TBM Operation Simulation Equipment for Operator Training

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current training methods for Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) operators rely heavily on theoretical education, lacking a practical simulation environment, which hinders the development of skilled operation engineers and their ability to handle unexpected site situations.

Innovation Solution

A TBM operation simulation equipment comprising a server and client units that simulate the construction environment, allowing trainees to practice equipment selection and operation, with a database-driven assessment module to compare performance against experienced operator standards.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If theoretical education is used for TBM operator training, then training can be provided, but practical operation capability cannot be developed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation capabilityVSAvoidtraining accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual simulation system that copies the actual TBM construction environment, allowing trainees to practice operations in a realistic virtual setting without needing access to actual TBM equipment. The system replicates the cutter head, support devices, and construction scenarios to provide hands-on training experience theoretically education alone cannot deliver.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Reliability

If actual TBM construction sites are used for training, then practical skills can be developed, but training accessibility becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperation capabilityVSAvoidtraining system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a communication unit as an intermediary between the virtual simulation system and trainees, enabling remote interaction and control. This mediator allows trainees to operate the simulated TBM system without physically being at a construction site, bridging the gap between theoretical education and practical experience while maintaining accessibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If virtual simulation environment is created, then training accessibility is improved, but realism of construction environment may be reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining accessibilityVSAvoidsimulation realism
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the TBM system into segmented components that can be independently simulated and controlled. The cutter head, support devices, and construction scenarios are broken down into manageable modules that can be individually configured and practiced. This segmentation allows the virtual system to maintain high realism while remaining accessible and controllable through standard communication interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS12106683B2Tunnel boring machine operation simulation equipment, and method for measuring operation capability of tunnel boring machine device using same
Publication Date: 2024.10.01 DOONA INFORMATION&TECH CO LTD
  • US12106683B2 patent drawing
  • US12106683B2 patent drawing
  • US12106683B2 patent drawing

AI summary

According to the present invention, a tunnel boring machine (TBM) operation simulation equipment includes: a server in which education information a is stored; and an instruction client unit. According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the TBM operation capability of TBM drivers and trainees by providing a TBM simulation environment in which the construction environment is realistically simulated.