A knowledge-based approach to the layout analysis

In this paper, we present a hybrid approach to the problem of the document analysis in which the document image is segmented by means of a top-down technique and then basic blocks are grouped bottom-up in order to form complex layout components. In this latter process, called layout analysis, only generic knowledge on typesetting conventions is exploited. Such knowledge is independent of the particular class of processed documents and turns out to be valuable for a wide range of documents. Preliminary results of the layout analysis system LEX (Layout EXpert) show the methodological validity of this approach.