Patent ID: 6865285
Filing Date: 2005-03-08
Classification: G06K

Abstract:
1. A low cost method of on-site analysis of a surface having fingerprints and other indicia thereon comprising the steps of: a) providing at least one high intensity blue light emitting diode that will emit light in the wavelength range from about 400 to about 550 nm; b) compactly mounting said diode on a personal attachment device that is light-weight and allows the person wearing said device to work hands free and readily view a surface with a wide area; c) providing a portable power source for said diode, said source being a battery pack having associated resistor means providing for selection of electric current and voltage, said voltage and current levels being selected to extend diode lifetime; d) applying a fluorescing dye to the surface to be investigated, said dye being selected to fluoresce in light emitted in said wavelength range; e) maintaining current from said power supply to provide the desired luminous output from said diode for observing a wide area of said surface and for extending the wearing time of said attachment device; f) illuminating the surface to which said dye has been applied with light emitted from said light emitting diode; and, g) detecting fluorescent light from indicia or fingerprints on said surface by viewing said light through lens in goggles or eyeglasses that transmit the fluorescent light so that it is visible to the human eye allowing said viewing to be performed hands-free while applying said dye or after said dye has been applied.