Understanding Iris Recognition
The Science Behind Iris
The iris has been historically recognized to possess characteristics unique to each individual. In the mid-1980s, two ophthalmologists—Drs. Leonard Flom and Aran Safir—proposed the concept that no two irises are alike. They researched and documented the potential of using the iris for identifying people and were awarded a patent in 1987. Soon after, the intricate and sophisticated algorithm that brought the concept to reality was developed by Dr. John Daugman and patented in 1994. The original work and continued development have established Iridian’s iris recognition algorithm as the mathematically unrivaled means for authentication.
The technical performance capability of the iris recognition algorithm far surpasses that of any other biometric technology now available. Objective measures, such as a cross-over error rate, are at levels that cannot be reached by other biometrics. Iridian’s algorithm is designed for rapid (seconds) exhaustive search of very large databases; a distinctive capability required for authentication today.
What is the Iris?
The iris is the plainly visible, colored ring that surrounds the pupil. It is a muscular structure that controls the amount of light entering the eye, with intricate details that can be measured, such as striations, pits, and furrows. The iris is not to be confused with the retina, which lines the inside of the back of the eye.
No two irises are alike. There is no detailed correlation between the iris patterns of even identical twins, or the right and left eye of an individual. The accuracy of the information is greater than DNA.
Iris recognition is one of the fastest, most accurate and scalable biometric recognition technologies. It is also non-invasive and completely safe. Low rates of false rejection and acceptance require vast quantities of accessible, precise and stable data – qualities inherent within the structure of the iris. The iris contains massive amounts of detailed information critical for identification.
Following its complete formation at approximately 18 months of age, the iris can be easily photographed. Plus, it remains stable throughout a person’s life.