Biometric switch and indicating means

• US 20110090047A1
• Filed: 02/20/2001
• Published: 04/21/2011
• Est. Priority Date: 02/20/2001
• Status: Abandoned Application

• Current Assignee: Pankaj B. Patel
• Original Assignee: Pankaj B. Patel
• Inventors: Patel, Pankaj B.
• Application Number:
  US09/785,775
• Publication Number:
  US 20110090047A1
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 340/5.82
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/00563 using personal physical data of the operator, e.g. finger prints, retinal images, voicepatterns
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/37 using biometric data, e.g. fingerprints, iris scans or voice recognition

Abstract

A biometric switch for reading fingerprints, giving tactile feedback when the fingerprint has been read, and opening a locking mechanism when depressed. The biometric mechanisms are encased into a small push button type switch with the finger print reader at the top surface. When the fingerprint is read and the processor has determined that the user is allowed access, the button is allowed to depress via an electromechanical mechanism. Thus the invention allows for the inherent force of the fingerprint pressed against the button to open a variety of devices.

Claims

1. A finger print reading apparatus for reading finger prints and giving tactile feedback, said apparatus comprising:

a. a button having an upper surface, said button slidably affixed to a housing,

b. a finger print reader affixed to said upper surface of said button,

c. a processor communicating with said finger print reader,

d. a power supply electrically connected to said processor,

e. a memory storage communicating with said processor,

f. a means for electromechanically allowing said button to slide within said housing, said means communicating with said processor, said means powered by said power supply.

2. A fingerprint reading a set forth in claim 1 wherein said power supply is a miniature battery encased in said button.

3. A fingerprint reading a set forth in claim 1 wherein said processor communicating with a remote processor and memory storage.

4. A fingerprint reading a set forth in claim 3 wherein said communicating between said processor and said remote processor is wireless.