Face Recognition on Chip (FROC) makes the access process in locations such as ports safer, faster, and more efficient. Users can easily verify themselves by looking into the camera. The time savings are significant and can be up to 90% The hit rate is almost 100%! The 20Face Software Development Kit forms the basis for this award-winning access solution.

Ports present an interesting paradox: on the one hand, as many goods and people as possible must be processed in the shortest amount of time; on the other hand, unauthorized individuals must be kept out. Moreover, those who enter must have the correct documents.

How do you ensure the safe flow of people and goods without compromising the efficiency of the process? An outdated access card won’t do, as it can be passed along or stolen. But you also don’t want checks that lead to hours-long wait times…

This was the reason for Secure Logistics to bring a modern access solution to the market. Initially, the company’s exclusive focus was on ports. Today, Secure Logistics also secures distribution centers and business parks.

Face Recognition: The Logical Choice

How does the Secure Logistics access solution work? The company validates data about identity and credentials, after which a personal and reliable identity, an XS-ID, is created for each employee. This is placed on an access card that allows the employee easy access to terminals, distribution centers, or business parks.

Initially, verification was done through a hand volume scan; this was later replaced by a fingerprint scanner. By converting these biometric data into encrypted codes and storing them only on the chip in the card, Secure Logistics can protect user privacy and significantly reduce the risk of data leaks. “Our philosophy is to protect personal information while offering robust security solutions,” says Secure Logistics CEO Cor Stolk. Personal data is never stored in a database.

The fingerprint scanner has caused some confusion. Particularly in the ports of Rotterdam and Amsterdam, where thousands of drivers from different nationalities pass through the gates daily. They are not always sure which finger to use; additionally, a contactless solution is more hygienic. Therefore, Secure Logistics decided to expand its solution with facial recognition.

Working with a Software Development Kit

One of the main reasons for choosing 20Face was its  Software Development Kit (SDK), which made it possible to independently work with facial recognition technology and integrate it with the on-card/chip system of Secure Logistics. “This flexibility was crucial to meeting our specific technological and security requirements,” explains Stolk. “A key condition was that we could store biometric data directly on the chip in the card, so we can protect users’ privacy.”

Additionally, 20Face is a Dutch company that not only complies with national and European privacy regulations but also has ethical technology use at its core. Stolk adds, “This compliance provided trust and security for us and our customers.”

Storm, Helmet, Mask? No Problem!

Although the 20Face SDK allows developers to work independently with facial recognition technology, Secure Logistics did not have to do this alone. “We worked closely with 20Face to optimize the solution. During the first implementation phase, there were some issues with the verification cameras and the size of the data files used during the gate verification process. We resolved these issues together to ensure the efficiency and speed of the system.”

Another focus was the various conditions in which the solution would be used: think of port areas dealing with storms or contamination from dust, salt, and sand. Thanks to an extensive testing process, all possible scenarios have been optimized. Truck drivers can stay seated in their cabs, and masks are not an obstacle, nor are safety helmets or goggles. 

90% Faster

After overcoming the final obstacles, the solution was named Face Recognition on Chip (FROC). It has been rolled out at locations throughout the Netherlands – with new customers still joining. 

It works exactly as intended: users verify themselves by simply holding their face in front of the camera. Time savings can be up to 90%! Moreover, FROC reduces the costs associated with administrative tasks and physical security measures. A nice bonus is the elimination of language barriers.

Experts are also enthusiastic about the collaboration between 20Face and Secure Logistics. Stolk proudly shares, “We won an Outstanding Security Performance Award in the category of Outstanding New Security Product!”

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Rapid flow of bulkgoods and containers for ports and logistical hubs.