Method and apparatus for forming tunnels and tunnels formed thereby
US9702094B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 24, 2014 |
| Grant date | Jul 11, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 24, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21D9/04
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A method of forming tunnels(6), and tunnels formed thereby, said tunnels in one embodiment being of a form to carry transport routes (1) such as rail and road transport therealong. The method allows the tunnel to be formed from one or more access points (2) by allowing the tunnel structure (6) to be progressively extended out from the tunnel by advancing deck structures (24) along guide means (20) which are formed as part of a base structure (18). The deck structures (24) can also be used to support excavation equipment (28) and/or act as transport routes for access to the leading edge of the tunnel as it is formed. This greatly reduces the need for separate access and works to be provided adjacent to the tunnel as it is formed and therefore reduces the level of reinstatement works required after the tunnel has been formed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.