Abstract: A method and apparatus for predicting a signal value for a target element within a multi-element system is disclosed. The method includes modeling the multi-element system by defining fundamental physical relationships between the target element and other elements within the system. The resultant system model is in the form of a set of coupled non-linear differential equations. These differential equations are then approximated into linearized models about an operating point or series of operating points corresponding to the system behavior. The linearized differential equations are then subjected to a coupling analysis. The coupling analysis is employed to determine dynamic coupling between instruments. The coupling analysis assesses the degree of observability of the system and associated elements. The coupling analysis may be based upon observability tests, gramian analyses, or modal analyses. Based upon the coupling analysis, coupled elements are selected.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for recognizing written items including characters and symbols is disclosed. A scanner is utilized for scanning the characters and symbols. A recognition module is used to confidently identify the scanned characters and symbols. The recognition module includes a mechanism for recognizing characters. This mechanism includes a character recognition rule base which yields identified characters and unidentified characters. The unidentified characters are conveyed to neural networks for recognition. The recognition module also includes a mechanism for recognizing symbols. This mechanism includes a symbol recognition rule base which yields identified symbols and unidentified symbols. The unidentified symbols are conveyed to neural networks for recognition. The recognition module also includes a mechanism for context processing of the characters and symbols. The context processor utilizes a multilevel blackboard with a number of ascending levels.

Abstract: A method is described for the safe operation of a complex system such as a nuclear reactor using a digital computer. The computer is supplied with a data base containing a list of the safe state of the reactor and a list of operating instructions for achieving a safe state when the actual state of the reactor does not correspond to a listed safe state, the computer selects operating instructions to return the reactor to a safe state.