Patent Publication Number: US-2015067465-A1

Title: Handwritten document processing device, handwritten document processing method, and handwritten document processing program

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is based upon and claims the benefit of priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2013-179845, filed on Aug. 30, 2013; the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     FIELD 
     Embodiments described herein relate generally to a handwritten document processing device, a handwritten document processing method, and a handwritten document processing program. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Information including a table is handwritten electronically using, for example, a pen input interface, etc. The handwritten table is appropriately processed to format the table. It is desirable to convert the handwritten table into easily-usable table data. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a schematic view showing a handwritten document processing device according to a first embodiment; 
         FIG. 2  is a schematic view showing stroke data of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 3  is a schematic view showing the processing result of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 4  is a schematic view showing processing results of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 5  is a schematic view showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 6  is a flowchart showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 7  is a flowchart showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 8  is a flowchart showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 9  is a schematic view showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 10A  and  FIG. 10B  are schematic views showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 11  is a schematic view showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 12  is a schematic view showing data used in the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 13  is a schematic view showing the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment; 
         FIG. 14  is a schematic view showing the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment; and 
         FIG. 15  is a flowchart showing the operations of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     According to one embodiment, a handwritten document processing device includes an input/output unit and a processing unit. The input/output unit is configured to acquire a plurality of sets of stroke data of a handwritten document. The processing unit is capable of implementing a first processing operation of deriving table data based on the sets of stroke data acquired by the input/output unit and supplying the table data to the input/output unit. The table data include first ruled line data, second ruled line data, and first cell data. The first cell data include a shape pattern. The shape pattern is predetermined. A length in a second direction of a cell shape and an inter-ruled line distance along the second direction between a first ruled line and a second ruled line are independently modifiable. The first ruled line is generated based on the first ruled line data and extends in a first direction. The second ruled line is generated based on the second ruled line data and extends in the first direction. The second direction intersects the first direction. The cell shape is generated based on the first cell data and corresponds to the shape pattern. 
     Various embodiments will be described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
     The drawings are schematic or conceptual; and the proportions of sizes between portions, etc., are not necessarily the same as the actual values thereof. Further, the dimensions and/or the proportions may be illustrated differently between the drawings, even for identical portions. 
     In the drawings and the specification of the application, components similar to those described in regard to a drawing thereinabove are marked with like reference numerals, and a detailed description is omitted as appropriate. 
     First Embodiment 
       FIG. 1  is a schematic view showing a handwritten document processing device according to a first embodiment. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the handwritten document processing device  110  according to the embodiment includes an input/output unit  10  and a processing unit  20 . 
     The processing unit  20  includes, for example, a semiconductor device such as an arithmetic unit, etc. The processing unit  20  includes, for example, a computer. The input/output unit  10  includes, for example, a terminal of a semiconductor device, etc. The input/output unit  10  may include a terminal (including an interface) of a computer. 
     The input/output unit  10  acquires data. Any wired or wireless method is used in the acquisition of the data by the input/output unit  10 . The data that is acquired includes, for example, multiple sets of stroke data  80  of the handwritten document. Examples of the stroke data  80  are described below. 
     The processing unit  20  performs processing based on the multiple sets of stroke data  80  acquired by the input/output unit  10 . The processing unit  20  supplies the result (the data) of the processing to the input/output unit  10 . 
     A display unit  70  is connectable to the handwritten document processing device  110 . For example, the display unit  70  is connected to the input/output unit  10 . The display unit  70  includes, for example, a liquid crystal display device, an organic EL display device, a projection-type display device, etc. The display unit  70  may include a printer. In the embodiment, “displaying” also includes printing. In the embodiment, the display unit  70  is arbitrary. The display unit  70  includes a display region  71 . In the case where a printer is used as the display unit  70 , the display region  71  corresponds to a printable region. 
     The stroke data  80  is displayable by the display unit  70 . The result (the data) of the processing of the processing unit  20  is displayable by the display unit  70 . Hereinbelow, an example of a state is described in which the stroke data  80  and the result (the data) of the processing are displayed by the display unit  70 . 
       FIG. 2  is a schematic view showing stroke data of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the multiple sets of stroke data  80  include, for example, information having a table form. A user inputs the table by, for example, handwriting on a tablet for input. For example, a pen, a finger, or the like is used for the input. 
     The multiple sets of stroke data  80  include a first portion  81   u,  a second portion  82   u,  and a third portion  83   u.  For example, the first portion  81   u  includes first stroke data  81 . For example, the second portion  82   u  includes second stroke data  82 . For example, the third portion  83   u  includes third stroke data  83 . 
     In the example, the first portion  81   u,  the second portion  82   u,  and the third portion  83   u  correspond to vertical ruled line input data  80   v.  The first portion  81   u,  the second portion  82   u , and the third portion  83   u  have line configurations. In other words, the first stroke data  81 , the second stroke data  82 , and the third stroke data  83  have line configurations. 
     In the example, the multiple sets of stroke data  80  further include a fourth portion  84   u.  In the example, multiple fourth portions  84   u  are provided. The fourth portions  84   u  correspond to horizontal ruled line input data  80   h.  The multiple fourth portions  84   u  have line configurations. 
     In the example, the multiple sets of stroke data  80  include cell portions (a first cell portion  85   a  and a second cell portion  85   b ), etc. The first cell portion  85   a  includes cell stroke data  85   ac . The second cell portion  85   b  includes cell stroke data  85   bc . The cell stroke data  85   ac  and the cell stroke data  85   bc  are portions of the multiple sets of stroke data  80 . 
     In the example, the cell portions (the first cell portion  85   a  and the second cell portion  85   b ) include quadrilateral shape patterns. The shape patterns are handwritten. Examples of other patterns of the cell portions are described below. 
     In the example, the multiple sets of stroke data include arrow portions (a first arrow portion  86   a,  a second arrow portion  86   b,  etc.). The first arrow portion  86   a  includes first arrow stroke data  86   aa . The second arrow portion  86   b  includes second arrow stroke data  86   ba . The first arrow stroke data  86   aa  and the second arrow stroke data  86   ba  are portions of the multiple sets of stroke data  80 . 
     In the example, the multiple sets of stroke data  80  further include character portions  87 . The character portions  87  include a portion of the multiple sets of stroke data  80 . In the example, the character portions  87  include the handwritten character information of “A 1 ,” “B 1 ,” “C 1 ,” and “D 1 .” 
     The multiple sets of stroke data  80  of such a handwritten document are supplied to the input/output unit  10 . 
     The multiple sets of stroke data  80  include, for example, multiple sets of time series data. For example, the multiple sets of time series data correspond respectively to multiple strokes of handwriting. Each stroke includes multiple coordinates. 
     One set of stroke data includes, for example, the data of (x(1, 1), y(1, 1)), (x(1, 2), y(1, 2)), . . . , and (x(1, N(1)), y(1, N(1))). Another set of stroke data includes the data of (x(2, 1), y(2, 1)), (x(2, 2), y(2, 2)), . . . , and (x(2, N(2)), y(2, N(2))). Here, N(i) is the number of points of the sampling for the ith stroke. The stroke data corresponds to handwritten data of the handwritten input. Examples of the data structure of the stroke data are described below. 
     The processing unit  20  implements a processing operation based on the multiple sets of stroke data  80  acquired by the input/output unit  10 . A first processing operation is described as an example. 
       FIG. 3  is a schematic view showing the processing result of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
       FIG. 3  shows table data  40  derived by the processing of the processing unit  20 . The table data  40  is displayable by the display unit  70 . An example of the state in which the table data  40  is displayed by the display unit  70  will now be described. 
     The table data  40  includes first ruled line data  41   rd , second ruled line data  42   rd , and first cell data  45   ad . The first cell data  45   ad  includes a predetermined shape pattern. For example, the shape pattern includes at least one selected from a circle, a flattened circle, and a polygon. In the example, the shape pattern is a quadrilateral. In the example, the table data  40  further includes second cell data  45   bd . The second cell data  45   bd  includes a predetermined shape pattern. In the example, the table data  40  further includes third ruled line data  43   rd.    
     The table data  40  further includes arrow data (first arrow data  46   ad , second arrow data  46   bd , etc.). 
     The table data  40  includes fourth ruled line data  44   rd . The fourth ruled line data  44   rd  corresponds to the fourth portions  84   u  (the horizontal ruled line input data  80   h ) of the stroke data  80 . The table data  40  further includes character data  47   d.  The character data  47   d  corresponds to the character portions  87  of the multiple sets of stroke data  80 . 
     When such data is displayed by, for example, the display unit  70 , various shapes that are generated based on the data are displayed by the display unit  70 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , a first ruled line  41   r  is generated based on the first ruled line data  41   rd . A second ruled line  42   r  is generated based on the second ruled line data  42   rd . A third ruled line  43   r  is generated based on the third ruled line data  43   rd.    
     A cell shape (a first cell shape  45   a ) that corresponds to the shape pattern recited above is generated based on the first cell data  45   ad . A cell shape (a second cell shape  45   b ) that corresponds to the shape pattern recited above is generated based on the second cell data  45   bd.    
     A first arrow  46   a  is generated based on the first arrow data  46   ad . A second arrow  46   b  is generated based on the second arrow data  46   bd . Fourth ruled lines  44   r  are generated based on the fourth ruled line data  44   rd . Characters  47  are displayed based on the character data  47   d.    
     The first ruled line  41   r  extends in a first direction D 1 . The first direction D 1  is, for example, one direction inside the display region  71  of the display unit  70 . In the example, the first direction D 1  is the vertical direction of the display region  71 . In the embodiment, the first direction D 1  may be the left and right direction of the display region  71 . The first direction D 1  is arbitrary. 
     The second ruled line  42   r  extends in the first direction D 1 . The third ruled line  43   r  also extends in the first direction D 1 . The second ruled line  42   r  is separated from the first ruled line  41   r  in a second direction D 2 . The second direction D 2  is a direction that intersects the first direction D 1 . For example, the second direction D 2  is perpendicular to the first direction D 1 . The third ruled line  43   r  is separated from the first ruled line  41   r  in the second direction D 2  and separated from the second ruled line  42   r  in the second direction D 2 . 
     In the example, the second ruled line  42   r  is disposed between the first ruled line  41   r  and the third ruled line  43   r.  For example, at least a portion of the second ruled line  42   r  is disposed between at least a portion of the first ruled line  41   r  and at least a portion of the third ruled line  43   r.  The first ruled line  41   r,  the second ruled line  42   r,  and the third ruled line  43   r  correspond to, for example, ruled lines in the vertical direction of the table. The first ruled line  41   r  and the second ruled line  42   r  are, for example, adjacent to each other in the second direction D 2 . The second ruled line  42   r  and the third ruled line  43   r  are, for example, adjacent to each other in the second direction D 2 . 
     The processing unit  20  according to the embodiment can output the ruled line data and the cell data by separating the ruled line data and the cell data from each other. Therefore, for example, the ruled lines generated based on the ruled line data are modifiable independently from the cell shapes generated based on the cell data. 
     For example, a first inter-ruled line distance L 12  is the distance along the second direction D 2  between the first ruled line  41   r  and the second ruled line  42   r.  On the other hand, a length L 45   a  is the length in the second direction D 2  of a cell shape (e.g., the first cell shape  45   a ). A length L 45   b  is the length in the second direction D 2  of a cell shape (e.g., the second cell shape  45   b ). The first inter-ruled line distance L 12  is modifiable when displayed by the display unit  70 . 
     For example, there are cases where the user desires to modify the widths of the cells of the table. In such a case, the first inter-ruled line distance L 12  is modified by the user. In such a case, in the embodiment, the length L 45   a  and the length L 45   b  of the cell shapes, etc., are independent of the modifications of the first inter-ruled line distance L 12 . For example, the width of the first cell shape  45   a  (in the example, the quadrilateral) can be unchanged even when the user modifies the widths of the cells of the table. 
     According to the embodiment, a handwritten document processing device that converts a handwritten table into easily-usable table data can be provided. 
     For example, there is a reference example in which a handwritten document is read as image data. For example, in such a reference example, it is difficult to discriminate and recognize the shapes (the polygons, the arrows, etc.) and the ruled lines. For example, the data relating to shapes is not discriminated from the data relating to ruled lines. Therefore, there are cases where the shapes that are disposed in the cells change in conjunction with the widths of the cells (the spacing between the ruled lines) when the widths are modified. Therefore, the reference example is difficult to use. Conversely, in the embodiment, the widths of the shapes inside the cells can be unchanged when the widths of the cells are modified. 
     An example of a modification of the table will now be described. 
       FIG. 4  is a schematic view showing processing results of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
     As shown in  FIG. 4 , the widths of the cells (the spacing between the ruled lines) of the table are modifiable from the state shown in  FIG. 3 . In the example, the distance (the first inter-ruled line distance L 12 ) along the second direction D 2  between the first ruled line  41   r  and the second ruled line  42   r  is modified. In other words, the first inter-ruled line distance L 12  of  FIG. 4  is longer than the first inter-ruled line distance L 12  of  FIG. 3 . In the example, the distance (a second inter-ruled line distance L 23 ) along the second direction D 2  between the second ruled line  42   r  and the third ruled line  43   r  also is modified. In other words, the second inter-ruled line distance L 23  of  FIG. 4  is shorter than the second inter-ruled line distance L 23  of  FIG. 3 . Thus, in  FIG. 4 , the widths of the cells are enlarged or reduced. 
     In such a case, as shown in  FIG. 4 , the widths (the length L 45   a  and the length L 45   b ) of the cell shapes (the first cell shape  45   a  and the second cell shape  45   b ) are the same as those of  FIG. 3 . 
     In other words, in the embodiment, the lengths (the length L 45   a  and the length L 45   b ) in the second direction D 2  of the cell shapes (the first cell shape  45   a  and the second cell shape  45   b ) generated based on the cell data to correspond to the shape pattern and the first inter-ruled line distance L 12  along the second direction D 2  between the first ruled line  41   r  generated based on the first ruled line data  41   rd  to extend in the first direction D 1  and the second ruled line  42   r  generated based on the second ruled line data  42   rd  to extend in the first direction D 1  are independently modifiable. 
     According to the embodiment, a handwritten document processing device that converts a handwritten table into easily-usable table data can be provided. 
     In the example, the first inter-ruled line distance L 12  is modified without modifying the widths (the length L 45   a  and the length L 45   b ) of the cell shapes. In the embodiment, the widths (the length L 45   a  and the length L 45   b ) of the cell shapes may be modified. In such a case, the degree (e.g., the magnification) of the modification of the first inter-ruled line distance L 12  is independent of the degree (e.g., the magnification) of the modification of the width (the length L 45   a ) of the cell shape. The degree (e.g., the magnification) of the modification of the second inter-ruled line distance L 23  is independent of the degree (e.g., the magnification) of the modification of the width (the length L 45   b ) of the cell shape. 
     For example, as shown in  FIG. 4 , the position of the cell shape inside the cell is a relative position inside the cell. For example, as shown in  FIG. 4 , when the width of the cell including the characters “C 1 ” is enlarged from that of  FIG. 3 , the position of the cell shape (the first cell shape  45   a ) is modified according to the enlargement. For example, when the width of the cell including the characters “D 1 ” is reduced from that of  FIG. 3 , the position of the cell shape (the second cell shape  45   b ) is modified according to the reduction. 
     For example, the cell shape (the first cell shape  45   a ) is disposed between the first ruled line  41   r  and the second ruled line  42   r.  At this time, the distance (a first distance L 01 ) along the second direction D 2  between the first ruled line  41   r  and the position along the second direction D 2  of the cell shape (the first cell shape  45   a ) is linked to the first inter-ruled line distance L 12 . For example, the first distance L 01  is proportional to the first inter-ruled line distance L 12 . The first distance L 01  increases in conjunction with the increase of the first inter-ruled line distance L 12 . 
     The position along the second direction D 2  of the cell shape (the first cell shape  45   a ) may be, for example, the center of the cell shape (the first cell shape  45   a ) along the second direction D 2 . The position along the second direction D 2  of the cell shape (the first cell shape  45   a ) may be, for example, the center along the second direction D 2  of multiple points of the circumscribing rectangle of the cell shape (the first cell shape  45   a ). 
     On the other hand, in the example, the second cell shape  45   b  is disposed between the second ruled line  42   r  and the third ruled line  43   r.  In such a case, the distance (a second distance L 02 ) along the second direction D 2  between the second ruled line  42   r  and the position along the second direction D 2  of the second cell shape  45   b  is linked to the second inter-ruled line distance L 23 . For example, the second distance L 02  is proportional to the second inter-ruled line distance L 23 . The second distance L 02  decreases in conjunction with the decrease of the second inter-ruled line distance L 23 . 
     On the other hand, in the example, the shapes of arrows (the first arrow  46   a,  the second arrow  46   b,  etc.) are provided in the table. The lengths of the arrows change in conjunction with the enlargement of the widths of the cells. 
     For example, the first arrow  46   a  has a start point portion  46   as  and an end point portion  46   ae . The start point portion  46   as  is positioned between the first ruled line  41   r  and the second ruled line  42   r.  The start point portion  46   as  is separated from the first ruled line  41   r  and separated from the second ruled line  42   r.  The end point portion  46   ae  is positioned between the start point portion  46   as  and the second ruled line  42   r.  The end point portion  46   ae  is separated from the first ruled line  41   r  and separated from the second ruled line  42   r.  The length along the second direction D 2  of the first arrow  46   a  is shorter than the length along the second direction D 2  between the first ruled line  41   r  and the second ruled line  42   r.    
     The position of the start point portion  46   as  and the position of the end point portion  46   ae  can be changed in conjunction with the widths of the cells (the spacing between the ruled lines). 
     For example, the distance along the second direction D 2  between the first ruled line  41   r  and the start point portion  46   as  is linked (e.g., proportional) to the distance (the first inter-ruled line distance L 12 ) along the second direction D 2  between the first ruled line  41   r  and the second ruled line  42   r.    
     For example, the distance along the second direction D 2  between the second ruled line  42   r  and the end point portion  46   ae  is linked (e.g., proportional) to the distance (the first inter-ruled line distance L 12 ) along the second direction D 2  between the first ruled line  41   r  and the second ruled line  42   r.    
     For example, the length along the first direction D 1  of the end point portion  46   ae  is longer than the length along the first direction D 1  of the start point portion  46   as . Thereby, for the first arrow  46   a,  the discrimination between the start point portion  46   as  and the end point portion  46   ae  is easy. 
     The first arrow  46   a  is generated based on the first arrow data  46   ad . For example, the start point of the strokes included in the first arrow data  46   ad  corresponds to the start point portion  46   as . For example, the end point of the strokes included in the first arrow data  46   ad  corresponds to the end point portion  46   ae.    
     In the example, the first arrow  46   a  is provided between the first ruled line  41   r  and the second ruled line  42   r  and does not intersect the ruled lines in the horizontal direction. On the other hand, the second arrow  46   b  intersects a ruled line (in the example, the second ruled line  42   r ) in the horizontal direction. 
     In other words, the table data  40  includes the third ruled line data  43   rd  and the second arrow data  46   bd . The third ruled line  43   r  that is generated based on the third ruled line data  43   rd  extends in the first direction D 1 . The second ruled line  42   r  is disposed between the first ruled line  41   r  and the third ruled line  43   r.  The second arrow  46   b  that is generated based on the second arrow data  46   bd  extends in the second direction D 2 . 
     A start point portion  46   bs  of the second arrow  46   b  is positioned between the first ruled line  41   r  and the second ruled line  42   r.  An end point portion  46   be  of the second arrow  46   b  is positioned between the second ruled line  42   r  and the third ruled line  43   r.  In other words, the second arrow  46   b  intersects the second ruled line  42   r.    
     In such a case, the position of the start point portion  46   bs  of the second arrow  46   b  and the position of the end point portion  46   be  of the second arrow  46   b  are modifiable according to the modification of the widths of the cells. 
     For example, the distance along the second direction D 2  between the second ruled line  42   r  and the start point portion  46   bs  of the second arrow  46   b  is linked (e.g., proportional) to the distance (the first inter-ruled line distance L 12 ) along the second direction D 2  between the first ruled line  41   r  and the second ruled line  42   r.    
     For example, the distance along the second direction D 2  between the second ruled line  42   r  and the end point portion  46   be  of the second arrow  46   b  is linked (e.g., proportional) to the distance (the second inter-ruled line distance L 23 ) along the second direction D 2  between the second ruled line  42   r  and the third ruled line  43   r.    
     In other words, a table having suppressed incongruity can be displayed by changing the position of the start point portion  46   as  and the position of the end point portion  46   ae  in conjunction with the widths of the cells (the spacing between the ruled lines). 
     According to the embodiment, a handwritten document processing device that converts a handwritten table into easily-usable table data can be provided. 
     Thus, the processing unit  20  can perform the second processing operation. The second processing operation derives the table data  40  based on the multiple sets of stroke data  80  acquired by the input/output unit  10  and supplies the table data  40  to the input/output unit  10 , where the table data  40  includes the first ruled line data  41   rd , the second ruled line data  42   rd , and the first arrow data  46   ad.    
     As recited above, the first ruled line  41   r  that is generated based on the first ruled line data  41   rd  extends in the first direction D 1 . The second ruled line  42   r  that is generated based on the second ruled line data  42   rd  extends in the first direction D 1 . The first arrow  46   a  that is generated based on the first arrow data  46   ad  extends in the second direction D 2  intersecting the first direction D 1 . The start point portion  46   as  of the first arrow  46   a  is positioned between the first ruled line  41   r  and the second ruled line  42   r.  The end point portion  46   ae  of the first arrow  46   a  is positioned between the start point portion  46   as  and the second ruled line  42   r.    
     From the data recited above obtained in the second processing operation, the distance along the second direction D 2  between the first ruled line  41   r  and the start point portion  46   as  is linked (e.g., proportional) to the first inter-ruled line distance L 12 . The distance along the second direction D 2  between the second ruled line  42   r  and the end point portion  46   ae  is linked (e.g., proportional) to the first inter-ruled line distance L 12 . 
     The first processing operation and the second processing operation recited above may be implemented simultaneously. 
     Such a first processing operation and second processing operation are possible by the processing of the multiple stroke data  80  by the processing unit  20  being processed by, for example, the data corresponding to cell shapes or arrows and the data corresponding to ruled lines being processed separately. An example of the processing of the multiple stroke data  80  implemented by the processing unit  20  will now be described. 
       FIG. 5  is a schematic view showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
     As shown in  FIG. 5 , for example, shape recognition is performed for the stroke groups (the multiple stroke data  80 ) to be recognized (step S 110 ). For example, the basic shapes (the circles, the flattened circles, the quadrilaterals, the arrows, etc.) are recognized by the shape recognition. 
     In the shape recognition, the strokes that are recognized as a basic shape of a designated category are established to be the basic shape of the designated category. 
     Table recognition is performed for the stroke groups of the multiple stroke data  80  other than the basic shapes of the designated categories (step S 120 ). The table ruled lines and the table structures (the number of rows, the number of columns, the cell regions, etc.) of the table data  40  are recognized by the table recognition. 
     At this time, there is a possibility that, for example, an error may occur in the recognition of the table ruled lines. To handle this, for example, the table recognition is performed without the stroke groups recognized as arrows in the shape recognition. 
     For example, the stroke groups recognized as table ruled lines are established to be table ruled lines. At this time, even when a stroke group is recognized as table ruled lines and recognized as a basic shape, the stroke group may be established to be table ruled lines. Thereby, for example, table ruled lines that are recognized as quadrilaterals in the shape recognition are corrected to be table ruled lines. 
     For example, in the case where the stroke group is recognized as a basic shape and the entire stroke group is not table ruled lines, the stroke group is established to be a basic shape of the category. In other words, in the case where a portion of the stroke group is recognized as a table ruled line, the remainder of the stroke group is not set to be a basic shape. 
     The stroke groups that are not established in the processing recited above are established to be “other strokes.” For example, linearization processing may be implemented for the “other strokes.” The “other strokes” may be recognized as, for example, characters. After such processing is implemented, the shape recognition may be performed again for the “other strokes.” 
     Thereby, the multiple stroke data  80  are classified into, for example, “basic shapes,” “table ruled lines,” and “other strokes.” 
     As a result of the classification, for example, the first ruled line data  41   rd , the second ruled line data  42   rd , the third ruled line data  43   rd , the first cell data  45   ad , the second cell data  45   bd , the first arrow data  46   ad , the second arrow data  46   bd , etc., of the table data  40  are derived. 
     Thus, the first processing operation recited above includes the shape recognition processing (e.g., step S 110 ) of dividing the multiple sets of stroke data  80  into the first cell data  45   ad  and the non-cell data that is different from the first cell data  45   ad . The first processing operation further includes the ruled line derivation processing (e.g., step S 120 ) of deriving the first ruled line data  41   rd  and the second ruled line data  42   rd  from the non-cell data. 
     On the other hand, the second processing operation includes the arrow recognition processing (step S 110 ) of dividing the multiple sets of stroke data  80  into the first arrow data  46   ad  and the non-arrow data that is different from the first arrow data  46   ad . The second processing operation further includes the ruled line derivation processing (e.g., step S 120 ) of deriving the first ruled line data  41   rd  and the second ruled line data  42   rd  from the non-arrow data. 
     Such processing can convert a handwritten table into easily-usable table data. 
       FIG. 6  is a flowchart showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
       FIG. 6  shows the operation of the processing unit  20 . 
     In the shape recognition (step S 210 ) as shown in  FIG. 6 , the shapes of the categories belonging to a first shape category group are recognized from the stroke data  80 . Then, for example, a shape attribute that indicates being a shape of the first shape category is added to the stroke data included in the shapes. The correspondence between each of the shapes and the stroke data included in each of the shapes is output. 
     The table recognition (step S 220 ) is performed for, for example, designated stroke data. The designated stroke data is, for example, the stroke data  80  other than the stroke data to which the shape attribute of a category belonging to a second shape category group is added. The second shape category group is a partial set of the first shape category group. The second shape category group is, for example, “arrow.” The table ruled lines and the cell regions of the table are recognized for the designated stroke data. The correspondence between the table ruled lines and the stroke data included in the table ruled lines is output. 
     In the shape redetermination (step S 320 ) for each of the shapes, a shape is rejected if, for example, the attribute of table ruled lines is added to some of the stroke data included in the shape. Then, for example, the shape attribute added to the other stroke data included in the shape is removed. 
     By such processing, the shapes (the cell data, the arrows, etc.) and the ruled lines are separated and recognized. The stroke data to which the table ruled line attribute is added, the stroke data to which the shape attributes are added, and the other stroke data are outputtable. 
       FIG. 7  is a flowchart showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
       FIG. 7  shows the operation of the processing unit  20 . The processing unit  20  implements an operation of, for example, describing the shape data as relative positions inside the table. 
     In the shape/table recognition (step S 310 ), for example, the table and the shapes of the categories belonging to the first shape category group are recognized from the stroke data  80 . The information of the shape category of each shape, the correspondence between each shape and the stroke data included in each shape, and the cell regions of the table are output. 
     In the calculation of the shape position information (step S 320 ), for example, in the case where the shape category is a circle or a polygon, the positions of the corners of the circumscribing rectangle of the strokes included in the shape are calculated as the relative position in the cell region. The positions of the corners are used as the shape position information. The shape position information is outputtable. 
       FIG. 8  is a flowchart showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
       FIG. 8  shows the operation of suppressing the detection of the table ruled lines. 
     In the extraction of the ruled line candidates (step S 410 ), multiple ruled line candidates are extracted from the stroke data  80 . For example, the ruled line candidates are extracted based on the size and distribution (e.g., the entropy), etc., of the projection component of the stroke data when projected onto any axis (e.g., two orthogonal axes, etc.). 
     In the recognition of the pass-through ranges (step S 420 ), for example, the table is made using the ruled line candidates; and the ranges through which the ruled line candidates pass are recognized. 
     In the recognition of the table ruled lines (step S 430 ), for example, the table ruled lines and the cell regions of the table are recognized based on the pass-through ranges of the ruled line candidates. 
     Based on the processing recited above, the information of the cell regions and the correspondence between the table ruled lines and the stroke data included in the table ruled lines are outputtable. 
     According to the processing unit  20  according to the embodiment, for example, based on the pass-through range of each of the ruled line candidates that are extracted, the ruled line candidates that are inappropriate as the table are not processed as table ruled lines. 
     For example, in a reference example, there is a method for determining lines having lengths not less than a threshold to be ruled lines. In such a case, portions (e.g., arrows, etc.) other than the table also may be recognized as table ruled lines. 
     Conversely, according to the embodiment, the ruled lines and the arrows are recognized separately. Thereby, the handwritten document can be processed more appropriately. 
     For example, the table ruled line candidates are extracted; and the table is made. Then, the ranges through which the ruled line candidates pass are recognized. At this time, for example, in the case where there are no vertical ruled lines passing from the cell of the upper end of the table to the cell of the lower end of the table and there are no horizontal ruled lines passing from the cell of the left end of the table to the cell of the right end of the table, the ruled line candidates that are extracted are not set to be table ruled lines. For example, in the case where one of the ruled line candidates has a pass-through range of one cell and the length of the ruled line candidate is not more than a prescribed proportion of the cell, the ruled line candidate is not set to be a table ruled line. 
     By such processing, the overdetection of table ruled lines in the table recognition can be suppressed. 
     In the embodiment, a straight-line approximation of the “other strokes” may be implemented. Further, shape recognition of the “other strokes” may be implemented. 
     Based on the table data, at least one selected from a portion of the rows and a portion of the columns can be enlarged when generating the table. At this time, the relative positions inside the cells of the shapes inside the table are maintained. In the embodiment, it is possible to make the sizes of the multiple cells of the table uniform. The colors may be different between the table ruled lines and the shapes (at least one selected from the cell shapes and the arrow). 
     In the table ruled line recognition, the ruled line candidates that do not pass through cells are not set to be table ruled lines. In the table ruled line recognition, a horizontal-direction ruled line candidate that passes through only one cell and has a length that is not more than a prescribed proportion of the horizontal width of the cell is not set to be a table ruled line. In the table ruled line recognition, a vertical-direction ruled line candidate that passes through only one cell and has a length that is not more than a prescribed proportion of the vertical width of the cell is not set to be a table ruled line. 
     In the case where the number of rows is not more than a predetermined number when the table is made, the ruled line candidates may be rejected. In the case where the number of columns is not more than a predetermined number when the table is made, the ruled line candidates may be rejected. 
     For example, a ruled line candidate that has an end point separated from the edge of the cell and positioned at the cell center vicinity, the ruled line candidate may be determined not to be a table ruled line. Based on the pass-through ranges of the ruled line candidates, cell regions may be recognized as merged cells for portions that are not passed through. 
       FIG. 9  is a schematic view showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
       FIG. 9  shows the multiple stroke data  80 . In the example, the stroke data  80  is ruled line candidates. 
     As shown in  FIG. 9 , for example, the stroke data  80  of the multiple stroke data  80  that has a length not less than a prescribed threshold is set to be a ruled line candidate  88 . The stroke data  80  of the multiple stroke data  80  that has an aspect ratio not less than a prescribed threshold is set to be the ruled line candidate  88 . The aspect ratio is, for example, the ratio of the vertical length to the horizontal length of the circumscribing rectangle of the stroke data  80 . The aspect ratio may be, for example, the ratio of the horizontal length to the vertical length of the circumscribing rectangle of the stroke data  80 . 
     For example, there are cases where the end point of one of the stroke data is disposed proximally to the start point of one other of the stroke data, and the extension directions of the stroke data are the same. In such a case, the stroke data may be integrated as one ruled line candidate  88 . 
     There are cases where one of the stroke data extends continuously from one direction into another direction. In such a case, the portion extending in the one direction may be set to be one ruled line candidate  88 ; and the portion extending in the one other direction may be set to be one other ruled line candidate  88 . 
       FIG. 10A  and  FIG. 10B  are schematic views showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
     As shown in  FIG. 10A , the ruled line candidates  88  are extracted in the derivation of the table data  40 . In such a case, as in the example, a portion of the ruled lines may be omitted. 
     In such a case, as shown in  FIG. 10B , ruled lines  88   a  may be added. For example, the pass-through ranges of the ruled line candidates  88  can be recognized; and the ruled lines  88   a  can be added based on the result. 
       FIG. 11  is a schematic view showing an operation of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. As shown in  FIG. 11 , the ruled line candidates  88  include horizontal ruled lines H 1  to H 4 . In such a case, the ends of a ruled line candidate  88   b  are connected to none of the horizontal ruled lines H 1  to H 4 . In the example, one end P 1  of the ruled line candidate  88   b  is proximal to the horizontal ruled line H 2  but does not contact the horizontal ruled line H 2 . The other end P 2  of the ruled line candidate  88   b  is proximal to the horizontal ruled line H 4  but does not contact the horizontal ruled line H 4 . 
     For example, in the case where the distance between the end P 1  and the horizontal ruled line H 2  is not more than a prescribed threshold, the ruled line candidate  88   b  may be modified to cause the position of the end P 1  to contact the horizontal ruled line H 2 . In the case where the distance between the end P 2  and the horizontal ruled line H 4  is not more than the prescribed threshold, the ruled line candidate  88   b  may be modified to cause the position of the end P 2  to contact the horizontal ruled line H 4 . 
     The threshold is, for example, predetermined. For example, the threshold may be determined to be proportional to the average cell size. The threshold may be determined based on, for example, the size of the circumscribing rectangle of the ruled line candidate  88   b.  The threshold may be determined based on the size of the cells in which the ends of the ruled line candidate  88   b  are positioned. 
     For example, when the distance between the end P 1  and the horizontal ruled line H 2  is less than the threshold, the ruled line candidate  88   b  is determined not to be a ruled line. For example, when the distance between the end P 2  and the horizontal ruled line H 4  is less than the threshold, the ruled line candidate  88   b  is determined not to be a ruled line. 
     By such processing, the precision of the discrimination between the shapes and the ruled lines of the table increases. 
     In the example of the processing shown in  FIG. 5 , table recognition processing is implemented for the strokes corresponding to the basic shapes of the designated categories. The embodiment is not limited thereto. For example, for all of the multiple strokes, first, the table recognition processing may be implemented; and then, other processing to set the strokes corresponding to the basic shapes of the designated categories not to be the ruled line candidates may be performed in the ruled line extraction of the table recognition processing. For example, there are cases where a handwritten ruled line exists that cannot be an outer edge of the frame; and at least a portion of the strokes corresponding to an “arrow” exists in a region outside the ruled line. In such a case, because the strokes that correspond to the arrow exist, the region where the arrow exists can be recognized as a “cell” of the table by performing the other processing recited above. 
       FIG. 12  is a schematic view showing data used in the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
       FIG. 12  shows an example of the data structure of the multiple sets of stroke data  80 . The stroke data  80  is, for example, handwritten data. 
     For example, an ink data structure  410  includes a total stroke count  411  and multiple stroke structures (a stroke structure  412 , a stroke structure  413 , etc.). 
     “Stroke” corresponds to a stroke that is input by handwriting. The stroke corresponds to, for example, the path of a pen or the like from where the pen or the like contacts the input plane to where the pen or the like leaves the input plane. For example, points on the path are sampled at a prescribed timing (e.g., a constant period). The stroke is expressed by, for example, the time series of the points that are sampled. 
     A stroke structure  420  of one stroke is, for example, one selected from the stroke structure  412 , the stroke structure  413 , etc. The stroke structure  420  is expressed by, for example, the set (the point structures) of the values of the coordinates on the plane where the pen has moved. 
     For example, the stroke structure  420  includes a total point count  421 , a start time  422 , a circumscribing shape  423 , and point structures (a point structure  424 , a point structure  425 , etc.). The total point count  421  is the number of points that form the stroke. The number of point structures is the total point count  421 . 
     The start time  422  is, for example, the time at which the stroke is drawn by the pen contacting the input plane. The circumscribing shape  423  is the circumscribing shape of the path of the stroke on the document plane. It is favorable for the circumscribing shape  423  to be, for example, a rectangle of the minimum surface area that contains the stroke on the document plane. 
     The point structures (the point structure  424 , the point structure  425 , etc.) depend on, for example, the input device. A point structure  430  which is one point structure includes, for example, an x-coordinate  431 , a y-coordinate  432 , writing pressure  433 , and a time difference  434 . The x-coordinate  431  is the coordinate in the x-direction of the sampled point. The y-coordinate  432  is the coordinate in the y-direction of the sampled point. The writing pressure  433  is the writing pressure of the sampled point. The time difference  434  is, for example, the time difference between the initial time (e.g., the start time  422  recited above) and the time of the sampling of the point. The point structure  430  includes four such values. 
     For example, the coordinates are a coordinate system in the document plane. For example, the upper left corner of the document plane is used as the origin of the coordinates. For example, the values of the coordinates increase from the origin toward the lower right corner. The coordinates may be expressed by such positive values. 
     For example, there are cases where the input device does not acquire the writing pressure, or the data of the writing pressure is not used in subsequent processing even when acquired. In such a case, the writing pressure  433  is omissible. Or, data that indicates that the writing pressure  433  is invalid may be added to the writing pressure  433 . 
     In the stroke structure  420 , the actual data of the x-coordinate  431 , the y-coordinate  432 , etc., may be written to the region of each of the point structures  430 . Or, in the stroke structure  420 , link information to the corresponding point structure  430  may be written to the region of each of the point structures  430 . For example, this is applicable in the case where the data of the stroke structure  420  and the data of the point structure  430  are managed separately. 
     The handwritten document processing device  110  according to the embodiment is, for example, a stand-alone device. For example, the configuration of the handwritten document processing device  110  may be dispersed over multiple nodes. The multiple nodes can communicate with each other via, for example, a network. 
     The handwritten document processing device  110  includes, for example, a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a portable computer, etc. The handwritten document processing device  110  includes a portable information device, an information device including a touch panel, a smartphone, etc. The document processing device  110  includes various information processing devices. The handwritten document processing device  110  includes various devices. 
       FIG. 13  is a schematic view showing the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
       FIG. 13  is a block diagram of the handwritten document processing device  110 .  FIG. 13  shows an example of hardware of the handwritten document processing device  110 . 
     The handwritten document processing device  110  includes, for example, a CPU  201 , an input device  202 , an output device  203 , a RAM  204 , a ROM  205 , an external memory interface  206 , and a communication interface  207 . For example, at least one selected from the input device  202 , the output device  203 , the external memory interface  206 , and the communication interface  207  is used as the input/output unit  10 . For example, the CPU  201  is used as the processing unit  20 . 
     In the case where a touch panel is used as the handwritten document processing device  110 , for example, a liquid crystal panel, a pen, a stroke sensor provided on the liquid crystal panel, etc., are utilized. 
     For example, a portion of the handwritten document processing device  110  may be provided in a client; and another portion of the handwritten document processing device  110  may be provided in a server. 
       FIG. 14  is a schematic view showing the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
     As shown in  FIG. 14 , a server  303  is provided on a network  300 . The network  300  includes, for example, at least one selected from an intranet and the Internet. A client  301  and a client  302  can communicate with the server  303  via the network  300 . The handwritten document processing device  110  according to the embodiment may be formed of such a client and server. 
     For example, the client  301  is connected to the network  300  via wireless communication. The client  302  is connected to the network  300  via wired communication. 
     The client  301  and the client  302  are, for example, user devices. The server  303  is provided, for example, on a LAN. For example, an intra-corporate LAN, etc., is used as the LAN. The server  303  may be managed by, for example, an internet service provider, etc. The server  303  may be a user device. The user may provide the functions of the server to other users. Various modifications of the configuration of the handwritten document processing device  110  being dispersed in clients and servers are possible. 
       FIG. 15  is a flowchart showing the operations of the handwritten document processing device according to the first embodiment. 
     In the handwritten document processing device  110  as shown in  FIG. 15 , for example, the multiple sets of stroke data  80  of a handwritten document are acquired (step S 150 ). The operation is implemented by, for example, the input/output unit  10 . 
     Then, processing (e.g., the first processing operation) is implemented (step S 160 ). The processing is implemented by, for example, the processing unit  20 . The first processing operation derives the table data  40  based on the multiple sets of stroke data  80  acquired by the input/output unit  10 , where the table data  40  includes the first ruled line data  41   rd , the second ruled line data  42   rd , and the first cell data  45   ad  including the predetermined shape pattern. The table data  40  is supplied to the input/output unit  10 . 
     In the embodiment, the length in the second direction D 2  of the cell shape (the first cell shape  45   a ) generated based on the first cell data  45   ad  to correspond to the shape pattern and the inter-ruled line distance (the first inter-ruled line distance L 12 ) along the second direction D 2  intersecting the first direction D 1  between the first ruled line  41   r  generated based on the first ruled line data  41   rd  to extend in the first direction D 1  and the second ruled line  42   r  generated based on the second ruled line data  42   rd  to extend in the first direction D 1  are independently modifiable. 
     The second processing operation recited above may be implemented in step S 160 . 
     Second Embodiment 
     The embodiment relates to a handwritten document processing program. The processing described in the first embodiment is implementable based on a program which is software. 
     The program implements at least a portion of the processing described in the first embodiment. 
     For example, the handwritten document processing program causes a computer to acquire the multiple sets of stroke data  80  of the handwritten document. The program causes the computer to implement the first processing operation. The first processing operation derives the table data  40  based on the multiple sets of stroke data  80  that is acquired, where the table data  40  includes the first ruled line data  41   rd , the second ruled line data  42   rd , and the first cell data  45   ad  including the predetermined shape pattern. The table data  40  is supplied to the input/output unit  10 . 
     In the embodiment, the length in the second direction D 2  of the cell shape (the first cell shape  45   a ) generated based on the first cell data  45   ad  to correspond to the shape pattern and the inter-ruled line distance (the first inter-ruled line distance L 12 ) along the second direction D 2  intersecting the first direction D 1  between the first ruled line  41   r  generated based on the first ruled line data  41   rd  to extend in the first direction D 1  and the second ruled line  42   r  generated based on the second ruled line data  42   rd  to extend in the first direction D 1  are independently modifiable. 
     Further, the handwritten document processing program may cause the computer to implement the second processing operation recited above. 
     The handwritten document processing program according to the embodiment is storable in, for example, a versatile computer system. Effects similar to the effects obtained by the handwritten document processing device  110  according to the embodiment can be obtained by reading the program. 
     The instructions described in the embodiment are recordable in a recording medium as a program that can be executed by the computer. For example, a magnetic disk (a flexible disk, a hard disk, etc.), an optical disk (CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD±R, DVD±RW, etc.), a semiconductor memory, etc., may be used as the recording medium. 
     The recording medium is readable by a computer or an embedded system. The format of the recording (the storage) of the recording medium is arbitrary. 
     The computer reads the program from the recording medium and causes the CPU to execute the instructions described in the program based on the program. The operations of the handwritten document processing device  110  according to the embodiment can be implemented. The computer may acquire or read the program via a network when acquiring or reading the program. 
     The program is installed from the recording medium into, for example, the computer and/or the embedded system. Based on the instructions of the program, the OS (operating system) operating on the computer, database management software, MW (middleware) of the network, etc., may execute a portion of the processing included in the embodiment. 
     The recording medium according to the embodiment is, for example, independent of the computer or the embedded system. The embodiment is not limited thereto; and the recording medium according to the embodiment also includes, for example, a recording medium that stores or temporarily stores a downloaded program. The download of the program is performed via, for example, a LAN, the Internet, etc. 
     There may be one or multiple recording media in the embodiment. The processing according to the embodiment may be executed based on the multiple recording media. The configurations of the media included in the recording media according to the embodiment are arbitrary. 
     The computer or embedded system according to the embodiment executes the processing of the embodiment based on the program stored in the recording medium. The computer or embedded system according to the embodiment may include, for example, one device such as a personal computer, a microcomputer, etc. The computer or embedded system according to the embodiment may include, for example, a system in which multiple devices are connected in a network, etc. 
     The computer according to the embodiment also may include a personal computer, a processor included in an information processing device, a microcomputer, etc. The computer according to the embodiment includes devices that can realize the functions according to the embodiment by a program. 
     Third Embodiment 
     The embodiment relates to a handwritten document processing method. In the method, for example, the processing described in regard to  FIG. 15  is performed. In the handwritten document processing method, the handwritten document processing device  110  described in the first embodiment and modifications of the handwritten document processing device  110  can be used. 
     According to the embodiments, a handwritten document processing device, a handwritten document processing method, and a handwritten document processing program that convert a handwritten table into easily-usable table data can be provided. 
     In the specification of the application, “orthogonal,” “perpendicular,” or “parallel” include fluctuation, etc., and include the state of being substantially perpendicular or substantially parallel. 
     Hereinabove, embodiments of the invention are described with reference to specific examples. However, the invention is not limited to these specific examples. For example, one skilled in the art may similarly practice the invention by appropriately selecting specific configurations of components included in the handwritten document processing device such as the input/output unit, the processing unit, etc., from known art; and such practice is within the scope of the invention to the extent that similar effects can be obtained. 
     Further, any two or more components of the specific examples may be combined within the extent of technical feasibility and are included in the scope of the invention to the extent that the purport of the invention is included. 
     Moreover, all handwritten document processing devices, handwritten document processing methods, and handwritten document processing programs practicable by an appropriate design modification by one skilled in the art based on the handwritten document processing devices, handwritten document processing methods, and handwritten document processing programs described above as embodiments of the invention also are within the scope of the invention to the extent that the spirit of the invention is included. 
     Various other variations and modifications can be conceived by those skilled in the art within the spirit of the invention, and it is understood that such variations and modifications are also encompassed within the scope of the invention. 
     While certain embodiments have been described, these embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not intended to limit the scope of the inventions. Indeed, the novel embodiments described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form of the embodiments described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the inventions. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the invention.