Aurora unveils access control technology straight out of sci-fi

Facial recognition specialist Aurora unveiled a world-first in access control technology: a system that allows registered users to open doors simply by looking at a sensor, with no need for any additional verification such as tokens, cards or PINs.

The breakthrough access control system integrates Aurora's AI-powered FaceSentinel facial recognition product with Fastlane gates and Door Detective anti-tailgating products from IDL.

"Normally 'contact'-type biometrics such as fingerprint scanning start to introduce delays into the throughput, but here we are demonstrating the exact opposite, with users able to glide through the gates without the delays associated with presenting cards or stopping to comply with finger or hand scanners," said Gary James, Head of Sales and Marketing at Aurora

FaceSentinel is the world's first biometric access control authentication product powered by deep learning; the system uses AI and infrared light to achieve unparalleled facial recognition speed, accuracy and reliability. Aurora's facial recognition technology is - among other places - used throughout Heathrow Airport for boarding pass verification.

Deep learning is a pioneering technique used to create a highly optimized artificial intelligence. It works by first creating a blank "brain": an artificial neural network. This brain is then trained to recognize faces by presenting it with millions of face image examples, enabling it to become more experienced, faster and more accurate at the facial recognition task than any human or existing technology could be. Aurora's deep learning capacity is the result of work done by its R&D department - a team of six PhD facial recognition experts led by Dr Tom Heseltine.

The cutting edge technology behind FaceSentinel also includes the use of infrared cameras to overcome the inherent challenge presented to facial recognition by fluctuations in natural light.

Integrated Design is the designer and manufacturer of Fastlane Turnstiles and Door Detective anti-tailgating products, and has over 30 years of experience and a worldwide distribution and installation network.