TBM Geological Detection System Using Multi-Modal Sensing

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Tunnel boring machines face challenges in detecting unfavorable geological conditions such as faults, fractured rock masses, and underground water due to limited observation space, complex electromagnetic environments, and short detection times, which increases the risk of accidents and equipment damage.

Innovation Solution

A comprehensive advanced geological detection system integrated with a multifunctional combination main frame, including induced polarization, seismic wave, and borehole ground penetrating radar detection devices, controlled by a comprehensive interpretation and decision system, allowing for quasi-synchronous detection and remote monitoring to improve detection efficiency and accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a tunnel boring machine is used for construction, then high boring speed and construction safety are achieved, but the adaptability to complex geological conditions deteriorates due to limited observation space and short detection time

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveboring speedVSAvoidadaptability to geological conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple detection devices (seismic wave detection device, induced polarization detection device, and ground penetrating radar detection device) into an integrated detection system mounted on the tunnel boring machine. This merging of multiple detection methods allows comprehensive geological detection within the limited space and time constraints, improving adaptability while maintaining high boring speed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The detection system is designed with multi-functional capabilities to detect various geological conditions including water-rich zones, fractured rock masses, and faults using different physical principles (seismic waves, induced polarization, and radar). This universal detection capability enables the system to adapt to diverse geological conditions without compromising construction productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Measurement precision

If multiple detection devices are installed on the tunnel boring machine, then detection comprehensiveness is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection comprehensivenessVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The complex detection system is segmented into three independent but coordinated detection devices: seismic wave detection device, induced polarization detection device, and ground penetrating radar detection device. Each device operates independently with its own excitation and receiving systems, allowing comprehensive detection while managing system complexity through modular segmentation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a nested structure where multiple detection devices are integrated within the tunnel boring machine's existing structure. The detection devices are mounted on the cutter head or machine body, nesting them within the constrained space of the tunnel boring machine while maintaining their individual functional integrity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

3Loss of time

If the cutter head retreats for overhauling, then a unique opportunity for advanced geological prediction is provided, but the detection time remains relatively short

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection timeVSAvoidprediction accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The detection system performs geological detection continuously during the cutter head's retreat for overhauling. By utilizing this brief period effectively with automated multi-device detection, the system maximizes the use of available detection time while maintaining prediction accuracy through continuous data acquisition from multiple sensing modalities

Inventive Principle:
Principle #20Continuity of useful action

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

The system enhances the efficiency and accuracy of geological detection, reduces detection time, and enables remote monitoring and decision-making, thereby improving tunnel boring machine operations and ensuring safety by providing comprehensive and accurate predictions of geological conditions.

Implementation Method 1

an induced polarization detection device (5) and a seismic wave detection device (59) on the cutter head (7)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInduced polarization: Electrostatic Induction

Implementation Method 2

a seismic wave detection device (59) on the cutter head (7)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSeismic wave propagation: Vibration

Implementation Method 3

an oblique borehole ground penetrating radar detection device (3) at the upper part of the tunnel boring machine (68)

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic wave propagation: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS9500077B2Comprehensive advanced geological detection system carried on tunnel boring machine
Publication Date: 2016.11.22 SHANDONG UNIV
  • US9500077B2 patent drawing
  • US9500077B2 patent drawing
  • US9500077B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention presents a comprehensive advanced geological detection system carried on a tunnel boring machine. The comprehensive advanced geological detection system includes a multifunctional combination main frame, an induced polarization detection device, a seismic wave detection device, an integrated junction device, a borehole ground penetrating radar detection device and a comprehensive interpretation and decision system; the multifunctional combination main frame includes a time division multiplexing control module, an excitation source control module and a parallel data acquisition module; the excitation source control module outputs trigger signals to the three detection devices respectively, and the three detection devices respectively output measurement data and feedback signals to the time division multiplexing control module through the parallel data acquisition module; and the comprehensive interpretation and decision system supports geological interpretations and decisions through the inversion/migration imaging joint inversion of three detection methods.