Discipline: Technology and Engineering
Subcategory: Computer Science & Information Systems
Nicole Jefferson - Virginia State University
Co-Author(s): Micheal Bryant and Britton Bean, Virginia State University, Petersburg, VA
Typically, homes and businesses are protected by lock and key. The problem with this securing method is the thwarting and ease of penetration by a skilled intruder. Home- and businessowners could benefit from a new standard of basic universal security which can be utilized just as easily as, if not better than, the lock and key method. By using relatively new technologies known as radio frequency identification (RFID) systems and biometric fingerprint scanners, we can super cede the security range of the current lock and key technology. The design basis is to use simple and affordable technologies to provide top-notch industrial strength protection to the home and commercial market. Treasure Application Protection System (T.A.P.S.) uses biometric data in combination with radio frequency identification (RFID) to allow access to restricted areas. This combined measure offers the security of a two-step verification system, making entry difficult for intruders. Biometrics, coupled with RFID, has the advantage of not only serving as a lock mechanism, but of tracking, in real-time, movements throughout the building. The verification process requires the placement of a RFID-enabled card in front of the reader, after which a biometric fingerprint scanner will verify the identity of the user and either allow or deny access, while simultaneously recording the successful or failed attempt for access in a central location. The solution to the archaic lock and key securing measure was to use Arduino to combine a RFID reader and writer with a biometric fingerprint scanner into a system that can be installed onto an existing lock and key combo system. Serving as a securing upgrade, the RFID reader/writer system and fingerprint scanner will be operated by a wall-mounted control panel which will permit users to attach tags, as well as to determine and modify which tags have access to which systems. Additionally, T.A.P.S successfully created an Arduino code which will permit one user to enroll another user into the system. Troubleshooting the Treasure Application Protection System (T.A.P.S) was quite complex. Within T.A.P.S, the fingerprint reader contains a 10-point finger-locator. During prototype testing, the finger printer short-circuited due to an unstable power source. The Crowduino was used as a 5V power supply for the fingerprint reader; however, during testing, its voltage did not remain constant. The Crowduino was plugged into the servomotor, as well, requiring it to share voltage with the fingerprint reader. Future designing and testing will implement a separate power supply for components requiring a higher voltage.
Funder Acknowledgement(s): Virginia State University College of Engineering and Technology; Special thanks to my senior project co- authors, our advisors, Dr. Leigh-Mack, Dr. Ali Ansari, Dr. Coray Davis, and Derrick Robinson. Funding provided by VSU College of Engineering and Technology.
Faculty Advisor: Joe Dollete, jdollete@vsu.edu