Numerical Simulation of Mechanized Tunnelling as Part of an Integrated Optimization Platform for Tunnelling Design

Mechanised tunnelling is characterised by a number of interacting components relevant for the excavation process (the soil including groundwater, the TBM, the linings, the support at the cutting face and the tail void) and by a staged process of excavation and lining erection. This imposes a considerable challenge for realistic modelling of the tunnelling process. The paper addresses recent advances in computational modelling of shield tunnelling. It is shown, how a three-dimensional finite element model, which is able to adequately represent the aforementioned components and their interactions, may be used for reliable predictions of the interactions between the excavation process and the soil within the design stage as well as in the construction stage. The paper also highlights the role of numerical simulations in the context of an integrated optimization Platform for Tunnelling (IOPT) currently being developed within the European research project “Technology Innovation in Underground Construction” (TUNCONSTRUCT). Since for more or less similar ground conditions different designs are often used and the selection of construction methods is often biased by personal experience, this platform shall finally constitute a decision support system providing a systematic guidance through the complete process of the design of machine-driven tunnels.