Japan Display in collaboration with researchers from the University of Tokyo has developed a new type of Biometric Sensor which is ideal for both authentication and vital sign measurement. Using the low-temperature polycrystalline silicon thin-film transistors (LTPS TFT) technology with high mobility and high-sensitivity organic photodetectors, the sensor is capable of measuring not only pulse wave distribution, which requires high-speed readout, but also biometric information like fingerprints and veins which require high-resolution imaging.
The newly developed sensor is lightweight and bendable. This 15m thick sensor is capable of presenting high-speed readout (41 frames per second) and high-resolution imaging of 508 pixels per inch. The sensor can read out a photocurrent of less than 10 pA with low noise and can obtain static biometric signals i.e. images of fingerprints and veins via soft contact with the skin. It can map a pulse wave by electronically selecting the best measurement location by analyzing the area distribution.
The sensor comes with an unbreakable electronic circuitry and can be placed on a human-skin like a tattoo. As of now, the company is focusing on investigating the integration of imaging technology into consumer wearable, in particular smartwatches. Besides, it is also exploring potential applications of technology in the medical field.
