A neural network system is provided that models the system in a system
model (12) with the output thereof providing a predicted output. This
predicted output is modified or controlled by an output control (14).
Input data is processed in a data preprocess step (10) to reconcile the
data for input to the system model (12). Additionally, the error resulted
from the reconciliation is input to an uncertainty model to predict the
uncertainty in the predicted output. This is input to a decision processor
(20) which is utilized to control the output control (14). The output
control (14) is controlled to either vary the predicted output or to
inhibit the predicted output whenever the output of the uncertainty model
(18) exceeds a predetermined decision threshold, input by a decision
threshold block (22). Additionally, a validity model (16) is also provided
which represents the reliability or validity of the output as a function
of the number of data points in a given data region during training of the
system model (12). This predicts the confidence in the predicted output
which is also input to the decision processor (20). The decision processor
(20) therefore bases its decision on the predicted confidence and the
predicted uncertainty. Additionally, the uncertainty output by the data
preprocess block (10) can be utilized to train the system model (12).