Shield tunneling machine and tail brush ring replacement method

Abstract

The application discloses a shield tunneling machine and a tail brush ring replacement method. The shield tunneling machine comprises a tail shield, a positioning ring, a limiting ring and a plurality of tail brush rings, the positioning ring is fixedly arranged on the inner wall of the tail shield, and the limiting ring is detachably arranged on the inner wall of the tail shield. The limiting ring is located on the axial rear side of the positioning ring. The plurality of tail brush rings are arranged on the inner side of the tail shield, and the plurality of tail brush rings are sequentially located on the axial rear side of the limiting ring. The tail brush ring located at the front end of the plurality of tail brush rings abuts against the limiting ring. The shield tunneling machine has a working state and a tail brush ring replacement state. In the working state, the limiting ring is connected to the tail shield to limit the plurality of tail brush rings. In the tail brush ring replacement state, the limiting ring is configured to be detached from the tail shield. The shield tunneling machine disclosed by the application realizes the use of a recursive method to make the last tail brush ring fall off, and other tail brush rings that are not seriously worn can continue to be used, thereby reducing the waste of materials and reducing the cost.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of tunnel boring machines, and in particular to a tunnel boring machine and a method for replacing the tail brush ring. Background Technology

[0002] Tunnel boring machines (TBMs) are widely used in underground construction projects due to their high safety, adaptability, and fast tunneling speed. TBMs use a shield shell to support the surrounding soil and employ various sealing measures to prevent external sand, gravel, and mud from entering the shield. At the tail of the shield, a tail brush and grease filling are typically used to achieve the shield's sealing function. The tail brush is generally formed by bending and fluffing steel wire.

[0003] During the tunneling process of a tunnel boring machine (TBM), the tail brush is subjected to prolonged pressure and friction with the tunnel lining segments, leading to wear. When the tail brush is severely worn, its sealing ability weakens. Furthermore, due to the complex external environment of the tunnel body, the tail brush may suffer abnormal damage, which also weakens its sealing ability. This weakened sealing ability of the tail brush creates a risk of leakage within the tunnel body.

[0004] To ensure the internal safety of the shield, the tail brush needs to be replaced when it is severely worn or damaged. In related technologies, replacing the tail brush involves first adjusting the propulsion cylinder to a designated position to expose the front tail brushes, then removing these brushes and reinstalling new ones. However, this method can only replace the first few tail brushes; the most severely damaged last tail brush cannot be replaced.

[0005] It should be noted that the statements in this background section only provide background information relevant to this application and do not necessarily constitute prior art. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides a tunnel boring machine and a method for replacing the tail brush ring, so as to realize the replacement of the last tail brush ring.

[0007] The first aspect of this application provides a tunnel boring machine, comprising: Tail shield; The positioning ring is fixedly installed on the inner wall of the tail shield; The limiting ring is detachably mounted on the inner wall of the tail shield, and the limiting ring is located on the axial rear side of the positioning ring; Multiple tail brush rings are located inside the tail shield, and are sequentially positioned axially behind the limiting ring. The foremost tail brush ring abuts against the limiting ring. The tunnel boring machine has an operating state and a tail brush ring replacement state. In the operating state, the limiting ring is connected to the tail shield to limit the multiple tail brush rings; in the tail brush ring replacement state, the limiting ring is configured to be removed from the tail shield.

[0008] In some embodiments, the tunnel boring machine also includes a propulsion cylinder located in the inner cavity of the tail shield. In the tail brush ring replacement state, the propulsion cylinder is configured to retract to make room for the removal of the limiting ring.

[0009] In some embodiments, the tunnel boring machine further includes a segment assembler, which is configured to continue assembling new segments and push the new segments with propulsion cylinders to advance the tail shield forward after the limiting ring is disassembled and a new tail brush ring is installed in the original position of the limiting ring.

[0010] In some embodiments, the tunnel boring machine further includes a locking device for limiting the tail brush ring located at the rear end. In the locked state, the locking device is engaged with the tail brush ring at the rear end; in the unlocked state, the locking device is unlocked to disengage the tail brush ring at the rear end.

[0011] In some embodiments, the locking device includes a locking lever disposed on the tail shield, the locking lever being movably disposed in the radial direction relative to the tail shield to switch between a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state, the locking lever extends to engage the tail brush ring at the rear end; in the unlocked state, the locking lever retracts to disengage the tail brush ring at the rear end.

[0012] In some embodiments, each of the plurality of tail brush rings includes a locking groove, and in the locked state, a locking lever is inserted into the locking groove of the tail brush ring located at the rearmost end to connect the tail brush ring located at the rearmost end.

[0013] In some embodiments, the inner wall of the tail shield is provided with a guide strip extending in the axial direction, wherein the limiting ring includes a positioning groove that cooperates with the guide strip; and / or, the tail brush ring includes a guide groove that cooperates with the guide strip.

[0014] In some embodiments, the limiting ring includes a plurality of limiting sub-rings disposed in the circumferential direction, each limiting sub-ring being detachably connected to the tail shield.

[0015] In some embodiments, the limiting ring includes a ring body and a positioning groove disposed on the outer wall of the ring body. The positioning groove extends in the axial direction, and the inner wall of the tail shield is provided with a plurality of guide strips extending in the axial direction. The positioning groove and the guide strips are in concave-convex fit.

[0016] In some embodiments, the tail brush ring includes a plurality of tail brush sub-rings disposed in the circumferential direction, and each tail brush sub-ring includes a tail brush ring body and a tail brush disposed on the inner wall of the tail brush ring body.

[0017] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the tail brush ring body is provided with a guide groove extending in the axial direction, and the inner wall of the tail shield is provided with a plurality of guide strips extending in the axial direction, with the guide groove and the guide strips engaging in a concave-convex fit.

[0018] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the tail brush ring body is provided with a sealing groove extending in the circumferential direction, and the tunnel boring machine also includes a seal disposed in the sealing groove.

[0019] A second aspect of this application provides a method for replacing the tail brush ring of the aforementioned tunnel boring machine, comprising the following steps: Remove the limit ring; Install a new tail brush ring in the original position of the limit ring; Continue assembling the tunnel segments and control the tail shield to advance forward; and The tail brush ring at the very end detaches.

[0020] In some embodiments, the tail brush ring replacement method further includes: after installing a new tail brush ring, retracting the control locking lever to switch to the unlocked state.

[0021] In some embodiments, the tail brush ring replacement method further includes: after controlling the tail shield to advance forward so that the penultimate tail brush ring reaches the original position of the last tail brush ring, controlling the locking lever to switch to a locked state to connect the penultimate tail brush ring.

[0022] In some embodiments, the limiting ring is reinstalled after the tail brush ring at the rear end detaches.

[0023] Based on the technical solution provided in this application, a tunnel boring machine (TBM) includes a tail shield, a positioning ring, a limiting ring, and multiple tail brush rings. The positioning ring is fixedly mounted on the inner wall of the tail shield; the limiting ring is detachably mounted on the inner wall of the tail shield. The limiting ring is located axially rearward of the positioning ring. Multiple tail brush rings are located on the inner side of the tail shield, and the multiple tail brush rings are sequentially located axially rearward of the limiting ring. The foremost tail brush ring abuts against the limiting ring. The TBM has an operating state and a tail brush ring replacement state. In the operating state, the limiting ring is connected to the tail shield to limit the position of the multiple tail brush rings; in the tail brush ring replacement state, the limiting ring is configured to be detached from the tail shield. The TBM of this embodiment, by setting a limiting ring on the inner wall of the tail shield, ensures that in the operating state, the limiting ring is positioned between the positioning ring and the multiple tail brush rings to limit the position of the tail brush rings. When the last tail brush ring needs to be replaced, that is, during the tail brush ring replacement process, the limiting ring is removed from the tail shield, thus creating space for installing the new tail brush ring. The tunnel boring machine then proceeds with normal advancement and segment assembly. In this way, the last tail brush ring moves backward and detaches under the action of friction, and the penultimate tail brush ring becomes the new last tail brush ring, thereby completing the replacement of the last tail brush ring. The tunnel boring machine in this embodiment uses a limiting ring to achieve a recursive method of detaching the last tail brush ring, achieving the purpose of replacing the most worn last tail brush ring, with a small workload. Furthermore, this embodiment only replaces the last tail brush ring during replacement, so other tail brush rings with less wear can continue to be used, reducing material waste and lowering costs.

[0024] Other features and advantages of this application will become clear from the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0025] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of this application and form part of this application, illustrate exemplary embodiments and are used to explain this application, but do not constitute an undue limitation of this application. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is an exploded structural diagram of a tunnel boring machine according to an embodiment of this application.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional structural diagram of a tunnel boring machine in operation according to an embodiment of this application.

[0027] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the cooperation structure between the tail shield and the tail brush ring of the tunnel boring machine according to an embodiment of this application.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a partial structural diagram of the tail shield of a tunnel boring machine according to an embodiment of this application.

[0029] Figure 5 This is a partial structural schematic diagram of the limiting ring of the tunnel boring machine according to an embodiment of this application.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a partial structural diagram of the tail brush ring of a tunnel boring machine according to an embodiment of this application.

[0031] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the outer wall structure of the limiting ring in an embodiment of this application.

[0032] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the outer wall structure of the tail brush dividing ring in an embodiment of this application.

[0033] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the inner wall structure of the tail brush dividing ring according to an embodiment of this application.

[0034] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the tail brush replacement method for a tunnel boring machine according to some embodiments of this application.

[0035] Figures 11 to 14 This is a diagram illustrating the process of replacing the last tail brush ring on a tunnel boring machine according to an embodiment of this application.

[0036] Marker explanation: 1. Tail shield; 13. Guide bar; 14. Locking lever; 2. Limiting ring; 20. Ring body; 21. Mounting hole; 22. Positioning groove; 3. Tail brush ring; 31. Tail brush ring body; 32. Grease groove; 33. Locking groove; 34. Guide groove; 35. Sealing groove; 36. Tail brush; 4. Positioning ring; 15. Propel the hydraulic cylinder; 17. Pipe segments; 18. Connectors; Detailed Implementation

[0037] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit this application or its application or use. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0038] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps described in these embodiments do not limit the scope of this application. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following drawings denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one drawing, it need not be further discussed in subsequent drawings.

[0039] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "over," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "above" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways, and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0040] After thorough research, this application proposes a method for replacing a tunnel boring machine and its tail brush ring. By adding a limiting ring and using a progressive replacement method, the last tail brush ring with the most severe wear is replaced.

[0041] The following is based on Figures 1 to 14 The structure of a tunnel boring machine according to some embodiments of this application and the tail brush ring replacement method of the tunnel boring machine based on these embodiments will be described in detail.

[0042] refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The tunnel boring machine provided in some embodiments of this application includes a tail shield 1, a positioning ring 4, a limiting ring 2, and a plurality of tail brush rings 3. The positioning ring 4 is fixedly mounted on the inner wall of the tail shield 1. The limiting ring 2 is detachably mounted on the inner wall of the tail shield 1. The limiting ring 2 is located axially rear of the positioning ring 4. The plurality of tail brush rings 3 are disposed on the inner side of the tail shield 1, and are sequentially located axially behind the limiting ring 2. The foremost tail brush ring 3 abuts against the limiting ring 2. The tunnel boring machine has an operating state and a tail brush ring replacement state. In the operating state, the limiting ring 2 is connected to the tail shield 1 to limit the plurality of tail brush rings 3. In the tail brush ring replacement state, the limiting ring 2 is configured to be detached from the tail shield 1.

[0043] In some embodiments of this application, the tunnel boring machine (TBM) uses a limiting ring 2 on the inner wall of the tail shield 1. During operation, the limiting ring 2 is positioned between the positioning ring 4 and multiple tail brush rings 3 to limit the position of the tail brush rings 3. When the last tail brush ring needs to be replaced, i.e., during tail brush ring replacement, the limiting ring 2 is removed from the tail shield 1, creating space for installing the new tail brush ring. The TBM then proceeds with normal advancement and segment assembly. The last tail brush ring moves backward and detaches under friction, and the penultimate tail brush ring becomes the new last tail brush ring, thus completing the replacement of the last tail brush ring. This embodiment of the TBM uses the limiting ring 2 to achieve a recursive method to detach the last tail brush ring, achieving the purpose of replacing the most worn last tail brush ring with minimal workload. Furthermore, this embodiment only replaces the last tail brush ring, so other tail brush rings with less wear can continue to be used, reducing material waste and lowering costs.

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, the tail shield 1 is a cylindrical shell and is a component of the tunnel boring machine's shield body. The shield body of the tunnel boring machine includes the front shield, the middle shield, and the tail shield 1. The front shield, the middle shield, and the tail shield 1 are arranged sequentially along the axial direction of the shield body. The front end of the tail shield 1 is connected to the middle shield and moves together with the main body of the tunnel boring machine. Multiple grease channels are provided on the inner wall of the tail shield 1. During the tunneling process, the grease channels are used to transport grease to fill the cavity of the tail shield brush to form a tail seal.

[0045] The positioning ring 4 is fixedly mounted on the inner wall of the tail shield 1. Specifically, the positioning ring 4 is welded to the inner wall of the tail shield 1.

[0046] The limiting ring 2 is detachably connected to the inner wall of the tail shield 1. (Reference) Figure 2 The limiting ring 2 is detachably connected to the inner wall of the tail shield 1 via a connector 18. The connector 18 can be a bolt, etc.

[0047] Multiple tail brush rings 3 are disposed on the inner side of the tail shield 1. It should be noted that the multiple tail brush rings 3 are not directly fixed to the inner side of the tail shield 1. The outer wall of the tail brush ring 3 and the inner wall of the tail shield 1 form a closed, non-fixed contact. During the replacement of the last tail brush, each tail brush ring 3 can move axially relative to the tail shield 1. Because each tail brush ring 3 can move axially relative to the tail shield 1, as the tail shield 1 advances forward, each tail brush ring 3 is moved backward by the frictional force of the tube segments, thus causing the last tail brush ring to detach.

[0048] To facilitate the disassembly of the limiting ring 2, in some embodiments, reference is made to... Figure 1 and Figure 5 The limiting ring 2 includes multiple limiting sub-rings arranged in the circumferential direction. Each limiting sub-ring is detachably connected to the tail shield 1. Thus, when the tail brush ring needs to be removed during replacement, the multiple limiting sub-rings can be removed one by one.

[0049] Since the limiting ring 2 needs to be disassembled and reassembled in different states of the tunnel boring machine, in order to ensure the accuracy of the position of the limiting ring 2 after disassembly and reinstallation, in some embodiments, reference is made to... Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 The limiting ring includes a ring body 20 and a positioning groove 22 disposed on the outer wall of the ring body 20. The positioning groove 22 extends in the axial direction. The inner wall of the tail shield 1 is provided with a plurality of guide strips 13 extending in the axial direction. The positioning groove 22 and the guide strips 13 are in concave-convex fit.

[0050] like Figure 4 As shown, the tail shield 1 includes a guide strip 13 disposed on its inner wall. The guide strip 13 extends in the axial direction. Figure 5 As shown, the limiting ring includes a positioning groove 22 on its outer wall. The guide strip 13 and the positioning groove 22 are in a concave-convex fit. In this way, when each limiting ring is removed and reinstalled, the positioning groove 22 of each limiting ring is in a concave-convex fit with the corresponding guide strip 13, that is, the guide strip 13 is locked in the positioning groove 22, thereby ensuring the positioning accuracy of the limiting ring.

[0051] Specifically, such as Figure 5 and Figure 7As shown, each limiting ring has at least two positioning grooves 22 spaced apart in the circumferential direction on its outer wall.

[0052] like Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, each limiting ring also includes multiple mounting holes 21. Each mounting hole 21 is used to pass through a connector 18 for connection to the tail shield 1.

[0053] In some embodiments, the inner wall of the tail shield 1 is provided with a guide strip 13 arranged in the axial direction, wherein the limiting ring 2 includes a positioning groove 22 that cooperates with the guide strip 13.

[0054] In other embodiments, the tail brush ring 3 includes a guide groove 34 that engages with the guide strip 13.

[0055] refer to Figure 1 In some embodiments, the tail brush ring 3 includes a plurality of tail brush sub-rings arranged in the circumferential direction. Each tail brush sub-ring includes a tail brush ring body 31 and tail brushes 36 disposed on the inner wall of the tail brush ring body 31.

[0056] refer to Figure 3 In some embodiments, the outer wall of the tail brush ring body 31 is provided with a guide groove 34 extending in the axial direction, and the inner wall of the tail shield 1 is provided with a plurality of guide strips 13 extending in the axial direction. The guide groove 34 and the guide strips 13 are in a concave-convex fit. In this way, when the tail brush rings are being replaced and the plurality of tail brush rings 3 move backward relative to the tail shield 1, the position of each tail brush ring 3 is limited by the fit between the guide strips 13 and the guide groove 34, so as to prevent the position of the tail brush rings 3 from shifting during the movement.

[0057] In some embodiments, the outer wall of the tail brush ring body 31 is provided with a sealing groove 35 extending in the circumferential direction. The tunnel boring machine also includes a sealing element disposed within the sealing groove 35. The sealing element is disposed within the sealing groove 35 such that the sealing element is tightly fitted against the inner wall of the tail shield 1, thereby effectively ensuring the sealing performance of the tail brush ring during its movement inside the tail shield 1.

[0058] Specifically, the seal includes a sealing strip.

[0059] like Figure 8 As shown, the outer wall of the tail brush ring body 31 is provided with two sealing grooves 35 spaced apart in the axial direction. The two sealing grooves 35 are more conducive to ensuring the sealing performance of the tail brush ring during its movement inside the tail shield 1.

[0060] like Figure 8 As shown, the outer wall of the tail brush ring body 31 is also provided with a grease groove 32. The position of the grease groove 32 corresponds to the position of the grease hole opened on the tail shield 1. The two sealing grooves 35 mentioned above are respectively provided on the front and rear sides of the grease groove 32.

[0061] In some embodiments, the tunnel boring machine further includes a locking device for limiting the tail brush ring located at the rear end. In the locked state, the locking device is engaged with the tail brush ring at the rear end; in the unlocked state, the locking device is unlocked to disengage the tail brush ring at the rear end.

[0062] refer to Figure 4 In some embodiments, the tunnel boring machine further includes a locking lever 14 for limiting the tail brush ring located at the rearmost end. The locking lever 14 is disposed on the tail shield 1 and movably disposed radially relative to the tail shield 1 to switch between a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state, the locking lever 14 extends to engage the tail brush ring at the rearmost end; in the unlocked state, the locking lever 14 retracts to disengage the tail brush ring at the rearmost end.

[0063] Of course, in other embodiments, other locking structures can also be used to lock the axial position of the tail brush ring at the rear end. This is not a limitation.

[0064] Locking rod 14 is used to limit the position of the last tail brush ring. Limiting ring 2 and positioning ring 4 are used to limit the position of the foremost tail brush ring. This restricts the axial position of each tail brush ring during operation. Since this embodiment requires replacement of the last tail brush ring, after installing the new tail brush ring at the original position of limiting ring 2, locking rod 14 must be retracted to switch to the unlocked state. This allows the last tail brush ring to move backward and disengage under the friction of the tunnel segments as the tunnel boring machine continues its normal forward movement. After the last tail brush ring disengages, the original penultimate tail brush ring moves to the position of the original last tail brush ring to form a new last tail brush ring. At this point, locking rod 14 needs to be extended to lock the new last tail brush ring.

[0065] refer to Figure 6 In some embodiments, each of the multiple tail brush rings 3 includes a locking groove 33. In the locked state, the locking lever 14 is inserted into the locking groove 33 of the last tail brush ring to connect the last tail brush ring. Here, the last tail brush ring can be either the last tail brush ring to be replaced or the new last tail brush ring after the last tail brush ring to be replaced has been removed.

[0066] refer to Figure 2 In some embodiments, the tunnel boring machine also includes a propulsion cylinder 15 located within the inner cavity of the tail shield 1. During tail brush ring replacement, the propulsion cylinder 15 is configured to retract after extending to its maximum stroke to allow space for the removal of the retaining ring 2. Figure 2As shown, during the tunnel boring machine's excavation process, the piston rod of the propulsion cylinder 15 abuts against the tunnel segment 17 to propel it forward. When the tail brush ring needs to be replaced, the limiting ring 2 needs to be removed. Therefore, the propulsion cylinder 15 needs to be retracted to create clearance for the removal of the limiting ring 2.

[0067] refer to Figure 12 and Figure 13 In some embodiments, the tunnel boring machine also includes a segment assembly machine. After the limiting ring 2 is removed and a new tail brush ring is installed in the original position of the limiting ring 2, the segment assembly machine is configured to continue assembling new segments, and the propulsion cylinder 15 pushes the new segments to advance the tail shield 1 forward. During the forward advancement of the tail shield 1, multiple tail brush rings move backward under the friction of the segments, thereby causing the last tail brush ring to disengage.

[0068] refer to Figure 10 This application also provides a method for replacing the tail brush ring of the tunnel boring machine described above, including the following steps: S610, remove limit ring 2; S620, install a new tail brush ring at the original position of limit ring 2; S630, continues assembling tunnel segments and controls the tail shield 1 to advance forward; and S640 disengages the tail brush ring located at the rear end.

[0069] The tail brush ring replacement method of this application embodiment involves first removing the limiting ring 2 to make room for installing the new tail brush ring, and then installing the new tail brush ring in the original position of the limiting ring 2. After installation, the tunnel boring machine is controlled to advance forward, causing all the tail brush rings to move backward, so that the tail brush ring at the last end disengages, thereby completing the replacement of the last tail brush ring.

[0070] In some embodiments, the tail brush ring replacement method further includes: after installing a new tail brush ring, retracting the control locking lever 14 to switch to the unlocked state.

[0071] In some embodiments, the tail brush ring replacement method further includes: after controlling the tail shield 1 to advance forward so that the penultimate tail brush ring reaches the original position of the last tail brush ring, controlling the locking lever 14 to switch to a locked state to connect the penultimate tail brush ring.

[0072] In some embodiments, the limiting ring is reinstalled after the tail brush ring at the rear end detaches.

[0073] The following is based on Figures 1 to 14 This application provides a detailed description of the structure of a tunnel boring machine according to a specific embodiment and a method for replacing the tail brush ring of the tunnel boring machine based on this embodiment.

[0074] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the tunnel boring machine in this embodiment includes a tail shield 1, a positioning ring 4, a limiting ring 2, multiple tail brush rings 3, a locking rod 14, a propulsion cylinder 15, and a connecting piece 18.

[0075] The positioning ring 4, the limiting ring 2, the multiple tail brush rings 3, and the propulsion cylinder 15 are all located inside the tail shield 1. The positioning ring 4 is fixedly mounted on the inner wall of the tail shield 1. The limiting ring 2 is detachably connected to the inner wall of the tail shield 1 via a connector 18. The multiple tail brush rings 3 are located on the inner side of the tail shield 1.

[0076] Multiple tail brush rings 3 are arranged sequentially in the axial direction.

[0077] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a locking lever 14 is provided on the tail shield 1. The tail brush ring 3 includes a locking groove 33. The locking lever 14 is radially retractable relative to the tail shield 1 to insert into or disengage from the locking groove 33. In the locked state, the locking lever 14 extends to insert into the locking groove 33, thereby locking the tail brush ring at the rear end. In the unlocked state, the locking lever 14 retracts to disengage from the locking groove 33, thereby unlocking the tail brush ring at the rear end, thereby enabling relative movement of the tail shield 1.

[0078] The inner wall of the tail shield 1 is also provided with a plurality of guide strips 13 spaced apart in the circumferential direction. Each guide strip 13 extends in the axial direction. Figure 3 and Figure 8 As shown, the tail brush ring 3 includes a plurality of guide grooves 34 spaced apart in the circumferential direction. Each guide groove 34 extends in the axial direction. The positions of the plurality of guide grooves 34 and the plurality of guide strips 13 are correspondingly arranged. This ensures that when the plurality of tail brush rings 3 move backward relative to the tail shield 1, the plurality of guide grooves 34 can still cooperate with the plurality of guide strips 13, thereby ensuring that the plurality of tail brush rings 3 maintain accurate positioning during the movement.

[0079] like Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the limiting ring 2 includes a positioning groove 22 and a mounting hole 21. The positioning groove 22 is configured to correspond to the guide strip 13 to position the limiting ring 2. The mounting hole 21 is used to pass through a connector 18 to connect the limiting ring 2 to the tail shield 1.

[0080] like Figure 8 As shown, the tail brush ring 3 includes multiple tail brush sub-rings arranged in the circumferential direction. Figure 9 As shown, each tail brush ring includes a tail brush ring body 31 and a tail brush 36 disposed on the inner wall of the tail brush ring body 31. The outer wall of the tail brush ring body 31 is provided with a guide groove 34, a locking groove 33, a grease groove 32 and two sealing grooves 35.

[0081] like Figure 2As shown, in the operating state, the limiting ring 2 is fixed to the tail shield 1 by bolts, and limits the tail brush ring in the operating state. Figure 11 and Figure 12 As shown, in the tail brush ring replacement state, the limiting ring 2 is removed, and a new tail brush ring is added to the original position of the limiting ring 2. The locking rod 14 is retracted to switch to the unlocked state. Then, the segment assembly machine is controlled to continue assembly, and the propulsion cylinder 15 is controlled to push the tail shield 1 forward for tunneling. At this time, all tail brush rings move backward continuously during the tunneling process, as shown. Figure 13 As shown, until the last tail brush ring falls off, the second-to-last tail brush ring reaches the original position of the last ring, and then the locking lever 14 extends to limit the movement, as shown. Figure 14 As shown, after reinstalling the limit ring 2, the replacement work is completed, and the tunnel boring machine resumes normal tunneling.

[0082] The tail brush ring 3 is located on the inner rear side of the tail shield 1, and the tail brush ring 3 includes multiple tail brush sub-rings, which are spliced ​​together to form a ring. Each tail brush sub-ring includes a tail brush ring body 31. The tail brush ring body 31 includes an arc-shaped plate. The outer diameter of the arc-shaped plate is equal to the inner diameter of the tail shield 1. A ring of tail brushes 36 is evenly arranged on the inner side of the tail brush ring body 31. The tail brushes 36 can be connected to the inner side of the tail brush ring body 31 by welding, mounting, or other arbitrary methods. After multiple tail brush ring bodies 31 are spliced ​​together to form a ring, the outer side of the tail brush ring body 31 and the inner side of the tail shield 1 form a closed non-fixed contact. In the tail brush ring replacement state, the tail brush ring can move axially relative to the tail shield 1. The outer wall of the tail brush ring body 31 is provided with two sealing grooves 35, and a sealing strip is installed in the sealing grooves 35 during installation. The outer wall of the tail brush ring body 31 is also provided with a grease groove 32, the position of which corresponds to the grease hole of the tail shield. The outer wall of the tail brush ring body 31 has an axially arranged guide groove 34 and a locking groove 33, which respectively match the guide strip and locking rod on the inner side of the tail shield. The axial front end of the tail brush ring 3 is limited by the positioning ring 4 and the limiting ring 2, and the last tail brush ring is locked and limited by the locking device. The multiple tail brush rings are limited by interaction with each other.

[0083] The limiting ring 2 is located axially rearward of the positioning ring 4. The limiting ring 2 is composed of multiple arc plates and is a detachable device. The outer diameter of the arc plates is equal to the inner diameter of the tail shield, and the inner diameter is equal to or smaller than the inner diameter of the tail brush ring. The outer wall of the limiting ring 2 has multiple mounting holes 21, corresponding to the threaded holes on the inner wall of the tail shield 1. In operation, the limiting ring 2 is fixedly installed on the tail shield 1 by bolts, serving to limit the axial movement of the rear tail brush ring and ensure the cleanliness of the tail brush replacement space. During tail brush replacement, each arc plate is removed piece by piece, and a new tail brush ring is assembled. After tail brush replacement, the limiting ring 2 is reinstalled. It should be noted that the length of the limiting ring 2 is greater than the length of the tail brush ring 3, allowing sufficient operating space for assembling the new tail brush ring.

[0084] The outer wall of the limiting ring 2 is provided with a positioning groove 22, which cooperates with the guide strip 13 to position the limiting ring 2.

[0085] The sealing device is mainly used to ensure the sealing performance of the tail brush ring during its movement inside the shield. The sealing ring is located in the sealing groove on the outside of the tail brush ring, and its outer side is in close contact with the inner wall of the tail shield. Each tail brush ring has two sealing devices, distributed in front and behind the grease groove. The selection of the sealing ring must ensure that the tail brush ring is not damaged or overturned during its movement inside the shield.

[0086] The tunnel boring machine (TBM) using this embodiment employs a progressive replacement method when replacing the tail brush ring. If severe damage to the tail seal is discovered during TBM excavation, excavation is stopped, and the tail seal, especially the last tail brush ring, is replaced. Figures 11 to 14 As shown, the method for replacing the tail brush ring includes the following steps: like Figure 11 As shown, after the propulsion cylinder 15 propels the tube segment to its maximum stroke, the propulsion cylinder is retracted to the designated position, exposing the splicing space of the tail brush ring.

[0087] like Figure 11 As shown, remove the limiting rings 2 that are bolted to the tail shield 1 piece by piece, clean the inner surface of the tail shield 1, splice the new tail brush ring piece by piece in front of the first tail brush ring, install the sealing ring in the sealing groove of the tail brush ring, and ensure that the guide groove and the guide strip fit well. like Figure 12 As shown, after the new tail brush ring is installed, the control locking rod 14 retracts and the segment assembly process resumes. The propulsion cylinder pushes the segment to make the shield machine body move forward. The old and new tail brush rings move backward continuously due to friction with the segment. like Figure 13 As shown, when the locking groove of the second-to-last old tail brush ring reaches the corresponding position of the locking rod 14 set on the tail shield 1, the locking rod 14 is extended to axially position the second-to-last old tail brush ring. Then the last old tail brush ring moves continuously to the rear of the tail shield until it falls off naturally. like Figure 14 As shown, after the assembly of this ring segment is completed, the propulsion cylinder is retrieved to the designated position, the limit rings are installed piece by piece, and then the tunnel boring machine resumes normal operation.

[0088] In one method for replacing the tail brush ring in this embodiment, as described above, a new tail brush ring is assembled before the first tail brush ring to ensure that at least a set number of tail brushes are working simultaneously during the tail brush replacement process, thereby increasing the sealing safety during replacement. In addition to positioning the tail brushes in their working state, a limiting ring 2 is used to occupy the space for the tail brush ring assembly, effectively ensuring the assembly environment. By adopting a iterative replacement method, the old and new tail brushes are moved backward simultaneously, removing only the last tail brush ring, which is the most severely damaged. This improves the shield tail's sealing performance while avoiding the waste of the first few functional tail brushes.

[0089] Therefore, the tail brush ring replacement method of this embodiment can safely and efficiently replace the last tail brush ring of the tunnel boring machine. Compared with existing methods, the replacement method of this embodiment can replace the most worn last tail brush ring without repeatedly removing the tunnel segments or using other large tooling. It only requires adding a new tail brush ring and then gradually removing the last tail brush ring to achieve the purpose of replacing the last tail brush ring, which has a small workload, high safety, and less material waste.

[0090] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application and not to limit them; although this application has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the specific implementation of this application or equivalent substitutions can be made to some technical features without departing from the spirit of the technical solutions of this application, and all such modifications and substitutions should be covered within the scope of the technical solutions claimed in this application.

Claims

1. A tunnel boring machine, characterized in that, include: Tail shield (1); The positioning ring (4) is fixedly installed on the inner wall of the tail shield (1); A limiting ring (2) is detachably mounted on the inner wall of the tail shield (1), and the limiting ring (2) is located on the axial rear side of the positioning ring (4); Multiple tail brush rings (3) are disposed on the inner side of the tail shield (1), and the multiple tail brush rings (3) are sequentially located on the axial rear side of the limiting ring (2). The tail brush ring located at the foremost end of the multiple tail brush rings (3) abuts against the limiting ring (2). A locking device is provided for limiting the tail brush ring located at the rearmost end. The locking device includes a locking rod (14) disposed on the tail shield (1). Each of the plurality of tail brush rings (3) includes a locking groove (33). The locking rod (14) is movably disposed in the radial direction relative to the tail shield (1) to switch between a locked state and an unlocked state. In the locked state, the locking device is engaged with the rearmost tail brush ring. In the unlocked state, the locking device is unlocked to disengage the rearmost tail brush ring. Segment assembly machine; The tunnel boring machine has an operating state and a tail brush ring replacement state. In the operating state, the limiting ring (2) is connected to the tail shield (1) to limit the multiple tail brush rings (3). In the tail brush ring replacement state, the limiting ring (2) is configured to be removed from the tail shield (1) to make room for the installation of a new tail brush ring. After the new tail brush ring is installed in the original position of the limiting ring (2), the locking device is configured to enter the unlocked state so that the last tail brush ring moves backward and disengages as the tunnel boring machine continues to advance normally.

2. The tunnel boring machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tunnel boring machine also includes a propulsion cylinder (15) located in the inner cavity of the tail shield (1). In the tail brush ring replacement state, the propulsion cylinder (15) is configured to retract to make room for the removal of the limiting ring (2).

3. The tunnel boring machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The segment assembly machine is configured to continue assembling new segments and the propulsion cylinder (15) pushes the new segments to advance the tail shield (1) forward.

4. The tunnel boring machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, In the locked state, the locking lever (14) extends to connect to the tail brush ring at the rear end; in the unlocked state, the locking lever (14) retracts to disengage the tail brush ring at the rear end.

5. The tunnel boring machine according to claim 4, characterized in that, In the locked state, the locking lever (14) is inserted into the locking groove (33) of the tail brush ring at the rear end to connect the tail brush ring at the rear end.

6. The tunnel boring machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner wall of the tail shield (1) is provided with a guide strip (13) extending along the axial direction, wherein the limiting ring (2) includes a positioning groove (22) that cooperates with the guide strip (13); and / or, the tail brush ring (3) includes a guide groove (34) that cooperates with the guide strip (13).

7. The tunnel boring machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The limiting ring (2) includes a plurality of limiting sub-rings arranged in the circumferential direction, each of the limiting sub-rings being detachably connected to the tail shield (1).

8. The tunnel boring machine according to claim 7, characterized in that, The limiting ring includes a ring body (20) and a positioning groove (22) provided on the outer wall of the ring body (20). The positioning groove (22) extends along the axial direction. The inner wall of the tail shield (1) is provided with a plurality of guide strips (13) extending along the axial direction. The positioning groove (22) and the guide strips (13) are in concave-convex cooperation.

9. The tunnel boring machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tail brush ring (3) includes a plurality of tail brush sub-rings arranged in the circumferential direction. Each tail brush sub-ring includes a tail brush ring body (31) and a tail brush (36) arranged on the inner wall of the tail brush ring body (31).

10. The tunnel boring machine according to claim 9, characterized in that, The outer wall of the tail brush ring body (31) is provided with a guide groove (34) extending along the axial direction, and the inner wall of the tail shield (1) is provided with a plurality of guide strips (13) extending along the axial direction. The guide groove (34) and the guide strips (13) are in concave-convex fit.

11. The tunnel boring machine according to claim 9, characterized in that, The outer wall of the tail brush ring body (31) is provided with a sealing groove (35) extending in the circumferential direction, and the tunnel boring machine also includes a sealing element disposed in the sealing groove (35).

12. A method for replacing the tail brush ring of a tunnel boring machine based on claim 1, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: Remove the limiting ring (2); Install a new tail brush ring at the original position of the limiting ring (2); Control the locking lever (14) to retract to enter the unlocked state; and Continue assembling the segments and control the tail shield (1) to advance forward so that the tail brush ring at the rear end disengages; After controlling the tail shield (1) to advance forward so that the penultimate tail brush ring reaches the original position of the last tail brush ring, control the locking lever (14) to switch to the locked state to connect the penultimate tail brush ring.

13. The method for replacing the tail brush ring of a tunnel boring machine according to claim 12, characterized in that, After the tail brush ring at the very end detaches, reinstall the limit ring.

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