Access control system using Face Recognition and Radio Frequency Identification(RFID)

This post is about the project I did in my final year as an undergraduate. Okay…so let me quickly share with you what prompted this project. I discovered that there is a need for increased privacy and enhanced security levels in our organizations today which can be achieved with the use of technology.

A lot of methods have been employed over the years like employing security personnel, using door locks, and even RFID tags but you will also agree with me that these methods/technologies have their various drawbacks. Passwords can be easily gotten, door locks can be broken and also RFID tags can be stolen, Oops! So what’s the way out?

You guessed as much! There is a need for more advanced and secured technology and this is what I have employed here- a two-way authentication system to grant access to authorized users only.

So let’s dive into some of the things needed to achieve this;

1. Basic Knowledge of Python programming language— I used python for my project. You don’t necessarily have to use Python, C is also a good alternative.
2. Open Computer Vision (OpenCV) Library — OpenCV uses machine learning algorithms for face detection.
3. Raspberry Pi 3+ with installed Raspbian OS— This is the microcontroller that controls the system more like a powerhouse.
4. Raspberry pi camera
5. Pi 3.5in PC LCD Touch Screen Monitor
6. RFID reader and tags
7. Solenoid lock
8. Power supply unit(PSU)

I will be explaining the major steps involved in developing a prototype of this project.

1. Design Specification- An accurate design is expedient for the success of a project like this. You need to design a circuit diagram and a clear flowchart that represents the system. Proteus Simulation Software can be used.
2. Modular Testing of each component- Connect each of your components to the microcontroller and test if they are functioning as expected. Ensure they are properly connected to prevent short circuit/ bridging. A breadboard can be used solely for this purpose.
3. System Coupling- After you have tested each component on the breadboard, connect the circuit together on Veroboard or Printed Circuit Board(PCB).
4. Programming — You need to program the microcontroller to carry out the desired function, in this case, access control using Face recognition and RFID. Check here for more details on this.
5. System testing — After you have programmed the microcontroller, it is important for you to test the system against your initial designs and ensure that it meets the required specification.
6. System Packaging — Irrespective of the technicalities of a project, it can only be appreciated by the commoners/users when it has been packaged well.

Prototype of the Access Control System

Hopefully, this article will help developers planning to prototype an embedded system like this. Good luck with yours! Feel free to drop your comments and questions.