Aurora introduces AI-based biometric access control system

UK-based Aurora introduced a new method of biometric control for existing access control systems. The solution is focused on high-value areas that already use existing systems that do not adopt facial recognition. Moreover, it is designed to supplement those systems in order to add and improve authentication.

The system utilizes IR sensors with ceramic LEDs matched to a small form factor PC. The user would use their access card normally and the system would scan their face in order to verify their identity. The IR system is claimed to be more effective than existing standard cameras because it does not depend on lighting conditions.

The second aspect of the system is more complex. It uses deep learning techniques to learn how to identify faces through experience, and the company believes that it will be even better than existing systems – and potentially even better than other humans. The company also claims that this is the first time that security industry has seen deep learning and neural networks mated to an access control system.

Regardless of the claims, the system is an example of one of the ways that biometrics can be an unobtrusive method for access verification. Facial recognition systems in particular require no interaction by the user, and provide at the very least an independent verification system. While the company’s initial target market is in high-security and -value locations, if the systems are successful there is no reason why the company or its competitors can use the business model as a way into existing residential or security markets.