Sliding Form Tunnel Lining for Fast Continuous Tunnel Renewal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tunnel lining methods are slow, inefficient, and unsuitable for rapid replacement of existing linings, especially in operational tunnels, due to separate operations and unsatisfactory results, leading to long execution times and structural issues.
Innovation Solution
A processing train with a sliding form and spouts for dispensing solidifiable fluid material along the tunnel walls, advancing stepwise to allow solidification and forming continuous linings, incorporating reinforcement as needed, using a system for automated and efficient construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional separate operations are used for tunnel resurfacing, then each operation can be performed with simple equipment, but the execution speed is very slow (1-5 meters per day)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate operations (demolition, waterproofing, reinforcement installation, and lining construction) into a single integrated processing train that moves continuously through the tunnel. This merging of operations allows simultaneous execution of multiple tasks, increasing execution speed from 1-5 meters per day to potentially much faster rates while managing complexity through systematic integration.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing train is designed as a multi-functional system that performs demolition, waterproofing, reinforcement placement, and lining construction within a single mobile unit. This universal design allows the same equipment to execute multiple operations sequentially or simultaneously, improving productivity without requiring separate specialized equipment for each operation.
2Productivity
If reinforcements are assembled for the entire tunnel length, then the lining can be constructed continuously, but a large quantity of reinforcements is needed and assembly/disassembly time is considerable
Solution Approach 1:
The processing train divides the tunnel lining construction into sequential segments, assembling and constructing lining in manageable sections as the train moves through the tunnel. This segmentation allows reinforcements to be installed only for the current working section rather than the entire tunnel length, reducing total reinforcement quantity and assembly time while maintaining continuous construction progress.
Solution Approach 2:
The processing train performs preliminary preparation of each tunnel section (demolition, waterproofing, reinforcement installation) before the lining construction begins in that section. This preliminary action ensures that each segment is fully prepared in advance, allowing continuous lining construction without interruptions for setup or preparation during the actual pouring and curing process.
3Loss of time
If dual-component solidifiable fluid products are sprayed onto tunnel walls, then near immediate solidification is achieved, but the surface finish is poor and finishing operations are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The processing train introduces an intermediary sliding form between the sprayed solidifiable material and the final lining surface. This form acts as a mediator that receives the quickly-setting material and transfers it to create a smooth, high-quality finished surface, eliminating the need for separate finishing operations while maintaining rapid solidification benefits.
4Ease of manufacture
If concrete is introduced from the front end of a form, then the form can be reused, but the operation slows down and results are often unsatisfactory
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of introducing concrete from the front end of the form as in conventional methods, the processing train inverts this approach by introducing the solidifiable fluid material from the rear or sides of the sliding form. This inversion allows the form to move forward continuously while material is deposited behind it, dramatically increasing construction speed and improving surface quality while maintaining form reusability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables fast, automated, and structurally robust tunnel lining with reduced downtime, eliminating construction joints and ensuring continuous waterproofing, achieving high-quality and durable results.
Implementation Method 1
dispensing a solidifiable fluid material around a radially external front segment of the sliding form... allowing it to solidify
Data Source
AI summary
A processing train configured to run along a tunnel to lay a solidifiable fluid material on a wall of the tunnel and allow the solidifiable fluid material to solidify for construction of a lining of the tunnel, an advancement system for advancing the sliding form, a closing edge for closing a space between a front edge of the sliding form and the wall of the tunnel, and spouts for dispensing the solidifiable fluid material around a front segment of the sliding form. A method for constructing a lining of a tunnel with the solidifiable fluid material involves, defining an interspace between the front segment of the sliding form and the wall of the tunnel, introducing the solidifiable fluid material into the interspace and, after hardening time, advancing the sliding form to form a new interspace and successive lining sections.