DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF A PROTOTYPE SECURITY DOOR USING FACIAL RECOGNITION SYSTEM

The use of facial recognition for different security systems is increasingly vital in various sectors, even where electronic security systems are prevalent. This project aims to address the need for cost-effective solutions, particularly pertinent due to high funding requirements for facial recognition systems. The prototype, based on a Raspberry Pi 3 system, utilizes locally sourced materials, showcasing feasibility and adaptability within the region. It employs microcontrollers, sensors, and an SD card for data management, with Python programming facilitating system operation. Additional components like a display screen and buzzer enhance user interaction and notifications. The methodology utilized draws from Dennis and Wixom’s prototype methodology (Dennis and Wixom, 2003), encompassing three phases: analysis, design, and implementation. During testing, the system effectively differentiated between authorized and unauthorized individuals, granting or denying access accordingly. However, improvements to the Raspberry Pi module, along with enhancements in memory capacity and camera quality, are recommended for optimized performance, especially for larger-scale deployments. This project also suggests potential expansions, such as integrating voice-based assistance and linking with police databases for enhanced security measures. Leveraging technologies like WhatsApp for notifications and implementing cloud-based storage to manage visitor records efficiently can further streamline operations and reduce costs. Recognizing the limitations of the current hardware, the project underscores the potential for significant improvement with better processing modules. Overall, the project demonstrates the feasibility of locally developed solutions for implementing robust security systems with facial recognition capabilities, offering practical insights for similar initiatives across Africa.