Cutting tool replacement device, and tunnel boring machine

Abstract

In addition to easily changing cutting tools, this also makes it possible to easily change seals. [Solution] The cutting tool 30 replacement device 2 comprises a holding member 40 to which the cutting tool 30 is interchangeably attached, a first seal 41 provided on the first outer surface F1 of the holding member 40, and a second seal 42 provided on the second outer surface F2 of the holding member 40. The holding member 40 is movable in the front-rear direction of the excavator body and is rotatable around a pivot axis B1 that intersects in the front-rear direction. The replacement device 2 is capable of transitioning between a first state in which the cutting tool 30 partially protrudes from the front plate 21 through a first opening 21a of the front plate 21, the space between the front plate 21 and the first outer surface F1 is sealed by the first seal 41, and the cutting tool 30 can excavate, and a second state in which the cutting tool 30 is retracted behind the front plate 21, the space between the front plate 21 and the second outer surface F2 is sealed by the second seal 42, and the cutting tool 30 can be replaced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a cutting tool replacement device and a tunnel boring machine.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, a tunnel boring machine excavates a tunnel by rotating a cutter head and forming a face in the front ground. The cutter head is attached to the front end of a cylindrical boring machine body, and the tunnel is excavated by advancing the boring machine body forward while rotating the cutter head.

[0003] Here, the cutting tools provided on the cutter head wear out as the ground is excavated. Therefore, in tunnel excavation, for example, when the excavation distance is long, it is necessary to replace the cutting tools. Thus, an exchange device for replacing the cutting tools may be provided in the tunnel boring machine. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technique related to an exchange device for cutting tools.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006] Therefore, in view of these problems, the present invention aims to provide a cutting tool replacement device and a tunnel boring machine that allow for easy replacement of seals in addition to the replacement of cutting tools. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the above problems, the cutting tool replacement device of the present invention is a cutting tool replacement device for a tunnel boring machine, wherein the tunnel boring machine comprises a cylindrical boring machine body, a cutter head rotatably provided at the front end of the boring machine body, and a rotary cutting tool provided on the cutter head, the cutter head having a front plate forming the front surface of the cutter head and a first opening formed in the front plate, the cutting tool replacement device comprising a holding member to which the cutting tool is interchangeably attached and which holds the cutting tool, an annular first seal provided on the first outer surface of the holding member on the cutting tool side and arranged to surround the cutting tool, and an annular second seal provided on the second outer surface of the holding member that intersects with the first outer surface, the holding member is a boring machine The main body is movable in the front-rear direction and rotatable around a pivot axis that intersects the front-rear direction. The cutting tool exchange device is transitionable between a first state in which drilling is possible with the cutting tool and a second state in which the cutting tool can be exchanged. In the first state, the first outer surface of the holding member faces the front plate, the cutting tool partially protrudes from the front plate through a first opening in the front plate, and the first seal contacts the edge of the front plate around the first opening, thereby sealing the space between the edge of the front plate and the first outer surface. In the second state, the second outer surface of the holding member faces the front plate, the cutting tool is retracted behind the front plate, and the second seal contacts the edge of the front plate around the first opening, thereby sealing the space between the edge of the front plate and the second outer surface.

[0008] The transition from the first state to the second state may be performed by the holding member moving backward, then rotating in the first rotational direction, and then moving forward. The transition from the second state to the first state may be performed by the holding member moving backward, then rotating in the second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, and then moving forward.

[0009] The device is positioned behind the front plate and includes a housing that accommodates the retaining member. The housing may be provided with a second opening that connects the inside and outside of the housing, and a lid member that opens and closes the second opening.

[0010] The retaining member is supported by a support member from the rear, and the retaining member has a first through hole that penetrates from a first outer surface to a third outer surface on the opposite side of the retaining member's outer surface, and the support member has a second through hole that penetrates the support member in the front-rear direction, and in the first state, the front and rear of the cutter head may be in communication through the first through hole and the second through hole.

[0011] The retaining member comprises an annular third seal provided on the third outer surface of the retaining member and an annular fourth seal provided on the fourth outer surface of the retaining member opposite to the second outer surface, wherein in the first state, the third outer surface faces the front surface of the support member, the third seal abuts against the edge of the support member around the second through hole on the front surface of the support member, and the space between the edge of the support member and the third outer surface is sealed by the third seal; and in the second state, the fourth outer surface faces the front surface of the support member, the fourth seal abuts against the edge of the support member around the second through hole on the front surface of the support member, and the space between the edge of the support member and the fourth outer surface is sealed by the fourth seal.

[0012] The first seal, second seal, third seal, and fourth seal may be provided in a replaceable manner.

[0013] At least one of the first seal, second seal, third seal, and fourth seal may include an annular inner seal and an annular outer seal surrounding the outer periphery of the inner seal.

[0014] An injection mechanism may be provided for injecting liquid into the space between the inner seal and the outer seal.

[0015] To solve the above problems, the tunnel boring machine of the present invention is equipped with the above-mentioned replacement device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the present invention, in addition to replacing the cutting tool, the seal can also be easily replaced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the overall configuration of a tunnel boring machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a schematic diagram showing the schematic configuration of an exchange device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the A1-A1 cross-section of FIG. 2. [Figure 4] It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the A2-A2 cross-section of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] It is a schematic diagram showing the state during the transition of the exchange device according to an embodiment of the present invention from the first state to the second state. [Figure 6] It is a schematic diagram showing the state during the transition of the exchange device according to an embodiment of the present invention from the first state to the second state. [Figure 7] It is a schematic diagram showing the second state of the exchange device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a schematic diagram showing the schematic configuration of an exchange device according to a modified example of the present invention. [Figure 9] It is a schematic diagram showing the second state of the exchange device according to a modified example of the present invention. [Figure 10] It is a schematic diagram showing another example of the situation where liquid is injected by the injection mechanism of the exchange device according to a modified example of the present invention. [Figure 11] It is a schematic diagram showing another example of the situation where liquid is injected by the injection mechanism of the exchange device according to a modified example of the present invention.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0018] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The dimensions, materials, and other specific numerical values shown in such embodiments are merely examples for facilitating the understanding of the invention, and do not limit the present invention unless otherwise specified. In the present specification and drawings, elements having substantially the same functions and configurations are denoted by the same reference numerals to omit redundant explanations, and elements not directly related to the present invention are omitted from the illustration.

[0019] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the overall configuration of the tunnel boring machine 1 according to this embodiment. In Figure 1, arrow F indicates the forward direction (i.e., direction of travel) of the tunnel boring machine 1, and arrow B indicates the rear direction of the tunnel boring machine 1. In other words, arrow F in Figure 1 points toward the tunnel face, and arrow B points toward the tunnel entrance.

[0020] The tunnel boring machine 1 is, for example, an earth pressure type (including a mud pressure type) shield boring machine capable of excavating the ground. However, the tunnel boring machine according to the present invention may be a tunnel boring machine other than an earth pressure type (including a mud pressure type) shield boring machine. As shown in Figure 1, the tunnel boring machine 1 comprises a boring machine body 10. The boring machine body 10 is cylindrical (for example, cylindrical or rectangular cylindrical). The axial direction of the boring machine body 10 coincides with the front-rear direction of the tunnel boring machine 1. Hereinafter, the axial direction of the boring machine body 10 will be simply referred to as the axial direction, the radial direction of the boring machine body 10 will be simply referred to as the radial direction, and the circumferential direction of the boring machine body 10 will be simply referred to as the circumferential direction.

[0021] A cutter head 20 is rotatably mounted at the front end of the excavator body 10. The cutter head 20 is pivotally supported so as to rotate around the central axis CA of the excavator body 10. The cutter head 20 has a substantially disc shape and is positioned coaxially with the excavator body 10. The diameter of the cutter head 20 is, for example, about the same as the diameter of the excavator body 10. A partition wall 11 is positioned axially rearward of the cutter head 20 on the excavator body 10. The partition wall 11 is a plate-shaped (for example, disc-shaped) wall positioned perpendicular to the axial direction (tunnel extension direction). The partition wall 11 is positioned at a distance from the cutter head 20 in the axial direction (tunnel extension direction). Various equipment of the tunnel excavator 1 is positioned behind the partition wall 11, and the partition wall 11 isolates this equipment from the excavated soil generated at the tunnel face.

[0022] A cutter rotation motor is provided inside the excavator body 10. By driving this cutter rotation motor, the cutter head 20 can be rotated. When the shield jack provided inside the excavator body 10 is activated and thrust is applied to the excavator body 10, the cutter head 20 is rotated, and the rotating cutter head 20 is pressed against the ground, enabling excavation of the ground.

[0023] The cutter head 20 has multiple cutter spokes arranged radially around its central axis CA. Multiple openings are formed between these cutter spokes. When the cutter head 20 excavates the ground, the excavated soil is taken in through these openings into the chamber 12, which is the space between the cutter head 20 and the partition wall 11. The excavated soil taken into the chamber 12 is transported toward the rear of the excavator body 10 by, for example, a screw conveyor and discharged.

[0024] The tunnel boring machine 1 is equipped with a roller cutter 30, which is a rotary cutting tool, for excavating hard rock or other ground. The roller cutter 30 is an example of a cutting tool according to the present invention. However, the cutting tool according to the present invention may be any rotary cutting tool, and may be a type of cutting tool other than the roller cutter 30. For example, multiple roller cutters 30 are provided at radial intervals on each cutter spoke of the cutter head 20. The roller cutters 30 are rotatably mounted about the axis in the extending direction of the cutter spoke of the cutter head 20. In tunnel excavation by the tunnel boring machine 1, the roller cutter 30 is pressed against the ground, crushing hard rock or other ground.

[0025] Here, the roller cutter 30 wears down as the ground is excavated. Therefore, in tunnel excavation, it becomes necessary to replace the roller cutter 30, for example, when the excavation distance is long. For this reason, the tunnel boring machine 1 is equipped with a replacement device (see replacement device 2 in Figure 2, etc., described later) that allows the roller cutter 30 to be replaced. Note that in Figure 1, the detailed illustration of the mounting location of the roller cutter 30 in the tunnel boring machine 1 is omitted. This point will be explained in detail below.

[0026] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the roller cutter 30 replacement device 2. Specifically, Figure 2 shows the view of the area around the roller cutter 30 in the radial direction of the excavator body 10. In Figure 2, the circumferential direction of the excavator body 10 is indicated by arrow D1.

[0027] The replacement device 2 can transition between a first state in which excavation is possible using the roller cutter 30 and a second state in which the roller cutter 30 can be replaced. When the replacement device 2 is in the second state, the roller cutter 30 can be replaced. Details of the second state will be described later. Figure 2 shows the first state of the replacement device 2. In other words, excavation of the ground using the roller cutter 30 is performed in the state shown in Figure 2.

[0028] As shown in Figure 2, the cutter head 20 includes a front plate 21, a rear plate 22, a housing 23, and a cylindrical portion 24.

[0029] The front plate 21 is a plate-shaped member that forms the front surface of the cutter head 20. The front plate 21 is approximately perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the excavator body 10. Excavation is performed in the front space S1 in front of the front plate 21. A first opening 21a is formed in the front plate 21. The first opening 21a penetrates the front plate 21 in the front-rear direction. The rear plate 22 is a plate-shaped member that forms the rear surface of the cutter head 20. The rear plate 22 is approximately perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the excavator body 10. The rear space S2 behind the rear plate 22 corresponds to the chamber 12 described above. The internal space of the cutter head 20 is formed between the front plate 21 and the rear plate 22. The holding member 40 and the support member 50, which will be described later, are arranged in the internal space of the cutter head 20.

[0030] The housing 23 accommodates the retaining member 40, which will be described later. The housing 23 is positioned behind the front plate 21 and in front of the rear plate 22. In other words, the housing 23 is positioned within the internal space of the cutter head 20. The housing 23 covers the rear surface of the front plate 21 (specifically, the rear surface of the portion of the front plate 21 that includes the first opening 21a) and forms the housing space S3 for the retaining member 40. The housing 23 has a hollow, substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, including, for example, a rearward-facing surface, a radially inward-facing surface of the excavator body 10, a radially outward-facing surface of the excavator body 10, a circumferential-facing surface of the excavator body 10, and a circumferential-facing surface of the excavator body 10.

[0031] The housing 23 is provided with a second opening 23a that connects the inside and outside of the housing 23, and a cover member 23b that opens and closes the second opening 23a. The second opening 23a is provided, for example, on the surface of the housing 23 facing one side in the circumferential direction of the excavator body 10. The shape of the second opening 23a is, for example, rectangular. However, the shape of the second opening 23a may be other than rectangular. The cover member 23b is larger than the second opening 23a and can cover the entire area of ​​the second opening 23a. Figure 2 shows the state in which the second opening 23a is closed by the cover member 23b. The shape of the cover member 23b is, for example, the same shape as the second opening 23a.

[0032] In the above description, an example of the installation position of the second opening 23a and the lid member 23b in the housing 23 is explained with reference to Figure 2. However, the installation position of the second opening 23a and the lid member 23b in the housing 23 may differ from the example in Figure 2. Also, there may be multiple second openings 23a and lid members 23b installed in the housing 23.

[0033] Furthermore, a third opening 23c is provided at the rear of the housing 23. The housing space S3 inside the housing 23 communicates with the rear space S2 behind the cutter head 20 via the third opening 23c. Specifically, a cylindrical portion 24 is connected to the third opening 23c. The cylindrical portion 24 extends rearward from the third opening 23c and opens into the rear plate 22. The cross-sectional shape of the cylindrical portion 24 in a cross section perpendicular to the extending direction (specifically, the front-rear direction), and the shape of the third opening 23c are circular. A support member 50, which will be described later, is fitted into the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion 24. Note that a cylindrical portion of a shape other than cylindrical (for example, a rectangular cylinder) may be used instead of the cylindrical portion 24.

[0034] As shown in Figure 2, the replacement device 2 comprises a holding member 40 and a support member 50. The roller cutter 30 is removably attached to the holding member 40, and the holding member 40 holds the attached roller cutter 30. The support member 50 is provided behind the holding member 40 and supports the holding member 40 from the rear.

[0035] The retaining member 40 includes a first seal 41, a second seal 42, a third seal 43, a fourth seal 44, and a first through hole 45. Each of the first seal 41, second seal 42, third seal 43, and fourth seal 44 is formed of, for example, a resin material and has an annular shape. The retaining member 40 has a substantially rectangular cylindrical shape in which a first through hole 45 is formed, extending in the front-rear direction relative to a rectangular parallelepiped shape. Thus, the retaining member 40 has six outer surfaces. In the first state, the first through hole 45 passes through the center of the retaining member 40 and penetrates the retaining member 40 in the front-rear direction. The cross-sectional shape of the first through hole 45 in a cross section perpendicular to the extending direction of the first through hole 45 (in the example of Figure 2, the front-rear direction) is, for example, substantially rectangular (for example, covering the outer shape of the roller cutter 30 when viewed in the front-rear direction and following the shape of the outer shape). In the first state, the first through hole 45 is positioned coaxially with, for example, the first opening 21a of the front plate 21 of the cutter head 20.

[0036] The first outer surface F1 of the holding member 40 faces forward in the first state and is perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the excavator body 10. The first outer surface F1 has a shape, for example, a rectangle with the opening of the first through hole 45 formed in the center. In the first state, the outer edge of the first outer surface F1 is formed by a pair of sides extending radially to the excavator body 10 and a pair of sides extending circumferentially to the excavator body 10. The first seal 41 is provided on the first outer surface F1. The first seal 41 is formed in an annular shape and is positioned concentrically with the center of the first outer surface F1. The roller cutter 30 is provided on the outer surface of the holding member 40 near the first outer surface F1. Specifically, the roller cutter 30 is provided on the first outer surface F1 side of the first through hole 45, and a part of the roller cutter 30 is exposed outside the first outer surface F1. The first seal 41 is positioned to surround the roller cutter 30.

[0037] In the first state, the second outer surface F2 of the retaining member 40 is continuous with one of the edges that form the outer edge of the first outer surface F1 and extends radially from the excavator body 10, and is, for example, perpendicular to the first outer surface F1. In the first state, the second outer surface F2 faces the excavator body 10 in the circumferential direction and is perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the excavator body 10. The second outer surface F2 has, for example, a rectangular shape. The second seal 42 is provided on the second outer surface F2. The second seal 42 is formed in an annular shape and is, for example, positioned concentrically with the center of the second outer surface F2.

[0038] The third outer surface F3 of the retaining member 40 is the outer surface of the retaining member 40 opposite to the first outer surface F1. In the first state, the third outer surface F3 faces, for example, to the rear and is perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the excavator body 10. The third outer surface F3 has the same shape as the first outer surface F1. The third seal 43 is provided on the third outer surface F3. The third seal 43 is formed in an annular shape and is positioned, for example, concentrically with the center of the third outer surface F3. The third seal 43 is positioned to surround the opening of the first through hole 45 formed in the third outer surface F3.

[0039] The fourth outer surface F4 of the retaining member 40 is the outer surface of the retaining member 40 opposite to the second outer surface F2. In the first state, the fourth outer surface F4 faces the opposite direction of the circumferential direction of the excavator body 10 from the direction of the second outer surface F2, and is perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the excavator body 10. The fourth outer surface F4 has the same shape as the second outer surface F2. The fourth seal 44 is provided on the fourth outer surface F4. The fourth seal 44 is formed in an annular shape and is positioned concentrically with the center of the fourth outer surface F4, for example.

[0040] In addition to the first outer surface F1, second outer surface F2, third outer surface F3, and fourth outer surface F4 described above, the outer surface of the holding member 40 includes an outer surface facing the radially inward side of the excavator body 10 and an outer surface facing the radially outward side of the excavator body 10.

[0041] Furthermore, the above describes an example where the first outer surface F1 and the second outer surface F2 are orthogonal. However, the first outer surface F1 and the second outer surface F2 only need to intersect, they do not need to be orthogonal. Also, the first outer surface F1 and the third outer surface F3 do not need to be strictly parallel. Also, the second outer surface F2 and the fourth outer surface F4 do not need to be strictly parallel.

[0042] The support member 50 includes a cylindrical portion 51 and a flange portion 52. The cylindrical portion 51 extends in the front-rear direction. A second through-hole 53 is formed inside the cylindrical portion 51. The second through-hole 53 penetrates the support member 50 in the front-rear direction. The flange portion 52 protrudes radially outward from the front end of the cylindrical portion 51. The flange portion 52 extends in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 51 and has an annular shape. The flange portion 52 is arranged coaxially with the cylindrical portion 51. The front surface of the flange portion 52 faces the third outer surface F3, which is the rear surface of the retaining member 40, in the front-rear direction. Note that a cylindrical portion with a shape other than a cylinder (for example, a rectangular cylinder) may be used instead of the cylindrical portion 51. Also, the flange portion 52 is not necessarily provided.

[0043] The outer circumference of the cylindrical portion 51 of the support member 50 is fitted into the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion 24 of the cutter head 20. The support member 50 is movable in the front-rear direction while fitted into the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion 24. A seal 54 is provided on the outer circumference of the cylindrical portion 51. The seal 54 extends in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 51 and has an annular shape. The seal 54 abuts against the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion 24. The seal 54 seals the space between the outer circumference of the support member 50 and the inner circumference of the cylindrical portion 24.

[0044] As described above, Figure 2 shows the first state in which the roller cutter 30 can excavate. As shown in Figure 2, in the first state, the first outer surface F1 of the holding member 40 faces the front plate 21 of the cutter head 20. The roller cutter 30 also partially protrudes from the front plate 21 through the first opening 21a of the front plate 21. The first seal 41 also contacts the edge of the front plate 21 around the first opening 21a. The first seal 41 then seals the space between the edge and the first outer surface F1. In the first state, the third outer surface F3 of the holding member 40 faces the front surface of the support member 50 (specifically, the front surface of the flange portion 52). The third seal 43 also contacts the edge of the support member 50 around the second through hole 53 on the front surface of the support member 50. The third seal 43 then seals the space between the edge and the third outer surface F3.

[0045] As described above, in the first state, the first seal 41 seals the space between the edge of the front plate 21 around the first opening 21a and the first outer surface F1. In addition, the third seal 43 seals the space between the edge of the support member 50 around the second through hole 53 on the front surface of the support member 50 and the third outer surface F3. This prevents excavated soil from entering the storage space S3 inside the housing 23. Therefore, workers can open the lid member 23b and inspect or replace components inside the storage space S3 through the second opening 23a while ensuring safety. Specifically, in the first state, the second seal 42 and the fourth seal 44 can be inspected or replaced.

[0046] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 2, in the first state, the front and rear of the cutter head 20 are connected by the first through-hole 45 and the second through-hole 53. As a result, the excavated soil generated as a result of excavation by the roller cutter 30 can be discharged into the rear space S2 through the first through-hole 45 and the second through-hole 53. Therefore, the accumulation of excavated soil near the roller cutter 30 can be suppressed, and wear of the roller cutter 30 due to accumulated excavated soil can be suppressed.

[0047] Here, the holding member 40 is movable in the front-rear direction of the excavator body 10 and is rotatable around a pivot axis B1 that intersects the front-rear direction. This makes it possible to transition the replacement device 2 between a first state in which the roller cutter 30 can excavate and a second state in which the roller cutter 30 can be replaced. The mechanism that enables the movement of the holding member 40 in the front-rear direction and rotation around the pivot axis B1 will be described below.

[0048] Figure 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the A1-A1 section of Figure 2. Specifically, Figure 3 shows a cross-section that passes through the pivot axis B1 of the holding member 40 and is perpendicular to the circumferential direction of the excavator body 10. In Figure 3, the radial direction of the excavator body 10 is indicated by arrow D2.

[0049] As shown in Figure 3, a pair of support shafts 31 are provided on both sides of the roller cutter 30 in the axial direction. Each support shaft 31 is positioned on the central axis of the roller cutter 30. Each support shaft 31 is rotatably supported by a holder 32. This allows the roller cutter 30 to rotate around the central axis of the support shaft 31. Each holder 32 is detachably attached to a holding member 40. By removing the holder 32 from the holding member 40, the roller cutter 30 can be removed from the holding member 40. The roller cutter 30 can then be replaced by removing the roller cutter 30 from the holding member 40 and setting a new roller cutter 30 onto the holding member 40. When the roller cutter 30 is set on the holding member 40, when the holding member 40 moves, the roller cutter 30 moves integrally with the holding member 40 as the holding member 40 moves.

[0050] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 3, the holding member 40 is provided with a pair of support shafts 46. Each support shaft 46 protrudes radially from the outer surface of the holding member 40 facing the radial direction of the excavator body 10 (the left and right surfaces in Figure 3). Each support shaft 46 is arranged coaxially. The central axis of the support shafts 46 corresponds to the pivot axis B1 of the holding member 40. The holding member 40 is sandwiched between a pair of guide members 60 from both sides in the radial direction (left and right direction in Figure 3) of the excavator body 10. The guide members 60 are provided to guide the movement of the holding member 40 in the front-rear direction and the rotation around the pivot axis B1. The guide members 60 have a substantially flat plate shape perpendicular to the radial direction of the excavator body 10.

[0051] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the A2-A2 section of Figure 3. Specifically, Figure 4 shows a cross-section that passes through the guide member 60 and is perpendicular to the radial direction of the excavator body 10.

[0052] As shown in Figure 4, the guide member 60 includes a guide hole 61 and a movable bearing 62. The guide hole 61 is an elongated hole that penetrates the guide member 60 in the thickness direction and extends in the front-rear direction. The movable bearing 62 is movable in the front-rear direction within the guide hole 61 and rotatably supports the support shaft 46 of the holding member 40. Specifically, the movable bearing 62 has a cylindrical shape. A portion of the outer circumferential surface of the movable bearing 62 (specifically, the upper and lower portions in Figure 4) extends in the front-rear direction and is fitted into the inner circumferential surface of the guide hole 61. The inner circumferential surface of the movable bearing 62 has a cylindrical shape, and the support shaft 46 is fitted into the inner circumferential surface of the movable bearing 62.

[0053] As shown in Figure 3, the support shafts 46 of the retaining member 40 extend beyond the movable bearings 62 of the guide member 60. Therefore, the operator can move the retaining member 40 in the forward and backward directions by, for example, grasping each support shaft 46 with their hand and moving each support shaft 46 together with the movable bearing 62 in the forward and backward directions. The operator can also rotate the retaining member 40 around the pivot axis B1 by, for example, grasping each support shaft 46 with their hand and rotating each support shaft 46 relative to the movable bearing 62. The forward and backward position of the retaining member 40 can be fixed so as not to change by a mechanism not shown. The rotational orientation of the retaining member 40 can also be fixed so as not to change by a mechanism not shown. The movement and rotation of the retaining member 40 may be performed by methods other than manual operation (for example, by using a hydraulic or electric drive device).

[0054] In the above description, the pivot axis B1 extends radially to the excavator body 10 and is perpendicular to the longitudinal and circumferential directions of the excavator body 10. However, the pivot axis B1 only needs to intersect the longitudinal direction of the excavator body 10, and may, for example, be inclined with respect to the radial direction of the excavator body 10, or extend in the circumferential direction of the excavator body 10.

[0055] As described above, in order to replace the roller cutter 30, the replacement device 2 needs to be changed from the first state, in which the roller cutter 30 can excavate, to the second state, in which the roller cutter 30 can be replaced. The following describes the transition of the replacement device 2 from the first state to the second state.

[0056] Figures 5 and 6 are schematic diagrams showing the transition of the exchange device 2 from the first state to the second state. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the second state of the exchange device 2. In the process of the exchange device 2 transitioning from the first state to the second state, the state of the exchange device 2 progresses sequentially from the state in Figure 2, through the state in Figure 5 and the state in Figure 6, to the state in Figure 7.

[0057] In Figure 5, the roller cutter 30 and the retaining member 40 in the state shown in Figure 2 are indicated by dashed lines. The state in Figure 5 is the state in which the retaining member 40 has been moved backward compared to the state in Figure 2. Here, in order to move the retaining member 40 backward from the state in Figure 2, the support member 50 is moved backward from the state in Figure 2 prior to the movement of the retaining member 40. As a result, the seal between the edge of the support member 50 around the second through hole 53 on the front surface of the support member 50 (specifically, the front surface of the flange portion 52) and the third outer surface F3, which was sealed by the third seal 43, is released.

[0058] Then, when the retaining member 40 moves backward from the state shown in Figure 2, the first seal 41 separates from the edge of the front plate 21 surrounding the first opening 21a. As a result, the seal between the edge of the front plate 21 surrounding the first opening 21a and the first outer surface F1, which was sealed by the first seal 41, is released.

[0059] In Figure 6, the roller cutter 30 and the holding member 40 in the state shown in Figure 5 are indicated by dashed lines. The state in Figure 6 is the state in which the holding member 40 has been rotated approximately 90° around the pivot axis B1 compared to the state in Figure 5. Specifically, the holding member 40 rotates from the state in Figure 5 in a direction that brings the roller cutter 30 closer to the second opening 23a of the housing 23 (clockwise in the example of Figure 5). As a result, the roller cutter 30 is retracted behind the front plate 21. Also, the second outer surface F2 of the holding member 40 faces the front plate 21 of the cutter head 20. Furthermore, the fourth outer surface F4 of the holding member 40 faces the front surface of the support member 50 (specifically, the front surface of the flange portion 52).

[0060] In Figure 7, the roller cutter 30 and the retaining member 40 in the state shown in Figure 6 are indicated by dashed lines. The state in Figure 7 is the state in which the retaining member 40 has been moved forward compared to the state in Figure 6. When the retaining member 40 is moved forward from the state in Figure 6, the second seal 42 comes into contact with the edge of the front plate 21 around the first opening 21a. As a result, the space between the edge and the second outer surface F2 is sealed by the second seal 42.

[0061] As the retaining member 40 moves, the support member 50 also moves forward from the state shown in Figure 6. As a result, the fourth seal 44 seals the area between the edge of the support member 50 around the second through hole 53 on the front surface of the support member 50 (specifically, the front surface of the flange portion 52) and the fourth outer surface F4.

[0062] As described above, in the second state of Figure 7, the second seal 42 seals the space between the edge of the front plate 21 around the first opening 21a and the second outer surface F2. In addition, the fourth seal 44 seals the space between the edge of the support member 50 around the second through hole 53 on the front surface of the support member 50 and the fourth outer surface F4. This prevents excavated soil from entering the storage space S3 inside the housing 23. Therefore, the worker can open the lid member 23b and inspect or replace components inside the storage space S3 through the second opening 23a while ensuring safety. Specifically, in the second state, the roller cutter 30 can be inspected or replaced. Furthermore, in the second state, the first seal 41 and the third seal 43 can be inspected or replaced.

[0063] The above describes the transition of the replacement device 2 from the first state to the second state. After the roller cutter 30 has been inspected or replaced in the second state, in order to enable excavation with the roller cutter 30, the replacement device 2 must be returned from the second state, in which the roller cutter 30 can be replaced, to the first state, in which excavation can be performed by the roller cutter 30. The transition of the replacement device 2 from the second state to the first state is the reverse of the transition from the first state to the second state.

[0064] Specifically, in the process of the exchange device 2 transitioning from the second state to the first state, the state of the exchange device 2 progresses sequentially from the state in Figure 7 to the state in Figure 6, and then to the state in Figure 5, and finally to the state in Figure 2. That is, first, the holding member 40 moves backward from the state in Figure 7 to the state in Figure 6. Here, in order to move the holding member 40 backward from the state in Figure 7, the support member 50 moves backward from the state in Figure 7 prior to the movement of the holding member 40. Next, the holding member 40 rotates from the state in Figure 6 in a direction that moves the roller cutter 30 away from the second opening 23a of the housing 23 (specifically, in the counterclockwise direction in Figure 6), and reaches the state in Figure 5. Then, the holding member 40 and the support member 50 move forward from the state in Figure 5 to the state in Figure 2. With this, the transition of the exchange device 2 from the second state to the first state is completed.

[0065] As described above, the exchange device 2 according to this embodiment includes a holding member 40 to which a rotary cutting tool (a roller cutter 30 in the above example) is interchangeably attached, a first annular seal 41 provided on the first outer surface F1 on the cutting tool side of the outer surface of the holding member 40 and arranged to surround the cutting tool, and a second annular seal 42 provided on the second outer surface F2 intersecting the first outer surface F1 of the outer surface of the holding member 40. The holding member 40 is movable in the front-rear direction of the excavator body 10 and is rotatable around a pivot axis B1 that intersects in the front-rear direction. Furthermore, the exchange device 2 is capable of transitioning between a first state in which excavation is possible with the cutting tool and a second state in which the cutting tool is interchangeable. The first state is when the first outer surface F1 of the holding member 40 faces the front plate 21 of the cutter head 20, the cutting tool partially protrudes from the front plate 21 through the first opening 21a of the front plate 21, and the first seal 41 contacts the edge of the front plate 21 around the first opening 21a, thereby sealing the space between the edge and the first outer surface F1. The second state is when the second outer surface F2 of the holding member 40 faces the front plate 21, the cutting tool is retracted behind the front plate 21, and the second seal 42 contacts the edge of the front plate 21 around the first opening 21a, thereby sealing the space between the edge and the second outer surface F2.

[0066] As described above, in the first state, the first seal 41 seals the space between the edge of the front plate 21 surrounding the first opening 21a and the first outer surface F1. This prevents excavated soil from entering the installation location of the second seal 42 through the space between the front plate 21 and the retaining member 40. Therefore, the worker can inspect and replace the second seal 42 while ensuring safety. In the second state, the second seal 42 seals the space between the edge of the front plate 21 surrounding the first opening 21a and the second outer surface F2. This prevents excavated soil from entering the installation location of the cutting tool and the first seal 41 through the space between the front plate 21 and the retaining member 40. Therefore, the worker can inspect and replace the first seal 41 in addition to inspecting and replacing the cutting tool while ensuring safety. As described above, with the replacement device 2 according to this embodiment, in addition to replacing the cutting tool, the seal can also be easily replaced.

[0067] Furthermore, in the exchange device 2, the transition from the first state to the second state is performed by the holding member 40 moving backward, then rotating in the first rotational direction (clockwise in the example above, Figure 6), and then moving forward. The transition from the second state to the first state is performed by the holding member 40 moving backward, then rotating in the second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction (counterclockwise in the example above, Figure 6), and then moving forward. This ensures that the exchange device 2 can be appropriately transitioned between the first and second states.

[0068] Furthermore, in the transition between the first state and the second state, the exchange device 2 may perform operations different from those in the above example. For example, in the transition between the first state and the second state, in addition to the above example, additional forward and backward movements other than those described above may be performed, and additional rotational movements other than those described above may be performed. Furthermore, in the transition from the first state to the second state, in addition to the above example, rotational movements in the second rotational direction may be performed. Also, in the transition from the second state to the first state, in addition to the above example, rotational movements in the first rotational direction may be performed.

[0069] Furthermore, the replacement device 2 is positioned behind the front plate 21 and includes a housing 23 that accommodates the retaining member 40. The housing 23 is provided with a second opening 23a that connects the inside and outside of the housing 23, and a lid member 23b that opens and closes the second opening 23a. As a result, in the first or second state, the components (specifically, cutting tools or seals) inside the storage space S3 can be inspected or replaced by opening the lid member 23b. On the other hand, if the components inside the storage space S3 are not to be inspected or replaced, the storage space S3 can be separated from the outside of the housing 23 by closing the lid member 23b. Therefore, even if excavated soil or other materials enter the storage space S3, the safety of the worker can be improved.

[0070] In the example shown in Figure 2, in the first state, the second opening 23a and the lid member 23b are provided in the housing 23 at a position facing the fourth outer surface F4 of the retaining member 40. However, in the first state, the second opening 23a and the lid member 23b may be provided, for example, in the housing 23 at a position facing the second outer surface F2 of the retaining member 40. The housing 23 may be omitted from the exchange device 2.

[0071] Furthermore, the replacement device 2 includes a support member 50 that supports the holding member 40 from the rear. The holding member 40 has a first through hole 45 that penetrates from a first outer surface F1 to a third outer surface F3 on the opposite side of the outer surface of the holding member 40. The support member 50 has a second through hole 53 that penetrates the support member 50 in the front-rear direction. In the first state, the front and rear of the cutter head 20 are connected by the first through hole 45 and the second through hole 53. As a result, the excavated soil generated as a result of excavation by the cutting tool can be discharged into the rear space S2 through the first through hole 45 and the second through hole 53. Therefore, the accumulation of excavated soil near the cutting tool can be suppressed, and wear of the cutting tool due to accumulated excavated soil can be suppressed.

[0072] The support member 50 may be omitted from the exchange device 2. In that case, the first through hole 45, the third seal 43, and the fourth seal 44 may be omitted from the retaining member 40.

[0073] Furthermore, the replacement device 2 includes an annular third seal 43 provided on the third outer surface F3 of the retaining member 40, and an annular fourth seal 44 provided on the fourth outer surface F4 of the retaining member 40, which is on the side opposite to the second outer surface F2. In the first state, the third outer surface F3 faces the front surface of the support member 50, and the third seal 43 abuts against the edge of the support member 50 around the second through hole 53 on the front surface of the support member 50, and the third seal 43 seals the space between the edge and the third outer surface F3. In the second state, the fourth outer surface F4 faces the front surface of the support member 50, and the fourth seal 44 abuts against the edge of the support member 50 around the second through hole 53 on the front surface of the support member 50, and the fourth seal 44 seals the space between the edge and the fourth outer surface F4.

[0074] As described above, in the first state, the third seal 43 seals the space between the edge of the support member 50 around the second through hole 53 on the front surface of the support member 50 and the third outer surface F3. This prevents excavated soil from entering the installation locations of the second seal 42 and the fourth seal 44 through the space between the support member 50 and the retaining member 40 when the support member 50 is installed on the replacement device 2. Therefore, the worker can inspect and replace the second seal 42 and the fourth seal 44 while ensuring safety. In the second state, the fourth seal 44 seals the space between the edge of the support member 50 around the second through hole 53 on the front surface of the support member 50 and the fourth outer surface F4. This prevents excavated soil from entering the installation locations of the cutting tool, the first seal 41 and the third seal 43 through the space between the support member 50 and the retaining member 40 when the support member 50 is installed on the replacement device 2. Therefore, while ensuring safety, the worker can inspect and replace the cutting tool, as well as the first seal 41 and the third seal 43.

[0075] Furthermore, in the replacement device 2, the first seal 41, the second seal 42, the third seal 43, and the fourth seal 44 are provided to be replaceable. As a result, all the seals provided on the retaining member 40 can be replaced by transitioning the retaining member 40 between the first state and the second state.

[0076] Furthermore, some of the seals among the first seal 41, second seal 42, third seal 43, and fourth seal 44 do not need to be replaceable.

[0077] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of the modified replacement device 2A. The modified replacement device 2A differs from the replacement device 2 described above in that each seal has a double structure including an inner seal and an outer seal, and an injection mechanism 70 for injecting liquid into the portion between the inner seal and the outer seal has been added. Other aspects are the same as the replacement device 2 described above, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0078] Figure 8, like Figure 2 described above, shows the area around the roller cutter 30 as viewed radially from the excavator body 10. Also, Figure 8, like Figure 2 described above, shows the first state of the replacement device 2A.

[0079] As shown in Figure 8, in the exchange device 2A, the first seal 41 includes an annular inner seal 41a and an annular outer seal 41b surrounding the outer periphery of the inner seal 41a. On the first outer surface F1, the inner seal 41a and the outer seal 41b are arranged concentrically, for example. The inner seal 41a and the outer seal 41b are arranged concentrically, for example, at the center of the first outer surface F1. The inner seal 41a is arranged to surround the roller cutter 30.

[0080] Furthermore, the second seal 42 includes an annular inner seal 42a and an annular outer seal 42b surrounding the outer periphery of the inner seal 42a. On the second outer surface F2, the inner seal 42a and the outer seal 42b are arranged concentrically, for example. The inner seal 42a and the outer seal 42b are arranged concentrically, for example, at the center of the second outer surface F2.

[0081] Furthermore, the third seal 43 includes an annular inner seal 43a and an annular outer seal 43b surrounding the outer periphery of the inner seal 43a. On the third outer surface F3, the inner seal 43a and the outer seal 43b are arranged concentrically, for example. The inner seal 43a and the outer seal 43b are arranged concentrically, for example, at the center of the third outer surface F3. The inner seal 43a is arranged to surround the opening of the first through hole 45 formed in the third outer surface F3.

[0082] Furthermore, the fourth seal 44 includes an annular inner seal 44a and an annular outer seal 44b surrounding the outer periphery of the inner seal 44a. On the fourth outer surface F4, the inner seal 44a and the outer seal 44b are, for example, arranged concentrically. The inner seal 44a and the outer seal 44b are, for example, arranged concentrically with the center of the fourth outer surface F4.

[0083] As described above, each seal has a double structure including an inner seal and an outer seal, so that even if one of the inner or outer seals is damaged, the sealing performance can be ensured. Therefore, the sealing performance of each seal can be improved.

[0084] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, the replacement device 2A includes an injection mechanism 70 for injecting liquid into the portion between the inner seal and the outer seal of each seal. The injection mechanism 70 includes a flow path 71 and a discharge port 72. Liquid such as water flows through the flow path 71. The upstream end of the flow path 71 in the direction of liquid flow is connected to a liquid supply source (not shown). The flow path 71 passes inside the front plate 21 of the cutter head 20 and extends to the portion of the rear surface of the front plate 21 that faces the first outer surface F1 of the retaining member 40 in the first state. A discharge port 72 is provided at the downstream end of the flow path 71. In the first state, the discharge port 72 opens to the portion of the rear surface of the front plate 21 that faces the first outer surface F1 of the retaining member 40. Specifically, in the first state, the discharge port 72 faces the portion of the first outer surface F1 between the inner seal 41a and the outer seal 41b of the first seal 41.

[0085] For example, by operating a pump (not shown) provided in the flow path 71, liquid can be sent into the flow path 71 and discharged from the discharge port 72. In Figure 8, the flow of liquid is indicated by a dashed-dotted arrow. In the first state of Figure 8, by discharging liquid from the discharge port 72, liquid can be injected into the space between the inner seal 41a and the outer seal 41b of the first seal 41. As a result, the space between the inner seal 41a and the outer seal 41b of the first seal 41 can be filled with liquid, thereby improving the sealing performance of the first seal 41. In this case, if liquid is leaking to the outside from the inner seal 41a or the outer seal 41b, it can be determined that the leaking seal is damaged.

[0086] In the replacement device 2A, a flow path 47 is provided in the retaining member 40. The flow path 47 connects the portion between the inner seal 41a and the outer seal 41b of the first seal 41 on the first outer surface F1, and the portion between the inner seal 43a and the outer seal 43b of the third seal 43 on the third outer surface F3. Therefore, in the first state shown in Figure 8, the liquid discharged from the discharge port 72 is injected through the flow path 47 into the portion between the inner seal 43a and the outer seal 43b of the third seal 43. As a result, the portion between the inner seal 43a and the outer seal 43b of the third seal 43 can be filled with liquid, thereby improving the sealing performance of the third seal 43. In this case, if liquid is leaking to the outside from the inner seal 43a or the outer seal 43b, it can be determined that the leaking seal is damaged.

[0087] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing the second state of the replacement device 2A according to a modified example. As shown in Figure 9, in the second state, the discharge port 72 faces the portion of the second outer surface F2 between the inner seal 42a and the outer seal 42b of the second seal 42. In the second state of Figure 9, by discharging liquid from the discharge port 72, liquid can be injected into the portion of the second seal 42 between the inner seal 42a and the outer seal 42b. As a result, the portion of the second seal 42 between the inner seal 42a and the outer seal 42b can be filled with liquid, thereby improving the sealing performance of the second seal 42. In this case, if liquid leaks out from the inner seal 42a or the outer seal 42b, it can be determined that the leaking seal is damaged.

[0088] In the replacement device 2A, a flow path 48 is provided in the retaining member 40. The flow path 48 connects the portion between the inner seal 42a and the outer seal 42b of the second seal 42 on the second outer surface F2, and the portion between the inner seal 44a and the outer seal 44b of the fourth seal 44 on the fourth outer surface F4. Therefore, in the second state of Figure 9, the liquid discharged from the discharge port 72 is also injected through the flow path 48 into the portion between the inner seal 44a and the outer seal 44b of the fourth seal 44. As a result, the portion between the inner seal 44a and the outer seal 44b of the fourth seal 44 can be filled with liquid, thereby improving the sealing performance of the fourth seal 44. In this case, if liquid is leaking to the outside from the inner seal 44a or the outer seal 44b, it can be determined that the leaking seal is damaged.

[0089] Figures 10 and 11 are schematic diagrams showing other examples of the situation in which liquid is injected by the injection mechanism 70 of the modified exchange device 2A. In Figures 10 and 11, the exchange device 2A is in an intermediate state between the first and second states.

[0090] In the example shown in Figure 10, the first outer surface F1 of the retaining member 40 faces the front plate 21 of the cutter head 20, and the first seal 41 is separated from the front plate 21. Also in the example shown in Figure 10, the third outer surface F3 of the retaining member 40 faces the flange portion 52 of the support member 50, and the third seal 43 is separated from the flange portion 52. In this state, by discharging liquid from the discharge port 72, the liquid can be sprayed and scattered onto the area between the inner seal 41a and the outer seal 41b of the first seal 41. This allows foreign matter accumulated in the area between the inner seal 41a and the outer seal 41b of the first seal 41 to be removed by the liquid.

[0091] Furthermore, when liquid is discharged from the discharge port 72 with the second outer surface F2 and the fourth outer surface F4 facing the front plate 21 and flange portion 52 respectively, the second seal 42 separated from the front plate 21, and the fourth seal 44 separated from the flange portion 52, foreign matter accumulated in the portion between the inner seal 42a and the outer seal 42b of the second seal 42 can be removed by the liquid, similar to the example described above.

[0092] In the example shown in Figure 11, the difference from the example in Figure 10 is that the first seal 41 on the first outer surface F1 of the retaining member 40 is in contact with the front plate 21 of the cutter head 20. In this state, by discharging liquid from the discharge port 72, the liquid is passed through the flow path 47, and the liquid can be scattered from the portion between the inner seal 43a and the outer seal 43b of the third seal 43. As a result, foreign matter accumulated in the portion between the inner seal 43a and the outer seal 43b of the third seal 43 can be removed by the liquid.

[0093] Furthermore, with the second outer surface F2 and the fourth outer surface F4 facing the front plate 21 and flange portion 52 respectively, the second seal 42 in contact with the front plate 21, and the fourth seal 44 separated from the flange portion 52, when liquid is discharged from the discharge port 72, similar to the example above, foreign matter accumulated in the portion between the inner seal 44a and the outer seal 44b of the fourth seal 44 can be removed by the liquid by passing the liquid through the flow path 48.

[0094] As explained above, in the modified replacement device 2A, each of the first seal 41, second seal 42, third seal 43, and fourth seal 44 includes an annular inner seal and an annular outer seal surrounding the outer circumference of the inner seal. This ensures that even if one of the inner seal or the outer seal is damaged, the sealing performance of each seal can be maintained. Therefore, the sealing performance of each seal can be improved.

[0095] Furthermore, only some of the seals of the first seal 41, second seal 42, third seal 43, and fourth seal 44 may include an annular inner seal and an annular outer seal surrounding the outer periphery of the inner seal. In other words, at least one of the first seal 41, second seal 42, third seal 43, and fourth seal 44 may include an annular inner seal and an annular outer seal surrounding the outer periphery of the inner seal. This also improves the sealing performance of the double-layered seal.

[0096] Furthermore, the replacement device 2A includes an injection mechanism 70 for injecting liquid into the space between the inner seal and the outer seal. This allows the space between the inner seal and the outer seal to be filled with liquid, thereby improving the sealing performance. In addition, foreign matter accumulated in the space between the inner seal and the outer seal can be removed by the liquid.

[0097] In the above example, a case was described in which the flow paths 47 and 48 provided in the holding member 40 function as part of the injection mechanism 70. However, at least one of the flow paths 47 and 48 may be omitted from the holding member 40. Also, in the above example, a case was described in which the liquid passes through a flow path 71 formed inside the front plate 21 of the cutter head 20 and is discharged from a discharge port 72 opening on the rear surface of the front plate 21. However, the liquid path in the injection mechanism 70 is not limited to the above example. For example, the injection mechanism 70 may include an internal flow path formed inside the holding member 40 that communicates the tip of the support shaft 46 of the holding member 40 with the portion between the inner seal and the outer seal of each seal. In this case, the liquid flow path should be formed so that the liquid is supplied from a liquid source to the internal flow path. That is, the liquid should be supplied to the internal flow path from an opening in the internal flow path formed at the tip of the support shaft 46.

[0098] Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the attached drawings. However, it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and that various modifications or alterations within the scope of the claims also fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0099] For example, although the above describes a tunnel boring machine 1 of the earth pressure type (including the mud pressure type), the tunnel boring machine according to the present invention may also be of the slurry type.

[0100] Furthermore, although the above description of the components of the tunnel boring machine 1 was given with reference to the drawings, the dimensions and positional relationships of the components in the drawings are merely illustrative examples, and the dimensions and positional relationships of the components of the tunnel boring machine 1 are not limited to the examples shown in the drawings. In addition, components may be added, deleted, or modified as appropriate for the tunnel boring machine 1 illustrated in the drawings.

[0101] Furthermore, while the above example describes the use of a rotary cutting tool, a fixed cutting tool may be used instead of a rotary cutting tool depending on the soil conditions and other factors. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0102] 1. Tunnel boring machine 2 Exchange device 2A exchange device 10. Excavator body 11 Bulkhead 12 Chambers 20 Cutter Heads 21 Front panel 21a 1st opening 22 Rear plate 23 Housing 23a 2nd opening 23b Lid member 23c 3rd opening 24 Cylindrical section 30 Roller cutters (cutting tools) 31 Support shaft 32 holder 40 Retaining member 41 First Seal 41a Inner seal 41b Outer seal 42 Second Seal 42a Inner seal 42b Outer seal 43 Third Seal 43a Inner seal 43b Outer seal 44. Fourth Seal 44a Inner seal 44b Outer seal 45 First through hole 46 Support shaft 47 Flow channels 48 channels 50 Support member 51 Cylindrical section 52 Flange section 53 Second through hole 54 Seals 60 Guide members 61 Guide holes 62 Moving bearings 70 Injection mechanism 71 Flow channels 72 Discharge port B1 Return shaft F1 First Outside F2 Second outside F3 Third outside F4, 4th outside S1 Front Space S2 rear space S3 Containment Space

Claims

1. A replacement device for the cutting tool of a tunnel boring machine, The aforementioned tunnel boring machine, A cylindrical excavator body, A cutter head is rotatably mounted at the front end of the excavator body, A rotary cutting tool provided on the cutter head, Equipped with, The aforementioned cutter head is The front plate forming the front surface of the cutter head, The first opening formed in the front plate, It has, The cutting tool replacement device is The cutting tool is interchangeably mounted, and a holding member holds the cutting tool. An annular first seal is provided on the first outer surface of the retaining member on the cutting tool side, and is arranged to surround the cutting tool. An annular second seal is provided on the second outer surface of the retaining member that intersects with the first outer surface, Equipped with, The holding member is movable in the front-rear direction of the excavator body and is rotatable around a pivot axis that intersects the front-rear direction. The cutting tool exchange device is capable of transitioning between a first state in which drilling is possible with the cutting tool and a second state in which the cutting tool can be replaced. The first state is a state in which the first outer surface of the holding member faces the front plate, the cutting tool partially protrudes from the front plate through the first opening of the front plate, and the first seal contacts the edge of the front plate around the first opening, thereby sealing the space between the edge of the front plate and the first outer surface of the front plate. The second state is one in which the second outer surface of the holding member faces the front plate, the cutting tool is retracted behind the front plate, and the second seal contacts the edge of the front plate around the first opening, thereby sealing the space between the edge of the front plate and the second outer surface. A cutting tool changing device.

2. The transition from the first state to the second state is performed by the holding member moving backward, then rotating in the first rotational direction, and then moving forward. The transition from the second state to the first state is performed by the holding member moving backward, then rotating in a second rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction, and then moving forward. A cutting tool replacement device according to claim 1.

3. It is positioned behind the front plate and comprises a housing that accommodates the retaining member, The housing is provided with a second opening that connects the inside and outside of the housing, and a lid member that opens and closes the second opening. A cutting tool replacement device according to claim 1.

4. The holding member is supported from the rear by a support member, The retaining member has a first through hole that penetrates from the first outer surface to the third outer surface on the opposite side of the outer surface of the retaining member. The support member has a second through-hole that penetrates the support member in the front-rear direction. In the first state, the front and rear of the cutter head are connected by the first through hole and the second through hole. A cutting tool replacement device according to claim 1.

5. An annular third seal provided on the third outer surface of the retaining member, An annular fourth seal is provided on the fourth outer surface of the retaining member that is opposite to the second outer surface, Equipped with, In the first state, the third outer surface faces the front surface of the support member, the third seal abuts against the edge of the support member around the second through hole on the front surface of the support member, and the space between the edge of the support member and the third outer surface is sealed by the third seal. In the second state, the fourth outer surface faces the front surface of the support member, the fourth seal abuts against the edge of the support member around the second through hole on the front surface of the support member, and the gap between the edge of the support member and the fourth outer surface is sealed by the fourth seal. A cutting tool replacement device according to claim 4.

6. The first seal, the second seal, the third seal, and the fourth seal are provided to be replaceable. The cutting tool replacement device according to claim 5.

7. At least one of the first seal, the second seal, the third seal, and the fourth seal includes an annular inner seal and an annular outer seal surrounding the outer periphery of the inner seal. The cutting tool replacement device according to claim 5.

8. It includes an injection mechanism for injecting liquid into the portion between the inner seal and the outer seal. A cutting tool replacement device according to claim 7.

9. A replacement device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, Tunnel boring machine.

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