Improved method and apparatus for tunnel boring

Abstract

The present invention provides a tunnel boring machine (TBM) having at least two ends, one of which being provided with a cutting head, said TBM comprising or in communication with at least one section having an outer shield providing an internal cavity for at least partially housing at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation; wherein the outer TBM shield has at least one preplanned opening through shield, the opening being provided with at least one removable element, such that post the tunnel construction said at least one removable element is removed

Description

[0001] Improved Method and Apparatus for Tunnel Boring

[0002] Field of the Invention

[0003] This invention relates to the method and apparatus for tunnel boring, in particular in relation to the recovery of machinery following the construction of offshore tunnels.

[0004] Background of the Invention

[0005] Subsea tunnels are utilised in a number of technologies, including desalination of sea water or other water treatment methods where long seawater intake and / or outfall tunnels is required. The execution of large diameter tunnels that extend over long distances through the seabed soil creates significant challenges. Tunnel boring machines (TBMs) are normally employed to execute the tunnels by excavating the soil under the sea using a large rotating cutter head at the front of the TBM and pistons to move this forward.

[0006] As tunnel excavation progresses, there are two main methodologies know in the art to create the tunnel using TBM: (a) segment lining methodology, where concrete segments are installed into rings around the periphery of the bore to create the tunnel; or, (b) pipejacking methodology, where jacks are used to push concrete pipes through the ground behind a shield at the same time as excavation is taking place within the shield . The displaced soil from the cutterhead is conveyed to the rear of the device, using a conveyor for reuse or disposal of slurry.

[0007] This type of machinery is huge by its very nature of having to cut and form tunnels that are long. The equipment itself and its operation costs millions of dollars but excavating tunnels in this manner limits disturbance to the surrounding ground and enables a smooth tunnel wall to be produced, reducing the cost of lining the tunnel. TBMs are expensive to construct and challenging to transport but these fixed costs become less significant for longer tunnels. However, following completion of the tunnel, it is necessary to recover the TBM from the sea to enable marine structure to be connected to the tunnel. This creates further difficult challenges, including the environmental impact of a large marine recovery pit and the excavation being affected by sea conditions and impacted by tunnel depth, geotechnical conditions, and the location of the TBM in the sea. The recovery of the TBM from the sea also significantly increases cost of the overall installation of the tunnel due to time being lost to due to poor weather and / or sea conditions to allow recovery pit construction for TBM recovery and extraction of the TBM. In most cases this work is highly crucial and as the activity is an integral part of the tunnel construction and of the project as a hole, thus any delays affect the overall project profiles. Thus, it is desirable to be able to increase the efficiency of this recovery process.

[0008] It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved tunnel boring machine methodology, an improved system for the recovery of TBMs post tunnel formation and an improved method for the recovery of TBMs.

[0009] Furthermore, the present invention provides a method of utilization of the TBM shiels to connect a marine structures at the end of the tunnel, post tunnel formation, that aim to overcome, or at least alleviate, the abovementioned drawbacks. It is a further object of the present invention to improve intake assembly post tunnel formation.

[0010] Summary of the Invention

[0011] According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a tunnel boring machine (TBM) having at least two ends, one of which being provided with a cutting head, said TBM comprising an outer shield providing an internal cavity for housing at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation, wherein the outer shield has at least one preplanned opening through to the internal cavity, at least one the opening being provided with at least one removable element.

[0012] According to one embodiment of the present invention said at least one least one component is equipment selected from a group consisting from a group consisting of cutting tools, cutting head, excavation tools, pressure transducers, pipes, valves, steering machinery, power supply, pumps, motors, cooling means, measuring instruments, air regulating system, compressed air regulating system, control unit and any combination thereof.

[0013] In some embodiments, the at least one preplanned opening is provided in a part of the outer shield that forms a head of the TBM. In some embodiments, the at least one preplanned opening is provided in an upper part of the outer shield.

[0014] In some embodiments, the at least one removable element is a removable cover sized and shaped to tight-fit seal said at least one opening.

[0015] In some embodiments, said at least one element is adapted to at least partially cover said at least one opening.

[0016] In some embodiments, said at least one element is selected from a group consisting of plate, disc, saddle-like element and any combination thereof. In some embodiments, said at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

[0017] In some embodiments, said mechanically tight-fit of said at least one element is reversible from said at least one opening.

[0018] In some embodiments, said at least one removable element is either comprised of the same material as the outer shield or substantially a different material.

[0019] In some embodiments, suitable fasteners may be provided around the perimeter of removable element for fastening the removable element across the opening. In some embodiments, such fasteners are bolts.

[0020] In some embodiments, the removable element is sealed to the shield, for example, by the provision of a gasket, to provide a watertight joint therebetween.

[0021] According to another embodiment, the perimeter of the opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the removable element.

[0022] According to another embodiment, the pedestal of the preplanned openings and perimeter of the at least one removable element are provided with a series of spaced apart complementary holes for receiving fasteners therethrough.

[0023] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the at least one removable element has an angle of curvature and shape that is the same as of the at least one opening on the shield.

[0024] According to another aspect of the invention, at least one second removable element for coupling to the outer shield over the at least one preplanned opening is provided.

[0025] According to one embodiment, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0026] According to one embodiment, the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange. The flange extends outwardly from a base of the tubular section for anchoring against the annular pedestal provided around the perimeter of the opening. According to another embodiment, the annular flange has an angle of curvature and shape that is substantially the same as of the opening on the shield. The annular flange is provided with a series of spaced apart holes for aligning with the spaced apart holes of the pedestal for receiving fasteners therethrough.

[0027] According to another embodiment, the TBM may comprise multiple sections that are mechanically connected. Some or of the sections may be provided with at least one preplanned opening through the shields, the opening being provided with at least one removable element.

[0028] As disclosed in the above, in some embodiments, at least one removable element is a removable cover sized and shaped to tight-fit seal said at least one opening.

[0029] In some embodiments, said at least one element is adapted to at least partially cover said at least one opening.

[0030] In some embodiments, said at least one element is selected from a group consisting of plate, disc, saddle-like element and any combination thereof.

[0031] In some embodiments, said at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

[0032] In some embodiments, said mechanically tight-fit of said at least one element is reversible from said at least one opening.

[0033] According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a system for recovery, at least partially of at least one part of a TBM component from the tunnel, the system comprising a tunnel boring machine according to any of the disclosed above.

[0034] According to another embodiment, the system additionally comprising at least one second removable element, the at least one second removable element being configured to be attachable to the shield of the TBM to surround and extend from the at least one preplanned opening.

[0035] According to one embodiment, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof. According to another embodiment of the present invention, the system provides a TBM head that forms part of the tunnel, wherein upon said at least partial removal of at least one component from the internal cavity of the TBM, the head remains in the ground and the at least one removable element is replaced with the at least one second removable element.

[0036] According to one embodiment, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0037] According to one embodiment the at least one second removable element is connectable to a marine structure such as intake head or brine diffuser, as case may be, above the seabed. In this manner, the TBM head forms part of the tunnel and the at least one second removable element provides or facilitate a connection to the marine structure.

[0038] As disclosed above, the at least one preplanned opening is provided in a part of the outer shield. As disclosed above, according to another embodiment, the at least one preplanned opening is provided in an upper part of the outer shield.

[0039] As disclosed above, the at least one removable element is either being made of the same material as the outer shield or substantially a different material.

[0040] Suitable fasteners may be provided around the perimeter of the removable element for fastening the removable element across the opening, with bolts.

[0041] It is to be appreciated that the removable element is sealed to the shield, for example, by the provision of a gasket, to provide a watertight joint therebetween.

[0042] More preferably, according to another embodiment, the perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element.

[0043] According to another embodiment, the pedestal of the preplanned openings and perimeter of the at least one removable element are provided with a series of spaced apart complementary holes for receiving fasteners therethrough. According to another embodiment, the removable element (cover) has an angle of curvature and shape that is substantially the same as of the shield. Preferably, the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange. The flange extends outwardly from a base for anchoring against the annular pedestal provided around the perimeter of the at least one opening. According to one embodiment, the annular flange has an angle of curvature and shape that is the same as of the shield. The annular flange is provided with a series of spaced apart holes for aligning with the spaced apart holes of the pedestal for receiving fasteners therethrough.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the TBM comprise multiple sections that are connected with each other. Some or all of the sections may be provided with at least one preplanned opening through TBM shield, the opening being provided with at least one removable element. Preferably, a plurality of second removable elements are provided for attachment to the sections to surround the openings after removal of the at least one removable element.

[0045] As noted above, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0046] In some embodiments, at least one removable element is a removable cover sized and shaped to tight- fit seal said at least one opening.

[0047] In some embodiments, said at least one element is adapted to at least partially cover said at least one opening.

[0048] In some embodiments, said at least one element is selected from a group consisting of plate, disc, saddle-like element and any combination thereof.

[0049] In some embodiments, said at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

[0050] In some embodiments, said mechanically tight-fit of said at least one element is reversible from said at least one opening.

[0051] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for the at least partial recovery of at least one component of a TBM from a tunnel, the method comprising: providing a tunnel boring machine or system according to any of the disclosed above; constructing at least one tunnel with said TBM; at least partially removing at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation from the internal cavity of the TBM; and leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine in situ as part of the tunnel.

[0052] According to another embodiment, said step of leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine comprising step of maintaining at least partially said at least one component in situ as part of the tunnel.

[0053] According to another embodiment, said step of constructing at least one tunnel is performed by at least one selected from a group consisting of segment lining methodology, pipejacking methodology, any other suitable configuration and any combination thereof.

[0054] According to another embodiment, the method additionally comprising step of coupling together at least one second removable element to the shield of the TBM to surround the at least one preplanned opening prior to or after removal of the at least one removable element.

[0055] The at least one removable element may be removed from the outside of the tunnel to provide the required opening, more preferably being removed from the inside.

[0056] According to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0057] Different methods may be provided for removing the at least one removable element and / or attaching the at least one second removable element to the opening(s) on the shield of the tunnel, all of which are incorporated by reference.

[0058] The method may further comprise placing a riser over the top of the shield in the location of the opening priorto removal of the removable element and installation of the second removable element.

[0059] The riser may be placed over the tunnel and optionally bolted thereto. According to one embodiment the riser is positioned in substantially vertical position and means are provided to prevent rotation thereof.

[0060] According to another embodiment of the present invention, sealing may be provided around the joint between the riser and the tunnel.

[0061] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the lower end of the riser is concave for anchoring to the TBM shield.

[0062] According to another embodiment of the present invention, at least two components are removed together simultaneously. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for facilitating at least one marine structure to be connected to a tunnel, the method comprising: providing a tunnel boring machine or system according to any of the disclosed above; coupling together at least one second removable element to the shield of the TBM to surround the at least one preplanned opening prior to or after removal of the at least one removable element; thereby providing coupling of the tunnel to at least one marine structure; and, leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine with the at least one second removable element in situ to form part of the tunnel.

[0063] According to another embodiment, the method additionally comprising step of removing at least partially at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation from the internal cavity of the TBM.

[0064] The at least one removable element may be removed from the outside of the tunnel to provide the required opening, more preferably being removed from the inside.

[0065] According to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0066] Different methods may be provided for removing the at least one removable element and / or attaching the at least one second removable element to the opening(s) on the shield of the tunnel, all of which are incorporated by reference.

[0067] The method may further comprise placing a riser over the top of the shield in the location of the opening priorto removal of the removable element and installation of the second removable element.

[0068] The riser may be placed over the tunnel and optionally bolted thereto.

[0069] According to another embodiment of the present invention, sealing may be provided around the joint between the riser and the tunnel.

[0070] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the lower end of the riser is concave for anchoring to the TBM shield.

[0071] It is to be appreciated that while circular openings in the TBM shield is the preferred choice, alternative shapes may be provided. It is another object of the present invention to provide a tunnel boring machine (TBM) having at least two ends, one of which being provided with a cutting head, said TBM comprising or in communication with at least one section having an outer shield providing an internal cavity for at least partially housing at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation; wherein the outer TBM shield has at least one preplanned area in said shield, said area is configured such that post the tunnel construction said at least one preplanned area is removed.

[0072] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said preplanned area is marked, such that post the tunnel construction said preplanned area is identified.

[0073] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one preplanned area is at least one preplanned opening.

[0074] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one opening being provided with at least one removable element, such that post the tunnel construction said at least one removable element is removed.

[0075] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one least one component is at least one equipment selected from a group consisting from a group consisting of cutting tools, cutting head, excavation tools, pressure transducers, pipes, valves, steering machinery, power supply, pumps, motors, cooling means, measuring instruments, air regulating system, compressed air regulating system, control unit and any combination thereof.

[0076] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein at least one preplanned opening is provided in a part of the outer shield that forms a head of the TBM.

[0077] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in an upper part of the outer TBM shield.

[0078] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one removable element is a removable cover sized and shaped to tight-fit seal said at least one opening.

[0079] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one removable element is adapted to at least partially cover said at least one opening.

[0080] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of plate, disc, saddle-like element and any combination thereof. It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

[0081] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said mechanically tight-fit of said at least one removable element is reversible from said at least one opening.

[0082] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element.

[0083] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element and the perimeter of the at least one removable element are provided with a series of spaced apart complementary holes for receiving fasteners therethrough.

[0084] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one removable element has an angle of curvature and shape that is the same as of the shield.

[0085] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, further comprising at least one second removable element for coupling to the outer TBM shield over the at least one preplanned opening.

[0086] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0087] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange.

[0088] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange, the flange extending outwardly from a base of the tubular section for anchoring against an annular pedestal of the at least one opening. It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the annular flange is provided with a series of spaced apart holes for aligning with the spaced apart holes provided around the perimeter of the at least one preplanned opening for receiving fasteners therethrough.

[0089] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the second removable element is positioned in substantially vertical position relative to the tunnel.

[0090] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to prevent rotational movement of said second removable element.

[0091] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to facilitate positioning of said second removable element substantially vertically relative to the tunnel.

[0092] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to facilitate positioning of said second removable element at an angle of 90 degrees ± 10 degrees relative to the tunnel.

[0093] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the TBM comprises multiple sections configured to be fastened together, at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, at least one of the opening being provided with the at least one removable element.

[0094] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the TBM is in communication with multiple sections configured to be fastened together or in communication with one another, at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the at least one of opening being provided with at least one removable element.

[0095] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, additionally comprising pushing means adapted to engage with at least one cleaning means, adapted to clean the inner surface of the tunnel.

[0096] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said pushing means is selected from a group consisting of air piping, pistons, air inflated element and any combination thereof.

[0097] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said pushing means are provided in the most distal end of said tunnel downstream of said at least one opening. It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said cleaning means is selected from a group consisting of pig, any mechanical cleaning device and any combination thereof.

[0098] It is another object of the present invention to provide a system for recovery of at least parts of a TBM components from a tunnel, the system comprising a tunnel boring machine as claimed in any of claims 75-104 and at least one second removable element, the second removable element being configured to be attachable to the shield of the TBM to surround and extend from the at least one preplanned area.

[0099] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said preplanned area is marked, such that post the tunnel construction said preplanned area is identified.

[0100] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said at least one preplanned area is at least one preplanned opening.

[0101] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said at least one least one component is equipment selected from a group consisting from a group consisting of cutting tools, cutting head, excavation tools, pressure transducers, pipes, valves, steering machinery, power supply, pumps, motors, cooling means, measuring instruments, air regulating system, compressed air regulating system, control unit and any combination thereof.

[0102] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the system includes a TBM head that forms part of the tunnel, wherein upon at least partial removal of at least one component from the internal cavity of the TBM, the head remains in the ground and the at least one removable element is replaced with the at least one second removable element.

[0103] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0104] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element is connectable to riser going up from the tunnel to the surface of the water, lake, river, water reservoir, seawater and any combination thereof. It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in a part of the TBM shield that forms the head of the TBM.

[0105] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in an upper part of the TBM shield.

[0106] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one removable element is a removable cover sized and shaped to tight-fit seal said at least one opening.

[0107] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, said at least one removable element is adapted to at least partially cover said at least one opening.

[0108] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of plate, disc, saddle-like element and any combination thereof.

[0109] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

[0110] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said mechanically tight-fit of said at least one removable element is reversible from said at least one opening.

[0111] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said at least one removable element is either comprised of the same material as the outer shield or substantially a different material.

[0112] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein a perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element.

[0113] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the pedestal of the preplanned openings and perimeter of the at least one removable element are provided with a series of spaced apart complementary holes for receiving fasteners therethrough.

[0114] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one removable element has an angle of curvature and shape that is the same as of the shield. It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange.

[0115] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the TBM comprises multiple sections configured to be fastened together, at least one of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the opening being provided with the at least one removable element.

[0116] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the TBM is in communication with multiple sections configured to be fastened together or in communication with one another, at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the at least one of opening being provided with at least one removable element.

[0117] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, additionally comprising pushing means adapted to engage with at least one cleaning means, adapted to clean the inner surface of the tunnel.

[0118] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said pushing means is selected from a group consisting of air piping, pistons, air inflated element and any combination thereof.

[0119] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said pushing means are provided in the most distal end of said tunnel downstream of said at least one opening.

[0120] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said cleaning means is selected from a group consisting of pig, any mechanical cleaning device and any combination thereof.

[0121] It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for the at least partial recovery of at least one component of a TBM from a tunnel, the method comprising: providing at least one tunnel boring machine (TBM) having at least two ends, one of which being provided with a cutting head, said TBM comprising or in communication with at least one section having an outer shield providing an internal cavity for at least partially housing at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation; wherein the outer TBM shield has at least one preplanned area in said shield, said area is configured such that post the tunnel construction said at least one preplanned area is removed; constructing at least one tunnel with said TBM; at least partially removing said at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation from the internal cavity of the TBM; and leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine in situ as part of the tunnel.

[0122] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said preplanned area is marked, such that post the tunnel construction said preplanned area is identified.

[0123] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said at least one preplanned area is at least one preplanned opening.

[0124] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said at least one opening being provided with at least one removable element, such that post the tunnel construction said at least one removable element is removed.

[0125] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said step of leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine comprising step of maintaining at least partially said at least one component in situ as part of the tunnel.

[0126] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said step of constructing at least one tunnel is performed by at least one selected from a group consisting of segment lining methodology, pipejacking methodology, any other suitable configuration and any combination thereof.

[0127] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising step of coupling at least one second removable element to the shield of the TBM to surround the at least one preplanned opening prior to or after removal of the at least one cover.

[0128] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising step of coupling at least two components together and removing the same simultaneously.

[0129] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising removing said at least one removable element from inside the tunnel to provide an opening.

[0130] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising removing said at least one removable element from outside the tunnel to provide an opening. It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element is attached after the removal of the at least one removable element.

[0131] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising sealing around the second removable element at its junction with the shield of the TBM.

[0132] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising placing a riser over the top of the shield in the location of the opening prior to at least one of removal of the removable element and attachment of the second removable element.

[0133] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising at least one of grouting or sealing around the riser between the riser and the shield of the TBM.

[0134] It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for facilitating at least one marine structure to be connected to a tunnel, the method comprising: a. providing a tunnel boring machine according to any as defined above or system according to any as defined above; b. constructing at least one tunnel with said TBM; c. coupling together at least one second removable element to the shield of the TBM to surround the at least one preplanned opening prior to or after removal of the at least one removable element; thereby providing coupling of the tunnel to at least one marine structure; and, d. leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine with the at least one second removable element in situ to form part of the tunnel.

[0135] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said step of leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine comprising step of maintaining at least partially said at least one component in situ as part of the tunnel.

[0136] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said step of constructing at least one tunnel is performed by at least one selected from a group consisting of segment lining methodology, pipejacking methodology, any other suitable configuration and any combination thereof.

[0137] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, additionally comprising step of removing at least partially at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation from the internal cavity of the TBM. It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said at least one removable element may be removed from the outside of the tunnel to provide the required opening.

[0138] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0139] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, additionally comprising step of placing a riser over the top of the shield in the location of the opening prior to or after the removal of the removable element and installation of the second removable element.

[0140] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, additionally comprising step of sealing around the joint between the riser and the tunnel.

[0141] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising step of coupling at least two components together and removing the same simultaneously.

[0142] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

[0143] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

[0144] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

[0145] It is lastly an object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0146] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein;

[0147] Figure 1 is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view of a conventional TBM, shown with schematic illustrations of the removable element (cover) according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0148] Figure 2 is an external perspective view of a head of a TBM adapted with a removable element according to an embodiment of one aspect of the present invention;

[0149] Figure 3 is an expanded view of the removable element shown in Figure 2;

[0150] Figure 4A illustrates removal of the removable element shown in Figures 2 and 3;

[0151] Figure 4B illustrates a closer view of the opening and pedestal on the shield of the TBM;

[0152] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a riser connector according to an embodiment of one aspect of the present invention;

[0153] Figure 6 illustrates the positioning of the second removable element (in this case, a riser connector) shown in Figure 5 over the removed element of Figures 2 to 4;

[0154] Figure 7 illustrates the attachment of the second removable element (in this case, a riser connector) to the TBM;

[0155] Figure 8 illustrates the riser connector in situ on the head of the TBM;

[0156] Figure 9A is a schematic diagram of segmented TBM according to another embodiment of the present invention, shown with its end four segments separated; and

[0157] Figure 9B illustrates the diagram of Figure 9A shown with all segments connected together.

[0158] Figure 9C is a schematic diagram of segmented TBM according to another embodiment of the present invention, where the second removable element is coupled to a concrete pipe. Figure 9D is a schematic diagram of segmented TBM according to another embodiment of the present invention, where the second removable element is coupled to a carbon steel.

[0159] Figure 9E is a schematic closer diagram of the riser along with the intake suction head.

[0160] Figures 10A-10D illustrate the efficient recovery of components from the TBM.

[0161] Figures 11A-11B illustrating another embodiment of the present invention, where cleaning means are utilized.

[0162] Description of the Preferred Embodiments

[0163] With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only, and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice.

[0164] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is applicable to other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0165] The present invention overcomes the costly and time-consuming problem of removal of an entire TBM from the seabed via a large marine recovery pit. The solution achieved by the present invention is the construction of a modified TBM such that parts of the TBM modules can be more easily removed without the requirement for a large marine recovery pit and parts of the TBM module can remain under the ground and form part of the tunnel itself.

[0166] An example of a prior art TBM 1 is illustrated in Figure 1 of the accompanying drawings. The TBM has an outer shield 4 housing different parts of the machine in its interior 10 and having a cutter head 2 at its front end. As known in the art, there are two main methodologies know in the art to create the tunnel by TBM: (a) segment lining methodology, where concrete segments are installed into rings around the periphery of the bore to create the tunnel; or, (b) pipejacking methodology, where jacks are used to push concrete pipes through the ground behind a shield at the same time as excavation is taking place within the shield . The displaced soil from the cutterhead are conveyed to the rear of the device, using a conveyor for reuse or disposal of slurry.

[0167] All conventional and required component(s) / equipment(s) for the tunnelling construction as well as for the for excavating the soil from the sea are contained within the large interior cavity 10 of the TBM.

[0168] The present invention provides a modification to the shield 4 of the TBM 1 by providing preplanned openings 8 (shown in Fig. 4a) in the surface of the TBM, the openings being sealed by a removable element 12, as schematically shown in Figure 1.

[0169] It should be noted that the shape, size or cross-sectional area of the removable element 12 could be any shape, size or cross section area. It could be circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

[0170] Figures 2 to 8 illustrate a preferred embodiment of the present invention in further detail. According to one embodiment of the invention shield 4 of the exterior of the TBM lis provided with one or more preplanned openings (holes) 8. Said preplanned openings 8 are sealed-tight closed by a removable element 12 which may be bolted around the perimeter of the preplanned openings (holes) 8 and are water tight.

[0171] Thus, in this configuration, with the removable element 12, the exterior of the TBM is substantially continuous and can house the components of the machine in the conventional way, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, enabling the TBM to operate in the normal manner to create a tunnel of a desired size.

[0172] Reference is now made to Figure 4b providing a closer view of the preplanned openings (holes) 8. As seen in the figure, the perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal 20 for receipt of the removable element 12. Thus, essentially, when the removable element 12 is placed on top of the preplanned openings (holes) 8, a water-tight-fit coupling therebetween is enabled.

[0173] Once the tunnel is constructed (either in segment lining methodology and / or pipejacking methodology and / or any other suitable configuration) and the machinery components in the interior cavity 10 of the TBM are no longer required (and optionally extracted outside the tunnel, as will be detailed hereinbelow), the removable element 12 covering the preplanned openings 8 can be removed (see Figure 4) and replaced with a second removable element 30 to facilitate coupling thereto to a marine structure.

[0174] According to one embodiment, the second removable element 30 is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof. Alternatively, the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof.

[0175] It should be noted that in a desalination intake pipe with a riser above sea level, often part of an offshore seawater intake system, is designed to draw water from a specific depth while minimizing the intake of sediment, marine life, and debris. The riser, which is a substantial vertical section of the pipe, connects the intake point (typically a submerged head) to the main pipeline that carries water to the desalination plant. The height of the riser above the seabed is a critical design parameter that affects the quality of the water intake and the stability of the structure. Thus, the riser allows the intake point to be positioned at a specific depth, often deeper than the immediate seabed, to access cleaner water with fewer suspended solids and less marine life.

[0176] Risers can be constructed from various materials, including HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) and steel, and may be anchored to the seabed or supported by other structures.

[0177] The intake head (or intake suction head, numerical reference 37 in Figures 9C and 9D), located at the top of the riser, is designed to optimize water intake while minimizing the entry of unwanted materials. It may include velocity caps or other devices to regulate flow and prevent blockage.

[0178] In the example illustrated in the figures, the second removable element 30 is a removable saddle-like element 30 to form a riser connector extending upwardly from the TBM shield 4 (see Figure 5 to Figure 8). Methods for carrying out this exchange of parts underwater are discussed in further detail below.

[0179] As stated, the saddle-like element (second removable element) 30 comprising means for coupling / connecting tubing to the shield of the TBM, enabling at least part of the exterior of the head of the TBM to serve as part of the tunnel itself and be left in situ.

[0180] As disclosed, according to another embodiment of the present invention, means and method to facilitate removal of at least part of the internals from the TBM is provided. Furthermore, the present invention provides the ability to connect any required tubing and / or piping and / or riser and / or casing and / or port or any combination thereof to the TBM and to a marine structure as required.

[0181] According to one embodiment, the saddle-like element 30 has a tubular section 32 extending upwardly from an annular flange 34 surrounding the periphery of the lower end of the port.

[0182] The tubular section may have a diameter that is the same or substantially the same as the preplanned opening 8 provided through the shield 4 of the TBM.

[0183] The flange 34 is adapted to be received within an annular pedestal 20 provided in the peripheral section of the preplanned opening 8 and may be bolted thereto.

[0184] The flange 34 has an angle of curvature and shape that is the same as the perimeter of the preplanned opening 8.

[0185] In this manner, as described above, further tubing and / or piping and / or riser and / or casing and / or port or any combination thereof may be attached to the second removable element (e.g., the saddle- like element) 30 (and thus, to the TBM) on the one end and to a marine structure on the other end for the retrieval of equipment from the interior 10 of the tunnel and for future use as a recovery pit to the tunnel formed by the machine. Alternatively, further tubing and / or piping and / or riser and / or casing and / or port or any combination thereof may be attached to the second removable element to provide vertical shaft or passage. This could be for a ventilation shaft, access shaft, or a shaft that houses utilities like pipes or cables within the tunnel structure. It's essentially an opening that allows for vertical movement of air, people, equipment, or utilities within or around the tunnel.

[0186] Alternatively, as will be detailed below, retrieval of equipment from the interior 10 of the tunnel and for future use as a recovery pit to the tunnel formed by the machine will be provided through the tunnel itself.

[0187] The preplanned opening 8 provided in the TBM shield will generally have a diameter of around l-2m but other sizes may be provided.

[0188] The pedestal 20 of preplanned openings (holes) 8 and the perimeter of the removable element (the cover) 12 may be provided at series of spaced apart complementary holes (14a for the removable element (the cover) 12 and 14b for the for the pedestal 20 of preplanned openings (holes) 8 for receiving fasteners therethrough and coupling the same (see Figures 4A and 4B). In one embodiment, a gasket (not shown) may be provided across the joint between the preplanned openings and the removable element for watertightness.

[0189] It is noted that a suitable bolting / coupling arrangement may be provided to securely fasten the removable element with the preplanned opening.

[0190] As one important aspect of the present invention is the provision of the second removable element 30 being substantially vertical to the tunnel, according to another object of the present invention, the TBM is provided with means adapted to facilitate positioning of said second removable element in such vertically position relative to the tunnel.

[0191] According to another embodiment, the TBM is provided with means adapted to facilitate positioning of said second removable element at an angle of 90 degrees ± 10 degrees relative to the tunnel.

[0192] It should be further noted that the quantity of the modules may be altered if additional riser connectors 30 are required. For example, as illustrated in Figures 9A and 9B of the accompanying drawings, different numbers of modules 4a, 4b, 4c - 4n that form sections of the TBM may or may not be provided with removable element 12 sealing openings in the upper surface of the sections for installation of the second removable element (e.g., risers) 30 where required. In this manner, the TBM 1 may be assembled to have opening 8 for connection of the second removable element in the appropriate place along the TBM once the tunnel has been completed.

[0193] Once the tunnel is constructed and the at least part of the TBM internals / machine / components / equipment removed, the TBM head will be empty for use as part of the tunnel itself. The removable element 12 may be removed from the outside to provide the required opening. Next, the second removable element (e.g., risers, saddle-like ports etc.) 30 may be attached to the preplanned opening 8.

[0194] It should be pointed out that once the TBM head reached its final position (thus, the tunnel is complete), the tunnel is flooded with water (to prevent any of the external water from entering the inside of the tunnel). Next, the second removable element (e.g., risers, saddle-like ports etc.) 30 is attached to the preplanned opening 8 and only then the removable element 12 is removed from the outside of the tunnel.

[0195] Different arrangements may be provided for connecting the second removable element (e.g., riser) 30 to the shield, including cutting and covering to expose the TBM and installation the riser by divers (post the tunnel creation). For example, in one embodiment, installation of the second removable element (e.g., riser) may occur from the sea with minimal disruption.

[0196] The riser may be placed over the tunnel and bolted thereto. Optionally sealing around the joint between the riser and the tunnel is provided. According to one embodiment, the lower end of the riser is concave for anchoring to the TBM shield.

[0197] It is to be appreciated that while circular openings in the TBM shield have been discussed, alternative shapes may be provided.

[0198] Furthermore, it is emphasized that the shape, size or cross-sectional area of the removable element 12 could be any shape, size or cross section area.

[0199] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the TBM comprises multiple sections configured to be fastened together (or in communication with each other). According to another embodiment, the at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

[0200] According to this embodiment, the removable element 12 and / or the second removable element 30 could be on at least one sections.

[0201] Reference is now made to Figs. 9C-9D, illustrating such an embodiment. Figure 9C illustrates the coupling of the second removable element 30 to a concrete pipe and Figure 9D illustrates the coupling of the second removable element 30 to a carbon steel pipe.

[0202] It should be noted that the figures also illustrate scour protection 35. scour protection refers to measures taken to prevent or mitigate erosion, specifically scour, around structures in or near water bodies. In other words, scour is the removal of sediment by flowing water, which can undermine foundations and lead to structural instability. Scour protection aims to maintain the integrity of structures like bridges, offshore wind turbines, and other marine infrastructure by stabilizing the surrounding seabed.

[0203] The present invention provides apparatus and methodology for efficiently recovering TBMs components following tunnel construction. The modified TBM allows for a tunnel to be completed in the normal manner; and then, the TBM being stripped, at least partially of its at least one component from the inside of the TBM. According to this embodiment, at least two components are removed together simultaneously.

[0204] Also illustrated in Figures 9C and 9D are the intake suction head 37 and the seabed 38. As noted above, the intake suction head 37 located at the top of the riser, is designed to optimize water intake while minimizing the entry of unwanted materials. It may include velocity cap(s) 39 or other devices to regulate flow and prevent blockage.

[0205] Reference is now made to Figure 9E, illustrating a closer view of the riser 30 coupled to the TBM 1 (also illustrated is the TBM curter head 2) and the intake suction head 37 and the cap 39.

[0206] Reference is now made to Figures 10A-10D, illustrating the efficient recovery of TBMs components following tunnel construction. In Fig. 10A the TBM is in its final position and thus the tunnel has been constructed. Now removal of components from the internal cavity of the TBM can commence.

[0207] According to one embodiment, one component at a time is extracted. Alternatively, coupling of several components is enabled and the extraction thereof is more efficient as it is extracted together simultaneously.

[0208] In Fig. 10B, an exemplary of a first components coupling 10A being extracted is illustrated. The extraction is illustrated by the arrow lOal.

[0209] In Fig. IOC an exemplary of a second components coupling 10B is extracted. It should be noted that more or less machinery can be removed. The extraction is illustrated by the arrow lObl.

[0210] It could be that the first components coupling would enclose the measuring instruments while the second components coupling will include the supporting equipment for the drilling head and auxiliary systems for the drilling head. However, any combination is appropriate and feasible.

[0211] In Fig. 10D the last section of the TBM segment lOCis extracted. The extraction is illustrated by the arrow lOcl.

[0212] It should be note that according to one embodiment of the present invention the TBM is provided with at least one preplanned area (without the removable element) such that said area is configured to be removed post the tunnel construction.

[0213] According to another embodiment, wherein said preplanned area is marked, such that post the tunnel construction said preplanned area is identified. In other words, once the tunnel is created, divers could dive and cut of the marked area so as to facilitate the coupling of the second removable element (e.g., riser). According to another embodiment of the present invention cleaning means are adapted to clean the inner surface of the tunnel (post the creation thereof).

[0214] According to another embodiment of the present invention to provide the cleaning means is selected from a group consisting of pig, any mechanical cleaning device and any combination thereof.

[0215] According to another embodiment of the present invention the TBM is provided with pushing means in the most distal end of said tunnel downstream of said at least one opening. The pushing means are adapted to push said cleaning means upstream of the opening of the tunnel. In other words, the pushing means are adapted to push said cleaning means upstream of either the removable element and / or the second removable element (e.g., the riser) to facilitate its movement along the tunnel.

[0216] According to another embodiment of the present invention the pushing means are selected from a group consisting of air piping, pistons, air inflated element and any combination thereof.

[0217] Reference is now made to Figs. 11A-11B illustrating this embodiment.

[0218] As can be seen in Fig. 11A, cleaning means 52 (in this case a pig) is provided to clean the inner surface 53 of the shield 4 or tunnel (post the creation thereof) 54, whilst the curter head 2 is left post the construction of the tunnel.

[0219] According to another embodiment of the present invention to provide the cleaning means 52 is selected from a group consisting of pig, any mechanical cleaning device and any combination thereof.

[0220] Reference is now made to Fig. 11B, illustrating another embodiment of the present invention, where the TBM is provided with pushing means 51 in the most distal end of said tunnel downstream of said at least one opening (seen in the left-most side of Fig. 11B).

[0221] The pushing means are adapted to push said cleaning means upstream of the opening of the tunnel. In other words, the pushing means are adapted to push said cleaning means upstream of either the removable element and / or the second removable element (e.g., the riser) to facilitate its movement along the tunnel.

[0222] According to another embodiment of the present invention the pushing means 51 are selected from a group consisting of air piping, pistons, air inflated element and any combination thereof. As seen in Fig. 11B, the pushing means 51 are pistons. But it can be any other mechanical, Hydraulic-based, pneumatically based elements. For example, it can comprise air pipes with pressurized air (running all the way back to the marine), such that when cleaning of the tunnel is needed - the air pipes air 51 that pushes the cleaning means 52 upstream of either the removable element and / or the second removable element (e.g., the riser) to facilitate its movement along the tunnel. In other words, the pushing means (e.g., the air pipes air 51) to the proximal end of the tunnel / right side of Fig. 11B.

[0223] Alternatively, as noted above, the pushing means 51 could be pistons.

[0224] Thus, the present invention provides apparatus and methodology for facilitating at least one marine structure to be connected to a tunnel, the method comprising: providing a tunnel boring machine or system according to any of the disclosed above; coupling together at least one second removable element to the shield of the TBM to surround the at least one preplanned opening prior to or after removal of the at least one removable element; thereby providing coupling of the tunnel to at least one marine structure; and, leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine with the at least one second removable element in situ to form part of the tunnel.

[0225] According to another embodiment, the method additionally comprising step of removing at least partially at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation from the internal cavity of the TBM.

[0226] The at least one removable element may be removed from the outside of the tunnel to provide the required opening.

[0227] According to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0228] Different methods may be provided for removing the at least one removable element and / or attaching the at least one second removable element to the opening(s) on the shield of the tunnel, all of which are incorporated by reference.

[0229] The method may further comprise placing a riser over the top of the shield in the location of the opening priorto removal of the removable element and installation of the second removable element.

[0230] The second element (e.g., riser) may be placed over the tunnel and optionally bolted thereto.

[0231] According to another embodiment of the present invention, sealing may be provided around the joint between the riser and the tunnel.

[0232] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the lower end of the riser is concave for anchoring to the TBM shield.

[0233] T1 The head of the TBM may then form part of the tunnel itself. This provides a number of benefits, including cost savings because the entire head of the TBM does not have to be removed and aiding the installation of tubing extending from the tunnel once completed for passage of fluids to the surface from the tunnel. It is another object of the present invention to provide a tunnel boring machine (TBM) having at least two ends, one of which being provided with a cutting head, said TBM comprising or in communication with at least one section having an outer shield providing an internal cavity for at least partially housing at least one component fortunnel excavation and formation; wherein the outer TBM shield has at least one preplanned opening through shield, the opening being provided with at least one removable element, such that post the tunnel construction said at least one removable element is removed.

[0234] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one least one component is at least one equipment selected from a group consisting from a group consisting of cutting tools, cutting head, excavation tools, pressure transducers, pipes, valves, steering machinery, power supply, pumps, motors, cooling means, measuring instruments, air regulating system, compressed air regulating system, control unit and any combination thereof. It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein at least one preplanned opening is provided in a part of the outer shield that forms a head of the TBM.

[0235] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in an upper part of the outer TBM shield.

[0236] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one removable element is a removable cover sized and shaped to tight-fit seal said at least one opening.

[0237] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one removable element is adapted to at least partially cover said at least one opening.

[0238] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of plate, disc, saddle-like element and any combination thereof.

[0239] In some embodiments, said at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

[0240] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said mechanically tight-fit of said at least one removable element is reversible from said at least one opening. It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element.

[0241] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element and the perimeter of the at least one removable element are provided with a series of spaced apart complementary holes for receiving fasteners therethrough.

[0242] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one removable element has an angle of curvature and shape that is the same as of the shield.

[0243] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, further comprising at least one second removable element for coupling to the outer TBM shield over the at least one preplanned opening.

[0244] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0245] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange.

[0246] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange, the flange extending outwardly from a base of the tubular section for anchoring against an annular pedestal of the at least one opening.

[0247] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the annular flange is provided with a series of spaced apart holes for aligning with the spaced apart holes provided around the perimeter of the at least one preplanned opening for receiving fasteners therethrough.

[0248] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the second removable element is positioned in substantially vertical position relative to the tunnel. It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to prevent rotational movement of said second removable element.

[0249] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to facilitate positioning of said second removable element substantially vertically relative to the tunnel.

[0250] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to facilitate positioning of said second removable element at an angle of 90 degrees ± 10 degrees relative to the tunnel.

[0251] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the TBM comprises multiple sections configured to be fastened together, at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, at least one of the opening being provided with at least one removable element.

[0252] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the TBM is in communication with multiple sections configured to be fastened together or in communication with one another, at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the at least one of opening being provided with at least one removable element.

[0253] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, additionally comprising pushing means adapted to engage with at least one cleaning means, adapted to clean the inner surface of the tunnel.

[0254] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said pushing means is selected from a group consisting of air piping, pistons, air inflated element and any combination thereof.

[0255] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said pushing means are provided in the most distal end of said tunnel downstream of said at least one opening.

[0256] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said cleaning means is selected from a group consisting of pig, any mechanical cleaning device and any combination thereof.

[0257] It is another object of the present invention to provide a system for recovery of at least parts of a TBM components from a tunnel, the system comprising a tunnel boring machine as defined above, and at least one second removable element, the second removable element being configured to be attachable to the shield of the TBM to surround and extend from the at least one preplanned opening.

[0258] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said at least one least one component is equipment selected from a group consisting from a group consisting of cutting tools, cutting head, excavation tools, pressure transducers, pipes, valves, steering machinery, power supply, pumps, motors, cooling means, measuring instruments, air regulating system, compressed air regulating system, control unit and any combination thereof.

[0259] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the system includes a TBM head that forms part of the tunnel, wherein upon at least partial removal of at least one component from the internal cavity of the TBM, the head remains in the ground and the at least one removable element is replaced with the at least one second removable element.

[0260] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0261] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element is connectable to riser going up from the tunnel to the surface of the water, lake, river, water reservoir, seawater and any combination thereof.

[0262] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in a part of the TBM shield that forms the head of the TBM.

[0263] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in an upper part of the TBM shield.

[0264] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one removable element is a removable cover sized and shaped to tight-fit seal said at least one opening.

[0265] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, said at least one removable element is adapted to at least partially cover said at least one opening. It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of plate, disc, saddle-like element and any combination thereof.

[0266] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, said at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

[0267] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said mechanically tight-fit of said at least one removable element is reversible from said at least one opening.

[0268] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said at least one removable element is either comprised of the same material as the outer shield or substantially a different material.

[0269] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein a perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element.

[0270] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the pedestal of the preplanned openings and perimeter of the at least one removable element are provided with a series of spaced apart complementary holes for receiving fasteners therethrough.

[0271] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one removable element has an angle of curvature and shape that is the same as of the shield.

[0272] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange.

[0273] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the TBM comprises multiple sections configured to be fastened together, at least one of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the opening being provided with at least one removable element.

[0274] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the TBM is in communication with multiple sections configured to be fastened together or in communication with one another, at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the at least one of opening being provided with at least one removable element.

[0275] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, additionally comprising pushing means adapted to engage with at least one cleaning means, adapted to clean the inner surface of the tunnel.

[0276] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said pushing means is selected from a group consisting of air piping, pistons, air inflated element and any combination thereof.

[0277] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said pushing means are provided in the most distal end of said tunnel downstream of said at least one opening.

[0278] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said cleaning means is selected from a group consisting of pig, any mechanical cleaning device and any combination thereof.

[0279] It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for the at least partial recovery of at least one component of a TBM from a tunnel, the method comprising: providing a tunnel boring machine (TBM) having at least two ends, one of which being provided with a cutting head, said TBM comprising or in communication with at least one section having an outer shield providing an internal cavity for at least partially housing at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation; wherein the outer TBM shield has at least one preplanned opening through shield, the opening being provided with at least one removable element, such that post the tunnel construction said at least one removable element is removed; constructing at least one tunnel with said TBM; at least partially removing at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation from the internal cavity of the TBM; and leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine in situ as part of the tunnel.

[0280] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said step of leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine comprising step of maintaining at least partially said at least one component in situ as part of the tunnel. It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said step of constructing at least one tunnel is performed by at least one selected from a group consisting of segment lining methodology, pipejacking methodology, any other suitable configuration and any combination thereof.

[0281] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising step of coupling at least one second removable element to the shield of the TBM to surround the at least one preplanned opening prior to or after removal of the at least one cover.

[0282] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising step of coupling at least two components together and removing the same simultaneously.

[0283] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising removing said at least one removable element from inside the tunnel to provide an opening.

[0284] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising removing said at least one removable element from outside the tunnel to provide an opening.

[0285] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element is attached after the removal of the at least one removable element.

[0286] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising sealing around the second removable element at its junction with the shield of the TBM.

[0287] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising placing a riser over the top of the shield in the location of the opening prior to at least one of removal of the removable element and attachment of the second removable element.

[0288] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising at least one of grouting or sealing around the riser between the riser and the shield of the TBM.

[0289] It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for facilitating at least one marine structure to be connected to a tunnel, the method comprising: a. providing a tunnel boring machine or system as any of the defined above; b. coupling together at least one second removable element to the shield of the TBM to surround the at least one preplanned opening prior to or after removal of the at least one removable element; thereby providing coupling of the tunnel to at least one marine structure; and, c. leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine with the at least one second removable element in situ to form part of the tunnel.

[0290] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, additionally comprising step of removing at least partially at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation from the internal cavity of the TBM.

[0291] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said at least one removable element may be removed from the outside of the tunnel to provide the required opening.

[0292] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0293] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, additionally comprising step of placing a riser over the top of the shield in the location of the opening prior to or after the removal of the removable element and installation of the second removable element.

[0294] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, additionally comprising step of sealing around the joint between the riser and the tunnel.

[0295] It is another object of the present invention to provide a tunnel boring machine (TBM) having at least two ends, one of which being provided with a cutting head, said TBM comprising or in communication with at least one section having an outer shield providing an internal cavity for at least partially housing at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation; wherein the outer TBM shield has at least one preplanned area in said shield, said area is configured such that post the tunnel construction said at least one preplanned area is removed.

[0296] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said preplanned area is marked, such that post the tunnel construction said preplanned area is identified.

[0297] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one preplanned area is at least one preplanned opening. It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one opening being provided with at least one removable element, such that post the tunnel construction said at least one removable element is removed.

[0298] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one least one component is at least one equipment selected from a group consisting from a group consisting of cutting tools, cutting head, excavation tools, pressure transducers, pipes, valves, steering machinery, power supply, pumps, motors, cooling means, measuring instruments, air regulating system, compressed air regulating system, control unit and any combination thereof.

[0299] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein at least one preplanned opening is provided in a part of the outer shield that forms a head of the TBM.

[0300] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in an upper part of the outer TBM shield.

[0301] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one removable element is a removable cover sized and shaped to tight-fit seal said at least one opening.

[0302] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one removable element is adapted to at least partially cover said at least one opening.

[0303] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of plate, disc, saddle-like element and any combination thereof.

[0304] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

[0305] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said mechanically tight-fit of said at least one removable element is reversible from said at least one opening.

[0306] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element.

[0307] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element and the perimeter of the at least one removable element are provided with a series of spaced apart complementary holes for receiving fasteners therethrough.

[0308] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one removable element has an angle of curvature and shape that is the same as of the shield.

[0309] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, further comprising at least one second removable element for coupling to the outer TBM shield over the at least one preplanned opening.

[0310] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0311] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange.

[0312] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange, the flange extending outwardly from a base of the tubular section for anchoring against an annular pedestal of the at least one opening.

[0313] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the annular flange is provided with a series of spaced apart holes for aligning with the spaced apart holes provided around the perimeter of the at least one preplanned opening for receiving fasteners therethrough.

[0314] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the second removable element is positioned in substantially vertical position relative to the tunnel.

[0315] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to prevent rotational movement of said second removable element.

[0316] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to facilitate positioning of said second removable element substantially vertically relative to the tunnel. It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to facilitate positioning of said second removable element at an angle of 90 degrees ± 10 degrees relative to the tunnel.

[0317] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the TBM comprises multiple sections configured to be fastened together, at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, at least one of the opening being provided with the at least one removable element.

[0318] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the TBM is in communication with multiple sections configured to be fastened together or in communication with one another, at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the at least one of opening being provided with at least one removable element.

[0319] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, additionally comprising pushing means adapted to engage with at least one cleaning means, adapted to clean the inner surface of the tunnel.

[0320] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said pushing means is selected from a group consisting of air piping, pistons, air inflated element and any combination thereof.

[0321] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said pushing means are provided in the most distal end of said tunnel downstream of said at least one opening.

[0322] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein said cleaning means is selected from a group consisting of pig, any mechanical cleaning device and any combination thereof.

[0323] It is another object of the present invention to provide a system for recovery of at least parts of a TBM components from a tunnel, the system comprising a tunnel boring machine as defined above and at least one second removable element, the second removable element being configured to be attachable to the shield of the TBM to surround and extend from the at least one preplanned area.

[0324] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said preplanned area is marked, such that post the tunnel construction said preplanned area is identified. It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said at least one preplanned area is at least one preplanned opening.

[0325] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said at least one least one component is equipment selected from a group consisting from a group consisting of cutting tools, cutting head, excavation tools, pressure transducers, pipes, valves, steering machinery, power supply, pumps, motors, cooling means, measuring instruments, air regulating system, compressed air regulating system, control unit and any combination thereof.

[0326] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the system includes a TBM head that forms part of the tunnel, wherein upon at least partial removal of at least one component from the internal cavity of the TBM, the head remains in the ground and the at least one removable element is replaced with the at least one second removable element.

[0327] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0328] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element is connectable to riser going up from the tunnel to the surface of the water, lake, river, water reservoir, seawater and any combination thereof.

[0329] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in a part of the TBM shield that forms the head of the TBM.

[0330] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in an upper part of the TBM shield.

[0331] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one removable element is a removable cover sized and shaped to tight-fit seal said at least one opening.

[0332] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, said at least one removable element is adapted to at least partially cover said at least one opening. It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of plate, disc, saddle-like element and any combination thereof.

[0333] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

[0334] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said mechanically tight-fit of said at least one removable element is reversible from said at least one opening.

[0335] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said at least one removable element is either comprised of the same material as the outer shield or substantially a different material.

[0336] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein a perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element.

[0337] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the pedestal of the preplanned openings and perimeter of the at least one removable element are provided with a series of spaced apart complementary holes for receiving fasteners therethrough.

[0338] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one removable element has an angle of curvature and shape that is the same as of the shield.

[0339] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange.

[0340] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the TBM comprises multiple sections configured to be fastened together, at least one of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the opening being provided with the at least one removable element.

[0341] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the TBM is in communication with multiple sections configured to be fastened together or in communication with one another, at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the at least one of opening being provided with at least one removable element.

[0342] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, additionally comprising pushing means adapted to engage with at least one cleaning means, adapted to clean the inner surface of the tunnel.

[0343] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said pushing means is selected from a group consisting of air piping, pistons, air inflated element and any combination thereof.

[0344] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said pushing means are provided in the most distal end of said tunnel downstream of said at least one opening.

[0345] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein said cleaning means is selected from a group consisting of pig, any mechanical cleaning device and any combination thereof.

[0346] It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for the at least partial recovery of at least one component of a TBM from a tunnel, the method comprising: providing at least one tunnel boring machine (TBM) having at least two ends, one of which being provided with a cutting head, said TBM comprising or in communication with at least one section having an outer shield providing an internal cavity for at least partially housing at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation; wherein the outer TBM shield has at least one preplanned area in said shield, said area is configured such that post the tunnel construction said at least one preplanned area is removed; constructing at least one tunnel with said TBM; at least partially removing said at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation from the internal cavity of the TBM; and leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine in situ as part of the tunnel.

[0347] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said preplanned area is marked, such that post the tunnel construction said preplanned area is identified.

[0348] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said at least one preplanned area is at least one preplanned opening. It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said at least one opening being provided with at least one removable element, such that post the tunnel construction said at least one removable element is removed.

[0349] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said step of leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine comprising step of maintaining at least partially said at least one component in situ as part of the tunnel.

[0350] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said step of constructing at least one tunnel is performed by at least one selected from a group consisting of segment lining methodology, pipejacking methodology, any other suitable configuration and any combination thereof.

[0351] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising step of coupling at least one second removable element to the shield of the TBM to surround the at least one preplanned opening prior to or after removal of the at least one cover.

[0352] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising step of coupling at least two components together and removing the same simultaneously.

[0353] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising removing said at least one removable element from inside the tunnel to provide an opening.

[0354] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising removing said at least one removable element from outside the tunnel to provide an opening.

[0355] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein the at least one second removable element is attached after the removal of the at least one removable element.

[0356] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising sealing around the second removable element at its junction with the shield of the TBM.

[0357] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising placing a riser over the top of the shield in the location of the opening prior to at least one of removal of the removable element and attachment of the second removable element.

[0358] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising at least one of grouting or sealing around the riser between the riser and the shield of the TBM. It is another object of the present invention to provide a method for facilitating at least one marine structure to be connected to a tunnel, the method comprising: a. providing a tunnel boring machine according to any as defined above or system according to any as defined above; b. constructing at least one tunnel with said TBM; c. coupling together at least one second removable element to the shield of the TBM to surround the at least one preplanned opening prior to or after removal of the at least one removable element; thereby providing coupling of the tunnel to at least one marine structure; and, d. leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine with the at least one second removable element in situ to form part of the tunnel.

[0359] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said step of leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine comprising step of maintaining at least partially said at least one component in situ as part of the tunnel.

[0360] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said step of constructing at least one tunnel is performed by at least one selected from a group consisting of segment lining methodology, pipejacking methodology, any other suitable configuration and any combination thereof.

[0361] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, additionally comprising step of removing at least partially at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation from the internal cavity of the TBM.

[0362] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein said at least one removable element may be removed from the outside of the tunnel to provide the required opening.

[0363] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

[0364] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, additionally comprising step of placing a riser over the top of the shield in the location of the opening prior to or after the removal of the removable element and installation of the second removable element. It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, additionally comprising step of sealing around the joint between the riser and the tunnel.

[0365] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, further comprising step of coupling at least two components together and removing the same simultaneously.

[0366] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

[0367] It is another object of the present invention to provide the method as defined above, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

[0368] It is another object of the present invention to provide the system as defined above, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

[0369] It is another object of the present invention to provide the TBM as defined above, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

[0370] In the above description, an embodiment is an example or implementation of the invention. The various appearances of "one embodiment", "an embodiment" or "some embodiments" do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiments.

[0371] Although various features of the invention may be described in the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination.

[0372] Conversely, although the invention may be described herein in the context of separate embodiments for clarity, the invention may also be implemented in a single embodiment.

[0373] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the invention can be carried out or practiced in various ways and that the invention can be implemented in embodiments other than the ones outlined in the description above. Meanings of technical and scientific terms used herein are to be commonly understood as by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belong, unless otherwise defined.

[0374] All references cited throughout this application, for example patent documents including issued or granted patents or equivalents; patent application publications; and non-patent literature documents or other source material; are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties, as though individually incorporated by reference, to the extent each reference is at least partially not inconsistent with the disclosure in this application.

[0375] The terms and expressions which have been employed herein are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, but it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention claimed. Thus, it should be understood that although the present invention has been specifically disclosed by preferred embodiments, exemplary embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of the concepts herein disclosed may be resorted to by those skilled in the art, and that such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of this invention as defined by the appended claims. The specific embodiments provided herein are examples of useful embodiments of the present invention and it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be carried out using a large number of variations of the devices, device components, and method steps set forth in the present description. As will be obvious to one of skill in the art, methods and devices useful for the present methods can include a large number of optional composition and processing elements and steps.

[0376] When a group of substituents is disclosed herein, it is understood that all individual members of that group and all subgroups, including any isomers, enantiomers, and diastereomers of the group members, are disclosed separately. When a Markush group or other grouping is used herein, all individual members of the group and all combinations and sub-combinations possible of the group are intended to be individually included in the disclosure. When a compound is described herein such that a particular isomer, enantiomer or diastereomer of the compound is not specified, for example, in a formula or in a chemical name, that description is intended to include each isomer and enantiomer of the compound described individually or in any combination. Additionally, unless otherwise specified, all isotopic variants of compounds disclosed herein are intended to be encompassed by the disclosure. For example, it will be understood that any one or more hydrogens in a molecule disclosed can be replaced with deuterium or tritium. Isotopic variants of a molecule are generally useful as standards in assays for the molecule and in chemical and biological research related to the molecule or its use. Methods for making such isotopic variants are known in the art. Specific names of compounds are intended to be exemplary, as it is known that one of ordinary skill in the art can name the same compounds differently.

[0377] It must be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a cell" includes a plurality of such cells and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art, and so forth. As well, the terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more" and "at least one" can be used interchangeably herein. It is also to be noted that the terms "comprising", "including", and "having" can be used interchangeably. The expression "of any of claims XX-YY" (wherein XX and YY refer to claim numbers) is intended to provide a multiple dependent claim in the alternative form, and in some embodiments is interchangeable with the expression "as in any one of claims XX-YY."

[0378] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the present invention, the preferred methods and materials are described. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the invention is not entitled to antedate such disclosure by virtue of prior invention.

[0379] Whenever a range is given in the specification, for example, a range of integers, a temperature range, a time range, a composition range, or concentration range, all intermediate ranges and subranges, as well as all individual values included in the ranges given are intended to be included in the disclosure. As used herein, ranges specifically include the values provided as endpoint values of the range. As used herein, ranges specifically include all the integer values of the range. For example, a range of 1 to 100 specifically includes the end point values of 1 and 100. It will be understood that any subranges or individual values in a range or subrange that are included in the description herein can be excluded from the claims herein. The term "about" refers to any value being lower or greater than 20% of the defined measure.

[0380] As used herein, "comprising" is synonymous and can be used interchangeably with "including," "containing," or "characterized by," and is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. As used herein, "consisting of" excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claim element. As used herein, "consisting essentially of" does not exclude materials or steps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristics of the claim. In each instance herein any of the terms "comprising", "consisting essentially of" and "consisting of" can be replaced with either of the other two terms. The invention illustratively described herein suitably can be practiced in the absence of any element or elements, limitation or limitations which is not specifically disclosed herein.

[0381] One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that starting materials, biological materials, reagents, synthetic methods, purification methods, analytical methods, assay methods, and biological methods other than those specifically exemplified can be employed in the practice of the invention without resort to undue experimentation. All art-known functional equivalents, of any such materials and methods are intended to be included in this invention. The terms and expressions which have been employed are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions of excluding any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, but it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention claimed. Thus, it should be understood that although the invention has been specifically disclosed by preferred embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of the concepts herein disclosed can be resorted to by those skilled in the art, and that such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of this invention as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A tunnel boring machine (TBM) having at least two ends, one of which being provided with a cutting head, said TBM comprising or in communication with at least one section having an outer shield providing an internal cavity for at least partially housing at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation; wherein the outer TBM shield has at least one preplanned opening through shield, the opening being provided with at least one removable element, such that post the tunnel construction said at least one removable element is removed.

2. The TBM as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one least one component is at least one equipment selected from a group consisting from a group consisting of cutting tools, cutting head, excavation tools, pressure transducers, pipes, valves, steering machinery, power supply, pumps, motors, cooling means, measuring instruments, air regulating system, compressed air regulating system, control unit and any combination thereof.

3. The TBM as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one preplanned opening is provided in a part of the outer shield that forms a head of the TBM.

4. The TBM as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in an upper part of the outer TBM shield.

5. The TBM as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one removable element is a removable cover sized and shaped to tight-fit seal said at least one opening.

6. The TBM as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one removable element is adapted to at least partially cover said at least one opening.

7. The TBM as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of plate, disc, saddle-like element and any combination thereof.

8. The TBM as claimed in claim 1, wherein said at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

9. The TBM as claimed in claim 1, wherein said mechanically tight-fit of said at least one removable element is reversible from said at least one opening.

10. The TBM as claimed in claims 1-9, wherein the perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element.

11. The TBM as claimed in claims 1-10, wherein the perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element and the perimeter of the at least one removable element are provided with a series of spaced apart complementary holes for receiving fasteners therethrough.

12. The TBM as claimed in claims 1-11, wherein the at least one removable element has an angle of curvature and shape that is the same as of the shield.

13. The TBM as claimed in claims 1-12, further comprising at least one second removable element for coupling to the outer TBM shield over the at least one preplanned opening.

14. The TBM as claimed in claims 1-13, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

15. The TBM as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange.

16. The TBM as claimed in claim 14, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange, the flange extending outwardly from a base of the tubular section for anchoring against an annular pedestal of the at least one opening.

17. The TBM as claimed in claim 14, wherein the annular flange is provided with a series of spaced apart holes for aligning with the spaced apart holes provided around the perimeter of the at least one preplanned opening for receiving fasteners therethrough.

18. The TBM as claimed in claims 1-17, wherein the second removable element is positioned in substantially vertical position relative to the tunnel.

19. The TBM as claimed in claim 18, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to prevent rotational movement of said second removable element.

20. The TBM as claimed in claim 18, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to facilitate positioning of said second removable element substantially vertically relative to the tunnel.

21. The TBM as claimed in claim 18, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to facilitate positioning of said second removable element at an angle of 90 degrees ± 10 degrees relative to the tunnel.

22. The TBM as claimed in claims 1-21, wherein the TBM comprises multiple sections configured to be fastened together, at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, at least one of the opening being provided with the at least one removable element.

23. The TBM as claimed in claims 1-21, wherein the TBM is in communication with multiple sections configured to be fastened together or in communication with one another, at leastsome of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the at least one of opening being provided with at least one removable element.

24. The TBM as claimed in claims 1-21, additionally comprising pushing means adapted to engage with at least one cleaning means, adapted to clean the inner surface of the tunnel.

25. The TBM as claimed in claim 24, wherein said pushing means is selected from a group consisting of air piping, pistons, air inflated element and any combination thereof.

26. The TBM as claimed in claim 24, wherein said pushing means are provided in the most distal end of said tunnel downstream of said at least one opening.

27. The TBM as claimed in claim 24, wherein said cleaning means is selected from a group consisting of pig, any mechanical cleaning device and any combination thereof.

28. A system for recovery of at least parts of a TBM components from a tunnel, the system comprising a tunnel boring machine as claimed in any of claims 1-17 and at least one second removable element, the second removable element being configured to be attachable to the shield of the TBM to surround and extend from the at least one preplanned opening.

29. The system as claimed in claim 28, wherein said at least one least one component is equipment selected from a group consisting from a group consisting of cutting tools, cutting head, excavation tools, pressure transducers, pipes, valves, steering machinery, power supply, pumps, motors, cooling means, measuring instruments, air regulating system, compressed air regulating system, control unit and any combination thereof.

30. The system as claimed in claim 28, wherein the system includes a TBM head that forms part of the tunnel, wherein upon at least partial removal of at least one component from the internal cavity of the TBM, the head remains in the ground and the at least one removable element is replaced with the at least one second removable element.

31. The system as claimed in claims 28-30, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

32. The system as claimed in claims 28-31, wherein the at least one second removable element is connectable to riser going up from the tunnel to the surface of the water, lake, river, water reservoir, seawater and any combination thereof.

33. The system as claimed in claims 28-32, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in a part of the TBM shield that forms the head of the TBM.

34. The system as claimed in claims 28-33, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in an upper part of the TBM shield.

35. The system as claimed in claims 28-34, wherein the at least one removable element is a removable cover sized and shaped to tight-fit seal said at least one opening.

36. The system as claimed in claims 28-35, said at least one removable element is adapted to at least partially cover said at least one opening.

37. The system as claimed in claims 28-36, said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of plate, disc, saddle-like element and any combination thereof.

38. The system as claimed in claim 28, wherein said at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

39. The system as claimed in claim 35, wherein said mechanically tight-fit of said at least one removable element is reversible from said at least one opening.

40. The system as claimed in claims 28-39, wherein said at least one removable element is either comprised of the same material as the outer shield or substantially a different material.

41. The system as claimed in claims 28-40, wherein a perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element.

42. The system as claimed in claim 41, wherein the pedestal of the preplanned openings and perimeter of the at least one removable element are provided with a series of spaced apart complementary holes for receiving fasteners therethrough.

43. The system as claimed in claims 28-41, wherein the at least one removable element has an angle of curvature and shape that is the same as of the shield.

44. The system as claimed in claims 28-43, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange.

45. The system as claimed in claim 44, wherein the TBM comprises multiple sections configured to be fastened together, at least one of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the opening being provided with the at least one removable element.

46. The system as claimed in claims 28-45, wherein the TBM is in communication with multiple sections configured to be fastened together or in communication with one another, at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the at least one of opening being provided with at least one removable element.

47. The system as claimed in claims 28-46, additionally comprising pushing means adapted to engage with at least one cleaning means, adapted to clean the inner surface of the tunnel.

48. The system as claimed in claim 47, wherein said pushing means is selected from a group consisting of air piping, pistons, air inflated element and any combination thereof.

49. The system as claimed in claim 48, wherein said pushing means are provided in the most distal end of said tunnel downstream of said at least one opening.

50. The system as claimed in claim 47, wherein said cleaning means is selected from a group consisting of pig, any mechanical cleaning device and any combination thereof.

51. A method for the at least partial recovery of at least one component of a TBM from a tunnel, the method comprising: providing at least one tunnel boring machine (TBM) having at least two ends, one of which being provided with a cutting head, said TBM comprising or in communication with at least one section having an outer shield providing an internal cavity for at least partially housing at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation; wherein the outer TBM shield has at least one preplanned opening through shield, the opening being provided with at least one removable element, such that post the tunnel construction said at least one removable element is removed; constructing at least one tunnel with said TBM; at least partially removing said at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation from the internal cavity of the TBM; and leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine in situ as part of the tunnel.

52. The method according to claim 51, wherein said step of leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine comprising step of maintaining at least partially said at least one component in situ as part of the tunnel.

53. The method according to claim 51, wherein said step of constructing at least one tunnel is performed by at least one selected from a group consisting of segment lining methodology, pipejacking methodology, any other suitable configuration and any combination thereof.

54. The method according to claim 51, further comprising step of coupling at least one second removable element to the shield of the TBM to surround the at least one preplanned opening prior to or after removal of the at least one cover.

55. The method according to claims 51-54, further comprising step of coupling at least two components together and removing the same simultaneously.

56. The method according to claims 51-55, further comprising removing said at least one removable element from inside the tunnel to provide an opening.

57. The method according to claims 51-56, further comprising removing said at least one removable element from outside the tunnel to provide an opening.

58. The method according to claims 51-57, wherein the at least one second removable element is attached after the removal of the at least one removable element.

59. The method according to claim 51, further comprising sealing around the second removable element at its junction with the shield of the TBM.

60. The method according to claim 51, further comprising placing a riser over the top of the shield in the location of the opening prior to at least one of removal of the removable element and attachment of the second removable element.

61. The method according to claim 60, further comprising at least one of grouting or sealing around the riser between the riser and the shield of the TBM.

62. A method for facilitating at least one marine structure to be connected to a tunnel, the method comprising: a. providing a tunnel boring machine or system according to any of claims 1-34; b. constructing at least one tunnel with said TBM; c. coupling together at least one second removable element to the shield of the TBM to surround the at least one preplanned opening prior to or after removal of the at least one removable element; thereby providing coupling of the tunnel to at least one marine structure; and, d. leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine with the at least one second removable element in situ to form part of the tunnel.

63. The method according to claim 62, wherein said step of leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine comprising step of maintaining at least partially said at least one component in situ as part of the tunnel.

64. The method according to claim 62, wherein said step of constructing at least one tunnel is performed by at least one selected from a group consisting of segment lining methodology, pipejacking methodology, any other suitable configuration and any combination thereof.

65. The method according to claim 62, additionally comprising step of removing at least partially at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation from the internal cavity of the TBM.

66. The method according to claims 62-65, wherein said at least one removable element may be removed from the outside of the tunnel to provide the required opening.

67. The method according to claims 62-66, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a groupconsisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

68. The method according to claims 62-67, additionally comprising step of placing a riser over the top of the shield in the location of the opening prior to or after the removal of the removable element and installation of the second removable element.

69. The method according to claim 68, additionally comprising step of sealing around the joint between the riser and the tunnel.

70. The method according to claims 62-69, further comprising step of coupling at least two components together and removing the same simultaneously.

71. The method according to claim 62, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

72. The method according to claim 62, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

73. The system according to claim 18, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

74. The TBM according to claim 1, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

75. A tunnel boring machine (TBM) having at least two ends, one of which being provided with a cutting head, said TBM comprising or in communication with at least one section having an outer shield providing an internal cavity for at least partially housing at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation; wherein the outer TBM shield has at least one preplanned area in said shield, said area is configured such that post the tunnel construction said at least one preplanned area is removed.

76. The TBM according to claim 75, wherein said preplanned area is marked, such that post the tunnel construction said preplanned area is identified.

77. The TBM according to claim 75, wherein said at least one preplanned area is at least one preplanned opening.

78. The TBM according to claim 77 , wherein said at least one opening being provided with at least one removable element, such that post the tunnel construction said at least one removable element is removed.

79. The TBM as claimed in claim 75, wherein said at least one least one component is at least one equipment selected from a group consisting from a group consisting of cutting tools, cutting head, excavation tools, pressure transducers, pipes, valves, steering machinery, power supply, pumps, motors, cooling means, measuring instruments, air regulating system, compressed air regulating system, control unit and any combination thereof.

80. The TBM as claimed in claim 75, wherein at least one preplanned opening is provided in a part of the outer shield that forms a head of the TBM.

81. The TBM as claimed in claim 75, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in an upper part of the outer TBM shield.

82. The TBM as claimed in claim 75, wherein the at least one removable element is a removable cover sized and shaped to tight-fit seal said at least one opening.

83. The TBM as claimed in claim 75, wherein said at least one removable element is adapted to at least partially cover said at least one opening.

84. The TBM as claimed in claim 75, wherein said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of plate, disc, saddle-like element and any combination thereof.

85. The TBM as claimed in claim 75, wherein said at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

86. The TBM as claimed in claim 75, wherein said mechanically tight-fit of said at least one removable element is reversible from said at least one opening.

87. The TBM as claimed in claims 75-77, wherein the perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element.

88. The TBM as claimed in claims 75-87, wherein the perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element and the perimeter of the at least one removable element are provided with a series of spaced apart complementary holes for receiving fasteners therethrough.

89. The TBM as claimed in claims 75-88, wherein the at least one removable element has an angle of curvature and shape that is the same as of the shield.

90. The TBM as claimed in claims 75-89, further comprising at least one second removable element for coupling to the outer TBM shield over the at least one preplanned opening.

91. The TBM as claimed in claims 75-90, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

92. The TBM as claimed in claim 91, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange.

93. The TBM as claimed in claim 91, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange, the flange extending outwardly from a base of the tubular section for anchoring against an annular pedestal of the at least one opening.

94. The TBM as claimed in claim 91, wherein the annular flange is provided with a series of spaced apart holes for aligning with the spaced apart holes provided around the perimeter of the at least one preplanned opening for receiving fasteners therethrough.

95. The TBM as claimed in claims 75-94, wherein the second removable element is positioned in substantially vertical position relative to the tunnel.

96. The TBM as claimed in claim 95, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to prevent rotational movement of said second removable element.

97. The TBM as claimed in claim 95, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to facilitate positioning of said second removable element substantially vertically relative to the tunnel.

98. TheTBM as claimed in claim 95, wherein said TBM is provided with means adapted to facilitate positioning of said second removable element at an angle of 90 degrees ± 10 degrees relative to the tunnel.

99. The TBM as claimed in claims 75-98, wherein the TBM comprises multiple sections configured to be fastened together, at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, at least one of the opening being provided with the at least one removable element.

100. The TBM as claimed in claims 75-99, wherein the TBM is in communication with multiple sections configured to be fastened together or in communication with one another, at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the at least one of opening being provided with at least one removable element.

101. The TBM as claimed in claims 75-100, additionally comprising pushing means adapted to engage with at least one cleaning means, adapted to clean the inner surface of the tunnel.

102. The TBM as claimed in claim 101, wherein said pushing means is selected from a group consisting of air piping, pistons, air inflated element and any combination thereof.

103. The TBM as claimed in claim 101, wherein said pushing means are provided in the most distal end of said tunnel downstream of said at least one opening.

104. The TBM as claimed in claim 101, wherein said cleaning means is selected from a group consisting of pig, any mechanical cleaning device and any combination thereof.

105. A system for recovery of at least parts of a TBM components from a tunnel, the system comprising a tunnel boring machine as claimed in any of claims 75-104 and at least one second removable element, the second removable element being configured to be attachable to the shield of the TBM to surround and extend from the at least one preplanned area.

106. The system according to claim 105, wherein said preplanned area is marked, such that post the tunnel construction said preplanned area is identified.

107. The system according to claim 105, wherein said at least one preplanned area is at least one preplanned opening.

108. The system as claimed in claim 105, wherein said at least one least one component is equipment selected from a group consisting from a group consisting of cutting tools, cutting head, excavation tools, pressure transducers, pipes, valves, steering machinery, power supply, pumps, motors, cooling means, measuring instruments, air regulating system, compressed air regulating system, control unit and any combination thereof.

109. The system as claimed in claim 105, wherein the system includes a TBM head that forms part of the tunnel, wherein upon at least partial removal of at least one component from the internal cavity of the TBM, the head remains in the ground and the at least one removable element is replaced with the at least one second removable element.

110. The system as claimed in claims 105-109, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

111. The system as claimed in claims 105-110, wherein the at least one second removable element is connectable to riser going up from the tunnel to the surface of the water, lake, river, water reservoir, seawater and any combination thereof.

112. The system as claimed in claims 105-111, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in a part of the TBM shield that forms the head of the TBM.

113. The system as claimed in claims 105-112, wherein the at least one preplanned opening is provided in an upper part of the TBM shield.

114. The system as claimed in claims 105-113, wherein the at least one removable element is a removable cover sized and shaped to tight-fit seal said at least one opening.

115. The system as claimed in claims 105-114, said at least one removable element is adapted to at least partially cover said at least one opening.

116. The system as claimed in claims 105-115, said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of plate, disc, saddle-like element and any combination thereof.

117. The system as claimed in claim 105, wherein said at least one section is at least one selected from a group consisting of steel jacking pipe, carbon steel pipe, concrete pipe and any combination thereof.

118. The system as claimed in claim 117, wherein said mechanically tight-fit of said at least one removable element is reversible from said at least one opening.

119. The system as claimed in claims 105-118, wherein said at least one removable element is either comprised of the same material as the outer shield or substantially a different material.

120. The system as claimed in claims 105-119, wherein a perimeter of the at least one opening is provided with an annular pedestal for receipt of the at least one removable element.

121. The system as claimed in claim 120, wherein the pedestal of the preplanned openings and perimeter of the at least one removable element are provided with a series of spaced apart complementary holes for receiving fasteners therethrough.

122. The system as claimed in claims 105-121, wherein the at least one removable element has an angle of curvature and shape that is the same as of the shield.

123. The system as claimed in claims 105-122, wherein the at least one second removable element comprises an annular flange and a tubular section extending upwardly from the flange.

124. The system as claimed in claim 123, wherein the TBM comprises multiple sections configured to be fastened together, at least one of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the opening being provided with the at least one removable element.

125. The system as claimed in claims 105-124, wherein the TBM is in communication with multiple sections configured to be fastened together or in communication with one another,at least some of the sections being provided with the at least one preplanned opening through outer shield, the at least one of opening being provided with at least one removable element.

126. The system as claimed in claims 105-125, additionally comprising pushing means adapted to engage with at least one cleaning means, adapted to clean the inner surface of the tunnel.

127. The system as claimed in claim 126, wherein said pushing means is selected from a group consisting of air piping, pistons, air inflated element and any combination thereof.

128. The system as claimed in claim 127, wherein said pushing means are provided in the most distal end of said tunnel downstream of said at least one opening.

129. The system as claimed in claim 126, wherein said cleaning means is selected from a group consisting of pig, any mechanical cleaning device and any combination thereof.

130. A method for the at least partial recovery of at least one component of a TBM from a tunnel, the method comprising: providing at least one tunnel boring machine (TBM) having at least two ends, one of which being provided with a cutting head, said TBM comprising or in communication with at least one section having an outer shield providing an internal cavity for at least partially housing at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation; wherein the outer TBM shield has at least one preplanned area in said shield, said area is configured such that post the tunnel construction said at least one preplanned area is removed; constructing at least one tunnel with said TBM; at least partially removing said at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation from the internal cavity of the TBM; and leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine in situ as part of the tunnel.

131. The method according to claim 130, wherein said preplanned area is marked, such that post the tunnel construction said preplanned area is identified.

132. The method according to claim 130, wherein said at least one preplanned area is at least one preplanned opening.

133. The method according to claim 132, wherein said at least one opening being provided with at least one removable element, such that post the tunnel construction said at least one removable element is removed.

134. The method according to claim 130, wherein said step of leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine comprising step of maintaining at least partially said at least one component in situ as part of the tunnel.

135. The method according to claim 130, wherein said step of constructing at least one tunnel is performed by at least one selected from a group consisting of segment lining methodology, pipejacking methodology, any other suitable configuration and any combination thereof.

136. The method according to claim 130, further comprising step of coupling at least one second removable element to the shield of the TBM to surround the at least one preplanned opening prior to or after removal of the at least one cover.

137. The method according to claims 130-136, further comprising step of coupling at least two components together and removing the same simultaneously.

138. The method according to claims 130-137, further comprising removing said at least one removable element from inside the tunnel to provide an opening.

139. The method according to claims 130-138, further comprising removing said at least one removable element from outside the tunnel to provide an opening.

140. The method according to claims 130-139, wherein the at least one second removable element is attached after the removal of the at least one removable element.

141. The method according to claim 130, further comprising sealing around the second removable element at its junction with the shield of the TBM.

142. The method according to claim 130, further comprising placing a riser over the top of the shield in the location of the opening prior to at least one of removal of the removable element and attachment of the second removable element.

143. The method according to claim 142, further comprising at least one of grouting or sealing around the riser between the riser and the shield of the TBM.

144. A method for facilitating at least one marine structure to be connected to a tunnel, the method comprising: a. providing a tunnel boring machine according to any of claims 75-104 or system according to any of claims 105-129; b. constructing at least one tunnel with said TBM; c. coupling together at least one second removable element to the shield of the TBM to surround the at least one preplanned opening prior to or after removal of the at least one removable element; thereby providing coupling of the tunnel to at least one marine structure; and,d. leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine with the at least one second removable element in situ to form part of the tunnel.

145. The method according to claim 144, wherein said step of leaving at least the part of the tunnel boring machine comprising step of maintaining at least partially said at least one component in situ as part of the tunnel.

146. The method according to claim 144, wherein said step of constructing at least one tunnel is performed by at least one selected from a group consisting of segment lining methodology, pipejacking methodology, any other suitable configuration and any combination thereof.

147. The method according to claim 144, additionally comprising step of removing at least partially at least one component for tunnel excavation and formation from the internal cavity of the TBM.

148. The method according to claims 144-147, wherein said at least one removable element may be removed from the outside of the tunnel to provide the required opening.

149. The method according to claims 142-148, wherein the second removable element is at least one selected from a group consisting (a) the second removable element is selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (b) the second removable element comprises means for coupling with at least one selected from a group consisting of tubing, piping, riser, casing, port and any combination thereof; (c) any combination thereof.

150. The method according to claims 142-149, additionally comprising step of placing a riser over the top of the shield in the location of the opening prior to or after the removal of the removable element and installation of the second removable element.

151. The method according to claim 150, additionally comprising step of sealing around the joint between the riser and the tunnel.

152. The method according to claims 142-151, further comprising step of coupling at least two components together and removing the same simultaneously.

153. The method according to claim 142, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle- like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

154. The method according to claim 142, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle- like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

155. The system according to claim 105, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle- like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

156. The TBM according to claim 75, wherein the shape, size or cross-sectional area of said at least one removable element is selected from a group consisting of circular, saddle-like, triangular, rectangle or any other shape known in the art and any combination thereof.

Images