Optimised microtunnelling navigation 12 Mar 2020

A new microtunnelling navigation platform from Herrenknecht subsidiary VMT, combines all conventional machine guidance navigation systems with laser and target, hydrostatic level gyroscope and moving laser total station techniques in one product line. The TUnIS Navigation system makes it possible to switch between modes for short gentle curves, gradient-sensitive drives and extreme curves, as well as for small diameters, long distances and curved drives.

Ability to switch between different modes

A simple change between individual navigation modes enables the system to adapt to meet individual project requirements and it can also switch to segmental tunnelling.

"With the SLS-Microtunnelling and UNS (Universal Navigation System) product series, we have guided precise and reliable navigation of microtunnelling drives of all kinds for years," said Jürgen Göckel, Business Developer Microtunnelling at VMT. “After two years of development work, we have now combined these two navigation technologies on the standard TUnIS Navigation MT system platform. In addition to our own experience of the past years, the navigation solution also incorporates valuable feedback and a variety of client and user-requested features."

The hardware concept has also undergone further development and the TUnIS Navigation MT is completely future-ready. As an open system, it can easily integrate all new and further developments in the microtunnelling business.

TUnIS Navigation measuring tool

In a first step, TUnIS Navigation MT has been introduced in the Herrenknecht tunnelling systems from January 2020, replacing the previous UNS gyro navigation system. From mid-2020 onwards, the associated stand-alone version based on the new MTconnect optimised hardware platform will also be available, replacing the SLS microtunnelling product series. With the integration of the moving laser total station, the scope of services is then complete.

VMT solutions helps to build tunnels and shafts of all sizes for increasingly complex infrastructure projects: The navigation systems for tunnelling machines, the production and logistics management system for segment production, and system solutions for safety, information and monitoring take on key functions. The individual modules can be combined to form efficient, modern network solutions that guarantee optimal process and seamless quality assurance for tunnel projects.