Mobile Check Deposit OCR Verification Before Image Upload
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional remote check deposit processes face challenges in capturing clear and precise images of checks, particularly on resource-constrained devices, leading to user frustration and inefficiencies in optical character recognition (OCR) processing.
Innovation Solution
A mobile device-based system performs local image verification and OCR on check images, including manual image capture and dual OCR processes for different fonts, with feedback and remediation options, before sending validated OCR data to a financial institution server for final processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If OCR is performed on resource-constrained mobile devices, then user privacy is enhanced and network bandwidth is reduced, but processing speed and accuracy deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the OCR processing into two distinct phases: a first OCR process handles standard font regions of the check, while a second specialized OCR process handles MICR line regions. This segmentation allows each process to be optimized for its specific task, improving overall accuracy on resource-constrained devices without requiring a single complex OCR system
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary verification step where extracted check data is validated against expected formats and patterns before final processing. This intermediary layer filters out obvious errors early, reducing the need for repeated processing and improving effective throughput on mobile devices
2Measurement precision
If manual image capture and verification are implemented, then image quality and OCR accuracy improve, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the system analyzes captured check images and provides guidance to users about image quality issues. The system evaluates whether the captured image meets minimum quality thresholds and communicates specific improvements needed, enabling users to capture better images without requiring expert knowledge
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary verification of check images before proceeding with OCR processing. The system pre-validates image quality, orientation, and completeness, providing early feedback to users about whether the captured image is suitable for processing, thereby preventing wasted time on poor-quality captures
3Measurement precision
If dual OCR processes are used for different fonts, then check data extraction accuracy improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using different OCR processing approaches for different regions of the check. Standard font regions undergo one type of OCR processing while MICR line regions undergo specialized processing. This localized approach optimizes accuracy for each region's specific characteristics without requiring the entire system to be maximally complex
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes processing parameters based on the region being analyzed. Different font types, resolution requirements, and recognition algorithms are applied depending on whether the system is processing the body text or the MICR line. This parameter adaptation improves accuracy while keeping the base system relatively simple
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for remote check deposit are disclosed. A check for deposit is processed without the need for a server to receive any image of the check initially. Instead, optical character recognition (OCR) data is received at the server from a mobile device. Verification processing for the check is then performed using the OCR data. If the verification process is successful, a confirmation notification is sent to the mobile device. Subsequently, after sending the confirmation notification, a check image is received, from which the OCR data was determined. The check is, in turn, processed for deposit using the received check image.