In terms of automated production and level of digitalization, the tunnel construction industry is still significantly behind other industries. Nevertheless, the megatrends like big data or the internet of things (IoT) offer great opportunities for the future development of the tunnel construction sector.
A solution to achieve successful tunnel construction 4.0 is to create a digital twin of a tunnel construction site. A German start-up company offers a software solution that aims to accelerate construction by improving the information flow. This tunnel solution is a digital twin of a tunnel construction system across its lifecycle, using real-time data to enable understanding, learning and reasoning. CIM (Construction/Civil information modeling) enables architects and planners to come together and work on a set of 3D models. This in return, creates an interactive project which promotes real-time collaboration. When the architects and engineers are collaborating, planning and sharing the information of the project, they are effectively employing CIM. Through the use of CIM, projects of any scale can be constructed, this could be something as small as an tunnel cross passage to a full-fledged urban metro tunnel.
The software is based on game engine for managing and controlling technically the tunnel construction process specifically with a tunnel boring machine. The smart cloud-based management system makes it possible to visualise and analyse the process and data on 5D format. All data generated will be stopped in here with full security designed by the German company's experienced development team. The system will improve the whole construction process, delivering faster builds to a higher quality with fewer defects and more sustainable tunnels.
Partners from tunnel construction or construction service providers are sought for commercial agreements with technical assistance. The partners would implement the solution or integrate it in their portfolio with the help of the German company. The German company would provide the relevant know-how and assist with installation.
Research cooperation agreements are also of interest. The company would offer to contribute their expertise and know-how in research projects on construction topics.
Advantages & innovations
With a focus on reducing cost and waste, and increasing productivity, this system can improve the tunnel construction process at every stage, delivering faster builds to a higher quality with fewer defects.
Compared to conventional methods, a better analysis of data in 3D view and in real time is possible
The security of data has highest priority. A cloud solution can be hosted at the user's premises on their server.
Even though the company is young, the founders have many years of experience in the relevant technological areas.
Stage of development
Already on the market
Partner sought
The German company is looking for partners for commercial agreements with technical assistance:
The company offers the solution to tunnel construction companies who would like to implement the solution in their activities, be it planning or monitoring. Partners could also be service providers for the construction industry who would like to extend their portfolio and offer comprehensive digital services. The German company would transfer the necessary know-how and offer related advice and consultancy. The German company would furthermore assist with first project implementations.
There is also an interest to join research consortia working on topics where the German company could contribute their respective expert know-how within research cooperation agreements.