Vista EY2T: A Motorized Biometric ID Device

Revolutionizing Biometric Identification with Innovative Design

The inspiration behind the Vista EY2T was the need for a simple and user-friendly device for capturing a person's identity. The designers aimed to create a device that would eliminate any discomfort associated with the process. The rotating form of the EY2T reduces apparent motion when aiming at the eyes, ensuring a comfortable experience for the user. The black face of the device unifies the nine front sensors, creating a visually appealing and aesthetically pleasing design. The cylindrical shape allows for rotation, while the spherical ends add a friendly touch.

What sets the Vista EY2T apart from other biometric ID devices is its motorized functionality. The device scans the field of view for faces and uses motors to rotate and aim directly at the eyes for the best capture. This eliminates the need for manual aiming and allows for capture at a greater range. The wide spread of infrared (IR) LEDs further enhances the device's capabilities, enabling capture at distances of 3 to 6 feet. The EY2T also features autofocus, distance sensors, and a second camera for capturing the entire face with a flash.

The realization of the Vista EY2T involves a combination of thermoset injection molded plastics, CNC-produced metal support arms, internal bearings and motors, printed circuit boards, glass lenses, and rubber strain reliefs. The use of opaque PC ABS material and semitransparent IR light transmissive Bayer plastic for the front lens adds to the device's functionality and visual appeal.

With its tripod configuration, the Vista EY2T measures 215mm wide, 116mm tall, and 77mm deep. When using the alternative wall-mounted outer housing, the dimensions are 199mm x 108mm x 51mm. The device can be mounted either standalone or on a wall, providing versatility for different environments.

The Vista EY2T's interaction with users is seamless and efficient. When a subject approaches, the device recognizes faces and locates the eyes. The motors then pivot to aim the cameras at the face, while the LEDs illuminate the iris. The distance sensor helps the camera focus, resulting in high-resolution images of both eyes. The second camera captures the entire face with a flash. These images are then processed and sent for identification.

The Vista EY2T project was conceptualized in San Carlos, CA, in early 2013 and developed jointly in Bristol, UK, and California over the course of a year. Plastic housings were created in Carlsbad, CA, and Shenzhen, China, while the electronics were produced in Singapore.

Through qualitative interviews and extensive research, the designers ensured that the Vista EY2T addressed users' concerns about biometric capture. The design tone strikes a balance between seriousness and friendliness, making the device approachable. The designers drew inspiration from friendly robot styles, such as Eve from Wall-E, to create a non-threatening design. They also integrated new biometric technologies, such as face tracking, to stay ahead of the competition.

The Vista EY2T overcame several challenges during its development. The designers had to simplify the exterior to create a non-threatening design, despite the intimidating number of sensors on the front surface. The use of IR light transmissive plastics and careful positioning of the sensors helped achieve this goal. Designing a form that allowed motorized rotation without exposing the mechanics was another challenge. Additionally, the wide variety of potential markets led to multiple mounting options and variations of the design to accommodate different sensor options and internal positions.

The Vista EY2T has received recognition for its exceptional design. It was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Security, Safety, and Surveillance Products Design category in 2015. This prestigious award is given to designs that showcase outstanding expertise, innovation, and artistic skill. The Vista EY2T's technical characteristics and remarkable level of excellence make it a truly remarkable product.