Biometric Scale With Positive ID

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention pertain to a scale for weighing a user wherein the scale includes a built-in positive security/verification system, so as to be able to provide verification of a user's identity.

We claim: 
     
         1 . A scale for weighing a user, the scale comprising:
 a weight sensor configured for physical contact with one or both of the user's feet to generate an indication of the user's weight;   a print sensor located on the scale such that at least a portion of the user's foot contacts the print sensor when the foot is in physical contact with the weight sensor, wherein the print sensor outputs data indicative of a print associated with the portion of the user's foot; and   a processor configured to receive the indication of the user's weight and generate a weight value, and to receive the print associated with the portion of the user's foot, and to associate the print with the user in order to associate the generated weight value with the user.   
     
     
         2 . The scale in accordance with  claim 1 , further comprising a memory, wherein the processor is further configured to store weight readings associated with the user in memory and to retrieve stored readings for display to the user after associating the print with the user. 
     
     
         3 . The scale in accordance with  claim 1 , further comprising a networking module, and wherein the processor is further configured to transmit a user identity and weight readings associated with the user over a network to a remote entity. 
     
     
         4 . The scale in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein the remote entity is a server or other computer associated with an insurer that insures the user. 
     
     
         5 . The scale in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein the remote entity is a server or other computer associated with a governmental entity. 
     
     
         6 . The scale in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein the processor is further configured to gather non-weight health data from the user including a user blood pressure. 
     
     
         7 . The scale in accordance with  claim 6 , wherein the non-weight health data further includes a pedometer reading. 
     
     
         8 . The scale in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein the print comprises a user foot print. 
     
     
         9 . The scale in accordance with  claim 1 , wherein the print comprises a user toe print. 
     
     
         10 . The scale in accordance with  claim 6 , wherein the non-weight health data further includes one or more of a blood glucose reading and a bone mass or bone density reading.