Page 82 - Automated Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS)

FINGERPRINTS ARE UNIQUE 67

Table 3.1
Pattern Type Pattern Subgroup FPC Class Fingerprint Classification
(FPC) Field Codes for
Fingerprint Class
Arch Plain arch AA
Tented arch TT
Loop Radial loop Two numeric characters
determined by actual
ridge count plus 50
Ulnar loop Two numeric characters
less than 50
Whorl Plain whorl
Inner PI
Meeting PM
Outer PO
Central pocket loop whorl
Inner CI
Meeting CM
Outer CO
Double loop whorl
Inner DI
Meeting DM
Outer DO
Accidental whorl
Inner XI
Meeting XM
Outer XO
Complete scar SR
Mutilated pattern
Missing/amputated finger XX

Table 3.2
Pattern Type FPC Class Fingerprint Classification
(FPC) Field Codes for
Pattern Class
Arch AU
Loop, left slant LS
Loop, right slant RS
Whorl WU
Complete scar/mutilated pattern SR
Missing/amputated finger XX
Unable to classify UC
Unable to print (e.g., bandaged) UP

print and pattern classification using the FPC rules. Rather, they are intended
to demonstrate (1) how complex fingerprint classification can be, with
descriptors such as an inner central pocket loop whorl (CI), and (2) that even
when the image cannot be directly transmitted, there exists an alternative
method of obtaining information from another agency based on finger image
information. This method might be used by a police department that does not