3D visualization for tunnel boring machine steering and alignment control in microtunneling

摘要

On tunneling projects, a tunnel boring machine (TBM) operator heavily counts on experiences to steer TBM and control tunnel alignment, which can be error prone due to lack of visualization of the underground working environment. Any alignment errors may considerably increase the chances of a TBM accidentally ramming into unexpected man-made barriers or hidden boulders, potentially damaging the drill bits of the TBM or even causing the TBM to be trapped underground. To improve the situation, an innovative TBM guidance system was developed by integrating automated site data collection technologies and 4D construction planning models. The as-designed tunnel, the existing facilities nearby are integrated in a 4D production model, and the data collected by total station and sensors are transformed to kinematic parameters through on-line computing which generates a 3D graphic interface for visualizing the underground situation and the orientations of the rear and cutter head of the working TBM.