Device and method for improving deformation resistance of whole ring of shield tunnel segment

By installing a fiber rope ring installation structure on the outside of the shield tunnel segments, the contact pressure is increased by using fiber ropes, which solves the problem of insufficient deformation resistance of the entire ring of shield tunnel segments, and realizes efficient and stable tunnel construction and operation.

CN121497360APending Publication Date: 2026-02-10CHINA RAILWAY SEVENTH GRP CO LTD +7
View PDF 1 Cites 0 Cited by

Patent Information

Application Number
CN202511410089.3
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-09-29
Publication Date
2026-02-10

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

In existing technologies, the overall resistance to deformation of shield tunnel segments is limited, and they are prone to misalignment and loss of roundness after assembly, making it difficult to maintain stability under complex geological conditions.

Method used

A fiber rope ring installation structure is set at the tail of the tunnel boring machine. The fiber rope is embedded in the circumferential groove on the outside of the segment and the contact pressure is increased by the tensioning device to form a closed force ring, thereby improving the contact pressure and stability between the segments.

Benefits of technology

It significantly improves the deformation resistance of the entire tunnel segment ring, reduces the risk of tunnel deformation, enhances structural stability, reduces construction difficulty and cycle, improves construction quality and safety, and has a high cost-performance ratio.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

Smart Images

  • Figure CN121497360A_ABST
    Figure CN121497360A_ABST
Patent Text Reader

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of shield tunnel construction, and discloses a device and method for improving the deformation resistance of a whole ring of a shield tunnel segment. The technical problems that in the prior art, the deformation resistance of a whole segment ring is limited, and dislocation and even out-of-roundness are likely to happen between segments are solved. The device comprises a fiber rope loop mounting structure mounted on a shield tail and a shield shell of the shield tunneling machine, the fiber rope loop mounting structure comprises an annular groove annularly formed in the outer side of a segment, and a fiber rope penetrates through the annular groove and surrounds the outer side of the segment by a circle; one end of the fiber rope is connected with a tensioning part; the other end of the fiber rope is connected with a storage component in the shield tunneling machine, and the storage component communicates with the fiber rope loop mounting structure through a fiber rope conveying pipeline. The contact pressure between the segments can be improved, the overall stability of the segments is remarkably improved, dislocation and out-of-round of the segments after the segments are separated from the shield tail are prevented, the tunnel deformation risk is reduced, and the method adapts to the challenges of geological changes and external loads in long-term operation of the tunnel.
Need to check novelty before this filing date? Find Prior Art

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of shield tunnel construction technology, and in particular to a device and method for improving the deformation resistance of the entire ring of shield tunnel segments. Background Technology

[0002] In shield tunnel construction, the tunnel segments, as the main components of the tunnel lining structure, have a crucial impact on the overall stability and deformation resistance of the tunnel construction quality. While existing technologies employ different segment joint designs and synchronous grouting processes to improve the stability of the entire segment ring, many shortcomings remain. During shield tunnel construction, the segments are affected by soil pressure, stratum deformation, and other factors, making them prone to localized stress concentration. Traditional segment structures rely primarily on their own rigidity and splicing methods to resist external forces; however, under complex geological conditions, these measures often fail to meet deformation resistance requirements, leading to segment deformation, misalignment, and even damage. After assembly, the connections between segments mainly rely on bolts or tenon joints. This connection method is prone to loosening or failure under external forces, reducing the overall stability of the entire segment ring.

[0003] Chinese patent document 201410048582.0 discloses a method for preparing longitudinal prestressed concrete lining segments for shield tunnels. The method involves embedding hole-making devices at predetermined positions on the connecting blocks, standard blocks, and arch bottom blocks of the lining rings in each set of cyclic intervals to create ducts. Prestressed steel strands are then inserted into the ducts, and the two types of anchoring rings of the arch bottom block are staggered in the two intervals. This method is prone to generating tension gaps at the type B anchoring rings, making the type B anchoring rings a weak link. Furthermore, this patent cannot achieve uniform prestress across the entire shield ring.

[0004] However, the above-mentioned solutions have at least the following technical problems during implementation: 1) After the segments are assembled, the overall ring's resistance to deformation is limited due to insufficient contact pressure; 2) After the segments exit the shield tail, the grouting slurry behind the wall has not fully solidified, making it easy for the segments to shift or even become out of round, affecting the overall tunnel stability; 3) Under long-term geological changes and external loads, existing technologies cannot guarantee the continuous stability of the segments. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a device and method to improve the overall ring's resistance to deformation of shield tunnel segments. By increasing the contact pressure between the segments during the segment assembly process, the overall ring's resistance to deformation can be fundamentally improved, thereby enhancing the overall tunnel stability. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of the above technical problems, this disclosure provides a device and method for improving the deformation resistance of the entire ring of tunnel segments, solving the technical problems of limited deformation resistance of the entire ring of tunnel segments in the prior art, and easy misalignment or even out-of-roundness between segments. To solve this problem, a method is proposed that uses a fiber rope loop installation structure and sets a circumferential semi-circular groove at the middle position of the outer side of the segment, so that the fiber rope is embedded therein. The tension of the fiber rope increases the contact pressure between the segments, thereby improving the stability and deformation resistance of the entire ring of tunnel segments. This invention not only effectively improves the overall stability after the segments are assembled, but also reduces the tunnel deformation problem caused by segment deformation.

[0006] According to one aspect of this disclosure, a device is provided to improve the deformation resistance of a shield tunnel segment ring, comprising a fiber rope ring mounting structure installed on the shield tail shell of a shield machine. The fiber rope ring mounting structure includes a circumferential groove arranged around the outside of the segment, and the fiber rope passes through the circumferential groove and surrounds the outside of the segment once. One end of the fiber rope is connected to a tensioning component to tighten the fiber rope according to a set tension, thereby increasing the contact pressure between the segment blocks. The other end of the fiber rope is connected to a storage component inside the shield machine. The storage component is connected to the fiber rope ring mounting structure through a fiber rope transmission pipeline and is used to supply fiber rope. The storage component has a built-in monitoring unit to detect the remaining length and supply status of the fiber rope. It also includes a cutting component installed on the outside of the segment for cutting the fiber rope after it has wrapped around the segment once.

[0007] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the cross-section of the circumferential groove is a semi-circular structure, and its diameter matches the diameter of the fiber rope.

[0008] In some embodiments of this disclosure, the tensioning device includes sensors and regulators for monitoring and adjusting the tension of the fiber rope.

[0009] In some embodiments of this disclosure, a circumferential motion component is also included, which includes an annular track mounted on the tail of the shield. The annular track carries a drive motor to drive the fiber rope to move around the outside of the tube segment and embed it into the annular groove once.

[0010] In some embodiments of this disclosure, a connecting component is also included for connecting the fiber rope joint portion; the connecting component is also equipped with a monitoring module for periodically detecting the joint connection status.

[0011] A method for improving the deformation resistance of a whole ring of shield tunnel segments includes the following steps: (1) Fiber rope supply: Fiber rope is continuously supplied through a storage component set at the tail of the shield machine. The storage component has a built-in monitoring unit that detects the remaining amount and supply status of the fiber rope in real time. (2) Circumferential installation: Start the circumferential motion component to drive the fiber rope to move along the circular track of the shield tail, run around the outside of the segment once, and embed the fiber rope into the preset circumferential groove on the outside of the segment; (3) Tension control: The tensioning component applies a preset tension F to the fiber rope. Its integrated high-precision sensor monitors the tension in real time. The control module dynamically adjusts the tension to the set value based on the feedback data and starts the automatic correction function to resist vibration or temperature fluctuations. (4) Connection and fixing: After tensioning is completed, the ends of the fiber rope are fixedly connected by the connecting components to form a closed force ring; (5) Cutting and separating: After the fiber rope completes the closed-loop connection, the cutting component cuts the fiber rope at a predetermined position, so that the fiber rope segment of the current tube ring becomes an independent ring.

[0012] In some embodiments of this disclosure, in step (1), the fiber rope is stored and continuously transported in the form of a spool.

[0013] In some embodiments of this disclosure, in step (3), the automatic correction function includes: when the sensor detects that the tension force deviates from the set value ±ΔF, the control module triggers the regulator to restore the tension force to the set tension F within a time t.

[0014] In some embodiments of this disclosure, in step (4), the connecting component uses a snap-fit ​​or welding to achieve a fixed connection at the end of the fiber rope, and a monitoring module (63) is configured to periodically detect the connection status.

[0015] In some embodiments of this disclosure, steps (1)-(5) are executed in conjunction with a control module. The control module integrates fault detection and alarm components to automatically suspend construction and issue a maintenance signal when any link is abnormal.

[0016] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: Increasing the contact pressure between tunnel segments significantly improves the overall stability of the segments, prevents misalignment and out-of-roundness after the segments leave the shield tail, reduces the risk of tunnel deformation, and adapts to the challenges of geological changes and external loads during long-term tunnel operation, showing broad application prospects. By wrapping fiber ropes around the outside of the segments and applying preset tension using tensioning components, the contact pressure between the segments is increased, ensuring a tight bond between the segments. This significantly improves the overall deformation resistance of the segment ring, effectively preventing deformation and misalignment caused by soil pressure, ground deformation, and other factors during shield tunnel construction. The fiber ropes forming a closed stress ring around the outside of the segments evenly distribute external forces to all parts of the segments, avoiding damage caused by localized stress concentration and further enhancing the structural stability of the segments. From fiber rope supply, circumferential installation, tension control, connection and fixing to cutting and separation, the entire process is executed in conjunction with a control module, achieving automated construction. This not only reduces manual operation, lowers construction difficulty and labor intensity, but also improves construction efficiency and shortens the construction cycle. The high-precision sensor integrated into the tensioning device can monitor the tension of the fiber rope in real time and dynamically adjust the tension to the set value through the control module. Simultaneously, the monitoring unit built into the storage component can detect the remaining length and supply status of the fiber rope in real time, and the monitoring module equipped in the connection component can periodically check the joint connection status, ensuring precise control and reliable quality during construction. The automatic correction function in the tensioning control step can promptly trigger the regulator to restore the tension to the set value when the sensor detects a deviation in tension, effectively resisting the influence of vibration or temperature fluctuations on the fiber rope tension, ensuring that the fiber rope is always in the optimal stress state, further improving the stability of construction quality. The control module integrates fault detection and alarm components, which can automatically pause construction and issue maintenance signals when any abnormality occurs, promptly identifying and handling potential safety hazards, avoiding the risk of accidents caused by equipment failure or construction errors, and ensuring the safety of shield tunnel construction. The cutting component cuts the fiber rope after the closed-loop connection is completed, making the fiber rope segment of the current segment ring an independent ring, avoiding mutual interference between the fiber rope and other segment rings during subsequent construction, and reducing safety risks during construction. Fiber rope, as a relatively lightweight and low-cost material, offers better cost-effectiveness compared to traditional reinforcement materials or complex mechanical devices. Furthermore, the circumferential motion components and tensioning parts in the device are all general-purpose equipment, easy to procure and maintain, thus reducing equipment and operating costs. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a device to improve the deformation resistance of the entire ring of shield tunnel segments; Figure 2 for Figure 1 A magnified view of a portion of the image; Figure 3Reference diagram for the installation location of the fiber rope loop structure; The components in the diagram are named as follows: 1 is the shield shell, 2 is the fiber rope transmission pipeline, 3 is the shield tail brush, 4 is the circumferential groove, 5 is the annular track, 6 is the circumferential motion device, 7 is the tensioning device, 8 is the fiber rope, 9 is the tunnel segment, and 10 is the tunnel segment block. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the preferred embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit the present invention. Example 1

[0019] This example discloses a device and method for improving the deformation resistance of the entire ring of shield tunnel segments. See [link to relevant documentation]. Figures 1 to 3 The system includes a fiber rope loop mounting structure installed on the shield shell 1 at the tail of the tunnel boring machine (in front of the tail brush 3). The fiber rope loop mounting structure includes an circumferential groove 4 arranged around the outside of the segment 9. The fiber rope passes through the circumferential groove 4 and wraps around the outside of the segment. One end of the fiber rope 8 is connected to a tensioning component 7 to tighten the fiber rope according to a set tension, thereby increasing the contact pressure between the segment blocks 10. The other end of the fiber rope 8 is connected to a storage component inside the tunnel boring machine. The storage component is connected to the fiber rope loop mounting structure through the fiber rope transmission pipeline 2 to supply the fiber rope 8. The storage component has a built-in monitoring unit to detect the remaining length and supply status of the fiber rope. The system also includes a cutting component installed on the outside of the segment to cut the fiber rope 8 after it has wrapped around the segment 9 once.

[0020] The cross-section of the circumferential groove is semi-circular, and its diameter matches the diameter of the fiber rope.

[0021] The tensioning device includes sensors and regulators for monitoring and adjusting the tension of the fiber rope.

[0022] It also includes a circumferential motion component 6, which includes an annular track 5 installed at the tail of the shield. The annular track 5 carries a drive motor to drive the fiber rope to move around the outside of the tube segment and embed it into the annular groove for one revolution.

[0023] It also includes connecting components for connecting the fiber rope joints; the connecting components are also equipped with a monitoring module for periodically checking the joint connection status.

[0024] A method for improving the deformation resistance of a whole ring of shield tunnel segments includes the following steps: (1) Fiber rope supply: Fiber rope is continuously supplied through a storage unit set at the tail of the shield machine. The storage unit has a built-in monitoring unit to detect the remaining amount and supply status of the fiber rope in real time. (2) Circumferential installation: Start the circumferential motion component to drive the fiber rope to move along the circular track of the shield tail, run around the outside of the segment once, and embed the fiber rope into the preset circumferential groove on the outside of the segment; (3) Tension control: The tensioning component applies a preset tension F to the fiber rope. Its integrated high-precision sensor monitors the tension in real time. The control module dynamically adjusts the tension to the set value based on the feedback data and starts the automatic correction function to resist vibration or temperature fluctuations. (4) Connection and fixing: After tensioning is completed, the ends of the fiber rope are fixedly connected by the connecting components to form a closed force ring; (5) Cutting and separating: After the fiber rope completes the closed-loop connection, the cutting component cuts the fiber rope at a predetermined position, so that the fiber rope segment of the current tube ring becomes an independent ring.

[0025] In step (1), the fiber rope is stored and continuously transported in the form of a spool.

[0026] In step (3), the automatic correction function includes: when the sensor detects that the tension force deviates from the set value ±ΔF, the control module triggers the regulator to restore the tension force to the set value F within time t.

[0027] In step (4), the connecting parts are fixedly connected to the ends of the fiber rope by means of snaps or welding, and a monitoring module (63) is configured to periodically detect the connection status.

[0028] Steps (1)-(5) are executed in conjunction with the control module. The control module integrates fault detection and alarm components to automatically suspend construction and issue a maintenance signal when any link is abnormal.

[0029] Specific embodiments of the present invention are as follows: Figure 1 As shown. First, a fiber rope loop installation structure is installed on the shield shell at the tail of the tunnel boring machine. This structure includes a circumferential motion device, a tensioning device, a cutting device, and a connecting device, which can effectively wrap the fiber rope around the outside of the tunnel segment and tighten it.

[0030] 1) Storage devices and supply systems The fiber ropes are stored in spools inside the tunnel boring machine (TBM). These spools are connected to a fiber rope loop installation structure on the tail of the shield via a piping system, ensuring a continuous supply of fiber ropes during construction.

[0031] The built-in monitoring unit of the storage device can detect the remaining length and supply status of the fiber rope in real time, ensuring the stable operation of the supply system.

[0032] 2) Installation process of circumferential motion device and fiber rope When the tunnel segment is advanced to the installation area by the tunnel boring machine, the circumferential motion device is automatically activated. This device is driven by a motor and runs along a circular track set on the inner wall of the shield tail, evenly moving the fiber rope around the outside of the tunnel segment once.

[0033] The pre-set circumferential semi-circular groove on the outer side of the tube is precisely matched with the diameter of the fiber rope, so that the fiber rope is accurately embedded in the groove during movement, avoiding uneven tension due to displacement.

[0034] After the fiber rope wraps around the tube segment once, the cutting device cuts the fiber rope joint at a predetermined position to ensure that the fiber rope segment connected by the subsequent connecting device has independence and continuity.

[0035] 3) Tensioning device and its control system The tensioning device integrates high-precision sensors and an automatic adjuster. The sensors monitor the tension of the fiber rope in real time and feed the data back to the control system.

[0036] The control system automatically adjusts the tensioning device according to the set tension F, so that the fiber rope is always kept in the expected tension state, thereby forming sufficient contact pressure between the tube segments.

[0037] To prevent tension fluctuations caused by vibration or temperature changes during construction, the system has an automatic correction function to ensure long-term stable power supply.

[0038] 4) Connecting device and continuous tension protection After the fiber rope is tensioned by the tensioning device, the connecting device immediately connects the fiber rope joint tightly.

[0039] The connection method adopts mechanical snap-fit ​​or welding technology to ensure that the fiber rope remains in a non-slack state during the long-term operation of the tunnel segment, thereby continuously providing the necessary pressure support for the tunnel segment.

[0040] In addition, the connection device is equipped with a monitoring module to periodically check the connection status of the connectors, and promptly detect and prevent potential disconnection risks.

[0041] 5) Integrated system linkage and security assurance The various subsystems of this invention (storage, supply, circumferential motion, tensioning, cutting, and connection) are operated in conjunction with a central control system to achieve automated and continuous installation.

[0042] The control system has fault detection and alarm functions. Once any abnormality is detected, it can automatically stop construction and prompt maintenance to ensure the safety and stability of the entire construction process.

[0043] In addition, the system design takes into account the adaptability to the complex environment of the shield tunnel construction site. All equipment is equipped with dustproof, moisture-proof and earthquake-resistant designs to meet long-term construction requirements.

[0044] In summary, this invention, by setting a fiber rope loop installation structure at the tail of the tunnel boring machine and pre-setting grooves on the outside of the tunnel segments, utilizes devices such as circumferential motion, tensioning, cutting, and connection to achieve uniform installation and continuous tension of the fiber rope between the tunnel segments. This significantly improves the deformation resistance of the entire ring of tunnel segments and provides a strong guarantee for the overall stability of the tunnel. It has high engineering application value and promising prospects for promotion.

[0045] Although some 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.

[0046] Obviously, those skilled in the art can make various modifications and variations to this invention without departing from its spirit and scope. Therefore, if these modifications and variations fall within the scope of the claims of this application and their equivalents, this invention also intends to include these modifications and variations.

Claims

1. A device for improving the deformation resistance of a complete ring of shield tunnel segments, characterized in that: The system includes a fiber rope loop mounting structure installed on the tail shield shell of a tunnel boring machine (TBM). The fiber rope loop mounting structure includes an circumferential groove arranged around the outside of the tunnel segment. The fiber rope passes through the circumferential groove and wraps around the outside of the tunnel segment once. One end of the fiber rope is connected to a tensioning component to tighten the fiber rope according to a set tension, thereby increasing the contact pressure between the tunnel segment sections. The other end of the fiber rope is connected to a storage component inside the TBM. The storage component is connected to the fiber rope loop mounting structure via a fiber rope transmission pipeline and is used to supply fiber rope. The storage component has a built-in monitoring unit to detect the remaining length and supply status of the fiber rope. The system also includes a cutting component installed on the outside of the tunnel segment to cut the fiber rope after it has wrapped around the segment once.

2. The device for improving the deformation resistance of the entire ring of shield tunnel segments as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The cross-section of the circumferential groove is semi-circular, and its diameter matches the diameter of the fiber rope.

3. The device for improving the deformation resistance of the entire ring of shield tunnel segments as described in claim 1, characterized in that: The tensioning device includes sensors and regulators for monitoring and adjusting the tension of the fiber rope.

4. The device for improving the deformation resistance of the entire ring of shield tunnel segments as described in claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a circumferential motion component, which includes an annular track installed at the tail of the shield. The annular track carries a drive motor to drive the fiber rope to move around the outside of the tube segment and embed it into the annular groove for one revolution.

5. The device for improving the deformation resistance of the entire ring of shield tunnel segments as described in claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a connecting component for connecting the fiber rope joint; the connecting component is also equipped with a monitoring module for periodically checking the joint connection status.

6. A method for improving the deformation resistance of a complete ring of shield tunnel segments, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: (1) Fiber rope supply: Fiber rope is continuously supplied through a storage component set at the tail of the shield machine. The storage component has a built-in monitoring unit that detects the remaining amount and supply status of the fiber rope in real time. (2) Circumferential installation: Start the circumferential motion component to drive the fiber rope to move along the circular track of the shield tail, run around the outside of the segment once, and embed the fiber rope into the preset circumferential groove on the outside of the segment; (3) Tension control: The tensioning component applies a preset tension F to the fiber rope. Its integrated high-precision sensor monitors the tension in real time. The control module dynamically adjusts the tension to the set value based on the feedback data and starts the automatic correction function to resist vibration or temperature fluctuations. (4) Connection and fixing: After tensioning is completed, the ends of the fiber rope are fixedly connected by the connecting components to form a closed force ring; (5) Cutting and separating: After the fiber rope completes the closed-loop connection, the cutting component cuts the fiber rope at a predetermined position, so that the fiber rope segment of the current tube ring becomes an independent ring.

7. The method for improving the deformation resistance of the entire ring of shield tunnel segments as described in claim 1, characterized in that: In step (1), the fiber rope is stored and continuously transported in the form of a spool.

8. The method for improving the deformation resistance of the entire ring of shield tunnel segments as described in claim 1, characterized in that: In step (3), the automatic correction function includes: when the sensor detects that the tension force deviates from the set value ±ΔF, the control module triggers the regulator to restore the tension force to the set tension F within a time t.

9. The method for improving the deformation resistance of the entire ring of shield tunnel segments as described in claim 1, characterized in that: In step (4), the connecting component uses a snap-fit ​​or welding to fix the ends of the fiber rope, and a monitoring module (63) is configured to periodically detect the connection status.

10. The method for improving the deformation resistance of the entire ring of shield tunnel segments as described in claim 1, characterized in that: Steps (1)-(5) are executed in conjunction with the control module, which integrates fault detection and alarm components to automatically suspend construction and issue a maintenance signal when any link is abnormal.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Method for manufacturing shield tunnel longitudinal prestressing concrete lining segment

    CN103790598A