Shield tunneling machine cabin accurate temperature control system and method based on mute type cold water medium
By using a silent chilled water medium-based shield tunneling machine cabin temperature control system, which employs a closed-loop chilled water circulation and modular silent heat exchange units, the problems of noise pollution, waste heat discharge, and low energy efficiency in shield tunneling machine cabin temperature control have been solved. This system achieves precise temperature control and rapid cooling, improving the construction environment and safety.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- CHINA RAILWAY ENG EQUIP GRP (TIANJIN CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2026-03-04
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-21
AI Technical Summary
Existing tunnel boring machine cabin temperature control technologies suffer from serious noise pollution, increased tunnel heat load due to internal discharge of waste heat from refrigeration, low energy efficiency, inability to quickly and flexibly cool temporary work areas, and difficulty in achieving precise temperature control in each cabin.
The tunnel boring machine cabin adopts a precision temperature control system based on silent chilled water medium, which includes a refrigeration unit, a closed chilled water circulation network, a modular terminal silent heat exchange unit, a cooling water circulation loop and an intelligent control unit. The closed chilled water circulation network and the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit realize the precise delivery of cold energy and the directional discharge of waste heat, and the intelligent control unit performs dynamic adjustment.
It achieves low noise, low waste heat emissions, and improved energy efficiency. It can achieve precise temperature control in each compartment and rapid cooling in temporary large spaces, thereby improving the quality of the working environment and the efficiency and safety of tunnel construction.
Smart Images

Figure CN121897358A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This invention relates to the field of tunnel construction equipment and underground space environmental protection technology, specifically to a precise temperature control system and method for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cold water medium. Background Technology
[0002] As a core piece of ultra-large tunneling equipment in tunnel engineering, the tunnel boring machine (TBM) integrates multiple functional compartments, including a main control room, personnel compartment, rest room, and cutter replacement compartment. These compartments are densely packed with various precision electrical and hydraulic equipment, and workers must operate continuously for extended periods. Therefore, stringent requirements exist for controlling the temperature, humidity, and air quality within these compartments. Excessive temperature and humidity not only affect the comfort and health of workers but also easily cause electronic component failures and reduced equipment reliability, severely hindering the efficiency and safety of tunnel construction. Currently, the industry primarily employs three technical solutions for temperature control in TBM compartments: centralized air conditioning systems, decentralized independent air conditioning, and simple ventilation. Centralized air conditioning systems are the mainstream application, with decentralized independent air conditioning systems used in some small and medium-sized compartments. Simple ventilation solutions are also used in deep, long tunnels or high-temperature strata for auxiliary cooling. These technical solutions have been widely adopted in the domestic tunnel construction field.
[0003] While existing tunnel boring machine cabin temperature control technologies can achieve basic cooling effects, they all have unavoidable technical flaws. They cannot simultaneously meet the multiple needs of cooling efficiency, working environment, and energy utilization. Centralized air conditioning systems rely on high-power fans to deliver cold air through long-distance ducts. The high-power operation of the fans generates low-frequency noise of 70-80 decibels. At the same time, the system needs to continuously maintain the static pressure of the ducts, which easily leads to the problem of "all systems running at once" and wasting energy. Furthermore, the condensers of the air-cooled refrigeration units will discharge waste heat into the tunnel, exacerbating the overall heat load and easily causing cross-contamination of air in different cabins. Although decentralized independent air conditioning can achieve independent temperature control in each cabin, each outdoor unit of the air conditioner discharges waste heat into the tunnel, creating a heat island effect. The high temperature environment in the tunnel will also significantly reduce the heat dissipation efficiency of the condensers, resulting in a sharp drop in cooling capacity and energy efficiency ratio. At the same time, it cannot meet the rapid cooling needs of temporary large spaces such as the cutter changing chamber. Simple ventilation solutions only alleviate stuffiness by increasing the ventilation volume. In the case of high ground temperature and deep tunnels, the cooling effect is minimal, and it cannot achieve precise temperature and humidity control in the cabin. In summary, existing technologies have failed to effectively solve core engineering challenges such as noise pollution, waste heat discharge, energy waste, and flexible deployment during the temperature control process of the tunnel boring machine cabin, becoming key factors restricting the intelligent and humanized development of tunnel construction equipment.
[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need for a precise temperature control system for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent chilled water medium to solve the problems of serious noise pollution, internal discharge of refrigeration waste heat, and low energy utilization efficiency of existing technologies. Summary of the Invention
[0005] To address these issues, this invention provides a precise temperature control system and method for tunnel boring machine (TBM) cabins based on a silent cold water medium. This system solves the problems of existing TBM cabin temperature control technologies, such as severe noise pollution, increased tunnel heat load due to internal discharge of refrigeration waste heat, low energy efficiency, inability to quickly and flexibly cool temporary work areas, and difficulty in achieving precise temperature control for each cabin.
[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: a precision temperature control system for a tunnel boring machine (TBM) cabin based on a silent chilled water medium, characterized in that it includes a refrigeration unit, a closed-loop chilled water circulation network, a modular terminal silent heat exchange unit, a cooling water circulation loop, and an intelligent control unit; the refrigeration unit is connected to the main control room, rest room, maintenance room, and central compartment of the TBM through the closed-loop chilled water circulation network; the closed-loop chilled water circulation network is connected to the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit through branch valves; the cooling water circulation loop is connected to the condenser of the refrigeration unit and connected to the main cooling water system of the TBM; the intelligent control unit is electrically connected to the refrigeration unit, the closed-loop chilled water circulation network, the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit, and the cooling water circulation loop respectively; The closed-loop chilled water circulation network includes a main inlet pipe and a main outlet pipe; the main inlet pipe is connected to the main control room inlet pipe, the rest room inlet pipe, the maintenance room inlet pipe and the central compartment inlet pipe respectively; the main outlet pipe is connected to the main control room outlet pipe, the rest room outlet pipe, the maintenance room outlet pipe and the central compartment outlet pipe respectively; each compartment's inlet and outlet pipes are equipped with branch valves, and are connected to the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit of the corresponding compartment through the branch valves.
[0007] As a preferred embodiment of a precise temperature control system for the tunnel boring machine (TBM) cabin based on a silent, cold water medium, the cooling water circulation loop includes an external inlet pipe and an external outlet pipe. One end of the external inlet pipe is connected to the condenser inlet of the refrigeration unit, and the other end is connected to the outlet of the TBM's main cooling water system. One end of the external outlet pipe is connected to the condenser outlet of the refrigeration unit, and the other end is connected to the return water of the TBM's main cooling water system. The cooling water circulation loop can also be configured with an independent small cooling tower module. The small cooling tower module is connected to the external inlet pipe and the external outlet pipe.
[0008] As a preferred solution for a precise temperature control system for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent chilled water medium, the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit is a standardized air cooler unit, including a coil, an EC fan, a temperature and humidity sensor, and a unit controller. The water inlet of the coil is connected to the water inlet pipe of the corresponding cabin, and the water outlet is connected to the drain pipe of the corresponding cabin. An air filter is provided at the air inlet end of the EC fan. A condensate pan is provided below the coil. The condensate pan is connected to a booster pump. The temperature and humidity sensor and the EC fan are electrically connected to the unit controller. The unit controller is communicatively connected to the intelligent control unit.
[0009] As a preferred solution for a precise temperature control system for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cold water medium, the central cabin is equipped with a quick-connect panel with a dust cover on its bulkhead; the standardized air cooler unit is equipped with a quick-connect self-sealing male connector that matches the quick-connect panel; the quick-connect panel is connected to the central cabin water inlet pipe and the central cabin drain pipe respectively; the standardized air cooler unit has a movable structure, which is equipped with rollers and the quick-connect self-sealing male connector, and achieves rapid water connection with the quick-connect panel through the quick-connect self-sealing male connector.
[0010] As a preferred solution for a precise temperature control system for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent chilled water medium, the intelligent control unit is equipped with a main controller; the main controller is used to collect the temperature and pressure of the chilled water supply and return main pipe, the operating status and required temperature of the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit, the ambient temperature, and the temperature signal of the tunnel boring machine's main cooling water system.
[0011] This invention also provides a method for precise temperature control of the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cooling water medium, including: The intelligent control unit is started and the main controller is initialized; the preset temperature and humidity parameters of each functional compartment of the tunnel boring machine are read through the main controller; the refrigeration unit, closed-loop chilled water circulation network and cooling water circulation loop are started and put into standby mode. The main controller collects real-time data on the operating status of all modular terminal silent heat exchange units, the temperature and pressure of the chilled water supply and return main pipes, the ambient temperature, and the temperature of the tunnel boring machine's main cooling water system. Based on the collected real-time data, the total cooling load of the current system is obtained through weighted calculation, and the short-term load change trend is predicted. Based on the total cooling load and cooling water temperature, the main controller determines the optimal outlet water temperature target value and compressor operating frequency of the chiller unit through a fuzzy PID control algorithm, and issues adjustment commands to the chiller unit to achieve matching between the cold source output and the actual load; Based on the pressure difference between the chilled water supply and return and the target flow rate, the main controller dynamically adjusts the operating frequency of the variable frequency speed-regulating circulating water pump in the closed chilled water circulation network to achieve adaptive water supply with variable flow rate. The main controller receives water volume adjustment requests from each modular terminal silent heat exchange unit. Based on the set compartment priority, it fine-tunes the opening of the water inlet pipe of each compartment through the branch valve to ensure that the cooling needs of the key compartments are met first. Each modular terminal silent heat exchange unit collects real-time cabin temperature and humidity data through the unit controller; based on the difference between the preset temperature and humidity parameters and the real-time data, the speed of the EC fan is adjusted, and the cooling demand is fed back to the main controller; The system continuously predicts cooling load and regulates the temperature of each compartment to achieve dynamic balance adjustment of the temperature control system.
[0012] As a preferred solution for a precise temperature control method for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cold water medium, if the central compartment generates temporary cooling demand, the mobile standardized air cooler unit is connected to the quick interface panel to achieve water circuit connection; after the main controller detects the new branch connection signal, it incorporates the new branch into the control system; the temperature and humidity parameters are set according to the cooling demand, and the temperature control of the temporary work area is adjusted.
[0013] As a preferred solution for precise temperature control of the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent chilled water medium, the current system's total cooling load is calculated using the following formula:
[0014] In the formula, This represents the total cooling load of the system. n The number of functional compartments in the tunnel boring machine; For the first i Load weighting coefficient for each compartment; For the first i Real-time cooling load of each compartment; This is a correction factor for ambient temperature. As the environmental heat transfer cooling load; This is the equipment heating correction factor; This refers to the cooling load of the equipment.
[0015] As a preferred embodiment of the precise temperature control method for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent chilled water medium, the calculation formula for the optimal outlet water temperature target value of the chiller unit is as follows:
[0016] In the formula, This represents the target value for the optimal outlet water temperature of the chiller unit. This refers to the basic outlet water temperature of the refrigeration unit. This is the proportionality coefficient; The integral coefficient; These are the differential coefficients; This is the real-time deviation value; This is the integral term for the deviation; This is the differential term of the deviation.
[0017] As a preferred embodiment of the precise temperature control method for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cooling water medium, the short-term load change trend is calculated using a linear prediction formula, which is:
[0018] In the formula, for Forecast total cooling load after the time period; For the current moment t The total cooling load of the system; This is a correction factor for the rate of load change; This represents the current rate of change in cooling load. This is a correction factor for tunneling conditions; for Changes in tunneling power of the tunnel boring machine over a given time period.
[0019] The present invention has the following advantages: First, it has excellent noise reduction and a better working environment: It abandons the traditional duct air supply mode and uses closed-loop cold water circulation as the core of energy delivery. It is equipped with low-noise EC fans to eliminate low-frequency noise pollution from high-power fans. The background noise of the cabin is greatly reduced, ensuring the physical and mental health of personnel and clear on-site communication. The air in each cabin circulates independently to avoid cross-contamination and improve air quality.
[0020] Second, waste heat is directed to the outside to improve the thermal environment of the tunnel: through a dual-loop heat exchange architecture, the waste heat from refrigeration is collected into the main cooling system of the tunnel boring machine and transferred to the outside of the tunnel for dissipation, thus eliminating the vicious cycle of "local cooling and overall heating" and reducing the thermal load of the tunnel from the source, thereby reducing the burden on the tunnel ventilation system.
[0021] Third, it has excellent energy efficiency and significantly reduced energy consumption: It adopts a full frequency conversion linkage design, and the entire link of cold source, transmission and distribution and terminal can be dynamically adjusted according to the actual load. Combined with the intelligent control strategy of demand-side response, it improves the operating energy efficiency under partial load. Compared with traditional systems, it saves 30%-50% in energy. Precise cooling capacity configuration reduces equipment redundancy investment.
[0022] Fourth, flexible temperature control to meet diverse needs: Each compartment is equipped with an independent modular heat exchange unit, which can realize independent setting and control of temperature and humidity without interference; the temporary work area is equipped with a quick self-sealing joint system, which can realize "plug and play" rapid cooling deployment and solve the cooling needs of temporary large spaces such as tool changing compartments.
[0023] Fifth, the system operates stably and is easy to maintain: it reuses the original mature main cooling system of the tunnel boring machine to dissipate waste heat, simplifies the structure of the air conditioner itself, and improves the operational stability under high temperature and high dust tunnel conditions; the modular heat exchange unit is designed in a standardized manner, and components such as filters and condensate pans can be easily disassembled and cleaned, reducing the difficulty of later maintenance.
[0024] Sixth, the layout is scientific and reasonable, and the space utilization rate is high: the cold water pipeline has a large cooling capacity per unit diameter, and the pipeline space occupied is much smaller than that of traditional air ducts. The main pipeline adopts the same route layout, and is equipped with seismic supports and compensators to adapt to the vibration and deformation of shield tunneling. The overall layout fits the internal space characteristics of the shield machine. Attached Figure Description
[0025] To more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention or the technical solutions in the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings in the following description are merely exemplary, and those skilled in the art can derive other embodiments based on the provided drawings without creative effort.
[0026] The structures, proportions, sizes, etc. illustrated in this specification are only for the purpose of assisting those skilled in the art in understanding and reading the content disclosed herein, and are not intended to limit the conditions under which the present invention can be implemented. Therefore, they have no substantial technical significance. Any modifications to the structure, changes in the proportions, or adjustments to the size, without affecting the effects and objectives that the present invention can produce, should still fall within the scope of the technical content disclosed in the present invention.
[0027] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the principle of the shield tunneling machine cabin precision temperature control system based on silent cold water medium provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the internal structure of the standardized air cooler unit provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the overall layout of the shield tunneling machine cabin precision temperature control system based on silent cold water medium provided in Embodiment 1 of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the precise temperature control method for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cold water medium provided in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. In the diagram, 1. Refrigeration unit; 2. Main control room; 3. Main control room water inlet pipe; 4. Main control room drain pipe; 5. Rest room; 6. Rest room water inlet pipe; 7. Rest room drain pipe; 8. Maintenance room; 9. Maintenance room water inlet pipe; 10. Maintenance room drain pipe; 11. Central compartment; 12. Central compartment water inlet pipe; 13. Central compartment drain pipe; 14. Branch valve; 15. Main water inlet pipe; 16. Main drain pipe; 17. External water inlet pipe; 18. External drain pipe; 19. Coil; 20. Air filter; 21. EC fan. Detailed Implementation
[0028] The following specific embodiments illustrate the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present invention from the content disclosed in this specification. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention. Example
[0029] See Figure 1 and Figure 2 Embodiment 1 of the present invention provides a precise temperature control system for the tunnel boring machine (TBM) cabin based on a silent chilled water medium, including a refrigeration unit 1, a closed-loop chilled water circulation network, a modular terminal silent heat exchange unit, a cooling water circulation loop, and an intelligent control unit. The refrigeration unit 1 is connected to the main control room 2, rest room 5, maintenance room 8, and central compartment 11 of the TBM through the closed-loop chilled water circulation network. The closed-loop chilled water circulation network is connected to the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit through a branch valve 14. The cooling water circulation loop is connected to the condenser of the refrigeration unit 1 and connected to the main cooling water system of the TBM. The intelligent control unit is electrically connected to the refrigeration unit 1, the closed-loop chilled water circulation network, the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit, and the cooling water circulation loop. Specifically, the present invention includes a refrigeration unit 1, a closed-loop chilled water circulation network, a modular terminal silent heat exchange unit, a cooling water circulation loop, and an intelligent control unit. The system uses the refrigeration unit 1 as the core cold source, and the closed-loop chilled water circulation network achieves silent delivery of cold energy. The modular terminal silent heat exchange unit completes the exchange of cold energy between the compartments. The cooling water circulation loop enables the directional discharge of refrigeration waste heat. The intelligent control unit coordinates and regulates the operating status of each component, forming an integrated shield machine cabin temperature control system. The core units cooperate and work together to achieve temperature regulation of each functional compartment of the shield machine.
[0030] The refrigeration unit 1 is connected to the main control room 2, rest room 5, maintenance room 8, and central compartment 11 of the tunnel boring machine through the closed-loop chilled water circulation network. As the centralized cold source of the system, the refrigeration unit 1 can produce low-temperature chilled water and transport it to different functional compartments inside the tunnel boring machine through the closed-loop chilled water circulation network. It provides cooling support for compartments with temperature control requirements, such as the main control room 2, rest room 5, maintenance room 8, and central compartment 11, and realizes the precise delivery and distribution of cooling capacity from the cold source to each compartment that needs cooling.
[0031] The closed-loop chilled water circulation network is connected to the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit via branch valve 14. Branch valve 14 is a connection control component between the closed-loop chilled water circulation network and the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit. It can realize the on / off control of the chilled water branch in each compartment, and at the same time, it can finely adjust the flow rate of chilled water in the branch, so that the low-temperature chilled water transported by the closed-loop chilled water circulation network can be accurately connected to the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit in each compartment, ensuring the effective transfer of cold energy to the heat exchange unit.
[0032] The cooling water circulation loop is connected to the condenser of the refrigeration unit 1 and is connected to the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine. The cooling water circulation loop is specially designed for the heat dissipation of the condenser of the refrigeration unit 1. After being connected to the condenser, it can remove the waste heat generated during the cooling process. At the same time, by connecting to the existing mature main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine, the waste heat can be transported to the outside of the tunnel with the help of the heat dissipation capacity of the main cooling water system, so as to realize the directional discharge of the cooling waste heat and avoid the accumulation of waste heat in the tunnel.
[0033] The intelligent control unit is electrically connected to the refrigeration unit 1, the closed-loop chilled water circulation network, the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit, and the cooling water circulation loop, respectively. The intelligent control unit is the control core of the system. It realizes signal interaction and operation control with each functional unit through electrical connection. It can collect the operating parameters of each unit in real time and dynamically adjust the cooling output of the refrigeration unit 1, the water flow status of the closed-loop chilled water circulation network, the working mode of the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit, and the operating efficiency of the cooling water circulation loop according to the temperature control requirements of each compartment, so as to realize the intelligent linkage control of the entire system.
[0034] In this embodiment, the closed-loop chilled water circulation network includes a main inlet pipe 15 and a main drain pipe 16. The main inlet pipe 15 is connected to the main control room inlet pipe 3, the rest room inlet pipe 6, the maintenance room inlet pipe 9, and the central compartment inlet pipe 12, respectively. The main drain pipe 16 is connected to the main control room drain pipe 4, the rest room drain pipe 7, the maintenance room drain pipe 10, and the central compartment drain pipe 13, respectively. Each compartment's inlet and outlet pipes are equipped with branch valves 14, which are connected to the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit of the corresponding compartment through the branch valves 14.
[0035] Specifically, the closed-loop chilled water circulation network includes a main inlet pipe 15 and a main outlet pipe 16. The main inlet pipe 15 and the main outlet pipe 16 are the core transport pipelines of the closed-loop chilled water circulation network. Together, they form a closed-loop circulation path for chilled water. The main inlet pipe 15 is responsible for transporting the low-temperature chilled water prepared by the refrigeration unit 1 to each compartment. The main outlet pipe 16 is responsible for transporting the high-temperature return water after heat exchange in each compartment back to the refrigeration unit 1 for recooling, ensuring the recycling of chilled water and the continuous delivery of cooling capacity.
[0036] The main water inlet pipe 15 is connected to the main control room water inlet pipe 3, the rest room water inlet pipe 6, the maintenance room water inlet pipe 9, and the central compartment water inlet pipe 12, respectively. The main control room water inlet pipe 3, the rest room water inlet pipe 6, the maintenance room water inlet pipe 9, and the central compartment water inlet pipe 12 are all branch water inlet pipes of the closed-loop chilled water circulation network. One end is connected to the main water inlet pipe 15 to obtain low-temperature chilled water, and the other end extends to the corresponding compartment and is connected to the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit to realize the diversion and transportation of low-temperature chilled water from the main pipeline to the branch lines of each compartment. The main drain pipe 16 is connected to the main control room drain pipe 4, the rest room drain pipe 7, the maintenance room drain pipe 10, and the central compartment drain pipe 13 respectively. The main control room drain pipe 4, the rest room drain pipe 7, the maintenance room drain pipe 10, and the central compartment drain pipe 13 are all branch drain pipes of the closed chilled water circulation network. One end is connected to the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit of the corresponding compartment to receive the high-temperature return water after heat exchange. The other end is connected to the main drain pipe 16 to collect the high-temperature return water into the main pipeline and send it back to the refrigeration unit 1, so as to realize the centralized recovery of the branch return water of each compartment. Each compartment's inlet and outlet pipes are equipped with branch valves 14, which are connected to the corresponding compartment's modular terminal silent heat exchange unit. The individual branch valves 14 on each compartment's inlet and outlet pipes allow for independent control of the chilled water flow and on / off status of each compartment. This enables adjustment of the chilled water supply based on the actual temperature control requirements of each compartment, and also allows for the closure of the corresponding branch valve 14 when a modular terminal silent heat exchange unit in a particular compartment requires maintenance, without affecting the normal temperature control operation of other compartments. Furthermore, the connection of the branch valves 14 ensures a stable supply of chilled water to the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit, facilitating cold exchange.
[0037] In this embodiment, the cooling water circulation loop includes an external inlet pipe 17 and an external outlet pipe 18; one end of the external inlet pipe 17 is connected to the condenser inlet of the refrigeration unit 1, and the other end is connected to the outlet of the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine; one end of the external outlet pipe 18 is connected to the condenser outlet of the refrigeration unit 1, and the other end is connected to the return water of the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine; the cooling water circulation loop may also be configured with an independent small cooling tower module; the small cooling tower module is connected to the external inlet pipe 17 and the external outlet pipe 18.
[0038] Specifically, in this embodiment, the cooling water circulation loop includes an external inlet pipe 17 and an external outlet pipe 18. The external inlet pipe 17 and the external outlet pipe 18 are the core delivery pipes of the cooling water circulation loop. Together, they form a dedicated circulation path for cooling water, specifically supplying cooling water to the condenser of the refrigeration unit 1. This achieves efficient transfer and removal of waste heat from the condenser, forming a key water path support for the refrigeration unit's heat dissipation. One end of the external inlet pipe 17 is connected to the condenser inlet of the refrigeration unit 1, and the other end is connected to the outlet of the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine. As a cooling water supply pipe, the external inlet pipe 17 obtains low-temperature cooling water from the outlet of the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine and continuously delivers it to the condenser inlet of the refrigeration unit 1, providing a low-temperature medium for the heat exchange operation of the condenser and ensuring that the condenser can effectively absorb the waste heat generated during the refrigeration process. One end of the external drain pipe 18 is connected to the condenser outlet of the refrigeration unit 1, and the other end is connected to the return water end of the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine. As a return pipeline for cooling water, the external drain pipe 18 transports the high-temperature cooling water, which has undergone heat exchange and absorbed waste heat in the condenser, back to the return water end of the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine from the condenser outlet. The waste heat is then discharged outwards using the heat dissipation structure of the main cooling water system, achieving the recycling of cooling water and the directional transfer of waste heat. The cooling water circulation loop can also be configured with an independent small cooling tower module. This independent small cooling tower module serves as a backup heat dissipation structure for the cooling water circulation loop, supplementing the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine. When the main cooling water system's heat dissipation capacity is insufficient, or when the temperature control system needs to operate independently, this module can be activated and assume the heat dissipation function, ensuring that the condenser of the refrigeration unit 1 always has good heat dissipation performance and avoiding the impact of insufficient heat dissipation on the operating efficiency of the refrigeration unit. The small cooling tower module is connected to the external water inlet pipe 17 and the external drainage pipe 18. Through the connection with the external water inlet pipe 17 and the external drainage pipe 18, the small cooling tower module can be connected to the water circuit of the cooling water circulation loop, realizing parallel switching with the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine. The heat dissipation structure can be switched without making major modifications to the original water circuit, ensuring that the cooling water circulation loop can stably and efficiently complete the heat dissipation operation under different working conditions.
[0039] In this embodiment, the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit is a standardized air cooler unit, including a coil 19, an EC fan 21, a temperature and humidity sensor, and a unit controller; the water inlet of the coil 19 is connected to the water inlet pipe of the corresponding compartment, and the water outlet is connected to the drain pipe of the corresponding compartment; the air inlet of the EC fan 21 is equipped with an air filter 20; a condensate tray is provided below the coil 19; the condensate tray is connected to a booster pump; the temperature and humidity sensor and the EC fan 21 are both electrically connected to the unit controller; the unit controller is communicatively connected to the intelligent control unit.
[0040] Specifically, the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit is a standardized air cooler unit, including coil 19, EC fan 21, temperature and humidity sensor, and unit controller. The standardized air cooler unit is an integrated heat exchange structure; all components work together to cool the air inside the cabin and regulate its temperature and humidity. Its modular design adapts to the installation requirements of different cabins, while its standardized specifications facilitate disassembly, maintenance, and replacement. It is the core component for achieving independent heat exchange in each cabin. The inlet of coil 19 is connected to the corresponding cabin's inlet pipe, and the outlet is connected to the corresponding cabin's drain pipe. Coil 19 is the core heat exchange component of the standardized air cooler unit. Low-temperature chilled water enters coil 19 from the cabin's inlet pipe, exchanging heat with the air inside the cabin. After heat exchange, the high-temperature chilled water flows from the outlet into the cabin's drain pipe, realizing the transfer of cooling capacity from chilled water to cabin air, providing a basis for cabin cooling. The air inlet of the EC fan 21 is equipped with an air filter 20. The air filter 20 filters the cabin air drawn in by the EC fan 21, intercepting dust, impurities, and other particulate matter in the air, preventing dust from entering the heat exchange structure and affecting heat exchange efficiency, while ensuring the cleanliness of the air in the cabin. The EC fan 21 forces airflow, allowing the air in the cabin to continuously flow through the coil 19, accelerating the heat exchange process and improving the cooling speed of the cabin. A condensate tray is provided below the coil 19. The condensate tray is used to collect the condensate generated by the coil 19 during the heat exchange process. Because the coil 19 is filled with low-temperature chilled water, condensation will occur when the humid and hot air in the cabin comes into contact with the coil 19. The condensate tray can prevent condensate from dripping randomly and causing moisture and water accumulation in the cabin equipment, thus achieving centralized collection of condensate. The condensate pan is connected to a booster pump; the booster pump provides the power to discharge the condensate in the condensate pan, transporting the collected condensate to a designated drainage point, ensuring the condensate pan is always free of water accumulation, preventing condensate buildup from affecting the normal operation of the heat exchange unit, and preventing bacterial growth from affecting the air quality in the cabin. The temperature and humidity sensor and the EC fan 21 are electrically connected to the unit controller; the temperature and humidity sensor can collect temperature and humidity data in the cabin in real time and transmit it to the unit controller. The unit controller dynamically adjusts the operating speed of the EC fan 21 based on the collected temperature and humidity data, achieving precise control of the airflow speed in the cabin and adapting to different temperature and humidity adjustment needs. The unit controller is communicatively connected to the intelligent control unit; the unit controller can upload information such as the operating status of the heat exchange unit in its cabin and the collected temperature and humidity data to the intelligent control unit, while receiving control commands issued by the intelligent control unit, realizing independent control of individual cabin heat exchange units and coordinated control of the overall system control, ensuring that the temperature and humidity adjustment of each cabin matches the overall system load.
[0041] In this embodiment, the bulkhead of the central compartment 11 is equipped with a quick-connect panel with a dust cover; the standardized air cooler unit is provided with a quick-connect self-sealing male plug that matches the quick-connect panel; the quick-connect panel is connected to the central compartment water inlet pipe 12 and the central compartment drain pipe 13 respectively; the standardized air cooler unit is provided with a movable structure, the movable structure is equipped with rollers and the quick-connect self-sealing male plug, and the water circuit is quickly connected to the quick-connect panel through the quick-connect self-sealing male plug.
[0042] Specifically, the central compartment 11 is equipped with a quick-connect panel with a dust cover on its bulkhead. The dust cover seals and protects the water interface of the quick-connect panel, preventing dust, slag, water vapor, and other impurities in the tunnel construction environment from entering the interface and causing blockage or seal failure. This ensures the interface remains clean and intact when not in use, providing a reliable hardware foundation for quick connection of temporary cooling systems. The standardized air cooler unit is equipped with a quick-connect self-sealing male plug that matches the quick-connect panel. The quick-connect self-sealing male plug and the quick-connect panel form a matching quick-connect structure. Their matching design ensures sealing and compatibility during water connection. The self-sealing structure enables automatic sealing during insertion and removal, preventing chilled water leakage during connection and disassembly, and improving the convenience and safety of temporary connection operations. The quick-connect panel is connected to the central compartment water inlet pipe 12 and the central compartment drain pipe 13 respectively. This connection method allows the quick-connect panel to be connected to the chilled water branch of the central compartment, so that the standardized air cooler unit connected by the quick-connect structure can directly form a passage with the closed chilled water circulation network. Low-temperature chilled water can reach the interface panel through the central compartment water inlet pipe 12 and then be transported to the air cooler unit. The return water after heat exchange flows back to the central compartment drain pipe 13 through the interface panel, realizing the effective delivery of cooling capacity. The standardized air cooler unit is equipped with a movable structure, which features rollers and a quick-connect self-sealing male connector. The quick-connect self-sealing male connector connects to the quick-connect panel for rapid water circuit connection. The rollers allow the standardized air cooler unit to move flexibly, enabling it to be quickly pushed to designated work areas according to the temporary operational needs of the central compartment 11. Combined with the quick-connect structure of the quick-connect self-sealing male connector and the quick-connect panel, the air cooler unit can be quickly connected to the chilled water pipeline without complex piping connections, facilitating the rapid deployment of temporary cooling points and meeting the rapid cooling requirements of temporary operations such as blade replacement in the central compartment.
[0043] This embodiment also provides the conventional deployment process of the present invention in the fixed compartment of the tunnel boring machine and the rapid cooling deployment process in the temporary working area of the central compartment. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the specific deployment process is as follows: Standard deployment procedure for the fixed compartment of a tunnel boring machine: M1. Deployment of core cooling equipment: The refrigeration unit 1 will be installed in the designated area of the supporting trolley behind the tunnel boring machine via a shock-absorbing base. This area must meet the space requirements for equipment heat dissipation and maintenance operations, while avoiding areas with strong vibration and dust during the tunnel boring process, to ensure the stable operation of the refrigeration unit 1.
[0044] M2. Deployment of Closed-Loop Chilled Water Circulation Pipeline: Along the tunnel boring machine (TBM) trolley frame, the main inlet pipe 15 and main outlet pipe 16 of the closed-loop chilled water circulation pipeline are arranged. A ring / branched pipeline network is constructed using the principle of parallel arrangement. The pipeline network is fixed to the TBM structure using seismic bracing, and metal flexible hose / corrugated pipe compensators are installed at key parts of the pipeline. The main inlet pipe 15, main outlet pipe 16, and inlet and outlet pipes of each compartment are all wrapped with rubber and plastic insulation materials to reduce cooling loss. A variable frequency speed-regulating circulating water pump is installed on the main inlet pipe 15. After completion, the main inlet pipe 15 and main outlet pipe 16 are connected to the evaporator inlet and outlet of the chiller unit 1 to form a basic closed-loop chilled water circulation circuit.
[0045] M3. Deployment of branch pipelines in each compartment: Main control room water inlet pipe 3, rest room water inlet pipe 6, maintenance room water inlet pipe 9, and central compartment water inlet pipe 12 are led out from main water inlet pipe 15. Main control room drainage pipe 4, rest room drainage pipe 7, maintenance room drainage pipe 10, and central compartment drainage pipe 13 are led out from main drainage pipe 16. Each branch pipeline is extended to the designated location in the corresponding compartment. Branch valves 14 are installed on all compartment water inlet and drainage pipes to realize the on / off and flow fine-tuning control of each branch waterway.
[0046] M4. Cooling water circulation loop deployment: Construct a cooling water circulation loop consisting of an external inlet pipe 17 and an external outlet pipe 18. Connect one end of the external inlet pipe 17 to the condenser inlet of the chiller unit 1 and the other end to the outlet of the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine. Connect one end of the external outlet pipe 18 to the condenser outlet of the chiller unit 1 and the other end to the return water of the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine. Reserve connection interfaces for independent small cooling tower modules on the cooling water circulation loop as needed. After completion, a water path for the external discharge of refrigeration waste heat will be formed.
[0047] M5. Modular terminal heat exchange unit deployment: Standardized air cooler units are installed in fixed compartments such as the main control room 2, rest room 5, and maintenance room 8. The water inlet and outlet of the coil 19 in the unit are connected to the water inlet and outlet pipes of the corresponding compartments through branch valves 14 to complete the water circuit connection. At the same time, power is connected to each unit to ensure that components such as EC fan 21, booster pump, and temperature and humidity sensor are powered normally.
[0048] M6. Deployment and Debugging of Intelligent Control Unit: Install the main controller of the intelligent control unit in the operating area of the main control room 2 of the tunnel boring machine, and establish electrical / communication connections with the refrigeration unit 1, the variable frequency speed-regulating circulating water pump, the unit controllers of each standardized air cooler unit, and the power components of the cooling water circulation loop. After completing the hardware connection, perform overall system debugging, input the preset temperature and humidity parameters of each compartment, and test the signal interaction and operation control functions of each unit to ensure normal linkage of the entire system.
[0049] Rapid cooling deployment process for temporary work areas in the central warehouse: N1. Preparations before operation: When temporary high-temperature operations such as tool replacement and equipment maintenance are required in the main control room drain pipe 411 of the central warehouse, the operator will push the mobile standardized air cooler unit equipped with rollers to the operation area of the main control room drain pipe 411 of the central warehouse and check the status of the unit's quick self-sealing male plug and water interface to ensure that there is no damage or blockage.
[0050] N2. Quick-connect structure opening: Open the dust cover of the quick-connect panel pre-installed on the bulkhead of the main control room drain pipe 411 in the central compartment, check the cleanliness and sealing status of the interface panel inside, and prepare for quick water connection.
[0051] N3. Water and electrical circuit connection: Connect the quick-sealing male plug of the mobile standardized air cooler unit to the quick-connect panel of the drain pipe 411 in the central control room. The self-sealing structure enables the water circuit to be quickly sealed and connected, allowing the mobile unit to be connected to the closed chilled water circulation network. At the same time, connect the mobile standardized air cooler unit to the temporary power supply on site to ensure the unit is powered normally.
[0052] N4. Automatic system identification and control: When the water path is connected, the intelligent control unit will automatically detect the water path connection signal of the main control room drain pipe 411 and the online signal of the mobile unit, and quickly incorporate the unit into the overall system control system without the need for manual reconfiguration of parameters.
[0053] N5. Temporary Cooling Start-up: Operators can set the target temperature and humidity values for temporary operations via the intelligent control unit or the mobile unit local controller. The system will immediately start the cooling operation of the unit. Low-temperature chilled water flows into the unit coil through the central warehouse inlet pipe 412 and the quick interface panel, working in conjunction with the fan 421 to achieve rapid cooling of the air inside the central warehouse, meeting the cooling requirements of temporary operations.
[0054] N6. Post-operation recovery: After the temporary operation is completed, first shut down the operation function of the mobile standardized air cooler unit through the intelligent control unit, then disconnect the power supply, unplug the quick self-sealing male plug, and the self-sealing structure between the male plug and the interface panel will automatically close to prevent chilled water leakage; then push the mobile unit to the designated storage area, cover it with the dust cover of the quick interface panel, and complete the recovery of the temporary refrigeration deployment, and the system will be restored to normal operation.
[0055] In summary, the operating principle of this invention is as follows: This invention relates to a precision temperature control system for tunnel boring machine (TBM) compartments based on a silent chilled water medium. The system uses a closed-loop chilled water circulation as its core energy delivery method. It relies on the interconnected structure of the refrigeration unit, closed-loop chilled water circulation network, modular terminal silent heat exchange units, and cooling water circulation loop. Through the intelligent control unit's comprehensive control of the entire chain, it achieves silent cooling of each TBM compartment, directional exhaust of waste heat, and on-demand distribution of cooling capacity. Simultaneously, it can quickly respond to the cooling needs of temporary work areas such as the central compartment. The overall operation revolves around the core logic of cold energy preparation, silent delivery, terminal heat exchange, waste heat exhaust, and intelligent control. Each unit works collaboratively to complete the temperature control operation. The specific operating principle is as follows: T1. Centralized Cold Generation: After the system starts, the intelligent control unit first completes initialization and reads the preset temperature and humidity parameters of each compartment. Then, it starts the refrigeration unit 1 to enter the working state and generates low-temperature chilled water as the centralized cold source of the system to provide the cold generation basis for cooling each compartment. The compressor of the refrigeration unit 1 adopts the variable frequency drive mode, which can dynamically adjust the operating frequency according to the total cooling load of the subsequent system to realize the cold generation on demand.
[0056] T2. Silent Cold Water Delivery: The low-temperature chilled water prepared by the refrigeration unit 1 enters the main inlet pipe 15 of the closed-loop chilled water circulation network. It then passes through the main control room inlet pipe 3, the rest room inlet pipe 6, and other branch inlet pipes of each compartment. Driven by the variable frequency speed-regulating circulating water pump, it is precisely delivered to the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit of each compartment through the branch valve 14. The main inlet pipe 15 and the main drain pipe 16 are arranged in the same direction and are equipped with rubber and plastic insulation wrapping and shock-resistant compensation structure, which reduces the loss during the cold water delivery process and reduces the noise of water flow. At the same time, the branch valve 14 can independently regulate the chilled water flow of each compartment to achieve differentiated distribution of cold water.
[0057] T3. Cabin Terminal Heat Exchange: After the low-temperature chilled water enters the coil 19 of the standardized air cooler unit, the unit controller controls the EC fan 21 to start, drawing in cabin air and filtering it through the air filter 20. The filtered air flows through the coil 19 to complete heat exchange with the low-temperature chilled water, and the cooled air is sent back to the cabin to achieve cooling. The condensate generated during the heat exchange process is collected by the condensate pan and then discharged to a designated point by the lift pump to avoid water accumulation affecting equipment operation. Temperature and humidity sensors collect cabin temperature and humidity data in real time, and the unit controller dynamically adjusts the speed of the EC fan 21 according to the data to adapt to the real-time temperature control requirements of the cabin.
[0058] T4. Chilled Water Circulation and Recovery: After heat exchange with the cabin air, the high-temperature chilled water flows from the outlet of coil 19 into the branch drain pipes of each cabin, and is collected in the main drain pipe 16 before flowing back to the refrigeration unit 1. It is then cooled back into low-temperature chilled water and re-enters the closed-loop chilled water circulation network to complete the cold energy transfer, forming a closed-loop chilled water circulation system. This achieves the recycling of cold energy and continuously provides cold energy to each cabin.
[0059] T5. Directional Discharge of Refrigeration Waste Heat: During the process of generating cooling capacity, the condenser of the refrigeration unit 1 will generate a large amount of waste heat. The external water inlet pipe 17 of the cooling water circulation loop introduces low-temperature cooling water from the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine. The water flows through the condenser to complete heat exchange. The high-temperature cooling water that has absorbed the waste heat flows back to the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine through the external drain pipe 18. The main cooling water system then transports the waste heat to the outside of the tunnel for dissipation. If the heat dissipation capacity of the main cooling water system is insufficient, an independent small cooling tower module can be activated and connected to the external water inlet pipe 17 and the external drain pipe 18 to complete auxiliary heat dissipation, thereby achieving 100% directional discharge of refrigeration waste heat and preventing heat from being discharged into the tunnel.
[0060] T6. Intelligent Control of the Entire System: The intelligent control unit collects real-time data on the operating status of each standardized air cooler unit, the temperature and pressure of the chilled water supply and return main pipes, and the ambient temperature. It calculates the total cooling load of the system through weighted averages and predicts short-term load trends. Based on the total cooling load and cooling water temperature, the intelligent control unit dynamically adjusts the outlet water temperature of chiller unit 1 and the compressor operating frequency using a fuzzy PID control algorithm. Simultaneously, it regulates the frequency of the variable-frequency circulating water pumps in the closed-loop chilled water circulation network to achieve adaptive chilled water supply with variable flow rate. When there are differences in temperature control requirements among different compartments, the intelligent control unit fine-tunes the chilled water opening of each compartment through branch valve 14 based on preset compartment priorities, ensuring that the cooling needs of critical compartments are met first. Each unit controller communicates with the intelligent control unit in real-time, uploading compartment temperature and humidity data and receiving control commands, forming a full variable-frequency linkage control system from cold source to distribution to terminal, maximizing system energy efficiency.
[0061] T7. Rapid Cooling in Temporary Work Areas: When the central compartment 11 requires temporary cooling, such as for tool replacement, a mobile standardized air cooler unit with wheels is pushed to the work area. The dust cover of the quick-connect panel on the central compartment wall is opened, and the unit's quick-connect self-sealing male plug is connected to the quick-connect panel to achieve rapid water circuit connection. After the intelligent control unit detects the new branch connection signal, it automatically incorporates the mobile unit into the control system. After setting the temperature and humidity parameters, the unit immediately starts to complete the heat exchange operation, achieving "plug-and-play" rapid cooling in the temporary work area. After the operation is completed, the unit can be quickly disassembled, and the dust protection of the interface panel can be restored without affecting the original operating status of the system. Example
[0062] See Figure 4 Embodiment 2 of the present invention also provides a method for precise temperature control of the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cooling water medium, including: S1. Start the intelligent control unit and complete the initialization of the main controller; read the preset temperature and humidity parameters of each functional compartment of the tunnel boring machine through the main controller; start the refrigeration unit, closed-loop chilled water circulation network and cooling water circulation loop to enter the standby state; S2. The main controller collects real-time data on the operating status of all modular terminal silent heat exchange units, the temperature and pressure of the chilled water supply and return main pipes, the ambient temperature, and the temperature of the shield machine's main cooling water system. Based on the collected real-time data, the total cooling load of the current system is obtained through weighted calculation, and the short-term load change trend is predicted. S3. Based on the total cooling load and cooling water temperature, the main controller determines the optimal outlet water temperature target value and compressor operating frequency of the chiller unit through a fuzzy PID control algorithm, and issues adjustment commands to the chiller unit to achieve matching between the cold source output and the actual load; S4. Based on the pressure difference between chilled water supply and return and the target flow rate, the main controller dynamically adjusts the operating frequency of the variable frequency speed-regulating circulating water pump in the closed chilled water circulation network to achieve adaptive water supply with variable flow rate. S5. The main controller receives water volume adjustment requests from each modular terminal silent heat exchange unit. Based on the set compartment priority, it fine-tunes the opening of the water inlet pipe of each compartment through the branch valve to ensure that the cooling needs of the key compartments are met first. S6. Each modular terminal silent heat exchange unit collects real-time cabin temperature and humidity data through the unit controller; based on the difference between the preset temperature and humidity parameters and the real-time data, the speed of the EC fan is adjusted, and the cooling demand is fed back to the main controller. S7 continuously predicts the cooling load and regulates the temperature of each compartment to achieve dynamic balance adjustment of the temperature control system.
[0063] In this embodiment, in step S1, the intelligent control unit is started and the main controller is initialized; the temperature and humidity preset parameters of each functional compartment of the tunnel boring machine are read through the main controller; the refrigeration unit, closed-loop chilled water circulation network and cooling water circulation loop are started to enter the standby state.
[0064] Specifically, the intelligent control unit, as the core of the system's overall control, first completes the main controller's program self-test, hardware communication link detection, and parameter initialization after startup to ensure normal communication among all sensing and execution components. Subsequently, the main controller reads the pre-entered temperature and humidity preset parameters of various functional compartments such as the main control room, rest room, maintenance room, and central compartment of the tunnel boring machine from the built-in storage module. These parameters can be set and modified in advance according to construction conditions and operational requirements. After completing the parameter reading, the main controller sends start commands to the refrigeration unit, the variable frequency speed-regulating circulating water pump of the closed-loop chilled water circulation network, and the power components of the cooling water circulation loop. Each piece of equipment starts under low load and completes preparatory operations such as pipeline filling and pressure regulation, entering the standby state to prepare the entire system for subsequent temperature control operations.
[0065] In this embodiment, in step S2, the main controller collects real-time data on the operating status of all modular terminal silent heat exchange units, the temperature and pressure of the chilled water supply and return main pipes, the ambient temperature, and the temperature of the tunnel boring machine's main cooling water system. Based on the collected real-time data, the total cooling load of the current system is obtained through weighted calculation, and the short-term load change trend is predicted.
[0066] Specifically, the main controller establishes real-time data interaction with the unit controllers of each modular terminal silent heat exchange unit through a communication bus, collecting the operating status of each unit, such as EC fan speed, operating power, and cooling demand. At the same time, it collects real-time temperature and pressure data from each monitoring point through temperature and pressure sensors installed on the chilled water supply and return main pipes, as well as sensors for the tunnel environment and main cooling water system, ensuring the comprehensiveness and real-time nature of data collection. After data collection, the main controller processes the collected data according to a preset weighted calculation model, combining the load weight of each compartment, the ambient temperature correction coefficient, and the equipment heating correction coefficient, to obtain the actual total cooling load of the current system. Based on historical load change data and the tunnel boring machine's tunneling conditions, it uses a linear prediction algorithm to calculate the short-term (5-10 minutes) trend of system cooling load change, providing data support for subsequent precise adjustment of the cold source.
[0067] The formula for calculating the total cooling load of the current system is as follows:
[0068] In the formula, This represents the total cooling load of the system. n The number of functional compartments in the tunnel boring machine; For the first i Load weighting coefficient for each compartment; For the first i Real-time cooling load of each compartment; This is a correction factor for ambient temperature. As the environmental heat transfer cooling load; This is the equipment heating correction factor; This refers to the cooling load of the equipment.
[0069] The short-term load change trend is calculated using a linear prediction formula, which is:
[0070] In the formula, for Forecast total cooling load after the time period; For the current moment t The total cooling load of the system; This is a correction factor for the rate of load change; This represents the current rate of change in cooling load. This is a correction factor for tunneling conditions; for Changes in tunneling power of the tunnel boring machine over a given time period.
[0071] In this embodiment, in step S3, based on the total cooling load and cooling water temperature, the main controller determines the optimal outlet water temperature target value and compressor operating frequency of the chiller unit through a fuzzy PID control algorithm, and issues adjustment commands to the chiller unit to achieve matching between the cold source output and the actual load.
[0072] Specifically, the main controller uses the current total cooling load calculated in step S2 and the collected real-time cooling water temperature as input parameters for the fuzzy PID control algorithm. The algorithm combines preset proportional, integral, and derivative coefficients to perform multi-dimensional calculations and optimizations on the outlet water temperature of the chiller unit and the compressor operating frequency. It abandons the coarse mode of traditional fixed-frequency control and calculates the optimal outlet water temperature target value and compressor operating frequency that match the actual cooling load of the current system. After the calculation is completed, the main controller sends precise adjustment commands to the chiller unit. The chiller unit dynamically adjusts the compressor operating frequency according to the commands, changes the cooling capacity output, and adjusts the chilled water outlet temperature at the same time, so that the cold source output accurately matches the actual cooling load demand of the system, avoids waste or insufficient cooling capacity, and achieves efficient utilization of the cold source.
[0073] In the process of determining the optimal outlet water temperature target value of the chiller unit through the fuzzy PID control algorithm, the calculation formula for the optimal outlet water temperature target value is as follows:
[0074] In the formula, This represents the target value for the optimal outlet water temperature of the chiller unit. This refers to the basic outlet water temperature of the refrigeration unit. This is the proportionality coefficient; The integral coefficient; These are the differential coefficients; This is the real-time deviation value; This is the integral term for the deviation; This is the differential term of the deviation.
[0075] In this embodiment, in step S4, based on the pressure difference between the chilled water supply and return and the target flow rate, the main controller dynamically adjusts the operating frequency of the variable frequency speed-regulating circulating water pump in the closed chilled water circulation network to achieve adaptive water supply with variable flow rate.
[0076] Specifically, the main controller monitors the pressure difference between the chilled water supply and return mains in real time. Combined with the optimal outlet water temperature of the chiller unit determined in step S3, it calculates the target flow rate of chilled water required by the current system, which serves as the basis for adjusting the variable frequency speed-regulating circulating water pump. When the supply and return water pressure difference is too large and the actual flow rate is higher than the target flow rate, the main controller lowers the pump operating frequency to reduce the chilled water delivery flow rate. When the supply and return water pressure difference is too small and the actual flow rate is lower than the target flow rate, the main controller raises the pump operating frequency to increase the chilled water delivery flow rate. Through dynamic and precise adjustment of the pump frequency, the variable flow rate adaptive water supply of chilled water is achieved, avoiding valve throttling losses and energy waste caused by constant flow, while ensuring stable pressure and sufficient flow of chilled water in each compartment branch.
[0077] In this embodiment, in step S5, the main controller receives water volume adjustment requests from each modular terminal silent heat exchange unit. Based on the set compartment priority, it fine-tunes the opening of the water inlet pipe of each compartment through the branch valve to ensure that the cooling needs of the key compartments are met first.
[0078] Specifically, each modular terminal silent heat exchange unit's unit controller sends a chilled water flow adjustment request to the main controller when it determines that its own cooling demand is not being met, based on real-time cabin temperature and humidity data. After receiving and aggregating all cabin adjustment requests, the main controller retrieves the pre-set cabin priority rules and prioritizes each request. Subsequently, the main controller issues opening adjustment commands to the branch valves on the inlet pipes of each cabin, appropriately increasing the valve opening for high-priority critical cabins to increase the chilled water supply and prioritize meeting their cooling needs, and finely adjusting the valve opening for lower-priority cabins as needed. Under the premise of ensuring the basic temperature control requirements of each cabin, the system achieves differentiated and precise allocation of chilled water flow, ensuring the rational utilization of the system's cooling capacity.
[0079] In this embodiment, in step S6, each modular terminal silent heat exchange unit collects real-time data of cabin temperature and humidity through the unit controller; based on the difference between the preset temperature and humidity parameters and the real-time data, the speed of the EC fan is adjusted, and the cooling demand is fed back to the main controller.
[0080] Specifically, the temperature and humidity sensors of each modular terminal silent heat exchange unit continuously collect real-time temperature and humidity data of the compartment and transmit the data to the unit controller in real time. The unit controller compares the collected real-time temperature and humidity data with the preset temperature and humidity parameters of the compartment issued by the main controller in step S1 to obtain the temperature and humidity difference. If the real-time temperature is higher than the preset temperature, the unit controller increases the speed of the EC fan proportionally according to the difference to accelerate the air flow and heat exchange efficiency in the compartment. If the real-time temperature is lower than the preset temperature, the EC fan speed is decreased proportionally to reduce energy consumption. At the same time, the unit controller calculates the actual cooling demand of the unit based on the temperature and humidity difference and the operating status of the EC fan, and feeds back the demand to the main controller in real time to provide accurate terminal data support for the main controller's subsequent calculation of the total system cooling load and adjustment of the cooling source.
[0081] In this embodiment, in step S7, the cooling load prediction and temperature control of each compartment are performed cyclically to achieve dynamic balance adjustment of the temperature control system.
[0082] Specifically, the main controller uses steps S2 to S6 as a complete temperature control adjustment cycle. After completing a single adjustment, it immediately restarts the entire process of data acquisition, load calculation, cold source adjustment, water pump speed regulation, valve fine-tuning, and terminal feedback, forming a continuous cyclic control. During the cycle, the main controller can receive real-time signals of changes in the tunnel boring machine's construction conditions, tunnel ambient temperature fluctuations, and changes in the cooling load caused by changes in personnel and equipment in each compartment. It dynamically adjusts various control parameters according to the changes, ensuring that the cold source output of the refrigeration unit, the flow rate of chilled water, and the distribution of cooling capacity in each compartment are always matched with the actual cooling load of the system. Ultimately, this achieves a dynamic balance between the supply and demand of cooling capacity in the entire temperature control system, ensuring that the temperature and humidity of each compartment remain stable within the preset range, while maximizing the system's operating efficiency.
[0083] The application scenarios of this invention are as follows: In urban subway tunnel shield construction scenarios, this invention can provide quiet and stable temperature regulation for fixed compartments such as the main control room and rest room inside the shield machine, while quickly responding to the temporary cooling needs of the central compartment cutterhead replacement, thus improving the construction environment inside the tunnel.
[0084] In the scenario of shield tunneling in mountainous highways, this invention can effectively address the problem of high temperature in the chamber caused by high ground temperature strata, realize the directional discharge of cooling waste heat, avoid the accumulation of heat load in the tunnel, and ensure the normal operation of equipment and the comfort of personnel.
[0085] In the context of shield tunnel construction for water conservancy projects, this invention leverages the quiet transport characteristics of a closed-loop cold water circulation system to reduce the interference of equipment operating noise on on-site communication. Furthermore, the full frequency conversion linkage design significantly saves energy consumption, meeting the energy-saving requirements of long-distance tunnel construction.
[0086] In the context of shield tunneling in submarine tunnels, this invention can operate stably in harsh construction environments with high humidity and high dust. The independent air circulation in each compartment avoids cross-contamination, and the modular heat exchange unit is easy to maintain, making it suitable for the complex working conditions of submarine tunnel construction.
[0087] In the context of railway tunnel shield construction, this invention can dynamically adjust the cooling output according to changes in the tunneling speed and operating power of the shield machine, matching the load changes during construction and providing reliable environmental temperature protection for continuous tunneling operations.
[0088] In the construction of tunnels with ultra-large diameter shield tunneling machines, this invention can simultaneously meet the differentiated temperature regulation needs of multiple functional compartments, and ensure the cooling needs of key operating areas by relying on the priority setting of compartments, thereby improving the overall construction efficiency.
[0089] In the context of tunnel boring machine (TBM) construction of urban underground utility tunnels, this invention, due to its small pipeline space occupation and strong layout adaptability, can be deployed to fit the compact space characteristics of the TBM, achieving efficient cold energy delivery and stable temperature regulation.
[0090] In the context of deep and long tunnel shield tunneling, this invention can compensate for the insufficient effect of simple ventilation and cooling. It achieves effective cooling of each compartment through closed-loop cold water circulation and reuses the main cooling system of the shield machine for heat dissipation, thereby improving the overall operational reliability of the system.
[0091] The present invention has been described in a relatively specific and detailed manner above through general descriptions and specific embodiments. It should be understood that, based on the technical concept of the present invention, several conventional adjustments or further innovations can be made to these specific embodiments; however, as long as they do not depart from the technical concept of the present invention, the technical solutions obtained by these conventional adjustments or further innovations also fall within the protection scope of the claims of the present invention.
Claims
1. A precision temperature control system for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent, cold water medium, characterized in that, The system includes a refrigeration unit (1), a closed-loop chilled water circulation network, a modular terminal silent heat exchange unit, a cooling water circulation loop, and an intelligent control unit. The refrigeration unit (1) is connected to the main control room (2), rest room (5), maintenance room (8), and central compartment (11) of the tunnel boring machine through the closed-loop chilled water circulation network. The closed-loop chilled water circulation network is connected to the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit through a branch valve (14). The cooling water circulation loop is connected to the condenser of the refrigeration unit (1) and connected to the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine. The intelligent control unit is electrically connected to the refrigeration unit (1), the closed-loop chilled water circulation network, the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit, and the cooling water circulation loop, respectively. The closed-loop chilled water circulation network includes a main inlet pipe (15) and a main drain pipe (16); the main inlet pipe (15) is connected to the main control room inlet pipe (3), the rest room inlet pipe (6), the maintenance room inlet pipe (9) and the central compartment inlet pipe (12) respectively; the main drain pipe (16) is connected to the main control room drain pipe (4), the rest room drain pipe (7), the maintenance room drain pipe (10) and the central compartment drain pipe (13) respectively; each compartment's inlet and outlet pipes are equipped with branch valves (14), and are connected to the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit of the corresponding compartment through the branch valves (14).
2. The precise temperature control system for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cooling water medium according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cooling water circulation loop includes an external inlet pipe (17) and an external outlet pipe (18); one end of the external inlet pipe (17) is connected to the condenser inlet of the refrigeration unit (1), and the other end is connected to the outlet of the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine; one end of the external outlet pipe (18) is connected to the condenser outlet of the refrigeration unit (1), and the other end is connected to the return water of the main cooling water system of the tunnel boring machine; the cooling water circulation loop may also be configured with an independent small cooling tower module; the small cooling tower module is connected to the external inlet pipe (17) and the external outlet pipe (18).
3. The precise temperature control system for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cooling water medium according to claim 2, characterized in that, The modular terminal silent heat exchange unit is a standardized air cooler unit, including a coil (19), an EC fan (21), a temperature and humidity sensor, and a unit controller; the water inlet of the coil (19) is connected to the water inlet pipe of the corresponding compartment, and the water outlet is connected to the drain pipe of the corresponding compartment; the air inlet of the EC fan (21) is equipped with an air filter (20); a condensate pan is provided below the coil (19); the condensate pan is connected to a booster pump; the temperature and humidity sensor and the EC fan (21) are electrically connected to the unit controller; the unit controller is communicatively connected to the intelligent control unit.
4. The precise temperature control system for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cold water medium according to claim 3, characterized in that, The central compartment (11) is equipped with a quick-connect panel with a dust cover on its bulkhead; the standardized air cooler unit is equipped with a quick-connect self-sealing male plug that matches the quick-connect panel; the quick-connect panel is connected to the central compartment water inlet pipe (12) and the central compartment drain pipe (13) respectively; the standardized air cooler unit is equipped with a movable structure, the movable structure is equipped with rollers and the quick-connect self-sealing male plug, and the water circuit is quickly connected to the quick-connect panel through the quick-connect self-sealing male plug.
5. The precise temperature control system for the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cooling water medium according to claim 4, characterized in that, The intelligent control unit is equipped with a main controller; the main controller is used to collect the temperature and pressure of the chilled water supply and return main pipe, the operating status and required temperature of the modular terminal silent heat exchange unit, the ambient temperature, and the temperature signal of the tunnel boring machine's main cooling water system.
6. A method for precise temperature control of the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cooling water medium, characterized in that, include: Start the intelligent control unit and complete the initialization of the main controller; read the preset temperature and humidity parameters of each functional compartment of the tunnel boring machine through the main controller; Start the refrigeration unit, closed-loop chilled water circulation network and cooling water circulation loop to enter standby mode; The main controller collects real-time data on the operating status of all modular terminal silent heat exchange units, the temperature and pressure of the chilled water supply and return main pipes, the ambient temperature, and the temperature of the tunnel boring machine's main cooling water system. Based on the collected real-time data, the total cooling load of the current system is obtained through weighted calculation, and the short-term load change trend is predicted. Based on the total cooling load and cooling water temperature, the main controller determines the optimal outlet water temperature target value and compressor operating frequency of the chiller unit through a fuzzy PID control algorithm, and issues adjustment commands to the chiller unit to achieve matching between the cold source output and the actual load; Based on the pressure difference between the chilled water supply and return and the target flow rate, the main controller dynamically adjusts the operating frequency of the variable frequency speed-regulating circulating water pump in the closed chilled water circulation network to achieve adaptive water supply with variable flow rate. The main controller receives water volume adjustment requests from each modular terminal silent heat exchange unit. Based on the set compartment priority, it fine-tunes the opening of the water inlet pipe of each compartment through the branch valve to ensure that the cooling needs of the key compartments are met first. Each modular terminal silent heat exchange unit collects real-time cabin temperature and humidity data through the unit controller; based on the difference between the preset temperature and humidity parameters and the real-time data, the speed of the EC fan is adjusted, and the cooling demand is fed back to the main controller; The system continuously predicts cooling load and regulates the temperature of each compartment to achieve dynamic balance adjustment of the temperature control system.
7. The method for precise temperature control of the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cooling water medium according to claim 6, characterized in that, If the central warehouse generates temporary cooling demand, the mobile standardized air cooler unit is connected to the quick interface panel to achieve water circuit connection; after the main controller detects the new branch connection signal, it incorporates the new branch into the control system; the temperature and humidity parameters are set according to the cooling demand, and the temperature control of the temporary work area is adjusted.
8. The method for precise temperature control of the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cooling water medium according to claim 7, characterized in that, The formula for calculating the total cooling load of the current system is: , In the formula, This represents the total cooling load of the system. n The number of functional compartments in the tunnel boring machine; For the first i Load weighting coefficient for each compartment; For the first i Real-time cooling load of each compartment; This is a correction factor for ambient temperature. As the environmental heat transfer cooling load; This is the equipment heating correction factor; This refers to the cooling load of the equipment.
9. The method for precise temperature control of the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cooling water medium according to claim 8, characterized in that, In determining the optimal outlet water temperature target value of the chiller unit using the fuzzy PID control algorithm, the calculation formula for the optimal outlet water temperature target value is as follows: , In the formula, This represents the target value for the optimal outlet water temperature of the chiller unit. This refers to the basic outlet water temperature of the refrigeration unit. This is the proportionality coefficient; The integral coefficient; These are the differential coefficients; This is the real-time deviation value; This is the integral term for the deviation; This is the differential term of the deviation.
10. The method for precise temperature control of the tunnel boring machine cabin based on a silent cooling water medium according to claim 9, characterized in that, The short-term load change trend is calculated using a linear prediction formula, which is: , In the formula, for Forecast total cooling load after the time period; For the current moment t The total cooling load of the system; This is a correction factor for the rate of load change; This represents the current rate of change in cooling load. This is a correction factor for tunneling conditions; for Changes in tunneling power of the tunnel boring machine over a given time period.