Automatic Control Patents (Class 162/252)
  • Patent number: 7695591
    Abstract: A washing arrangement for washing and dewatering of cellulose pulp is disclosed, comprising a rotatable drum having a plurality of outer compartments defined by axial compartment walls distributed along the circumference of the drum, a stationary cylindrical casing that encloses the drum, whereby an annular space is defined between the casing and the drum and longitudinal seals extending in the axial direction of the drum divide the annular space into zones for forming, washing and discharge of the pulp. The function of the longitudinal seals is optimized by units for seal adjustment having force sensors for measuring a force acting on one of the longitudinal seals in the direction from the drum, and positioners for automatically moving the longitudinal seal substantially in the radial direction of the drum according to a predetermined pattern based on the measured force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventors: Jörgen T. Lundberg, Stefan Mattsson, Johan Bylander, Magnus Henriksson
  • Publication number: 20100078140
    Abstract: An air stabilization system employing two parallel, opposite-facing Coanda nozzles, with each nozzle exhausting gas at opposite directions, subjects a moving flexible web to opposing forces effective to create local tension within the web. Each nozzle includes an elongated slot that is perpendicular to the path of the moving web. The nozzles serve as separate points along the machine direction for controlling the height of the web. The operative surface with the nozzles can exhibit a flush surface. The nozzles can be formed on elevated structures on the operative surface. The operative surface can be covered with a transparent substrate to minimize shape distortions on the moving web and to prevent debris from collecting around the sensor. An internal baffle is employed to channel air flow within each nozzle. The baffle equalizes the gas pressure across the nozzle and directs air flow towards it.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Publication date: April 1, 2010
    Applicant: Honeywell ASCa Inc
    Inventor: Michael Kon Yew Hughes
  • Patent number: 7678233
    Abstract: Disclosed is a machine direction measurement system having an increased cross direction sampling area (significantly larger than the natural sensor measurement window) to generate a more representative and stable machine direction reading of the process. In effect, the sensor should have as wide a coverage area as possible without having to resort to the expense of measuring the entire width of the sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Assignee: Honeywell ASCA, Inc.
    Inventor: Ron E. Beselt
  • Publication number: 20100024996
    Abstract: A washer for washing and dewatering cellulose pulp is disclosed including a rotatable drum with a plurality of axial compartment walls defining a plurality of outer compartments, a stationary cylindrical casing enclosing the drum, and at least one axially disposed seal dividing the annular space between the stationary casing and the drum into a number of zones for treating the pulp. The function of the seals is optimized by units for seal adjustment which include a load cell for registering a pulse signal indicating the force acting on the seals, an extractor for deriving a pulse height parameter from the registered pulse signal and a motor for moving the seal radially with respect to the drum based on the pulse height parameter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: METSO PAPER, INC.
    Inventor: Jonas Orgård
  • Publication number: 20100012285
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a method for redirecting cut web products and/or rejecting cut web products. The method comprises advancing a plurality of cut web products along a first path and providing a redirecting or folding device for folding the plurality of cut web products and/or delivering the folded cut web products to a second path. Prior to reaching the folding device, the cut web products may be determined to be defective. The folding device can be accelerated, decelerated, or substantially stopped, such that a selected cut web product is not delivered to the second path, thereby rejecting the selected cut web product. The present disclosure additionally comprises an apparatus for redirecting and/or rejecting cut web products.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Inventor: Peter Wiedmann
  • Patent number: 7608169
    Abstract: A method includes determining one or more setpoint changes for one or more actuators in a process control system. Determining the one or more setpoint changes includes making larger or more frequent setpoint changes when operating in a first mode and making smaller or less frequent setpoint changes when operating in a second mode. The method also includes outputting the one or more setpoint changes to the one or more actuators. The method could further include entering the first mode after a paper sheet has broken and been rethreaded through a paper machine. The method could also include entering the second mode (i) after a specified amount of time has elapsed since entering the first mode or (ii) after the first mode has been entered and a caliper profile of the paper sheet is within a specified threshold of a desired caliper profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Assignee: Honeywell Asca Inc.
    Inventors: Johan U. Backstrom, Gregory E. Stewart
  • Publication number: 20090229777
    Abstract: A conservation control system is provided for integration with an cross-direction controller on a sheet making machine. The conservation control system receives inputs from the cross-direction controller and accepts and/or modifies the controller commands to a profiler based on desired performance and conservation trade-offs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: ABB LTD.
    Inventors: Peter Q. Tran, Kevin D. Starr, Timothy A. Mast, Timothy F. Murphy
  • Patent number: 7582189
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method in the manufacture of a fiber-based web-like product for optimizing the operation of the process being used, in which method quality factors are defined for the product being manufactured control variables, which affect the state of the process, or quality factors of the finished product, are defined for at least part of the process. In addition, an operating model is created, which is used to depict the effect of each control variable on the quality factors, and a user interface is created, through which varying values for the control variables can be input to the operating model and the values of the quality factors can be depicted simultaneously, in such a way that the values of the control variables and the values of the quality factors can be viewed simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventors: Pekka Pihola, Heikki Kettunen, Lari Lahdensuu
  • Patent number: 7531063
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for heating a roller used in the production and/or finishing of a web of material, particularly a paper web or paperboard web, are provided. According to the method, a roller is heated from the outside by a heated gas. The apparatus is configured to heat a roller used in the production and/or finishing of a web of material according to the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Voith Patent GmbH
    Inventor: Fabian Döling
  • Patent number: 7513975
    Abstract: A method and system for controlling one or more properties of a sheet of material to be manufactured on a sheet-making machine is disclosed. Actuators to control the sheet properties are arrayed in the cross-direction of the machine. Properties data about one or more properties of the sheet of material are measured and both the magnitude of an actuator control action and the cross-direction shape of an actuator control action are controlled to minimize the variation of the measured properties data from a desired target for each of the one or more properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Gary K. Burma
  • Publication number: 20090056895
    Abstract: A device for feeding cellulose-containing pulp from a dewatering unit, the dewatered pulp being discharged via an outlet included in the dewatering unit to a reception means positioned below the outlet, whereupon the pulp is transported to a stand pipe via an inlet included in the stand pipe, in which stand pipe the pulp falls freely under the influence of gravity, the reception means being positioned at a higher level than the inlet of the stand pipe. At least one feeding down surface is arranged which extends from the reception means to the inlet of the stand pipe, and the transport of the pulp between the reception means and the inlet of the stand pipe is effected by feeding the pulp downwards along this feeding down surface under the influence of gravity, the pulp being diluted during the feeding of the pulp downwards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2007
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Applicant: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Danielsson
  • Publication number: 20090025893
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for determining the total peroxide content of a cellulose pulp suspension in the pulp suspension bleaching stage, wherein the bleaching chemical is peroxide. A sample is taken from the pulp suspension, which sample is measured in a measuring device (25, 25?). Before measuring, the pH of the sample is adjusted and after that the total peroxide content or the perhydroxyl content of the sample is measured, of which measurement the total peroxide content of the sample is determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Applicant: Metso Automation Oy
    Inventors: Teuvo Peltomaki, Aleksi Pohjola, Pasi Antero Keinanen
  • Publication number: 20080264591
    Abstract: A paper machine includes equipment for processing or producing a product in a continuous manner, such as a paper sheet. A grade change occurs when the equipment transitions from producing or processing a product having a first grade to producing or processing a product having a second grade. To support the grade change, a target for at least one controlled variable and a target for at least one manipulated variable are identified. The at least one manipulated variable and the at least one controlled variable are associated with the production of the product. A trajectory for the at least one manipulated variable and a corresponding trajectory for the at least one controlled variable are identified using the targets. The grade change is implemented using the trajectories so as to transition from production of the product having the first grade to production of the product having the second grade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Applicant: Honeywell ASCa Inc.
    Inventors: Johan U. Backstrom, Mattias Bjorklund
  • Publication number: 20080245495
    Abstract: Apparatus for measuring tension or a tension alteration in a paper web. At least one measurement device includes a number of measurement bodies and a number of fluid supply devices, which are intended to apply a fluid pressure to the web. The fluid supply devices are so arranged as to subject the web to an essentially constant fluid pressure in order to provide a fluid cushion between the web and the measurement bodies. The measurement bodies are so arranged as to apply pressure to the web without making contact and are so arranged to be capable of displacement. The position of the measurement bodies in the normal direction of the web is altered depending upon variations in the constitution of the web. A method for measuring web tension and a machine including apparatus for measuring web tension are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 11, 2006
    Publication date: October 9, 2008
    Inventor: Hans Hogberg
  • Publication number: 20080155851
    Abstract: A vapor hood for a paper machine and/or paperboard machine, in particular for the drying section of a paper machine and/or paperboard machine, having a hood housing, wherein an inner housing surface of the hood housing delimits an internal space in which a process area, in particular the drying section, of the paper machine and/or paperboard machine is arranged or can be arranged, wherein on the inner housing surface in at least a sub-region there is arranged at least one condensation sensor for detecting a formation of condensate or an imminent formation of condensate in said sub-region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventors: Ralf Niebe, Jurgen Horter, Ronald Hepper
  • Patent number: 7390379
    Abstract: The lateral position of a web or fabric edge 11 in a paper machine is determined using an ultrasonic sensor. The ultrasonic sensor has a detector head 42, with an air channel system which opens to the vicinity of the head for forming an air knife which prevents accumulation of dirt on the head. The protective cover 35 has an air guide 43 extending further than the detector head 42, with air flowing thereabove from inside the protective cover 35 through an opening 36. The end component is on top of the protective cover allowing air to flow from the opening between the air guide and the end component to a detent, which turns the direction of the air flow. This provides efficient cleaning without disturbing, however, the operation of the ultrasonic sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventor: Sami Makkonen
  • Publication number: 20080078519
    Abstract: Methods are provided for determining the surface fatty acid content in a wood pulp or whitewater sample. The methods comprise reacting free fatty acids which are present on the surface of the wood pulp fibers in the sample or in the whitewater with one or more reagents to form a measurable species, and determining the fatty acid content from the quantitative measurement of the measurable species. The method is useful as a quick, portable, accurate and low cost assay for assessing the fatty acid content present at various sample points in pulp and paper mills. The method for determining the free fatty acid content can be conducted in a batch process (e.g. where samples are collected periodically and the test is conducted offline). Alternatively, the method for determining the free fatty acid content can be conducted in a continuous or semi-continuous process (e.g., online sampling/analysis).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Publication date: April 3, 2008
    Inventors: Chengliang Jiang, Xiang H. Wang, Jianhua Ma, Robin M. Yezzi
  • Publication number: 20070267163
    Abstract: A used paper recycling apparatus being installed in a room of a small shop or the like, friendly to the environment, low in running cost, and capable of maintaining a high confidentiality.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Publication date: November 22, 2007
    Applicant: SEED COMPANY LIMITED
    Inventors: Shigeru Tamai, Yuji Koyama
  • Patent number: 7279072
    Abstract: Adjusting the operation of a wire section, in which the development of the consistency of stock on the wire section (2) is determined and the effect of the consistency determined above on the formation and/or porosity of a paper web (3) is determined. The consistency developed on the wire section is adjusted based on a quality property of paper and/or by optimising a cost function, the quality property of paper comprising the formation and/or the porosity and/or a combination defined by means of the formation and/or the porosity and the cost function including the effect of at least the formation and/or the porosity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2007
    Assignee: Metso Automation Oy
    Inventors: Jukka Muhonen, Hannu Korhonen, Minna Partonen, Jussi Rajala, Antti Leinonen
  • Patent number: 7229526
    Abstract: A system for feeding fibres from a fibre separation step at a first pressure to a drying step at a second, lower pressure, the system comprising a sluice feeder (3) provided between the fibre separation step and the drying step. At least an outlet (14) of the sluice feeder (3) is enclosed by a housing (4) for pressurization by means of a pressure medium in the housing (4) to a pressure that essentially corresponds to the first pressure in the sluice feeder (3). The fed out fibre from the sluice feeder (3) to the housing (4) are removable by means of the pressure medium in the housing (4) via a control valve (20), which regulates the pressure in the housing (4), to the drying step at the second, lower pressure. The pressurization in the housing (4) prevents steam to escape from the sluice feeder (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Inventor: Lars Obitz
  • Patent number: 7198696
    Abstract: A method of controlling the production of filler-containing paper. Filler and retention agent are delivered to a paper manufacturing system in a process of paper manufacture. The amount of filler in the paper is measured, as is also the filler concentration or the total concentration in the white water or the stock. Filler is delivered such that the system will be buffered with filler to a generally pre-determined concentration level. The continual addition of retention agent is based exclusively on the amount of filler in the paper measured at that moment in time. When the measured amount of filler present is lower than a desired level, the addition is increased. When the measured amount of filler present is higher than a desired level, the addition is reduced. The continual addition of filler is based, exclusively on the concentration level of filler measured in the white water or the stock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Assignee: M-real Corporation
    Inventors: Kent Börje Eriksson, Oskar Nordin
  • Patent number: 7147754
    Abstract: A system for maintaining calender rolls of a paper machine clean when producing high-gloss paper or coated paper, such as LWC or MWC. To prevent a coating agent, such as coating dye, from adhering onto and soiling a smooth surface of a calender roll, with an overheating phenomenon, the system has a second measurement station (10) provided with measuring and indicator means for producing an output indicating soiledness of the web (W) or a humidity profile. When the output of the second measurement station (10) indicates excessive soiledness or an uneven humidity profile, the system performs at least one of: cleaning the surface of the smooth-surfaced calender roll; changing the nip load in the calender (5); making a correction adjustment of the CD-directional humidity profile of the web (W); cutting the web (W) and conducting it into the pulper; and/or changing the running speed of the web (W).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventors: Pentti Rautiainen, Harri Kuosa, Markku Kyytsönen
  • Patent number: 7146238
    Abstract: A method and system for controlling one or more properties of a sheet of material to be manufactured on a sheet-making machine is disclosed. Actuators to control the sheet properties are arrayed in the cross-direction of the machine. Properties data about one or more properties of the sheet of material are measured and both the magnitude of an actuator control action and the cross-direction shape of an actuator control action are controlled to minimize the variation of the measured properties data from a desired target for each of the one or more properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Gary K. Burma
  • Patent number: 7141141
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for the on-line determination of paper web moisture content and/or temperature on the dryer section of a papermaking machine. The apparatus is designed to form, in combination with a doctor means and/or a packet ventilating tube, such a compact structure wherein the apparatus operates underneath such means or in a close proximity thereto. The invention also relates to a method for control of paper web moisture content and temperature on the basis of measurements performed on the dryer section of a papermaking machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Assignee: EV Group Oy
    Inventors: Pekka Koskinen, Esa Virtanen, Ilpo Pitkaniemi, Jari Ristola
  • Patent number: 7138036
    Abstract: A monitoring apparatus is provided which can ensure the prevention of a paper break even in a poor installation environment. A light source (9) illuminates light (9a) on a lateral edge (1a) of wet paper (1) and a camera (5) captures light (9b) reflected therefrom. The camera (5) is a micro camera and completely covered by a camera box (10). The camera box (10) has an observation window (10a) which is made of a transparent member, at the lens side (5a) of the camera (5). The outer surface of the observation window (10a) is coated and an air curtain (12a) that flows from above to below prevents staining caused by mist. The air curtain (12a) is formed in such a manner that air that is continuously supplied inside a cover (11) flows along the outer surface of the observation window (10a) from an opening portion (11a).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2006
    Assignees: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., OJI Paper Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Yamashita, Setsuo Suzuki, Hiroshi Iwata, Toshihiro Tokudome, Masayuki Ogawa, Isao Kodaka, Masatoshi Kaku, Hisao Usogoe
  • Patent number: 7115188
    Abstract: Process and apparatus for monitoring dewatering in a wet end section of a web production machine. The process includes measuring water flowing into the wet end section, measuring water flowing out of the wet end section, measuring conductivity of the wet web entering the wet end section, measuring conductivity of the water flowing into wet end section, measuring conductivity of water flowing out of the wet end section, and determining a water balance from the measured quantities, which is indicative of dewatering in the wet end. The apparatus is arranged to perform the process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Voith Paper Patent GmbH
    Inventor: Andrew Lilburn
  • Patent number: 7101461
    Abstract: A system and process for measuring paper formation characteristics in real time is disclosed. The system comprises apparatus used in a papermaking process, and includes a rotating forming fabric having an upper and lower surface. A paper slurry is deposited upon the upper surface of the moving forming fabric to prepare a wet paper web. The wet paper web typically moves at a high rate of speed as it rides along upon the surface of the forming fabric. Light is transmitted from a light source to the surface of the wet paper web, and then reflected from the surface of the wet paper web to a camera. An image is formed corresponding to the pattern of the reflected light, and in some instances data generated from the reflected light may be compared to other values to provide a feedback loop to adjust the parameters of the papermaking process in real time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter J. Allen, Scott H. Delzer, Lindsay M. Brewster
  • Patent number: 7063772
    Abstract: Apparatus for treating a fibrous web that includes at least one supporting surface arranged to support a surface of the fibrous web, and at least one sealing device positionable adjacent a surface of the web opposite the surface of the web supported by the at least one supporting surface. The at least one sealing device includes a positionably adjustable sealing element. A distance between the positionably adjustable sealing element and the surface of the web opposite the surface supported by the at least one supporting surface is adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Voith Paper Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Kahl, Uwe Joos
  • Patent number: 7048827
    Abstract: Sheetmaking processes such as papermaking making systems employ water weight sensors underneath the moving water permeable wire that supports the wet stock (pulp slurry). A dynamically compensated calibration equation that equates the water weight plus fiber weight plus wire weight (total weight) to the resistance measured by the water weight sensor is developed for controlling the continuous process. Dynamic compensation accounts for changing papermaking machine conditions or states that affect the intrinsic conductivity of the wet stock being measured. The amount of correction to apply is determined by the conductance measured by a reference sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: John David Watson, Claud Hagart Alexander
  • Patent number: 7001486
    Abstract: A vacuum device for a paper web making apparatus has a housing having an outer web-facing surface and a vacuum channel extending within the housing and having an opening at the web-facing surface. A vacuum source is in fluid communication with the vacuum channel and is operable to draw a vacuum on the paper web via the vacuum channel opening. A fluid delivery system is operable to deliver cleaning fluid into the vacuum channel wherein the vacuum source is operable during the delivery of cleaning fluid into the vacuum channel. In another embodiment, the fluid delivery system is operable to deliver cleaning fluid into the vacuum channel in a fluid delivery direction that is at least partially different from the direction of flow of the vacuum within the vacuum channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: Sheldon John Hilger
  • Patent number: 6998021
    Abstract: In a paper machine which comprises process elements and a measuring beam, the measuring beam is arranged at least at one paper machine process element so that a measuring device for measuring quality properties of a paper web is arrangeable in the measuring beam. The paper machine process element is e.g. a blow box, which is arrangeable in a dryer unit of the paper machine between drying cylinders to blow air via at least one blow air channel provided in the blow box to guide the moving paper web and/or to assist drying.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Metso Automation Oy
    Inventors: Markku Mäntylä, Matti Kukkurainen, Jari Koivu
  • Patent number: 6989078
    Abstract: Methods and systems for the treatment of pulp are provided. The methods include dewatering pulp to a fiber concentration of at least 20%, shredding the dewatered pulp in a closed pulp shredding vessel, transporting the shredded pulp without compression continuously out of the pulp shredding vessel through an outlet pipe which is kept completely filled with passing pulp, directly transporting the shredded pulp to a reaction vessel through a gas-tight conduit gas sealed from the surroundings and communicating with the outlet pipe and the reaction vessel, bleaching the shredded pulp in the reaction vessel with ozone gas, and regulating the gas pressure in the pulp shredding vessel and in the reaction vessel so that ozone gas is prevented from leaking upstream through the outlet pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Valmet Fibertech AB
    Inventors: Monica Bokström, Per Åström
  • Patent number: 6989074
    Abstract: A paper pulp refiner with control system employs active hydrostatic bearings for supporting the refiner rotor, at least in part, the hydrostatic bearings are defined between the refiner rotor plates (25, 55) and stator plates (22, 60) through openings (40, 62, 85) formed in the stator plates for the admission of active hydrostatic fluid. The control fluid flows into the refiner gap under controlled volume and pressure, employing the refining plates as active hydrostatic bearings and flows into the process fluid. Hydrostatic control fluid is used, which is non-contaminated to the process fluid. The rotors of the paper pulp refiners may also be controlled by hydrostatic bearing surfaces formed between relative rotating and non-rotating components, such surfaces having passageways also opening into the process fluid. In the event of loss of control or function, the refiner may continue to operate on the hydrostatic bearings until the control function can be restored.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: Kadant Black Clawson Inc.
    Inventors: John J. Egan, III, Christopher L. Demler
  • Patent number: 6950777
    Abstract: A system and method is provided for analyzing data obtained during manufacture of a web of paper or paperboard on a machine. The system comprises a computer including a database module, a statistical analysis module, and a processor for executing the modules. The database module contains measurements of quality parameters obtained from the web during manufacture. The statistical analysis module is executed by the processor to analyze the measurement data and estimate a target shift in at least one quality parameter that could be made if the controllable variations were removed. The target shift can be transformed into an economic amount (i.e., dollar value) by the statistical analysis module to assist the mill operator with making well informed, economic based decisions. The system further includes a diagnostic module capable of automatically identifying machine parameters that correlate to quality parameters that caused the web to fall outside the desired quality specifications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Voith Paper Inc.
    Inventors: David Andrew Lilburn, Christopher Lee Spence
  • Patent number: 6929716
    Abstract: A method for the manufacture or treatment of a material web, in particular of a paper or a cardboard web, while using a respective machine, in particular a paper machine, including the step of measuring the hardness and/or the compactness of at least one clothing, in particular of at least one felt, fabric, belt and/or the like, of the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Voith Paper Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Rudolf Müch, Raymond P. Shead
  • Patent number: 6925349
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device and a method for synchronizing processes which are executed on a plurality of units (2a, 2b, 2c), in particular, in paper-processing machines, the units (2a, 2b, 2c) being connected to a central control unit (1) via a data bus (6). The present invention is characterized in that the central control unit (1) is designed for distributing movement commands via a data bus (6) to a plurality of units (2a, 2b, 2c), the movement commands containing the instant at which these commands are executed, and that provision is made for the units (2a, 2b, 2c) which keep available the absolute time to synchronously execute these commands at the instant communicated via the commands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG
    Inventors: Kai Albrecht, Holger Faulhammer, Georg Roessler, Eckehard Sommer, Bernhard Wagensommer
  • Patent number: 6905573
    Abstract: The surface of a web is monitored by a fault detection system (20), a machine condition monitoring system, a quality measurement system, a web moisture measurement and/or a web temperature measurement and the soiled part of the surface of the roll is detected and localized by means of a soiling monitoring apparatus (31, 35; 60). A control system (41) controls a cleaning device (40) to remove the detected soiling. As a web (W) travels in a paper or board production or finishing process or in finishing machinery the web and/or the surface of the roll is monitored and after a detected deviation the surface thereof is momentarily spread with a liquid while machinery is running at the same time as the web (W) travels over said roll surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2005
    Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventors: Tapio Mäenpää , Timo Vuorimies, Pekka Koivukunnas, Aaron Mannio, Olli-Pekka Väkevä , Kari Hasanen, Tarja Hanska, Pekka Linnonmaa, Markku Kyytsönen, Helena Leppäkoski, Markus Laitila, Markku Kojo, Toni Seppänen, Marjaana Toppila
  • Patent number: 6893539
    Abstract: Machine and process for the production of a tissue web that includes a drying cylinder and a press shoe arrangement. The press shoe arrangement and the drying cylinder are arranged to form a nip with lateral edge areas. A plurality of contact pressing elements are arranged to exert pressing pressures across the nip, a measuring device is structured and arranged to measure pressing pressures resulting in at least the lateral edge areas, and at least one of a control and regulating device is structured and arranged to locally adjust the pressing pressures in the lateral edge areas by adjusting pressing pressures exerted by contact pressing elements assigned to the lateral edge areas. The instant abstract is neither intended to define the invention disclosed in this specification nor intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Voith Paper Patent GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Thoroe Scherb
  • Patent number: 6881301
    Abstract: A method and an arrangement for controlling evaporation and moisture in a multinip calender (10) when a continuous fibrous web (W) is calendered in calendering nips (1,_2,—3,—4,—5) placed one after the other before the fibrous web is wound on a reel-up/winder (9). With a view to making the net evaporation from and the final moisture content of the web (W) constant when the running situations in the calender (10) change, the web is passed in the calender from the outlet of at least one nip into an air-float chamber (20) of the turning airborne type.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventors: Antti Heikkinen, Pekka Linnonmaa, Reijo Pietikäinen
  • Patent number: 6855230
    Abstract: In a paper or board machine, the cross-direction profile of a flow channel defined between a first dewatering element (52, 53) situated inside a first forming wire loop (50) and a second dewatering element (64, 65) situated inside a second forming wire loop (60) is measured, and the location and/or the position of the blade element (64, 65) is adjusted based on the measurement result in order to regulate the thickness profile of a stock flow. The measurement can be by passing an alternating current of low frequency to a current rail situated in the second dewatering element (64, 65) and by measuring the strength of the magnetic field created by it by at least two measuring devices which have been placed either in the first dewatering element (53) or, when the first dewatering element is a forming roll (52), in the same dewatering element (64) as the current rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventors: Kari I. Salminen, Pasi Virtanen, Jukka Sorsa
  • Patent number: 6835283
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for measuring and controlling the nip pressure in the press of a paper machine, particularly in a shoe press, across and/or along the web running direction. It is largely characterized by the hydraulic, static pressure being measured at reference points through measurement boreholes in the press nip and adjusted continuously. In addition, the invention relates to a device for carrying out the process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2004
    Assignee: Andritz AG
    Inventors: Harald Weigant, Harald Michels, Simone Koidl
  • Patent number: 6805772
    Abstract: Process and apparatus for manufacturing a fibrous material web. The apparatus includes an automatic formation regulator, and the process includes on-line measuring of formation of the fibrous material web, utilizing the on-line measured formation as a controlled variable, and maintaining the formation at a preselectable target level via the automatic formation regulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Voith Paper Patent GmbH
    Inventor: Michael Schwarz
  • Patent number: 6793774
    Abstract: An arrangement of high-pressure water devices in a paper machine including two or more consecutive sub-totalities for making paper is disclosed and includes pump devices for producing high-pressure water, high-pressure water operating devices located in a sub-totality, arranged in various consumption points, and connections to lead high-pressure water from the pump devices to the operating devices. The pump devices include at least one pump unit, from which connections are arranged to various consumption points, which belong to two or more consecutive sub-totalities. A method for arranging a high-pressure water device in a paper machine is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventor: Markku Lyytinen
  • Patent number: 6790316
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for positioning a shoe of a shoe press/shoe clender in a paper machine. In the method, the position of the shoe (11) of the shoe calender/shoe press is measured and, based on the results of the measurement, the position of the shoe is controlled so as to be as desired in the direction of nip compression. The invention also relates to an arrangment for positioning a shoe of a shoe press/shoe calender in a paper machine, which arrangment comprises a shoe roll (10) or equivalent which includes a shoe (11) and hydraulic cylinders (12) connected thereto for moving the shoe (11). The arrangement comprises further at least two measuring devices (15) for measuring the position of the shoe (11) and means (12) for controlling the position of the shoe (11) based the results obtained by means of the measuring devices so as to be as desired in the direction of nip compression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.
    Inventors: Kari Hasanen, Timo Torvi, Helena Leppäskoski
  • Publication number: 20040159416
    Abstract: A vibration-minimizing suspension mechanism for a press roll is provided. The press roll and an opposing roll each having a rotational axis and cooperate to form a press nip for imparting a linear load on a web passing therethrough. The linear load is oriented through the rotational axes of the press and opposing rolls. The suspension mechanism comprises a suspension arm having opposed ends and a medially-disposed pivot, wherein the rotational axis of the press roll is rotatably engaged with one of the opposed ends. The suspension arm is pivotably and adjustably mounted at the pivot to allow the pivot to be adjusted in substantially parallel relation to the linear load. The adjustable pivot thereby allowing a mounting line, defined by the pivot and the rotational axis of the press roll, to be maintained in substantially perpendicular orientation to the linear load to thereby minimize vibration in the press roll.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2004
    Publication date: August 19, 2004
    Applicant: Metso Paper Karlstad AB
    Inventor: Tord Gustavsson
  • Patent number: 6772036
    Abstract: A control system is provided for controlling a process for making paper or paper pulp. The process has a process product output at an end of the process. The controls include a process variable sensor input configured to receive a process variable related to the process. The controller is configured to provide a control signal to control the process. A process model has a model product output which is a model representation of the process product output. The model process output is a function of the sensed process variable and a product output setpoint representative of a desired process product output. The control signal is a function of the product output setpoint and the modeled product output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2004
    Assignee: Fisher-Rosemount Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Evren Eryurek, Kadir Kavaklioglu
  • Patent number: 6755940
    Abstract: A method for increasing caliper control of a fibrous web as the web is wound onto a roll is provided. The method includes winding the fibrous web containing cellulosic fiber onto the roll to form a wound product and conveying the web through a nip prior to winding the web onto the roll. The nip is configured to apply a pressure to the web to selectively decrease the caliper of the web as the web is wound onto the roll. Also disclosed is a system for controlling the caliper of the fibrous web in which a calender device forms a nip through which the fibrous web is conveyed. The system includes an adjustment device, which is configured to adjust the nip of the calender device to increase pressure on the fibrous web as the diameter of the roll increases thus increasing uniformity of the caliper of the fibrous web.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip S. Lin, Paul Bartocci, Pat Samolinski, Lynn Matheus, Peter J. Allen, Mary M. Zielinski, Kenneth F. Arni
  • Publication number: 20040104002
    Abstract: A system for feeding fibres from a fibre separation step at a first pressure to a drying step at a second, lower pressure, the system comprising a sluice feeder (3) provided between the fibre separation step and the drying step. At least an outlet (14) of the sluice feeder (3) is enclosed by a housing (4) for pressurization by means of a pressure medium in the housing (4) to a pressure that essentially corresponds to the first pressure in the sluice feeder (3). The fed out fibre from the sluice feeder (3) to the housing (4) are removable by means of the pressure medium in the housing (4) via a control valve (20), which regulates the pressure in the housing (4), to the drying step at the second, lower pressure. The pressurization in the housing (4) prevents steam to escape from the sluice feeder (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Publication date: June 3, 2004
    Inventor: Lars Obitz
  • Patent number: 6728592
    Abstract: A method of detecting streaks in a web of, for example, moving paper which may be moisture, basis weight or caliper. A cross-direction profile is sensed and a moving average computed and then using minimum thresholds for the variation of the streak value from the average and its width in profile data boxes, the streak is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2004
    Assignee: Voith Paper Automation, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles H. Wells
  • Publication number: 20030183356
    Abstract: An apparatus for modifying a traveling position of a paper web in a paper web processing machine is provided. The apparatus is capable of easily attaching a detection means; requiring no operation of the paper web processing machine to determine an accurately adjusted position for attachment; and extremely easily setting a desired size of a tolerable deviation range of a practical position of a side edge to an originally expected position of the side edge when the sheet travels. The apparatus includes a traveling position modification means for modifying a position of a side edge of a paper web traveling toward a processing section in a paper web processing machine; a detection means for detecting the position of the side edge of the paper web; and a control means connected to the modification means and the detection means for controlling the modification means based on a value detected at the detection means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Publication date: October 2, 2003
    Inventors: Atsushi Satoh, Yoshiki Kunoh