Abstract: A method for making optical data cards wherein a preformatted recording tape having a continuous pattern of servo tracks is adhered to a web of data card base material. The data cards are then cut such that the ends of the tape coincide with ends of the card. Beginning and end marks to the servo tracks are laser written in situ on the card. A transparent protective layer may be applied over the recording strip. The continuous servo tracks may extend in a lengthwise direction to the strip as well as in a direction transverse to the lengthwise direction or may extend in both directions forming a grid pattern.

Abstract: An information storage medium in which information is stored as multiple machine readable data entries arranged in frames which are themselves arranged in plural, generally parallel channels. The medium further contains machine readable synchronization markers respectively positioned at the leading ends of the channels. These markers include one or more features of characteristic shape or dimension or are characteristically located on the medium with respect to the associated channels. Preferably the medium further contains a second set of similar markers arranged in respectively groups alongside the respective channels. Also disclosed are a method and apparatus for synchronizing a read head utilizing the storage medium.

Abstract: Digital data apparatus is programmable by means of digital data encoded on one or more datastrips contained on an application insert. In order to substantially increase the amount of digital data in each datastrip, fixed-length digital data is compressed according to a predetermined compression/decompression code to produce variable length data which are then encoded on the datastrip. The disclosed apparatus minimizes the time required (1) to read the encoded data into the digital data apparatus and (2) to decode the encoded data so that the decoded data can be ready to be used. As disclosed, a reader reads the encoded data into digital memory during one pass of the reader over the length of the datastrip and while the reader returns to its starting position, the encoded data is decoded according to the predetermined code.

Abstract: A machine readable binary code which is dynamically variable in size, format and density of information is provided. The binary code is formed as a matrix having a perimeter and data contained therein. The perimeter is provided with density indicia for indicating the density of data contained within the matrix. The perimeter is also provided with size indicia for indicating the size of the matrix. By utilizing the density indicia and size indicia, a scanning device is able to calculate the size and information density of the binary code.

Abstract: A desktop survey system for creating and scanning a survey form to be completed by a survey respondent, the survey form being printed on a scannable form having a preprinted timing track that can be scanned by an optical mark scanner is comprised of a processor for entering, editing, and formatting customized questions and corresponding response areas and for adjusting and aligning the locations of the questions and response areas to be printed on the scannable form, a printer for printing the customized questions and the corresponding response areas on the scannable form to create a customized survey form, and an optical mark scanner and attached processing means for defining the fields to be scanned, scanning the survey forms and tabulating and analyzing the results.

Abstract: In an optical card reproducing apparatus in which an optical card such that data is recorded as a plurality of track trains on an optical recording medium is reproduced and the data is optically detected by detecting the reflected light of the irradiated light from a light source by the optical recording medium, there are provided a memory to record the level of the output signal from the photo detector and a comparator for sequentially comparing the level of the output signal stored in this memory with the level of the output signal from the photo detector obtained by the next scan, and as the result of the comparison, when the output level from the photo detector is higher than the output level read out of the memory, the content of the memory is sequentially rewritten into the higher output level.

Abstract: An optical card for storing a data signal as optically readable pits including a plurality of track units, each track unit being composed of a single control track having an array of square control blocks extending in first direction, and a plurality of data tracks disposed on respective sides of the control track. The control and data tracks are aligned in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction. Data signals forming a single byte are recorded over a plurality of data tracks at positions which are aligned in the second direction. The control blocks in the control track are arranged such that focusing error, tracking error and clock pulses can be detected by processing signals obtained by optically scanning the control blocks.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for processing an electrical signal produced by one or more sensors in a device for reading binary storage media, whereby the signal represents a set of successive stored binary values. Digital values which represent a selection of two or more samples of the electrical signal are combined using digital circuits to produce an intermediate digital representation which is then processed to derive one of the binary values. The combining and processing steps are repeated for other selections of the samples to obtain the desired set of successive stored binary values.

Abstract: A combination reader capable of reading a document containing both bar coded and manually marked information. The read information is processed, displayed and stored.

Abstract: A numerical instrument comprising a first location array defining a plurality of digit location for entry of numerals to define a number amount and a second location array in the form of a grid having rows corresponding to numbers and columns corresponding to digit locations, whereby the grid may be filled in to correspond to the number amount indicated in the first location array.

Abstract: Digital data apparatus includes a reader for reading digital data encoded on a datastrip on an application insert. Disclosed is a sensor for sensing whether or not an application insert is positioned for reading by the reader. The digital data apparatus includes a platen upon which an insert is positioned and which is accessible through a door. An end of the platen is located adjacent to the door. Opening the door moves the end of the platen so that an application insert can be positioned on the platen. Closing the door allows the platen to press the insert towards the reader to facilitate reading digital data on a datastrip of the insert. The sensor is a microswitch, mounted on the platen. The microswitch has an actuator which is engageable by an application insert positioned on the platen. The microswitch is only actuated when the door is closed and an application insert is positioned on the platen.

Abstract: A scannable form for an optical mark scanning apparatus in the form of a generally rectangular sheet of paper or like material having a preprinted timing track along one edge and a plurality of preprinted quality assurance marks is printed by a laser printer with customized questions and corresponding response bubbles to create a survey form. An overprint registration system is used in conjunction with the scannable forms to align material for printing on the scannable forms prior to printing the survey form by printing an overprint registration mark corresponding to at least one of the quality assurance marks and adjusting the position of said overprint registration mark to establish the alignment between the response bubbles to be printed and the preprinted timing track.

Abstract: Digital data utilization apparatus includes a datastrip reader for reading digital data encoded on one or more datastrips on an application insert. Disclosed is a system for guiding a user in orienting the application insert relative to the datastrip reader so that the datastrips are read in the correct sequence. The digital data utilization apparatus includes an electronic display which displays messages to prompt the user in correctly orienting the application insert relative to the reader. The apparatus also includes guide marks which align with marks on the insert, to further assist the user. Preferably, the application insert also includes a membrane touch pad which overlays a membrane touch pad on the digital data utilization device.

Abstract: An improvement to graphics pen plotters including a pen gripping mechanism for gripping a cylindrical bodied pen in a generally vertical orientation for sensing the presence and type of a pen in the gripping mechanism with a single sensor. There is a multi-channel sensor adapted for producing and sensing a plurality, "n+1", of parallel light beams disposed one above the other to produce a binary number at an output thereof indicating the ones of the light beams sensed by the sensor. The sensor is disposed to shine the light beams at a position past which the pen is moved by the gripping mechanism. There is also a cylindrical reflective surface disposed about a portion of the body of the pen so as to be struck by the light beams when the pen is being gripped by the gripping mechanism at the position and reflect the light beams back towards the sensor to be sensed thereby.

Abstract: An information memory apparatus includes: an endless belt which is driven forward and in reverse by a motor and reciprocates a recording medium such as an optical card; an optical head for reading out information from the recording medium which is being moved by the endless belt; a memory for temporarily storing the information read out by the optical head; a transfer apparatus for transferring the information read out of the memory to the outside; and a control circuit for changing the positions at which the information stored in the memory is read in accordance with the reading of the information upon the forward and returning operation of the recording medium. The control circuit also changes the reading directions of the information from the memory in accordance with the forward and returning operations of the recording medium. With this apparatus, the information reading efficiency is improved and the information is efficiently transferred by a simple constitution, while reducing the number of memories.

Abstract: A Bar Code Reader of a Video Processor Unit receives video data from a scanner and processes it to locate a bar code at the bottom of a document which represents a postal zip code. The scanner generates an array of cells of video data and provides each cell with a gray weight value corresponding to a detected blackness level of a small portion of the scanned document. The Bar Code Reader moves a template mask over the array and calculates area sums of gray weight values for cells within predetermined areas of the template mask. The area sums are used to compute Bar scores for determining the presence and position of tall and short bars in a bar code field. The positions of the tall and short bars in the bar code field are translated into postal zip code information.

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: An optical data storage and retrieval system using a length of optical recording material in which data in the form of microscopic spots is disposed in cells forming a regularly spaced grid. While the material is being moved in a lengthwise direction by a transport, rows of cells are being read by a linear CCD array, one row at a time. A servo system advances the material so that successive rows can be read, while a second servo adjusts the position of the material in the crosswise direction for proper alignment with the CCD array.

Abstract: A pen type sensor for use in a graphics pen plotter wherein plotter pens are moved along a pre-established path between a pen holding area and a plotting area for reading a plurality of vertically oriented reflective indicia positions thereon to create a binary logic output signal representative of the pen type. There is a hollow body member having a pair of angled front surfaces. Light emitting apparatus is associated with one of the pair of angled front surfaces for directing a light beam to simultaneously strike the indicia positions at a point on the path of pen movement. A plurality of light detectors are associated with the other of the pair of angled front surfaces for receiving on respective sensing surfaces thereof the light beam as it is reflected by reflective indicia on a pen at respective ones of the positions and for creating respective bi-stable output signals reflecting the presence and absense of reflected light on the sensing surfaces.

Abstract: An optical card reader for reading marks made on the face of a preprinted card utilizes a video camera and a memory device to capture and store an image of at least a portion of the card. Positioning indices are printed on the card, and the reader has stored therein information defining possible locations of valid marks relative to the positioning indices. The centroids of the positioning indices on the cards are determined to define the possible locations of valid marks on the cards. The densities and centroids of the marks located in the possible locations are analyzed to determine if a valid mark is present.

Abstract: A data strip (2) of predetermined size is made (a) by determining the total nibbles of digital information to be encoded and the maximum number of integral nibbles per data line (14), using predetermined minimum dibit dimensions, after allowing for parity checks, alignment guides (32,36), and a start line (28), (b) by increasing the dibit dimensions to achieve the predetermined size, and adjusting the bit size to account for ink spread, and (c) by preparing a reader instruction header (16) containing coded specifications as to the data strip format. These factors are interdependent and must be correlated to provide a final data strip (2) satisfying all the predetermined criteria.An associated printer (64) prints the data strip (2) with a header (16) and a data portion (12) in the determined format.

Abstract: A coded document is provided for use in a document reading system having a plurality of markable areas defined thereon and a first and second coded pattern disposed in predetermined relation to the markable areas. Each of the coded patterns has an identical predefined signature when viewed from any direction. A coded document reader includes a video camera that captures the image carried on the coded document. Pixel data is stored in a memory corresponding to the document area scanned by the video camera. The stored data is analyzed to identify detected signatures corresponding to the coded pattern signatures. Based on the location of the identified detected signatures and stored data defining the positions of the markable locations relative to the coded patterns, the position within the stored data of each of the markable locations on the card is determined.

Abstract: A data strip (2) of predetermined size is made (a) by determining the total nibbles of digital information to be encoded and the maximum number of integral nibbles per data line (14), using predetermined minimum dibit dimensions, after allowing for parity checks, alignment guides (32,36), and a start line (28), (b) by increasing the dibit dimensions to achieve the predetermined size, and adjusting the bit size to account for ink spread, and (c) by preparing a reader instruction header (16) containing coded specifications as to the data strip format. These factors are interdependent and must be correlated to provide a final data strip (2) satisfying all the predetermined criteria.An associated printer (64) prints the data strip (2) with a header (16) and a data portion (12) in the determined format.

Abstract: A method and an arrangement is disclosed for the detection by photoelectric means of markings made on a printed, decorated material web. The markings comprise two groups of stroke markings, the markings of a first group being arranged to be sensed by a first photocell element, which, on sensing the first group markings causes the output of a second photocell element, which senses the stroke markings of a second group of making to be fed into a memory unit for continuous comparison with a stored value. In response to the comparison, a control signal is generated to control the performance of various operations on the web.

Abstract: Information stored in a medium as multiple machine readable record entries arranged in frames which are themselves arranged in one or more channels may be read by observing each frame in turn with a substantially known array of detector elements, each having a limited field of observation, producing a set of observed values for each frame. Modified values, indicative of the record entries of the frame, may be generated utilizing both the limitations on the range of the possible values of the record entries and predetermined manipulations of the observed values. As a result, any fractional misregistration between the record entries and the detector elements may be corrected. Position markers may be employed to determine where reading should occur. To distinguish local faults in the position markers, the markers may be observed in turn and values indicating marker position may be stored for a predetermined number of preceding markers.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for skew compensation in an optical reader is described. The method provides for calculating the amount of skew between the read scan line used to read the data and the recording path line used when the data was written on the recording media. By determining the position of each end of the scan line by counting delimiter marks along the two edges of the data being read, the skew can be calculated by determining the difference in delimiter counts. The data is divided into bands along the direction of scan within which the skew will not cause trouble misreadings at the extreme bits of the scan line within a band. The data is scanned multiple times during the transition of the data strip so that at least one good read of each data band in the data strip will occur.

Abstract: The reading of the presence or absence of a pencil or similar mark at various locations on a sheet of paper is accomplished by an optical Mark-Reader comprised of a completely solid state sensing mechanism with no moving parts. The Optical Mark Reader (OMR) contains a matrix of light sensitive transistors with their geometry and logic circuits capable of being tailored for a plurality of answer sheets. The internal logic circuits enable certain sections of the page to be read, generate a delay time while the data is being gathered, tell the host computer when the data is complete, and resets the OMR operator control system for successive page readings. Finally, the internal logic circuits and output bus of the OMR takes the "raw" data from the answer sheets and presents information on an output bus in a format allowing any computer (even a micro-computer) to be the host computer.

Abstract: The card is particularly intended to give a card-holder access to a service such as pay-TV (broadcast or cable), but in principle could be adapted to any lock-and-key type of system, e.g. credit cards, cards giving access to computer terminals or rooms, etc. The data is encoded on the card in the form of data-significant marks and spaces (2, 3). For example, the marks (2) may be distributed along two parallel tracks with marks in one track representing "1" bits and marks in the other track representing "0" bits. Dummy marks (20, 21, 30, 31, 32, 33) are also made on the card. The dummy marks have the same appearance to the human eye and to photographic and photocopying equipment as the data-significant marks. However, they are printed using inks having a different response in an invisible part of the spectrum, so that card reading equipment can be made to treat dummy marks differently from the way it treats data-significant marks. This makes the cards difficult to fake using commonly available equipment.

Abstract: An optical scanner produces an image signal corresponding to a shape of a ticket scanned by the optical scanner. Signal components corresponding to a given range of the ticket is extracted from an image signal of the optical scanner. A level of the signal components is compared with a reference level. Presence or not of a punch hole in the ticket is judged on the basis of the result of the comparison of the comparator.

Abstract: A plurality of carriers for integrated circuit devices are each uniquely coded so as to be recognizable by an automatic decoding apparatus. The devices are tested and the test results accurately correlated with the appropriate devices by recording the test results for each device, reading the identification code for each carrier in the same sequence in which the devices are tested, and then correlating the test results with the device identifications. A prior art requirement of maintaining the carriers in the order in which they were tested is eliminated once the carriers have been thus identified. In a preferred embodiment the carrier body is provided with an array of perforations, the transmission of light through each perforation being blocked by a breakable membrane. Each carrier is coded by breaking a selected combination of its membranes to establish a unique binary identification code for each carrier.

Abstract: A data processing form for providing control information to apparatus, such as facsimile machines, having a scanner. The form has darkened areas which establish a row and column format with an elongate edge mark provided for each row. The edge marks extend to the edge of the form. Areas to be filled in by a user are defined using some of the darkened areas. The form format minimizes the software needed for circuitry used to process the information obtained from the form serving to reduce the time needed to scan the form.

Abstract: In a document scanning scheme where data is preceded on the document by a preprinted document scan mark, circuitry is employed to utilize multiple line scans of the scan mark by a line scan camera to verify the presence of a scan mark and avoid erroneous response to random marks on the document.

Abstract: A data processing unit including means for reducing original data or producing the data in coded form and for recording the same on photographic or magnetic media e.g. photographic film or disc or magnetic tape, scanning means for sensing the data recorded on the record media to produce electrical signals indicative of the reduced or coded data and means including decoding means where the original data is coded and responsive to the signals from the scanning means for reproducing the data on a static visual reading device e.g. an electrophoretic memory unit, in a legible form recognizable by a reader. The decoding means is responsive to address data signals from the scanning means to produce output signals indicative of the coded data in decoded form.

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.

Abstract: Shift registers are employed in a video line delay circuit coupling the output of an analog to digital converter to a digital processor in a line scan camera document reading system to permit a prescribed delay in the transmission of data to avoid loss of data appearing on a document prior to the document scan mark which is used for enabling the digital processor.

Abstract: A coded label comprising a code pattern in which first and second segments respectively being substantially square and having reflection factors different from each other are arranged in at least four rows and two columns, and in which at least two of either of the first and second segments are arranged in each column and at least one is arranged in each of the uppermost and lowermost rows.

Abstract: An integrated circuit for sequentially receiving a plurality of digital character words produced in response to optical scanning of a bar coded label and a plurality of corresponding binary signals representing, respectively, validity, scanning direction, and timing of the digital character words includes first, second, third, and fourth sequentially located edges forming a rectangle. The integrated circuit includes input circuitry for receiving the digital character words and corresponding binary signals and further includes twelve shift registers for storing predetermined ones of the digital character words. Four frame counters and associated control circuitry responsive to the binary signals and the character words steer the incoming character words to predetermined ones of the shift registers. The integrated circuit outputs formatted character words to a digital processor system.

Abstract: The apparatus is particularly suited for identifying mould cavity numbers formed in binary code in the stippling on the base of glass containers. It comprises light beam detection means (2), such as a photodiode array, which scans an area of the article to provide an output characteristic of the code; means (12) are provided for creating at least one window in time within each scan period by selecting which diodes in the array commence and terminate the window. Only output signals from the light beam detection means within the window in time are decoded to provide the code on the article. Preferably, the window is selected manually, e.g. by thumbwheel stores (14), and, further, a true decoding is arranged to arise for "1" in the binary code (presence of a stippling mark) only if a predetermined number of photodiodes within the window are activated at any one time. This true decoding reduces errors due to refraction of light from defects in the glass.

Abstract: An opto-electronic apparatus for reading out preferably coded information contained on a data carrier with high reliability and free of disturbances even when the insertion speed of the information carrier into an associated opening of the reading apparatus depends only on the arbitrary actuation by the operating person, including retrograde motions or stoppage of the information carrier. The apparatus is especially adapted to the read-out of information coded in a card as a pattern of alternating transparent and opaque areas which are subjected to infrared radiation whose passage or non-passage is detected by suitable detectors. The process of reading out the information contained in the data carrier is timed or clocked by a clock cycle generated from a clock trackcontained in the data carrier itself.

Abstract: An apparatus for verifying the tolerance of the positions of holes in in form of a continuous web is moved over an opaque plate on which there are a plurality of transparent areas in the form of slits. The slits in the plate are illuminated by light sources placed above the plate. Photocells are placed below the plate in position with the slits so as to be responsive to the light coming therethrough. The moving web of punched material is positioned with respect to the plate such that when the holes are in tolerance they pass between pairs of slits, thereby blocking the light from reaching the photocells. If a hole position is out of tolerance, it passes over one or more of the slits, thereby permitting the corresponding photocells to provide an output. This indicates the presence of an out-of-tolerance hole.

Abstract: An optical position code detector which senses information that is recorded on a record carrier. The record carrier preferably has scan marks for synchronizing operation of the detector and at least one track with positionally encoded data marks which include one or more imprinted alphanumeric characters. The detector includes photodetectors which sense light that is reflected from the record carrier. The intensity of the reflected light varies in dependence on whether or not data marks are present and also varies due to the presence of spurious marks on the record carrier. When a scan mark appears, a comparison circuit is activated which compares the voltage from each photodetector with a reference voltage which is cycled from a low magnitude to a relatively high magnitude. The comparison circuit distinguishes data marks from spurious marks with a high resolution. A logic circuit is connected to the comparison circuit to indicate whether or not a position code is present on the record carrier.

Abstract: A mark sense reader is disclosed that views each document individually to ascertain how each individual person has marked the document in regard to the density of each mark and then sets a reading threshold for that person. Each mark is scanned, divided into individual cells and a mark quality is determined. Erasures and smudges are differentiated from intended marks.

Abstract: A mark-sense card is preprinted with alphameric characters one or more of which can be selectively activated by a stroke of a pencil or other writing implement. The card is also preprinted with at least one operator that can be selectively activated in a similar manner. The activated alphameric characters are to be interpreted in the normal way if the operator is not activated and in another way if the operator is activated. The addition of the operator thus greatly increases the amount of information that the card is capable of recording.

Abstract: Bar symbols having different bar width for representing information are grouped and recorded on a surface of an object. A light-responsive sensor is swept automatically to repetitively scan the density of the surface-reflected light along the direction in which thegrouped bar symbols are arranged, while the object is moved orthogonally thereto. Electrical signals indicative of the bar width derived from the sensor are processed thereafter for the read-in of the coded data.

Abstract: Apparatus is presented for reading information characters present on a medium by scanning successive columns or lines. To prevent the occurrence of skewing of output signals when present among the responses of individual detectors to information characters, a circuit is utilized to provide a read or strobe pulse after the data registers associated with each detector are reset. The circuit improves the accuracy of the output signals with a minimum of components.

Abstract: An electronic order pricing system including a data card having a plurality of item lines, each representing an orderable item with certain of the lines bearing indicia representing a quantity of items ordered by a customer, apparatus for reading the data card line by line and providing outputs representing the data thereon, circuits for calculating the quantity of each item ordered, a programmable price select matrix storing price data for each orderable item, circuits for using the stored price data and the item quantities calculated to calculate a total price for the items ordered, a sales tax based on the total price and a total order price, and circuits for effecting printout of the calculated price data on the data card.

Abstract: A novel optically readable message card having columns of marking areas thereon where the vertically adjacent marking areas in a column are horizontally staggered. Also, a template for the message card and having columns of horizontally staggered marking openings therein corresponding to the marking areas on the message card. The horizontal staggering arrangement assures that an unskilled user will make a sufficiently long mark in the marking area on the message card so that the mark can be read by commercially available optical mark reading equipment. Furthermore, the staggered openings in the template assure the structural strength of the template. Also, a structurally strong, easy-to-use template assembly including the template and a base plate designed to hold the message card and accurately align it with the template. Also, a method of economically mass-producing the template assemblies.

Abstract: A photo-electric tape reader particularly adapted to ordnance use wherein power is provided by a setback generator, and which reader is free of the malfunctions caused by contact bounce and corroded surfaces of resilient metal contacts. The reader utilizes a light emitting diode in the charging circuit of the setback generator which serves as a light source to a reader matrix of photo diodes.

Abstract: A non-duplicative switching arrangement for controlling a video or radio frequency switch is used in a cable television system for controlling the application of a distant station signal to the cable system to eliminate duplication in programming. A clock provides an output indicative of the day and time while a timing means, responsive to the output of the clock provides timing signals. Switching is programmed on a transparent matrix disc which has a plurality of concentric circular rows of matrix positions. Each row corresponds to a day of the week and the matrix positions are aligned radially with respect to the disc in columns which correspond to daily time segments. The light transmitting characteristics of selected ones of the matrix positions are altered impermanently in order to program the switching arrangement. A stepping motor is provided for rotating the disc at predetermined times and an optical reader determines the light transmitting characteristics at each successive matrix position.