Eye recognition

Security systems that use the coloured part of the eye to validate a person’s identity could become more accurate thanks to new computer algorithms developed at the University of Bath.

“The algorithm has been 100% accurate in our initial trials and, even though we don’t have their exact implementation systems, it outperforms the industry standard by a long way,” boasts Professor Don Monro from the University’s Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering.

“Accuracy is very important in iris recognition because as well as ensuring that the person in front of the technology is who they say they are, you also don’t want people turned away should the system makes a mistake; the so-called ‘insult factor’.”

The researchers now need to give the algorithm a proper work out, which is why they are in the process of expanding their database of iris images by collecting 16,000 from students and staff at the University.

The research team are also involved in two separate trials being run by UK and USA government agencies which are assessing iris recognition and other ‘living passport’ technologies for future use.