This is still here??? I posted a link months ago showing this EXACT idea already exists. Guess Quirky hasn't found a way to steal and "make it it as their own" yet ...

http://walyou.com/fingerprint-padlock-key-design/

http://www.mintpass.com/select/select_detail.asp?Page=6&SrchItem=&SrchString=&SrchType=1&idx=63

Well, I didn't take the time to read all the comments so I'm not sure anyone has suggested this but it seems like everyone I've read(and myself) seems to think your biggest problem will be power. You want the lock to be able to work for years without having to replace the battery... so why don't you keep the dial and have it charge the battery as you spin it. Clearly, you make a battery that can last for a long time but as a back-up keep the dial of a classic padlock to recharge the battery when it needs it... if you don't like that idea you could also use a key and turn it to charge the battery. Good luck and a cool idea.

I like the idea but as mentioned I think your going to have power problems and cost of manufacturing issues. I think of the finger scanner on my computer or the biometric finger scanner they use at my gym. They tend to be unreliable and you need to have your finger just right for it too read. Secondly to get the electronics and a power source in a lock it may be a pretty big lock or it may influence the integrity of the lock since most of the guts would not be metal. Like the idea but I think there are issues that need to be worked out.

Love the Biometric Lock, Congrats Rick.

The only problem that you may have is if the battery runs out. Perhaps have a backup battery, or a key hole in case the scanner malfunctions/runs out of battery. Other than that great idea!!!

Brilliant! Really good for luggage when traveling (I'm thinking trains in India), and for bikes.

Rick,
Great idea! I wonder though if the cost/power issues would lend themselves more to a home or car lock. If the cost is going to be way over $50 (being twice what a standard key/combo lock costs), I think you will need to sell the time-saving, lost key/combination or the “I have a cooler toy than you” concept in order to hook consumers. I also like the idea of using a fob like the car manufacturers do (because so many cars have this it should be well tested. Good Luck!

Too cool! Great idea. Good Luck.

Cool, especially for those of us who forget combinations and lose keys like me.

make it make it make it........plenty of applications especially for child proofing in home. It's a pain to unlock (and sometimes to lock) the current plastic items yourself. I don't want my grandchildren getting into harmful stuff but don't want to move everything harmful to a higher cabinet just because their visit is for short term. When they are at my place....apply the lock to keep out the kids and allow me to still get at items I want to use while they are in my home by simply using my thumb print.