Abstract: A document information input apparatus detects a position and an attribute of an area of a real document to be input designated by a user with high accuracy. Based on the detected position and attribute, the document information input apparatus recognizes an image of the area as text information by performing recognition processes suitable for the detected attribute such as character recognition, table recognition and a figure process. Then, the document information input apparatus pastes the resulting information to a pertinent position of an electronic document on a display. As a result, it is possible to input information such as a character sequence, a table and a figure from a real document to an electronic document at high speed and with high accuracy.

Abstract: According to this invention, a document processing method of documenting image data obtained by double-sided scanning of an original containing a single-sided printed part and a double-sided printed part includes a blank determination step of determining on the basis of the image data whether the lower surface of an original is blank, and a documentation step of, when the lower surface is determined in the blank determination step to be blank, saving image data corresponding to the upper surface of the original as document information together with a single-sided printing attribute, and when the lower surface is determined in the blank determination step not to be blank, saving image data corresponding to the two surfaces of the original as document information together with a double-sided printing attribute.

Abstract: A method of shortening multiple image-scanning duration including setting the scanning parameters of each images in a pre-scanning operation, categorizing the images into groups, assigning images belonging to the same group to a scanning region and finally initializing the scanning operation.

Abstract: In an image processing device which carries out processing for detecting and correcting defective portions of an image, it is possible to pre-emptively prevent the defective portion detecting and correcting processing from causing a deterioration in image quality or an excessive processing requiring time requirement. In cases in which a film type of a photographic film on which the image is recorded is a film type known to have a characteristic that an IR image is also formed at a time of image exposure and recording, and in cases in which a density distribution width of IR data is a predetermined value or more, defect detection-correction processing is cancelled. Further, in cases in which a non-image region is included in the image, either defect detection-correction is carried out only on regions other than the non-image region, or defective portion detection-correction is cancelled.

Abstract: A structure holds a medium itself to be scanned flat on an installation base in a stand type image input device. The installation base of the image recognition apparatus is provided with a mechanism which clips a medium and straightens creases and curls in the medium. the installation base may be provided with adhesion. Alternatively a mechanism for holding down a medium with filaments finer than the resolution of the image input device maybe provided.

Abstract: In image reading apparatus capable of performing a read-while-feed operation in which an original is read while being fed by an image sensor placed at a fixed position, presence/absence of dust and/or dirt on a platen is detected, and, in a case where dust and/or dirt are detected at all of a plurality of predetermined positions by said detector, the read-while-feed operation is inhibited and the presence of dust and/or dirt is notified to a user. When, removal of dust and/or dirt on the platen is detected in a state that the read-while-feed operation is inhibited, the read-while-feed operation is allowed.

Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed which relate to online purchasing via interface surfaces printed with information and coded data. The coded data, encoded visibly or invisibly, may be queried by an appropriate sensing device. The sensing device communicates with a computer system. Together, the interface surfaces, sensing device and computer system are capable of effecting purchasing transactions over a network.

Abstract: Image capture device control marks are automatically generated within a computer or printer and automatically printed on pages output from the printer. The control marks when detected by a control mark capable image capture device communicate information to the image capture device such as which areas of the printed page are text that require optical character recognition, which areas of the page are photos that require high-resolution full-color, which areas of the page are line drawings that require medium-resolution black and white, and which areas of the page are not to be scanned. Image capture device control marks may be configured in a wide range of sizes, styles, and locations on the printed page.

Abstract: The disclosure describes pattern recognition detectors and software used to detect objects in image streams. The detectors operate on streams of image data, making them suitable for detecting certain types of objects in documents and images passed between processes and devices. For instance, the streaming mode detectors operate in printer drivers on streams of image data being passed to a printer. Also, the streaming mode detectors operate in scanner drivers on streams of image data being passed from a scanner. The disclosure describes pattern detectors for shapes with complex features as well as objects comprised of many smaller shapes. The disclosure also describes novel raster line and edge tracing pattern techniques.

Abstract: A 2D imaging data collection sensor with matching illuminator. The illuminator comprises an array of light emitting reflectors projecting an illumination pattern onto a target area containing an image to be read. The illumination pattern both serves as visual aiming assistance and provides target illumination. The shape of the projected illumination pattern is generated by an array of reflectors, reflecting light that emanates from an array of light sources. The shape of the individual reflectors, and the arrangement of the reflectors and light sources produce the desired uniformity and shape of the illumination pattern. The target image is sensed by an image sensor, and a micro-controller performs all sensor-setting, image capture, feature extraction, and decoding. Results are sent to a PC via a serial communication port.

Abstract: An image capture device electronically captures and selects a desired text portion. A visible light image is projected onto text on a document to enable a user to position the light image relative to the desired text portion. At least some of the text is captured in accordance with a position of the light image. A text selector selects the desired text portion from the captured text.

Abstract: A method of controlling a scanning device using control sheets. The scan job is started and the control image is located. The control image is decoded, either as part of the locating step or part of a processing step. The output is created either after the processing step, where the output is created in accordance with the control instructions decoded from the control image, or prior to the processing of the control instruction.

Abstract: An information processing system which processes machine-readable code information which is printed, together with human-readable information, on a print medium. The apparatus includes a reading unit which reads the machine-readable code information, a decoding unit which decodes the machine-readable code information read by the reading unit, to generate decoded information, an information storing unit which stores at least a portion of the decoded information as stored information, and a processing unit which determines a processing operation to be performed, based on the decoded information and the stored information, and performs the determined processing operation.

Abstract: A relay device for providing communication between a sensing device and a computer system includes first and second communications modules and a processor. The first communications module receives first indicating data transmitted from the sensing device in a first format. The indicating data is sensed by the sensing device when it is placed into an operative position in relation to first coded data forming part of a first interface disposed on a first surface. In particular, the indicating data includes a first region identity indicative of an identity of a region associated with the first interface. The processor is configured to generate second indicating data based on the first indicating data. The second communications module then transmits the second indicating data in a second format to the computer system.

Abstract: A method and system for enabling user interaction with computer software running in a computer system. A user is provided with an interface surface containing information relating to the computer software and including coded data indicative of an identity of the interface surface and of at least one reference point of the interface surface. The user places a sensing device into an operative position relative to the interface surface. In this operative position, the sensing device senses indicating data indicative of: the identity of the interface surface; and a position of the sensing device relative to the interface surface, using at least some of the coded data. The computer system receives the indicating data from the sensing device, and uses the indicating data to identify at least one interactive element relating to the computer software. The computer software is then operated in accordance with instructions associated with the at least one interactive element.

Abstract: In an information processing apparatus 1 to be installed in a vehicle, there are set a plurality of pixels by means of dividing a detection space around a vehicle into sub-divisions. One or more sensors 11 capture detection information DS pertaining to the state of inside of the detection space. A parameter conversion section 12 produces first parameters pertaining to an object located in the pixel on the basis of the detection information DS for each sensor 11, and assigns the first parameters to each pixel. The parameter integration section 15 integrates the first parameters assigned to the pixel on a per-pixel basis, and assigns to the pixel a second parameter which is the result of integration of the first parameters. A processing execution section 25 performs an adaptive task pertaining to vehicle control, through use of integration information MD2 consisting of the second parameters assigned to all pixels or through use of control information DC based on the integration control information MD2.

Abstract: An image processing unit (20) includes a averaging circuit (21) and a memory (22) for storing pixel data. The memory (22) is a memory for storing the pixel data subjected to analog-to-digital conversion. The averaging circuit (21) performs an averaging process between two adjoining pixels on each line stored in the memory (22). The digital pixel data is stored in the memory (22) and the averaging process is performed between the two pixels in the main scanning direction using the pixel data read by a first photoelectric conversion element trains and the pixel data read by a second photoelectric conversion element trains. Therefore, the noise component can be reduced, whereas the S/N ratio can be improved. Accordingly, image quality is made improvable with a simple arrangement.

Abstract: A portable reading machine has a scanner for scanning an image comprising text. The scanner has a scanning area occupying a maximum width and an active width defined by a scanning width limiting mechanism adjustable to a preselected width. A photoreceptive element forms an electronic representation of a portion of the image within the active width. The electronic representation is converted to a digital character string corresponding to the active image text. A speech system outputs the digital character string as ordinary spoken language voiced through a speaker or headset.

Abstract: The invention is a method of and system for identifying a target form for increased efficiency in an automated data capture process. Forms are scanned and stored as digitized images. Regions are defined on the form relative to corresponding reference points between the form and the digitized image. The regions are defined in areas that contain anticipated digitized data from data fields of the form. Digitized data is recognized through such means as optical character recognition (OCR) and the resulting string variable is compared in form to a plurality of formats expected for that data. Scoring systems are used to attain a resultant score for a number of string variables which is compared to a predetermined confidence number. If said confidence number is reached, the form is flagged as a target form and used in the data capture process. A first step identification of certain graphical features can be added as an initial determination as to the source of the form.

Abstract: A device and method are described for capturing an image of a document using a digital camera. The invention includes a resolution analyzer for analyzing the resolution of text characters in the image, to assess whether the resolution is suitable for OCR. In one aspect, if the resolution is too small or too large, an indicator is generated to guide the user as to the corrective movement of the camera to improve the resolution for OCR. In a second aspect, an electronic zoom control is controlled to alter the magnification of the captured image, to correct the resolution. In a third aspect, a method is described for analyzing the image to determine the resolution according to the height of text characters in the image. The method includes analyzing the run lengths of pixels in the image to identify a predominant length corresponding to the average character height (in pixels).

Abstract: The present invention employs an instruction button for inputting an instruction to simultaneously executing registration, in a full-text-search database, of a document scanned by one scanning operation and subjected to OCR processing, and registration of the document in a designated folder contained in a database of a folder tree structure. This single instruction button enables the user to simultaneously register read images in a folder, and text data resulting from OCR processing executed on the read images.

Abstract: In an optical data reader, light is aimed out through a window at objects located in front of the window, and reflections from the objects and/or the window itself are detected. The amount of detected light is compared to one or more expected levels to determine when an object is present in front of the window and/or whether the window is properly installed. The optical reader is controlled based on this determination. Control functions that may be implemented in this manner include, for example, waking up the data reader when an object is detected in front of the glass, and disabling the data reader if the window is removed.

Abstract: A hand-held control device (10) for controlling a terminal (30) connectable by a communications network to an addressed resource. The device (10) comprises address input means for scanning and recognizing a text address (26) of the resource, such as a URL, e-mail address or telephone number, and command output means for uploading address information from the device (10) to the terminal (30) whereupon the terminal (30) is caused to connect to the addressed resource.

Abstract: A general document recognition system is described which is intended to be used in connection with an electronic document transmission function used on a computer network. The general document recognition system is set up to recognize any number of document types created by application programs in the network and is also set up with rules as to how to extract destination data from each document type. The extracted data from each document can be the actual intended destination, such as a facsimile telephone number, or can be the identity of the intended recipient individual. If a recipient, rather than a destination, is extracted from the document, the general document recognition system can query a previously designated external database to recover the destination information for that recipient. An LDAP database is the preferred external database for this function.

Abstract: An improved scanning device, such as a Multi-Function Peripheral (“MFP”), and corresponding host system allow a user to scan images for inclusion in a document having pre-defined fields or areas for accepting such scanned images. An electronic form template or parameters for the template are stored in the memory of the MFP or downloaded to the MFP by a host computer. When scanned images are to be inserted into the template, the MFP can access the template or its parameters from memory and ascertain the size and shape of the pre-defined field into which the scanned image must fit. The MFP can then automatically scan the image at an appropriate resolution, size and shape to fit the form template for which it is intended.

Abstract: A method and system is disclosed for facilitating the input of information into a computing device by a scanning means. A pocket scanner that has only the minimum components/parts therein and will not operate without being connected to the computing device that subsequently receives scanning signals therefrom. In particular, the disclosed scanner does not have a separate power supply to energize the components/parts to work.

Abstract: A method for processing a plurality of input images containing variable content that is filled into respective, fixed templates. The method includes comparing the images to collect a group of the images having a high degree of similarity therebetween, and combining the images in the group so as to distinguish the variable content from a fixed portion common to a preponderant number of the images in the group. The fixed portion is processed to reconstruct the fixed template that is common to at least some of the images among the preponderant number, and information is extracted from the images using the reconstructed template.

Abstract: Automatic filename assignation logic automatically assigns a filename and extension to a scanned image, thus eliminating the need for the user to interactively assign the filename. The automatic filename assignation logic together with the document analysis and processing logic determines the appropriate filename under which to save the scanned document by searching a predefined region within the document for a filename and an extension. A user may preselect the region or the region may be a default region applied to all scanned documents unless the automatic filename assignation logic is otherwise instructed. Alternatively, the presence of a notation, such as a “POST-IT®” note on a page is searched for, and, if discovered, the information contained in the notation (the desired filename and extension) becomes the name under which the automatic filename assignation logic saves the document.

Abstract: An output print produced by an image processing apparatus comprising a substrate having an image thereon and a machine readable marking identifying a data source used to process the image provided.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and computer-readable medium for converting messages includes stations coupled to facsimile devices and to client machines by a network to allow users at the client machines to communicate with users at the facsimile devices. In addition, the stations include processors for extracting information from messages sent by users at the facsimile devices and received by the stations, using the extracted information to convert the messages, and sending the converted messages through the network to the users at the client machines.

Abstract: A system allows a user to create and process data forms using familiar word processing and data base computer programs. The invention allows for form creation without interfacing with custom form software, but instead uses a known word processing program interface. The user, therefore, can be more efficient and has the tools provided with the word processing program. The present system can extract data from completed forms. This is performed through a scanning operation and a template. The extracted data can then be placed in a commercially available database program for processing.

Abstract: A method and system for organizing and tracking the workflow of responses provided by a response provider. The responses are electronically imaged. The electronic images are tracked using individual identifiers based in part on the type of optical imaging device used. The invention further tracks and reports a group or batch of the electronic images.

Abstract: This invention relates to digital transmitter cover sheets. Such systems of this type, generally, employ a cover sheet that authenticates the user of the digital transmitter, provides information regarding the auto-routing transmittal of the document to the desired recipient, and provides information regarding any post-processing of the document.

Abstract: An image capture device, such as a scanner, is built including hardware necessary to capture both reflective and transmissive image data from a transparency. The device may associate the two types of data internally or rely on other hardware, such as a controlling computer, to do the association of the two quantities of data. In one possible embodiment, the device would include the ability to perform optical character recognition (OCR) of the reflective data (or the transmissive data, if desired), converting to a type of text format any printing on the transparency.

Abstract: An imaging apparatus, a control method adaptable to the imaging apparatus, and a computer program product for providing a control program for the imaging apparatus, includes an imaging apparatus having a deflection correlation unit that corrects a deflection of an object image by displacing the object image. The deflection correction unit is actuated based on a detected correlation between a first object image and a second object image, which are picked up by an imaging unit, so that the first and second object images can be joined to form a continuous image.

Abstract: An image reading apparatus comprises: a light source for irradiating light to a photographic photosensitive material; an image forming optical system for forming reflected or transmitted light emitted from a photosensitive film into an image; a film carrier having a shape correspomding to various types of photographic films to be loaded from the outside and supporting the photosensitive film; and an optical waveguide being replaceably attached to a predetermined reference attachment position and having a shape corresponding to the type of photographic film. Furthermore, there are provided a withdrawing mechanism for moving the optical waveguide from the reference attachment position in the case of an incorrect combination of the shape of the film carrier and the shape of the optical waveguide, and a detecting mechanism therefor.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is disclosed for reading and decoding information extracted from a form. In the system of the present invention, packages are randomly placed on a conveyor belt, with their labels facing a two-camera subassembly. As the conveyor belt moves, the two-camera subassembly continuously takes images of the belt underneath the overhead camera. The design of the camera permits it to take a high resolution image of a non-singulated, unjustified package flow. A digital image of the packages within the field of view of the camera is then transferred to the processing system for analysis. The processing system identifies individual packages in the image, extracts them and then analyzes the information written on the package labels. The analysis process utilizes conventional Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Intelligent Character Recognition (ICR) techniques to evaluate the information written on the package label.

Abstract: Digitally stored images are recorded and stored and transferred to a printer. The printer generates a proof-sheet including a graphical representation of at least one of the images and plural image selection and/or image manipulation user designation areas. The proof-sheet contains information about physical spatial locations on the proof-sheet. To manipulate the images, a user applies indicia to at least one user designation area on the proof-sheet using a pen that records the indicia spatial location on the proof-sheet. The indicia spatial locations are transmitted to the printer that translates the indicia spatial location into printing and/or image manipulation commands. The images are then processed and printed based on the user commands.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for locating an area of interest within a digital image of a form captured by an imaging scanner (26). Specific examples include methods and apparatus for optical mark reading with a digital imaging scanner. In many of the methods, an image of a response form is captured by a scanner, and “target” areas (24) for possible responses are located within the image based upon an expected location being adjusted as necessary for certain error-inducing defects in the forms or scanning process. Also disclosed are steps to normalize the darkness values of pixels captured from an optically scanned form (25).

Abstract: A relay device for providing communication between a sensing device and a computer system includes first and second communications modules and a processor. The first communications module receives first indicating data transmitted from the sensing device in a first format. The indicating data is sensed by the sensing device when it is placed into an operative position in relation to first coded data forming part of a first interface disposed on a first surface. In particular, the indicating data includes a first region identity indicative of an identity of a region associated with the first interface. The processor is configured to generate second indicating data based on the first indicating data. The second communications module then transmits the second indicating data in a second format to the computer system.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are disclosed for identifying intended response marks in an optically scanned image of a response sheet having key marks and response targets printed in the same color. Pixel darkness values assigned by a digital imaging scanner are used to locate key marks and response targets and to identify response marks. Areas of the sheet may be selectively filtered to mask the response targets. Alternatively, a color imaging scanner may be used to produce a set of color values, such as RBG values, for each pixel. Software can act as a virtual filter by using the RBG values to detect or to mask a color in the image.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method a system for automatic executing work designation for office automation, which divides works obtained and resolved from meetings to increase office efficiency. At first, individual issues of executed work are divided and analyzed. The individual issues are identified whether for saving or sending an information of the individual issues to executors. The information of an individual issue is sent to a file management system when need to be saved. The information of individual issues are linked with a sending system when need to be sent. When the names of the executors are recognized, e-mail addresses or fax numbers of the executors are linked, the information of the individual issues are then sent to the e-mail addresses or the fax numbers of the executors.

Abstract: A document camera is provided for preventing a camera unit from interfering with works such as a change of one document to another. Camera unit of document camera is disposed above script base at a location away from the center of script base to prevent camera unit from interfering with the head or hand of a user. Simultaneously, light source is placed in proximity to camera unit to prevent regularly reflected light from script base from introducing into an optical system of camera unit, thus producing a fine image. Image signal processor is further provided for eliminating a trapezoidal distortion caused by a change in the position at which camera unit is attached.

Abstract: With the present invention, it is possible to provide an image processing system which uses a line sensor capable of achieving an optimal image fetching speed which is in accordance with the image processing capability (image processing speed) without distorting or defocusing the image. The image processing system of the present invention includes an illuminating unit, a line sensor, an optical system, a movement unit, an image processing unit and a control unit. The illuminating unit illuminates the surface of an object to be examined. The line sensor picks up the image of the surface of the object. The optical system forms the image of the surface of the object on the line sensor. The movement unit moves the illuminating unit, the line sensor and the optical system relative to the object. The image processing unit processes an image signal from the line sensor. The control unit at least controls the clock rate of the line sensor and the movement speed of the movement means.

Abstract: In a facsimile transmission device, the destination telephone number is automatically determined. The user places a mark at each of a plurality of predetermined locations on a cover sheet to indicate the destination telephone number. Each mark is placed in a numeral position of a digit area. The facsimile transmission device scans the cover sheet, electronically senses the presence of the marks, and electronically decodes the locations of the sensed marks into the destination telephone number. Decoding the sensed marks includes correlating the numeral position of the mark in each digit area with a numeral to obtain a correlated numeral for each digit of the destination telephone number.

Abstract: A terminal device includes an input unit operable to input a first graphic code that corresponds to first information from a medium printed with a first series of graphic codes and a communication unit operable to use the first information as terminal identification information to establish communication through a network. The input unit inputs a second graphic code from a medium printed with a second series of graphic codes, the second graphic code corresponding to second information associated with the first information. The communication unit includes an acquiring unit operable to acquire the second information corresponding to the second graphic code.

Abstract: An accumulation unit accumulates, in a 1-line element corresponding to the main scanning direction, an electrical signal prepared by photoelectrically converting optical image information obtained by scanning an original image to be formed with a carriage in the subscanning direction. A magnification setting unit sets the copy magnification. A speed change unit changes the moving speed of the carriage in accordance with the copy magnification, and when the set copy magnification is equal to or smaller than a certain magnification in reduction, changes the carriage moving speed to 1/n (n: a natural number larger than 1) from the relationship between the current magnification and the carriage moving speed.

Abstract: A technique is disclosed for selectively scanning or encoding a desired region of a document. The desired region is identified via scannable indicia on a control form. The region may be outlined by a border preprinted on the form or traced by a user. Preset selectable regions may be identified by codes or other textual descriptions on the form. The form is scanned and the instructions selected by the user are encoded. The selected region is identified and scanned. Only the selected region is scanned, or a larger region is scanned and extraneous data not corresponding to the selected region is eliminated from the resulting data set. The technique permits elimination of unwanted portions of a document automatically, the reduction in scanned file size, and straightforward handling of batch scanning tasks in which selected portions of documents are to be scanned and processed.

Abstract: A transmission job originating station for controlling transmission of job information, based on the processing of a print job in a printing system, is provided. The control system includes a document generating subsystem for providing at least a portion of the print job to be delivered to a print machine and a user interface for programming a set of information including one or more confirmation destinations with each confirmation destination being disposed remotely of the transmission job originating station. The transmission job originating station further includes a control subsystem which, in response to the processing of at least a portion of the print job at the printing machine, reads the set of information and determines each confirmation destination, programmed with the user interface, to which the job information is to be transmitted.

Abstract: A code pattern of an information recording medium contains processing information necessary for editing data according to a restoration processing procedure for restoring multimedia information. The restoration processing procedure has a hierarchical structure of layers 1 to 5. The layer 5 has a file management function. The layer 4 has a function of collecting subset elements to create a subset and converting the same to create a data transfer unit or sector which the layer 5 deals with. The layer 3 or lower layer has a function of reading the code pattern from the information recording medium, subjecting the code pattern to a preset restoration process and outputting the subset elements.