Abstract: This invention relates to a system for monitoring a process which includes a plurality of monitoring means such as video camera which collects data relative to the process. The collected data is converted into a digital format and the digitized data stored in digital data storage device such that as new data is stored earlier stored data is removed to maintain about the same volume of stored data. The system also includes a control such as a computer which communicates with the digital data storage device. In the event of a deviation from a process parameter, the control is adapted to extract and display the digitized data corresponding to the deviation.

Abstract: A system for continuously monitoring a process such as a paper making process wherein a plurality of video cameras are positioned at various positions along the process to monitor one or more pre-determined characteristics of the process. The system further includes device for converting the monitored characteristics into digital format and a digital data storage device, such as a circular memory, for storage of such data such that as new data is stored earlier stored data is removed. The system includes a control device such as a computer which is capable of communicating with the data storage device and with a detector for detecting deviations from the monitored predetermined characteristic such that on receipt of a deviation signal the control device extracts from the digital data storage device digitized data corresponding to the deviation and displays such extracted deviation digitized data as for example on a video monitor.

Abstract: The invention is a system for monitoring a process in which process data relating to a predetermined characteristic of the process is collected and stored in digital format and extracted based upon a predetermined criterion for display. A plurality of monitors are strategically positioned at various locations of interest to observe the predetermined characteristic. Data obtained by the monitors are converted into digital format and stored. A central control is provided for retrieving the digital data in accordance with a predetermined criterion and transmitting the retrieved data to a display unit. The predetermined criterion for display may be specified as a deviation from the predetermined characteristic, and a plurality of deviation detectors may be coupled to the system for obtaining and relaying information relating to such deviations. Upon deviation, the central control may be adapted to retrieve digital data based on time and location of the deviation.