Synchronous pushing and assembling shield machine and synchronous pushing and assembling construction method

Abstract

This invention discloses a synchronous tunnel boring machine (TBM) for advancement and assembly, and a synchronous advancement and assembly construction method, including a cutterhead, main drive, front shield, middle shield, tail shield, personnel gate, propulsion cylinders, thrust transmission device, segment assembly machine, and excavation face balancing device. The thrust transmission device consists of a first transmission ring, assembly cylinders, and load-bearing blocks, with the segment assembly machine located at the thrust transmission device. The excavation face balancing device includes a second hydraulic cylinder, a third transmission column, a third hydraulic cylinder, and a holding mechanism. The thrust transmission device is installed with its front end connected to the propulsion cylinders and its rear end connected to the front face of the assembled segment. The propulsion force is transmitted to the segment via the device and supported by the friction between the segment and the synchronous grout. During TBM advancement, the segment assembly machine completes one ring assembly. After advancing and assembling one ring, the excavation face balancing device is used to connect the entire ring of segments and move the thrust transmission device forward, continuing advancement and assembly, achieving synchronous advancement and assembly of the TBM, and improving construction progress.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to shield tunneling design and construction, and particularly to a shield tunneling machine that can be simultaneously advanced and assembled, and a method for simultaneous advancement and assembly construction. Background Technology

[0002] TBMs and tunnel boring machines (TBMs), as cutting-edge equipment in the international tunnel construction field, have become the preferred choice for tunnel construction due to their significant advantages—low safety risk, excellent tunnel forming quality, high construction efficiency, and relatively low cost. TBMs are suitable for hard rock formations, with thrust acting on the already excavated tunnel face, enabling continuous advancement and a monthly construction progress of over 1,000 meters. TBMs, due to the soil chamber pressure balancing the water and soil pressure at the face, are suitable for various formations, offering a wider range of applications and more diverse scenarios compared to TBMs. However, existing TBMs, because the thrust acts on the already assembled tunnel segments, require alternating advancement and segment assembly. This inability to advance continuously results in a relatively low construction progress. Therefore, some experts and scholars hope to innovate to achieve simultaneous TBM advancement and segment assembly, thereby improving the construction progress of TBMs.

[0003] Patent application CN115539062A discloses a control method and system for a synchronous tunneling and assembly propulsion cylinder. During synchronous assembly, a dual-source hydraulic system (high-pressure and low-pressure) is used. The high-pressure source is used for propulsion during tunnel boring machine (TBM) excavation, while the low-pressure source controls the extension and retraction of the propulsion cylinder during assembly, thus achieving synchronous tunneling and assembly. Simultaneously, during synchronous tunneling and assembly, when the cylinder extends to press and tighten the tunnel segments, the pressure of the propulsion cylinder in the synchronous assembly state is reduced due to the connection to the low-pressure source. The assembly pressure, significantly lower than that of the propulsion cylinder in the propulsion state, is used to press and tighten the tunnel segments. During this process, the TBM continues to excavate, avoiding any impact on the TBM's attitude and tunneling direction from the assembly pressure used to tighten the tunnel segments, thereby improving the construction quality of synchronous tunneling and assembly.

[0004] Existing patents for synchronous tunnel boring machine (TBM) propulsion and assembly generally focus on inventions and innovations in the thrust distribution of the propulsion system, achieving segment assembly during propulsion by adjusting the thrust distribution through programming. The challenge that synchronous TBM propulsion and assembly needs to solve is that the thrust of the TBM must come from the already assembled segments, without interfering with the segment assembly during propulsion. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to overcome the shortcomings of the prior art and provide a method for synchronously advancing and assembling a tunnel boring machine and synchronously pushing and assembling construction. By providing a thrust transmission device on the tunnel boring machine, the thrust required by the tunnel boring machine is transmitted from the front end face of the already assembled ring of segments to the propulsion cylinder, without affecting the segment assembly machine's assembly of segments.

[0006] The objective of this invention is achieved through the following technical solution:

[0007] A synchronous propulsion and assembly tunnel boring machine (TBM) includes a cutterhead, a main drive, a front shield, a middle shield, a tail shield, and a personnel gate. The cutterhead is connected to the main drive. The front shield, middle shield, and tail shield are arranged sequentially behind the cutterhead, and the personnel gate is also located behind the cutterhead. The machine also includes propulsion cylinders, a thrust transmission device, a segment assembly machine, and an excavation face balancing device. The propulsion cylinders are located behind the cutterhead and connected to the thrust transmission device. The segment assembly machine is located at the thrust transmission device.

[0008] The thrust transmission device includes a first force transmission ring, an assembled oil cylinder, a load-bearing block, a first hydraulic cylinder, and a second force transmission ring. One end of the assembled oil cylinder is fixed to the first force transmission ring, the first force transmission ring is connected to the second force transmission ring, the second force transmission ring is used to fix the first hydraulic cylinder, the end of the first hydraulic cylinder is fixed to the load-bearing block, and an interval space is provided between the load-bearing block and the assembled oil cylinder.

[0009] The excavation face balancing device includes a second hydraulic cylinder, a third force transmission column, a third hydraulic cylinder, and a holding mechanism. The holding mechanism is located at the end of the second hydraulic cylinder. The second hydraulic cylinder is mounted on the third force transmission column, and the side of the third force transmission column is connected to the end of the third hydraulic cylinder.

[0010] As a preferred embodiment, a connecting structure is provided on the front or middle shield, and the propulsion cylinder is mounted on the connecting structure. Alternatively, a cross-shaped beam is provided inside the middle shield, and a longitudinal beam is provided at the rear of the cross-shaped beam, with three hydraulic cylinders fixed on the beam.

[0011] As a preferred method, the propulsion cylinders are located inside the front and middle shields and pass through the cross beams.

[0012] As a preferred embodiment, the force transmission column three is provided with an installation cavity, and the hydraulic cylinder two is fixed at the bottom of the installation cavity.

[0013] As a preferred embodiment, the retaining mechanism includes a vacuum suction cup, a suction cup seal, and an anti-shear column. The vacuum suction cup is fixed to the end of the second hydraulic cylinder, and the vacuum suction cup is equipped with a suction cup seal and an anti-shear column.

[0014] As a preferred embodiment, the shear-resistant column is fixed to the vacuum suction cup, and the shear-resistant column is located in the middle of the working surface of the vacuum suction cup. As a preferred embodiment, a force transmission column and an intermediate column are provided between force transmission ring one and force transmission ring two, with force transmission ring one fixed to force transmission column one and the intermediate column located between force transmission column one and force transmission ring two.

[0015] A synchronous pushing and assembling construction method, based on the aforementioned synchronous pushing and assembling shield tunneling machine; includes the following:

[0016] Steps for initiating synchronous tunnel boring machine (TBM) propulsion and assembly:

[0017] The main drive drives the cutter head to rotate and cut the soil; the propulsion cylinder applies thrust, which is transmitted to the front end of the assembled segment through the thrust transmission device; at the same time, the segment assembler assembles the segments to be assembled within the interval space of the thrust transmission device, completing the assembly of one ring of segments.

[0018] Preparation steps for the forward movement of the segment connection and thrust transmission device: When the shield tunnel has excavated one ring of segment length and the segment to be assembled is completed, stop the advance; start the excavation face balancing device, depressurize the advance cylinder to the level of the balancing force of the excavation face; retract the hydraulic cylinder to make the load-bearing block separate from the front end face of the assembled segment;

[0019] Inter-ring connection steps for segments: All assembly cylinders extend synchronously, pushing the segments to be assembled backward; guide rods are inserted into the tapered hole one of the segments to be assembled and the tapered hole two of the assembled segments to achieve precise alignment; the segments to be assembled and the assembled segments are fastened together with inter-ring segment bolts.

[0020] The thrust transmission device moves forward in the following steps: The thrust transmission device moves forward one ring of tunnel segment; as soon as the hydraulic cylinder extends, the propulsion cylinder applies force, which is transmitted through the thrust transmission device to make the bearing block press against the front end face of the assembled tunnel segment.

[0021] Resume synchronous pushing and assembling steps: shut down the excavation face balancing device; pressurize the propulsion cylinder to the target thrust, and continue synchronously pushing and assembling the next ring of segments.

[0022] As a preferred method, the working process of the excavation face balancing device includes:

[0023] Hydraulic cylinder three extends to adjust the longitudinal position of the vacuum suction cup; fine-tuning cylinder adjusts the rotational position of the vacuum suction cup to align it with the inner surface of the assembled segment; hydraulic cylinder two extends and applies pressure to seal and press the suction cup tightly against the assembled segment, while the anti-shear column is inserted into the positioning hole; the vacuum suction cup is activated, and the thrust of the advancing cylinder is reduced to the equilibrium force at the excavation face and then the thrust continues to decrease, while hydraulic cylinder three increases the equivalent force, until the thrust of the advancing cylinder is reduced to 0, and the force of hydraulic cylinder three is equal to the equilibrium force at the excavation face, thus completing the conversion of the equilibrium force at the excavation face.

[0024] As a preferred method, the following guiding alignment operation is performed during the connection of the segments:

[0025] Pre-positioning of guide rods: guide rods are pre-installed in the conical holes of the assembled segments, so that the conical head of the guide rod protrudes from the front end face of the assembled segments; when assembling the segments, the segments need to be moved back so that part of the conical head of the guide rod enters the conical hole of the segment to be assembled, thus forming a pre-positioning.

[0026] Synchronous backward alignment: All assembly cylinders extend synchronously at a speed of 0.5-1.0 mm / s, pushing the entire ring of the segment to be assembled backward; the conical head of the guide rod continues to be inserted into the conical hole of the segment to be assembled, and the radial deviation is accurately aligned through the self-correction of the conical surface;

[0027] Eliminating the gap between rings: To continue moving backward, the segments need to be assembled until the rear end face of the segment is in contact with the front end face of the assembled segment;

[0028] Rapid bolt tightening: With the segments fully in contact, all inter-ring segment bolts are tightened simultaneously using an automatic wrench.

[0029] This invention has at least the following beneficial effects: A thrust transmission device is installed, with its front end connected to the propulsion cylinder and its rear end connected to the front face of the pre-assembled ring segment. The propulsion force of the propulsion cylinder is directly transmitted to the front face of the pre-assembled ring segment via the thrust transmission device and then transmitted backward. The final thrust is provided by the friction between the pre-assembled ring segment and the solidified synchronous grout. The segment assembly machine is located at the thrust transmission device and completes the assembly of one ring of segments during the shield tunneling process. After the shield tunneling and segment assembly of one ring are completed, the excavation face balancing device is used to connect the segments to be assembled into a ring with the pre-assembled ring segments. The thrust transmission device moves forward one ring distance and continues the propulsion and segment assembly process, repeating the cycle to achieve synchronous shield tunneling and assembly, thus improving the shield tunneling construction progress. Attached Figure Description

[0030] To reveal the technical details of the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings involved in the embodiments will be briefly described below. It should be emphasized that these drawings only present several embodiments of the present invention and should not be considered as defining the scope of the invention. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can still be derived based on these drawings without inventive effort.

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the main unit during the synchronous tunnel boring machine assembly process;

[0032] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the shield tunneling machine before synchronous shield-laying;

[0033] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of a thrust transmission device;

[0034] Figure 4 Detailed drawing of the rear-end components of the thrust transmission device;

[0035] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the balancing device at the excavation face.

[0036] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the guidance of the tunnel segments during assembly.

[0037] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the connection between the ring and the ring segment.

[0038] In the diagram, 1-Cutterhead, 2-Front shield, 3-Propulsion cylinder, 4-Main drive, 5-Middle shield, 6-Personnel brake, 7-Match beam, 8-Main beam, 9-Thrust transmission device, 10-Segment assembler, 11-Segment to be assembled, 12-Shield tail, 13-Shield tail sealing brush, 14-Assembled segment, 15-Excavation face balancing device, 16-Screw conveyor, 17-Rear gate, 18-Belt, 101-Force transmission ring one, 102-Assembly Hydraulic cylinder, 103-Force transmission column one, 104-Bearing block, 105-Hydraulic cylinder one, 106-Force transmission column two, 107-Intermediate column, 108-Force transmission ring two, 201-Vacuum suction cup, 202-Suction cup seal, 203-Shear resistance column, 204-Fine adjustment cylinder, 205-Hydraulic cylinder two, 206-Force transmission column three, 207-Hydraulic cylinder three, 301-Conical hole one, 302-Guide rod, 303-Conical hole two. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The technical solution of the present invention will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited to the following description.

[0040] In the following description, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the specific forms shown herein. Rather, it should be understood to encompass various variations, equivalents, and / or alternatives to the embodiments of the present disclosure. In illustrating the drawings, the same reference numerals will be used to denote similar components.

[0041] In this disclosure, terminology is used to describe specific embodiments and does not constitute a limitation thereof. In this context, the use of the singular form also encompasses the plural form, unless otherwise expressly stated herein. In the course of description, terms such as “comprising” or “having” are intended to indicate the presence of features, quantities, steps, operations, structural components, parts, or combinations thereof, and do not preclude the possibility or addition of one or more other features, quantities, steps, operations, structural components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0042] It should be clarified that while the following description provides detailed specific information to aid in a comprehensive understanding of the exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the exemplary embodiments can be implemented even without these specific details. For example, the system may be illustrated using block diagrams to avoid excessive detail that could obscure the clarity of the example. In other cases, to maintain the clarity of the example, unnecessary details of well-known processes, structures, and techniques may be omitted.

[0043] like Figure 1As shown, a synchronous propulsion and assembly tunnel boring machine includes a cutterhead 1, a main drive 4, a front shield 2, a middle shield 5, a tail shield 12, and a personnel gate 6. The cutterhead 1 is connected to the main drive 4. The front shield 2, the middle shield 5, and the tail shield 12 are arranged sequentially behind the cutterhead 1. The personnel gate 6 is also located behind the cutterhead 1. The machine also includes a propulsion cylinder 3, a thrust transmission device 9, a segment assembly machine 10, and an excavation face balancing device 15. The propulsion cylinder 3 is located behind the cutterhead 1 and connected to the thrust transmission device 9. The segment assembly machine 10 is located at the thrust transmission device 9.

[0044] The thrust transmission device 9 includes a first transmission ring 101, an assembly cylinder 102, a load-bearing block 104, a first hydraulic cylinder 105, and a second transmission ring 108. One end of the assembly cylinder 102 is fixed to the first transmission ring 101. The first transmission ring 101 is connected to the second transmission ring 108. The second transmission ring 108 is used to fix the first hydraulic cylinder 105. The end of the first hydraulic cylinder 105 is fixed to the load-bearing block 104. A gap space is provided between the load-bearing block 104 and the assembly cylinder 102.

[0045] The excavation face balancing device 15 includes hydraulic cylinder 205, force transmission column 206, hydraulic cylinder 207, and a holding mechanism (see...). Figure 5 The retaining mechanism is located at the end of the hydraulic cylinder 205, which is mounted on the force transmission column 206. The side of the force transmission column 206 is connected to the end of the hydraulic cylinder 207.

[0046] During operation, the synchronous propulsion and assembly tunnel boring machine (TBM) first rotates the cutterhead 1 driven by the main drive 4, which cuts the soil into the soil chamber. The propulsion cylinder 3 then activates, transmitting thrust to the front face of the assembled tunnel segment 14 via the thrust transmission device 9, propelling the entire TBM forward. During propulsion, the space between the support block 104 and the assembly cylinder 102 provides sufficient operating space for segment assembly. At this point, the segment assembly machine 10 activates, sequentially assembling multiple prefabricated tunnel segments into the tail section of the shield, completing the propulsion and assembly of one ring of tunnel segments.

[0047] This synchronous propulsion and assembly tunnel boring machine (TBM) achieves smooth advancement through the coordinated action of the propulsion cylinder 3 and the thrust transmission device 9. The design of the excavation face balancing device 15 effectively solves the balance problem of the excavation face when connecting the segments to be assembled 11 with the already assembled segments 14 and when the thrust transmission device 9 moves forward, preventing soil collapse at the excavation face and ensuring construction safety. The assembly cylinder 102 and the segment assembly machine 10 enable the assembly of the segments. The space between the load-bearing block 104 and the assembly cylinder 102 provides sufficient operating space for segment assembly, facilitating precise positioning and assembly of the segments.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, the propulsion cylinder 3 is located inside the front shield 2 and the middle shield 5 and passes through the cross beam 7. The thrust of the propulsion cylinder 3 acts on the load-bearing ring 101 and is transmitted to the front end face of the assembled tunnel segment 14 via the thrust transmission device 9. The number of propulsion cylinders 3 is not limited by the tunnel segment assembly point, as long as it can meet the requirements of shield turning and maximum thrust.

[0049] In a preferred embodiment, a cross beam 7 is provided inside the central shield 5, and a longitudinal beam 8 is provided at the rear of the cross beam 7. A hydraulic cylinder 207 is fixed on the beam 8. The cross beam 7 and the longitudinal beam 8 provided inside the central shield 5 can enhance the stability and load-bearing capacity of the structure, and the fixed hydraulic cylinder 207 can provide force transmission for the excavation face balancing device 15. The excavation face balancing force is transmitted through the shield machine, the beam 8, the hydraulic cylinder 207, the force transmission column 206, and the vacuum suction cup 201, and is finally transmitted to the shear force of the shear column 203 and the friction force of the vacuum suction cup 201, ensuring the balance of the excavation face.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the force transmission column 3 206 is provided with a mounting cavity, and the hydraulic cylinder 205 is fixed to the bottom of the mounting cavity. By providing a mounting cavity on the force transmission column 3 206, the hydraulic cylinder 205 can be securely fixed in the appropriate position, ensuring that the vacuum suction cup 201 extends and retracts accurately.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the holding mechanism includes a vacuum suction cup 201, a suction cup seal 202, and an anti-shear column 203. The vacuum suction cup 201 is fixed to the end of the hydraulic cylinder 205, and the vacuum suction cup 201 is provided with the suction cup seal 202 and the anti-shear column 203. The holding mechanism ensures stability during operation, the suction cup seal 202 prevents air leakage, and the anti-shear column 203 enhances the suction cup's shear resistance and improves the balancing force provided by the holding mechanism at the excavation face.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the shear-resistant column 203 is fixed to the vacuum suction cup 201, and the shear-resistant column 203 is disposed in the middle of the working surface of the vacuum suction cup 201. Fixing the shear-resistant column 203 in the middle of the working surface of the vacuum suction cup 201 can more effectively resist the shear force generated during operation, thereby improving the stability of the holding mechanism and the reliability of the operation.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, a force-transmitting column 103 and an intermediate column 107 are disposed between force-transmitting ring 101 and force-transmitting ring 208. Force-transmitting ring 101 and force-transmitting column 103 are fixed, and the intermediate column 107 is disposed between force-transmitting column 103 and force-transmitting ring 208. By setting force-transmitting column 103 and intermediate column 107, force can be effectively transmitted, ensuring that the force is evenly distributed between force-transmitting ring 101 and force-transmitting ring 208. This structure can ensure the distance of the space between the rings, improving the stability and load-bearing capacity of the overall structure.

[0054] A synchronous pushing and assembling construction method, based on the aforementioned synchronous pushing and assembling shield tunneling machine; includes the following:

[0055] Steps for initiating synchronous tunnel boring machine (TBM) propulsion and assembly:

[0056] The main drive 4 drives the cutter head 1 to rotate and cut the soil; the propulsion cylinder 3 applies thrust, which is transmitted to the front end face of the assembled segment 14 through the thrust transmission device 9; at the same time, the segment assembly machine 10 assembles the segment 11 to be assembled in the interval space of the thrust transmission device 9, and completes the assembly of one ring of segments.

[0057] Preparation steps for the forward movement of the segment connection and thrust transmission device 9: When the shield tunnel has excavated one ring of segment length and the segment 11 to be assembled is completed, stop the advance; start the excavation face balancing device 15, depressurize the advance cylinder 3 to the value of the balancing force at the excavation face; retract the hydraulic cylinder 105, so that the load-bearing block 104 is separated from the front end face of the assembled segment 14.

[0058] Inter-ring connection steps: All assembly cylinders 102 extend synchronously, pushing the segment 11 to be assembled to move backward; guide rods 302 are inserted into the tapered hole 301 of the segment 11 to be assembled and the tapered hole 303 of the assembled segment 14 to achieve precise alignment; the segment 11 to be assembled and the assembled segment 14 are fastened together with inter-ring bolts.

[0059] The forward movement steps of the thrust transmission device 9 are as follows: the thrust transmission device 9 moves forward one ring segment distance; the hydraulic cylinder 105 extends, the propulsion cylinder 3 applies force, and the force is transmitted through the thrust transmission device 9, so that the bearing block 104 presses against the front end face of the new assembled segment 14.

[0060] Resume synchronous pushing and assembling steps: shut down the excavation face balancing device 15, the vacuum suction cup 201 stops working and retracts; pressurize the propulsion cylinder 3 to the target thrust, and continue synchronously pushing and assembling the next ring segment.

[0061] The synchronous thrust-assembly construction method achieves simultaneous tunneling and assembly by simultaneously advancing and assembling the tunnel boring machine (TBM), with the main drive 4 driving the cutterhead 1 to rotate and cut the soil, the propulsion cylinder 3 applying thrust, and the segment assembly machine 10 assembling the segments 11 to be assembled within the interval space of the thrust transmission device 9. This collaborative operation significantly shortens the construction cycle and improves overall construction efficiency. In particular, the design of the thrust transmission device 9 ensures that the thrust is stably and evenly transmitted to the front face of the assembled segments 14, guaranteeing the continuity and stability of the construction process.

[0062] Utilizing the precise control of the thrust transmission device 9, the assembly cylinder 102 extends to push the segment 11 to be assembled backward, and precise alignment is achieved by inserting the guide rod 302 into the conical hole, ensuring accurate connection between the segment rings. Simultaneously, the tightening connection of the inter-ring bolts (existing technology, not described in detail) further enhances the connection strength between the segment rings and the stability of the tunnel. This precise construction method guarantees construction quality and reduces subsequent maintenance costs.

[0063] The excavation face balancing device 15 plays a crucial role in the connection between the segment rings and the forward movement of the thrust transmission device 9. By activating the excavation face balancing device 15, the conversion between the thrust of the hydraulic cylinder 3 and the forward force of the excavation face balancing device 15 is effectively avoided, preventing construction safety issues caused by insufficient excavation face balancing pressure. Furthermore, the synergistic effect of the hydraulic cylinders ensures a smooth transition of the load-bearing block 104 when it detaches from the front end face of the segment, further improving construction safety.

[0064] In traditional tunnel boring machines (TBMs), the propulsion cylinder 3 directly acts on the front face of the assembled tunnel segments 14 to provide the thrust required for tunnel advancement during excavation. However, this method has a significant problem: because the propulsion and segment assembly processes must be carried out alternately, construction efficiency is limited. Specifically, when the propulsion cylinder 3 is propelling the TBM forward, segment assembly cannot be performed simultaneously; conversely, when segment assembly is being performed, the propulsion cylinder 3 needs to stop, which greatly reduces the construction progress. The main reason for introducing the thrust transmission device 9 is to achieve synchronous TBM propulsion and segment assembly, thereby improving construction efficiency.

[0065] The thrust transmission device 9 allows the shield tunneling and segment assembly processes to be carried out relatively independently. By smoothly transmitting the force of the propulsion cylinder 3 to the front face of the assembled segment 14 via the thrust transmission device 9, without directly affecting the operation of the segment assembler 10 during the assembly process, true synchronous operation of propulsion and assembly is achieved. The thrust transmission device 9 ensures that the force is more evenly distributed across the entire front face of the assembled segment 14, rather than concentrated at a few specific points. This uniform pressure distribution helps reduce local stress concentration problems caused to individual segments, improving the safety and stability of the structure. Since the thrust transmission device 9 can provide continuous and stable thrust support without affecting segment assembly, it helps to better control the attitude of the shield machine and ensure the quality of tunnel formation. In some special cases (such as encountering high-resistance geological conditions), directly relying on the propulsion cylinder 3 to apply huge pressure may damage the thrust transmission device 9. In this case, propulsion and assembly can be carried out alternately, with the thrust directly transmitted through the segment 11 to be assembled, avoiding the risks of directly applying excessive pressure to the thrust transmission device 9. In a preferred embodiment, the working process of the excavation face balancing device 15 includes:

[0066] Hydraulic cylinder 207 extends to adjust the longitudinal position of vacuum chuck 201; fine-tuning cylinder 204 adjusts the rotational position of vacuum chuck 201 to align it with the inner surface of the assembled segment 14; hydraulic cylinder 205 extends and applies pressure to press chuck seal 202 against the inner surface of the assembled segment 14, while shear column 203 is inserted into the positioning hole; vacuum chuck 201 is activated, and the thrust of advance cylinder 3 is reduced to the excavation face balance force and then the thrust is further reduced, while hydraulic cylinder 207 increases the equivalent force, until the thrust of advance cylinder 3 is reduced to 0, and the force of hydraulic cylinder 207 is equal to the excavation face balance force, thus completing the conversion of the excavation face balance force.

[0067] Hydraulic cylinder 207 extends to adjust the longitudinal position of vacuum chuck 201, ensuring accurate alignment with the target position. Next, fine-tuning cylinder 204 precisely adjusts the rotational position of vacuum chuck 201, aligning it perfectly with the inner surface of the assembled tube segment 14 to ensure a tight seal. Then, hydraulic cylinder 205 extends and applies pressure, causing vacuum chuck 201 to tightly seal against the assembled tube segment 14. Simultaneously, anti-shear column 203 is inserted into the positioning hole, further enhancing the stability and accuracy of the device. Subsequently, the vacuum chuck 201 device (connected to a vacuum pump) is activated to remove air between vacuum chuck 201 and the inner surface of the assembled tube segment 14 (the vacuum port is located on vacuum chuck 201). At this point, the thrust of the propulsion cylinder 3 is reduced to the equilibrium force of the excavation face and then continues to decrease. At the same time, the hydraulic cylinder 207 increases the equivalent force. When the thrust of the propulsion cylinder 3 is reduced to 0, the force of the hydraulic cylinder 207 and the equilibrium force of the excavation face reach a balanced state (maintained), thus completing the conversion of the equilibrium force of the excavation face.

[0068] In a preferred embodiment, the following guiding alignment operation is performed during the inter-ring connection of segments:

[0069] Guide rod 302 pre-positioning: A guide rod is pre-installed in the conical hole 303 of the assembled tube segment 14 so that the conical head of the guide rod 302 protrudes from the front end face of the assembled tube segment 14; when the tube segment is assembled, the tube segment 11 to be assembled needs to be moved back so that part of the conical head of the guide rod 302 enters the conical hole 301 of the tube segment 11 to be assembled, thus forming a pre-positioning;

[0070] Synchronous backward alignment: All assembly cylinders 102 extend synchronously at a speed of 0.5-1.0 mm / s, pushing the entire ring of the tube segment 11 to be assembled backward; the conical head of the guide rod 302 continues to be inserted into the conical hole 301 of the tube segment 11 to be assembled, and the radial deviation is accurately aligned through the self-correction of the conical surface;

[0071] Elimination of inter-ring gap: Continue to move backward and assemble segment 11 until its rear end face is in contact with the front end face of the assembled segment 14;

[0072] Rapid bolt tightening: With the segments fully in contact, all inter-ring bolts are tightened simultaneously using an automatic wrench.

[0073] During the inter-ring connection of tube segments, the above-mentioned guiding and alignment operation is performed. The pre-positioning step of the guide rod 302 ensures that the guide rod 302 is accurately installed in the tapered hole of the assembled tube segment 14. At the same time, during the assembly of the tube segments, a portion of the front end of the guide rod 302 has already entered the tapered hole of the tube segment 11 to be assembled, providing precise guidance for subsequent alignment. Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, both ends of the guide rod 302 are provided with tapered ends, and corresponding tapered holes 301 and 303 are respectively provided on the tube segment 11 to be assembled and the assembled tube segment 14. The synchronous backward movement and alignment step achieves the smooth backward movement of the tube segment 11 to be assembled through the synchronous extension of all the assembly cylinders 102. The tapered head of the guide rod 302 smoothly inserts into the tapered hole of the tube segment 11 to be assembled, and the radial deviation is quickly and accurately eliminated by utilizing the self-correcting function of the tapered surface, ensuring the precise alignment between the tube segments. This step significantly improves the connection efficiency and reduces the difficulty of operation.

[0074] The inter-ring gap elimination step involves continuing to move the segment 11 to be assembled until it is completely fitted with the assembled segment 14, effectively eliminating the inter-ring gap and enhancing the stability and sealing of the segment connection. This step is of great significance for improving the overall strength and durability of the tunnel structure. The rapid bolt tightening step, with the segments completely fitted, simultaneously tightens all inter-ring bolts using an automatic wrench, ensuring the firmness and reliability of the connection. This step further enhances the stability and safety of the segment connection, providing a strong guarantee for the long-term safe operation of the tunnel.

[0075] In one embodiment, the tunnel boring machine (TBM) is simultaneously advanced and assembled. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the synchronous propulsion and assembly shield tunneling machine consists of components such as cutterhead 1, main drive 4, front shield 2, middle shield 5, shield tail 12, personnel gate 6, propulsion cylinder 3, thrust transmission device 9, segment assembly machine 10, excavation face balancing device 15, screw conveyor 16, belt 18 (located below the gate 17 behind the screw conveyor 16), shield tail sealing brush 13, and rear supporting trolley.

[0076] The shield tunneling synchronous propulsion and assembly construction process is as follows: Electric or hydraulic drive drives the cutterhead 1 to rotate left or right via the main drive 4. Different thrusts are applied to the propulsion cylinders 3 at different positions, which are then transmitted to the front face of the assembled segment 14 via the thrust transmission device 9, achieving the propulsion and turning of the shield. Simultaneously, the segment assembly machine 10 assembles each segment 11 to be assembled sequentially within the tail 12. When the shield has excavated one ring of segments and the required segment 11 has been assembled, propulsion stops, and the excavation face balancing device 15 is activated. The required segment 11 and the assembled segment 14 within the tail 12 are connected ring to ring by segment bolts. Then, the propulsion cylinders 3 move the thrust transmission device 9 forward one ring of segments, causing it to press against the front face of the assembled segment 14 (e.g., ...). Figure 2 Finally, the excavation face balancing device 15 is shut down, and the shield tunneling synchronous advance and assembly continue, repeating the process to achieve synchronous advance and assembly of the shield tunneling.

[0077] The composition and working principle of the thrust transmission device 9. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the thrust transmission device 9 consists of components such as a first transmission ring 101, an assembled hydraulic cylinder 102, a first transmission column 103, an intermediate column 107, a second transmission ring 108, a second transmission column 106, a first hydraulic cylinder 105, and a load-bearing block 104. These components are connected together by welding or bolting. The device is required to transmit a thrust value sufficient for normal propulsion, and its stiffness and strength must meet the specifications. Figure 4 As shown, the rear component load-bearing block 104 of the thrust transmission device 9 is composed of multiple blocks to achieve the effect of uniform force on the front face of the assembled segment 14. The lower part without load-bearing block 104 is mainly used for the transportation of the segment 11 to be assembled and for the passage of personnel and equipment.

[0078] The working principle of the thrust transmission device 9 is as follows: When the shield tunneling machine advances, the force of the propulsion cylinder 3 acts on the force transmission ring 101, and then acts on the front end face of the assembled segment 14 through the force transmission column 103, the intermediate column 107, the force transmission ring 108, the force transmission column 106, and the support block 104. Before the shield tunneling machine advances, the hydraulic cylinder 105 extends, extending the support block 104 to the front end face of the assembled segment 14, and the propulsion cylinder 3 extends to support it on the front end face of the assembled segment 14.

[0079] The assembly cylinders 102 are fixed behind the force transmission ring 101 and are arranged in a circular and uniform manner, with the number corresponding to the assembly points of the tunnel segments. For example, a conventional tunnel segment shield machine with an inner diameter of 5.4m and an outer diameter of 6m requires 10 sets of assembly cylinders 102 to be arranged in a 36-degree angle. The tunnel segments 11 to be assembled are assembled into a ring using the space between the force transmission column 103 and the force transmission column 2 106 and outside the intermediate column 107.

[0080] After the tunnel boring machine (TBM) advances one ring and completes the assembly of the tunnel segment 11, the excavation face balancing device 15 is activated. The thrust cylinder 3 is depressurized, the hydraulic cylinder 105 retracts, and the load-bearing block 104 retracts into the inner surface of the tunnel segment to be assembled. All assembly cylinders 102 extend, pushing the entire ring of the tunnel segment 11 to be assembled backward, connecting it with the already assembled tunnel segment 14, and tightening all rings and ring bolts.

[0081] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, tapered holes 301 and 303 are designed on the rear end face of the segment to be assembled and the front end face of the segment already assembled 14, respectively. When assembling the segments, the guide rod 302 is inserted into the two tapered holes, and the segment to be assembled 11 is pushed to move backward in a whole ring so that it can be accurately aligned with the segment already assembled 14, and the segment bolts can be inserted normally.

[0082] Design considerations for thrust transmission device 9:

[0083] (1) The net distance between the assembly cylinder 102 and the bearing block 104 must meet the requirements of the segment assembly machine 10 for assembling segments. In particular, the capping block needs to be pushed outward radially and then moved backward longitudinally. The net distance generally needs to exceed the length of one ring segment by more than 300mm.

[0084] (2) The extension length of the assembly cylinder 102 must meet the requirements, that is, when the assembly segment 11 is moved backward in a whole ring, the net distance between the assembly cylinder 102 and the front end face of the assembled segment 14 must be less than the length of one ring segment.

[0085] (3) The position of the intermediate column 107 should avoid the main beam 8, the screw conveyor 16, the segment assembly machine 10 and the space required for assembling the segments.

[0086] (4) When designing the thrust transmission device 9, the passage of personnel and materials should be considered. For example, the front part should be designed as multiple force transmission columns 103 instead of a closed force transmission ring, and the lower part of the rear part should be designed without a load-bearing block 104, etc.

[0087] Composition and working principle of excavation face balancing device 15

[0088] During the retraction of the load-bearing block 104 and the backward movement of the segment 11 to be assembled, there is no support between the shield propulsion cylinder 3 and the segment. If there is no force pressing against the shield machine at this time, the shield machine will move backward, the soil chamber pressure will decrease, the balance of the shield excavation face will be broken, and there is a safety risk. Therefore, the excavation face balancing device 15 was designed.

[0089] The excavation face balancing device 15 consists of a vacuum suction cup 201, a suction cup seal 202, a shear-resistant column 203, a fine-tuning cylinder 204, a second hydraulic cylinder 205, a third force transmission column 206, and a third hydraulic cylinder 207. The rodless chamber of the third hydraulic cylinder 207 is fixed to the main beam 8, and the rod chamber is connected to the third force transmission column 206.

[0090] Working principle of the excavation face balancing device 15: After the shield tunnel advances synchronously for one ring and the segment is assembled for one ring, the thrust of the thrust cylinder 3 is depressurized until the force is equal to the balancing force of the excavation face. The hydraulic cylinder 207 is extended or retracted (to adjust the longitudinal position of the vacuum chuck 201), and the fine-tuning cylinder 204 is extended or retracted (to adjust the rotation position of the vacuum chuck 201). The vacuum chuck 201 is aligned with the inner surface of the assembled segment 14. The hydraulic cylinder 205 is extended and a certain force is applied. The chuck seal 202 is pressed against the inner surface of the assembled segment 14. At the same time, the shear column 203 extends into the positioning hole of the assembled segment 14. The vacuum suction cup 201 is activated, and then the hydraulic cylinder 3 207 continues to extend to increase the force. At the same time, the force of the push cylinder 3 is reduced. Finally, the thrust of the push cylinder 3 is reduced to 0, and the force of the hydraulic cylinder 3 207 is equal to the force of the excavation face balance. At this point, the conversion of the force of the excavation face balance is completed (the force transmitted from the push cylinder 3 to the bearing block 104 acting on the front end face of the assembled segment 14 is converted into the friction force of the vacuum suction cup 201 and the shear force of the shear column 203 and transmitted to the assembled segment 14). Then, the thrust transmission device 9 connects the segment 11 to be assembled and the segment 14 already assembled. The thrust transmission device 9 moves forward by one ring length of segment and supports the bearing block 104 on the front end face of the segment 11 to be assembled. After the thrust cylinder 3 increases the thrust to reach the balance force of the excavation face, the vacuum suction cup 201 is closed, the hydraulic cylinder 205 retracts, the vacuum suction cup 201 is removed from the inner surface of the segment 14 already assembled, and the shield continues to advance and assemble synchronously.

[0091] Advantages and precautions of simultaneous advancement and assembly of tunnel boring machines.

[0092] (1) By designing the thrust transmission device 9, the propulsion and assembly are independent of each other, thus realizing the synchronous propulsion and assembly of the shield tunnel.

[0093] (2) The force exerted by the propulsion cylinder 3 on the assembled tunnel segment 14 via the thrust transmission device 9 is stable and balanced, making it easy to control the shield attitude and ensuring good stress on the tunnel segment.

[0094] (3) The design bearing capacity of the thrust transmission device 9 only needs to be higher than the normal thrust of the shield. In special cases (such as when the shield is encased and the required thrust is particularly high), the segments to be assembled 11 can be assembled first and connected to the already assembled segments 14 before advancing. The high thrust is directly applied to the front end face of the segments to be assembled 11 through the thrust cylinder 3, the force transmission ring 101, and the assembly cylinder 102. In this way, it is the original tunneling and assembly cycle, and the thrust transmission device 9 does not need to bear a large transmission force.

[0095] (4) The load-bearing block 104 in the thrust transmission device 9 must be at least one on each segment 11 to be assembled. This way, when assembling the segment 11, each block has an equal net distance to the assembled segment 14, so that the assembly of one ring of segment 11 to be assembled can be completed during the shield tunneling process.

[0096] (5) The propulsion cylinder 3 is composed of multiple sets, one of which is connected to the front end face of the force transmission ring 101 on the thrust transmission device 9, while the other propulsion cylinders 3 do not need to be connected. At the same time, the number of propulsion cylinders 3 is designed to meet the requirements of shield turning and total propulsion force.

[0097] (6) The design of the excavation face balancing device 15 effectively solved the problem of balancing the shield excavation face when the segment 11 needs to be moved backward and the thrust transmission device 9 needs to be moved forward after the shield advance and assembly is completed.

[0098] (7) There may be one or more sets of excavation face balancing devices 15 installed on the tunnel boring machine. The main principle is to balance the force of the excavation face. The devices are installed at positions above 3 or 9 o'clock.

[0099] (8) To ensure the synchronous advancement and assembly efficiency of the shield tunneling machine, it is recommended that the earth pressure balance shield tunneling machine adopt a continuous belt conveyor for slag removal.

[0100] In one embodiment, the principle and implementation method of adjusting the rotation position of the vacuum suction cup 201 by the fine-tuning cylinder 204 are as follows:

[0101] In the excavation face balancing device 15, the vacuum suction cup 201 needs to be tightly fitted to the arc-shaped inner surface of the assembled segment 14. Due to installation errors or deformation of the segments, the suction cup needs to have multi-degree-of-freedom adjustment capabilities to ensure that the suction cup seal 202 uniformly presses against the curved surface to form an effective seal.

[0102] A fine-tuning cylinder 204 is installed between the vacuum suction cup 201 and the third force transmission column 206, with ball joints connecting both ends. The tilt angle of the vacuum suction cup 201 can be changed by extending or shortening the fine-tuning cylinder 204. One or at least two fine-tuning cylinders 204 can be used. A connecting plate can be installed at the ball joint (movable connection) to facilitate installation. For example, a connecting plate can be fixed to the back of the vacuum suction cup 201, with a connecting column on the connecting plate and a rotatable ball head on the connecting column, which connects to the fine-tuning cylinder 204. Similarly, a connecting plate can be installed on the third force transmission column 206, with a connecting column on the connecting plate and a rotatable ball head on the connecting column, which connects to the fine-tuning cylinder 204. Depending on the actual situation, as long as both ends of the fine-tuning cylinder 204 are rotatably connected, it is sufficient to easily adjust the tilt angle of the vacuum suction cup 201. The third hydraulic cylinder 207 controls the longitudinal displacement of the vacuum suction cup 201 (along the longitudinal direction of the shield). Coordinated action: Hydraulic cylinder 207 pushes the force transmission column 206 to move longitudinally, coarsely adjusting the position of the suction cup; fine adjustment cylinder 204 changes the tilt angle of the suction cup by extending and retracting, achieving fine rotational alignment.

[0103] In another embodiment, the piston rod of the fine-tuning cylinder 204 is connected to the base of the vacuum suction cup 201 via a universal joint, and the cylinder body of the fine-tuning cylinder 204 is mounted on the force transmission column 206 (preferably rotatably connected). When the cylinder extends or retracts, it pushes the suction cup base to rotate about the ball joint fulcrum (see...). Figure 5 Adjust the angle between the suction cup normal and the curved surface of the tube segment.

[0104] In practice, hydraulic cylinder 207 extends / retracts, bringing vacuum chuck 201 close to the inner wall of the tube segment to a predetermined distance (approximately 10-20mm). Fine-tuning cylinder 204 extends and retracts, aligning vacuum chuck 201 with the tube segment. After the hydraulic cylinder extends and vacuum chuck 201 contacts the tube segment, hydraulic cylinder 205 applies pressure, causing vacuum chuck 201 to adhere to the inner surface of the assembled tube segment 14. Furthermore, a pressure sensor can be installed on vacuum chuck 201 to verify the uniformity of contact.

[0105] Although preferred embodiments of the invention have been described, those skilled in the art, upon learning the basic inventive concept, can make other changes and modifications to these embodiments. Therefore, the appended claims are intended to be interpreted as including the preferred embodiments as well as all changes and modifications falling within the scope of the invention. The above descriptions are merely preferred embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention. It should be noted that any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the invention should be included within the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

1. A method of simultaneous push-pull construction, characterized by: This is achieved using a synchronous propulsion and assembly tunnel boring machine (TBM). The TBM includes a cutterhead, main drive, front shield, middle shield, tail shield, and personnel gate. The cutterhead is connected to the main drive. The front shield, middle shield, and tail shield are sequentially arranged behind the cutterhead, and the personnel gate is also located behind the cutterhead. It also includes propulsion cylinders, a thrust transmission device, a segment assembly machine, and an excavation face balancing device. The propulsion cylinders are located behind the cutterhead and connected to the thrust transmission device. The segment assembly machine is located at the thrust transmission device. The thrust transmission device includes a first force transmission ring, an assembled oil cylinder, a load-bearing block, a first hydraulic cylinder, and a second load-bearing ring. One end of the assembled oil cylinder is fixed to the first force transmission ring, the first force transmission ring is connected to the second force transmission ring, the second force transmission ring is used to fix the first hydraulic cylinder, the end of the first hydraulic cylinder is fixed to the load-bearing block, and an interval space is provided between the load-bearing block and the assembled oil cylinder. The excavation face balancing device includes a second hydraulic cylinder, a third force transmission column, a third hydraulic cylinder, and a holding mechanism. The holding mechanism is located at the end of the second hydraulic cylinder. The second hydraulic cylinder is mounted on the third force transmission column, and the side of the third force transmission column is connected to the end of the third hydraulic cylinder. The central shield is equipped with a cross beam, and a longitudinal beam is installed at the rear of the cross beam. Three hydraulic cylinders are fixed on the beam. The retaining mechanism includes a vacuum chuck, a chuck seal, and an anti-shear column. The vacuum chuck is fixed to the end of the second hydraulic cylinder, and the vacuum chuck is equipped with a chuck seal and an anti-shear column. The synchronous assembly construction method includes the following: Steps for initiating synchronous tunnel boring machine (TBM) propulsion and assembly: The main drive drives the cutter head to rotate and cut the soil; the propulsion cylinder applies thrust, which is transmitted to the front end of the assembled segment through the thrust transmission device; at the same time, the segment assembler assembles the segments to be assembled within the interval space of the thrust transmission device, completing the assembly of one ring of segments. Preparation steps for segment connection and thrust transmission device forward movement: When the shield tunneling has excavated one ring of segments and the segments to be assembled are completed, stop the advance; start the excavation face balancing device, and after the force of the propulsion cylinder is depressurized to the value of the excavation face balancing force, the excavation face balancing device and the propulsion cylinder complete the conversion of the excavation face balancing force; when the hydraulic cylinder retracts, the load-bearing block is separated from the front end face of the assembled segment; Inter-ring connection steps for segments: All assembly cylinders extend synchronously, pushing the segments to be assembled backward; guide rods are used to guide the insertion into the first tapered hole of the segment to be assembled and the second tapered hole of the assembled segment to achieve precise alignment; the segments to be assembled and the assembled segments are fastened together with inter-ring bolts. The thrust transmission device moves forward in the following steps: The thrust transmission device moves forward one ring of tunnel segment; as soon as the hydraulic cylinder extends, the propulsion cylinder applies force, which is transmitted through the thrust transmission device to make the bearing block press against the front end face of the assembled tunnel segment. Resume synchronous pushing and assembling steps: Turn off the excavation face balancing device; The hydraulic cylinder is pressurized to the target thrust, and the next ring segment is simultaneously advanced and assembled. The working process of the excavation face balancing device includes: Hydraulic cylinder three extends to adjust the longitudinal position of the vacuum suction cup; fine-tuning cylinder adjusts the rotational position of the vacuum suction cup to align it with the inner surface of the assembled segment; hydraulic cylinder two extends and applies pressure to seal and press the suction cup tightly against the assembled segment, while the anti-shear column is inserted into the positioning hole; the vacuum suction cup is activated, and the thrust of the advancing cylinder is reduced to the equilibrium force at the excavation face and then the thrust is further reduced, while hydraulic cylinder three increases the equivalent force, until the thrust of the advancing cylinder is reduced to 0, and the force of hydraulic cylinder three is equal to the equilibrium force at the excavation face, thus completing the conversion of the equilibrium force at the excavation face; During the connection process between the tunnel segments, the following guiding alignment operation is performed: Pre-positioning of guide rods: guide rods are pre-installed in the conical hole two of the assembled tube segments, so that the conical head of the guide rod protrudes from the front end face of the assembled tube segment; when assembling the tube segments, the assembled tube segments need to be moved back so that part of the conical head of the guide rod enters the conical hole one of the tube segment to be assembled, thus forming a pre-positioning. Synchronous backward alignment: All assembly cylinders extend synchronously at a speed of 0.5-1.0 mm / s, pushing the entire ring of the segment to be assembled backward; the conical head of the guide rod continues to be inserted into the conical hole of the segment to be assembled, and the radial deviation is accurately aligned through the self-correction of the conical surface; Eliminating the gap between rings: To continue moving backward, the segments need to be assembled until the rear end face of the segment is in contact with the front end face of the assembled segment; Rapid bolt tightening: With the segments fully in contact, all inter-ring bolts are tightened simultaneously using an automatic wrench.

2. A simultaneous push and panel construction method according to claim 1, wherein: The propulsion cylinders are located inside the front and middle shields and pass through the cross beams.

3. A simultaneous push and panel construction method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The force transmission column three is provided with an installation cavity, and the hydraulic cylinder two is fixed at the bottom of the installation cavity.

4. The method of synchronizing the construction of claim 1, wherein: The shear-resistant column is fixed to the vacuum suction cup, and the shear-resistant column is set in the middle of the working surface of the vacuum suction cup.

5. The method of simultaneous construction of claim 1, wherein: A force transmission column and an intermediate column are set between force transmission ring one and force transmission ring two. Force transmission ring one and force transmission column one are fixed, and the intermediate column is set between force transmission column one and force transmission ring two.

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