Abstract: A scannable form for use in an optical mark reading system has a timing track that is pre-encoded with data information known or determined prior to a respondent completing the scannable form. The data information is pre-encoded in the control mark column on the scannable form by utilizing that portion of the control mark column that is not essential for conveying the scan control information associated with the scan control marks. The data information is encoded using data marks that represent the data information in a binary or other similar coding technique. The data marks are column-aligned with the scan control marks in the control mark column.

Abstract: A method for extracting information from a document bearing (a) first indicia detectable in a first scan mode, using light in a first spectral range, but not detectable in a second scan mode, using light outside the first spectral range, and (b) second indicia detectable in either the first scan mode or second scan mode, where the second indicia represent information encoded in one or more forms decodable by automated symbol recognition resources, comprise several steps. One or more areas of interest on the document are defined in which the second indicia may appear, with the definition including information specifying the form of encoding for the second indicia. The document is scanned in the second mode, using a scanner that produces a pixel image of the indicia detected and the resulting pixel data are stored in a memory device.

Abstract: A method storing multiple scanned images of a response-marked form document comprises scanning a copy of the form document on which no response information has been marked, using a scanning method that detects substantially all visual information present on the form document and produces a pixel image thereof and storing that pixel image data in a computer storage device. Additonal steps comprise scanning at least one copy of the same form document that has been marked with at least one response mark that absorbs light falling outside the visible spectrum, using a scanning method that detects only the presence of light outside the visible spectrum and that produces a pixel image of said at least one response mark, then compressing that pixel image to reduce the amount of pixel data used to repressent areas of the form document bearing no response marks and storing the compressed pixel image data in a computer storage device.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for discriminating bar codes for an optical mark reader is provided comprising a scanning means for scanning a target area on a scannable form and producing a signal in response to certain indications, i.e.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the field of optical mark readers and mark scanning systems. More particularly, the present invention relates to a method and system for checking the velocity of a scannable document as it travels under the read head of a mark scanning system.

Abstract: A line scanning camera generates signal information indicative of marks on a scanned document and a selectable memory containing several document formats cause the signal information from the scanned document corresponding to the selected format to be transmitted for evaluation.