Hazama Ando has developed a system to detect impacts of rock masses protruding from inside the tunnel that occur at the tunnel face during mountain tunneling. Using LiDAR, a laser target shape detection technology, the measurement situation and the designed excavation cross-section are compared to automatically calculate the location and extent of damage. Relocation work that previously required two people can now be done by one heavy equipment operator. Improve work safety and productivity by saving labor.
Collision detection system (from press release materials)
The "collision detection system" uses lidar to quickly measure a three-dimensional point cloud on the outer surface of the excavation face, detect collision points in about one to two minutes, and display them. The lidar is mounted on top of the cutter and works in conjunction with the underground survey system (switchboard) installed behind the face to obtain position information from the lidar itself. By comparing the 3D point cloud with self-locating position information and the design excavation cross-section, collision points and quantities are calculated.
Equipment installation status (from press release documents)
During the calculation, the measured outer circumference surface is divided into meshes and it is determined whether each mesh requires collision. The mower operator can check the judgment results on the screen in the driver's seat. This eliminates the need for workers to visually inspect close to the face, allowing one person to perform construction safely. Compared with previous technology, it also improves workability by attaching the complete system to the cutter. The company verified its effectiveness at a construction site.
When digging tunnels in mountains by blasting, the surface after blasting will appear uneven. During the removal process, workers entered the area immediately after excavation to visually inspect the area and risk peeling skin. Since ambient conditions depend on the worker's judgment, there are times when they cannot be properly eliminated. Ando Hazama is developing the ``Mountain Tunnel Integrated Excavation Management System (i-NATM)'' to significantly increase the productivity of mountain tunnel construction. In the future, we will endeavor to expand the application of the collision detection system.
