Description and recognition of form and automated form data entry

Abstract

In this paper we present a form description method, in which frame lines are used to constitute a so-called frame template, which reflects the structure of a form either topologically or geometrically. Relevant item traversal algorithm is then proposed to locate and label form's items. We have also developed a robust and fast frame line detection method to make this form description practical for form recognition. Experimental results show our approach provides an effective way to convert printed forms into computerized format or collect information for database from printed forms.