Configuration of the sensor network for personal identification using sole pressure distribution data

To provide personal services in a ubiquitous environment, it is necessary to identify users without giving a psychological pressure to them. This paper proposes a configuration of the sensor network used to identify a user based on his or her sole pressure distribution on a sensor mat that uses a hetero-core optical fiber. Specifically, it presents a filtering algorithm used to determine the pressure and the center of gravity of the sole, which are significant and stable observational data useful for personal identification. In addition, it discusses the assignment of functions to the sensor node and the home server, and the communication protocols used. Finally, it evaluates the sensor network configuration based on experiments with an experimental personal identification system developed.