1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to the detection and control of paper machine profiles and, more particularly, to the detection and control of a physical characteristic, such as moisture content, of a paper machine profile.
2. Description of the Prior Art
In the prior art, there exists systems for determining a physical characteristic, such as moisture content, of a moving paper web. The systems rely on actual measurement of the physical characteristic through data obtained by microwave sensors, radiation sensors, and the like. The sensors are either fixed-point or adapted to scan a profile of the web in the cross direction. (Cross direction is defined as the direction normal to the direction of movement of the web. In contrast, machine direction is defined as a direction parallel to the direction of movement of the web.)
The prior art, however, suffers from several drawbacks. First, often relatively complex iterative calculations need to be performed to determine the physical characteristic of the web based on readings obtained by prior art sensors. Second, the use of prior art radioactive devices is not desirable due to the potential harm which may be caused by a malfunction or failure of the radioactive device. Third, the prior art sensors have limited mobility, even the scanning sensors. Scanning sensors are typically fixed to move along a predetermined path, and the path is often chosen to compensate for variations of characteristics in the machine direction of the web, due to the continuous movement of the web during a scanning procedure. However, the path of such scanners is not typically movable relative to the web along the machine direction.
It is, thus, an object of the subject invention to provide a system for readily discerning a physical characteristic, such as moisture, of a moving web.
It is also an object of the subject invention to adjust process controls of a paper making machine in response to data obtained relating to a physical characteristic of the web.
It is yet another object of the subject invention to provide a system capable of adjusting the physical makeup of a paper web in response to data obtained relating to a physical characteristic of the web.