3M Cogent's Latent Fingerprint Algorithm Achieves New Accuracy Milestone

National Institute of Standards and Technology Recognizes State-of-the-Art Algorithm in New Report

3M Cogent’s latent fingerprint searching algorithm technology achieved the highest accuracy score in the Image and Extended Feature (LE) subset of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) latest Evaluation of Latent Fingerprint Technologies: Extended Feature Sets (ELFT-EFS Evaluation #2), as published in table 10B of the report.

NIST is a non-regulatory federal agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce that works to advance measurement science, standards and technology, often in close collaboration with industry. This report summarizes results of a latent matching capability test, a significant and critical tool used in protecting national security and public safety—which is widely deployed globally, and instrumental in the identification of terrorists and criminals.

The evaluation involved latents, which are non-visible fingerprints found on a surface and processed into a viewable image. These images are then used for matching against fingerprints in a database. NIST’s ELFT-EFS testing program evaluates the accuracy of latent matching by using features within the fingerprint marked by experienced professional latent fingerprint examiners. The test assesses the accuracy of latent feature-based matching technology, comparing searches using images alone with searches using different feature sets.

“3M Cogent’s state-of-the-art algorithm is a result of 20 years of dedicated, applied technical research and development. We strive to push the accuracy and speed performance of our fingerprint identification technology,” stated Matt Pepe, chief operating officer of 3M Cogent, Inc. “The study also demonstrated that our algorithm has the most matching candidates ranked in the number one position. This is a key factor in improving productivity for our users and providing a scalable system over time in terms of accuracy.”

3M Cogent brings fingerprint algorithm technology and performance to mission-critical identification systems around the world. The algorithm used for the ELFT-EFS is now available as a system upgrade option for law enforcement customers.

For more information on NIST Evaluation of Latent Fingerprint Technologies: Extended Feature Sets, visit http://www.nist.gov/itl/iad/ig/elft-efs.cfm.

About 3M Security Systems Division
3M Security Systems Division is a trusted partner and industry leader in delivering end-to-end, innovative security solutions to businesses and governments worldwide—helping to ensure the security of people, documents and goods. 3M uses its broadband knowledge, in-depth experience and technological expertise to help solve an array of security challenges, including brand protection, product security, efficient passenger check-in, secure ID and passport document issuance and hardware and software system solutions for border management. 3M Cogent adds to these capabilities with biometric identification solutions for governments, law enforcement agencies and commercial enterprises. 3M Cogent strives to provide the highest quality identification systems, products and services with leading technology, accuracy and speed. 3M Security Systems technologies are used in over 100 countries around the world.

About 3M
3M captures the spark of new ideas and transforms them into thousands of ingenious products. Our culture of creative collaboration inspires a never-ending stream of powerful technologies that make life better. 3M is the innovation company that never stops inventing. With $30 billion in sales, 3M employs 84,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 65 countries. For more information, visit www.3M.com or follow @3MNews on Twitter.

3M is a trademark of 3M Company.
NIST is a trademark of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Agency of the Government of the United States.

 

Karwoski & Courage Public RelationsBrooke Baxley, 612-342-9817b.baxley@creativepr.comor3MConnie Thompson, 651-733-89143M Public Relations

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