Fingerprint recognition performance in rugged outdoors and cold weather conditions

This paper reports on tests of the performance of fingerprint recognition technology in rugged outdoor conditions, with an especial concentration on the performance in cold weather. We analyze: 1) chip versus optical fingerprint scanner technology, 2) recognition performance and image quality, and 3) user/device interaction. A outdoor fingerprint door access system was designed to capture fingerprint images and video data of user interactions. Using this device, data were captured over a period of two years, and a user survey performed. Data were analyzed in terms of biometric error rates and fingerprint quality (NFIQ) as a function of temperature and humidity. Results suggest: 1) biometric performance has no significant dependence on temperature and humidity (-30C to +20C), 2) both chip based and optical fingerprint scanners have some flaws in rugged and cold weather applications, and 3) overall fingerprint biometric technology has a good level of usability in this application.