An evacuation tunnel system and a method for establishing an evacuation tunnel in existing road / train tunnels

Abstract

The disclosure relates to an evacuation tunnel system comprising: a plurality of tunnel modules (10), the tunnel module(10) comprising a roof part (11) and two walls parts (12), a base (20), and the tunnel modules (10) are configured to be arranged in a continuous line on top of the base (20) to form a tunnel with walls, roof and floor. The disclosure further relates to a method for establishing an evacuation tunnel in existing road / train tunnels, the system is characterized by the base (20) comprises: one or more channels / recesses (21, 21') for holding one or more of cables (31), pipes (33) and conduits (32), and second parallel receiving surfaces (23, 23'), in the longitudinal direction, for receiving floor elements (24, 24') covering the channels / recesses (21).

Description

[0001] An evacuation tunnel system and a method for establishing an evacuation tunnel in existing road / train tunnels

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present disclosure relates to an evacuation tunnel system and a method for establishing an evacuation tunnel in existing road / train tunnels. More specifically, the disclosure relates to an evacuation tunnel system and a method for establishing an evacuation tunnel in existing road / train tunnels as defined in the introductory parts of the independent claims.

[0004] Background art

[0005] Tunnels are part of the road network, and in existing single-hole double-track tunnels it is often an issue to raise the security level and upgrade the tunnels to new safety standards. The solution to such upgrades has until now relied on building new pipes in parallel to existing tunnel, and then build corridors in communication between the two for the purpose of evacuation in emergencies A problem with the solutions of the prior art is that this is very expensive and tedious operation, and often the upgrades are postponed or abandoned due to financial shortcomings from the owner / authorities. Further it is a problem in single-hole double-track tunnels to ensure rescue operations to reach accident locations with resources, personnel and equipment. Problems when evacuating persons from an accident in a tunnel, and specifically in single-hole double-track tunnels, is the lack of clean air. Without clean air, any rescue operation may be jeopardized. There is thus a need for improved evacuation tunnel system and a method for establishing an evacuation tunnel in existing road / train tunnels, and specifically in single-hole double-track tunnels.

[0006] As an example: in Norway, the car fleet has grown significantly over the past 20 years, and one of the most striking features is the increase in electric cars. In 2023, 2,876,692 passenger cars were registered, of which more than 689,000 were electric vehicles. This represents a significant increase compared to 2016, when the number of electric cars was below 100,000. This growth has placed new demands on tunnel safety, as electric car fires represent specific challenges in terms of intense heat generation and the need for large amounts of water when extinguishing the fire. Tunnel fires, especially those involving vehicles with flammable materials or electric vehicles, are a major safety challenge. Examples of serious tunnel fires include:

[0007] Mont Blanc Tunnel (1999); on March 24, 1999, a Belgian truck caught fire in the Mont Blanc Tunnel, which connects France and Italy. The fire spread quickly, killing 39 people. The fire burned for 53 hours, reaching temperatures of over 1000°C, causing extensive damage to the tunnel.

[0008] Gotthard Tunnel (2001); The Gotthard Tunnel fire occurred on October 24, 2001, when two trucks collided in the tunnel, causing a fire that claimed 11 lives.

[0009] These types of incidents have raised the awareness of tunnel safety, such as escape routes, ventilation systems, and smoke management. It further highlights problem areas such as: ensuring that escape routes are easily accessible, that smoke can be effectively vented, and that rescue services can respond quickly to accidents.

[0010] It is the object of the present disclosure to mitigate, alleviate or eliminate one or more of the above-identified deficiencies and disadvantages in the prior art and solve at least the above mentioned problem. According to a first aspect there is provided an evacuation tunnel system comprising: a plurality of tunnel modules, the tunnel module comprising a roof part and two walls parts, a base, and the tunnel modules are configured to be arranged in a continuous line on top of the base to form a tunnel with walls, roof and floor, the system is characterized by: the base comprises: one or more channels / recesses for holding one or more of cables, pipes and conduits, and second parallel receiving surfaces, in the longitudinal direction, for receiving floor elements covering the channels / recesses.

[0011] Thus, making it possible to provide an evacuation tunnel inside a single-hole tunnel without drilling a separate tunnel hole with corresponding conduits between the two for accessing the evacuation tunnel from / to the other tunnel.

[0012] According to some embodiments, the base further comprises: first parallel receiving surfaces, in the longitudinal direction, for receiving the wall parts of the tunnel modules.

[0013] Fast mounting process is secured by the aligning properties of the parallel receiving surfaces.

[0014] According to some embodiments, one of the one or more channle / recesses for holding power and signal cables comprise a non-permeable floor element arranged above the channel / recess for sealing the channel / recess off. Thus, a fire- and water-proof channel for hosting vulnerable equipment like power and signal cables is provided.

[0015] According to some embodiments, the base is provided from a plurality of base elements arranged in a row.

[0016] Modularity of the base and tunnel elements ensures manageable size modules when mounting the evacuation tunnel.

[0017] According to some embodiments, the evacuation comprises: a transporting device for transporting a tunnel module, the transporting device comprising at least one pair of wheels configured to run on one of first parallel receiving surfaces, the second parallel surfaces of the base, or a flat surface.

[0018] The base or separate tacks may thus be used for easy transport and arranging the tunnel modules such that they form part of the evacuation tunnel.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the tunnel module has an upside down U-form the evacuation comprises the two wall parts and the roof part.

[0020] According to some embodiments, at least one tunnel module is configured for having evacuation doors mounted in at least one of the wall parts.

[0021] According to some embodiments, one or more of the tunnel modules comprise one or two inside wall elements in the longitudinal direction, and the inside wall elements comprise an escape door wherein the inside wall element and the escape door arranged in the inside wall element are configured to close off the tunnel module above floor elements in the longitudinal direction, the floor elements being mounted on the corresponding base area or base element.

[0022] Escape doors ensures that fumes and spills coming through the evacuation doors have less chance of polluting the complete evacuation tunnel.

[0023] According to some embodiments, one or more tunnel modules comprising one or more evacuation doors and at least two inside wall elements with corresponding escape door are configured as a pressurized evacuation chamber.

[0024] Pressure chamber layout improves the ability to clean up polluted air sneaking into the evacuation channel does not impact the whole tunnel. According to some embodiments, the pressurized evacuation chamber further comprises a ventilation system for removing smoke and gas from the evacuation chamber.

[0025] According to some embodiments, the cables, pipes and conduits carries one or more of: power and / or signal cables, water supply, fresh air, exhaust air / smoke, and draining water.

[0026] According to a second aspect there is provided a method for establishing an evacuation tunnel in existing road / train tunnels, comprising the steps: arranging alongside a wall of a tunnel: a base and a plurality of tunnel modules according to any of the first aspects, to form an emergency escape tunnel inside the tunnel.

[0027] According to some embodiments, the method comprises before arranging the base and the plurality of tunnel modules: excavation of a longitudinal running space alongside one longitudinal side of the tunnel in order to make space for the emergency escape tunnel.

[0028] According to some embodiments, the base is comprised of a plurality of base elements, and: the plurality of base elements is arranged in the tunnel prior to arranging the tunnel modules.

[0029] According to some embodiments, the arranging of tunnel elements is transported in place using a transporting device for transporting a tunnel module, wherein the wheels are running on the first parallel receiving surfaces, or the second parallel surfaces of the base, or a flat surface.

[0030] According to some embodiments, arranging a non-permeable floor element above the channel / recess in one of the one or more channel / recesses power and signal cables, for providing a fire-, water- and gas-proof environment.

[0031] According to some embodiments, the method comprises the steps: arranging one or more of cables, pipes and conduits, in the one or more channels of the base.

[0032] According to some embodiments the method comprises the steps: arranging floor elements on second parallel receiving surfaces of the base for covering the channels.

[0033] Effects and features of the second aspect are to a large extent analogous to those described above in connection with the first aspect. Embodiments mentioned in relation to the first aspect are largely compatible with the second aspect.

[0034] The present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description given below. The detailed description and specific examples disclose preferred embodiments of the disclosure by way of illustration only. Those skilled in the art understand from guidance in the detailed description that changes and modifications may be made within the scope of the disclosure.

[0035] Hence, it is to be understood that the herein disclosed disclosure is not limited to the particular component parts of the device described or steps of the methods described since such device and method may vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. It should be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claim, the articles "a", "an", "the", and "said" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements unless the context explicitly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "a unit" or "the unit" may include several devices, and the like. Furthermore, the words "comprising", "including", "containing" and similar wordings does not exclude other elements or steps.

[0036] Terminology

[0037] The term " power and signal cables " is to be interpreted as any type of power cables and any type of signal lines, also including fiber-optic cables.

[0038] Brief iptions of the

[0039] The above objects, as well as additional objects, features and advantages of the present disclosure, will be more fully appreciated by reference to the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of example embodiments of the present disclosure, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0040] Figure 1 shows a top view of a tunnel element according to present disclosure

[0041] Figure 2A and 2B shows the base without and with respectively channels / recesses holding pipes and cables mounted inside the channels

[0042] Figure 2C shows the upside-down U-form of the tunnel module

[0043] Figure 2D shows the tunnel module mounted on the base

[0044] Figure 2E shows the base in a second embodiment Figure 2F shows the upside-down U-form of the tunnel module arranged on the base according to figure 2E

[0045] Figure 3 shows a single tunnel module mounted as a pressurized zone

[0046] Figure 4 shows the assembly process of the evacuation tunnel

[0047] Figure 5 show how floor elements are arranged in a row to form a platform

[0048] Figure 6 shows an array of floor elements combined to form the base of the evacuation channel.

[0049] Figure 7 shows three single tunnel modules mounted as a pressurized zone

[0050] Figure 8A and 8B illustrates how the tunnel modules may be arranged to accommodate for a running line deviating from the straight line

[0051] Detailed description

[0052] The present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which preferred example embodiments of the disclosure are shown. The disclosure may, however, be embodied in other forms and should not be construed as limited to the herein disclosed embodiments. The disclosed embodiments are provided to fully convey the scope of the disclosure to the skilled person.

[0053] Figure 2D shows a complete segment of an evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure. In figure 5 it is shown how multiple segments of an evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure arrange one after another constitutes a complete evacuation tunnel being located inside a single hole tunnel.

[0054] The first aspect of this disclosure shows an evacuation tunnel system comprising: a plurality of tunnel modules 10, the tunnel modulelO comprising a roof part 11 and two wall parts 12, a base 20, and the tunnel modules 10 are configured to be arranged in a continuous line on top of the base 20 to form a tunnel with walls, roof and floor the system is characterized by the base 20 comprises: one or more channels / recesses 21, 21' for holding one or more of cables 31, pipes 33 and conduits 32, and second parallel receiving surfaces 23, 23', in the longitudinal direction, for receiving floor elements 24, 24' covering the channels / recesses (21).

[0055] In a second embodiment of the base 20 , as shown in figure 2E and 2F, the parallel receiving surfaces 23, 23' of the first embodiment shown in figure 2A coincides with the upper surface of the walls 26, 26' of the base 20. It is also a proposed to let the floor elements 24, 24' be a single floor element reaching from wall to wall 12 of the tunnel module 10, alternatively with a non-permeable 24 or permeable portion 24' to be arranged over a channels / recesses 21, 21' requiring non-permeability or permeability correpsondingly in the floor element section. Alternatively two or more floor elements may be laid in pa ra lei I on the parallel receiving surfaces 26, 26', wherein any of the floor elements may be non-permeable or permeable accoring to what is required in any specific deployment.

[0056] The evacuation tunnel system according to present disclosure is designed to ensure the safe evacuation of persons from single hole tunnels in case of emergency and is specifically designed for single-hole tunnels that do not meet industry requirements for such tunnels. The evacuation tunnel system according to present disclosure functions as a parallel escape route with innovative solutions that combine both safety and sustainability and is designed to facilitate evacuation in the event of fire, collisions or other emergencies.

[0057] The base 20 may comprise: first parallel receiving surfaces 22, in the longitudinal direction, for receiving the bottom part of the wall parts 12 of the tunnel modules 10.

[0058] One embodiment of the base 20 and the tunnel module 10 is outlined in figure 2A-D, illustrating how the tunnel module 10 may be arranged on the first parallel receiving surfaces 22 of the base 20.

[0059] The evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure may allow rescuers to connect directly to a water supply network for rapid extinguishing of fires. This reduces the time it takes to start extinguishing fire. When dealing with fires in electric vehicles, there is a requirement of large amounts of water, and the presented evacuation tunnel may provide this.

[0060] The base 20 may thus be ideal for arranging of additional equipment such as, but not limited to: integrating pipes and conduits such as water pipes fresh air pipes, drainage pipes, and further power lines, signalling lines, etc. In one embodiment of present disclosure one of the one or more channel / recesses 21 for holding power and signal cables 31 comprise a non-permeable floor element 24 arranged above the channel / recess for sealing the channel / recess off.

[0061] Thus, the one or more channels / recesses 21, 21' have outer walls 26 for receiving floor elements 24, 24'. When more than one channels / recesses 21, 21' are provided, a middle wall 26' is arranged in longitudinal direction between the outer walls 26. The middle wall 26' may provide receiving surfaces 23' for floor elements and may be configured in a manner for sideway sealing off the various channels in an air and fluid tight manner. More than one middle wall 26' may be provided when more than two channels / recesses are provided.

[0062] Even if the embodiments outlined in the figures show a prefabricated base 20, it shall be understood that the base according to present disclosure can be custom made onsite, with for example concrete formed and cured onsite.

[0063] As indicated in figure 2A the base may be comprising draining conduits 29, 29', wherein the draining conduits may be arranged as one way flowing draining valves. The purpose is to drain water and fluids from the inside of the evacuation tunnel down into to the underlying rock / gravel / building sole material. When sealing off one of the channel / recesses 21 for accommodating for example power and electrical cables, the draining conduits 29' may be omitted in this channel / recess 21 to ensure that no leakage out of and in to the conduit is possible.

[0064] The base may thus be ideal for arranging of additional equipment such as, but not limited to: integrating water pipes 33, drainage pipes 55,32, power lines 31, signalling lines 31, conduits for evacuation of gases 55,32 etc. In the figure, for example in figure 3, drainage pipes, drain and ventilation devices, conduits have the same number. This signals they may have combinational function, but it shall further be understood that there may be provided dedicated drainage pipes with drain points as well as dedicated conduits with ventilation devices for evacuation of gases, even if such dedicated doubling of draining equipment hasn't been drawn in the figures.

[0065] With the evacuation tunnel according to the present disclosure, rescuers may reach a scene of an accident inside the tunnel without using the existing main tunnel, which is often filled with smoke and toxic gases during a fire or accident. A separate escape route gives them safe access to the scene, and it will be easier for rescuers to get closer to the fire without the risk of smoke inhalation. This reduces the risk for rescuers and allows them to act faster and more effectively.

[0066] The floor elements 24, 24' may be a provided with a variation of features. For example, as shown in figure 2D, a non-permeable floor element 24 is arranged above the channel / recess 21 that are allocated for holding for example power and signal cables 31. The watertight floor element 24 may further be made of a non-flammable material. It is thus provided a fire-, water- and gas-proof channel environment where electrical cables, for example for power and signal transmission, are protected from water ingress, and which may be ga and fireproof / resistant. In case of a fire this channel / recess 21 may be protected both from fire and fire fighting activity such as flooding. As seen in the figure it is also provided a permeable floor element 24' that may be arranged above the channel / recess 21' allocated for holding fresh air pipes 33. Ventilation tube comprises valves for outputting fresh air, the valves typically being arranged in the evacuation chamber 60. When tunnel modules 10 has been arranged on the base 20 is, and preferable when channel / recesses 21, 21' has been filed with equipment, it is advantageous to lay the floor of the evacuation tunnel. The second parallel receiving surfaces 23, 23' may advantageously be used as a custom fitted holding recess for the floor elements 24, 24'. It should however be understood that the invention according to present disclosure also supports a simpler arrangement of channel / recesses 21, 21' and floor elements 24, 24'. For example, there may be none or only one channel / recess 21, 21', only one floor element 24, 24' and / or separate conduits / channels (not shown) for holding equipment as discussed for the channel / recesses above.

[0067] In one embodiment of present disclosure the base 20 is provided from a plurality of base elements 25 arranged in a row as exemplified in figure 8. One way of using reproduced base elements is to make them with the same or double the longitudinal size of the tunnel module 10. Thus, the layout may be simplified and the process of arranging the base elements and tunnel modules may be synchronized.

[0068] The evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure may further comprise a transporting device 40 for transporting a base element 20 and / or a tunnel module 10, the transporting device 40 comprising at least one pair of wheels 41 that may be configured to run on one of first parallel receiving surfaces 22, the second parallel 23 surfaces of the base 20, or a flat surface.

[0069] It is within the inventive concept of the evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure that such a transporting device 40 may be able to run on any floor surface being flat or substantially flat, not being dependent on the parallel 23 surfaces of the base 20, for transporting either base elements or tunnel modules 10. As an alternative, when the transporting device 40 wheels are required to run on guided surfaces, the first parallel receiving surfaces 22 for receiving tunnel modules 10 may be configured for providing a parallel going surface whereon the wheels 41 of the transporting device can run, in a setting where the tunnel elements are not yet mounted.

[0070] Thus, an environmentally friendly and rational way to assemble the elements is provided, which significantly reduces emissions from fossil construction machinery and provides the opportunity for a very efficient deployment process.

[0071] The tunnel module 10 may have an upside down U-form the evacuation comprises the two wall parts 12 and the roof part 11. Other forms may be provided, horizontal straight roof part 11 and vertical wall parts 12, or even a more spherical design where the transition between wall parts and roof parts are more floating. Any other form may be provided within the inventive concept.

[0072] The evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure is provided with at least one tunnel module 10 configured for comprising and evacuation door 51 mounted in at least one of the wall parts 12. The evacuation door 51 is advantageously mounted on the wall part 12 facing towards the traffic. Sensors may be mounted to evacuation door 51 for example for detecting door status. Other sensor characteristics may be to detect temperature one any side of the door, monitoring image / movement / IR image / other of outside / inside evacuation tunnel environments. Sensors may be in communicating contact (wired / wireless) with a remote control device / service.

[0073] It is also provided an evacuation chamber inside the evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure wherein one or more of the tunnel modules 10 comprise one or two inside wall elements 50 in the longitudinal direction, and the inside wall elements 50 comprise an escape door 52 wherein the inside wall element 50 and the escape door 52 arranged in the inside wall element are configured to close off the tunnel module 10 above floor elements 24, 24' in the longitudinal direction, the floor elements 24, 24' being mounted on the corresponding base 20 area or base element 25.

[0074] The evacuation tunnel, according to present disclosure, consists primarily of two types of modules. The first is an evacuation chamber 60 that comprises evacuation doors 51 from the main tunnel and internal escape doors 52 that lead users to the next module. The evacuation chamber 60 is designed with technical components and has a more complex structure compared to the second module type, which functions as a simple transit module to guide the public further on the escape route out of the evacuation tunnel. The evacuation chamber 60 can be installed at the desired distance, possibly according to applicable requirements according to standards.

[0075] Figure 1, 2A-D and 3 shows the technical design of the module based on a crosssection, Figure 4 and 5 illustrates several interconnected modules, as well as a module that includes an escape door. In Figure 1 it is indicated that the modules can be made with a slight deviation angle 90 on the opening face on either or both longitudinal sides somewhat, which is achieved through a built-in angle of up to for example 5 degrees or more per module. This angle is included to compensate for any variations in the terrain. The tunnel modules 10 may advantageously be made uniform in that it is possible to arrange it in a longitudinal direction to an adjacent tunnel module 10. When the one side wall 12 is slightly shorter than the opposite side wall, the face angle may define a bend of the evacuation tunnel when the tunnel module 10 is mounted to its adjacent tunnel module 10. If the offset of the angled face surface of the tunnel module 10 is mirrored at each side, the evacuation tunnel will be straight if every second tunnel module 10 is arranged the same way, and every other tunnel module 10 is arranged the opposite way. ( V A V ) Figure 8A and 8B illustrates how straight and bending evacuation tunnel might be achieved by organizing the tunnel module 10 to accommodate a deviation from a straight line if needed.

[0076] The evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure concept may also be deployed as standalone emergency pockets and technical rooms, where the modules will be strategically placed for such purposes.

[0077] The evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure may, as described above, be prefabricated in two parts: a base profile with selectable lengths, and a U-profiled tunnel module 10 with a length of selectable length. The purpose of producing the bottom profile in more than one different length is to avoid overlapping joints and may be used to contribute to a more solid and collision-resistant construction. The profile thickness is adapted to its purpose, and may advantageous be in the range 50 - 200 mm for walls and roof, while the bottom profile may have a thickness in the range 75 - 300 mm. Other thickness may be provided. The relatively slim profiles are made possible by the use of ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) in the construction. A threshold-free transition from the roadway into the evacuation chamber 60 may be provided, so that no conflict will arise for wheelchair users.

[0078] The interior surface of the module may be provided as a smooth and pore-free surface.

[0079] The evacuation chamber of the evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure may be comprised of one or more tunnel modules comprising one or more evacuation doors 51 and at least two inside wall elements 50 with corresponding escape door 52 are configured as a pressurized evacuation chamber 60.

[0080] Air pressure pipes may be provided for maintaining air pressure in the evacuation chamber. Controlling devices 80 comprising sensors for securing door operation and air pressure may be provided for safe and efficient control of air quality and pressure.

[0081] The pressurized evacuation chamber may further comprise a ventilation system 53,54,55 for removing smoke and gas from the evacuation chamber 60. Such smoke evacuation may also be controlled by the controlling device 80. The fresh air pipes may be provided with one-way valves for outputting fresh air at arranged positions along the base 20. Typically, at least one one-way valve is arranged aligned with the above positioned evacuation chamber 60. The floor element 24' is permeable and will let fresh air be pushed from the fresh air pipe and one-way valve into the evacuation chamber 60. A further one-way valve may be arranged close to or in the roof 11 for letting air and smoke exit the evacuation chamber 60 when air from the fresh air pipe creates a positive pressure inside the evacuation chamber 60.

[0082] In one embodiment the pressurized evacuation chamber 60 the escape doors 52 will be kept locked by an installed door lock 59 until polluted air inside the pressurized evacuation chamber 60 is vented and the air quality is measured by a sensor and satisfy a pre-set quality level. The escape door lock 59 may be override by a manual onsite, or remote, override function.

[0083] Tunnel segments being sectioned by the installed escape doors 52 may be externally operated by a remote controller / service. Surveillance sensors and / or cameras may be arranged to monitor each such section, and if necessary, can damaged sections be blocked by locking adjacent escape doors 52 by a controller / controller service having access to the sensors and / or cameras). The controller / controller service may be located locally close to the tunnel, or remotely from a central command centre or the like. Users may be guided out into the tunnel 100 through appropriately arranged evacuation doors 51 pass the blocked section and back into the evacuation tunnel 200 through a conveniently arranged evacuation door when blocked section is passed.

[0084] The cables 31, pipes 33 and conduits 32 may be one or more of, but not limited to: power and / or signal cables, water supply, fresh air, exhaust air / smoke, and draining water.

[0085] The evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure consists of one or more of, but not limited to, the following safety equipment:

[0086] Evacuation chambers 60 with overpressure and fresh air supply every x meters.

[0087] Sensors 56 on some or all doors.

[0088] External quick-connect fire hose 57 at some or each evacuation chambers 60. Self-luminous, longitudinal railing 58 between each evacuation chambers 60. Illuminated entrance at each evacuation chambers 60.

[0089] External sprinkler system (not shown), which is controlled by sensors (not shown) for smoke and heat and covers the area between each evacuation chambers 60.

[0090] Internal lighting / emergency lighting.

[0091] Internal ventilation systems 32, 53, 55 ensures fresh air throughout the evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure.

[0092] Warning systems via radio and telephone, to inform and direct the public to safety.

[0093] Possibility of conducting water from external water supply in pipes with a diameter larger than 40mm, throughout the evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure, for effective and long-term extinguishing of vehicle fires and fires in electric car batteries.

[0094] The second aspect of this disclosure shows a method for establishing an evacuation tunnel in existing road / train tunnels, comprising the steps: arranging alongside a wall of a tunnel: a base 20 and a plurality of tunnel modules 10 according to any of the first aspect, to form an emergency escape tunnel 200 inside the tunnel 100.

[0095] The method may further comprise before arranging the base 20 and the plurality of tunnel modules 10: excavation of a longitudinal running space alongside one longitudinal side of the tunnel 100 in order to make space for the emergency escape tunnel 200.

[0096] The base 20 may be comprised of a plurality of base elements 25, and: the plurality of base elements 25 are arranged in the tunnel 100 prior to arranging the tunnel modules 10. The arranging of tunnel elements 10 are transported in place using a transporting device 40 for transporting a tunnel module 10, wherein the wheels 41 are running on the first parallel receiving surfaces 22, or the second parallel surfaces 23 of the base 20, or a flat surface.

[0097] The method may further comprise the steps: arranging one or more of cables 31, pipes 33 and conduits 32, in the one or more channels / recesses 21, 21' provided in the base 20.

[0098] The method may further comprise the steps: arranging a non-permeable floor element 24 above the channel / recess in one of the one or more channel / recesses 21 power and signal cables 31, for providing a fire-, water- and gas-proof environment.

[0099] The method may further comprise the steps: arranging floor elements 24, 24' on second parallel receiving surfaces 23, 23' of the base 20 for covering the channels 21, 21'.

[0100] In a further practical implementation of the concept according to present invention the base 20 may be laid throughout the tunnel 100, and adapted to the emergency pockets and other recesses that already exist in the tunnel. While this work is taking place, it can be assessed whether it is possible to set up traffic in for example a single lane and separate this from ongoing work with arranging bases 20 and tunnel modules 10, and installing cables 31, pipes 33 and conduits 32. When the bases 20 have been installed, the tunnel modules 10 will be transported into the tunnel on transporting device 40, which may use the second parallel receiving surfaces 23, or the first parallel receiving surfaces 22, of the base 20 as a "railway". These transporting devices 40 may be carriages comprising electric drive and lifting cylinders mounted onto the carriage for lifting the tunnel modules 10. The carriages may have a speed corresponding to fast walking. It may be advantageous that the tunnel modules 10 will be transported into the tunnel from both sides, to streamline the installation, and it is possible to install as many carriages as desired, which will drive in and out synchronised with the tunnel modules 10. If there is a need for backfilling between the tunnel modules 10 and the tunnel 100 wall, this can be carried out continuously during the installation.

[0101] As the tunnel modules 10 are assembled together, typically it is provided a sealing component for sealing all joints, the sealant advantageously being a fire-resistant sealant, thus achieving a completely water-gas and fire-resistant solution. When this has been carried out throughout the evacuation tunnel, the desired condition of the evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure has been achieved and further surface treatment should not be necessary. When the evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure has been fully assembled, technical installations of sprinkler systems, luminous railings, safety doors, etc. will remain. This work may be carried out while traffic is allowed in the sections not affected by the installation process. Pre-assembled connecting elements (not shown) may be cast into the elements of the evacuation tunnel, which will ensure quick, safe and accurate assembly.

[0102] Finally, internal technical installations will be in place and the same carriages may be used for transporting pipes, cables, etc. that will be installed inside the evacuation tunnel.

[0103] When this is carried out, it should initially be possible to have normal traffic in the tunnel.

[0104] It is possible to use much less material by producing the evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure of UHPC, Ultra High Performance Concrete. UHCP has qualities that far surpass traditional types of concrete, including that much less material is needed to create solid structures and the thickness of elements can often be halved, without this being at the expense of strength and lifespan.

[0105] UHPC has an almost pore-free surface, which does not require a membrane to be waterproof. In the environment that the evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure will be in, this is a great advantage. UHPC has been shown to have a significantly longer lifespan than traditional concrete, and in some cases, it has been documented that this can be 3 times as long. UHPC also has a significantly higher resistance to heat.

[0106] UHPC does not use traditional reinforcement, which means that it can be cast thinner and future challenges with regard to corrosion and peeling are avoided. The reinforcement used may be either glass fiber reinforcement or steel fiber reinforcement. This provides major environmental savings, and the production process may be faster and smoother. This in turn opens up for the possibility of casting thinner elements.

[0107] By using UHPC concrete for the evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure, it is possible to prefabricate elements in the factory and rationally transport them to the construction site, thereby also streamlining the assembly work in the tunnel.

[0108] The evacuation tunnel 200 according to present disclosure may be provided of recycled materials and environmentally friendly production methods to reduce the environmental impact. Although the materials discussed used in production of the evacuation tunnel and parts in present disclosure are focused on concrete of various compositions, or recycled material, it shall be understood that the various parts may be produced of any type of material fitting for the purpose of the evacuation tunnel. For example, fiber based materials such as as poly based fibre materials, Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP), or glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) composite materials or other.

[0109] The evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure solves the problems of present technology, for example reduces the risk of panic, injuries and in some cases death in emergency situations, and will help to provide the necessary security for pedestrians, cyclists, motorists and rescue teams. A short route to safety, good and visible safety information, a well-developed communication system that immediately communicates with motorists in the tunnel is provided and will contribute to both an increased sense of security, but also actually increase the level of safety in tunnels.

[0110] The evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure may comprise external selfextinguishing drainage channels being set into effect if there are liquid, and / or flammable liquids on the ground. Thereby the evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure may substantially increase the safety of people moving inside the tunnel in the event of an accident or (car) fire.

[0111] A sprinkler system may be mounted on the outside of the evacuation tunnel (inside the road tunnel) and may immediately start output water if smoke or heat is detected in the tunnel. This will offer limitation of damage and can even put out both flames and smoke in just a short time.

[0112] Luminous railings along the entire evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure will safely guide motorists to the nearest pressurized evacuation chamber 60. Once you have entered the pressurized evacuation chamber 60, you are safe and can calmly move out of the tunnel and into the open air.

[0113] The evacuation tunnel according to present disclosure is also intended for use by rescue personnel who have to enter a tunnel, which is, for example, filled with smoke or toxic gases. This allows you to approach the scene of the accident in a safe manner, without having to use breathing gas systems all the way into the accident site.

[0114] The person skilled in the art realizes that the present disclosure is not limited to the preferred embodiments described above. The person skilled in the art further realizes that modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

[0115] Additionally, variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by the skilled person in practicing the claimed disclosure, from a study of the drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims.

Claims

1. An evacuation tunnel system comprising: a plurality of tunnel modules (10), the tunnel module (10) comprising a roof part (11) and two wall parts (12), a base (20), and the tunnel modules (10) are configured to be arranged in a continuous line on top of the base (20) to form a tunnel with walls, roof and floor, the system is c h a r a c t e r i z e d b y : the base (20) comprises: one or more channels / recesses (21, 21') for holding one or more of cables (31), pipes (33) and conduits (32), and second parallel receiving surfaces (23, 23', 26, 26'), in the longitudinal direction, for receiving one or more floor elements (24, 24') covering the channels / recesses (21).

2. The evacuation tunnel system according to claim 1, wherein the base (20) further comprises: first parallel receiving surfaces (22), in the longitudinal direction, for receiving the bottom part of the wall parts (12) of the tunnel modules (10).

3. The evacuation tunnel system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein one of the one or more channel / recesses (21) for holding power and signal cables (31) comprise a non-permeable floor element (24), or floor element portion, arranged above the channel / recess for sealing the channel / recess off.

4. The evacuation tunnel system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the base (20) is provided from a plurality of base elements (25) arranged in a row.

5. The evacuation tunnel system according to any one of the previous claims, further comprising: a transporting device (40) for transporting a tunnel module (10), the transporting device (40) comprising at least one pair of wheels (41) configured to run on one of first parallel receiving surfaces (22), the second parallel (23, 26) surfaces of the base (20), or a flat surface.

6. The evacuation tunnel system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the tunnel module (10) has an upside down U-form comprising the two wall parts (12) and the roof part (11).

7. The evacuation tunnel system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein at least one tunnel module (10) is configured for having evacuation doors (51) mounted in at least one of the wall parts (12).

8. The evacuation tunnel system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein one or more of the tunnel modules (10) comprise one or two inside wall elements (50) in the longitudinal direction, and the inside wall elements (50) comprise an escape door (52) wherein the inside wall element (50) and the escape door (52) arranged in the inside wall element are configured to close off the tunnel module (10) above floor elements (24, 24') in the longitudinal direction, the floor elements (24, 24') being mounted on the corresponding base (20) area or base element (25).

9. The evacuation tunnel system according to claim 8, wherein one or more tunnel modules comprising one or more evacuation doors (51) and at least two inside wall elements (50) with corresponding escape door (52) are configured as a pressurized evacuation chamber (60).10.The evacuation tunnel system according to claim 9, wherein the pressurized evacuation chamber further comprises a ventilation system (53, 54, 55) for removing smoke and gas from the evacuation chamber (60).11.The evacuation tunnel system according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the cables, pipes and conduits carries one or more of: power and / or signal cables, water supply, fresh air, exhaust air / smoke, and draining water.

12. A method for establishing an evacuation tunnel in existing road / train tunnels, comprising the steps: arranging alongside a wall of a tunnel (100): a base (20) and a plurality of tunnel modules (10) according to any of claim 1 to 11, to form an emergency escape tunnel (200) inside the tunnel (100).13.The method according to claim 12, further comprising before arranging the base (20) and the plurality of tunnel modules (10): excavation of a longitudinal running space alongside one longitudinal side of the tunnel (100) in order to make space for the emergency escape tunnel (200).14.The method according to any of claim 12 or 13, wherein the base (20) is comprised of a plurality of base elements (25), and: the plurality of base elements (25) is arranged in the tunnel (100) prior to arranging the tunnel modules (10).15.The method according to any of claim 12 to 14, wherein the arranging of tunnel elements (10) are transported in place using a transporting device (40) for transporting a tunnel module (10), wherein the wheels (41) are running on first parallel receiving surfaces (22), or the second parallel surfaces (23) of the base (20), or a flat surface.16.The method according to any of claim 12 to 15, further comprising the steps: arranging one or more of cables (31), pipes (33) and conduits (32), in one or more channels / recesses (21, 21") provided in the base (20).17.The method according to any of claim 12 to 15, further comprising the steps: arranging a non-permeable floor element (24), or portion of the flloor element, above the channel / recess in one of the one or more channel / recesses (21) power and signal cables (31), for providing a fire-, water- and gas-proof environment.

18. The method according to any of claim 12 to 17, further comprising the steps: arranging floor elements (24, 24') on second parallel receiving surfaces (23, 23', 26, 26') of the base (20) for covering the channels (21).

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