Preface
Throughout history, humankind has been progressing steadily in the generation of knowledge and applications using such findings. In this context, different revolutions have emerged across the years, such as in agriculture, industry, technology, science, and, most recently, information. Information technologies refer to the analysis, structuring and interpretation of vast amounts of data and information available as an endless resource for research, and development in different fields. Healthcare represents one among many other fields with increasing applications of information technologies.Biometric systems are some of the most notorious representatives of this type of technology. These systems obtain relevant information regarding our bodies and behaviors. Many innovative solutions under this scheme generate biosensors, the development of personalized healthcare services, intelligent fitness applications, wearable devices, and algorithms for predicting pathologies and health risks based on readings and analyses of physiological features, among other data. Thus, biometric systems provide the means to identify, authenticate, and model individuals in a reliable way through unique physiological and behavioral features. Ultimately, such systems generate information and knowledge about the health and behavior of humans.Biometrics has been an essential component in security, military, and criminology, and new types of biometric systems are emerging as essential platforms in healthcare, smart cities, and industrial business. Former and seminal applications in health, ergonomics, transportation, industry, education, neuromarketing, and arts could lead these efforts to develop biometric systems to become an everyday asset. Such systems will strongly support the health, wellness, and performance of humans. These are current opportunities as the reliability and wearability of these technologies dare and inspire our researchers to look for innovative solutions for humanity.This book presents a compilation of biometric technologies studied and developed in various research groups in Tecnologico de Monterrey, Mexico. A summary of biometric systems as a whole provides a starting point for all readers. It explains the principles behind physiological and behavioral biometrics. It explores different types of commercial and experimental technology and current and future applications in the fields of security, military, criminology, healthcare, education, business, and marketing.
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