Slurry shield system

Abstract

The invention discloses a slurry shield system which comprises a shield tunneling machine, a conveying assembly, an output assembly and a quarrying machine, the shield tunneling machine is used for excavating a tunnel, the conveying assembly is communicated with the shield tunneling machine so that the conveying assembly can convey slurry to the shield tunneling machine, the output assembly is communicated with the shield tunneling machine, and the quarrying machine is communicated with the output assembly. The quarrying machine comprises a storage assembly, a crushing assembly and a stirring assembly, the storage assembly is connected with the shield tunneling machine so that the slurry flowing out of the shield tunneling machine can be stored in the storage assembly, and the storage assembly is communicated with at least one of the crushing assembly, the stirring assembly and the output assembly. The storage assembly is used for storing slurry, so that the slurry in the storage assembly flows into at least one of the crushing assembly, the stirring assembly and the output assembly, the crushing assembly is used for crushing stones in the slurry, the stirring assembly is used for stirring the slurry, and the output assembly communicates with at least one of the storage assembly and the stirring assembly, so that the slurry in the storage assembly and the stirring assembly is output through the output assembly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of shield tunneling slurry drainage technology, and more particularly to a slurry shield tunneling system. Background Technology

[0002] In tunnel construction, slurry shield tunneling machines are widely used in various underground engineering projects such as urban subways, river-crossing tunnels, and water conveyance tunnels due to their high efficiency and safety. Their working principle involves injecting slurry into the excavation face, using the slurry pressure to balance the ground pressure, and simultaneously mixing the excavated soil with the slurry before discharging it outside the tunnel.

[0003] Among related technologies, slurry shield tunneling machines have poor handling capabilities for hard objects and are not efficient in collecting and transporting them. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention is based on the inventor's discoveries and understanding of the following facts and problems: In related technologies, slurry shield tunneling machines inevitably encounter various complex geological conditions, including a large number of hard objects such as rocks of varying sizes and hardness. During the handling of these hard objects, insufficient crushing capacity often leads to blockages in the slurry discharge pipelines, damaging downstream equipment such as slurry pumps and affecting the normal operation of the shield tunneling machine and the construction progress. Existing processing equipment has certain shortcomings in terms of crushing effect, processing capacity, and compatibility with the overall shield tunneling machine system, failing to achieve graded processing of rocks; furthermore, the integration of crushing and slag storage functions is low, and the gate sealing is poor, easily causing slurry leakage. In addition, uncrushed rocks are prone to rolling back during continuous crushing operations, reducing construction efficiency. For example, some crushers cannot adapt well to crushing rocks of different sizes, and the collection and transportation of rocks are not efficient enough.

[0005] The present invention aims to at least partially solve one of the technical problems in the related art.

[0006] Therefore, embodiments of the present invention propose a slurry shield tunneling system with high hard object handling capacity and efficient hard object collection and transportation.

[0007] A slurry shield tunneling system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes: a shield tunneling machine (TBM) for excavating a tunnel; a conveying assembly connected to the TBM for conveying slurry to the TBM; an output assembly connected to the TBM for allowing slurry generated by the TBM to flow into the output assembly; and a quarrying machine including a storage assembly, a crushing assembly, and a mixing assembly. The storage assembly is connected to the TBM for storing slurry flowing out of the TBM. The storage assembly is connected to at least one of the crushing assembly, the mixing assembly, and the output assembly, allowing slurry in the storage assembly to flow into at least one of the crushing assembly, the mixing assembly, and the output assembly. The crushing assembly is used to crush rocks in the slurry, the mixing assembly is used to mix the slurry, and the output assembly is connected to at least one of the storage assembly and the mixing assembly for outputting slurry from the storage assembly and the mixing assembly through the output assembly.

[0008] The slurry shield tunneling system of this invention includes a storage component, a crushing component, and a mixing component. The housing can collect rocks, slurry, and gravel excavated by the shield machine. The crushing component can crush rocks of different sizes and hardness, improving the efficiency and quality of rock processing. Finally, the mixing component ensures that the crushed rocks are evenly distributed in the slurry, preventing rock sedimentation and ensuring the fluidity and stability of the slurry. This facilitates subsequent slurry transportation and processing, and improves the efficiency of rock collection and transportation.

[0009] In some embodiments, the quarry has a first state, a second state, and a third state. When the tunnel boring machine (TBM) is excavating strata with a rock content higher than a preset value, the quarry is in the first state. The storage component is connected to both the crushing component and the mixing component, so that the slurry containing rocks in the storage component flows into the crushing component to crush the rocks. The mud in the slurry in the storage component flows into the mixing component for mixing. The crushing component is connected to the mixing component so that the crushed rocks from the crushing component are mixed by the mixing component. The mixing component is connected to the output component so that the slurry in the mixing component flows into the output component. The TBM is excavating the strata... When there are strata with a rock and sand content higher than a preset value, the quarry is in the second state. The storage component is connected to the crushing component and the output component respectively, so that the slurry containing rocks in the storage component flows into the crushing component to crush the rocks. The gravel in the slurry in the storage component flows into the output component. The mixing component is connected to the output component, so that the slurry in the mixing component flows into the output component. When the tunnel boring machine is excavating silt strata, sand strata and strata with rock particle sizes smaller than a preset value, the quarry is in the third state. The storage component is connected to the output component, so that the slurry in the storage component flows into the output component.

[0010] In some embodiments, the slurry shield tunneling system further includes a first screening component that is connected to the storage component and the mixing component respectively. The first screening component is used to separate the stones in the slurry in the storage component into first stones and second stones according to their particle size. The particle size of the first stones is smaller than that of the second stones. When the quarry is in a first state, the first screening component is turned on, and the first stones and the slurry in the storage component flow into the mixing component through the first screening component. The second stones in the storage component flow into the crushing component.

[0011] In some embodiments, the slurry shield tunneling system further includes a second screening component that is connected to the storage component and the output component respectively. The second screening component is used to separate the stones in the slurry in the storage component into third stones and fourth stones according to their particle size. The particle size of the third stones is smaller than that of the fourth stones. When the quarry is in the second state, the second screening component is turned on, and the third stones in the storage component and the slurry flow into the output component through the second screening component. The fourth stones in the storage component flow into the crushing component.

[0012] In some embodiments, the slurry shield system further includes a flushing assembly in communication with the conveying assembly so that slurry in the conveying assembly flows into the flushing assembly. The flushing assembly is in communication with at least one of the storage assembly, the crushing assembly, and the mixing assembly so that the flushing assembly flushes at least one of the storage assembly, the crushing assembly, and the mixing assembly.

[0013] In some embodiments, the slurry shield system further includes a backwashing assembly in communication with at least one of the storage assembly, the crushing assembly, and the mixing assembly, the backwashing assembly being adapted to be supplied with high-pressure water so that the backwashing assembly backwashes at least one of the storage assembly, the crushing assembly, and the mixing assembly.

[0014] In some embodiments, the slurry shield tunneling system further includes a vibrating element connected to at least one of the storage assembly, the crushing assembly, and the mixing assembly, such that the vibrating element vibrates at least one of the storage assembly, the crushing assembly, and the mixing assembly.

[0015] In some embodiments, the slurry shield tunneling system further includes a first level sensor, a first density sensor, and a first pressure sensor. The first level sensor, the first density sensor, and the first pressure sensor are all disposed within the storage component. The first level sensor, the first density sensor, and the first pressure sensor are respectively used to detect the level, density, and pressure of the slurry within the storage component, so that when at least one of the level, density, and pressure of the slurry within the storage component is higher than a preset value, the storage component is connected to at least one of the crushing component, the mixing component, and the output component.

[0016] In some embodiments, the slurry shield tunneling system further includes: a second level sensor, disposed within the mixing assembly, so that the mixing assembly is activated when the slurry level within the mixing assembly is higher than a set value; a second density sensor, disposed within the mixing assembly, so that the mixing assembly communicates with the output assembly when the density of the slurry within the mixing assembly reaches a preset value, so that the slurry within the mixing assembly flows into the output assembly; and a second pressure sensor, disposed within the mixing assembly, so that the mixing assembly communicates with the output assembly when the pressure within the mixing assembly is higher than a preset value, so that the slurry within the mixing assembly flows into the output assembly.

[0017] In some embodiments, at least one of the storage component, the crushing component, and the stirring component is provided with a maintenance observation window so that the housing can be inspected through the maintenance observation window. Attached Figure Description

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the slurry shield tunneling system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 2 This is a structural schematic diagram of the quarrying machine in the slurry shield tunneling system of this invention.

[0020] Figure 3 This is a structural schematic diagram of the first state of the quarrying machine in the slurry shield tunneling system of this invention.

[0021] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the second state of the quarrying machine in the slurry shield tunneling system of this invention.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a structural schematic diagram of the third state of the quarrying machine in the slurry shield tunneling system of this invention.

[0023] 100. Slurry shield tunneling system; 10. Quarrying machine; 1. Storage component; 2. Crushing component; 3. Mixing component; 4. First screening component; 5. Second screening component; 6. Backwash component; 7. Flushing component; 8. First pressure sensor; 9. First density sensor; 10. First material level sensor; 12. Second pressure sensor; 13. Second density sensor; 14. Second material level sensor; 15. Slurry inlet pipeline; 16. First hydraulic gate; 17. Second hydraulic gate; 18. Third hydraulic gate; 19. Fourth hydraulic gate; 20. Fifth hydraulic gate; 21. Sixth hydraulic gate; 22. Seventh hydraulic gate; 23. Eighth hydraulic gate; 24. Ninth hydraulic gate; 25. Shield machine; 26. Conveying component; 27. Output component. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0025] The slurry shield tunneling system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0026] like Figures 1-5 As shown, the slurry shield tunneling system 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a shield machine 25, a conveying assembly 26, an output assembly 27, and a quarry 10.

[0027] The tunnel boring machine 25 is used to excavate tunnels. A conveying assembly 26 is connected to the tunnel boring machine 25 to deliver slurry to it. An output assembly 27 is also connected to the tunnel boring machine 25 so that the slurry produced after excavation by the machine flows into it. Specifically, as shown... Figure 1As shown, the tunnel boring machine 25 is an underground engineering device used for tunneling and simultaneously completing support. The conveying component 26 includes a conveying pump and its outlet is connected to the tunnel boring machine 25, thereby conveying slurry to the tunnel boring machine 25. In the slurry balance tunnel boring machine 25, slurry is formed to balance the water and soil pressure at the excavation face and prevent the stratum from collapsing by forming a stable mud film. At the same time, it carries away the excavated soil to achieve continuous and efficient tunneling. The slurry parameters can be dynamically adjusted according to complex geological conditions to ensure construction safety and flexibility. The output component 27 includes an output pump and its inlet is connected to the outlet of the tunnel boring machine 25. The slurry generated after excavation by the tunnel boring machine 25 is discharged from the tunnel.

[0028] The quarry 10 includes a storage component 1, a crushing component 2, and a mixing component 3. The storage component 1 is connected to the tunnel boring machine 25 so that the slurry flowing out of the tunnel boring machine 25 is stored in the storage component 1. The storage component 1 is connected to at least one of the crushing component 2, the mixing component 3, and the output component 27 so that the slurry in the storage component 1 flows into at least one of the crushing component 2, the mixing component 3, and the output component 27. The crushing component 2 is used to crush stones in the slurry, the mixing component 3 is used to mix the slurry, and the output component 27 is connected to at least one of the storage component 1 and the mixing component 3 so that the slurry in the storage component 1 and the mixing component 3 is output through the output component 27. Specifically, as shown... Figure 2 As shown, storage component 1 is a quarry box and is located above crushing component 2. The inlet of storage component 1 is connected to the outlet of tunnel boring machine 25, so that the slurry (containing stones, mud and gravel) flowing out of tunnel boring machine 25 is stored in storage component 1. Crushing component 2 is a double-roll tooth crusher and is located above storage component 1. Stones in storage component 1 can flow into crushing component 2 for crushing and extrusion. Agitation component 3 is located below crushing component 2. The inlet of agitation component 3 can be connected to the outlet of crushing component 2 and the outlet of storage component 1, so that mud and crushed stones in storage component 1 flow into agitation component 3 for agitation. Agitation component 3 can fully agitate the crushed stones and mud, ensuring that stones are evenly distributed in the mud and water, effectively preventing the accumulation of stones.

[0029] Furthermore, the stirring action of the stirring component 3 can further refine the stone particles, significantly improving the fluidity and stability of the mud. The outlet of the stirring component 3 is connected to the inlet of the pump, thereby enabling the pump to transport the uniformly mixed stones and mud. The storage component 1 can be connected to the output component 27, allowing the gravel in the storage component 1 to be directly output through the output component 27.

[0030] The slurry shield tunneling system 100 of this invention includes a storage component 1, a crushing component 2, a first connecting component 3, and a mixing component 3. The storage component 1 can collect the rocks, slurry, and gravel excavated by the shield machine 25, so that the shield machine 25 does not need to be frequently interrupted during the excavation operation due to the handling of the excavated products, thereby ensuring the continuity and efficiency of the excavation work and improving the overall construction progress.

[0031] Secondly, the crushing component 2 can crush stones of different sizes and hardness, improving the efficiency of stone processing. It not only shortens the processing time but also ensures the stability and consistency of crushing quality. The stones processed by the crushing component 2 lay a good foundation for the subsequent mixing and conveying process, making the entire slurry shield tunneling system 100 operate more efficiently.

[0032] Finally, the mixing component 3 ensures that the stones are evenly distributed in the slurry, effectively preventing sedimentation and accumulation due to gravity, and ensuring stable flow of the slurry throughout the transport pipeline. Simultaneously, the mixing component 3 further refines and disperses the stone particles, making the slurry more uniform and delicate, improving its fluidity and stability. This not only benefits the subsequent transport process, reducing resistance and energy consumption, but also facilitates subsequent processing, improving the overall stone handling efficiency and comprehensive benefits of the slurry-water shield tunneling system. Furthermore, the uniform mixing of the slurry and stones allows for more efficient loading and transportation during transfer, improving stone collection and transfer efficiency while reducing transportation costs and energy consumption.

[0033] In summary, the slurry shield tunneling system 100 of this embodiment of the invention is equipped with a storage component 1, a crushing component 2, a first connecting component 3, and a mixing component 3, realizing the operation process from stone collection and crushing to uniform mixing. While improving the efficiency and quality of stone processing, it ensures the excellent performance of slurry, significantly improves the efficiency of stone collection and transportation, and improves the working efficiency of the shield machine 25.

[0034] In some embodiments, the quarry 10 has a first state, a second state, and a third state. When the tunnel boring machine 25 is excavating strata with a rock content higher than a preset value, the quarry 10 is in the first state. The storage component 1 is connected to the crushing component 2 and the mixing component 3, respectively, so that the slurry containing rocks in the storage component 1 flows into the crushing component 2 to crush the rocks. The slurry in the storage component 1 flows into the mixing component 3 for mixing. The crushing component 2 is connected to the mixing component 3 so that the crushed rocks from the crushing component 2 are mixed by the mixing component 3. The mixing component 3 is connected to the output component 27 so that the slurry in the mixing component 3 flows into the output component 27. Specifically, as shown... Figure 3As shown, when the tunnel boring machine 25 is in a stratum with a high content of large-diameter pebbles and gravel, the quarry 10 is in its first state. The stones and slurry excavated by the tunnel boring machine 25, containing large-diameter pebbles and gravel, flow into the storage component 1. At this time, the outlet of the storage component 1 is connected to the inlet of the crushing component 2 and the inlet of the mixing component 3. The stones in the storage component 1 can flow into the crushing component 2 for crushing, while the slurry flows into the mixing component 3 for preliminary mixing. At the same time, the outlet of the crushing component 2 is also connected to the inlet of the mixing component 3, which allows the mixing component 3 to fully mix the crushed stones and slurry, ensuring that the stones are evenly distributed in the mud and water, effectively preventing the accumulation of stones. In addition, the mixing action of the mixing component 3 can further refine the stone particles, significantly improving the fluidity and stability of the slurry. The outlet of the mixing component 3 is connected to the inlet of the pump, thereby enabling the pump to transport the evenly mixed stones and slurry.

[0035] When the tunnel boring machine 25 excavates strata containing stones and sand with a content higher than a preset value, the quarry 10 is in a second state. The storage component 1 is connected to both the crushing component 2 and the output component 27, allowing the slurry containing stones in the storage component 1 to flow into the crushing component 2 to crush the stones. The gravel in the slurry in the storage component 1 flows into the output component 27. The mixing component 3 is connected to the output component 27, allowing the slurry in the mixing component 3 to flow into the output component 27. Specifically, as shown... Figure 4 As shown, the tunnel boring machine 25 is in a stratum with some large stones but high sand content (such as a soft upper and hard lower stratum). The slurry shield tunneling system 100 is in the second state. The stones and gravel containing large-diameter pebbles and gravel excavated by the tunnel boring machine 25 will flow into the storage component 1. The sand layer flows out of the storage component 1 through the output component 27. The stones flow into the crushing component 2 through the storage component 1 for crushing.

[0036] When the tunnel boring machine 25 is excavating silt, sand, or rock formations with a particle size smaller than a preset value, the quarry 10 is in its third state, and the storage component 1 is connected to the output component 27 so that the slurry in the storage component 1 flows into the output component 27. Specifically, as... Figure 5 As shown, when the tunnel boring machine 25 is in a silt and sand layer without large rocks, the quarrying machine 10 is in the third state. Because the sand and gravel particles in the slurry produced from this stratum are small, there is no problem of large rocks settling and accumulating, and the slurry itself has good fluidity, allowing it to pass smoothly through the pipes. If the processing procedures of the first and second states were still used, unnecessary operational steps would be added, reducing the overall efficiency of the system. Therefore, the storage component 1 is connected to the output component 27, allowing the slurry containing a large amount of sand and gravel excavated by the tunnel boring machine 25 to be directly transported through the output component 27.

[0037] In some embodiments, the slurry shield tunneling system 100 further includes a first screening component 4 connected to the storage component 1 and the mixing component 3 respectively. The first screening component 4 is used to separate the stones in the slurry in the storage component 1 into first stones and second stones according to their particle size. The particle size of the first stones is smaller than that of the second stones. When the quarry 10 is in the first state, the first screening component 4 is activated, and the first stones and slurry in the storage component 1 flow into the mixing component 3 through the first screening component 4. The second stones in the storage component 1 flow into the crushing component 2. Specifically, as shown... Figures 2-5 As shown, the first screening component 4 may include a connecting pipe and a grid. The two ends of the connecting pipe are connected to the lower end of the storage component 1 and the stirring component 3, respectively. The grid is fixed inside the connecting pipe and positioned near the bottom of the storage component 1. The grid has the function of screening stones according to their particle size, dividing the stones in the storage component 1 into smaller first-sized stones and larger second-sized stones. When the quarry 10 is in the first state, the smaller first-sized stones and slurry can pass smoothly through the grid and flow into the stirring component 3, while the larger second-sized stones are blocked by the grid within the storage component 1 and then flow into the crushing component 2 for crushing.

[0038] In some embodiments, the slurry shield tunneling system 100 further includes a second screening component 5 connected to the storage component 1 and the output component 27 respectively. The second screening component 5 is used to separate the stones in the slurry in the storage component 1 into third stones and fourth stones according to their particle size. The particle size of the third stones is smaller than that of the fourth stones. When the quarry 10 is in the second state, the second screening component 5 is activated, and the third stones and slurry in the storage component 1 flow into the output component 27 through the second screening component 5, while the fourth stones in the storage component 1 flow into the crushing component 2. Specifically, as shown... Figure 2 As shown, the second screening component 5 may include a connecting pipe and a grid. The two ends of the connecting pipe are connected to the lower end of the storage component 1 and the inlet of the pump, respectively. The grid is fixed inside the connecting pipe and is set near the bottom of the storage component 1. The grid has the function of screening stones according to their particle size, and can divide the stones in the storage component 1 into small-sized third stones and large-sized fourth stones. The quarry 10 also includes a second state, that is, the tunnel boring machine 25 is in a stratum with some large stones but high sand content (such as a soft upper and hard lower stratum). The stones and gravel containing large-sized pebbles and gravel excavated by the tunnel boring machine 25 will flow into the storage component 1. The small-sized third stones and mud can pass smoothly through the grid into the mixing component 3, while the large-sized fourth stones will be blocked by the grid in the storage component 1, and then flow into the crushing component 2 for crushing.

[0039] In some embodiments, the slurry shield tunneling system 100 further includes a flushing assembly 7, which is connected to a conveying assembly 26 so that slurry in the conveying assembly 26 flows into the flushing assembly. The flushing assembly 7 is connected to at least one of a storage assembly 1, a crushing assembly 2, and a mixing assembly 3 so that the flushing assembly 7 flushes at least one of the storage assembly 1, the crushing assembly 2, and the mixing assembly 3. Specifically, as Figures 2-5 As shown, the flushing assembly 7 includes a first flushing pipe, a second flushing pipe, and a third flushing pipe. The inlets of the first flushing pipe, the second flushing pipe, and the third flushing pipe are connected to the outlet of the conveying assembly 26, so that the slurry from the output assembly 27 flows into the first flushing pipe, the second flushing pipe, and the third flushing pipe. The outlets of the first flushing pipe, the second flushing pipe, and the third flushing pipe are respectively connected to the inlet of the storage assembly 1, the inlet of the crushing assembly 2, and the inlet of the mixing assembly 3, thereby flushing the storage assembly 1, the crushing assembly 2, and the mixing assembly 3 through the first flushing pipe, the second flushing pipe, and the third flushing pipe, respectively. In addition, in the first state and the second state, slurry is replenished to the storage assembly 1, the crushing assembly 2, and the mixing assembly 3 through the first flushing pipe, the second flushing pipe, and the third flushing pipe, respectively, to ensure the crushing and mixing efficiency of the crushing assembly 2 and the mixing assembly 3.

[0040] In some embodiments, the slurry shield tunneling system 100 further includes a backwash assembly 6, which is in communication with at least one of the storage assembly 1, the crushing assembly 2, and the mixing assembly 3. The backwash assembly 6 is adapted to be supplied with high-pressure water so that it backwashes at least one of the storage assembly 1, the crushing assembly 2, and the mixing assembly 3. Specifically, as Figures 2-5 As shown, the backwash assembly 6 includes a first backwash pipe, a second backwash pipe, and a third backwash pipe. The inlets of the first, second, and third backwash pipes are all connected to high-pressure water pipes, allowing high-pressure water to flow into the first, second, and third backwash pipes. The outlets of the first, second, and third backwash pipes are connected to the outlets of the storage assembly 1, the crushing assembly 2, and the stirring assembly 3, respectively, thereby backwashing the storage assembly 1, the crushing assembly 2, and the stirring assembly 3 through the first, second, and third backwash pipes.

[0041] In some embodiments, the slurry shield tunneling system 100 further includes a vibrating element (not shown in the figure), which is connected to at least one of the storage component 1, the crushing component 2, and the mixing component 3, so that the vibrating element vibrates at least one of the storage component 1, the crushing component 2, and the mixing component 3. Specifically, the vibrating element is a vibrator and the number of vibrating elements is at least three. At least one vibrating element is provided on the storage component 1, the crushing component 2, and the mixing component 3, thereby vibrating the storage component 1, the crushing component 2, and the mixing component 3 to clean them.

[0042] In some embodiments, the slurry shield tunneling system 100 further includes a first level sensor 10, a first density sensor 9, and a first pressure sensor 8. The first level sensor 10, the first density sensor 9, and the first pressure sensor 8 are all disposed within the storage component 1. The first level sensor 10, the first density sensor 9, and the first pressure sensor 8 are respectively used to detect the level, density, and pressure of the slurry within the storage component 1, so that when at least one of the slurry level, density, and pressure within the storage component 1 exceeds a preset value, the storage component 1 is connected to at least one of the crushing component 2, the mixing component 3, and the output component 27. Specifically, as... Figures 2-5 As shown, the first density sensor 9 and the first level sensor 10 are both installed inside the storage component 1 to detect the level and pressure of the slurry inside the storage component 1. The first pressure sensor 8 includes a first sensor and a second sensor. Both the first sensor and the second sensor are installed inside the storage component 1, with the first sensor located at the top of the storage component 1 and the second sensor located at the bottom of the storage component 1. The first sensor and the second sensor detect the pressure at the top and bottom of the storage component 1, respectively. The amount of slag (e.g., stones or gravel) inside the storage component 1 is determined by the pressure difference detected by the first sensor and the second sensor. When at least one of the density, liquid level, and pressure difference inside the storage component 1 is detected to be higher than a preset value, it indicates that the stone content in the slurry inside the storage component 1 may be too high or the slurry volume may be too large. At this time, the crushing component 2 is connected to the storage component 1, allowing the stones to flow into the crushing component 2 for crushing.

[0043] For example, when encountering strata with many large rocks during excavation, the accumulation of rocks in storage component 1 will lead to an increase in density and pressure difference. By detecting these parameters, crushing component 2 can be activated in time to prevent rocks from clogging storage component 1 or affecting subsequent processing procedures.

[0044] Alternatively, when at least one of the pressure difference and liquid level is higher than a preset value, the storage component 1 can be turned on, allowing the storage component 1 to pre-store the slurry to a preset value, enabling centralized processing of the slurry in the storage component 1 and improving processing efficiency.

[0045] In some embodiments, the slurry shield tunneling system 100 further includes a second level sensor 14, a second density sensor 13, and a second pressure sensor 12. The second level sensor 14 is located within the mixing assembly 3 so that the mixing assembly 3 is activated when the slurry level within the mixing assembly 3 is higher than a set value. The second density sensor 13 is located within the mixing assembly 3 so that the mixing assembly 3 communicates with the output assembly 27 when the density of the slurry within the mixing assembly 3 reaches a preset value, allowing the slurry within the mixing assembly 3 to flow into the output assembly 27. The second pressure sensor 12 is located within the mixing assembly 3 so that the mixing assembly 3 communicates with the output assembly 27 when the pressure within the mixing assembly 3 is higher than a preset value, allowing the slurry within the mixing assembly 3 to flow into the output assembly 27. Figures 2-5 As shown, the second pressure sensor 12, the second density sensor 13, and the second level sensor 14 are all installed in the stirring assembly 3. When at least one of the density and liquid level in the storage assembly 1 is higher than the preset value, it indicates that the amount of slurry in the stirring assembly 3 has reached the preset value, and the stirring assembly 3 is turned on to stir.

[0046] The second pressure sensor 12 includes a third sensor and a fourth sensor, which are respectively installed at the top and bottom of the mixing assembly 3. They detect the top and bottom pressures in the storage assembly 1. The pressure difference detected by the third sensor and the fourth sensor is used to determine whether there is sedimentation at the bottom of the mixing assembly 3. When the pressure difference is greater than a preset value, it indicates that there is sedimentation at the bottom of the mixing assembly 3, and the mixing speed of the mixing assembly 3 needs to be increased. When the pressure difference is less than the preset value, it indicates that the slurry is mixed evenly, and the slurry in the mixing assembly 3 can flow into the output assembly 27.

[0047] In some embodiments, at least one of the storage component 1, the crushing component 2, and the stirring component 3 is provided with a maintenance observation window to allow for maintenance of the housing. Specifically, the storage component 1, the crushing component 2, and the stirring component 3 are all provided with maintenance observation windows, and the storage component 1, the crushing component 2, and the stirring component 3 are maintained through the maintenance observation windows.

[0048] The slurry shield tunneling system 100 of this invention provides a three-layer graded rock debris treatment system. Through precise control of the interlayer flow via hydraulic gates, it achieves a continuous process of "pre-collection → efficient crushing → anti-deposition storage," solving the problem of large-diameter rock blockage and improving the adaptability of the tunnel boring machine 25 in complex geological formations. It can efficiently crush and process rocks, improving the stability and construction efficiency of the tunnel boring machine 25.

[0049] The slurry shield tunneling system 100 consists of three vertically stacked structures: upper, middle, and lower, with the layers isolated / connected by hydraulic gates 12.

[0050] 1. Top Layer: Storage Component 1: Used for initial collection of rocks transported from the tunnel boring machine 25 excavation face. Storage Component 1 has a certain volume to temporarily store rocks. Its design can accommodate the inflow of mud and water and the accumulation of rocks. Structurally, it is compatible with the crushing component 2 in the middle layer, facilitating the subsequent entry of rocks into the crushing stage. Storage Component 1 is equipped with sensors such as a first pressure sensor 8, a first material level sensor 10, and a first density sensor 9, which can display the pressure and density of Storage Component 1 in real time. The data difference reflects the rock accumulation in Storage Component 1. Storage Component 1 is equipped with an inspection and observation window for rapid inspection and troubleshooting.

[0051] 2. Intermediate Layer: Crushing Component 2: This crushing component 2 is hydraulically driven and consists of two toothed rollers. When stones enter the crushing component 2 from the storage component 1 through the hydraulic gate, the two rollers rotate in opposite directions, and the roller teeth squeeze and crush the stones. The hydraulic drive system can automatically adjust the roller speed and pressure according to the size and hardness of the stones to achieve the best crushing effect. The outer shell of the crushing component 2 is made of high-strength material, capable of withstanding the impact and wear during the crushing process. The storage component 1 is equipped with an inspection window for rapid inspection and troubleshooting.

[0052] 3. Lower Layer: Mixing Component 3: The crushed stones from the crushing component 2 fall into the lower mixing component 3. This quarry is equipped with a mixing device, also hydraulically driven (or motor driven). The mixing device thoroughly mixes the crushed stones and muddy water, ensuring the stones are evenly distributed and preventing sedimentation. Simultaneously, mixing further refines the stone particles, improving the fluidity and stability of the slurry. The mixing quarry is equipped with pressure sensors, level sensors, and density sensors to display pressure and density in real time. The data difference reflects the stone accumulation in storage component 1, allowing for adjustments to the mixing speed. Storage component 1 is equipped with an inspection window and a drain outlet for rapid inspection and troubleshooting.

[0053] 4. Hydraulic Gates: The hydraulic gates include a first hydraulic gate 16, a second hydraulic gate 17, a third hydraulic gate 18, a fourth hydraulic gate 19, a fifth hydraulic gate 20, a sixth hydraulic gate 21, a seventh hydraulic gate 22, an eighth hydraulic gate 23, and a ninth hydraulic gate 24. These gates are positioned between the upper, middle, and lower layers to control the connection and isolation between them. The hydraulic gates are precisely controlled by a hydraulic system and can be flexibly opened or closed according to the equipment's operating status and the handling of the stones. For example, when the stones accumulate to a certain level in storage component 1, the hydraulic gate between the upper and middle layers is opened, allowing the stones to enter crushing component 2. After crushing component 2 completes the crushing, the hydraulic gate between the middle and lower layers is opened, allowing the crushed stones to fall into mixing component 3. The basic structure of the gate consists of a sealing gate plate, a telescopic hydraulic cylinder with a stroke indicator (to observe whether it is fully closed), a polyurethane strip embedded in the sealing surface, and an emergency inflation nozzle. In case of slurry leakage or excessive system pressure preventing tight closure, inflation and pressurization are performed to prevent slurry leakage under 6 Bar slurry pressure. The upper gate is set at a certain angle to prevent stones from accumulating in the small quarry during crushing and failing to fall.

[0054] (II) Work Process: (1) such as Figure 1 As shown, the required path is selected based on the stratum where the tunnel boring machine 25 is located. If it is in a stratum with a high content of large-diameter pebbles and gravel, mode one is selected. In this stratum, the crusher and quarry are used frequently, and in most cases, storage component 1 and the crusher need to work for a long time. The working process of mode one is as follows: Feeding stage: Slurry containing large stones enters through the slurry inlet pipe 15. The first hydraulic gate 16 opens, the second hydraulic gate 17 closes, and the slurry enters the upper slurry inlet pipe 15. The fourth hydraulic gate 19 opens, and the third hydraulic gate 18 and the seventh hydraulic gate 22 close. The slurry to be processed enters the storage component 1, and the sixth hydraulic gate 21 closes. The slurry is divided into two parts in the storage component 1. The mud and stones with a particle size smaller than a certain value pass through the second screening component 5. The fifth hydraulic gate 20 opens, and the slurry with small particles passes through the upper to lower connecting pipe. After the storage component 1 is detected to be open, the stirring drive motor starts, the stirring begins to rotate, and the first and second right slurry discharge gate valves of the lower quarry box open, and the slurry is discharged.

[0055] Crushing Stage: When the value of the first density sensor 9 significantly exceeds the density of the slurry discharge pipe of the tunnel boring machine 25, and a pressure difference exists between the first pressure sensor 891 and the second pressure sensor 12, the first material level sensor 1094 alarms, the motor of the crushing assembly 2 starts, and the hydraulic gate above the crushing assembly 2 opens, allowing stones from the storage assembly 1 to fall into the crushing assembly 2. The hydraulic motor drives the rollers to rotate in opposite directions, crushing the stones to the set particle size. The hydraulic gate above the crushing assembly 2 automatically closes within a set time, awaiting the next signal to open.

[0056] Lower quarrying stage: When the hydraulic gate above the crushing component 2 is opened, the hydraulic gate below the crushing component 2 is also opened, the eighth hydraulic gate 23 and the ninth hydraulic gate 24 are opened, the stirring drive motor (motor) is started, the stirring starts to rotate, the crushed stones fall into the stirring component 3 and are discharged together with other slurry.

[0057] (2) For example Figure 2 As shown, the required passage is selected based on the geological conditions where the tunnel boring machine 25 is located. If it is in a geological stratum with some large rocks but high sand content (such as a soft upper and hard lower stratum), mode two is selected. In this geological stratum, the crusher and quarry are used less frequently, and most of the rock can be discharged directly. The workflow of mode two is as follows: Feeding stage: Slurry containing large stones enters through the slurry inlet pipe 15. The first hydraulic gate 16 opens, the second hydraulic gate 17 closes, and the slurry enters the upper slurry inlet pipe 15. The fourth hydraulic gate 19 opens, and the third hydraulic gate 18 and the fourth hydraulic gate 19 close. The slurry to be processed enters the storage component 1, and the fifth hydraulic gate 20 closes. The slurry is divided into two in the upper quarry box. The mud and stones with a particle size smaller than a certain value pass through the second screening component 5. The sixth hydraulic gate 21 opens, and the slurry with small particles passes through the slag discharge pipe. The ninth hydraulic gate 24 opens, and the slurry is discharged.

[0058] Crushing Stage: When the value of the first density sensor 9 significantly exceeds the density of the slurry discharge pipe of the tunnel boring machine 25, and a pressure difference exists between the first pressure sensor 891 and the second pressure sensor 12, the material level sensor alarms, the motor of crushing component 2 starts, the hydraulic gate above crushing component 2 opens, and the upper layer of stones falls into the crushing chamber. The hydraulic motor drives the roller teeth to rotate in opposite directions, crushing the stones to the set particle size. The hydraulic gate above crushing component 2 automatically closes within a set time, waiting for the next signal to open.

[0059] Lower quarrying stage: When the hydraulic gate above the crushing component 2 is opened, the hydraulic gate below the crushing component 2 is also opened, the eighth hydraulic gate 23 and the ninth hydraulic gate 24 are opened, the stirring drive motor (motor) is started, the stirring starts to rotate, the crushed stones fall into the stirring component 3 and are discharged together with other slurry.

[0060] (3) such as Figure 3 As shown, the required passage is selected based on the geological conditions where the tunnel boring machine 25 is located. If there are no large rocks in the silt and sand layers, mode three is selected. Without large rocks, there is no need for a quarrying process; it is better to discharge directly through pipelines. Adding a quarry box and crusher would only increase unnecessary pressure loss and equipment maintenance. The workflow of mode three is as follows: Feeding stage: Slurry containing large stones enters through the slurry inlet pipe 15. The first hydraulic gate 16 opens, the second hydraulic gate 17 closes, and the slurry enters the upper slurry inlet pipe 15. The fourth hydraulic gate 19 closes, and the third hydraulic gate 18 and the fourth hydraulic gate 19 open; while the sixth hydraulic gate 21 closes. The slurry passes through the slag discharge pipe, the eighth hydraulic gate 23 closes, and the ninth hydraulic gate 24 opens, discharging the slurry.

[0061] (3) Self-cleaning mode: During the tunneling and crushing process of the shield machine 25, the fine particles of mud generated are very easy to adhere and solidify on the crusher roller teeth, the inner wall of the storage component 1 and the mixing shaft, forming a hard "mud cake", which leads to: ① When mud cake fills the gap between the roller teeth, the crushing force decreases, power consumption increases, and crushing efficiency drops sharply.

[0062] ②The effective volume of storage component 1 is reduced, and the slag discharge channel is blocked.

[0063] ③ Frequent shutdowns are required, and the cost of workers entering the cabins for intensive manual cleaning and maintenance is very high.

[0064] Therefore, this equipment is equipped with a self-cleaning mode, which consists of two liquid flushing methods: one is the flushing of fresh bentonite slurry brought in by the equipment through the flushing component 7, and the other is the flushing of high-pressure clean water from the tunnel boring machine 25 through the backwashing component 6. Multiple sets of nozzles are arranged above and on both sides of the crusher in the crushing chamber, with the spray trajectory covering areas such as the roller tooth gap and storage component 1. Nozzles are arranged on the top of the upper storage component 1 for flushing the box walls. Nozzles are arranged around the walls of the lower mixing and quarrying box and at the center of the mixing shaft. An attached vibrating motor is installed on storage component 1. A camera is installed at the observation window; through image recognition or manual analysis of adhesion, a self-cleaning operation is initiated when significant adhesion is detected on storage component 1. The specific operation is as follows: 1. Regular self-cleaning (automatically executed once every 3 or 5 rings of tunneling or once every 4 hours): When the timer or tunneling mileage reaches the set value, the upper and lower hydraulic gates are closed, the crusher and agitator are idle (at low speed), the vibrator of storage component 1 is turned on for 50 or 60 seconds, fresh bentonite slurry is flushed for 30 seconds, followed by a 30-second rinse with clean water. The entire process is expected to take less than 1 minute and has a negligible impact on tunneling.

[0065] 2. Targeted self-cleaning: If adhesion is found in a storage component 1 through image analysis and manual analysis, the crusher and agitator will run idle, the vibrator of storage component 1 will be turned on, and the fresh bentonite slurry will be rinsed and the clean water will be rinsed alternately until the adhesion no longer affects the actual operation, and then the operation will be stopped.

[0066] 3. Thorough cleaning: This can be performed during shutdown maintenance. After receiving the "system shutdown" signal, when the driver presses the "thorough cleaning" button, the slag in each storage component will be emptied, all flushing nozzles will be turned on, and flushing will continue for 5 to 10 minutes. All vibrators will be started alternately, and the agitator will run in both forward and reverse directions to ensure that the equipment remains clean during shutdown and is ready for the next startup.

[0067] (III) Advantages 1. High-efficiency crushing: The hydraulically driven crushing component 2 can adaptively adjust according to the actual situation of the stone, and can achieve high-efficiency crushing of stones of different sizes and hardness, thus improving the efficiency and quality of stone processing.

[0068] 2. Uniform distribution of stones: The lower mixing component 3 uses a mixing device to evenly distribute the crushed stones in the mud and water, avoiding the accumulation of stones and ensuring the fluidity and stability of the mud, which is beneficial for subsequent mud transportation and treatment.

[0069] 3. Flexible control: The hydraulic gate allows for flexible control of the connection and separation between different floors, which can be adjusted according to the actual working conditions, thus improving the overall operating efficiency and reliability of the equipment.

[0070] 4. Long-term safe operation: From passively cleaning the quarry boxes to actively preventing and avoiding energy waste and media contamination, most operations do not require machine downtime, significantly increasing the pure tunneling time of the tunnel boring machine 25, improving construction efficiency, and avoiding high-risk operations such as manual cleaning in confined spaces.

[0071] 5. Equipment maintenance and adjustment: If problems are found during equipment operation and maintenance and adjustment are required, the process mode can be manually switched to ensure that normal tunneling and problem handling do not conflict, saving downtime and ensuring the normal operation of the equipment.

[0072] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0073] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0074] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0075] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0076] In this invention, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0077] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A slurry shield tunneling system, characterized in that, include: A tunnel boring machine (TBM), used for excavating tunnels; A conveying assembly, which is connected to the tunnel boring machine (TBM) so that the conveying assembly can deliver slurry to the TBM; An output component, which is connected to the tunnel boring machine (TBM) so that the slurry generated by the TBM after excavation flows into the output component; A quarrying machine includes a storage component, a crushing component, and a mixing component. The storage component is connected to the tunnel boring machine (TBM) to store slurry flowing out of the TBM. The storage component is connected to at least one of the crushing component, the mixing component, and the output component to allow slurry in the storage component to flow into at least one of these components. The crushing component is used to crush rocks in the slurry, the mixing component is used to mix the slurry, and the output component is connected to at least one of the storage component and the mixing component to output slurry from the storage component and the mixing component.

2. The slurry shield tunneling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The quarry has a first state, a second state, and a third state. When the tunnel boring machine (TBM) is excavating strata with a rock content higher than a preset value, the quarry is in the first state. The storage component is connected to both the crushing component and the mixing component, so that the rock in the slurry in the storage component flows into the crushing component to crush the rocks, and the mud in the slurry in the storage component flows into the mixing component for agitation. The crushing component is connected to the mixing component so that the crushed rocks are agitated by the mixing component. The mixing component is connected to the output component so that the slurry in the mixing component flows into the output component. When the tunnel boring machine excavates strata containing rocks and sand with a content higher than a preset value, the quarry is in the second state. The storage component is connected to the crushing component and the output component respectively, so that the rocks in the slurry in the storage component flow into the crushing component to crush the rocks, and the gravel in the slurry in the storage component flow into the output component. The mixing component is connected to the output component so that the slurry in the mixing component flows into the output component. When the tunnel boring machine is excavating silt, sand, or rock formations with a particle size smaller than a preset value, the quarry is in the third state, and the storage component is connected to the output component so that the slurry in the storage component flows into the output component.

3. The slurry shield tunneling system according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a first screening component that is connected to the storage component and the stirring component respectively. The first screening component is used to separate the stones in the slurry in the storage component into first stones and second stones according to their particle size. The particle size of the first stones is smaller than that of the second stones. When the quarry is in the first state, the first screening component is turned on. The first stones and the slurry in the storage component flow into the stirring component through the first screening component, and the second stones in the storage component flow into the crushing component.

4. The slurry shield tunneling system according to claim 2, characterized in that, It also includes a second screening component that is connected to the storage component and the output component respectively. The second screening component is used to separate the stones in the slurry in the storage component into third stones and fourth stones according to their particle size. The particle size of the third stones is smaller than that of the fourth stones. When the quarry is in the second state, the second screening component is turned on. The third stones and the slurry in the storage component flow into the output component through the second screening component, and the fourth stones in the storage component flow into the crushing component.

5. The slurry shield tunneling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a flushing assembly connected to the conveying assembly so that slurry in the conveying assembly flows into the flushing assembly, and the flushing assembly is connected to at least one of the storage assembly, the crushing assembly and the agitation assembly so that the flushing assembly flushes at least one of the storage assembly, the crushing assembly and the agitation assembly.

6. The slurry shield tunneling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a backwash assembly in communication with at least one of the storage assembly, the crushing assembly and the agitation assembly, the backwash assembly being adapted to be supplied with high-pressure water so that the backwash assembly backwashes at least one of the storage assembly, the crushing assembly and the agitation assembly.

7. The slurry shield tunneling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a vibrating element connected to at least one of the storage component, the crushing component, and the stirring component, such that the vibrating element vibrates at least one of the storage component, the crushing component, and the stirring component.

8. The slurry shield tunneling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a first level sensor, a first density sensor, and a first pressure sensor, all of which are located within the storage component. The first level sensor, the first density sensor, and the first pressure sensor are used to detect the level, density, and pressure of the slurry within the storage component, respectively, so that when at least one of the level, density, and pressure of the slurry within the storage component is higher than a preset value, the storage component is connected to at least one of the crushing component, the stirring component, and the output component.

9. The slurry shield tunneling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A second level sensor is installed inside the mixing assembly so that the mixing assembly is activated when the slurry level inside the mixing assembly is higher than a set value. A second density sensor is disposed inside the stirring assembly so that when the density of the slurry inside the stirring assembly reaches a preset value, the stirring assembly is connected to the output assembly so that the slurry inside the stirring assembly flows into the output assembly. A second pressure sensor is disposed within the stirring assembly so that when the pressure within the second stirring assembly exceeds a preset value, the stirring assembly connects to the output assembly, allowing the slurry within the stirring assembly to flow into the output assembly.

10. The slurry shield tunneling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least one of the storage component, the crushing component, and the stirring component is provided with a maintenance observation window so that the housing can be inspected through the maintenance observation window.

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