Statistical Properties of Fingerprint Patterns

The book "Statistical Properties of Fingerprint Patterns" by Robert Hastings offers an in-depth analysis of the statistical properties of fingerprints and their application in identification. It highlights the challenges and uncertainties associated with the assumption of fingerprint uniqueness, particularly in the context of errors in identification by law enforcement agencies. The author discusses the definition of "match" and the methods for representing fingerprint ridge patterns, which are crucial for the analysis and comparison of fingerprints. By examining the spatial distribution of the features used for identification, the book provides valuable insights into determining the uniqueness of an observed pattern. Additionally, an innovative approach to specifying the pattern in the form of the phase of a periodic wave is presented, opening new perspectives for fingerprint analysis.