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Face recognition package increases accuracy

Wed, Jan 13, 2021

Image sensing libraries used in the OKAO Vision face recognition package by Omron Electronic Components Europe are claimed to provide “highly accurate” deep learning face recognition. Developers can deploy OKAO Vision on their choice of embedded hardware platform.

The deep learning libraries of OKAO Vision Face Recognition V9.0 address applications that require accuracy under various conditions including poor lighting and when the face is at various angles relative to the detector. These include security and access control, time and attendance monitoring, login/wake up systems, and camera auto focus/auto-exposure control.

The platform can be used to monitor attendance at face to face and online meetings, which will facilitate contact tracing and verification of attendance. Another application will be in automotive design, for example in driver recognition to manage features such as seat adjustment.

The face recognition libraries achieve “excellent” evaluation results with various skin tones and face sizes, says Omron. It delivers a low error rate down to image size as small as 40 pixels. Benchmark testing with Intel and Arm processors has demonstrated that OKAO Vision Face Recognition V9.0 maintains exceptionally fast recognition times despite the enhanced accuracy, reports Omron. This ensures that users in access control applications for example will be barely conscious of the need to wait for validation of their identity.

The complete OKAO Vision Face Recognition V9.0 package contains modular libraries that provide sensing capabilities including expression estimation, age and gender estimation, and photographic image beautification including red eye reduction, facial shaping, eye enlargement, and blemish removal. Users can combine various modules’ functionalities to add value to applications.

OKAO Vision is available as a set of software libraries and can integrate with Linux, Windows and iOS operating systems. Users can leverage Omron’s machine vision package in embedded systems running on custom hardware. Off-the-shelf libraries are already available for various platforms, adds Omron.

http://components.omron.eu

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Glucose measuring wristband means non-stop monitoring

Mon, Jan 11, 2021

At this year’s CES, Quantum Operation will showcase what it claims is the world’s first glucose measuring wristband which enables non-stop monitoring.

The Tokyo-based healthcare IoT start-up explains that the non-invasive glucose monitor uses patented spectrum sensing technology which enables the monitoring sensor to accurately measure glucose in a person’s bloodstream through the skin while being worn around the wrist. The monitor eliminates the need for daily needle uses for diabetic patients, making it more convenient – and pain-free – for users.

The company will also highlight its oxygen saturation (SpO2) measuring sensor that can be worn around the wrist.

The non-invasive 24/7 monitoring relies on Quantum Operation’s core technologies that include spectrometer materials. One of which is designed to emit an optimal spectrum, and another that is highly responsive to target spectra. The wristbands also employ firmware that efficiently extracts targeted data by cancelling noise.

Quantum Operation explains that these technologies can be used to measure all types of vital signs, ranging from heart rate to electrocardiography (ECG). Patients’ conditions can be monitored remotely for convenience and enabling them to continue their normal daily activity as much as possible.

“Until now, sticking a need into your finger or arm has been the only available method for accurately measuring your glucose level,” said CEO Kazuma Kato. “Our wristband will change that, making the painful daily routine unnecessary for all diabetic patients.”

He added: “Our core technologies also enable healthcare businesses to compile accurate big data and provide better solutions for disease control and management. We are very excited to introduce these technologies at CES 2021.”

Quantum Operation is a Tokyo-based, healthcare IoT start up focused on making vital sign measurement as easy and painless as possible. It says its mission is to help people enjoy a healthier and longer lives. Its proprietary technologies are used to provide solutions for both patients and healthcare providers.

https://quantum-op.co.jp

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Intel RealSense ID processes images locally and encrypts for privacy

Fri, Jan 08, 2021

Privacy was a top priority in the design of the Intel RealSense ID facial authentication, explains the company at its launch.

Intel RealSense ID combines an active depth sensor with a specialised neural network designed to deliver secure, accurate and user-aware facial authentication. It was designed and built specifically for user protection and processes all facial images locally and encrypts all user data, explains the company.

Intel RealSense ID works with various access systems, including smart locks, access control, point of sale sites, ATMs and kiosks.

“Intel RealSense ID combines purpose-built hardware and software with a dedicated neural network designed to deliver a secure facial authentication platform that users can trust,” explained Sagi Ben Moshe, Intel corporate vice president and general manager of Emerging Growth and Incubation.

No network set up is required and enrolment is simple, says Intel, for accurate, natural facial authentication to simplify secure entry. Using only a glance, users are able to quickly unlock what’s important to them. Intel RealSense ID combines active depth with a specialised neural network, a dedicated SoC and embedded secure element to encrypt and process user data quickly and safely.

To ensure continued ease of use, Intel RealSense ID also adapts to users over time as they change physical features, such as facial hair and glasses. The system works in various lighting conditions for people with a wide range of heights or complexions, reassures Intel.

It has been developed because traditional authentication methods leave users vulnerable to ID theft and security breaches. Companies and individuals are turning to facial authentication technology to meet the highest levels of security and privacy.

Suitable for use in finance, healthcare and smart access control, Intel RealSense ID has built-in anti-spoofing technology to protect against false entry attempts using photographs, videos or masks. It also provides a one-in-1-million false acceptance rate.

To protect user’s privacy, Intel RealSense ID processes all facial images locally and encrypts all user data. It is also only activated through user awareness and will not authenticate unless prompted by a pre-registered user.

http://www.intel.com

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P9418 is industry’s first 60W wireless power receiver IC, says Renesas

Fri, Jan 08, 2021

The single chip P9418 IC combines WattShare technology for high power density smartphone and mobile device charging. The 60W wireless power receiver is claimed to deliver faster wireless charging experiences for smartphones, laptops and notebook devices and in the industry’s highest power density. The WattShare technology enables quick and convenient charging on the go beyond smartphones, including device charging for a variety of portable computing devices, says Renesas.

The P9418 is an integrated wireless power transmitter/receiver IC (TRx) that can be configured to transmit or receive an AC power signal through magnetic induction. The P9418 provides an upgrade path for the P9415 and also delivers advanced telemetry and proprietary charging protocols required for high power applications.

It delivers up to 60W as a receiver and in WattShare (TRx) mode has up to 10W Tx capability. It has an embedded 32-bit Arm Cortex-M0 processor and Renesas claims it has best-in-class IOUT current sensing accuracy for foreign object detection. There is also a non-volatile memory for firmware and device function updates.

Bi-directional communications support proprietary authentication with encryption and the P9418 is WPC 1.2.4-compliant and various proprietary charging modes. It supports I2C 400kHz standard interface and general purpose I/Os.

Designers can also combine the P9418 wireless charging receiver with Renesas’ power management portfolio, including its USB Type-C power delivery and battery charging to accelerate development.

The P9418 60W wireless power receiver is available now.

http://www.renesas.com

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