Patent Description:
Conventionally, there has been known a technique in which a biometric authentication sensor is incorporated into hardware such as an automatic teller machine (ATM) of a bank, an entrance and exit management terminal, a personal computer, and a mobile phone terminal, and the biometric authentication sensor performs biometric authentication of a user.

In recent years, miniaturization of biometric authentication devices has progressed, and it is conceivable for a biometric authentication sensor to be mounted on a portable medium having a size such that it can be held by one hand. Further, such a biometric authentication device is equipped with a rechargeable battery. However, as the biometric authentication device becomes smaller, the battery that can be mounted becomes smaller. Therefore, the biometric authentication device has a problem with power saving.

For example, when a biometric authentication device is used, a user may manually operate a power switch to turn on the biometric authentication device and then operate the power switch to turn off the biometric authentication device after fingerprint authentication is completed. However, this forces the user to use the biometric authentication device in a complicated manner.

<CIT> discloses press-trigger fingerprint sensor module comprising two embedded switches, a sensor panel and a fingerprint recognition processor. When the user puts the finger in predetermined position over the sensor panel, the first switch is activated. The first switch sends out a high signal to have power connected to the fingerprint sensor. Without changing the position of the finger, the pressure being exerted perpendicular to the panel surface is transferred to the second switch, which then senses the presence of the finger and captures an image. The fingerprint recognition is performed subsequently.

Document <CIT> discloses a fingerprint identification-based boot method and apparatus. The method comprises: upon detection of a boot signal, acquiring fingerprint data; matching the fingerprint data against pre-stored predetermined fingerprint data; and if the matching is successful, then logging on to a terminal apparatus. The fingerprint identification-based boot method and apparatus provided by the present application improve efficiency in logging on to a terminal apparatus, and increase a battery run-time of the terminal apparatus.

<CIT> discloses a sensor with a biometric sensor element for detecting fingerprints, the activation or deactivation is effected by touching and releasing the sensor element.

<CIT> discloses input device for performing collation of a fingerprint by an easy configuration of an electric circuit, and preventing the fingerprint collation from being performed by misoperation or the like to secure higher security.

<CIT> discloses a finger vein authentication apparatus applicable to a compact information processing apparatus like a mobile phone, and an information processing apparatus using the same. The finger vein authentication apparatus includes a light source for emitting light toward a finger, an image sensor for taking an image of the transmitted light from the finger, a lens apparatus for imaging the transmitted light to the image sensor, and an image processor for processing the taken image. The lens apparatus includes a short focus wide angle lens unit, and the image processor extracts a vein pattern of the finger upon correcting the strain of the taken image.

A problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a biometric authentication device capable of saving power.

According to an embodiment, a biometric authentication device includes the features of claim <NUM>.

Hereinafter, a biometric authentication device <NUM> according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG>. <FIG> is a perspective view showing a configuration of the biometric authentication device <NUM> according to the first embodiment. <FIG> is a block diagram showing a configuration of the biometric authentication device <NUM>. <FIG> is an explanatory diagram schematically showing a configuration of the biometric authentication device <NUM>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a configuration of an operation mechanism <NUM> used in the biometric authentication device <NUM>. <FIG> is an explanatory diagram showing an example of use of the biometric authentication device <NUM>. In each drawing, for convenience of description, the shape of each configuration is simplified or omitted, or the dimensions are enlarged or reduced.

As shown in <FIG>, the biometric authentication device <NUM> includes a processor <NUM>, a biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, a secure element (SE) <NUM> such as a central processing unit (CPU), a wireless communication interface (I/F) <NUM>, a battery <NUM>, a power supply circuit <NUM>, and an operation mechanism <NUM>. In addition, as shown in <FIG>, the biometric authentication device <NUM> includes a housing <NUM> that houses the processor <NUM>, the SE <NUM>, the wireless communication I/F <NUM>, the battery <NUM>, the power supply circuit <NUM>, and the operation mechanism <NUM> and exposes the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> to an outer surface.

For example, as shown in <FIG>, the processor <NUM>, the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the SE <NUM>, the wireless communication I/F <NUM>, the battery <NUM>, and the power supply circuit <NUM> used in the biometric authentication device <NUM> are mounted on a plurality of substrates <NUM>. The plurality of substrates <NUM> are housed in the housing <NUM>. The arrangement of the components shown in <FIG> is an example, and can be set as appropriate.

The processor <NUM> performs processing and control necessary for the operation of the biometric authentication device <NUM>. The processor <NUM>, for example, controls the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the SE <NUM>, and the wireless communication I/F <NUM> in order to realize various functions of the biometric authentication device <NUM> based on a program stored in the SE <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the processor <NUM> functions as, for example, an authentication processing part 11a, an authentication data holding part 11b, and an authentication data reporting part 11c by executing a program stored in the SE <NUM>.

The authentication processing part 11a, for example, encrypts, by the SE <NUM>, biometric authentication information acquired by the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. The authentication data holding part 11b stores in the SE <NUM> the biometric authentication information encrypted by the authentication processing part 11a. The authentication data reporting part 11c reads out the encrypted biometric authentication information stored in the SE <NUM>, and transmits the encrypted biometric authentication information via the wireless communication I/F <NUM> to a terminal <NUM> provided outside that performs biometric authentication.

The processor <NUM> is formed by one or more processing circuits. The processor <NUM> is, for example, a micro processing unit (MPU). Note that the processor <NUM> may be a central processing unit (CPU), a system on a chip (SoC), a digital signal processor (DSP), or a graphics processing unit (GPU). Alternatively, the processor <NUM> may be a combination thereof.

The biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is electrically connected to the processor <NUM>. The biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is powered by the processor <NUM>, for example. While power is supplied, the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is controlled by, for example, the authentication processing part 11a of the processor <NUM>, and acquires biometric authentication information of a finger <NUM> in contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> as biometric authentication information of a living body. The biometric authentication sensor <NUM> transmits biometric authentication information acquired from the finger <NUM> to the authentication processing part 11a. The biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is, for example, a fingerprint sensor that acquires image data of a fingerprint from a finger. The biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is, for example, formed in a rectangular shape. The biometric authentication sensor <NUM> may be other than a fingerprint sensor, and may be, for example, a vein sensor that acquires a vein pattern of a finger as image data.

The SE <NUM> is electrically connected to the processor <NUM>. The SE <NUM> is powered by the processor <NUM>, for example. The SE <NUM> includes a memory capable of storing data and a cryptographic logic circuit. The SE <NUM> encrypts and stores the biometric authentication information. The SE <NUM> stores various programs for exhibiting a biometric authentication function. While power is supplied, the SE <NUM> is controlled by, for example, the authentication processing part 11a and the authentication data holding part 11b of the processor <NUM>, and encrypts and stores the biometric authentication information. For example, the SE <NUM> holds stored information such as various programs even while power is not supplied.

The wireless communication I/F <NUM> is electrically connected to the processor <NUM>. The wireless communication I/F <NUM> is, for example, powered by the processor <NUM>. The wireless communication I/F <NUM> is an interface that transmits and receives information to and from the terminal <NUM> by wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or Wi-Fi (registered trademark). The battery <NUM> is, for example, a flat small battery. The battery <NUM> may be a primary battery or a secondary battery.

The power supply circuit <NUM> is a power source circuit. The power supply circuit <NUM> includes a circuit part 16a and a switch 16b provided in the circuit part 16a. In the power supply circuit <NUM>, the circuit part 16a is normally open, and the circuit part 16a is closed when the switch 16b is operated. The circuit part 16a connects the processor <NUM> and the battery <NUM>. In addition to the processor <NUM>, the circuit part 16a may connect the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the SE <NUM>, and the wireless communication I/F <NUM> to the battery <NUM>.

The circuit part 16a in the open state stops supply of current from the battery <NUM> to the processor <NUM>. The circuit part 16a in the closed state supplies current from the battery <NUM> to the processor <NUM>.

The switch 16b is normally in an OFF state, and is operated to enter an ON state. For example, the switch 16b closes the circuit part 16a while the switch 16b is operated and in the ON state. In other words, the switch 16b is, for example, a switch of a momentary system. For example, the switch 16b is mechanically or electrically operated by the operation mechanism <NUM>.

In such a power supply circuit <NUM>, the circuit part 16a is closed only while the switch 16b is operated, and power is supplied from the battery <NUM> to the processor <NUM>. In other words, while the switch 16b is operated, the circuit part 16a is closed and power is supplied from the battery <NUM> to the processor <NUM>, so that the authentication processing part 11a, the authentication data holding part 11b, and the authentication data reporting part 11c function. When the circuit part 16a is closed while the switch 16b is operated, power is also supplied to the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the SE <NUM>, and the wireless communication I/F <NUM> via the processor <NUM>.

When biometric authentication is performed by the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the operation mechanism <NUM> operates the switch 16b by bringing the finger <NUM> into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and moving the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> in one direction with the finger <NUM>.

The operation mechanism <NUM>, for example, holds the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> in a movable manner. For example, the operation mechanism <NUM> is provided between the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and the substrate <NUM> on which the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is mounted. The operation mechanism <NUM>, for example, holds the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> so as to be movable between an initial position of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and an operation position at which the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> moves to operate the switch 16b. Further, the operation mechanism <NUM> biases the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> to the initial position and positions the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> at the initial position when no external force is applied.

Here, the operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is, for example, an operation in which a finger is brought into close contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> in order to acquire biometric authentication information in the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, and then a user further intentionally moves the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. Note that the operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> may be an operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> that is not intended by the user as long as the operation occurs in association with an action of acquiring biometric authentication information in the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. A specific example of an operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> that is not intended by the user is a movement of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> that is additionally caused by an action of the user bringing a finger into close contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> in order to acquire biometric authentication information in the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> without knowing that the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> will move.

The movement of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> may be any movement as long as the switch 16b can be operated, and may be a movement of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> that can be recognized by the user or a movement of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> that is difficult for the user to recognize. That is, an amount of the movement of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> associated with the operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> can be set as appropriate.

As a specific example, when the user brings the finger <NUM> into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and further performs an operation of pressing the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> down with the finger <NUM> from this contact state, the operation mechanism <NUM> operates the switch 16b. That is, in the example of the present embodiment, a moving direction between the initial position and the operation position of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> by the operation mechanism <NUM> is a direction along a pressing direction of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>.

Further, for example, when the operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is released, the operation mechanism <NUM> moves the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> to the initial position and releases the operation of the switch 16b. That is, the operation mechanism <NUM> is a mechanism of a momentary system that closes the switch 16b only while the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is being operated.

As a specific example, the operation mechanism <NUM> is a mechanism of a membrane system as shown in <FIG>. For example, the operation mechanism <NUM> includes a guiding portion <NUM> provided in the housing <NUM>, a guided portion <NUM> that moves along the guiding portion <NUM>, and a rubber dome <NUM> that is operated by the guided portion <NUM>.

The guiding portion <NUM> is, for example, formed in a tubular shape. The guiding portion <NUM> is disposed around the switch 16b of the power supply circuit <NUM> provided on the substrate <NUM>. For example, the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is fixed to the guided portion <NUM>. The guided portion <NUM> moves in one direction along the guiding portion <NUM>.

The rubber dome <NUM> holds the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> fixed to the guided portion <NUM> at the initial position by biasing the guided portion <NUM>. When the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is pressed down and the guided portion <NUM> moves toward the inside of the housing <NUM> along the guiding portion <NUM>, the rubber dome <NUM> is elastically deformed to operate the switch 16b. The switch 16b may adopt a configuration that provides a click sensation such as a "click" when operated. When the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is released from being pressed down, the rubber dome <NUM> biases the guided portion <NUM> with a restoring force and moves the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> to the initial position.

The force required to elastically deform the rubber dome <NUM> and operate the switch 16b is set as appropriate. For example, the rubber dome <NUM> may be elastically deformed when the user further presses the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> down with the finger <NUM> after the finger <NUM> is brought into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. Further, for example, the rubber dome <NUM> may be elastically deformed by bringing the finger <NUM> into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> to such an extent that biometric authentication information can be acquired by the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. In the present embodiment, an example will be described in which the rubber dome <NUM> is elastically deformed when the user further presses the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> down by applying a predetermined force after bringing the finger into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>.

The housing <NUM> is, for example, formed in a size that fits in fingers of one hand. Here, a size that fits in the fingers of one hand is, for example, a size that can be held by the fingers of one hand. If the configuration shown in <FIG> is adopted, the shape is irrelevant.

In the present embodiment, the housing <NUM> is formed into a cubic shape having a size that fits into a sphere having a diameter of <NUM>, specifically, a cubic shape having <NUM> sides or less. The housing <NUM> has, for example, a ridge portion and a corner portion formed in a curved surface shape.

As shown in <FIG>, the housing <NUM>, for example, accommodates the processor <NUM>, the SE <NUM>, the wireless communication I/F <NUM>, and the battery <NUM> that are respectively mounted on the substrates <NUM>. In addition, for example, the housing <NUM> accommodates the substrates <NUM> on which the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and the power supply circuit <NUM> are mounted and the operation mechanism <NUM>, and exposes the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> to a part of the outer surface. As a specific example, the housing <NUM> has, on one surface thereof, an opening <NUM> for exposing the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>.

In addition, the housing <NUM> has a groove <NUM> in a part of the outer surface, which is at least a part of positions at which the fingers come into contact with the housing <NUM> when the finger <NUM> is brought into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. The groove <NUM> is, for example, provided at least at a position of the housing <NUM> that is touched by a finger among the fingers that is different from a finger that touches the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>.

The groove <NUM> is, for example, formed to a depth at which a finger can contact a bottom surface of the groove <NUM>. The bottom surface of the groove <NUM> is formed into a curved surface shape, for example. The shape of the groove <NUM> can be set as appropriate, and for example, the bottom surface may be formed into a planar shape. However, the groove <NUM> preferably has a depth and a shape such that when the housing <NUM> is held by the fingers, a pad of a finger comes into contact with the bottom surface of the groove <NUM>.

In the present embodiment, as shown in <FIG>, the groove <NUM> is provided on one surface 19b of four surfaces adjacent to a surface 19a having the opening <NUM> for exposing the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The groove <NUM> is provided on the center side of one surface 19b adjacent to the surface 19a having the opening <NUM> in a direction orthogonal to the surface 19a on which the opening <NUM> is provided. The groove <NUM> extends along a direction parallel to the surface 19a on which the opening <NUM> is provided. In addition, for example, the groove <NUM> is provided between two opposing surfaces 19c adjacent to both the surface 19b on which the groove <NUM> is provided and the surface 19a having the opening <NUM> of the housing <NUM>.

Next, an example of biometric authentication using the biometric authentication device <NUM> with the above-described configuration will be described. In the present embodiment, the finger <NUM> that performs biometric authentication using the biometric authentication device <NUM> will be described below as a thumb <NUM> of a right hand <NUM>.

First, in the biometric authentication device <NUM> in which the finger <NUM> is not in contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and biometric authentication is not performed, the switch 16b is in the OFF state and the power supply circuit <NUM> is open. Thus, in the biometric authentication device <NUM>, the supply of power from the battery <NUM> to the processor <NUM> is stopped. Therefore, the functions of the authentication processing part 11a, the authentication data holding part 11b, and the authentication data reporting part 11c of the processor <NUM>, as well as the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the SE <NUM>, and the wireless communication I/F <NUM> are stopped.

When fingerprint authentication is performed, the user holds the housing <NUM> with either a left or right hand; in the present embodiment, the right hand <NUM>. Specifically, for example, as shown in <FIG>, the user places an index finger <NUM> in the groove <NUM> and supports a surface of the housing <NUM> opposing the surface 19a where the opening <NUM> is provided with a middle finger <NUM>, a ring finger <NUM>, and a little finger <NUM>. Then, the user brings the thumb <NUM> into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>.

When the user brings the thumb <NUM> into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and presses the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> down with the thumb <NUM> so that the thumb <NUM> further closely contacts the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is moved by the operation mechanism <NUM>. Then, the switch 16b is operated by the operation mechanism <NUM>, and power is supplied from the battery <NUM> to the processor <NUM> by the power supply circuit <NUM>.

More specifically, for example, when the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is pressed down by the thumb <NUM> of the user, the guided portion <NUM> moves along the guiding portion <NUM> and elastically deforms the rubber dome <NUM>. Then, the switch 16b is operated by the elastically deformed rubber dome <NUM>. As a result, the switch 16b is turned on and the circuit part 16a is closed, so that supply of power from the battery <NUM> to the processor <NUM> is started.

When the supply of power from the battery <NUM> to the processor <NUM> is started, the processor <NUM> executes the biometric authentication function by the functions of the authentication processing part 11a, the authentication data holding part 11b, and the authentication data reporting part 11c.

Specifically, the authentication processing part 11a activates the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, and acquires biometric authentication information of a contact region of the thumb <NUM>. In the present embodiment, since the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is a fingerprint sensor, the authentication processing part 11a acquires fingerprint data of the thumb <NUM> in contact with the fingerprint sensor as biometric authentication information. Then, for example, the authentication processing part 11a encrypts by the SE <NUM> the biometric authentication information acquired by the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>.

Next, the authentication data holding part 11b stores in the SE <NUM> the biometric authentication information encrypted by the authentication processing part 11a. Then, the authentication data reporting part 11c reads out the encrypted biometric authentication information stored in the SE <NUM>, and transmits the biometric authentication information to the terminal <NUM> that is provided outside and performs biometric authentication via the wireless communication I/F <NUM>.

As described above, while the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is pressed down by the finger <NUM>, the processor <NUM> acquires biometric authentication information, encrypts the biometric authentication information, stores the encrypted biometric authentication information, and transmits the stored encrypted biometric authentication information to the external terminal <NUM>. Note that processes of encrypting, storing, and transmitting biometric authentication information are not limited to the above, and various changes can be made as necessary.

When the encrypted biometric authentication information is transmitted to the external terminal <NUM>, the user releases the thumb <NUM> away from the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. When the thumb <NUM> separates from the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the guided portion <NUM> is biased by restoration of the rubber dome <NUM>, and the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> returns to the initial position. As a result, the operation of the switch 16b is released, the switch 16b is turned off, and the circuit part 16a is opened. Thus, the supply of power from the battery <NUM> to the processor <NUM> is stopped.

As described above, while the user presses the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> down with a finger such as the thumb <NUM>, power is supplied from the battery <NUM> to the processor <NUM> by the power supply circuit <NUM>, and the biometric authentication function is executed by the processor <NUM>.

When the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is operated in a state in which any finger is in contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> on a next occasion, power is supplied to the processor <NUM> and the biometric authentication function is executed while the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is operated (pressed down) in the same manner.

According to the biometric authentication device <NUM> with the above-described configuration, the power supply and the execution of the biometric authentication function can be continuously performed by bringing the finger <NUM> into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> or by bringing the finger <NUM> into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and then further operating the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> with the finger <NUM> in contact.

That is, the biometric authentication device <NUM> closes the power supply circuit <NUM> by bringing the finger <NUM> into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and operating the switch 16b in order to acquire biometric authentication information. Then, in the biometric authentication device <NUM>, power is supplied to the processor <NUM> only when the power supply circuit <NUM> is closed, and a fingerprint authentication function of acquisition, encryption, storage, and communication of biometric authentication information is exhibited. Therefore, the biometric authentication device <NUM> can supply electric power from the battery <NUM> to the processor <NUM> only when a finger is in contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> in order to exhibit the fingerprint authentication function. Since power is not supplied from the battery <NUM> to the processor <NUM> during standby, the biometric authentication device <NUM> can save power.

An instruction to supply power to the processor <NUM> may be an operation in which the user brings the finger <NUM> into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> in order to acquire biometric authentication information or an operation in which the user brings the finger <NUM> into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and moves the finger <NUM> in the contact state to operate the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. Thus, the biometric authentication device <NUM> does not require the user to be aware of power supply, such as operating a power switch, and is user-friendly, and thus has high usability. In addition, the biometric authentication device <NUM> can cause the user to consciously perform the operation of pressing the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> down for power supply when acquiring biometric authentication information. That is, when the user recognizes the pressing down of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and presses the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the finger <NUM> comes into close contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. Therefore, an acquisition efficiency of the biometric authentication information can be improved.

Further, for example, the movement amount of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and a force required to move the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> can be adjusted as appropriate by the configuration of the operation mechanism <NUM>. Therefore, a response of the biometric authentication device <NUM> to an operation of the user can be appropriately set by the configuration of the operation mechanism <NUM>.

That is, in order to give the user a feeling of starting biometric authentication or a feeling of performing biometric authentication, the movement amount of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> by the operation mechanism <NUM> and the force required for the movement may be set to be relatively large. In addition, if it is not desired to make the user aware of a feeling of starting biometric authentication, a feeling of performing biometric authentication, or an operation feeling of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, for example, the operation mechanism <NUM> may be set to have a small movement amount of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and a small force required for the movement.

In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which the rubber dome <NUM> is elastically deformed when the user presses the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> down by further applying a predetermined force after bringing a finger into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. Such an operation mechanism <NUM> brings the finger <NUM> into close contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, thereby improving the acquisition efficiency of biometric authentication information and allowing the user to realize that biometric authentication is being performed.

As described above, the biometric authentication device <NUM> according to the present embodiment is configured such that the power supply circuit <NUM> is closed when a finger is placed on the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. As a result, the biometric authentication device <NUM> supplies power to the processor <NUM> only when the biometric authentication function is exhibited, and thus power can be saved.

Hereinafter, a biometric authentication device <NUM> according to a second embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG> is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a configuration of an operation mechanism 17A used in the biometric authentication device <NUM> according to the second embodiment. In the biometric authentication device <NUM> according to the second embodiment, the configuration of the operation mechanism 17A is different from the configuration of the biometric authentication device <NUM> according to the first embodiment described above, and other similar configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

The operation mechanism 17A used in the biometric authentication device <NUM> holds the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> in a movable manner. For example, the operation mechanism 17A holds the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> so as to be movable between an initial position and an operation position where the switch 16b is operated. Further, for example, the operation mechanism 17A biases the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> to the initial position, and positions the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> at the initial position when no external forces are applied. As a specific example, when the finger <NUM> comes into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is further operated by the finger <NUM> in one direction, the operation mechanism 17A moves the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> from the initial position to the operation position and operates the switch 16b.

A moving direction of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> between the initial position and the operation position is the pressing direction thereof, and the operation mechanism 17A moves the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> into the housing <NUM> when the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is pressed down by the finger <NUM> from a state in which the finger <NUM> is in contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. Further, for example, when the operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is released, the operation mechanism 17A moves the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> to the initial position. That is, the operation mechanism 17A is a mechanism of a momentary system that closes the switch 16b only while the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is being operated.

As a specific example, as shown in <FIG>, the operation mechanism 17A is a mechanism of a pantograph system. For example, the operation mechanism 17A includes an arm <NUM> provided in the housing <NUM>, a biasing member <NUM> that biases the arm <NUM> toward the initial position, and a base <NUM> that fixes the arm <NUM> to the substrate <NUM>. The arm <NUM> is disposed above the switch 16b of the power supply circuit <NUM> provided on the substrate <NUM>. The arm <NUM> holds the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> at the initial position, for example. The arm <NUM> is operated by pressing the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> down. When the arm <NUM> is operated, the height thereof is reduced and the switch 16b is operated. When the pressing down of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is released, the height of the arm <NUM> returns due to the biasing by the biasing member <NUM>, and the arm <NUM> moves the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> to the initial position.

The biasing member <NUM> is an elastic body such as a spring. The biasing member <NUM> biases the arm <NUM> so that the arm <NUM> has a predetermined height when the pressing down of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is released.

An amount of movement of the arm <NUM> and a force required to operate the arm <NUM> against the biasing of the biasing member <NUM> so as to operate the switch 16b are appropriately set depending on the dimensions and shape of the arm <NUM> and the configuration of the biasing member <NUM>.

For example, such a switch 16b or operation mechanism 17A may have a configuration that provides a click sensation.

As described above, the biometric authentication device <NUM> using the operation mechanism 17A according to the second embodiment is configured to close the power supply circuit <NUM> by bringing a finger into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> in the same manner as the biometric authentication device <NUM> according to the first embodiment described above. Thus, in the biometric authentication device <NUM>, power is supplied to the processor <NUM> only when the biometric authentication function is exhibited. Therefore, the biometric authentication device <NUM> can save power.

Hereinafter, a biometric authentication device <NUM> according to a third embodiment will be described with reference to <FIG> is a cross-sectional view schematically showing a configuration of an operation mechanism 17B used in the biometric authentication device <NUM> according to the third embodiment. In <FIG>, a left diagram shows an (OFF state) before the switch 16b is operated by the operation mechanism 17B, and a right diagram shows an (ON state) after the switch 16b is operated by the operation mechanism 17B. In the biometric authentication device <NUM> according to the third embodiment, the configuration of the operation mechanism 17B is different from the configuration of the biometric authentication device <NUM> according to the first embodiment described above, and other similar configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals and detailed descriptions thereof are omitted.

The operation mechanism 17B used in the biometric authentication device <NUM> holds the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> in a movable manner. For example, the operation mechanism 17B holds the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> so as to be movable between an initial position and an operation position where the switch 16b is operated. Further, for example, the operation mechanism 17B biases the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> to the initial position, and positions the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> at the initial position when no external forces are applied. As a specific example, when the finger <NUM> comes into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is further operated by the finger <NUM> in one direction, the operation mechanism 17B moves the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> from the initial position to the operation position and operates the switch 16b.

A moving direction of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> between the initial position and the operation position is the pressing direction thereof, and the operation mechanism 17B moves the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> into the housing <NUM> when the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is pressed down by the finger <NUM> from a state in which the finger <NUM> is in contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. Further, for example, when the operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is released, the operation mechanism 17B moves the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> to the initial position. That is, the operation mechanism 17B is a mechanism of a momentary system that closes the switch 16b only while the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is being operated.

In addition, for example, when the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is operated and the switch 16b is switched from the OFF state to the ON state and from the ON state to the OFF state, the operation mechanism 17B generates a click sensation and a typing sound.

As a specific example, the operation mechanism 17B is a mechanism of a mechanical system as shown in <FIG>. For example, the operation mechanism 17B includes a guiding portion <NUM> provided in the housing <NUM>, a guided portion <NUM> that moves along the guiding portion <NUM>, an operation portion <NUM> that moves in a direction intersecting a moving direction of the guided portion <NUM> by being pressed by the guided portion <NUM>, and a coil spring <NUM> that biases the guided portion <NUM>.

The guiding portion <NUM> is formed in a tubular shape, and holds the guided portion <NUM> so as to be movable in one direction. For example, the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is fixed to the guided portion <NUM>. The guided portion <NUM> moves along the guiding portion <NUM>.

The operation portion <NUM> is formed of, for example, a metallic material, and includes a pair of members 53a that are moved by the guided portion <NUM> in a direction intersecting the moving direction of the guided portion <NUM> when the guided portion <NUM> moves along the guiding portion <NUM>.

One member 53a of the operation portion <NUM> is disposed to face the switch 16b of the power supply circuit <NUM> and has a contact point with the switch 16b. When the guided portion <NUM> moves in one direction from the (OFF state) to the (ON state) in <FIG>, the operation portion <NUM> moves in a direction in which the pair of members 53a provided with the switch 16b are separated. Then, when one member 53a facing the switch 16b moves toward the switch 16b and the one member 53a comes into contact with the switch 16b, the switch 16b is turned on. As described above, when the switch 16b is operated by the operation portion <NUM>, the power supply circuit <NUM> is closed.

In addition, the operation portion <NUM> is operated by the guided portion <NUM>, and generates a click sensation or a typing sound when one member 53a comes into contact with the switch 16b and when the switch 16b is separated from the contact state.

As described above, the biometric authentication device <NUM> using the operation mechanism 17B according to the third embodiment is configured to close the power supply circuit <NUM> by bringing a finger into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> in the same manner as the biometric authentication device <NUM> according to the first embodiment described above. Thus, in the biometric authentication device <NUM>, power is supplied to the processor <NUM> only when the biometric authentication function is exhibited. Therefore, the biometric authentication device <NUM> can save power. In addition, since the operation mechanism 17B is of a mechanical system capable of generating a click sensation and a typing sound, it is possible to preferably transmit a feeling that biometric authentication has started and a feeling that biometric authentication has ended to a user.

The above-described embodiments are presented by way of example only, and the biometric authentication device is not limited to the above-described embodiments. For example, in the above-described examples, examples having mechanisms of a membrane system, a pantograph system, and a mechanical system as the operation mechanisms <NUM>, 17A, and 17B, respectively, have been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

For example, as shown in another embodiment of <FIG>, an operation mechanism 17C may be a mechanism of a non-contact electrostatic capacity system. Such an operation mechanism 17C includes, for example, the rubber dome <NUM> and a spring <NUM> such as a conical spring compressed by the rubber dome <NUM> below the guided portion <NUM> moving along the guiding portion <NUM>. Then, the operation mechanism 17C detects an electrostatic capacity that changes due to deformation of the spring <NUM>, recognizes movement of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> provided in the guided portion <NUM>, and turns on the switch 16b.

Such an operation mechanism 17C can obtain the same effects as those of the operation mechanisms <NUM>, 17A, and 17B described above. Further, by applying the mechanism of the non-contact electrostatic capacity system to the operation mechanism 17C, a contact for turning on/off the switch 16b is not required, so that the operation mechanism 17C has a high durability. In addition, since generation of a click sensation or sound can be suppressed, the operation mechanism 17C of the non-contact electrostatic capacity system is suitable for a case where generation of a click sensation or sound is desired to be suppressed during use of the biometric authentication device <NUM>. In a case where a click sensation is desired even when the operation mechanism 17C of the non-contact electrostatic capacity system is used, for example, a configuration that provides a click sensation may be adopted for the switch 16b.

Further, as shown in another embodiment of <FIG>, an operation mechanism 17D may turn on the switch 16b by slidably moving the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> in one direction of a main surface direction of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> as an operation direction from a user. For example, such an operation mechanism 17D includes an operation body <NUM> that is provided in the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and operates the switch 16b, a guiding portion <NUM> that guides the sliding movement of the operation body <NUM> along the main surface direction of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, and a biasing member <NUM> that biases the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> toward an initial position.

In such an operation mechanism 17D, after a finger is brought into close contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the finger <NUM> is moved along a surface direction of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, whereby the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is slidably moved and the operation body <NUM> is moved. When the operation body <NUM> moves from a position indicated by a two-dot chain line to a position indicated by a solid line in <FIG>, for example, a tip of the operation body <NUM> operates the switch 16b. As a result, the operation mechanism 17D can turn on the switch 16b and close the power supply circuit <NUM>. Thus, such an operation mechanism 17D can obtain the same effects as those of the above-described operation mechanisms <NUM>, 17A, 17B, and 17C.

In addition, since the operation mechanism 17D presses the finger <NUM> against the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and moves the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, a state in which the finger <NUM> is in close contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is maintained when moving the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. Therefore, the biometric authentication device <NUM> including the operation mechanism 17D can improve an acquisition efficiency of biometric authentication information.

Further, as is clear from the operation mechanism 17D, the moving direction of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> for the operation of the switch 16b by the operation mechanism in the present embodiment is not limited to the pressing direction. That is, as long as the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> can be moved in a state in which the finger <NUM> is in contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, a direction other than that of the above-described operation mechanisms can be appropriately set.

Further, for example, in each of the operation mechanisms <NUM> described above, an example of a momentary system that closes the switch 16b only while the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is being operated has been described as an operation system, but the operation system is not limited thereto. For example, the operation mechanism <NUM> may have a configuration of an alternate system in which once the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is operated, the switch 16b is turned on, the on state of the switch 16b is maintained even if the operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is released, and the switch 16b is turned off by operating the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> again.

Further, for example, the operation mechanism <NUM> may not be of an alternate system, and the switch 16b may be of an alternate type. That is, the switch 16b may be turned on when operated once, and may be turned off when operated next.

An example of the switch 16b and operation mechanism <NUM> of an alternate system is a toggle switch, but other configurations may be employed. For example, the operation mechanism <NUM> may be a combination of a mechanism of a membrane, pantograph, or mechanical system and a mechanism of an alternate system in which a movement in a returning direction is restricted when pressed down and the restriction on the movement in the returning direction is released when pressed down next to move the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> to the initial position.

When the switch 16b or the operation mechanism <NUM> of the alternate system is used, the biometric authentication device <NUM> may include a switching portion that forcibly switches the switch 16b from the ON state to the OFF state after a predetermined time has elapsed. For example, since the switching portion can prevent power from being continuously supplied to the processor <NUM> due to forgetting to switch the switch 16b to the OFF state after switching the switch 16b to the ON state, it is effective for power saving. The switching portion may have a configuration in which the switch 16b is electrically switched or mechanically switched as long as the switch 16b can be switched to the OFF state after a predetermined time has elapsed.

Further, the biometric authentication device <NUM> described above has a configuration in which the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is operated by bringing a finger into contact with the sensor. Therefore, in order to prevent an erroneous operation in which the switch 16b is operated by an object, etc. other than the finger <NUM> coming into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the biometric authentication device <NUM> may further include a lock mechanism that locks the operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> or a cover that covers the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. With such a configuration, it is possible to prevent the power supply circuit <NUM> from being closed and power from being supplied from the battery <NUM> to the processor <NUM> when dirt adhering to the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is cleaned off or due to an erroneous operation, etc..

In addition, in the above-described examples, the configuration of the housing <NUM> in which the groove <NUM> is provided on one outer surface has been described, but the configuration is not limited thereto. For example, a configuration in which grooves are provided on a pair of outer surfaces facing each other may be employed, or a configuration in which grooves are provided on three surfaces may be employed. Further, the shape of the groove <NUM> is not limited to a shape extending in one direction, and may be, for example, a shape following the shape of a finger supporting the housing <NUM>. Furthermore, the housing <NUM> may be formed without a groove. However, in a case where the same user performs biometric authentication, in order to bring the same finger into contact with the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> in the same posture, a configuration in which a groove, etc. is provided as a guiding portion that guides the position of the fingers in any part of the housing <NUM> is preferable. In addition, the housing <NUM> is not limited to a cubic shape as long as it has a size that fits in the fingers of one hand, and may be, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped shape or a spherical shape.

In the above-described examples, the biometric authentication device <NUM> has the configuration in which power is supplied to the processor <NUM> to exhibit the biometric authentication function by touching the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> with a finger or further operating the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> after the touch. However, the biometric authentication device <NUM> may include a notification device that notifies the outside of execution of a predetermined process such as power supply to the processor <NUM> or exhibition of a biometric authentication function. Such a biometric authentication device <NUM> includes, for example, a light source such as an LED that emits light and/or a sound source such as a speaker that emits sound as the notification device. Then, in the biometric authentication device <NUM>, the processor <NUM> controls the notification device to notify the outside of execution of each process by light or sound. The biometric authentication device <NUM> may have a configuration such that it can be determined which process is being executed by changing a pattern of light or sound.

In the above-described examples, the biometric authentication device <NUM> has the configuration in which power is supplied to the processor <NUM> to exhibit a biometric authentication function by touching the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> with a finger or further operating the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> after the touch. However, the biometric authentication device <NUM> may have a configuration in which a biometric authentication function is exhibited by operating the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> twice.

Specifically, for example, when a finger is pressed against the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> to perform the first operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the switch 16b is operated by the operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the circuit part 16a of the power supply circuit <NUM>, which is a power source circuit, is closed, and the processor <NUM> and the battery <NUM> are connected in the biometric authentication device <NUM>. As a result, power is supplied to the processor <NUM>.

Then, once the finger is released from the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the finger is pressed against the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> again to perform the second operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, and the switch 16b is operated by the movement of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. When the processor <NUM> to which power is supplied detects this operation of the switch 16b, the processor <NUM> executes a program stored in the SE <NUM> and executes functions as the authentication processing part 11a, the authentication data holding part 11b, and the authentication data reporting part 11c. Then, the processor <NUM> performs biometric authentication processing such as fingerprint authentication of the finger pressed against the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, and transmits biometric authentication information to the terminal <NUM>. As described above, the biometric authentication device <NUM> may have a configuration in which power is supplied to the processor <NUM> by the first operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, and the processor <NUM> performs biometric authentication processing by the second operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>.

When power is supplied to the processor <NUM> by the first operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the biometric authentication device <NUM> may notify the outside of information indicating that power has been supplied to the processor <NUM> by sound or light using the notification device. Similarly, when the biometric authentication function is being executed by the processor <NUM> by the second operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, information on the execution of the biometric authentication function may be notified to the outside by sound or light using the notification device.

Although the biometric authentication device <NUM> of the above-described examples has a configuration in which power is supplied to the processor <NUM> by the first operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> and the processor <NUM> executes a program by the second operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the configuration is not limited thereto. For example, by the first operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, a part of the circuit part 16a of the power supply circuit <NUM>, which is a power source circuit, may be closed, the processor <NUM> and the battery <NUM> may be connected, and power may be supplied to the processor <NUM>. Then, by the second operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, a part of the circuit part 16a of the power supply circuit <NUM>, which is a power source circuit, may be closed, and the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>, the SE <NUM>, and the wireless communication I/F <NUM> may be connected to the battery <NUM>, for example, so as to shift to a state where biometric authentication can be performed.

In these examples, the biometric authentication device <NUM> has a configuration in which power is supplied to the processor <NUM> and a biometric authentication function is executed when the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is operated twice, but the configuration is not limited thereto.

For example, a configuration in which when the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is pressed with a finger, the movement of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is detectable by the switch 16b, a sensor, etc. at two portions in the moving direction of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> may be employed. That is, the biometric authentication device <NUM> may sequentially perform the power supply to the processor <NUM> and the execution of the biometric authentication function with different pressing amounts of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> in one operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>.

As a specific example, in the biometric authentication device <NUM>, after the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is touched with a finger, the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is operated by an operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> such as pressing down, whereby the movement amount of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> increases. When the movement amount reaches a predetermined movement amount, first, the circuit part 16a of the power supply circuit <NUM>, which is a power source circuit, is closed, and the processor <NUM> and the battery <NUM> are connected. As a result, power is supplied to the processor <NUM>.

When the operation of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> is further continued, the movement amount of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> further increases, and when the predetermined movement amount is reached, the switch 16b is operated by the moved biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. Then, when the processor <NUM> detects the operation of the switch 16b, the processor <NUM> executes a program stored in the SE <NUM> and executes functions as the authentication processing part 11a, the authentication data holding part 11b, and the authentication data reporting part 11c.

As described above, the biometric authentication device <NUM> may have a configuration in which the power supply to the processor <NUM> and the execution of the biometric authentication function are sequentially performed according to the movement amount of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM>. In the case of such a biometric authentication device <NUM>, a configuration in which the operation mechanism <NUM> generates a click sensation in a finger pressing the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> each time the movement amount of the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> reaches a predetermined movement amount may be employed.

The above-described biometric authentication device <NUM> supplies power to the processor <NUM> and exhibits a fingerprint authentication function by the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> being touched with a finger or the biometric authentication sensor <NUM> being further operated after the touch. Thus, for example, the biometric authentication device <NUM> may include a notification means that notifies the start and end of the biometric authentication function by light, sound, etc. However, from the viewpoint of power saving, it is preferable to use a configuration with low power consumption for the notification means.

Claim 1:
A biometric authentication device (<NUM>) comprising:
a biometric authentication sensor (<NUM>) configured to be brought into contact with any finger of a hand and acquire biometric authentication information from the finger;
a housing (<NUM>) accommodating the biometric authentication sensor (<NUM>), including an opening (<NUM>) exposing the biometric authentication sensor (<NUM>) to a part of an outer surface, and configured to be held by the fingers of the hand, the housing (<NUM>) having a cubic shape that can be fitted into a sphere having a diameter of <NUM>;
a battery (<NUM>) provided in the housing (<NUM>); and
a power supply circuit (<NUM>) configured to start supply of power from the battery (<NUM>) by the biometric authentication sensor (<NUM>) being pressed down in a state where the finger is in contact with the biometric authentication sensor (<NUM>);
wherein a groove (<NUM>) is provided in the housing (<NUM>), the groove <NUM> being provided in one surface (19b) of the four surfaces adjacent to a surface (19a) with the opening (<NUM>) where the biometric authentication sensor (<NUM>) is exposed.