JP3770656B2 - Format creation device and format control program creation method - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  The present invention relates to a format creation apparatus and a format control program creation method for creating a format control program for causing a form to be read by an optical character reader.
[0002]
[Prior art]
  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in an apparatus (optical character reading apparatus) that reads a form in which characters are entered, reading control corresponding to the type of each format control program is generally performed to cut out and recognize a character pattern. (For example, the document “Edited by Shinichiro Hashimoto, Introduction to Character Recognition p203-206, March 20, 1982, Ohmsha”). Here, the format control program is a program that describes field information (see p204 in the literature) such as entry boxes, character arrangements, positions, and shapes described in the form. Then, the optical character reader discriminates the form type number (also referred to as form ID) on the form, calls a pre-registered format control program corresponding to this number, and cuts out the character pattern according to this program. And character recognition.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
  Conventionally, however, the creation of a format control program is obtained by measuring field information such as the size of the entry frame on the form and the character type and the number of characters written in the entry frame one by one. This is done by inputting the format control program generation means. Here, the format control program generating means is means for converting field information such as given coordinate values and character types into a format control program.
[0004]
  For example, an example of the structure of a form is shown in the plan view of FIG. As shown in this figure, a ruled line 60, a form ID 68, and the like are described on the paper surface 66 of the form 54. An entry frame 56 provided on the form 54 is a frame composed of ruled lines 60 (vertical ruled lines 60 a and horizontal ruled lines 60 b), and characters 64 are entered in the entry frame area 62. Conventionally, in order to create a format control program, it has been necessary to actually measure the size and position of the entry frame 56 and set the type and number of characters to be entered in the entry frame 56.
[0005]
  For this reason, it took considerable time to create and register the format control program. Further, the change of the format control program accompanying the change of the form format is troublesome and troublesome for the operator for the reason described above. Thus, conventionally, it has been an excessive burden on the operator to create the format control program.
[0006]
  Accordingly, there has been a demand for the appearance of a format creation device that simplifies the creation of an operator's format control program and facilitates the creation of a format accompanying the addition or change of a form format.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  According to the format creation device of the first invention relating to this application, a format creation device for creating a format control program for causing a form to be read by an optical character reader, An entry frame setting means for setting coordinate values, a field information setting means for setting field information other than the coordinate values, and a format control program generation for generating the format control program from the set coordinate values and field information In the format creation device comprising the means, the entry frame setting means includes an image capturing means for acquiring an image of the sample form, andBy image capture meansDisplay acquired imageYouImage display means, and entry frame detection means for detecting the coordinate value of the entry frame;Have. And the entry frame detecting means isThe image display means by the operatorOne point in the inner area of the entry frame in the displayed imageWhen is specified, the entry box where the one point exists is detected.An entry frame designation means to be designated;As a detection target by the entry frame specifying meansDesignatedOf the inner area of the boxA vertical ruled line that configures the entry frame with black pixels having a length longer than the threshold in the vertical direction and the threshold in the horizontal direction by detecting the black pixels by scanning the image in the vertical and horizontal directions from one point as a base pointandExtracted as horizontal ruled lines, and the coordinate values of the intersections of the extracted vertical and horizontal ruled linesBy operatorCoordinate value detection means for detecting the coordinate value of the designated entry frame is provided.
[0008]
  in this way,According to the format creation device of the present invention,Import the sample form image,By operatorBox for this imageWhen one of the points is specified, the entry box where that one point exists is detected.By specifying as follows,As a detection targetThe coordinate value of the designated entry frame can be detected. That is,According to this format creation device,First, entry frame designation meansIs used to specify the entry frame with one point specified by the operator as the detection target.Next, coordinate value detection meansUsing the entry frame designation meansVertical and horizontal ruled lines that make up the specified entry frameTheExtractionShi, The coordinate value of the intersection of these vertical and horizontal ruled linesAs specified by the operatorExtracted as coordinate values of the four vertices of the entry frameYouThe in this way,According to this format creation device, the operatorBy designating one point in the internal area of the entry frame, the coordinate values (coordinate values of the entry frame) of the four vertices of the entry frame can be detected. Therefore,According to this format creation device, the detection targetIt is possible to automatically obtain the dimensions and position of the entry frame. By setting other field information together with the coordinate value of the entry frame, a format control program can be created based on these field information.
[0009]
  Further, according to a preferred configuration example of the format creation device of the present invention, n number of entry frames having the same shape (where n is an integer satisfying n ≧ 2) are continuous in the extending direction of the vertical ruled lines or horizontal ruled lines. As the entry frame designation means,The image display means by the operatorOne point in the inner area of the first entry frame in the displayed image1 point when is specifiedAs the starting point,By operatorOne point in the inner area of the nth entry box1 point when is specifiedAs the end point,Furthermore, by the operatorNumber of entry boxes nWhen is specifiedBy dividing the line connecting the start point and the end point by (n−1), one point in the inner area of the entry frame of the i-th (where i is an integer satisfying n−1 ≧ i ≧ 2) is obtained.Calculate the entry frame where the calculated one point exists as a detection targetA first continuous entry frame designating means for designating is provided.
[0010]
  in this way,According to this configuration exampleFormeachWhen the entry boxes have the same shape and are continuously arranged in one directionIn, Each entry frame of the form by the first continuous entry frame designation meansAs a detection targetCan be easily specified. AndAccording to this configuration example, the first continuous entry frame designating means designates the detection target.The coordinate value of each designated entry frame can be detected by the coordinate value detecting means described above. in this way,According to this configuration example, the operatorFirst entry boxOne point andnth boxOne point andThe number of boxes andButSpecifiedIsAll the boxesAs a detection targetIt is possible to automatically specify and automatically obtain the size and position of each entry frame. AndAccording to this configuration example,By setting other field information together with the coordinate values of these entry frames, a format control program can be created based on these field information.
[0011]
  Further, according to a preferred configuration example of the format creation device of the present invention, n number of entry frames having the same shape (where n is an integer satisfying n ≧ 2) are continuous in the extending direction of the vertical ruled lines or horizontal ruled lines. As the entry frame designation means,The image display means by the operatorOne point in the inner area of the first entry frame in the displayed image1 point when is specifiedAs the starting point,Furthermore, by the operatorOne point in the inner area of the nth entry box1 point when is specifiedIs designated as the end point, the length along the extending direction of the first entry frame including the start point is detected as the entry frame width, and a line segment connecting the start point and the end point is determined as the entry frame width. By dividing each point, one point in the inner area of the entry frame of the jth (where j is an integer satisfying n-1 ≧ j ≧ 2) is obtained.Calculate the entry frame where the calculated one point exists as a detection targetA second continuous entry frame designating means for designating is provided.
[0012]
  in this way,According to this configuration exampleFormeachWhen the entry boxes have the same shape and are continuously arranged in one directionIn, Each entry frame of the form by the second continuous entry frame designation meansAs a detection targetCan be easily specified. AndAccording to this configuration example, the second continuous entry frame designating means is used as a detection target.The coordinate value of each designated entry frame can be detected by the coordinate value detecting means described above. in this way,According to this configuration example, the operatorFirst entry boxOne point andnth boxOne of the pointsSpecifiedIsAll the boxesAs a detection targetIt is possible to automatically specify and automatically obtain the size and position of each entry frame. AndAccording to this configuration exampleBy setting other field information together with the coordinate values of these entry frames, a format control program can be created based on these field information. Furthermore, according to this configuration example, it is not necessary to designate the number of entry frames, so that means for designating this is unnecessary.
[0013]
  Preferably, in the format creation device of the present invention, the entry frame image created from the coordinate value detected by the entry frame detection means isAcquired by image capture meansWith the rendered imageIn the image display meansAn entry frame display means for displaying is provided.
[0014]
  in this way,The format creation device of this configuration example isBy providing entry frame display means,Detected by entry box detection meansFrom the coordinate valueCreatedFilled inFrameStatue andOf sample formsWith the original imageDisplay on the image display means. As a result, the operator creates an entry frame image and the original image of the sample form.Can be compared,Fill in boxIt is possible to confirm the detection result.
[0015]
  According to the format control program creation method of the second invention related to this application,In an optical character reader having an image capture means, an image display means and an entry frame detection means,Reading formsThe lineThis is a method for creating a format control program for setting the sample frame entry frame coordinate values.The image capturing means isAn image capturing step for acquiring an image of the sample form;The image display meansSaidIn the image capture stepGetIsDisplayYouImage display step,The entry frame detecting means includes an entry frame detecting step for detecting a coordinate value of the entry frame. In the entry frame detection step, the entry frame detection means is an image display step performed by an operator.displayIsPoint in the inner area of the entry frameWhen is specified, the entry box where the one point exists is detected.Entry frame specification step to be specifiedAnd the entry frame detecting means is a detection target in the entry frame specifying step.SpecifiedIsAnd a coordinate value detecting step for detecting the coordinate value of the entry box. The coordinate value detecting step includesThe entry frame detection means is a detection target in the entry frame designation step.SpecifiedIsVertical direction of the image starting from one point in the inner area of the entry frameandScan horizontallyscanningSteps,The entry frame detecting means isThis scanStepDetected byIsThe continuous length of the black pixels is compared with the vertical threshold and the horizontal threshold, and the black pixels having a continuous length larger than the vertical threshold and the horizontal threshold areandExtract as horizontal ruled linesExtractionSteps,In this extraction step, the entry frame detection meansExtractionIsThe coordinate value of the intersection of the vertical ruled line and horizontal ruled lineBy operatorSpecifiedIsDetected as coordinate valuedetectionAnd a step.
[0016]
  in this way,According to the method for creating a format control program of the present invention,Sample formofimageTheCapture,By operatorIn this imageWhen one point in the entry box is specified, that one point existsFill in the boxAs a detection targetBy designating, the coordinate value of the entry frame can be obtained as follows. That is,According to this method, the entry frame detecting means isBy scanning the image of the entry frame designated in the entry frame designation step, the vertical ruled lines and the horizontal ruled lines are extracted, and then the intersection of the vertical ruled lines and the horizontal ruled lines is obtained to obtain the coordinate value of the entry frame. be able to. Therefore,According to this method,The setting of the coordinate value of the entry frame does not have to be performed manually as in the prior art, and can be performed automatically.
[0017]
  Preferably, in the method of creating the format control program, n number of entry frames having the same shape (where n is an integer satisfying n ≧ 2) are continuously arranged in the extending direction of the vertical ruled lines or horizontal ruled lines. In the case where the entry frame designation step is performed,In the image display step, the entry frame detecting means is operated by an operator.displayIsOne point in the inner area of the first entry box in the selected image1 point when is specifiedSpecify as the starting pointSpecify start pointSteps,In the image display step, the entry frame detecting means is operated by an operator.displayIsPoint in the inner area of the nth entry frame in the selected image1 point when is specifiedSpecify as the end pointSpecify end pointSteps,In the image display step, the entry frame detecting means is operated by an operator.displayIsThe number n of the entry frames in the imageSpecified at the start point specification step.The starting point andSpecified in the end point specifying stepA line segment connecting to the end point is divided by (n−1) and an i-th (where i is an integer satisfying n−1 ≧ i ≧ 2) one point in the inner area of the entry frame.Calculate the entry frame where the calculated one point exists as a detection targetspecifySpecifiedAnd a step.
[0018]
  in this way,According to this method,FormeachWhen the entry boxes have the same shape and are continuously arranged in one directionBy the operatorFirst entry boxOne point andnth boxOne point andThe number of entry boxes nButSpecifiedIsAll the boxesAs a detection targetIt is possible to automatically specify and automatically obtain the size and position of each entry frame. AndAccording to this method,By setting other field information together with the coordinate values of these entry frames, a format control program can be created based on these field information.
[0019]
  Preferably, in the method of creating the format control program, n number of entry frames having the same shape (where n is an integer satisfying n ≧ 2) are continuously arranged in the extending direction of the vertical ruled lines or horizontal ruled lines. In the case where the entry frame designation step is performed,In the image display step, the entry frame detecting means is operated by an operator.displayIsOne point in the inner area of the first entry box in the selected image1 point when is specifiedSpecify as the starting pointSpecify start pointSteps,In the image display step, the entry frame detecting means is operated by an operator.displayIsPoint in the inner area of the nth entry frame in the selected image1 point when is specifiedSpecify as the end pointSpecify end pointSteps,The entry frame detecting means is designated in the start point designating step.The length along the extending direction of the first entry frame including the start point is detected as the entry frame width.Entry frame width detectionSteps,The entry frame detecting means is designated in the start point designating step.The starting point andSpecified in the end point specifying stepThe line connecting the end pointDetected in the entry frame width detection stepOne point in the inner region of the entry frame divided into each entry frame width is jth (where j is an integer satisfying n−1 ≧ j ≧ 2).Calculate the entry frame where the calculated one point exists as a detection targetspecifySpecifiedAnd a step.
[0020]
  in this way,According to this method,FormeachWhen the entry boxes have the same shape and are continuously arranged in one directionBy the operatorFirst entry boxOne point andnth boxOne of the pointsSpecifiedIsAll the boxesAs a detection targetIt is possible to automatically specify and automatically obtain the size and position of each entry frame. AndAccording to this method,By setting other field information together with the coordinate values of these entry frames, a format control program can be created based on these field information. Further, according to this method, since it is not necessary to designate the number of entry frames, a means for designating this is unnecessary.
[0021]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the drawings schematically show the configuration, arrangement relationship and operation of the present invention so that they can be understood, and the numerical conditions described below are merely examples. There is no limitation to the form.
[0022]
  [First Embodiment]
(Configuration of format creation device)
  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the first embodiment. The format creation device of this embodiment is a format creation device for creating a format control program for causing a form to be read by an optical character reader, and sets the coordinate value of the entry frame of the sample form 70. An entry frame setting means 16 for setting, field information setting means 18 for setting field information other than coordinate values, and a format control program generating means 20 for generating a format control program from the set coordinate values and field information. Become.
[0023]
  In addition, the format creation apparatus includes a control unit 26 that controls the entire apparatus. The control unit 26 reads an image (also referred to as image data) of a sample form 70 for which a format control program is to be created. A scanner 28, an image memory 30 for storing the image, an entry frame detection unit 42 for detecting an entry frame as a reading target area, a display 32 for displaying the read image and the detected entry frame, and a setting / operation instruction. A keyboard 36 and mouse (pointing device) 38 as the input unit 34, a format memory 40 for storing information on the entry frame, a format control program creating unit 44 for creating a format control program from the contents of the format memory 40, and the created Format control program External storage device 46 to pay is connected.
[0024]
  The field information setting means 18 described above includes a control unit 26, an input unit 34, and a format memory 40. That is, field information other than the coordinate value of the entry frame set by the entry frame setting means 16 is input by the input unit 34, and the field information input by the instruction of the control unit 26 is stored in the format memory 40.
[0025]
  The above-described format control program generation means 20 includes a control unit 26, a format memory 40, a format control program creation unit 44, and an external storage device 46. That is, the control unit 26 transmits the field information stored in the format memory 40 to the format control program creation unit 44, where the format control program is created from the field information, and again created by the instruction of the control unit 26. The format control program is stored in the external storage device 46.
[0026]
  As shown in FIG. 1, the entry frame setting means 16 of the format creation device includes an image capture means 10, an image display means 12, and an entry frame detection means 14.
[0027]
  First, the image capturing unit 10 is a unit for acquiring an image of the sample form 70. Here, the sample form 70 is a form that is read in order to obtain an image of an entry frame. In the structure of the form 54 described with reference to FIG. 14, the characters 64 to be entered are described in the entry frame area 62. It is a form that is not done. Further, the form ID 68 is not given to the sample form 70.
[0028]
  The image capturing means 10 of this embodiment includes a control unit 26, an image scanner 28, and an image memory 30. The control unit 26 instructs the image scanner 28 as an optical scanning device to read the sample form 70, and in accordance with the instruction, the image scanner 28 detects the image of the sample form 70 as an optical signal, and the optical signal 2 The image is read by converting it into a digitized electric signal. An entry frame on a form is read as a black pixel. Next, the control unit 26 instructs the image scanner 28 to store the read image in the image memory 30.
[0029]
  Next, the image display unit 12 displays the image acquired by the image capture unit 10.YouMeans. The image display means 12 of this embodiment includes a control unit 26, an image memory 30, and a display 32. That is, the image display means 12 iscontrolThus, the image (image data) stored in the image memory 30 is displayed on the display 32.YouMeans.
[0030]
  Next, the entry frame detecting means 14By operatorImage display means 12In the tableOne point in the inner area of the entry frame in the displayed imageIs specified, theIt is a means for detecting the coordinate value of the entry frame. The entry frame detection means 14 of this embodiment comprises an entry frame designation means 22 and a coordinate value detection means 24.
[0031]
  The entry frame designation means 22 of this embodimentBy operatorImage display means 12In the tableOne point in the inner area (entrance frame area 62) of the entry frame 56 in the displayed imageWhen is specified, the entry box where the one point exists is detected.It is a means to specify. The entry frame designating unit 22 includes a control unit 26, an image memory 30, an input unit 34, and a format memory 40. The operator visually checks the image of the sample form 70 displayed by the image display means 12 (stored in the image memory 30), and designates one point in the internal area of the entry frame 56 using the input unit 34. . For this specification,Of the entry frame designation means 22The control unit 26 stores one point in the inner area of the designated entry frame 56 in the format memory 40 as a coordinate value.
[0032]
  Further, the coordinate value detecting means 24 of this embodiment is provided by the above-mentioned entry frame specifying means 22.As a detection targetA black pixel is detected by scanning in the vertical direction (for example, the Y direction in FIG. 14) and the horizontal direction (for example, the X direction in FIG. 14) of the image from one point in the specified inner area of the entry frame 56 as a base point, A vertical ruled line that forms a black pixel having a continuous length larger than the vertical threshold and the horizontal threshold that forms the entry frame 56andExtracted as horizontal ruled lines, and the coordinate values of the intersections of the extracted vertical and horizontal ruled linesBy operatorThis is means for detecting the coordinate value of the designated entry frame 56.
[0033]
  The coordinate value detecting means 24 includes a control unit 26, an image memory 30, a format memory 40, and an entry frame detecting unit 42. In other words, the control unit 26 uses the entry frame specifying means 22.As a detection targetThe coordinate value of the designated entry frame is called from the format memory 40, and the vertical ruled line and the horizontal ruled line of the entry frame 56 are extracted by scanning the image stored in the image memory 30. Here, the extraction of the vertical ruled line and the horizontal ruled line means obtaining the coordinate values of the points at both ends of the vertical ruled line and the horizontal ruled line. Thus, the acquired coordinate value is sent to the entry frame detection unit 42, where the coordinate value of the intersection of the vertical ruled line and the horizontal ruled line is obtained. The obtained coordinate value of the intersection is stored in the format memory 40 as the coordinate value of the entry frame.
[0034]
  In this way, the entry frame detection means 14 having the configuration of this embodiment is first configured by the entry frame designation means 22.As a detection targetBox 56 isNext, the coordinate value detecting means 24As a detection targetThe vertical ruled lines and horizontal ruled lines constituting the designated entry frame 56 are extracted, and the coordinate values of the intersections of these vertical ruled lines and horizontal ruled lines are extracted as the coordinate values of the four vertices of the entry frame 56. in this way,According to the configuration of this embodiment, the operatorEntry frame56 internal areas1 pointIs specifiedAs a result, the coordinate values of the four vertices of the entry frame 56 are detected as the coordinate values of the entry frame 56.
[0035]
  According to the configuration of the first embodiment described above, the coordinate value of the entry frame (that is, information on the size and position of the entry frame) can be automatically obtained. By setting other field information together with coordinate values, a format control program can be easily created.
[0036]
  Furthermore, the configuration of this embodiment is that the entry frame detecting means 14(Specifically, coordinate value detection means 24)The image stored in the image memory 30 is a frame image created from the coordinate values detected by(That is, the original image of the sample form 70)WithThe image display means 12An entry frame display means 48 to be displayed is provided. The entry frame display means 48 includes a control unit 26, an image memory 30, a display 32, and a format memory 40. That is, the control unit 26 creates an entry frame image from the field information stored in the format memory 40, and uses it.Original form 70The image is displayed on the display 32 together with the image.
[0037]
  Format creation deviceBy providing this entry frame display means 48,Coordinate value detection means 24Detected byIsFrom the coordinate valueCreatedEntry frameThe image and the original image of the sample form 70 can be displayed on the image display means 12. As a result, the operator obtains the entry frame image and the original image of the sample form 70.Because you can compareEntry frame detection means 14It is possible to confirm whether or not the result obtained in (1) is correct.
[0038]
(Operation of format creation device)
  Next, the operation of the format creation apparatus of this embodiment, particularly the creation method of the format control program for causing the optical character reader to read the form will be described. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a first format creation flow. In FIG. 2, the step is represented by the symbol S.
[0039]
  In setting the coordinate value of the entry frame of the sample form 70, first, in the image capturing step,Format creation deviceAn image of the sample form 70 is acquired using the image capturing means 10 (S1 in FIG. 2). As described above, the image capturing means 10 optically scans the sample form 70 with the image scanner 28 and converts the detected optical signal into a binarized electrical signal, thereby converting the electrical signal into image data. Is generated. AndFormat creation deviceThis image data is stored in the image memory 30 in the apparatus.
[0040]
  Next, in the image display step,Format creation deviceUsing the image display means 12, the image acquired by the image capture means 10 is displayed.You(S2 in FIG. 2). As described above, the image display means 12 calls the image stored in the image memory 30 by the image capture means 10 and displays it on the display 32.YouThe
[0041]
  Next, in the entry frame designation step,Format creation deviceUsing the entry frame designation means 22,By operatorImage display means 12IndisplayIsPoint in the inner area of the entry frame in the selected imageWhen the is specified, the entry frame where the one point exists is specified as the detection target(S3 in FIG. 2). As described above, the entry frame designating unit 22 designates this entry frame as a detection target when the operator inputs one point in the internal area of the entry frame using the keyboard 36 or the mouse 38.
[0042]
  Next, in the coordinate value detection step,Format creation deviceUsing the coordinate value detection means 24, the entry frame designation means 22Specified as a detection target byThe coordinate value of the entry frame is detected (S4 in FIG. 2). The coordinates of this detected entry frame areAs entry frame informationStored in the format memory 40.
[0043]
  The coordinate value of the entry frame is changed by the steps from the image capturing step (S1 in FIG. 2) to the coordinate value detecting step (S4 in FIG. 2) described above.detectionIs done.
[0044]
  next,The format creation device is detected by the coordinate value detection means 24 using the entry frame setting means 16.Create an entry frame from the coordinate valuesFurthermore, using the entry frame display means 48,The image of this entry frame is stored in the sample form 70 stored in the image memory 30.OriginalAlong with the image,In the image display means 12It is displayed (S5 in FIG. 2). In this step, firstFormat creation deviceAn entry frame is created from the coordinate value data of the entry frame stored in the format memory 40, and an image of the entry frame is displayed on the display 32. At this time, the image stored in the image memory 30 is also displayed on the display 32.To do. The operator looks at the image displayed on the display 32 so that the format creation deviceCheck if incorrect entry boxes are detected (recognized).
[0045]
  And in the next step,The format creation apparatus sets field information using the field information setting means 18 (S6 in FIG. 2). In this step, the operator firstBy observing the image in the image memory 30 on the display 32, the coordinate value detecting means 24 is displayed.ByGainIsUse the keyboard 36 or mouse 38 for field information other than the coordinate valuesinput. In response, the format creation deviceBy field information setting means 18Entered by the operatorField informationThe, Detected by the coordinate value detection means 24Fill in boxSimilar to the coordinate value data, it is stored in the format memory 40 as entry frame information.
[0046]
  Format creation deviceThe above-described entry frame designation step (S3 in FIG. 2) to field information setting step (S6 in FIG. 2) are repeated for all the entry frames to be detected (S7 in FIG. 2).
[0047]
  Finally,Format creation deviceUsing the format control program generation means 20, all entry frame information stored in the format memory 40 is called into the format control program creation unit 44, where the format control program is created and output to the external storage device 46 ( S8 in FIG.
[0048]
<Detection of entry frame>
  Next, the coordinate value detection step (S4 in FIG. 2) described above will be described in detail. 3 and 4 are flowcharts showing a coordinate value detection flow in which the coordinate value detection step is further detailed. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an example of detection of an entry frame, and shows a state when an image of a sample form 70 stored in the image memory 30 is displayed on the display 32. As shown in FIG. 5, the entry frame designating unit 22 makes one point (X₀, Y₀) Is specified.
[0049]
  First,The coordinate value detection means 24 of the format creation deviceFilling frame designation step (S3 in FIG. 2)As a detection target inSpecifiedIsOne point (X₀, Y₀) As the base point of the image (the Y direction in FIG. 5)andThe horizontal direction (X direction in FIG. 5) is scanned.
[0050]
  Now, the base point (X₀, Y₀) To Y1 direction (S9 and S10 in FIG. 3) and the horizontal ruled line a is extracted.
[0051]
  First,The coordinate value detecting means 24 isThe continuous length L of the black pixels detected by this scanning is set to a predetermined vertical direction threshold value TY.₁(S11 in FIG. 3).The coordinate value detecting means 24 isAs a result of this comparison, L ≧ TY₁Then, the X direction is scanned (S12 in FIG. 3). AndThe coordinate value detecting means 24 isThe detected continuous length L of the black pixel is set to a predetermined lateral threshold TX₁(S13 in FIG. 3) and the result of this comparison L ≧ TX₁If so, the detected black pixel is extracted as a horizontal ruled line a (S14 in FIG. 3). That is,The coordinate value detecting means 24 isThe length of black pixels detected by scanning is set as the vertical threshold TY.₁And lateral threshold TX₁Compared to the vertical threshold TY₁And lateral threshold TX₁A black pixel having a longer run length is extracted as a horizontal ruled line a. As a result, the coordinate values (X_lt, Y_lt) And (X_rt, Y_rt) Is obtained.
[0052]
  next,The coordinate value detecting means 24 isBase point (X₀, Y₀) To the Y2 direction (S15, S16 and S10 in FIG. 3), and the horizontal ruled line c is extracted by performing the same steps as those for extracting the horizontal ruled line a described above (S11 to S14 in FIG. 3). ). As a result, the coordinate values (X_lb, Y_lb) And (X_rb, Y_rb) Is obtained.
[0053]
  Next, the base point (X₀, Y₀) To X1 direction (S17 and S18 in FIG. 4), and the vertical ruled line b is extracted.
[0054]
  First,The coordinate value detecting means 24 isThe continuous length L of the black pixels detected by this scanning is set to a predetermined lateral threshold TX₂(S19 in FIG. 4).The coordinate value detecting means 24 isAs a result of this comparison, L ≧ TX₂Then, the Y direction is scanned (S20 in FIG. 4). AndThe coordinate value detecting means 24 isThe detected black pixel run length L is set to a predetermined vertical threshold value TY.₂(S21 in FIG. 4), the result of this comparison L ≧ TY₂If so, the detected black pixel is extracted as a vertical ruled line b (S22 in FIG. 4). That is,The coordinate value detecting means 24 isThe length of black pixels detected by scanning is set as the vertical threshold TY.₂And lateral threshold TX₂Compared to the vertical threshold TY₂And lateral threshold TX₂A black pixel having a longer run length is extracted as a vertical ruled line b. As a result, the coordinate values (X_rt, Y_rt) And (X_rb, Y_rb) Is obtained.
[0055]
  next,The coordinate value detecting means 24 isBase point (X₀, Y₀) To the X2 direction (S23, S24 and S18 in FIG. 4), and the vertical ruled line d is extracted (S19 to S22 in FIG. 4) by performing the same steps as those for extracting the vertical ruled line b described above. ). As a result, the coordinate values (X_lb, Y_lb) And (X_lt, Y_lt) Is obtained.
[0056]
  AndThe coordinate value detecting means 24 isFrom the coordinate values of both ends of the vertical ruled line and horizontal ruled line extracted in the above steps (S9 in FIG. 3 to S24 in FIG. 4), the coordinate value (X_lt, Y_lt), (X_lb, Y_lb), (X_rt, Y_rt) And (X_rb, Y_rb) Is obtained (S25 in FIG. 4). The coordinate values of these intersectionsIsThe coordinate value of the entry frame is stored in the format memory 40.
[0057]
  As described above, according to the format control program creation method of this embodiment,An operator can designate an entry frame in which one point exists as a detection target only by designating one point in the entry frame.. Also,According to this method, the operatorSpecify one point in the entry boxJustThe coordinate value of the entry frame (the vertex of the entry frame) can be automatically detected. Therefore, the operability is improved because it is not necessary to measure the coordinate value of the entry frame manually as in the prior art.
[0058]
  [Second Embodiment]
  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the second embodiment. The format creation apparatus according to the second embodiment is configured to include first continuous entry frame designating means 50 instead of the entry frame designating means 22 of the configuration of the first embodiment. In the format creation device of the second embodiment, the first continuous entry frame designating means 50 is provided, so that n entry frames (where n is an integer satisfying n ≧ 2) having the same shape include vertical ruled lines. Or, if they are arranged continuously in the extending direction of the horizontal ruled lines,As a detection targetThe specification is made efficient. Note that description of the same components as those in the first embodiment is omitted.
[0059]
  The first continuous entry frame detecting means 50By operatorImage display means 12In the tableOne point in the inner area of the first entry box in the displayed image1 point when is specifiedAs the starting point,By operatorOne point in the inner area of the nth entry box1 point when is specifiedAs the end point,Furthermore, by the operatorNumber of boxes nWhen is specifiedBy dividing the line connecting the start point and the end point by (n−1), one point in the inner area of the i-th entry frame (where i is an integer satisfying n−1 ≧ i ≧ 2) is obtained.Calculate the entry frame where the calculated one point exists as a detection targetIt is a means to specify. The first continuous entry frame designation means 50 includes a control unit 26, an image memory 30, an input unit 34, and a format memory 40.
[0060]
  FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of designation of the continuous entry frame by the first continuous entry frame designating unit 50 and shows a part of the form image displayed by the image display unit 12. In the form image shown in FIG. 7, n number of entry frames 56 having the same shape (where n is an integer satisfying n ≧ 2) are continuous in the extending direction of the horizontal ruled line 60b (X direction in FIG. 7). Thus, a continuous entry frame 58 is arranged. In FIG. 7, only the first, second, (n−1) th and nth entry boxes are shown, and the other entry boxes are omitted.
[0061]
  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a second format creation flow by the format creation apparatus of the second embodiment. This second format creation flow is a first continuous entry frame designation step (S26 in FIG. 8) instead of the entry frame designation step (S3 in FIG. 2) of the first format creation flow described with reference to FIG. The flow includes.
[0062]
  By this first continuous entry frame designation step (S26 in FIG. 8), all the entry frames 56 constituting the continuous entry frame 58 are changed.As a detection targetIt is specified. Then, by the next coordinate value detection step (S4 in FIG. 8),As a detection targetThe coordinate value of the designated entry frame 56 is detected, and the entry frame display step (S5 in FIG. 8) and the field information setting step (S6 in FIG. 8) are performed as in the first format creation flow. Is filled in the format memory 40. The above steps (S26, S4, S5 and S6 in FIG. 8) are repeated for all the continuous entry frames 58.As a detection targetRepeat until specified (S27 in FIG. 8).
[0063]
  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a first continuous entry frame designation flow performed in the first continuous entry frame designation step (S26 in FIG. 8). Hereinafter, the operation of the first continuous entry frame designating unit 50 will be described with reference to this flowchart.
[0064]
  First,The first continuous entry frame designation means 50 is determined by the operator.Image display means 12IndisplayIsOne point in the inner area of the first entry frame in the selected image1 point when is specifiedIs designated as the starting point (S28 in FIG. 9). That is,The operatorBy using the input unit 34, in the image stored in the image memory 30, the first entry frame 56 (the entry frame 56 on the left side of FIG. 7) among the n entry frames arranged continuously. 1 point (X_S, Y_S)specify. In response to this, the first continuous entry frame designating means 50 makes one point (X _S , Y _S )Specify as the starting point.
[0065]
  next,The first continuous entry frame designation means 50Similarly,By operatorOne point in the inner area of the nth entry box1 point when is specifiedIs designated as the end point (S29 in FIG. 9). That is,The operatorUsing the input unit 34, one point (X in the inner area of the nth entry frame 56 (the right entry frame 56 in FIG. 7) among the n consecutively arranged entry frames._E, Y_E)specify. In response to this, the first continuous entry frame designating means 50 makes one point (X _E , Y _E )Specify as end point.
[0066]
  next,The first continuous entry frame designation means 50 is determined by the operator.Number of boxes nButSpecifiedWhen it is performed (S30 in FIG. 9), the operation is as follows.
[0067]
  That is, the operator uses the input unit 34 to designate the number n of n entry frames arranged in succession. In response to this, the first continuous entry frame designating unit 50Start point (X_S, Y_S) And end point (X_E, Y_E) (I.e., the line indicated by symbol e in FIG. 7) is divided into (n-1) and the i-th (where i is an integer satisfying n-1 ≧ i ≧ 2) inside the entry frame One point in the areaCalculate the entry frame where the calculated one point exists as a detection targetIt designates (S31 of FIG. 9). Here, the coordinate value (X_i, Y_i)
  X_i= (X_E-X_S) / (N-1) + X_i-1        ... (1)
  Y_i= (Y_E-Y_S) / (N-1) + Y_i-1        ... (2)
The following relational expression holds. Therefore, in the above equations (1) and (2), when i = 2 (X₁, Y₁) As (X_S, Y_S), Each coordinate value (X_i, Y_i) Can be calculated. in this way,The first continuous entry frame designation means 50(N-2) entry boxes between the first entry box and the nth entry boxAs a detection targetCan be specified. Note that the condition of equation (2) does not necessarily have to be satisfied._i= Y_i-1The Y coordinate may be a constant value.
[0068]
  As described above, according to the format creation device of the second embodiment,eachWhen the entry frames have the same shape and they are continuously arranged in one direction, as described in the first embodiment,To the operatorOne entry boxWithout having to specifySpecify two entry frames and total number of entry framesJust let me know, AutomaticallyTheEntry boxSpecify as detection targetIt is possible. Therefore, the number of times of input of information by the operator is reduced compared to the conventional case and the case of the first embodiment.
[0069]
  [Third Embodiment]
  FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the third embodiment. The format creation apparatus according to the third embodiment is configured to include second continuous entry frame designation means 52 instead of the entry frame designation means 22 of the configuration of the first embodiment. In the format creation device of the third embodiment, the second continuous entry frame designating means 52 is provided, so that n entry frames of the same shape (where n is an integer satisfying n ≧ 2) have vertical ruled lines. Or, if they are arranged continuously in the extending direction of the horizontal ruled lines,As a detection targetThe specification is made efficient. Note that description of the same components as those in the first embodiment is omitted.
[0070]
  The second continuous entry frame detecting means 52By operatorImage display means 12In the tableOne point in the inner area of the first entry box in the displayed image1 point when is specifiedAs the starting point,Furthermore, by the operatorOne point in the inner area of the nth entry box1 point when is specifiedIs specified as the end point, the length along the extending direction of the first entry frame including the start point is detected as the entry frame width, and the line segment connecting the start point and the end point is divided for each entry frame width. One point in the inner area of the jth entry box (where j is an integer satisfying n-1 ≧ j ≧ 2)Calculate the entry frame where the calculated one point exists as a detection targetIt is a means to specify. The second continuous entry frame designation means 52 includes a control unit 26, an image memory 30, an input unit 34, and a format memory 40.
[0071]
  FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of designation of a continuous entry frame by the second continuous entry frame designating unit 52, and shows a part of a form image displayed by the image display unit 12. In FIG. In the form image shown in FIG. 11, n number of entry frames 56 having the same shape (where n is an integer satisfying n ≧ 2) are continuous in the extending direction of the horizontal ruled line 60b (X direction in FIG. 11). Thus, a continuous entry frame 58 is arranged. In FIG. 11, only the first, second, third, (n−1) th and nth entry boxes are shown, and the other entry boxes are omitted.
[0072]
  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a third format creation flow by the format creation apparatus of the third embodiment. This third format creation flow is a second continuous entry frame designation step (S32 in FIG. 12) instead of the entry frame designation step (S3 in FIG. 2) of the first format creation flow described with reference to FIG. The flow includes.
[0073]
  By this second continuous entry frame designation step (S32 in FIG. 12), all the entry frames 56 constituting the continuous entry frame 58 are changed.As a detection targetIt is specified. Then, by the next coordinate value detection step (S4 in FIG. 12),As a detection targetThe coordinate value of the designated entry frame 56 is detected, and the entry frame display step (S5 in FIG. 12) and the field information setting step (S6 in FIG. 12) are performed as in the first format creation flow. Is filled in the format memory 40. Then, the above steps (S32, S4, S5 and S6 in FIG. 12) are repeated for all the continuous entry frames 58.As a detection targetRepeat until specified (S27 in FIG. 12).
[0074]
  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a second continuous entry frame designation flow performed in the second continuous entry frame designation step (S32 in FIG. 12). Hereinafter, the operation of the second continuous entry frame designation means 52 will be described with reference to this flowchart.
[0075]
  First,The second continuous entry frame designating means 52 is determined by the operator.Image display means 12IndisplayIsOne point in the inner area of the first entry frame in the selected image1 point when is specifiedIs designated as the starting point (S33 in FIG. 13). That is,The operatorBy using the input unit 34, in the image stored in the image memory 30, the first entry frame 56 (the entry frame 56 on the left side in FIG. 11) among n entry frames arranged in succession. 1 point (X_S, Y_S)specify. In response to this, the second continuous entry frame designating means 52 determines one point (X _S , Y _S )Specify as the starting point.
[0076]
  next,The second continuous entry frame designation means 52Similarly,By operatorOne point in the inner area of the nth entry box1 point when is specifiedIs designated as the end point (S35 in FIG. 13). That is,The operatorUsing the input unit 34, one point (X in the inner region of the nth entry frame 56 (the right entry frame 56 in FIG. 11) among n consecutively arranged entry frames._E, Y_E)specify. In response to this, the second continuous entry frame designating means 52 determines one point (X _E , Y _E )Specify as end point.
[0077]
  next,The second continuous entry frame designation means 52Start point (X_S, Y_S) Including the first entry frame 56 in the extending direction (X direction in FIG. 11) is detected as the entry frame width W (S36 in FIG. 13). This entry frame width W can be detected by detecting the coordinate value of the first entry frame 56 in accordance with the <entry frame detection> described above by using the coordinate value detecting means 24 and obtaining the entry frame width W therefrom. it can.
[0078]
  next,The second continuous entry frame designation means 52Start point (X_S, Y_S) And end point (X_E, Y_E) (The line indicated by the symbol e in FIG. 11) is divided for each entry frame width W, and the jth (where j is an integer satisfying n−1 ≧ j ≧ 2) One point in the inner areaCalculate the entry frame where the calculated one point exists as a detection targetIt designates (S37 in FIG. 13). Here, the coordinate value (X_j, Y_j)
  X_j= W + X_j-1                                ... (3)
  Y_j= W (Y_E-Y_S) / (X_E-X_S) + Y_j-1  ... (4)
The following relational expression holds. Therefore, in the above equations (3) and (4), when j = 2 (X₁, Y₁) As (X_S, Y_S), Each coordinate value (X_j, Y_j) Can be calculated. in this way,The second continuous entry frame designation means 52 is 1Each (n-2) entry boxes between the nth entry box and the nth entry box can be designated. Note that the condition of equation (4) does not necessarily have to be satisfied._j= Y_j-1The Y coordinate may be a constant value.
[0079]
  As described above, according to the format creation device of the third embodiment,eachWhen the entry frames have the same shape and they are continuously arranged in one direction, as described in the first embodiment,To the operatorOne entry boxWithout having to specifySpecify two entry boxesJust let me know, AutomaticallyTheEntry boxSpecify as detection targetIt is possible. Therefore, the number of times of input of information by the operator is reduced compared to the conventional case and the case of the first embodiment.
[0080]
  And according to the format creation device of the third embodiment, as explained in the second embodiment,To the operatorEnter the total number of boxesLetThere is no need to As described above, the second embodimentIn this configuration, the operator inputs the total number of entry frames using a keyboard or the like.There must be. OrThe configuration of the second embodiment is as follows:Prepare a menu screen as a system to enter the total number of entry frames,To the operatorUsing a pointing device such as a mouseTheSpecify total numberLetThere must be. However, in the configuration of the third embodiment,To the operatorSpecify the total number of boxesLetThere is no need to specify the coordinate point.LetBecauseTo the operatorPerform all operations using only a pointing deviceShowIt is possible. Therefore, in the third embodiment, as described above,To the operatorSpecify the total number of boxesLetThere is no need to prepare a menu screen. Therefore, it is understood that the operability is improved according to the third embodiment.
[0081]
【The invention's effect】
  According to the format creation device of the first invention related to this application, an image of a sample form is taken in,By operatorBox for this imageWhen one of the points is specified, the entry box where that one point exists is detected.By specifyingAs a detection targetThe coordinate value of the specified box can be detected, soAccording to the format creation device of the present invention, the detection targetIt is possible to automatically obtain the dimensions and position of the entry frame. By setting other field information together with the coordinate value of the entry frame, a format control program can be created based on these field information.
[0082]
  Further, according to the preferred configuration example of the format creation device of the present invention, first, the entry frame designation means performs the entry frame.As a detection targetSpecified, and then by coordinate value detection meansAs a detection targetThe vertical ruled lines and the horizontal ruled lines constituting the designated entry frame are extracted, and the coordinate values of the intersections of the vertical ruled lines and the horizontal ruled lines are extracted as the coordinate values of the four vertices of the entry frame. in this way,According to this format creation device, the operatorBy designating one point in the inner area of the entry frame, the coordinate values (coordinate values of the entry frame) of the above-mentioned four vertices of the entry frame can be detected.
[0083]
  Further, according to a preferred configuration example of the format creation device of the present invention, a formeachWhen the entry boxes have the same shape and are continuously arranged in one directionIn, Each entry frame of the form by the first continuous entry frame designation meansAs a detection targetCan be easily specified. And theseAs a detection targetThe coordinate value of each designated entry frame can be detected by the coordinate value detection means described above. in this way,According to this configuration example, the operatorFirst entry boxOne point andnth boxOne point andThe number of boxes andButSpecifiedIsAll the boxesAs a detection targetIt is possible to automatically specify and automatically obtain the size and position of each entry frame. AndAccording to this configuration example,By setting other field information together with the coordinate values of these entry frames, a format control program can be created based on these field information.
[0084]
  Further, according to a preferred configuration example of the format creation device of the present invention, a formeachWhen the entry boxes have the same shape and are continuously arranged in one directionIn, Each entry frame of the form by the second continuous entry frame designation meansAs a detection targetCan be easily specified. And theseAs a detection targetThe coordinate value of each designated entry frame can be detected by the coordinate value detection means described above. in this way,According to this configuration example, the operatorFirst entry boxOne point andnth boxOne of the pointsSpecifiedIsAll the boxesAs a detection targetIt is possible to automatically specify and automatically obtain the size and position of each entry frame. AndAccording to this configuration example,By setting other field information together with the coordinate values of these entry frames, a format control program can be created based on these field information. Furthermore, according to this configuration example, it is not necessary to designate the number of entry frames, so that means for designating this is unnecessary.
[0085]
  Preferably, in the format creation device of the present invention, by providing entry frame display means,Detected by entry box detection meansFrom the coordinate valueCreatedFilled inFrameStatue andOf sample formsWith the original imageDisplay on the image display means. As a result, the operator creates an entry frame image and the original image of the sample form.Can be compared,Fill in boxIt is possible to confirm the detection result.
[0086]
  According to the method for creating a format control program of the second invention related to this application,ofimageTheCapture,By operatorIn this imageWhen one point in the entry box is specified, that one point existsFill in the boxAs a detection targetBy designating, the coordinate value of the entry frame can be obtained. Therefore,According to this method,The setting of the coordinate value of the entry frame does not have to be performed manually as in the prior art, and can be performed automatically.
[0087]
  Preferably, in the method of creating the format control program, in the entry frame designation stepAs a detection targetBy scanning the image of the designated entry frame, the vertical ruled lines and the horizontal ruled lines are extracted, and then by calculating the intersection of the vertical ruled lines and the horizontal ruled lines,To be detectedThe coordinate value of the entry frame can be obtained.
[0088]
  Preferably, in the format control program creation method,eachWhen the entry boxes have the same shape and are continuously arranged in one directionBy the operatorFirst entry boxOne point andnth boxOne point andThe number of entry boxes nButSpecifiedIsAll the boxesAs a detection targetIt is possible to automatically specify and automatically obtain the size and position of each entry frame. AndAccording to this method,By setting other field information together with the coordinate values of these entry frames, a format control program can be created based on these field information.
[0089]
  Preferably, in the format control program creation method,eachWhen the entry boxes have the same shape and are continuously arranged in one directionBy the operatorFirst entry boxOne point andnth boxOne of the pointsSpecifiedIsAll the boxesAs a detection targetIt is possible to automatically specify and automatically obtain the size and position of each entry frame. AndAccording to this method,By setting other field information together with the coordinate values of these entry frames, a format control program can be created based on these field information. Further, according to this method, since it is not necessary to designate the number of entry frames, a means for designating this is unnecessary.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a first exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a first format creation flow;
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a coordinate value detection flow;
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a coordinate value detection flow continued from FIG. 3;
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of entry frame detection;
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration of a second exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of designation of a first continuous entry frame.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a second format creation flow;
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a first continuous entry frame designation flow.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration of a third exemplary embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a designation example of a second continuous entry frame.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a third format creation flow.
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a second continuous entry frame designation flow.
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a form.
[Explanation of symbols]
  10: Image capturing means 12: Image display means
  14: entry frame detection means 16: entry frame setting means
  18: Field information setting means
  20: Format control program generation means
  22: Entry frame designation means 24: Coordinate value detection means
  26: Control unit 28: Image scanner
  30: Image memory 32: Display
  34: Input unit 36: Keyboard
  38: Mouse 40: Format memory
  42: entry frame detector
  44: Format control program creation section
  46: external storage device 48: entry frame display means
  50: First continuous entry frame designation means
  52: Second continuous entry frame designation means
  54: Form 56: Fill frame
  58: Continuous entry frame 60: Ruled line
  60a: Vertical ruled line 60b: Horizontal ruled line
  62: Area in entry frame 64: Character
  66: Paper 68: Form ID
  70: Sample form

Claims (9)

A format creation apparatus for creating a format control program for causing a form to be read by an optical character reader, the entry frame setting means for setting a coordinate value of an entry frame of a sample form, and the coordinate value In a format creation device comprising field information setting means for setting field information other than, and format control program generation means for generating the format control program from the set coordinate values and field information,
The entry frame setting means includes:
Image capturing means for acquiring an image of the sample form;
An image display unit that displays the image acquired by the image capturing means,
Entry frame detection means for detecting the coordinate value of the entry frame;
The entry frame detection means includes:
An entry frame designating unit for designating an entry frame in which the one point exists as a detection target when one point of the internal region of the entry frame in the image displayed on the image display unit is designated by an operator ;
The image is scanned in the vertical and horizontal directions using one point in the inner area of the entry frame designated as the detection target by the entry frame designating means to detect black pixels. From the vertical and horizontal thresholds, The black pixels having a large run length are extracted as vertical ruled lines and horizontal ruled lines constituting the entry frame, and the coordinate values of the intersections of the extracted vertical ruled lines and horizontal ruled lines are detected as coordinate values of the entry frame designated by the operator. a coordinate value detecting means for
A format creation device characterized by comprising: The format creation device according to claim 1,
  The coordinate value detecting means includes
  When extracting a vertical ruled line, a black pixel is detected by performing a horizontal scan of the image with one point in the inner area of the entry frame designated as a detection target by the entry frame designating means as a base point. When the horizontal length of the black pixel is compared with the horizontal threshold, and the horizontal length of the black pixel is larger than the horizontal threshold, the image is scanned in the vertical direction to A vertical run length is detected, the vertical run length of the black pixel is compared with a vertical threshold, and when the vertical run length of the black pixel is greater than the vertical threshold, the horizontal threshold and the vertical run Extracting the black pixels larger than the direction threshold as vertical ruled lines, and
  When a horizontal ruled line is extracted, black pixels are detected by scanning the image in the vertical direction using one point in the inner area of the entry frame designated as a detection target by the entry frame designating means. The vertical length of the black pixel is compared with a vertical threshold, and when the vertical length of the black pixel is larger than the vertical threshold, the image is scanned in the horizontal direction to A horizontal run length is detected, and the horizontal run length of the black pixel is compared with a horizontal threshold. When the horizontal run length of the black pixel is greater than the horizontal threshold, the vertical threshold and the horizontal Extract black pixels larger than the direction threshold as horizontal ruled lines
A format creation device characterized by that. In the format creation device according to claim 1 or 2 ,
When n (where n is an integer satisfying n ≧ 2) of the same shape and the above-mentioned entry frames are continuously arranged in the extending direction of the vertical ruled lines or horizontal ruled lines,
As the entry frame designation means,
When one point of the inner area of the first entry frame in the image displayed on the image display means is designated by the operator , the one point is designated as the starting point, and the operator places the inside of the nth entry frame. When one point of the area is designated , the one point is designated as an end point. Further, when the number n of the entry frames is designated by the operator, a line segment connecting the start point and the end point (n -1) By dividing, one point in the inner area of the i-th entry frame (where i is an integer satisfying n-1 ≧ i ≧ 2) is calculated, and the calculated entry frame in which the one point exists is calculated formatter, characterized in that it comprises a first continuous entry boxes designating means for designating as a detection target. In the format creation device according to claim 1 or 2 ,
When n (where n is an integer satisfying n ≧ 2) of the same shape and the above-mentioned entry frames are continuously arranged in the extending direction of the vertical ruled lines or horizontal ruled lines,
As the entry frame designation means,
When one point of the inner area of the first entry frame in the image displayed on the image display means is designated by the operator , the one point is designated as the starting point, and the nth entry box is further designated by the operator. When one point of the inner area is designated , the one point is designated as the end point, and the length along the extending direction of the first entry frame including the start point is detected as the entry frame width. By dividing a line segment connecting the start point and the end point into each entry frame width, one point of the inner area of the entry frame of the jth (where j is an integer satisfying n−1 ≧ j ≧ 2) And a second continuous entry frame designating means for designating an entry frame in which the calculated one point exists as a detection target . In the format creation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4 ,
Format, characterized in that it comprises a filling frame display means for displaying on the image display unit together with the image acquired by said image capturing means mark frames image created from the detected coordinate values by the entry frame detector Creation device. By an optical character reader and a fill frame detecting means and image capturing means and image display means, to a method of making a format control program for allowing I row reading of the form, the coordinate values of the input frames of sample form In setting
The image capturing means for acquiring an image of the sample form; and
The image display means, and an image displaying step that displays the image acquired by the image acquisition step,
The entry frame detection means comprises an entry frame detection step for detecting a coordinate value of the entry frame;
The entry frame detection step includes:
When the operator specifies one point in the inner area of the entry frame in the image displayed in the image display step by the operator, an entry for designating the entry frame in which the one point exists as a detection target Frame specification step , and
The entry frame detecting means is performed, as a step of scanning the vertical and horizontal directions of the image a point interior of a specified entry box as detected by said input frame designation step as a base point, the scanning step An extraction step of comparing the continuous length of the black pixels detected by the vertical threshold and the horizontal threshold, and extracting the black pixels having a continuous length larger than the vertical threshold and the horizontal threshold as vertical ruled lines and horizontal ruled lines; A coordinate value detection step comprising: a detection step of detecting the coordinate value of the intersection of the vertical ruled line and the horizontal ruled line extracted in the extraction step as the coordinate value of the entry frame designated by the operator ;
A method for creating a format control program, comprising: The method for creating a format control program according to claim 6,
  The coordinate value detection step includes:
  When the entry frame detection means extracts a vertical ruled line, a horizontal scanning step of scanning the horizontal direction of the image from one point in the inner area of the entry frame designated as a detection target in the entry frame designation step A horizontal comparison step of comparing the horizontal direction length of the black pixel detected by the horizontal direction scanning step with a horizontal direction threshold value, and the horizontal direction length of the black pixel in the horizontal direction comparison step is the horizontal direction. A vertical scanning step of scanning the vertical direction of the image when larger than a threshold, and a vertical comparison step of comparing the vertical length of the black image detected by the vertical scanning step with a vertical threshold; When the vertical direction length of the black pixel is larger than the vertical direction threshold in the vertical direction comparison step, the black pixel larger than the horizontal direction threshold and the vertical direction threshold is extracted as a vertical ruled line. Line extraction step and,
  When the entry frame detection means extracts a horizontal ruled line, the entry frame designation step determines the detection target. The vertical scanning step of scanning the vertical direction of the image with one point in the inner area of the designated entry frame as a base point, and the vertical length of the black pixel detected by the vertical scanning step A vertical direction comparing step for comparing with a direction threshold; a horizontal direction scanning step for scanning the horizontal direction of the image when the vertical direction length of the black pixel is larger than the vertical direction threshold in the vertical direction comparing step; The horizontal direction comparison step of comparing the horizontal direction length of the black image detected in the horizontal direction scanning step with a horizontal direction threshold value, and the horizontal direction length of the black pixel in the horizontal direction comparison step is larger than the horizontal direction threshold value. A horizontal ruled line extracting step for extracting the black pixel larger than the horizontal threshold and the horizontal threshold as a horizontal ruled line;
An apparatus for creating a format control program, comprising: In the creation method of the format control program of Claim 6 or Claim 7 ,
When n (where n is an integer satisfying n ≧ 2) of the same shape and the above-mentioned entry frames are continuously arranged in the extending direction of the vertical ruled lines or horizontal ruled lines,
The entry frame designation step includes:
The entry frame detecting means, when one point of the inner region of the first of said input frame in the display image in the image display step is designated by the operator, the start point designation step of designating the point as the starting point ,
An end point designating step in which the entry frame detecting means designates one point as an end point when one point of the inner region of the nth entry frame in the image displayed in the image display step is designated by the operator ; ,
The entry frame detection means is designated at the start point and the end point designation step designated at the start point designation step when the number n of the entry frames in the image displayed at the image display step is designated by an operator. The line segment connecting the end point is divided by (n−1) to calculate one point in the inner area of the entry frame of i-th (where i is an integer satisfying n−1 ≧ i ≧ 2). And a designation step for designating the entry frame in which the one point exists as a detection target . In the creation method of the format control program of Claim 6 or Claim 7 ,
When n (where n is an integer satisfying n ≧ 2) the same shape and the above-mentioned entry frames are continuously arranged in the extending direction of the vertical ruled line or the horizontal ruled line,
The entry frame designation step includes:
A start point designating step in which the entry frame detecting means designates one point as the start point when one point in the inner area of the first entry frame in the image displayed in the image display step is designated by the operator ; ,
An end point designating step for designating one point as an end point when the entry frame detecting means designates one point in the inner area of the nth entry frame in the image displayed in the image display step by the operator ; ,
An entry frame width detecting step in which the entry frame detection means detects, as an entry frame width, the length along the extending direction of the first entry frame including the start point specified in the start point specifying step ;
The entry frame detecting means detects a line segment connecting the start point specified in the start point specifying step and the end point specified in the end point specifying step for each entry frame width detected in the entry frame width detecting step. Divide and calculate one point in the inner area of the entry frame of jth (where j is an integer satisfying n−1 ≧ j ≧ 2), and designate the entry frame where the calculated one point exists as a detection target how to create format control program characterized by comprising a specifying step of.

Images