Tascent InSight One 2016-2017

Designers: Dan Harden and Cole Derby, Whipsaw, Inc., San Jose, California, USA
Manufacturer: Tascent, Inc., Los Gatos, California, USA

InSight One is an iris and face recognition system that uses biometric technology to provide conclusive identity verification in airports, borders, and secure facilities. Users approach InSight One and in seconds the device automatically captures biometric images from the user, verifies identity in real-time, and displays a pass or no pass symbol. In our security-challenged world this friendly design brings a more comfortable user experience at checkpoints, helps speed up queues, and reduces stress while adhering to strict safety measures. Delivering superb biometric performance in a compact, human-centric design, InSight One is changing the future of travel, access, and identity.

Airport and border security is becoming one of societies biggest problems. Long security lines, humiliating body scans, and hasty TSA checks that are prone to human error have resulted in compromised safety and a nervous travelling public. Tascent foresaw a solution to many of these problems by combining new iris and face recognition technology with intuitive design.

The design solution integrates Tascent’s proprietary technology into a compact, easy-to-use device that merges into the existing security infrastructure. An outstanding user experience is critical considering how much anxiety one feels when going through security. Therefore, the UX elements are simple, smart, and symbol-based to avoid language issues. Overall, the device operation is intuitive and easy to use for travelers everywhere.

Iris and face scanning technology has been around for a decade but never before has it been designed or used like Insight One. It is new, unique and innovative, ranging from its compact form factor, its simple clean appearance, flawless functionality, and perhaps best of all its hands-free intuitive operation.

Here are a few of its unique features:

- Both the iris and face scanning cameras are located behind the front glass oval faceplate and almost invisible, helping to reduce “picture taking” anxiety.
- The angled-in oval light ring around the perimeter gently floods the face with even light and changes color with traveller clearance status.
- The user interface is unique and simple. For example, translucent icons magically light up on the black glass surface when needed; an LCD turns on only when necessary; color is used on the light ring as a UI prompt; and UI details gently fade in and out making it feel alive.
- A unique mounting system includes a short desk mount; a floor standing pole mount, and a wall mount.
- A contrast exists between the highly precise, advanced imaging technology inside and the seamless elegant design on the outside.
- Constructed of die cast aluminum and glass so it is extremely tough, a requirement for a commercial space such as an airport.

Traditional iris scanning devices look intimidating and often times provide a very intrusive experience. InSight One on the other hand, has a human-centric approach to design and usability; it is appealing to the eye while delivering a fully-automated, contact-less process that lasts only 2 seconds. The easy-to-read icons and soft transitions of light also make for a calming experience in what could be a stressful environment.

The process: when users approach Insight One the white light ring around the perimeter turns on automatically - but it illuminates gently, giving your eyes a chance to adjust. Your reflection can be seen in the black front glass, letting you know you are in the right position. A large bracket icon then appears around the main camera and the simultaneous iris/face scan takes only two seconds. If you are approved for passage, a pass checkmark appears and the light ring glows green. If you are not approved, an X icon appears and the light ring glows red. A five-inch display is hidden behind the black glass and only illuminates if further instruction is needed.

Developed with the comfort of the user in mind, InSight One provides an overall delightful identity verification experience.