Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) Attitude Control

Shield tunneling is the primary method for subway tunnel construction, and the precise control of the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) attitude is directly related to the quality of tunnel construction. The ApeSurvey Software innovatively addresses the challenge of directly observing TBM reference points. By observing the coordinates of multiple prisms on the TBM body, the software can calculate the TBM's attitude in real time.

Before construction, technicians input the coordinates of the prisms and the TBM reference points (such as the center points of the shield head and tail) into the system. During the tunneling process, the software continuously observes the real-time coordinates of the prisms and, using complex coordinate transformation algorithms, accurately calculates the position of the TBM reference points. By comparing the calculated results with the design values, the software provides operators with precise deviation data, guiding the TBM to tunnel along the designed axis.

This feature greatly enhances the precision and efficiency of shield tunneling, ensuring that the quality of the tunnel construction consistently meets stringent engineering standards.

Center Fitting Accuracy Control

In subway construction, the installation accuracy of the tunnel portal steel rings and shield segments directly affects the structural strength and waterproofing performance of the tunnel. The center fitting feature of the ApeSurvey Software provides critical support for this key process.

The software allows engineers to measure multiple coordinate points along the circumference of the steel rings or segments. Through complex least-squares fitting calculations, the software quickly determines the fitted center coordinates and radius. By comparing these values with the design specifications, the construction team can immediately identify installation deviations and make timely adjustments.

This feature not only improves installation efficiency but also ensures that each ring segment is positioned precisely, laying a solid foundation for the long-term safe operation of the subway tunnel.

Subway Segment Attitude Measurement

The installation accuracy of tunnel segments is crucial to the overall performance of the tunnel. The ApeSurvey Software has innovatively combined traditional surveying tools with modern technology to develop a highly efficient and precise method for segment attitude measurement.

This method utilizes a 3.8-meter-long aluminum alloy ruler with a reflective sticker attached at its center. Based on the tunnel segment's inner diameter (usually 2.7 meters), the ruler length, and the position of the reflective sticker, the software establishes an accurate computational model.

During the measurement process, technicians first use a level to ensure the aluminum ruler is horizontal, then a total station is used to measure the three-dimensional coordinates of the reflective sticker. The ApeSurvey Software performs complex calculations to accurately determine the three-dimensional coordinates of the actual center of the tunnel segment.

This innovative measurement method not only enhances accuracy but also significantly speeds up the measurement process, allowing engineers to quickly verify and adjust the installation position of each segment. This ensures the integrity and stability of the tunnel structure throughout construction.

Beijing Subway New Line Construction Project

Challenges: Constructing a new subway line in a complex urban underground environment requires highly accurate measurements. Solution: The use of the ApeSurvey Software's segment attitude, center fitting, and TBM attitude control functions.

Outcome: The construction accuracy of the tunnel improved to millimeter-level precision, ensuring perfect alignment with the existing subway lines. Measurement efficiency increased by 180%, accelerating the construction progress.
Project Manager's Evaluation: "ApeSurvey Software played a key role in our subway construction project. It not only improved our work efficiency and precision but also provided unprecedented data insights, enabling us to better manage project risks and quality."