Importance

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Abstract

A system for the automated transfer of data includes a means for transmitting a paper form by telephone, a means for receiving the transmitted image of that form, and a computer connected to the receiving means. The format on the paper form is prepared using a program on the computer, and a copy of that format is stored in the computer. The format includes option boxes, alphanumeric blocks for specific data collection and blank figure-8 boxes for collecting numerical information. An operator of the computer selects the particular format required according to the needs of the location(s) having the transmitting means. The format is then transmitted to the location(s) either physically as a paper form or electronically over the telephone. Personnel at the location(s) select from the various options on the paper form, and return an image of the form by telephone to the receiving means. Without requiring human supervision, the computer interprets the responses using its stored knowledge of the positions on the form at which the various options were placed when the particular format was created. The response may include data that the computer adds to data bases or may be a command such as asking the computer to send the current state of a data base by telephone to the location(s).

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First Claim