Worlds first 3D fingerprint

The 3-D finger surface, complete with all the ridges and valleys that make up the human fingerprint, is made using a 3-D printer. It is called as a fingerprint "phantom."

"In health care, a 3-D heart or kidney can be created. "Because the dimensions are known, they can be put into a scanner and the imaging system can be calibrated."

While the 3-D model doesn't yet have the exact texture or feel of a real finger, it could advance fingerprint sensing and matching technology.

"Tools like this would help improve the overall accuracy of fingerprint-matching systems, which eventually leads to better security in applications ranging from law enforcement to mobile phone unlock,".