The identification of fingerprint images mainly requires matching the features of the fingerprint in question with those stored in a database. Since fingerprint identification system may receive noisy and distorted fingerprint image inputs, an efficient and robust enhancement of fingerprint images is essential for reliable fingerprint identification. In this study, we propose a decimation-free directional filter bank (DFB) structure. It provides output in the form of directional images as opposed to directional sub-bands provided in previous DFBs. The presence of directional images facilitates any further spatial processing if needed. However, we have to prepare a fingerprint image before it can be given as input to the proposed DFB structure due to the fact that fingerprints acquired are low in contrast. The preparation steps involve removing non-uniform illumination from the image. Then proposed DFB structure outputs directional images. The final enhanced result is constructed on a block-by-block basis by comparing energy of all the directional images and picking one that provides maximum energy.
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