Tunnel Boring Machine Backup Train Arch Segment Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current trailer designs for backup trains in tunnel boring machines compromise operator safety and logistical efficiency due to the need for large passages for Multiservice Vehicles, which intrude on space for operating modules and create safety hazards by requiring operators to share circulation routes.
Innovation Solution
A trailer design featuring rolling means and a chassis with conveying means, such as double rails or conveyor systems, to transport arch segments within the trailer, allowing for dedicated operator corridors and reducing the need for Multiservice Vehicles, thereby enhancing safety and logistical efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a passage is provided in the lower portion of the trailers to allow circulation of Multiservice Vehicles for conveying arch segments, then the transport function is improved, but the general bulk of the trailer increases and space for operating modules is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces conveying means (rails or conveyor belts) in the lower portion of the trailer to transport arch segments horizontally along the trailer length. This dimensional approach allows arch segment transport without requiring vertical clearance for Multiservice Vehicles, thereby maintaining trailer bulk while improving transport capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The trailer is divided into functional zones: the lower portion contains conveying means for arch segment transport, while the upper portion accommodates operating modules. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each function without compromising the other, resolving the conflict between transport capability and trailer bulk.
2Reliability
If corridors are provided for operator circulation and maintenance operations, then safety and operational accessibility are improved, but space for operating modules is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions corridors for operator circulation in the upper portion of the trailer, above the conveying means. This vertical dimensionality separation allows safe operator movement without compromising the space available for operating modules in the upper portion, thereby improving safety while maintaining functional space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the arch segment transport function from the general circulation space by providing dedicated conveying means in the lower portion. This extraction allows operator corridors to be established in the upper portion without interference, improving safety while preserving space for operating modules.
3Productivity
If operators and Multiservice Vehicles share the same circulation route, then logistical efficiency is improved, but safety risks increase due to joint activity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the trailer into two distinct circulation zones: the lower portion for arch segment transport via conveying means, and the upper portion for operator circulation. This spatial segmentation eliminates joint activity between operators and Multiservice Vehicles, improving safety while maintaining logistical efficiency through dedicated transport paths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces conveying means as an intermediary system that handles arch segment transport independently of operator movement. This intermediary mechanism allows efficient arch segment conveyance without requiring operators to share circulation routes, thereby improving safety while maintaining logistical efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A trailer of a backup train of a tunnel boring machine includes a rolling means configured to allow movement of the trailer on a circulation route, a chassis including a lower portion including the rolling means and an upper portion, opposite to the rolling means, conveying means, fixed in the lower portion of the chassis, the conveying means being configured to move at least one support along the trailer, the support being configured to transport at least one arch segment along the chassis.