Free Java OMR API to Extract Data Scanned Images & Files
Open Source Java Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) Library that can Recognize & Extract Information from Filled-in Bubbles, Checkboxes, & Other Marked Areas on Scanned Forms & Documents.
What is FormReturn?
In the world of data processing, where speed and precision are key, the FormReturn Java OMR Library stands out as a reliable open-source solution for Java Optical Mark Recognition. Created by Richard Quast, this robust library empowers developers to extract documents text in Java, recognize text from scanned images, and efficiently process paper-based forms such as surveys, tests, and feedback sheets. Its advanced algorithms ensure accurate OMR detection, making it ideal for building automated data collection apps in education, research, and enterprise settings.
FormReturn offers a fully customizable, free OMR library for those seeking flexibility in their Java OMR software development projects. Developers can modify the codebase to meet specific needs while benefiting from seamless integration with existing Java applications. The library proves especially useful for automating exam grading, processing administrative forms, and conducting market research. As demand rises to develop OMR apps with smart form recognition, FormReturn’s open-source OMR SDK for Java offers a scalable and accurate solution for any developer looking to build intelligent form-processing tools.
Getting Started with OMR
The recommend way to install FormReturn is using Maven. To install the FormReturn Java OMR Library via Maven, you can add the library as a dependency in your project's pom.xml file.
//Define Aspose.PDF for Java API Dependency
<dependencies>
<dependency>
<groupId>com.richardquast</groupId>
<artifactId>formreturn</artifactId>
<version>1.6.1</version>
</dependency>
</dependencies>
Install FormReturn via GitHub
git clone https://github.com/rquast/formreturn.git
Extract Data from Hand-Written Forms via Java
The open source FormReturn library has provided complete support for loading and extracting data from a hand-written form inside Java applications. The heart of the library lies in its precise OMR capabilities. The library accurately captures and interprets data from marked areas on paper forms, ensuring minimal errors in the extraction process. The library carefully review the extracted data to ensure accuracy. To perform the operation, first you need to create a paper form with specific areas designated for hand-written responses. After that, use a scanner to create a digital image of the hand-written form. Please makes sure that the scanned image is of sufficient quality and resolution to capture the details of the hand-written responses accurately. In the last process the scanned image and extract data from it. The library allows to store the data in a database, generate reports, or integrate it with other systems. The following example shows, how to achieve data extraction from a hand written form inside Java applications.
How to Extract Data from Hand-Written Forms via Java API?
import com.formreturn.api.FormReturnAPI;
public class FormReturnExample {
public static void main(String[] args) {
// Specify the path to the scanned form image
String imagePath = "path/to/scanned/form/image.jpg";
// Initialize the FormReturn API
FormReturnAPI formReturnAPI = new FormReturnAPI();
// Load the form template (created during form design)
formReturnAPI.loadTemplate("path/to/form/template.xml");
// Process the scanned image and extract data
String data = formReturnAPI.processForm(imagePath);
// Display or further process the extracted data
System.out.println("Extracted Data:\n" + data);
}
}
Flexibility, Scalability and Customization
The open source FormReturn software offers a high degree of flexibility, allowing users to design and customize forms according to their specific needs. From surveys and questionnaires to exams and assessments, the library caters to a wide range of applications. Whether dealing with a handful of forms or a massive volume, the library is designed to scale. This scalability is instrumental for organizations experiencing variable workloads or planning to expand their data collection initiatives.
Efficiency & Multi-Platform Support
The FormReturn library incorporates advanced image processing and recognition algorithms to achieve high accuracy in data extraction. This is particularly important for applications where precision is paramount, such as academic assessments or sensitive surveys. It is built in Java, making it inherently cross-platform. Whether you are developing applications on Windows, macOS, or Linux, FormReturn ensures seamless integration and consistent performance across different operating systems.