Abstract: In a continuous sheetmaking process, a synthetic measurement is constructed having a higher signal-to-noise ratio than that of each original measurement in situations where more than one (redundant) measurements are available. The input-output dynamic characteristics of each measurement are assumed to be identical except for a gain factor. Using the synthetic measurement, system parameters can be identified in less time with fewer input disturbances. The invention is especially advantageous for application to processes that are expensive to disturb and in which the noise amplitude is high compared to the permissible amplitude of the put disturbance. The signal-to-noise enhanced time-series response measurement may be produced by selecting a time series response measurement that exhibits a greatest magnitude. Alternatively, it may be produced by averaging in the cross-direction a plurality of time series response measurements.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling a multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) system, such as a sheetmaking system, including identifying a decoupling gain matrix by comparing an actuator control vector against a measured output vector and processing an error vector to update the decoupling gain matrix. The dynamic components of one dynamic mode in the system are separated from that of other dynamic modes such that the input-output characteristic of the process may be treated as independent channels.

Abstract: A system for aligning control zones with measurement zones in a sheetmaking system having a plurality of actuators arranged in the cross-direction, comprising the steps of: a) bumping at least one of the actuators; b) measuring a profile of the sheet at a substantial distance from the bumped actuators; and c) determining a location of the effect of each of the bumped actuators on the sheet.