Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus and method for providing access to computerized information services for users unequipped with computers, particularly information services related to commercial transactions. Facsimile images of hardcopy forms are used as means for conveying transactional information. Each facsimile image contains character and data fields with information for a particular trade transaction. The system captures the facsimile image in bitmap form and converts the character and data fields into computer readable form. The system enhances each image and performs several levels of feature extraction, including character recognition techniques. To efficiently and automatically convert great document volumes, the system optimizes database lookup and human operator manual keying to assist character recognition techniques in developing accurate coded text from the features of the facsimile image. The system must produce accurate coded text strings as the system subsequently converts the coded text string into files of coded text or EDI messages for transmission over telecommunications networks to independent computer systems. Unrecognized or inaccurate characters in the coded text are impermissible in order to form valid EDI messages or coded text files. Thus, validation of the coded text is an important part of the present invention. Additionally, user services provide additional processing of data received from independent computer systems into management information of additional business value to particular system users.

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First Claim