This Small Business Innovation Phase I research project seeks to investigate the feasibilty of a novel 3D ear-shape recogniton system for enhancing the performance of video-based human identification (ID) systems in protecting highly secured facilities. Human ears are highly complex 3D structures that offer a rich set of features that can be used as effective biometric properties for video-based surveillance and identification of human subjects.<br/> Genex Technologies' proffered "3D Ear ID" technique would significantly advance the current identification and surveillance capability and greatly enhance the protection of U.S. forces/civilians and facilities, at home and abroad.