Patented Scoring System
By Lisa Cross -- graphic arts online, 4/1/2006
The U.S. Patent Office granted Scan-Optics a patent for its AccuScore software, a program that reads “bubble” forms (shown) using electronic imaging technology that reduces the cost and precision required to print the form without sacrificing accuracy.
The scoring of “bubble” forms using automated equipment has been in the news lately, as Pearson Educational Measurement was faulted for misreading thousands of high school SAT scores last month. Hundreds of students lost scholarship and college admissions opportunities due to poor performance of answer sheets moving through scanners.
What differentiates its latest program, says Scan-Optics, is that it combines electronic imaging technology and specialized image processing software to score (read) such standardized tests, as well as questionnaires, voting ballots or any type of forms that are completed by filling in small preprinted circles or ellipses with a pencil.
AccuScore works in conjunction with an image capture scanner that produces an electronic reproduction of each form.
The electronic images are processed by a software program to produce scoring results that achieve an accuracy rate equal to or better than those achieved by the LED (light-emitting diode) scanners, says the company.
The software program is comprised of two components. A form definition tool, called OmrGen, precisely defines the locations and interpretations of each bubble target. A scoring engine, called GSOMR, that processes the images from the scanner using the forms definition information and produces the score results.
Scan-Optics' AccuScore product can be used with various makes and models of scanners, reports the company, but the most accurate results are achieved when using scanners that produce grayscale or color image output.
