Niamh Fitzgerald

Title: Niamh Fitzgerald: Innovator in Iris Image Acquisition Technology

Introduction

Niamh Fitzgerald is a prominent inventor based in Galway, Ireland. She has made significant contributions to the field of iris image acquisition technology, holding 2 patents that showcase her innovative approach to mobile imaging systems.

Latest Patents

One of her latest patents is an iris image acquisition system designed for mobile devices. This system includes a lens assembly arranged along an optical axis, which is configured to form an image of at least one iris of a subject positioned in front of the lens. The image sensor is designed to acquire the formed image, while the lens assembly features a first lens refractive element and at least one second lens element. This configuration converges incident radiation to the first refractive element, which has a variable thickness to counteract shifts in the formed image along the optical axis. This ensures that different areas of the image sensor remain in focus across a range of iris-lens assembly distances, providing sufficient contrast for iris detail recognition.

Another notable patent involves an iris image acquisition system that comprises an image sensor with an array of pixels sensitive to near-infrared (NIR) wavelengths. This system includes at least one NIR light source capable of emitting light at different discrete NIR wavelengths. A processor connects to both the image sensor and the NIR light source to acquire image information under specific illumination conditions. The lens assembly in this patent consists of multiple lens elements with a total track length of no more than 4.7 mm, each made from a material with a refractive index inversely proportional to the wavelength. This design balances axial image shifts caused by changes in object distance and illumination wavelength.

Career Highlights

Niamh Fitzgerald has established herself as a key figure in the field of imaging technology. Her work at Fotonation Limited has allowed her to develop cutting-edge solutions that enhance the capabilities of mobile devices in capturing detailed iris images.

Collaborations

Throughout her career, Niamh has collaborated with notable professionals in her field, including Christopher Dainty and Alexander Goncharov. These partnerships have contributed to her innovative projects and advancements in iris imaging technology.

Conclusion

Niamh Fitzgerald's contributions to iris image acquisition technology reflect her dedication to innovation and excellence. Her patents demonstrate her ability to merge technical expertise with practical applications, making her a significant figure