Computer technology in tunnel design

Thomas, A.H., Bennett, E.C., MacDonald, M. and Clayton, C.R.I. (2002) Computer technology in tunnel design. Tunnels & Tunnelling, 34 (6), 42-43.

Record type: Article

Abstract

This article presents a discussion of the current status of the use of computers in the design of tunnels. Numerical models to describe and predict ground and tunneling conditions come in a variety of commercial packages, specializing in continuous ground conditions, where the formation is one type of material, and discontinuous, where it is made up of more than one discrete type of formation. Computer applications have also been developed to measure the amount of safety features needed to ensure safe use of tunnels during fires and other emergencies, as well as the speed at which vehicles can safely inside them without creating dangerous transient pressures. Computers also support risk management practices by carrying out large volumes of analyses of "routine" events to show how rapidly a condition could become dangerous is certain variables were altered. While progress has been made, the software's predictions and findings must be calibrated against actual knowledge.

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