Apparatus for forming an underground tunnel
US9631491B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignees
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 17, 2008 |
| Grant date | Apr 25, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 1, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21D23/088
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
The present disclosure provides an apparatus for forming an underground tunnel. The apparatus comprises a cutting head for removing material from a wall portion of the tunnel and thereby forming a portion of the tunnel. Further, the apparatus comprises a support structure for supporting a previously formed portion of the tunnel. The support structure is arranged to provide a supporting force against a surface of the tunnel when stationary and when being moved along the tunnel. Further, the apparatus comprises a conveyor for conveying removed material from the cutting head to a location remote from the cutting head during formation of the portion of the tunnel.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.