Non-OCR method for capture of computer filled-in forms

Abstract

A method for capturing content from a legacy data system. A print format language (PFL) file is generated by the legacy data system corresponding to a printed form or report. A corresponding PFL template is defined that is used delineate dynamic zones of the printed form or report from static areas, wherein the static areas contain content that is constant across multiple pages of forms (e.g., fixed graphical and formatting content and field titles) and the dynamic zones contain content that varies (e.g., field values). Through application of the template, the legacy system data are extracted from the PFL file. Portions of the extracted legacy system data corresponding to each of the plurality of fields of the legacy system form or report are determined and the data are provided to a new data system in a manner that relates each portion of the extracted legacy system data with the field which it corresponds.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.