Abstract: An apparatus and method for scanning a document image in an m.times.n matrix. The device includes a sensing array for sequentially sensing along a scan line, elements along one dimension of the matrix, registers for sequentially storing sensed elements for a selected number of scan lines, and a circuit for effecting a scan line delay between sequential scan lines. Registers are also provided for effecting an element delay in all of the stored scanned lines along the other dimension of the matrix wherein the element delay is responsive to a sequential sensing of a matrix element. Selected matrix elements are combined with selected weighting factors for enhancing the document image being scanned.

Abstract: The disclosed apparatus operates upon binary signals corresponding to a scanned image. The binary images are stored in a matrix as concentric windows of interconnected rows and columns. The binary signals contained in the rows and columns are summed and logically compared against the sums of binary signals in adjacent windows and if the sums and logical combinations do not exceed preselected amounts it is assumed that the binary signals within a particular window are spurious, and means are provided for cleaning these signals from the window. Incrementing the binary images that are stored in the matrix permit the total scanned image to be analyzed.