TUNNEL GUIDANCE

The applications of low powered laser beams as a construction alignment aid are briefly described. One of the advantages of using the laser beam is that it allows mining equipment operators to see and be guided by the spot on the target. Also, the operator does not become involved in computations and can concentrate on the positioning of the machine by visual means. The use of low powered laser beams on the front and rear end of the mole or shield is described. Future research in new guidance techniques using a combination of gyro, computer, and laser equipment should be developed. There is a need for improving the feedback mechanisms with which a tunneling machine can be steered automatically without the participation of the operator. Electrical or electronic devices capable of transmitting and displaying tunnel alignment information should also be developed.

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  • Supplemental Notes:
    • This article appeared in TRB Special Report No. 171, Tunnel Construction: State of the Art and Research Needs. Distribution, posting, or copying of this PDF is strictly prohibited without written permission of the Transportation Research Board of the National Academy of Sciences. Unless otherwise indicated, all materials in this PDF are copyrighted by the National Academy of Sciences. Copyright © National Academy of Sciences. All rights reserved
  • Corporate Authors:

    Transportation Research Board

    500 Fifth Street, NW
    Washington, DC  United States  20001
  • Authors:
    • Colson, George
  • Publication Date: 1977

Media Info

  • Media Type: Print
  • Pagination: p 23
  • Monograph Title: TUNNEL CONSTRUCTION: STATE OF THE ART AND RESEARCH NEEDS
  • Serial:

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Filing Info

  • Accession Number: 00156041
  • Record Type: Publication
  • Files: TRIS, TRB, ATRI
  • Created Date: Oct 13 1977 12:00AM