating energy away from the wearer to improve the transmission range of the identification appliance and to reduce directing energy toward the wearer for health reasons. The microstrip antenna may be added or deleted from any of the embodiments described in this disclosure.
• FIG. 20 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, which performs signal processing and computation and has an electronic data storage device or memory. The example identification appliance has anelongate band122, aband fastener124, amating band fastener126 that mates with theband fastener124, silicon and/or printedcircuitry components132 that may be embedded or printed or otherwise deposited in or on theelongate band122, printedbiometric information128, anantenna130 and an electronic data storage device ormemory134. Thecircuitry132 may include signal transmission circuitry, signal reception circuitry, data processing circuitry and computation circuitry, as desired. In this example, thecircuitry132,data storage device134 andantenna130 are sandwiched between the inner substrate of thebody122 and the structure carrying the printedinformation128.
• FIG. 21 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with one or morechemical sensors144. The example identification appliance has anelongate band136, aband fastener138, amating band fastener140 that mates with theband fastener138, silicon and/or printedcircuitry components142 that may be embedded or printed or otherwise deposited in or on theelongate band136, and anantenna143. Further, an optional antenna, electronic data storage device or memory, biometric sensor, acoustic sensor, optical sensor, heat sensor, pressure sensor, humidity sensor, electromagnetic sensor, flexible keypad, battery or power source, display, and/or printed biometric or alphanumeric information may be included. The chemical sensor may be any kind of chemical sensor. For example, it may sense physiological attributes of a person such as temperature, sweat content and pheromones.
• FIG. 22 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with anacoustic transducer164. Of course, a plurality of acoustic transducers may be provided, if desired. The acoustic sensors may comprise audio transducers for audio input or output. An audio signal such as speech from the wearer may be transduced and processed by known techniques and transmitted by the communication circuit in the identification appliance to a remote listener. Similarly, an audio signal may be received by the identification appliance from a remote transmitter by wireless communication, and processed and transduced to be audible to the wearer. The identification appliance also may have known algorithms to process speech recognition or output synthesized speech. Theacoustic sensor164 may comprise a piezoelectric transducer that detects acoustic waves. Other types of acoustic sensors may also be used. The acoustic information may be processed by acircuit162, which may include any known voice activation or speech recognition algorithms. Further, the appliance may allow users to communicate two-way with remote units or have circuitry or algorithms to derive biometric data (such as a user's unique identifying speech patterns) from the user's speech. The example identification appliance has anelongate band154, aband fastener156, amating band fastener158 that mates with theband fastener156, silicon and/or printedcircuitry components162 that may be embedded or printed or otherwise deposited in or on theelongate band154, and printedbiometric information160. Further, an optional antenna, electronic data storage device or memory, biometric sensor, chemical sensor, optical sensor, flexible keypad, battery or power source, and/or display may be included as well.
• FIG. 23 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with electro-optical or opto-electronic components172. The example identification appliance has anelongate band166, aband fastener168, amating band fastener170 that mates with theband fastener168, and silicon and/or printedcircuitry components174 that may be embedded or printed or otherwise deposited in or on theelongate band166. Thecircuit174 may control signals to or process signals from the electro-optical components172. For example, the electro-optical components172 may perform various functions such as communicating optically with an external or internal device, signaling (e.g., by light from a light emitting diode), indicating (e.g., by emitting light or varying light reflectances), displaying (e.g., of alphanumeric or image data by pre-formed indicators or matrix of indicators), sensing (e.g., of levels of light), and converting power (e.g., as a photovoltaic cell). As a further example, the electro-optical components172 may comprise light emitting diodes (LEDs) that can be polymeric or organic LEDs as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,973,598. If the electro-optical components172 perform an optical communication function, they may include optical fibers, light sources and/or light detectors such as photodetectors. If desired, the electro-optical components172 may act as an electro-optical display device by including liquid crystal displays, electrophoretic displays, gas discharge displays and electromechanical displays. If desired, the electro-optical components172 may include an electro-optical input device by including photodiodes, photoresistors, photomultiplier tubes and other input devices. The electro-optical components172 may be of silicon or other materials, while some electro-optical components172 may be fabricated partially or predominantly of organic compounds. They may be inflexible and attached on the identification appliance. Alternatively, they may be flexible and attached to or printed on the identification band. The electronic, electro-optical and visual components may be printed or otherwise deposited on the identification appliance's elongate structure (e.g.,91 inFIG. 2, 10 inFIG. 12).
• FIG. 24 is a representative illustration of yet another example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with anoptical sensor198. The example identification appliance has anelongate band188, aband fastener190, amating band fastener192 that mates with theband fastener190, printedinformation194, and silicon and/or printedcircuitry components196 that may be embedded or printed or otherwise deposited in or on theelongate band188. Thecircuit196 may control theoptical sensor198. For example, theoptical sensor198 may perform optical communication with an external or internal device. Theoptical sensor198 may comprise a light detector such as a photodetector, or a charge coupled device to capture images of, for example, a person's face, fingerprint, iris, or retina.
• FIG. 25 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with aflexible keypad206. The example identification appliance has anelongate band200, aband fastener202, amating band fastener204 that mates with theband fastener202, silicon and/or printedcircuitry components208 that may be embedded or printed or otherwise deposited in or on theelongate band200, and anantenna210. Thecircuit208 may control thekeypad206. Of course, thekeypad206 may comprise a full typewriter keyboard, a partial keyboard, a single key, or a plurality of custom function keys. Thekeypad206 permits users to input data into thecircuit208 or an optional data storage device. The keypad may be based on symbolic or alpha-numeric data.
• FIGS. 26A and 26B are representative illustrations of an example method of embedding silicon and/or printed circuitry, or other components, in an identification appliance such as an identification band. Atop laminate212 and abottom laminate214 may be adhered to each other. As shown byreference numeral218, silicon and/or printedcircuitry216 and other components may be formed or printed on either the top orbottom laminates212,214, or both laminates, and additional components may be sandwiched between the top andbottom laminates212,214. A manufacturing assembly is illustrated inFIG. 26B. Thebottom laminate material214 is fed at220 and amachine224 adherescircuitry216 and other components to thebottom laminate214. Thetop laminate material214 is fed atreference numeral222 and joined to thebottom laminate218 by laminatingmachine226. Acutting device228 separates the joined material into separate identification appliances. Of course, in any of the manufacturing processes described in this disclosure, other manufacturing steps known to those of skill in the art of making identification appliances may be used as desired.
• FIGS. 27A and 27B are representative illustrations of an example method of implementing printed circuitry in an identification appliance such as an identification band. The body material is fed at230 and amachine232 prints or deposits circuitry and other components onto the body material. The machine may be an ink jet printing device, stencil, or any other method of imprinting inks or materials on a substrate. Acutting device234 separates the body material into separate identification appliances. InFIG. 27B, a bottom laminate material is fed at238 and amachine236 prints or otherwise deposits circuitry and other components onto the bottom laminate. The top laminate material is fed atreference numeral240 and joined to the bottom laminate by laminatingmachine242. Acutting device244 separates the joined material into separate identification appliances. Of course, other manufacturing processes known to those of skill in the art of making identification appliances may also be used as desired.
• FIG. 28 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with a flexible battery orpower source258. In this particular example, the identification appliance has an elongate band formed out of atop laminate246 and abottom laminate248. Aband fastener252 mates with anotherband fastener256. Silicon and/or printedcircuitry components260 also may be embedded or printed or otherwise deposited in or between the laminated band. Theflexible battery258 powers thecircuit260 as well as any other component on the identification appliance requiring power. Such other components may include, for example, an electronic data storage device or memory, biometric sensor, acoustic sensor, chemical sensor, optical sensor, flexible keypad and display. Preferably, thebattery258 is thin and flexible. Thebattery258 may provide primary or auxiliary power for electronic circuits. Optionally, thebattery258 may include a photovoltaic component so that the battery is charged or recharged by ambient light; the photovoltaic cells and recharging circuitry can be formed out of inorganic or organic materials. Thebattery258 may be replaceable or not. Thebattery258 may be a flexible polymer battery imprinted on or constructed on the identification appliance substrate, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,973,598. Thebattery258 may be activated when the identification appliance is fastened to its object, or activated by the reception of an optical signal or an electromagnetic signal. An identification appliance with abattery258 may be activated upon proper authorization or the start of service.
• FIG. 29 is a representative illustration of another example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, with a “button”style battery269. The example identification appliance has anelongate band261, aband fastener262, amating band fastener263 that mates with theband fastener262, silicon and/or printedcircuitry components264 that may be embedded or printed or otherwise deposited in or on theelongate band261, and printedinformation265. Thebattery269 is a button-style battery in this example embodiment. Thebattery269 powers thecircuit264 as well as any other component on the identification appliance requiring power. Such other components may include, for example, an electronic data storage device or memory, biometric sensor, acoustic sensor, chemical sensor, optical sensor, flexible keypad and display. Preferably, thebattery269 is small and thin. Thebattery269 may provide primary or auxiliary power for electronic circuits. Thebattery269 is replaceable.
• Any of the identification appliance embodiments described in this disclosure may be completely disposable, partially disposable, or reusuable. The disposable identification appliance may incorporate any of the functions described in this disclosure, where the fastening means is not re-usable and the functionality of the identification appliance is destroyed after its use. The identification appliance may have a disposable section (for example, the band) and a re-usable section (for example, the circuit). The identification appliance also may be made water resistant, waterproof, and/or resistant to certain solvents or chemicals used in the area of its application. If disposable, the band or body is preferably made of an inexpensive material such as paper, plastic, or other laminate material. For example,FIG. 30 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance, such as an identification band, that is partially disposable. An example of a partially disposable identification band is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/033,832, which is titled “Identification Device Having Reusable Transponder” and is published as PCT US98/04098. The identification appliance comprises adisposable band284 and a non-disposable “hub”282 of circuitry, sensors and other circuit components. Theband284 is fastened by inserting oneend288 of the band to thenon-disposable hub282, which attachment is made more secure by afastener286, and by inserting theother end290 of the band to thenon-disposable hub282, which attachment is made more secure by afastener286. When desired, thedisposable band284 may be unfastened from thenon-disposable hub282 and disposed. A replacement band may be fastened to thenon-disposable hub282. If the replacement band is for a different user, any data stored in thenon-disposable hub282 may be erased and updated.
• FIG. 31 is a representative illustration of yet another example embodiment of an improved identification appliance that is partially disposable. The identification appliance comprises a disposable flexible plastic orrubber tube292, which acts as a band and houses an insertable andreusable circuit portion294. Thecircuit portion294 may include any kind of circuits such as communication circuitry and biometric circuitry.
• FIG. 32 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved identification appliance that is reusable. This example identification appliance comprises anon-disposable band298, which may be decorative to resemble jewelry or a watch. In or on theband298 is placed non-disposable circuitry, sensors andcomponents296. Anoptional lock mechanism300 may be provided to secure the identification appliance to a wearer and to allow the wearer to adjust its size. The lock mechanism may be activated or inactivated either by the wearer or alternatively by the person or agency responsible for providing the security function performed by the identification appliance. The locking may be mechanical or electromechanical. The locking or unlocking function may be performed by remote communication or control, if desired.
• FIGS. 33A, 33B and33C are representative illustrations of example embodiments of a biometric reader/verifier of identification appliances. Referring toFIG. 33A, abiometric sensor302 is mounted on agrip306. Thebiometric sensor302 may be any of the biometric sensors known to those of skill in the art of biometrics and those described in this disclosure. Aninterrogator308 communicates, such as by radio frequency, to the identification appliance in order to obtain the biometric data stored in the appliance. An optional indicator oralarm system304 may provide an audible, visible, or other perceptible indication as to, for example, whether the biometric data obtained by the biometric reader/verifier matches the biometric data stored in an identification appliance. Turning toFIG. 33B, thegrip306 may have abiometric sensor302 andindicator304 built into the handle of the grip.FIG. 33C is a representative illustration of a wearer of an identification appliance using an example embodiment of a reader/verifier. The user grasps thegrip306, thereby positioning theidentification appliance307 within range of theinterrogator308. Theinterrogator308 communicates, such as by radio frequency, with theidentification appliance307 in order to obtain the biometric data and/or other data stored in the appliance.
• FIGS. 34A, 34B and34C are representative illustrations of example applications of a biometric identification appliance reader/verifier. In particular,FIG. 34A is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of a biometric turnstile system. The turnstile system allows authorized personnel to pass between theturnstile arm328 and apost319.Device318 may emit beams322 that are used to detect whether anyone is at the turnstile arm, or trying to go under theturnstile arm328. Thedevice318 may include a reader/verifier of identification appliances. When a person wearing an identification appliance approaches theturnstile arm328, the beams322 detect the person and read identifying information, such as biometric data, from the identification appliance. If the identifying information gives the wearer the privilege or authority to pass, theturnstile arm328 may be rotated out of the way to permit the wearer to pass. If, however, the wearer lacks the privilege to pass, an optionalvisible alarm system320 and/oraudible alarm system332 may indicate that an unauthorized person is present.
• FIG. 34B is a representative illustration of the details of an alternative biometric turnstile arm that may be used inFIG. 34A. The turnstile arm comprises abiometric sensor312, agrip314 with an optional built-in biometric sensor and aninterrogator316. The turnstile arm has anaxis330 of rotation. Thebiometric sensor312 may be any of the biometric sensors known to those of skill in the art of biometrics and those described in this disclosure. Theinterrogator316 communicates, such as by radio frequency, to the identification appliance in order to obtain identifying biometric data stored in the appliance. An optional indicator or alarm system may provide an audible, visible, or other perceptible indication as to, for example, whether the biometric data obtained by thebiometric sensor312 matches the stored biometric data obtained from the identification appliance.
• FIG. 34C is a representative illustration of another example embodiment of an biometric gate. Aturnstile326 prevents people from entering a restricted area, such as a secure area or an amusement park. The turnstile includes acurved interrogator324, which in the alternative, may have any suitable shape for reading a person's identification appliance. In the example illustrated inFIG. 34C, a person wanting to gain access inserts his identification appliance, such as an identification wristband, into the vicinity of theinterrogator324. Theinterrogator324 communicates, such as by radio frequency, to the identification appliance in order to obtain identifying biometric data stored in the appliance. The turnstile may include anbiometric sensor325 that obtains the person's biometric data (e.g., fingerprint, iris, retina scan). Theinterrogator324 compares the person's biometric data from thebiometric sensor325 and compares the data to the biometric data obtained from the identification appliance. An optional indicator or alarm system may provide an audible, visible, or other perceptible indication as to whether there is a match or non-match of biometric data.
• FIG. 35 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved secure identification appliance, such as an identification band, with electronic tamper detection. The example identification appliance has anelongate body342, a first patch of a plurality ofconductive contacts344, a second patch of a plurality ofconductive contacts346 and asecuring device347. When the securingdevice347 is closed (to fasten the identification appliance to a wearer), a physical and electrical contact is formed betweencontacts344 and346. The groups ofcontacts344,346 may be formed in patterns such that when the identification appliance is secured bydevice347, the resulting pattern of closed electrical contacts may be random or unpredictable.Circuitry348 that may be embedded, printed, deposited, or otherwise placed in or on theband342 monitors whether the electrical contact is open or closed. If a closed electrical contact is opened, thecircuit348 determines that the identification appliance has been tampered with or removed. Optionally, the identification appliance may have an indicator to indicate the status of the identification appliance.
• FIG. 36 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of an improved secure identification appliance, such as an identification band, with electronic tamper detection using conductive or non-conductive glue. The example identification appliance comprises anelongate body358, a first patch of a plurality ofconductive contacts360, and a second patch of a plurality ofconductive contacts362 that mates with the first patch ofcontacts360 to form a closed electrical circuit when theband358 is closed.Circuitry364, which may be embedded, printed, deposited, or otherwise placed in or on theband358 monitors whether the electrical circuits are open or closed. Anadhesive gel366 may be used to close or fasten the ends of theband358 together. The adhesive366 may be conductive or nonconductive. As with the embodiment ofFIG. 35, the groups of contacts may be closed in a random or unpredictable pattern.
• FIG. 37 is a representative illustration of an example embodiment of anairport security system500 that uses an improved secure identification appliance, such as an identification band. A user orpassenger502 obtains anidentification appliance504, such as a wristband, from an authorized person or agency, such as the ticket counter. When thepassenger502 checks in baggage at the ticket counter or curbside check-in506, an identification band (“bag band”)508 is put on the baggage. Thebag band508 identifies the baggage and its owner so that when thepassenger502 goes to thebaggage claim510 to claim the baggage, corresponding data in thebag band508 and passenger'sidentification appliance504 must match. One way to determine whether there is a match is to use aband reader512. Theband reader512 reads both thebag band508 and passenger'sidentification appliance504 and determines whether there is a match and optionally, whether there is any evidence of tampering of either. When thepassenger502 goes to theairline gate terminal514, there may be another optional band reader to verify the identity of thepassenger502. Likewise, when thepassenger502 is about to board theaircraft516, another optional band reader may verify the identity of thepassenger502 again. Throughout the airport, terminal, gates, restaurants, baggage areas and restrooms, there may besensors518 that detect and read anyidentification appliances504 in their vicinity. Acentral airport system520 may be coupled to thesensors518 andband readers512 so that thesystem520 can track the whereabouts of each passenger.
• FIG. 38 is a representative illustration of another example embodiment of anairport security system500 that uses an improved secure identification appliance, such as an identification band.FIG. 38 illustrates an example checkin, departure and arrival process based on theairport security system500. The left side ofFIG. 38 depicts apassenger502 and hisbaggage505 prior to check-in and departure. The middle section shows the check-in and departure process. The right side ofFIG. 38 illustrates the arrival process. Again, thepassenger502 obtains anidentification appliance504, such as a wristband, from an authorized person or agency, at the ticket counter or curbside check-in. When thepassenger502 checks inbaggage505 at the ticket counter or curbside check-in, abag band machine507 creates abag band508 for thebaggage505 and anidentification band504 for thepassenger502. Alternatively, thebag band machine507 may be a bag band reader. As before, thebag band508 identifies the baggage and its owner. Abaggage routing system522 uses the bag bands to identify baggage and other information necessary to route the baggage to its destination.Optional band readers512 andsensors518 may be placed at thegate514, entry to or exit from theairplane516,baggage claim510 and any other area in the airport facility. Thecentral airport system520 may be coupled to thesensors518 andband readers512 so that thesystem520 can track the whereabouts of each passenger as well as baggage. Thecentral airport system520 may be connected, if desired, to an internationalairport computer network524 so that information is shared with other airports. The shared information may include an airport's information about passengers at the airport as well as international databases about known terrorists, fingerprints, etc. Thus, if airports detect that a group of known terrorists have entered into various airports at similar times, this fact can be made available to the proper authorities such as the FBI. As another example, if an airport detects the presence of several known terrorists in the airport, the airport can enter a security mode, delay flights alert the appropriate authorities, and track the terrorists. Upon arrival, thepassenger502 leaves the airplane and enters thegate514. Again, aband reader512 orsensor518 may detect and ascertain the identity of thepassenger502 as he walks to thebaggage claim510. When thepassenger502 goes to thebaggage claim510 to claim hisbaggage505, thebag band508 and passenger'sidentification appliance504 must match. Aband reader512 may be used to read thebag band508 and theidentification band504. Alternatively, ifbag band machine507 is adapted to read bag bands, the bag band reader reads thebag band508 and another band reader reads theidentification band504. Theidentification band504 andbag band508 may be deactivated upon completion of the travel event.
• Any of the identification appliance embodiments may be used also by immigration officials. There are situations in which the security of a remotely readable identification appliance and data carrier require that the identification appliance can only be secured to the person by an authorized person or agency, and once secured to the person being identified, cannot be removed or its data used except by an authorized party or agency. Accordingly, the improved identification appliance can be supplied by U.S. Embassies or corresponding agencies throughout the world, which identification appliance can be encoded or encrypted with the identification and/or biometric features of the lawful bearer. The immigration authorities can read the identification appliances at the port of entry or authorized check points and compare the information retrieved from the identification appliances to information stored in their database and to biometric information obtained at the present location.
• The identification appliance can be in the form of a single or multiple, detachable RFID/biometric labels that could then be detached and used to be affixed to paperwork, including a place in the Passport near the Visa seal, and that could be read and removed upon departure in order to update and close open files on visitors to the U.S., such as temporary workers, students, business visas and tourists. With regard to the immigration Green Cards issued to lawfully admitted residents, the identification appliance can be in the form of a temporary RFID/biometrics technology based label or card that identifies the bearer between the time of entry or admission to the U.S., and the mailing of the permanent card to the legal alien.
• An additional use for the identification appliance would be to identify applicants for driver's licenses throughout the country. Driver's licenses are restricted to applicants who have proper and lawful identification that proves either proper citizenship or legal resident status. Exceptions are people with business visas on a temporary stay, some temporary working visas and perhaps people under student visas. An identification appliance with biometrics can be used to prove a person's identity and right to apply for a driver's license.
• In any of the embodiments, the identification appliance may include optional structures and features, such as any of the features described below. For example, the communication circuit may perform a communication function of any type and frequency, can communicate passively such as a transponder and/or actively by initiating communications, and can use low or high frequencies. The identification appliance may operate in the low frequency, high frequency, UHF, SHF, or microwave radio bands.
• The identification appliance may be attached to an article in which a circuit in the identification appliance performs an optional electronic article surveillance (EAS) function, for example, to prevent the theft of the article. The EAS function does not transmit an identification code, but enables a reader to detect if the identification appliance is near the reader, for example, at the entry or exit to a retail store or building.
• The identification appliance may provide its location to another device, for example, over a small area (e.g., a room or a building) or a large area (e.g., countrywide or worldwide). Such location information may be provided with a varying degree of accuracy such as with a less than 1 meter uncertainty to a greater than 1 kilometer uncertainty. The location function may be accomplished by calculations derived by the identification appliance of signals received by it (such as from a Global Positioning System or a Local Positioning System), or the location may be derived externally to the identification band, such as by a matrix of RF receivers responding to the strength or timing of reception of signals received from the identification band.
• Optionally, the identification appliance may receive a command from a wireless communication system or network. The wireless communication system may transmit the command to a single identification appliances, to all identification appliances within range, or to a subset of identification appliances. The command may be any kind of command. The command can change any operating characteristic or function of the identification appliance, or cause the identification appliance to execute any set of instructions. For instance, the command can change any human perceptible indicator in the improved identification appliance such as the display, light, audible signal generator, vibrator and the like. As another example, the command may change the frequency at which information is received and/or transmitted between the identification appliance and an external communication system or network. By changing the frequency of transmission or reception, the identification appliance can reduce interference with other identification appliances in the area when the identification appliance is communicating wirelessly with an external device. As yet another example, the command may change the ability of the identification appliance to receive and/or transmit data, the validity of data in the identification appliance, a password to communicate with the identification appliance, the level or type of encryption of data, the expiration of the identification appliance (e.g., the identification appliance is deemed invalid after it expires), a characteristic in the communications protocol (e.g., baud rate or speed of communications, error correction format, communication header format) so that the identification appliance can be able to communicate with different types of communication networks, and virtually any other operating characteristic or function. The command may also optionally give privileges to the improved identification appliance that the wearer of the identification appliance did not have previously. For example, a wireless communication network may permit the wearer of an improved identification appliance to enter a restricted area, where the permission is time-sensitive and time-limited (e.g.; the permission begins at a certain time and expires at a certain time).
• In the foregoing specification, the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments thereof. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made thereto without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the reader is to understand that the specific ordering and combination of process actions shown in the process flow diagrams described herein is merely illustrative, and the invention can be performed using different or additional process actions, or a different combination or ordering of process actions. As another example, each feature of one embodiment can be mixed and matched with other features shown in other embodiments. Features and processes known to those of ordinary skill in the art of identification appliances may similarly be incorporated as desired. Additionally and obviously, features may be added or subtracted as desired. Accordingly, the invention is not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents.

Claims (29)

1-79. (canceled)

80. A method of verifying whether the possessor of an identification appliance is its authorized bearer, the method comprising: retrieving biometric data of the bearer which was previously stored in a circuit in the identification appliance; obtaining current biometric data from the possessor of the identification appliance; and determining if the previously-stored biometric data and the current biometric data are associated with the same person.

81. The method ofclaim 80 further comprising indicating whether the identity of the authorized bearer has been verified.

82. The method ofclaim 81 wherein the indicating step comprises indicating in an audible, visual, or vibrating manner which is perceptible to a human.

83. The method ofclaim 80 further comprising displaying the previously-stored biometric data.

84. The method ofclaim 80 further comprising: retrieving associated data of the bearer which was previously stored in the circuit in the identification appliance; obtaining current associated data from the possessor of the identification appliance; and determining if the previously-stored associated data and the current associated data are from the same person.

85. The method ofclaim 80 wherein the step of obtaining current biometric data includes communicating current biometric data of the possessor of the identification appliance wirelessly to the identification appliance.

86. The method ofclaim 84 wherein the step of obtaining current associated data includes communicating current associated data of the possessor of the identification appliance wirelessly to the identification appliance.

87-126. (canceled)

127. A method of verifying whether the possessor of an identification appliance is its authorized bearer, the identification appliance containing a first set of encoded data about the bearer, the method comprising: a) obtaining a second set of data about the possessor of the identification appliance; b) encoding the set of data to obtain a second set of encoded data; c) communicating the first set of encoded data stored in the identification appliance to a reader; and d) determining whether the first and second sets of encoded data are those of the same person.

128. The method of verifying ofclaim 127 wherein the first and second sets of encoded data include biometric information.

129. The method of verifying ofclaim 127 wherein the determining step determines the number of characteristics of the first and second set of encoded data that match.

130. The method of verifying ofclaim 129 wherein the determining step determines there is a high probability of a match if the number of characteristics of the first and second set of encoded data that match is high and there is a low probability of a match if the number of characteristics of the first and second set of encoded data that match is low.

131. The method of verifying ofclaim 129 wherein the determining step compares the number of matching characteristics to a threshold number to determine the probability that the first and second sets of encoded data are from the same person.

132. The method of verifying ofclaim 127 further comprising assigning a weight to each data in the first or second sets of encoded data based on the data's effect on the overall probability of identity verification.

133. The method of verifying ofclaim 127 further comprising indicating the result of whether the first and second sets of encoded data are determined to be those of the same person.

134. The method of verifying ofclaim 127 further comprising indicating data from the first and second sets of encoded data which do not match.

135. The method of verifying ofclaim 134 further comprising permitting a human to determine whether the data from the first and second sets of encoded data match and to input the decision.

136. The method of verifying ofclaim 134 further comprising preventing the possessor from gaining access to a restricted area if the determining step determines that the first and second sets of encoded data are not from the same person.

137-230. (canceled)

231. The method ofclaim 127 wherein the second set of data includes biometric information about the possessor.

232. The method ofclaim 127 wherein the second set of data includes acoustic information about the possessor's voice or speech characteristic.

233. The method ofclaim 127 wherein the second set of data includes optical information about the possessor.

234. The method ofclaim 127 wherein the second set of data includes chemical information about the possessor.

235. The method ofclaim 127 wherein the second set of data includes genetic information about the possessor.

236. The method ofclaim 127 wherein the first set of data includes genetic information about the possessor.

237-264. (canceled)

265. The method ofclaim 80 further comprising retrieving biometric data of the bearer which was previously stored in an external database.

266-284. (canceled)

Images