Patent Class: Image Analysis (382/147)

GENERAL STATEMENT OF THE CLASS SUBJECT MATTER This is the generic class for apparatus and correspondingmethods for the automated analysis of an image or recognition ofa pattern*. Included herein are systems that transforman image for the purpose of (a) enhancing its visual quality priorto recognition, (b) locating and registering the image relativeto a sensor or stored prototype, or reducing the amount of imagedata by discarding irrelevant data, and (c) measuring significant characteristicsof the image. (1)Note. Automated document pattern* analysis or verification,which includes detection of alphanumerics, is classified in this class. (2)Note. To be classified herein, no actual recognition or identificationneed be performed. It is sufficient that substantial digital imageprocessing, such as a coding, enhancement, or transformation process,be performed on the image data for classification herein.