A method for monitoring and analyzing a paper manufacturing process, is
disclosed in which a large number of quantities (x.sub.i, t) are measured
from the process, the measured quantities (x.sub.i, t) are entered as an
input vector (X, t) into a neural network, which, in response to the input
vector, produces an output vector (Y, t) as a continuous quantity, at
least one fingerprint consistent with a good process situation in regard
of runnability, i.e. an optimal output vector (Y.sub.o, t) is determined
and stored in memory, the stored fingerprints and fingerprints or output
vectors obtained in a normal process situation are compared substantially
in real time, and based on the comparison, a difference to be presented in
a graphic form to the user is determined. Accordingly, a continuous
time-dependent scalar quantity k=k(t) to be presented as a result to the
user is determined as a geometric distance between the instantaneous
measured fingerprint (Y, t) and the taught fingerprint (Y.sub.o), and the
scalar quantity k=k(t) is displayed via a display device to the user.
