EP0197021B1 - Method for driving a tunnel - Google Patents

Method for driving a tunnel Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0197021B1
EP0197021B1 EP19860870032 EP86870032A EP0197021B1 EP 0197021 B1 EP0197021 B1 EP 0197021B1 EP 19860870032 EP19860870032 EP 19860870032 EP 86870032 A EP86870032 A EP 86870032A EP 0197021 B1 EP0197021 B1 EP 0197021B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
tunnel
shells
vertical
reinforced concrete
successive
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Expired
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EP19860870032
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0197021A1 (en
Inventor
Paul Hemberg
Bonfils Koeckelberg
Heri Stassens
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Sa Entreprises Koeckelberg
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Sa Entreprises Koeckelberg
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Publication of EP0197021A1 publication Critical patent/EP0197021A1/en
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    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E02—HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING; FOUNDATIONS; SOIL SHIFTING
    • E02D—FOUNDATIONS; EXCAVATIONS; EMBANKMENTS; UNDERGROUND OR UNDERWATER STRUCTURES
    • E02D29/00—Independent underground or underwater structures; Retaining walls
    • E02D29/045—Underground structures, e.g. tunnels or galleries, built in the open air or by methods involving disturbance of the ground surface all along the location line; Methods of making them
    • E02D29/05—Underground structures, e.g. tunnels or galleries, built in the open air or by methods involving disturbance of the ground surface all along the location line; Methods of making them at least part of the cross-section being constructed in an open excavation or from the ground surface, e.g. assembled in a trench

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a method for making a tunnel by means of prefabricated concrete elements, joined together on site by concreting.
  • the tunnels are produced either by pouring successive tunnel sections in place, or by aligning prefabricated tunnel sections.
  • the tunneling process which consists of aligning prefabricated tunnel sections allows the length of the site to be reduced.
  • the prefabricated sections are placed, the backfilling and finishing work can be carried out.
  • the process according to the present invention in fact calls upon a certain number of standardized prefabricated elements, of relatively reduced weight (approximately 10 tonnes), the handling of which requires only more mobile lifting devices, of the type commonly used on most construction sites.
  • These lifting devices can be automobile cranes, which do not need to be mounted on rails.
  • the use of standardized prefabricated elements allows the process of the invention to make either small section tunnels or larger section tunnels, for example for large gauge metro, underground railway, etc., by juxtaposing a greater or lesser number of these standardized elements.
  • the method according to the invention makes it possible to vary the section of the tunnels, which can thus pass from a minimum section (for a single tunnel section of line) to a maximum section (sections of tunnel comprising stations, with landing platforms, waiting rooms, etc.) passing through intermediate sections.
  • the subject of the present invention is a method for making a tunnel using precast concrete elements, which are joined together by concreting, after placement.
  • the successive phases of realization of the tunnel are executed in order along the site, from the advancement front where the earthworks and the front excavation of the excavation are done to the area where the backfilling and the covering of the completed tunnel are done.
  • the vertical elements partially constituting the side walls of the tunnel are oblong reinforced concrete shells having a cylindrical arch whose generatrix is parallel to the major axis of the shells; these shells are closed at each of their ends by a half-moon base, perpendicular to their long axis.
  • These shells are arranged in such a way that their concavity is directed towards the interior of the tunnel, and that their vault is directed towards the walls of the trench.
  • the shells have two flat and parallel longitudinal sides extending the arch on each side thereof.
  • An advantageous embodiment of these elements has, on the outside of the vault, a substantially planar rear face which is connected perpendicular to the lateral faces of the element, which are also substantially planar.
  • the shells have on the outer faces of the longitudinal sides two grooves parallel to the major axis of the shells, capable of receiving the lateral edges of the two formwork plates.
  • the grooves located near the free edge of the plane longitudinal sides of the hulls, and therefore located on the inside of the tunnel are widened at their upper part, so as to constitute close to the level which the edge will occupy. upper of the plate in place, shoulders on which the end of a lintel sits.
  • the reinforced concrete footings as well as the connecting footings ensuring continuity between them are provided, on their upper bearing face, with a rebate parallel to the axis of the tunnel and directed towards the interior of the tunnel.
  • the assembly of a beam, of the two reinforced concrete columns which support each of the ends of this beam and the footings supporting each of these reinforced concrete columns, forms a gantry capable of taking up the vertical pressures exerted by the earth and the roads. higher, as well as the horizontal earth pressure.
  • the method according to the invention has a number of advantages.
  • the arch shape of the hulls preferably used offers the advantage of taking up the horizontal loads of pushing the earth after backfilling behind the side walls of the tunnel with relatively thin partitions and not requiring additional reinforcements.
  • the hulls can be prefabricated in molds specially made for this purpose but, for small series, it is more economical to use molds of standardized shape, generally of rectangular section.
  • the face turned towards the outside of the tunnel is practically planar and is connected perpendicular to the lateral faces, which are also practically planar.
  • Such an embodiment coincides with the form of standard molds.
  • the number of prefabricated elements used being reduced (indeed, it mainly comprises only the footings, vertical elements forming the vertical walls, lintels, upper beams and slabs), the installation of these is a series of repeated operations, which promotes speed of execution.
  • the construction of a heavy-type metro tunnel can progress at the rate of approximately 3 running meters per day.
  • the disturbance caused to residents is therefore minimal, thanks to the speed of execution and therefore thanks to the mobility of the site.
  • the site is all the more mobile as the site facilities are reduced, thanks in particular to the manufacture of a maximum of elements off the site (prefabrication in the factory).
  • the process according to the invention also lends itself to the construction of tunnels in an aquiferous environment, thanks to the arrangement of the hulls, which will thus serve as a passage for sheets as will be described below. It is indeed important in the case of aquifers, not to oppose the movements of groundwater.
  • the process allows to marry the various unevennesses of the ground as well as the changes of direction imposed by the layout, while using the majority of the prefabricated elements above.
  • the method also lends itself to the production of tunnels of various widths, for example, narrow in a straight line, wide at the station, passing through intermediate sections connecting the narrow sections and the wide sections. As will be described below, these different widths are produced with the available prefabricated elements already described.
  • the process according to the invention makes it possible to combine the structural work and the finishing touches; in particular inside the stations one can take advantage of the shape of the hulls.
  • the dimensions of these shells can vary between relatively wide limits, but according to a particular and advantageous embodiment of the invention, the width of these shells is between 2 and 3 meters.
  • the walls of the stations present species of niches, which can be fitted out, as required, for example, by installing telephone booths, automatic distributors, benches, etc.
  • the benches can advantageously be continuous or interrupted ribs cast in the mass during the manufacture in the factory of the shells.
  • the shells forming the walls of the tunnel between the stations can be arranged to receive electrical devices such as junction boxes, lighting, signaling devices, etc.
  • the particular configuration of the walls can also be used advantageously acoustically. Indeed, sounds are picked up by the surface of the walls, which considerably lowers the acoustic level and thus improves the comfort of tunnel users, especially passengers waiting at stations.
  • Fig. 1 shows all the phases for the realization of a tunnel according to the method of the invention.
  • prefabricated reinforced concrete footings 1 of generally rectangular shape, the upper face 2 of which has a rebate 3, are deposited on the bottom of the trench, leaving a space between the successive soles 1.
  • Each sole is arranged so as to be perpendicular to the vertical walls of the tunnel to be constructed, so that. the rebate 3 is directed towards the interior of the tunnel.
  • each connecting flange 4 also has on its upper face 6 a rebate 7 connecting the rebates 3 of two successive flanges 1.
  • Oblong reinforced concrete shells 8 having a cylindrical vault 9 whose generator is parallel to their major axis, two plane longitudinal sides 10 extending this vault 9 on each side, and closed by a base 11 in a half-moon at each of their ends , are arranged on each continuous base 5, so as to provide an interval between successive shells 8, and so that their vault 9 is directed towards the wall of the trench and, consequently, that their concavity is directed towards the interior of the tunnel.
  • the shells 8 are placed in such a way that each shell 8 is supported both on two successive flanges 1 and therefore that the interval between two successive shells is located in line with a sole 1.
  • the shells 8 are placed by means of a positioning mannequin carrying a pair of shells 8, so as to simultaneously place two shells. on each side of the tunnel, one to the right of the other.
  • the interval between two successive shells 8 is closed, on the side of the wall of the trench, by an exterior formwork plate 12 and, on the interior side of the tunnel, by an interior formwork plate 13.
  • the two formwork plates 12.13 are spaced apart and are arranged parallel to the axis of the tunnel.
  • the formwork plates 12, 13 are, for example, made of asbestos-cement and delimit, with the external faces 14 of the sides 10 facing two successive shells 8, a vertical space between two successive shells 8. In this vertical space is inserted a concrete reinforcement 15.
  • the external formwork plates 12 have substantially the same height as the vertical elements 8.
  • the internal formwork plates 13 are significantly lower.
  • Transverse upper beams 17 are then placed perpendicular to the axis of the tunnel, so as to rest at each of their ends on lintels 16 facing each other. The transverse upper beams.
  • each slab 18 is supported by its front edge on a transverse upper beam 17, and by its trailing edge on the following transverse upper beam 17, relative to the direction of progress of the site, and also so that the lower surface of the slabs 18 is at the same level as the lower surface of the bases 11 in upper half-moon of the shells 8, so as to present therewith a continuous surface which can be left bare and constitute the ceiling of the tunnel, between the upper transverse beams 17.
  • the bases 11 in a half-moon have a thickness (approximately 14 cm) greater than that of the slabs 18 (approximately 5 cm) and exceed consequently above the upper surface of the slabs 18.
  • the edge of the bases 11 in the upper half-moon advantageously constitutes with the upper edge of the external formwork plates 12 a lateral formwork for pouring the upper slab 19.
  • a slab 21 is then poured between the two continuous bases 5 formed by the flanges 1 and the connecting flanges 4, cast therebetween, so as to cover the rebates 3 and 7.
  • This slab 21 will support gutters 22 intended for passage cables, pipes, etc., as well as the track infrastructure, for example the ballast 23 of a railway 24.
  • the tunnel Before the final backfilling, the tunnel is plugged in order to seal it.
  • Fig. 2 is a view, on a large scale, of three successive shells 8, showing the external 12 and internal 13 formwork plates and the lintels 16 on which the upper transverse beams 17 are supported before joining with the reinforced concrete columns 20 poured into the intervals between the successive shells 8.
  • the shells 8 have, on the external faces 14 of the plane and parallel longitudinal sides 10 of the shells 8, two grooves 25, 26 parallel to the major axis thereof; the grooves 25 located on the side of the wall of the trench on two sides.
  • external 14 facing two successive shells 8 receive and guide the lateral edges of an external formwork plate 12.
  • This external formwork plate 12 constitutes the connection between two successive shells 8, on the external side of the tunnel, and thus ensures the continuity of the outer side wall of the tunnel.
  • the plates 12 have substantially the same length as the shells 8 and their small upper edge arrives at substantially the same height as the upper surface of the base 11 in the half-moon shape of the shells 8.
  • the grooves .26 located near the free edges of the longitudinal sections, therefore on the interior side of the tunnel of two exterior faces 14 facing two successive shells 8 receive and guide the lateral edges of an interior formwork plate 13.
  • This inner plate 13 constitutes the inner connection between two successive shells 8, and therefore the continuity of the inner wall of the tunnel.
  • the interior plates 13 and the interior of the concavity of the shells 8 can advantageously be left bare, thus participating by their shapes and by a judicious choice of their colors, in the interior decoration of the tunnel. , in particular the law of underground stations and other places accessible to the public.
  • the interior plates 13 have a length less than that of the shells 8.
  • the space situated above the small upper edge of each interior plate 13 is occupied by a lintel 16 and by the end of the transverse beam 17 which it supports.
  • this beam 17 is offset downwards by a distance equal to the added thicknesses of the slabs 18 and of the upper slab 19, so that the upper surface of the upper slab 19 is at the same level as the upper surface of the bases. 11 in the upper half-moon of the shells 8, the edge of these bases 11 thus acting as lateral formwork for the upper slab 19, with the upper edge of the external formwork plates 12.
  • the grooves 26 located near the free edges of the longitudinal sections are widened at their upper part, so as to constitute, near the level of the upper edge of the internal formwork plate, shoulders 27 on which the end of a lintel sits. 16.
  • Fig. 3 is a partial view, on a larger scale, of the junction zone between two shells constituting the side walls of the tunnel, showing another method of fixing the lintels.
  • the shells 28 have, on the free edges of each of their plane and parallel longitudinal sections 29 in the vicinity of their base 30 in an upper half-moon, recesses 31 corresponding to the cross section of the lintels 32, and capable of receiving the ends of these lintels 32.
  • Each lintel is thus received by its ends in the recesses 31 of two contiguous sides 29 of two successive shells 28 and is supported by shoulders 33. It is held in place by studs 34.
  • Fig. 4 is a section, on a larger scale, of the junction zone between two shells 8, and shows in particular the position of the frame 15 inserted in the vertical space delimited by the shells 8 and by the outer 12 and inner 13 plates , which are guided and held respectively by grooves 25 and 26, in which are embedded U-shaped steel sections 35.
  • the method according to the invention has the advantage of allowing the tunnel to match the various unevennesses of the terrain as well as the height changes imposed by the layout.
  • FIG. 5 to 7 An example of such a tunnel is illustrated in Figs. 5 to 7, in which the elements common to all the embodiments described have the same reference numbers.
  • Figs. 5 and 6 illustrate a straight-aligned tunnel whose incline is sloping.
  • the different production phases are the same as those described above for the construction of a straight and horizontal tunnel.
  • the difference in level between two successive shells 8 is determined by the positioning and adjustment of the reinforced concrete footings 1.
  • the difference in level between two successive flanges 1 requires the use of lintels 37 of a particular type.
  • a lintel of this type as illustrated in FIG. 7, has at its upper surface two half-bearing surfaces 38 and 39 offset, separated by a rung 40 whose height is equal to the difference in level between two successive shells 8.
  • the ends of two half-beams 41 and 42 (Fig. 5) will come to bear respectively on the half-surfaces 38 and 39.
  • These beams 41 and 42 are, therefore, offset in height one relative to the other.
  • the connection with the vertical columns of the half-beams 41, 42 is done in the same way as in the case of a tunnel with a horizontal attitude, as described above.
  • the highest half-beam 42 of a pair of half-beams 41, 42 is at the same height as the lowest half-beam 41 of the next pair of half-beams 41, 42, a pre-slab 18 pressing at its ends on a half-beam 42 of a pair of half-beams 41, 42 and on the half-beam 41 of the next pair, will therefore be substantially horizontal.
  • the tunnel finishing work (concreting the upper slab, waterproofing, covering) is then carried out as described above.
  • Fig. 8 illustrates an example of a curved tunnel, in which the elements common to all the embodiments have the same reference numbers.
  • the construction phases of a curved tunnel are the same as before.
  • the interval between the soles 1 of the row situated outside the curve is greater than the interval between the soles 1 of the row situated inside the curve.
  • the connecting soles 43 cast in the intervals of the outer row will therefore be wider than the connecting soles 44 cast between the soles 1 of the inner row.
  • the interval between two shells 8 situated outside the curve of the tunnel is also greater than the interval between two interior shells 8.
  • the outer closure plates 45 between the shells 8 of the row located outside the curve will be wider than the outer closure plates 46 between the shells 8 of the row located inside the curve.
  • the interior closure plates 47 of the exterior row of shells 8 will be wider than the interior closure plates 48 of the interior row of shells 8.
  • Fig. 9 illustrates an example of a tunnel constructed in an aquifer.
  • the section illustrated is in a straight line, but it goes without saying that the method applies as well to a tunnel in curved alignment as to a tunnel whose attitude is sloping.
  • the tunnel section then comprises shells 53, the roof 54 of which is provided with openings 55 which put the interior of the latter in communication with the surrounding medium, and consequently allowing the passage of water.
  • the cavity of these shells 53 is closed over the entire height by a vertical partition 56, provided with an access hole 57 (Fig. 10). The interior of these shells thus fills with water to a level equal to the level of the sheet.
  • This pipe 58 is connected to the lower part of each hull 53 by an orifice 60 and allows the passage of the underground water table and the establishment of the equilibrium of the levels thereof on each side of the tunnel.
  • the method according to the invention is not limited to the production of simple tunnels, such as those described above, and an example of which is illustrated in section in FIG. 11, allowing circulation along two parallel lanes, but also lends itself to the production of tunnels of greater width, for example, a tunnel of double width, as illustrated in section in FIG. 12.
  • This tunnel comprises intermediate soles 61 arranged along the median axis of the tunnel, between the soles 1 of a pair of soles.
  • These intermediate flanges 61 support intermediate columns 62.
  • Each of these columns 62 supports the inner ends of two upper beams 63 perpendicular to the axis of the tunnel, the outer ends of which are supported by lintels and concreted with columns vertical (not shown) as described above.
  • the beams 63 are joined together and with the column 62 which supports them, the assembly thus obtained forming a double gantry, supported by the flanges 1 and the intermediate sole 61.
  • Fig. 13 shows a particular embodiment of a double tunnel, using upper beams 64 of greater length, which allows the development of a central landing platform 65, between the traffic lanes.
  • the width of the tunnel can be increased as desired, as required, thanks to the multiplication of intermediate elements (footings, columns 62, upper beams, etc.).
  • the method according to the invention also lends itself to the production of intermediate tunnel sections, for joining, for example, a single tunnel section (line) to a double tunnel section (station), passing through intermediate widths .
  • Fig. 14 shows a section along a horizontal plane, halfway up, of an advantageous embodiment of a shell 8 constituting a part of the vertical wall of a tunnel produced according to the invention.
  • the face turned towards the outside of the tunnel 66 on the side opposite to the vault 9 is flat and is connected perpendicular to the lateral faces 14, which are practically flat of the shell 8.
  • These outer faces are, moreover, advantageously provided with grooves 66 capable of improving the joining of these elements and of the reinforced concrete columns between which they are placed.
  • Recesses 68 are formed between the arch 9 and the flat rear face 66 so as to keep the shells thus produced their lightness. These recesses 68 are produced according to a known method, such as inserting polystyrene cores into the molds.
  • This embodiment makes it possible to reinforce the rigidity of the structure of an element.

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Description

La présente invention se rapporte à un procédé pour réaliser un tunnel au moyen d'éléments préfabriqués en béton, solidarisés entre eux sur chantier par bétonnage.The present invention relates to a method for making a tunnel by means of prefabricated concrete elements, joined together on site by concreting.

La réalisation de tunnels se fait généralement par construction de tronçons successifs. Les procédés les plus courants actuellement dans ce domaine sont :

  • - le procédé en fouilles ouvertes, suivant lequel on réalise dans une tranchée ouverte un cadre en béton armé composé d'un radier, de voiles verticaux et de dalles supérieures, et
  • - le procédé en fouilles blindées, suivant lequel on effectue un blindage latéral de la fouille avant de réaliser un cadre en béton armé comme ci-dessus. Suivant ce procédé, on peut également réaliser les voiles du tronçon de tunnel à l'aide du blindage latéral de la fouille, ou par des murs emboués qui servent de blindage du sol.
The realization of tunnels is generally done by construction of successive sections. The most common processes currently in this area are:
  • - the open excavation process, in which an reinforced concrete frame composed of a raft, vertical sails and upper slabs is produced in an open trench, and
  • - the armored excavation process, according to which a lateral shielding of the excavation is carried out before making a reinforced concrete frame as above. According to this process, the sails of the tunnel section can also be produced using the lateral armor of the excavation, or by mud walls which serve as armor for the ground.

Suivant les procédés courants, les tunnels sont réalisés soit par coulage en place des tronçons de tunnel successifs, soit par alignement de tronçons de tunnel préfabriqués.According to current methods, the tunnels are produced either by pouring successive tunnel sections in place, or by aligning prefabricated tunnel sections.

Le coulage en place de tronçons de tunnel qui est le procédé le plus répandu actuellement, nécessite l'installation de chantiers de longueur relativement importante. En effet, le coulage en place du radier, des voiles verticaux puis des dalles supérieures se fait sur des longueurs de plusieurs dizaines de mètres à la fois, ce qui entraîne que le chantier s'étend sur au moins une longueur égale. En réalité le chantier est beaucoup plus long, car il s'étend aussi bien en avant de la zone de coulage (terrassement et excavation des tranchées) qu'en arrière de celle-ci (remblayage, recouvrement du tunnel et finition) par rapport au sens d'avancement des travaux.The pouring in place of tunnel sections, which is the most widely used process today, requires the installation of sites of relatively great length. Indeed, the pouring in place of the raft, vertical sails then upper slabs is done on lengths of several tens of meters at a time, which means that the site extends over at least an equal length. In reality the site is much longer, because it extends as well in front of the pouring zone (earthworks and excavation of the trenches) as behind it (backfilling, covering of the tunnel and finishing) compared to the sense of progress of work.

Le procédé de réalisation de tunnels qui consiste à aligner des tronçons de tunnel préfabriqués permet de réduire la longueur du chantier. En effet, d'une part, au fur et à mesure que les tronçons préfabriqués sont placés, les travaux de remblayage et de finition peuvent être exécutés. D'autre part, il n'est pas nécessaire que la tranchée soit creusée sur une grande longueur ; celle-ci peut, en effet, être limitée à une longueur équivalant à quelques tronçons seulement. La longueur du chantier s'en trouve donc réduite.The tunneling process which consists of aligning prefabricated tunnel sections allows the length of the site to be reduced. On the one hand, as the prefabricated sections are placed, the backfilling and finishing work can be carried out. On the other hand, it is not necessary that the trench be dug over a great length; this can, in fact, be limited to a length equivalent to only a few sections. The length of the site is therefore reduced.

Toutefois, la manipulation des tronçons de tunnel préfabriqués nécessite l'utilisation d'engins de levage lourds et encombrants. Ces engins de levage de forte puissance sont, en général, montés sur rails, ce qui en limite l'utilisation (difficultés d'installation qui dépendent de la nature du sol supportant les rails, portée limitée à la longueur des rails de roulement). En effet, même pour des petites sections, les tronçons de tunnel préfabriqués sont d'un poids relativement élevé (de l'ordre de 50 tonnes). De ce fait, le procédé est limité à la construction de tunnels de sections réduites tels des passages pour piétons, véhicules automobiles légers ou métro de petit gabarit (par exemple T.A.U., Transport Automatisé Urbain) ; pour des sections plus importantes, le poids des tronçons préfabriqués serait en effet excessif.However, handling the prefabricated tunnel sections requires the use of heavy and bulky lifting equipment. These high-power lifting devices are generally mounted on rails, which limits their use (installation difficulties which depend on the nature of the soil supporting the rails, range limited to the length of the running rails). Even for small sections, the prefabricated tunnel sections are relatively heavy (around 50 tonnes). Therefore, the method is limited to the construction of tunnels of reduced sections such as pedestrian crossings, light motor vehicles or small metro (for example T.A.U., Automated Urban Transport); for larger sections, the weight of the prefabricated sections would indeed be excessive.

Un autre problème posé par la construction d'un ouvrage souterrain est que la circulation en surface est fortement perturbée (déviations, construction de viaducs de détournement, etc.) et même dans certains cas, supprimée le long de l'axe des travaux.Another problem posed by the construction of an underground structure is that surface circulation is greatly disturbed (detours, construction of diversion viaducts, etc.) and even in certain cases, eliminated along the axis of the works.

Un autre problème encore est le désagrément de longue durée occasionné aux riverains, provoquée par l'activité du chantier et les difficultés d'accès entraînées par l'éventrement des chaussées.Yet another problem is the long-term inconvenience caused to residents, caused by the activity of the site and the difficulties of access caused by the eventual pavement.

La présente invention a pour but un procédé pour la réalisation de tunnels, par assemblage d'éléments semi-préfabriqués qui :

  • - ne nécessite qu'un chantier de faible longueur,
  • -.fait appel à des machines de chantier courantes, de type automoteur,
  • - permet de réaliser indifféremment des tunnels de grande ou de petite section, en passant par des sections intermédiaires,
  • - permet le déplacement rapide du chantier le long de l'axe du tunnel, grâce à la répétition d'une série d'opérations simples.
The object of the present invention is a method for making tunnels, by assembling semi-prefabricated elements which:
  • - only requires a short site,
  • - uses common construction machinery, self-propelled,
  • - allows either large or small section tunnels to be made, passing through intermediate sections,
  • - allows rapid movement of the site along the axis of the tunnel, thanks to the repetition of a series of simple operations.

Le procédé suivant la présente invention fait en effet appel à un certain nombre d'éléments préfabriqués standardisés, de poids relativement réduit (environ 10tônnes), dont la manipulation ne nécessite que des engins de levage plus mobiles, du type couramment employé sur la plupart des chantiers. Ces engins de levage peuvent être des grues automobiles, qu'il n'est pas nécessaire de monter sur rails.The process according to the present invention in fact calls upon a certain number of standardized prefabricated elements, of relatively reduced weight (approximately 10 tonnes), the handling of which requires only more mobile lifting devices, of the type commonly used on most construction sites. These lifting devices can be automobile cranes, which do not need to be mounted on rails.

L'utilisation d'éléments préfabriqués standardisés permet au procédé de l'invention de réaliser indifféremment des tunnels _de faible section et des tunnels de plus grande section, par exemple pour métro de grand gabarit, chemin de fer souterrain, etc., en juxtaposant un nombre plus ou moins grand de ces éléments standardisés. De plus, comme on le verra plus loin, le procédé suivant l'invention permet de varier la section des tunnels, qui peut ainsi passer d'une section minimale (pour un tronçon de tunnel simple de ligne) à une section maximale (tronçons de tunnel comprenant des gares, avec quais de débarquement, salles d'attente, etc.) en passant par des sections intermédiaires.The use of standardized prefabricated elements allows the process of the invention to make either small section tunnels or larger section tunnels, for example for large gauge metro, underground railway, etc., by juxtaposing a greater or lesser number of these standardized elements. In addition, as will be seen below, the method according to the invention makes it possible to vary the section of the tunnels, which can thus pass from a minimum section (for a single tunnel section of line) to a maximum section (sections of tunnel comprising stations, with landing platforms, waiting rooms, etc.) passing through intermediate sections.

D'autre part, la manipulation et le placement des ces éléments standardisés est une suite d'opérations répétitives et simples. En effet, les différents éléments préfabriqués composant (les voiles verticaux, les dalles supérieures, etc.) sont placés un à un comme il sera décrit plus loin ; la construction du tunnel se fait donc de manière continue.On the other hand, the manipulation and placement of these standardized elements is a series of repetitive and simple operations. Indeed, the various prefabricated elements making up (vertical sails, upper slabs, etc.) are placed one by one as will be described later; the tunnel is therefore built continuously.

La présente invention a pour objet un procédé pour la réalisation d'un tunnel au moyen d'éléments préfabriqués en béton, qui sont solidarisés entre eux par bétonnage, après placement.The subject of the present invention is a method for making a tunnel using precast concrete elements, which are joined together by concreting, after placement.

La réalisation d'un tunnel suivant la présente invention comprend les phases suivantes :

  • - excavation transversale de la fouille ;
  • - pose et réglage des semelles en béton armé ayant une forme généralement rectangulaire et présentant une face d'appui supérieure, en ménageant un espace entre les semelles successives ; chaque semelle étant disposée de façon à se trouver à l'aplomb des parois verticales du tunnel à construire ;
  • - raccordement des semelles successives par coulage de semelles de liaison, formant ainsi une embase continue le long de chaque bord du tunnel ;
  • - pose d'éléments verticaux en béton armé constituant partiellement les parois latérales du tunnel sur chaque embase continue, de manière à ménager un intervalle entre éléments verticaux successifs d'une même rangée, chaque élément vertical étant disposé au droit d'un élément semblable de l'autre côté du tunnel à construire ;
  • - mise en place, dans chacun des intervalles entre éléments verticaux successifs de chaque rangée, de deux plaques de coffrage verticales espacées entre elles, parallèlement à l'axe du tunnel ; ces deux plaques formant, avec une partie de la surface extérieure de deux éléments verticaux successifs, un coffrage pour la coulée d'une colonne en béton armé ;
  • - introduction d'une armature à béton dans ledit coffrage ;
  • - pose de linteaux parallèlement à l'axe du tunnel, près du bord supérieur de la plaque de coffrage située du côté intérieur du tunnel à construire, de manière que chaque linteau s'appuie par ses extrémités sur deux éléments verticaux successifs ; chaque linteau est disposé au droit d'un linteau situé de l'autre côté du tunnel à construire ;
  • - coulage en place d'un radier en béton entre. les deux ambases continues ;
  • - pose de poutres supérieures transversales au droit des coffrages entre éléments verticaux successifs, de manière que chaque poutre s'appuie par ses extrémités sur deux linteaux disposés l'un au droit de l'autre ;
  • - coulage de béton dans les coffrages entre éléments verticaux successifs et solidarisation de chaque poutre avec les colonnes en béton armé ainsi formées et situées au droit l'une de l'autre ;
  • - remblayage derrière les parois latérales du tunnel ;
  • - pose et solidarisation de prédalles supérieures en béton armé sur les poutres, de manière telle que chaque prédalle s'appuie par son bord avant sur une poutre et par son bord arrière sur la poutre suivante par rapport au sens d'avancement du chantier ;
  • - bétonnage de la dalle supérieure et colmatage du tunnel, et
  • - remblayage et recouvrement du tunnel.
The realization of a tunnel according to the present invention comprises the following phases:
  • - transverse excavation of the excavation;
  • - Installation and adjustment of reinforced concrete footings having a generally rectangular shape and having an upper bearing face, by leaving a space between the successive footings; each sole being arranged so as to be perpendicular to the vertical walls of the tunnel to be built;
  • - connection of successive footings by pouring connecting footings, thus forming a continuous base along each edge of the tunnel;
  • - Installation of vertical elements of reinforced concrete partially constituting the side walls of the tunnel on each continuous base, so as to provide an interval between successive vertical elements of the same row, each vertical element being arranged in line with a similar element of the other side of the tunnel to be built;
  • - Installation, in each of the intervals between successive vertical elements of each row, of two vertical shuttering plates spaced apart, parallel to the axis of the tunnel; these two plates forming, with a part of the external surface of two successive vertical elements, a formwork for the casting of a column of reinforced concrete;
  • - introduction of a concrete reinforcement in said formwork;
  • - installation of lintels parallel to the axis of the tunnel, near the upper edge of the formwork plate located on the inside of the tunnel to be built, so that each lintel is supported by its ends on two successive vertical elements; each lintel is placed in line with a lintel located on the other side of the tunnel to be built;
  • - pouring in place of a concrete raft between. the two continuous embases;
  • - Installation of upper beams transverse to the right of the formwork between successive vertical elements, so that each beam is supported by its ends on two lintels arranged one to the right of the other;
  • - pouring concrete into the formwork between successive vertical elements and securing each beam with the reinforced concrete columns thus formed and located in line with one another;
  • - backfilling behind the side walls of the tunnel;
  • - Laying and joining of reinforced concrete upper slabs on the beams, so that each slab is supported by its front edge on a beam and by its rear edge on the next beam relative to the direction of progress of the site;
  • - concreting of the upper slab and clogging of the tunnel, and
  • - backfilling and covering of the tunnel.

Suivant une forme d'exécution préférée, les phases successives de réalisation du tunnel sont exécutées dans l'ordre au long du chantier, depuis le front d'avancement où se font le terrassement et l'excavation frontale de la fouille jusqu'à la zone de parachèvement où se font le remblayage et le recouvrement du tunnel achevé.According to a preferred embodiment, the successive phases of realization of the tunnel are executed in order along the site, from the advancement front where the earthworks and the front excavation of the excavation are done to the area where the backfilling and the covering of the completed tunnel are done.

Suivant une forme d'exécution avantageuse. les éléments verticaux constituant partiellement les parois latérales du tunnel sont des coques oblongues en béton armé présentant une voûte cylindrique dont la génératrice est parallèle au grand axe des coques ; ces coques sont fermées à chacune de leurs extrémités par une base en demi-lune, perpendiculaire à leur grand axe. Ces coques sont disposées de manière telle que leur concavité soit dirigée vers l'intérieur du tunnel, et que leur voûte soit dirigée vers les parois de la tranchée.According to an advantageous embodiment. the vertical elements partially constituting the side walls of the tunnel are oblong reinforced concrete shells having a cylindrical arch whose generatrix is parallel to the major axis of the shells; these shells are closed at each of their ends by a half-moon base, perpendicular to their long axis. These shells are arranged in such a way that their concavity is directed towards the interior of the tunnel, and that their vault is directed towards the walls of the trench.

De manière plus particulière, les coques présentent deux pans longitudinaux plans et parallèles prolongeant la voûte de chaque côté de celle-ci.More particularly, the shells have two flat and parallel longitudinal sides extending the arch on each side thereof.

Une forme de réalisation avantageuse de ces éléments présente, du côté extérieur de la voûte, une face arrière sensiblement plane qui se raccorde perpendiculairement aux faces latérales de l'élément, elles aussi sensiblement planes.An advantageous embodiment of these elements has, on the outside of the vault, a substantially planar rear face which is connected perpendicular to the lateral faces of the element, which are also substantially planar.

Suivant une forme d'exécution préférée, les coques présentent sur les faces extérieures des pans longitudinaux deux rainures parallèles au grand axe des coques, aptes à revevoir les bords latéraux des deux plaques de coffrage.According to a preferred embodiment, the shells have on the outer faces of the longitudinal sides two grooves parallel to the major axis of the shells, capable of receiving the lateral edges of the two formwork plates.

Suivant une forme d'exécution particulière, les rainures situées près du bord libre des pans longitudinaux plans des coques, et donc situées du côté intérieur du tunnel, sont élargies à leur partie supérieure, de manière à constituer près du niveau qu'occupera le bord supérieur de la plaque mise en place, des épaulements sur lesquels s'assied l'extrémité d'un linteau.According to a particular embodiment, the grooves located near the free edge of the plane longitudinal sides of the hulls, and therefore located on the inside of the tunnel, are widened at their upper part, so as to constitute close to the level which the edge will occupy. upper of the plate in place, shoulders on which the end of a lintel sits.

Suivant une forme d'exécution préférée, les semelles en béton armé ainsi que les semelles de liaison assurant la continuité entre celles-ci sont pourvues, sur leur face d'appui supérieure, d'une feuillure parallèle à l'axe du tunnel et dirigée vers l'intérieur du tunnel.According to a preferred embodiment, the reinforced concrete footings as well as the connecting footings ensuring continuity between them are provided, on their upper bearing face, with a rebate parallel to the axis of the tunnel and directed towards the interior of the tunnel.

L'assemblage d'une poutre, des deux colonnes en béton armé qui supportent chacune des extrémités de cette poutre et les semelles supportant chacune de ces colonnes en béton armé, forme un portique apte à reprendre les pressions verticales exercées par les terres et la voirie supérieures, ainsi que les pressions horizontales de poussée des terres.The assembly of a beam, of the two reinforced concrete columns which support each of the ends of this beam and the footings supporting each of these reinforced concrete columns, forms a gantry capable of taking up the vertical pressures exerted by the earth and the roads. higher, as well as the horizontal earth pressure.

Ainsi que l'on peut le constater, le procédé suivant l'invention présente un certain nombre d'avantages.As can be seen, the method according to the invention has a number of advantages.

La forme en voûte des coques utilisées préférentiellement offre l'avantage de reprendre les charges horizontales de poussée des terres après remblayage derrière les parois latérales du tunnel avec des cloisons relativement minces et ne nécessitant pas de renforts additionnels.The arch shape of the hulls preferably used offers the advantage of taking up the horizontal loads of pushing the earth after backfilling behind the side walls of the tunnel with relatively thin partitions and not requiring additional reinforcements.

On peut préfabriquer les coques dans des moules exécutés spécialement à cet usage mais, pour de petites séries, il est plus économique d'utiliser des moules de forme standardisée, généralement de section rectangulaire. Dans une forme de réâlisation avantageuse de ces éléments, la face tournée vers l'extérieur du tunnel est pratiquement plane et se raccorde perpendiculairement aux faces latérales, elles aussi pratiquement planes. Une telle forme de réalisation coïncide avec la forme de moules standards.The hulls can be prefabricated in molds specially made for this purpose but, for small series, it is more economical to use molds of standardized shape, generally of rectangular section. In an advantageous embodiment of these elements, the face turned towards the outside of the tunnel is practically planar and is connected perpendicular to the lateral faces, which are also practically planar. Such an embodiment coincides with the form of standard molds.

Il est d'une exécution facile, notamment grâce à l'utilisation d'éléments préfabriqués de poids relativement réduit (inférieur à 10 tonnes), dont la manipulation ne nécessite que des engins de manutention courants.It is easy to execute, in particular thanks to the use of prefabricated elements of relatively reduced weight (less than 10 tonnes), the handling of which requires only ordinary handling equipment.

Le nombre d'éléments préfabriqués utilisés étant réduit (en effet, il ne comprend principalement que les semelles, éléments verticaux formant les parois verticales, linteaux, poutres supérieures et prédalles), la pose de ceux-ci est une suite d'opérations répétées, ce qui favorise la rapidité d'exécution. Ainsi, par exemple, la construction d'un tunnel de métro de type lourd peut avancer à raison d'environ 3 mètres courants par jour.The number of prefabricated elements used being reduced (indeed, it mainly comprises only the footings, vertical elements forming the vertical walls, lintels, upper beams and slabs), the installation of these is a series of repeated operations, which promotes speed of execution. Thus, for example, the construction of a heavy-type metro tunnel can progress at the rate of approximately 3 running meters per day.

La perturbation causée aux riverains est donc minimale, grâce à la rapidité d'exécution et donc grâce à la mobilité du chantier. Le chantier est d'autant plus mobile que les installations de chantier sont réduites, grâce notamment à la fabrication d'un maximum d'éléments hors du site (préfabrication en usine).The disturbance caused to residents is therefore minimal, thanks to the speed of execution and therefore thanks to the mobility of the site. The site is all the more mobile as the site facilities are reduced, thanks in particular to the manufacture of a maximum of elements off the site (prefabrication in the factory).

En effet, pendant que l'on effectue les différentes opérations énumérées ci-dessus, pour un tronçon de tunnel, le creusement de la tranchée se poursuit de manière régulière. Aussitôt qu'une longueur équivalant au tronçon de tunnel suivant a été creusée, la même suite d'opérations (pose et réglage de semelles, coulage de semelles intermédiaires, pose de coques verticales, etc.) peut être effectuée pour le tronçon de tunnel suivant, avec un déphasage suffisant pour éviter toute interférence entre les phases de réalisation des tronçons successifs.In fact, while the various operations listed above are carried out, for a tunnel section, the digging of the trench continues regularly. As soon as a length equivalent to the next section of tunnel has been dug, the same sequence of operations (fitting and adjusting of footings, pouring of midsoles, fitting of vertical shells, etc.) can be carried out for the next section of tunnel , with a sufficient phase shift to avoid any interference between the phases of production of the successive sections.

A titre d'exemple, un tronçon de tunnel équivalant à la longueur de quatre modules (un module comprenant deux semelles et deux coques verticales se trouvant au droit les unes des autres et une poutre supérieure transversale) peut être réalisé en 13 jours :

  • - les 1er et 2e jours : creusement d'une tranchée correspondant à la longueur du tronçon de tunnel ;
  • - le 3e jour : pose et réglage des semelles ;
  • - le 4e jour : liaison entre ces semelles par coulage de semelles de liaison ;
  • - le 5e jour : pose des coques verticales ;
  • - le 6e jour : pose des linteaux et fermeture entre coques par placement des plaques de coffrage ;
  • - les 7e, 8e et 9e jours : coulage du radier et pose des caniveaux, coulage des colonnes en béton armé entre les coques verticales ;
  • - les 10e et 11 e jou rs : pose des poutres transversales et solidarisation, pose des prédalles ;
  • - les 12e et 13e jours : coulage de la dalle supérieure et remblayage.
As an example, a tunnel section equivalent to the length of four modules (a module comprising two footings and two vertical shells lying in line with each other and a transverse upper beam) can be completed in 13 days:
  • - the 1 st and 2 nd day: digging a trench corresponding to the length of the tunnel section;
  • - 3rd day: installation and adjustment of soles;
  • - the 4th day: connection between these flanges by casting bonding pads;
  • - day 5: installation of vertical shells;
  • - the 6th day: laying lintels and closure between shells by placing the caul plates;
  • - the 7 th , 8 th and 9 th days: pouring the raft and laying the gutters, pouring the reinforced concrete columns between the vertical hulls;
  • - the 10th and 11th day s: laying transverse beams and fastening, floor plates poses;
  • - the 12 th and 13 th days: pouring of the upper slab and backfilling.

Le procédé suivant l'invention se prête également à la réalisation de tunnels en milieu aquifère, grâce à l'aménagement des coques, qui serviront ainsi de passage de nappes comme il sera décrit plus bas. Il importe en effet dans le cas de terrains aquifères, de ne pas s'opposer aux mouvements des nappes souterraines.The process according to the invention also lends itself to the construction of tunnels in an aquiferous environment, thanks to the arrangement of the hulls, which will thus serve as a passage for sheets as will be described below. It is indeed important in the case of aquifers, not to oppose the movements of groundwater.

Le procédé permet d'épouser les diverses dénivellations du terrain ainsi que les changements de direction imposés par le tracé, tout en utilisant la majorité des éléments préfabriqués ci-dessus.The process allows to marry the various unevennesses of the ground as well as the changes of direction imposed by the layout, while using the majority of the prefabricated elements above.

Le procédé se prête également à la réalisation de tunnels de diverses largeurs, par exemple, étroits en ligne droite, larges en gare, en passant par des sections intermédiaires reliant les tronçons étroits et les tronçons larges. Ainsi qu'il sera décrit plus bas, ces différentes largeurs sont réalisées avec les éléments préfabriqués disponibles déjà décrits.The method also lends itself to the production of tunnels of various widths, for example, narrow in a straight line, wide at the station, passing through intermediate sections connecting the narrow sections and the wide sections. As will be described below, these different widths are produced with the available prefabricated elements already described.

. Le procédé suivant l'invention permet d'allier le gros oeuvre et les parachèvements ; en particulier à l'intérieur des stations on peut tirer parti de la forme des coques. Bien sûr, les dimensions de ces coques peuvent varier entre des limites relativement larges, mais suivant une forme d'exécution particulière et avantageuse de l'invention, la largeur de ces coques est comprise entre 2 et 3 mètres. De cette façon, les parois des stations présentent des espèces de niches, qui peuvent être aménagées, suivant les besoins, par exemple, en y installant des cabines téléphoniques, des distributeurs automatiques, des banquettes, etc. Dans ce dernier cas, les banquettes peuvent être avantageusement des nervures continues ou interrompues coulées dans la masse lors de la fabrication en usine des coques.. The process according to the invention makes it possible to combine the structural work and the finishing touches; in particular inside the stations one can take advantage of the shape of the hulls. Of course, the dimensions of these shells can vary between relatively wide limits, but according to a particular and advantageous embodiment of the invention, the width of these shells is between 2 and 3 meters. In this way, the walls of the stations present species of niches, which can be fitted out, as required, for example, by installing telephone booths, automatic distributors, benches, etc. In the latter case, the benches can advantageously be continuous or interrupted ribs cast in the mass during the manufacture in the factory of the shells.

On peut également tirer parti de l'aspect des coques et des plaques de fermeture intérieures reliant les coques successives entre elles, en modifiant à volonté l'aspect de la matière (coloration, coffrages structurés, habillage intégré, etc.).One can also take advantage of the appearance of the shells and the internal closure plates connecting the successive shells together, by modifying the appearance of the material as desired (coloring, structured formwork, integrated covering, etc.).

De manière analogue, les coques formant les parois du tunnel entre les stations peuvent être aménagées pour recevoir des appareils électriques tels des boîtes de jonction, des dispositifs d'éclairage, de signalisation, etc.Similarly, the shells forming the walls of the tunnel between the stations can be arranged to receive electrical devices such as junction boxes, lighting, signaling devices, etc.

La configuration particulière des parois peut également être exploitée avantageusement sur le plan acoustique. En effet, les sons sont captés par la surface des parois, ce qui abaisse considérablement le niveau acoustique et améliore ainsi le confort des usagers du tunnel, notamment des passagers en attente aux gares.The particular configuration of the walls can also be used advantageously acoustically. Indeed, sounds are picked up by the surface of the walls, which considerably lowers the acoustic level and thus improves the comfort of tunnel users, especially passengers waiting at stations.

L'invention sera illustrée en se référant aux figures annexées, parmi lesquelles :

  • la Fig. 1 est une vue en perspective, avec arrachement partiel, d'un chantier de construction d'un tunnel suivant l'invention ;
  • la Fig. 2 est une vue, à plus grande échelle, de la zone désignée par Il à la Fig. 1, montrant un mode de fixation des linteaux ;
  • la Fig. 3 est une vue partielle, à plus grande échelle, d'une variante d'exécution montrant un autre mode de fixation des linteaux ;
  • la Fig. 4 est une coupe suivant un plan horizontal dans la zone de jonction entre deux coques constituant les parois latérales du tunnel ;
  • la Fig. 5 est une coupe suivant un plan vertical et avec arrachement partiel, d'une portion d'un tunnel dont l'assiette est en pente ;
  • la Fig. 6 est une vue, à plus grande échelle, de trois coques successives lorsque l'assiette du tunnel est en pente ;
  • la Fig. 7 est une vue, à plus grande échelle, d'un linteau utilisé dans l'assemblage de la Fig. 6 ;
  • la Fig. est une coupe suivant un plan horizontal et avec arrachement partiel, d'une portion de tunnel en alignement courbe ;
  • la Fig. est une coupe suivant un plan horizontal avec arrachement partiel, d'une portion de tunnel en milieu aquifère ;
  • la Fig. 10 est une coupe suivant la ligne X-X de la Fig. 9 ;
  • la Fig. 11 est une coupe transversale d'un tunnel simple suivant l'invention ;
  • la Fig. 12 est une coupe transversale d'un tunnel double suivant l'invention ;
  • la Fig. 13 est une coupe transversale d'un tunnel double suivant l'invention, aménagé en gare.
  • la Fig. 14 est une vue en coupe suivant un plan horizontal à mi-hauteur d'une forme de réalisation avantageuse d'une coque constituant la paroi du tunnel.
The invention will be illustrated with reference to the appended figures, among which:
  • Fig. 1 is a perspective view, with partial cutaway, of a construction site of a tunnel according to the invention;
  • Fig. 2 is a view, on a larger scale, of the area designated by II in FIG. 1, showing a method of fixing the lintels;
  • Fig. 3 is a partial view, on a larger scale, of an alternative embodiment showing another method of fixing the lintels;
  • Fig. 4 is a section along a horizontal plane in the junction zone between two shells constituting the side walls of the tunnel;
  • Fig. 5 is a section along a vertical plane and with partial cutaway, of a portion of a tunnel whose base is sloping;
  • Fig. 6 is a view, on a larger scale, of three successive shells when the base of the tunnel is sloping;
  • Fig. 7 is a view, on a larger scale, of a lintel used in the assembly of FIG. 6;
  • Fig. is a section along a horizontal plane and with partial cutaway, of a tunnel portion in curved alignment;
  • Fig. is a section along a horizontal plane with partial cutaway, of a portion of tunnel in an aquifer;
  • Fig. 10 is a section along line XX of FIG. 9;
  • Fig. 11 is a cross section of a simple tunnel according to the invention;
  • Fig. 12 is a cross section of a double tunnel according to the invention;
  • Fig. 13 is a cross section of a double tunnel according to the invention, arranged in a station.
  • Fig. 14 is a sectional view along a horizontal plane at mid-height of an advantageous embodiment of a shell constituting the wall of the tunnel.

La Fig. 1 représente toutes les phases pour la réalisation d'un tunnel suivant le procédé de l'invention.Fig. 1 shows all the phases for the realization of a tunnel according to the method of the invention.

Après les travaux préliminaires de terrassement et d'excavation transversale de la fouille, des semelles préfabriquées en béton armé 1 de forme généralement rectangulaire, dont la face supérieure 2 présente une feuillure 3, sont déposées sur le fond de la tranchée, en ménageant un espace entre les semelles 1 successives. Chaque semelle est disposée de manière à se trouver à l'aplomb des parois verticales du tunnel à construire, de telle sorte que. la feuillure 3 soit dirigée vers l'intérieur du tunnel.After the preliminary earthworks and transverse excavation of the excavation, prefabricated reinforced concrete footings 1 of generally rectangular shape, the upper face 2 of which has a rebate 3, are deposited on the bottom of the trench, leaving a space between the successive soles 1. Each sole is arranged so as to be perpendicular to the vertical walls of the tunnel to be constructed, so that. the rebate 3 is directed towards the interior of the tunnel.

Les semelles 1 sont raccordées entre elles par coulage de semelles de liaison 4 dans les espaces entre les semelles 1, de manière à former ainsi une embase continue 5 le long de chaque bord du tunnel. Dans ce but, chaque semelle de liaison 4 présente également sur sa face supérieure 6 une feuillure 7 reliant les feuillures 3 de deux semelles 1 successives.The soles 1 are connected together by casting connecting soles 4 in the spaces between the soles 1, so as to thus form a continuous base 5 along each edge of the tunnel. For this purpose, each connecting flange 4 also has on its upper face 6 a rebate 7 connecting the rebates 3 of two successive flanges 1.

Des coques 8 oblongues en béton armé présentant une voûte cylindrique 9 dont la génératrice est parallèle à leur grand axe, deux pans longitudinaux plans 10 prolongeant cette voûte 9 de chaque côté, et fermées par une base 11 en demi-lune à chacune de leurs extrémités, sont disposées sur chaque embase continue 5, de manière à ménager un intervalle entre coques 8 successives, et de manière que leur voûte 9 soit dirigée vers la paroi de la tranchée et, par conséquent, que leur concavité soit dirigée vers l'intérieur du tunnel. Les coques 8 sont placées de manière telle que chaque coque 8 prenne appui à la fois sur deux semelles 1 successives et donc que l'intervalle entre deux coques successives soit situé au droit d'une semelle 1.Oblong reinforced concrete shells 8 having a cylindrical vault 9 whose generator is parallel to their major axis, two plane longitudinal sides 10 extending this vault 9 on each side, and closed by a base 11 in a half-moon at each of their ends , are arranged on each continuous base 5, so as to provide an interval between successive shells 8, and so that their vault 9 is directed towards the wall of the trench and, consequently, that their concavity is directed towards the interior of the tunnel. The shells 8 are placed in such a way that each shell 8 is supported both on two successive flanges 1 and therefore that the interval between two successive shells is located in line with a sole 1.

De manière avantageuse, les coques 8 sont placées au moyen d'un mannequin de positionnement portant une paire de coques 8, de façon à placer simultanément deux coques. de chaque côté du tunnel, l'une au droit de l'autre.Advantageously, the shells 8 are placed by means of a positioning mannequin carrying a pair of shells 8, so as to simultaneously place two shells. on each side of the tunnel, one to the right of the other.

L'intervalle entre deux coques 8 successives est fermé, du côté de la paroi de la tranchée, par une plaque de coffrage extérieure 12 et, du côté intérieur du tunnel, par une plaque de coffrage intérieure 13. Les deux plaques de coffrage 12.13 sont espacées entre elles et sont disposées parallèlement à l'axe du tunnel.The interval between two successive shells 8 is closed, on the side of the wall of the trench, by an exterior formwork plate 12 and, on the interior side of the tunnel, by an interior formwork plate 13. The two formwork plates 12.13 are spaced apart and are arranged parallel to the axis of the tunnel.

Les plaques de coffrage 12, 13 sont, par exemple, en asbeste-ciment et délimitent, avec les faces extérieures 14 des pans 10 se faisant face de deux coques 8 successives, un espace vertical entre deux coques 8 successives. Dans cet espace vertical est insérée une armature à béton 15.The formwork plates 12, 13 are, for example, made of asbestos-cement and delimit, with the external faces 14 of the sides 10 facing two successive shells 8, a vertical space between two successive shells 8. In this vertical space is inserted a concrete reinforcement 15.

Les plaques de coffrage extérieures 12 ont sensiblement la même hauteur que les éléments verticaux 8. Par contre, les plaques de coffrage intérieures 13 sont nettement moins hautes. En effet, au-dessus de chaque plaque de coffrage intérieure 13, est disposé, parallèlement à l'axe du tunnel, un linteau 16, qui s'appuie par ses extrémités, sur les pans 10 se faisant face de deux coques 8 successives, comme il sera décrit plus loin. Des poutres supérieures transversales 17 sont ensuite placées perpendiculairement à l'axe du tunnel, de manière à s'appuyer par chacune de leurs extrémités sur des linteaux 16 se faisant face. Les poutres supérieures transversales. 17 supportent, à leur tour, des prédalles supérieures en béton armé 18, disposées de manière telle que chaque prédalle 18 s'appuie par son bord avant sur une poutre supérieure transversale 17, et par son bord arrière sur la poutre supérieure transversale 17 suivante, par rapport au sens d'avancement du chantier, et également de manière que la surface inférieure des prédalles 18 soit au même niveau que la surface inférieure des bases 11 en demi-lune supérieures des coques 8, de façon à présenter avec celles-ci une surface continue qui peut être laissée à nu et constituer le plafond du tunnel, entre les poutres supérieures transversales 17. Les bases 11 en demi-lune ont une épaisseur (environ 14 cm) supérieure à celle des prédalles 18 (environ 5 cm) et dépassent par conséquent au-dessus de la surface supérieure des prédalles 18. La tranche des bases 11 en demi-lune supérieure constitue avantageusement avec le bord supérieur des plaques de coffrage extérieures 12 un coffrage latéral pour le coulage de la dalle supérieure 19.The external formwork plates 12 have substantially the same height as the vertical elements 8. On the other hand, the internal formwork plates 13 are significantly lower. In fact, above each interior formwork plate 13, is arranged, parallel to the axis of the tunnel, a lintel 16, which is supported by its ends, on the sides 10 facing two successive shells 8, as will be described later. Transverse upper beams 17 are then placed perpendicular to the axis of the tunnel, so as to rest at each of their ends on lintels 16 facing each other. The transverse upper beams. 17 in turn support upper reinforced concrete slabs 18, arranged in such a way that each slab 18 is supported by its front edge on a transverse upper beam 17, and by its trailing edge on the following transverse upper beam 17, relative to the direction of progress of the site, and also so that the lower surface of the slabs 18 is at the same level as the lower surface of the bases 11 in upper half-moon of the shells 8, so as to present therewith a continuous surface which can be left bare and constitute the ceiling of the tunnel, between the upper transverse beams 17. The bases 11 in a half-moon have a thickness (approximately 14 cm) greater than that of the slabs 18 (approximately 5 cm) and exceed consequently above the upper surface of the slabs 18. The edge of the bases 11 in the upper half-moon advantageously constitutes with the upper edge of the external formwork plates 12 a lateral formwork for pouring the upper slab 19.

Du béton est coulé dans chacun des espaces verticaux entre deux coques 8 successives, où se trouve déjà l'armature à béton 15. Les poutres transversales 17 sont ensuite solidarisées avec les colonnes en béton armé 20 ainsi obtenues. L'assemblage d'une poutre transversale 17, des deux colonnes en béton armé 20 se trouvant au droit de cette poutre 17 et des semelles 1 supportant chacune de ces colonnes 20, forme un portique apte à reprendre les pressions verticales et horizontales exercées par les terres après recouvrement du tunnel.Concrete is poured into each of the vertical spaces between two successive shells 8, where the concrete reinforcement 15 is already located. The transverse beams 17 are then secured to the reinforced concrete columns 20 thus obtained. The assembly of a transverse beam 17, of the two reinforced concrete columns 20 located at the right of this beam 17 and of the footings 1 supporting each of these columns 20, forms a gantry able to take up the vertical and horizontal pressures exerted by the earth after covering the tunnel.

Un radier 21 est ensuite coulé entre les deux embases continues 5 formées par les semelles 1 et les semelles de liaison 4, coulées entre celles-ci, de manière à recouvrir les feuillures 3 et 7. Ce radier 21 supportera des caniveaux 22 destinés au passage de câbles, canalisations, etc., ainsi que l'infrastructure de la voie, par exemple le ballast 23 d'une voie ferrée 24.A slab 21 is then poured between the two continuous bases 5 formed by the flanges 1 and the connecting flanges 4, cast therebetween, so as to cover the rebates 3 and 7. This slab 21 will support gutters 22 intended for passage cables, pipes, etc., as well as the track infrastructure, for example the ballast 23 of a railway 24.

Le remblayage latéral de la tranchée, derrière les coques 8 et les plaques de coffrage extérieures 12 les reliant, peut déjà être effectué, alors que l'on procède à la pose des prédalles 18 sur les poutres supérieures 17, ainsi qu'au bétonnage de la dalle supérieure 19.The lateral backfilling of the trench, behind the shells 8 and the external formwork plates 12 connecting them, can already be carried out, while the slabs 18 are laid on the upper beams 17, as well as the concreting of the upper slab 19.

Avant le remblayage final, on procède au colmatage du tunnel en vue d'en assurer l'étanchéité.Before the final backfilling, the tunnel is plugged in order to seal it.

La Fig. 2 est une vue, à grande échelle, de trois coques 8 successives, montrant les plaques de coffrage extérieures 12 et intérieures 13 et les linteaux 16 sur lesquels s'appuient les poutres supérieures transversales 17 avant solidarisation avec les colonnes en béton armé 20 coulées dans les intervalles entre les coques 8 successives.Fig. 2 is a view, on a large scale, of three successive shells 8, showing the external 12 and internal 13 formwork plates and the lintels 16 on which the upper transverse beams 17 are supported before joining with the reinforced concrete columns 20 poured into the intervals between the successive shells 8.

Les coques 8 présentent, sur les faces extérieures 14 des pans longitudinaux plans et parallèles 10 des coques 8, deux rainures 25, 26 parallèles au grand axe de celles-ci ; les rainures 25 situées du côté de la paroi de la tranchée de deux faces . extérieures 14 se faisant face de deux coques 8 successives reçoivent et guident les bords latéraux d'une plaque de coffrage extérieure 12. Cette plaque de coffrage extérieure 12 constitue la liaison entre deux coques 8 successives, du côté extérieur du tunnel, et assure ainsi la continuité de la paroi latérale extérieure du tunnel. Les plaques 12 ont sensiblement la même longueur que les coques 8 et leur petit bord supérieur arrive sensiblement à la même hauteur que la surface supérieure de la base 11 en demi-lune des coques 8.The shells 8 have, on the external faces 14 of the plane and parallel longitudinal sides 10 of the shells 8, two grooves 25, 26 parallel to the major axis thereof; the grooves 25 located on the side of the wall of the trench on two sides. external 14 facing two successive shells 8 receive and guide the lateral edges of an external formwork plate 12. This external formwork plate 12 constitutes the connection between two successive shells 8, on the external side of the tunnel, and thus ensures the continuity of the outer side wall of the tunnel. The plates 12 have substantially the same length as the shells 8 and their small upper edge arrives at substantially the same height as the upper surface of the base 11 in the half-moon shape of the shells 8.

De même, les rainures .26 situées près des bords libres des pans longitudinaux, donc du côté intérieur du tunnel de deux faces extérieures 14 se faisant face de deux coques 8 successives reçoivent et guident les bords latéraux d'une plaque de coffrage intérieure 13. Cette plaque intérieure 13 constitue la liaison intérieure entre deux coques 8 successives, et donc la continuité de la paroi intérieure du tunnel.Likewise, the grooves .26 located near the free edges of the longitudinal sections, therefore on the interior side of the tunnel of two exterior faces 14 facing two successive shells 8 receive and guide the lateral edges of an interior formwork plate 13. This inner plate 13 constitutes the inner connection between two successive shells 8, and therefore the continuity of the inner wall of the tunnel.

Comme il a été déjà expliqué plus haut, les plaques intérieures 13 et l'intérieur de la concavité des coques 8 peuvent être avantageusement laissés à nu, participant ainsi par leurs formes et par un choix judicieux de leurs coloris, à la décoration intérieure du tunnel, notamment au droit des gares souterraines et autres lieux accessibles au public.As already explained above, the interior plates 13 and the interior of the concavity of the shells 8 can advantageously be left bare, thus participating by their shapes and by a judicious choice of their colors, in the interior decoration of the tunnel. , in particular the law of underground stations and other places accessible to the public.

Ainsi que le montrent les Fig. 1 et 2, les plaques intérieures 13 ont une longueur inférieure à celle des coques 8. En effet, l'espace situé au-dessus du petit bord supérieur de chaque plaque intérieure 13 est occupé par un linteau 16 et par l'extrémité de la poutre transversale 17 qu'il supporte. De plus, cette poutre 17 est décalée vers le bas d'une distance égale aux épaisseurs additionnées des prédalles 18 et de la dalle supérieure 19, de sorte que la surface supérieure de la dalle supérieure 19 soit au même niveau que la surface supérieure des bases 11 en demi-lune supérieures des coques 8, la tranche de ces bases 11 faisant ainsi office de coffrage latéral de la dalle supérieure 19, avec le bord supérieur des plaques de coffrage extérieures 12.As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the interior plates 13 have a length less than that of the shells 8. In fact, the space situated above the small upper edge of each interior plate 13 is occupied by a lintel 16 and by the end of the transverse beam 17 which it supports. In addition, this beam 17 is offset downwards by a distance equal to the added thicknesses of the slabs 18 and of the upper slab 19, so that the upper surface of the upper slab 19 is at the same level as the upper surface of the bases. 11 in the upper half-moon of the shells 8, the edge of these bases 11 thus acting as lateral formwork for the upper slab 19, with the upper edge of the external formwork plates 12.

Les rainures 26 situées près des bords libres des pans longitudinaux sont élargies à leur partie supérieure, de manière à constituer près du niveau du bord supérieur de la plaque de coffrage intérieur, des épaulements 27 sur lesquels s'assied l'extrémité d'un linteau 16.The grooves 26 located near the free edges of the longitudinal sections are widened at their upper part, so as to constitute, near the level of the upper edge of the internal formwork plate, shoulders 27 on which the end of a lintel sits. 16.

La Fig. 3 est une vue partielle, à plus grande échelle, de la zone de jonction entre deux coques constituant les parois latérales du tunnel, montrant un autre mode de fixation des linteaux. Les coques 28 présentent, sur les bords libres de chacun de leurs pans longitudinaux plans et parallèles 29 au voisinage de leur base 30 en demi-lune supérieure, des évidements 31 correspondant à la section des linteaux 32, et aptes à recevoir les extrémités de ces linteaux 32. Chaque linteau est ainsi reçu par ses extrémités dans les évidements 31 de deux pans 29 contigus de deux coques 28 successives et est supporté par des épaulements 33. Il est maintenu en place par des goujons 34.Fig. 3 is a partial view, on a larger scale, of the junction zone between two shells constituting the side walls of the tunnel, showing another method of fixing the lintels. The shells 28 have, on the free edges of each of their plane and parallel longitudinal sections 29 in the vicinity of their base 30 in an upper half-moon, recesses 31 corresponding to the cross section of the lintels 32, and capable of receiving the ends of these lintels 32. Each lintel is thus received by its ends in the recesses 31 of two contiguous sides 29 of two successive shells 28 and is supported by shoulders 33. It is held in place by studs 34.

La Fig. 4 est une coupe, à plus grande échelle, de la zone de jonction entre deux coques 8, et montre notamment la position de l'armature 15 insérée dans l'espace vertical délimité par les coques 8 et par les plaques extérieure 12 et intérieure 13, lesquelles sont guidées et maintenues respectivement par des rainures 25 et 26, dans lesquelles sont encastrés des profilés en U en acier 35.Fig. 4 is a section, on a larger scale, of the junction zone between two shells 8, and shows in particular the position of the frame 15 inserted in the vertical space delimited by the shells 8 and by the outer 12 and inner 13 plates , which are guided and held respectively by grooves 25 and 26, in which are embedded U-shaped steel sections 35.

Le procédé suivant l'invention a t'avantage de permettre au tunnel d'épouser les diverses dénivellations du terrain ainsi que les changements de hauteur imposés par le tracé.The method according to the invention has the advantage of allowing the tunnel to match the various unevennesses of the terrain as well as the height changes imposed by the layout.

Un exemple d'un tunnel de ce type est illustré aux Fig. 5 à 7, dans lesquelles les éléments communs à toutes les formes de réalisation décrites ont les mêmes chiffres de référence.An example of such a tunnel is illustrated in Figs. 5 to 7, in which the elements common to all the embodiments described have the same reference numbers.

Les Fig. 5 et 6 illustrent un tunnel à alignement droit dont l'assiette est en pente. Les différentes phases de réalisation sont les mêmes que celles décrites plus haut pour la construction d'un tunnel droit et horizontal. La différence de niveau entre deux coques 8 successives est déterminée par le positionnement et le réglage des semelles en béton armé 1.Figs. 5 and 6 illustrate a straight-aligned tunnel whose incline is sloping. The different production phases are the same as those described above for the construction of a straight and horizontal tunnel. The difference in level between two successive shells 8 is determined by the positioning and adjustment of the reinforced concrete footings 1.

La différence de niveau entre deux semelles 1 successives, supportant entre elles une coque 8 ainsi qu'illustré à la Fig. 5, nécessite l'insertion, entre la semelle 1 la plus basse et la coque 8 supportée par ces deux semelles 1, d'une cale 36 dont la hauteur est égale à la différence de niveau entre deux semelles 1 successives, de manière à ce que la coque 8 reste verticale. Il est, en effet, essentiel que les colonnes qui seront coulées dans les espaces entre les coques successives 8 soient verticales.The difference in level between two successive flanges 1, supporting between them a shell 8 as illustrated in FIG. 5, requires the insertion, between the lowest sole 1 and the shell 8 supported by these two soles 1, of a wedge 36 whose height is equal to the difference in level between two successive soles 1, so that that the shell 8 remains vertical. It is, in fact, essential that the columns which will be poured in the spaces between the successive shells 8 are vertical.

De même, la différence de niveau entre deux semelles 1 (et par suite entre deux coques 8) successives nécessite l'utilisation de linteaux 37 d'un type particulier. Un linteau de ce type, ainsi qu'illustré à la Fig. 7, présente à sa surface supérieure deux demi-surfaces d'appui 38 et 39 décalées, séparées par un échelon 40 dont la hauteur est égale à la différence de niveau entre deux coques 8 successives. Les extrémités de deux demi-poutres 41 et 42 (Fig. 5) viendront s'appuyer respectivement sur les demi-surfaces 38 et 39. Ces poutres 41 et 42 sont, par conséquent, décalées en hauteur l'une par rapport à l'autre. La solidarisation avec les colonnes verticales des demi-poutres 41, 42, se fait de la même manière que dans le cas d'un tunnel à assiette horizontale, ainsi que décrit plus haut. (Insertion d'une armature 15 dans l'espace vertical entre deux coques 8 successives, coulage d'une colonne verticale 20, solidarisation de chacune des demi-poutres 41 et 42 avec celle-ci). Ainsi que l'on peut le remarquer à la Fig. 5, la demi-poutre la plus haute 42 d'une paire de demi-poutres 41, 42 est à la même hauteur que la demi-poutre la plus basse 41 de la paire de demi-poutres 41, 42 suivante, une prédalle 18 s'appuyant par ses extrémités sur une demi-poutre 42 d'une paire de demi-poutres 41, 42 et sur la demi-poutre 41 de la paire suivante, sera donc sensiblement horizontale. Les travaux de parachèvement du tunnel (bétonnage de la dalle supérieure, étanchéité, recouvrement) sont ensuite effectués de la manière décrite plus haut.Likewise, the difference in level between two successive flanges 1 (and consequently between two shells 8) requires the use of lintels 37 of a particular type. A lintel of this type, as illustrated in FIG. 7, has at its upper surface two half-bearing surfaces 38 and 39 offset, separated by a rung 40 whose height is equal to the difference in level between two successive shells 8. The ends of two half-beams 41 and 42 (Fig. 5) will come to bear respectively on the half-surfaces 38 and 39. These beams 41 and 42 are, therefore, offset in height one relative to the other. The connection with the vertical columns of the half-beams 41, 42 is done in the same way as in the case of a tunnel with a horizontal attitude, as described above. (Inserting a frame 15 in the vertical space between two successive shells 8, pouring a vertical column 20, joining each of the half-beams 41 and 42 with it). As can be seen in FIG. 5, the highest half-beam 42 of a pair of half-beams 41, 42 is at the same height as the lowest half-beam 41 of the next pair of half-beams 41, 42, a pre-slab 18 pressing at its ends on a half-beam 42 of a pair of half-beams 41, 42 and on the half-beam 41 of the next pair, will therefore be substantially horizontal. The tunnel finishing work (concreting the upper slab, waterproofing, covering) is then carried out as described above.

La Fig. 8 illustre un exemple de tunnel en courbe, dans laquelle les éléments communs à toutes les formes de réalisation ont les mêmes chiffres de référence. Les phases de réalisation d'un tunnel en courbe sont les mêmes que précédemment.Fig. 8 illustrates an example of a curved tunnel, in which the elements common to all the embodiments have the same reference numbers. The construction phases of a curved tunnel are the same as before.

L'intervalle entre les semelles 1 de la rangée située à l'extérieur de la courbe est supérieur à l'intervalle entre les semelles 1 de la rangée située à l'intérieur de la courbe.The interval between the soles 1 of the row situated outside the curve is greater than the interval between the soles 1 of the row situated inside the curve.

Les semelles de liaison 43 coulées dans les intervalles de la rangée extérieure seront, par conséquent, plus larges que les semelles de liaison 44 coulées entre les semelles 1 de la rangée intérieure. L'intervalle entre deux coques 8 situées à l'extérieur de la courbe du tunnel est également plus grand que l'intervalle entre deux coques 8 intérieures. Par suite, comme le montre la Fig. 8, les plaques de fermeture extérieures 45 entre les coques 8 de la rangée située à l'extérieur de la courbe seront plus larges que les plaques de fermeture extérieures 46 entre les coques 8 de la rangée située à l'intérieur de la courbe. De même, les plaques de fermeture intérieures 47 de la rangée extérieure de coques 8 seront plus larges que les plaques de fermeture intérieures 48 de la rangée intérieure de coques 8.The connecting soles 43 cast in the intervals of the outer row will therefore be wider than the connecting soles 44 cast between the soles 1 of the inner row. The interval between two shells 8 situated outside the curve of the tunnel is also greater than the interval between two interior shells 8. As a result, as shown in FIG. 8, the outer closure plates 45 between the shells 8 of the row located outside the curve will be wider than the outer closure plates 46 between the shells 8 of the row located inside the curve. Likewise, the interior closure plates 47 of the exterior row of shells 8 will be wider than the interior closure plates 48 of the interior row of shells 8.

Par conséquent, les espaces verticaux entre coques successives 8 (et par suite les armatures 49 qui y sont insérées) de la rangée de coques 8 située à l'extérieur de la courbe, sont plus larges que les espaces verticaux (et donc les armatures 50 qui y sont insérées) de la rangée de coques 8 située à l'intérieur de la courbe. Cela nécessite évidemment le placement de linteaux 51 plus longs entre les coques 8 successives de la rangée extérieure de la courbe et le placement de linteaux 52 plus courts entre les coques 8 successives de la rangée intérieure de la courbe. De même, les poutres transversales (non illustrées) utilisées pour un tùnnel en alignement courbe seront plus larges à l'une de leurs extrémités ; elles seront déposées sur les linteaux 51, 52 de façon à ce que leur extrémité la plus large soit située du côté extérieur de la courbe.Consequently, the vertical spaces between successive shells 8 (and consequently the reinforcements 49 which are inserted therein) of the row of shells 8 situated outside the curve, are wider than the vertical spaces (and therefore the reinforcements 50 inserted therein) of the row of shells 8 located inside the curve. This obviously requires the placement of longer lintels 51 between the successive shells 8 of the outer row of the curve and the placement of shorter lintels 52 between the successive shells 8 of the inner row of the curve. Likewise, the transverse beams (not shown) used for a tunnel in curved alignment will be wider at one of their ends; they will be deposited on the lintels 51, 52 so that their widest end is located on the outside of the curve.

La Fig. 9 illustre un exemple de tunnel construit en milieu aquifère. Le tronçon illustré est en ligne droite, mais il va de soi que le procédé s'applique aussi bien à un tunnel en alignement courbe qu'à un tunnel dont l'assiette est en pente.Fig. 9 illustrates an example of a tunnel constructed in an aquifer. The section illustrated is in a straight line, but it goes without saying that the method applies as well to a tunnel in curved alignment as to a tunnel whose attitude is sloping.

Le tronçon de tunnel comprend alors des coques 53 dont la voûte 54 est munie d'ouvertures 55 mettant en communication l'intérieur de celle-ci avec le milieu environnant, et permettant par conséquent, le passage d'eau. La cavité de ces coques 53 est fermée sur toute la hauteur par une cloison verticale 56, munie d'un trou d'accès 57 (Fig. 10). L'intérieur de ces coques se remplit ainsi d'eau jusqu'à un niveau égal au niveau de la nappe.The tunnel section then comprises shells 53, the roof 54 of which is provided with openings 55 which put the interior of the latter in communication with the surrounding medium, and consequently allowing the passage of water. The cavity of these shells 53 is closed over the entire height by a vertical partition 56, provided with an access hole 57 (Fig. 10). The interior of these shells thus fills with water to a level equal to the level of the sheet.

Un tuyau 58 transversal situé en dessous du radier 21 et maintenu par des semelles de liaison 59 entre semelles préfabriquées 1, relie deux coques 53 de chaque côté du tunnel et se faisant face. Ce tuyau 58 est raccordé à la partie inférieure de chaque coque 53 par un orifice 60 et permet le passage de la nappe souterraine ét l'établissement de l'équilibre des niveaux de celle-ci de chaque côté du tunnel.A transverse pipe 58 located below the raft 21 and held by connecting flanges 59 between prefabricated flanges 1, connects two shells 53 on each side of the tunnel and facing each other. This pipe 58 is connected to the lower part of each hull 53 by an orifice 60 and allows the passage of the underground water table and the establishment of the equilibrium of the levels thereof on each side of the tunnel.

Il est évident que cette forme d'exécution nécessite l'utilisation de joints d'étanchéité de type connu, non représentés sur les figures. Ces joints sont placés notamment entre les bases en demi-lune inférieures des coques verticales 8, 53 et le radier 21, d'une part, et les bases en demi-lune supérieures des coques verticales 8, 53 et les prédalles supérieures 18, d'autre part.It is obvious that this embodiment requires the use of seals of known type, not shown in the figures. These joints are placed in particular between the lower half-moon bases of the vertical shells 8, 53 and the slab 21, on the one hand, and the upper half-moon bases of the vertical shells 8, 53 and the upper slabs 18, d 'somewhere else.

Le procédé suivant l'invention n'est pas limité à la réalisation de tunnels simples, comme ceux décrits plus haut, et dont un exemple est illustré en coupe à la Fig. 11, permettant la circulation suivant deux voies parallèles, mais se prête également à la réalisation de tunnels de plus grande largeur, par exemple, un tunnel de largeur double, tel qu'illustré en coupe à la Fig. 12. Ce tunnel comprend des semelles intermédiaires 61 disposées suivant l'axe médian du tunnel, entre les semelles 1 d'une paire de semelles. Ces semelles intermédiaires 61 supportent des colonnes intermédiaires 62. Chacune de ces colonnes 62 supporte les extrémités intérieures de deux poutres supérieures 63 perpendiculaires à l'axe du tunnel dont les extrémités extérieures sont supportées par des linteaux et bétonnées à des colonnes verticales (non représentés) de la manière décrite plus haut. Les poutres 63 sont solidarisées entre elles et avec la colonne 62 qui les supporte, l'ensemble ainsi obtenu formant un portique double, supporté par les semelles 1 et la semelle intermédiaire 61.The method according to the invention is not limited to the production of simple tunnels, such as those described above, and an example of which is illustrated in section in FIG. 11, allowing circulation along two parallel lanes, but also lends itself to the production of tunnels of greater width, for example, a tunnel of double width, as illustrated in section in FIG. 12. This tunnel comprises intermediate soles 61 arranged along the median axis of the tunnel, between the soles 1 of a pair of soles. These intermediate flanges 61 support intermediate columns 62. Each of these columns 62 supports the inner ends of two upper beams 63 perpendicular to the axis of the tunnel, the outer ends of which are supported by lintels and concreted with columns vertical (not shown) as described above. The beams 63 are joined together and with the column 62 which supports them, the assembly thus obtained forming a double gantry, supported by the flanges 1 and the intermediate sole 61.

La Fig. 13 représente une forme d'exécution particulière de tunnel double, utilisant des poutres supérieures 64 de plus grande longueur, ce qui permet l'aménagement d'un quai de débarquement central 65, entre les voies de circulation.Fig. 13 shows a particular embodiment of a double tunnel, using upper beams 64 of greater length, which allows the development of a central landing platform 65, between the traffic lanes.

Il va de soi que la largeur du tunnel peut être augmentée à souhait, selon les besoins, grâce à la multiplication des éléments intermédiaires (semelles, colonnes 62, poutres supérieures, etc.). Le procédé suivant l'invention se prête également à la réalisation de tronçons de tunnel intermédiaires, pour joindre, par exemple, un tronçon de tunnel simple (de ligne) à un tronçon de tunnel double (de gare), en passant par des largeurs intermédiaires.It goes without saying that the width of the tunnel can be increased as desired, as required, thanks to the multiplication of intermediate elements (footings, columns 62, upper beams, etc.). The method according to the invention also lends itself to the production of intermediate tunnel sections, for joining, for example, a single tunnel section (line) to a double tunnel section (station), passing through intermediate widths .

La Fig. 14 montre une coupe suivant un plan horizontal, à mi-hauteur, d'une forme de réalisation avantageuse d'une coque 8 constituant une partie de la paroi verticale d'un tunnel réalisé suivant l'invention. La face tournée vers l'extérieur du tunnel 66 du côté opposé à la voûte 9 est plane et se raccorde perpendiculairement aux faces latérales 14, pratiquement planes de la coque 8.Fig. 14 shows a section along a horizontal plane, halfway up, of an advantageous embodiment of a shell 8 constituting a part of the vertical wall of a tunnel produced according to the invention. The face turned towards the outside of the tunnel 66 on the side opposite to the vault 9 is flat and is connected perpendicular to the lateral faces 14, which are practically flat of the shell 8.

Des rainures 25, 26 s'étendant longitudinalement sur ces faces extérieures 14 de ces pans longitudinaux 10, permettent d'y insérer les bords latéraux des plaques de coffrage 12,13. Ces faces extérieures sont, en outre, avantageusement dotées de cannelures 66 propres à améliorer la solidarisation de ces éléments et des colonnes en béton armé entre lesquels ils sont placés.Grooves 25, 26 extending longitudinally on these external faces 14 of these longitudinal sections 10, allow the lateral edges of the formwork plates 12, 13 to be inserted therein. These outer faces are, moreover, advantageously provided with grooves 66 capable of improving the joining of these elements and of the reinforced concrete columns between which they are placed.

Des évidements 68 sont ménagés entre la voûte 9 et la face arrière plane 66 de façon à conserver aux coques ainsi réalisées leur légèreté. Ces évidements 68 sont réalisés suivant un procédé connu, tel que l'insertion dans les moules de noyaux de polystyrène.Recesses 68 are formed between the arch 9 and the flat rear face 66 so as to keep the shells thus produced their lightness. These recesses 68 are produced according to a known method, such as inserting polystyrene cores into the molds.

Ce mode de réalisation permet de renforcer la rigidité de la structure d'un élément.This embodiment makes it possible to reinforce the rigidity of the structure of an element.

Bien entendu, l'invention n'est pas limitée aux détails d'exécution décrits plus haut auxquels de nombreux changements et modifications peuvent être apportés sans sortir de son cadre revendiqué dans les revendications.Of course, the invention is not limited to the execution details described above to which numerous changes and modifications can be made without departing from the scope claimed in the claims.

Claims (11)

1. Method for driving a tunnel by means of prefabricated concrete elements which are mutually fixed together by concreting after being put in place, characterized in that it comprises the following phases :
- frontal excavation of the cut,
- placing and adjustment of reinforced concrete sills (1) having a generally rectangular shape and possessing an upper bearing surface (2), a space being left between successive sills (1), each sill (1) being arranged in a manner such as to be at the bottom of the vertical walls of the tunnel to be constructed,
- connecting the successive sills (1) by casting connecting sills (4), thus forming a continuous footing (5) along each edge of the tunnel,
- placing on each continuous footing (5) vertical reinforced concrete elements partially forming the lateral walls of the tunnel, a gap being left between successive vertical elements of the same row, and each vertical element being arranged in alignment with a similar element on the other side of the tunnel to be constructed,
- positioning, in each of the gaps between successive vertical elements of each row, two vertical shuttering plates (12, 13) which are at a distance apart and parallel to the axis of the tunnel, these two plates (12,13) forming, with part of the outer surface of two successive vertical elements, a shuttering for the casting of a reinforced concrete column (20),
- introduction of a concrete reinforcement (15) into the said shuttering,
- placing of lintels (16) parallel to the axis of the tunnel close to the upper edge of the shuttering plate (13) situated on the interior side of the tunnel to be constructed, in a manner such that the ends of each lintel (16) bear on two successive vertical elements, each lintel (16) being arranged in alignment with a lintel (16) situated on the other side of the tunnel to be constructed,
- casting-in-place of a concrete floor (21) between the two continuous footings (5),
- placing of upper cross-beams (17) in alignment with the shutterings between successive vertical elements, in a manner such that the ends of each beam (17) bear on two lintels (16) arranged in alignment with one another,
- casting of concrete in the shutterings between successive vertical elements and fixing of each beam (17) to the reinforced concrete columns (20) thus formed and situated in alignment with one another,
- filling the space behind the lateral walls of the tunnel,
- placing and fixing upper pre-slabs (18) of reinforced concrete on the beams (17), in a manner such that the front edge of each pre-slab (18) bears on a beam (17) and its rear edge on the subsequent beam (17), relative to the direction of advance of the working,
- concreting of the upper slab (19) and blinding of the tunnel, and
- backfilling and covering of the tunnel.
2. Method according to Claim 1, characterized in that the successive phases of driving the tunnel are carried out in order along the working, from the driving face where the cutting and frontal excavation of the cut are taking place to the finishing zone where the back-filling and covering of the finished tunnel are taking place.
3. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the said vertical elements are oblong shells (8) of reinforced concrete possessing a cylindrical curvature (9) whose generatrix is parallel to the long axis of the shells (8), the shells (8) being closed at each of their ends by a semi-circular base (11), perpendicular to the long axis, the shells being arranged in a manner such that their concavity faces towards the inside of the tunnel and their curvature (9) faces towards the walls of the trench.
4. Method according to Claim 3, characterized in that the said shells (8) possess two plane and parallel longitudinal side pieces which extend the curvature (9) on each side of the latter.
5.'Method according to any one of Claims 3 and 4, characterized in that the vertical reinforced concrete elements forming the lateral walls of the tunnel are shells whose outer-facing surface is substantially plane and is joined at right angles to the lateral surfaces of the said elements.
6. Method according to any one of Claims 3, 4 and 5, characterized in that the shells (8) possess, on the outer surface (14) of each of the plane longitudinal side pieces (10), two grooves (25, 26) parallel to the long axis of the shells and capable of receiving the lateral edges of the two shuttering plates (12, 13).
7. Method according to Claim 6, characterized in that the grooves (26) situated close to the free edge of the plane longitudinal side pieces (10) are widened in their upper part in a manner such as to form, close to the level which will be occupied by the upper edge of the shuttering plate (13) situated on the inner side of the tunnel, shoulders (27) on which the end of the lintel (16) is seated.
8. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the reinforced concrete sills (1) and the connecting sills (4) ensuring the continuity between the said sills (1) are provided, on their upper bearing surface (2, 6) with a rebate (3, 7) parallel to the axis of the tunnel and facing the interior of the tunnel.
9. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the assembly of a beam (17), of the two reinforced concrete columns (20) supporting each of the ends of this upper beam (17) and the sills (1) supporting each of these reinforced concrete columns (20) forms a frame capable of absorbing the vertical pressures exerted by the earth and road bed above, as well as the horizontal thrust pressure of the earth.
10. Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the vertical reinforced concrete elements forming the lateral walls of the tunnel are thin cast shells (8) possessing a curvature (9) and capable of absorbing the horizontal load of the thrust of the earth.
11. Tunnel driven by the method according to any one of Claims 1 to 10.
EP19860870032 1985-03-12 1986-03-12 Method for driving a tunnel Expired EP0197021B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR8503619A FR2578904B1 (en) 1985-03-12 1985-03-12 PROCESS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF A TUNNEL
FR8503619 1985-03-12

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0197021A1 EP0197021A1 (en) 1986-10-08
EP0197021B1 true EP0197021B1 (en) 1988-10-19

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EP19860870032 Expired EP0197021B1 (en) 1985-03-12 1986-03-12 Method for driving a tunnel

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DE (2) DE3660969D1 (en)
FR (1) FR2578904B1 (en)

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US4880334A (en) * 1988-04-11 1989-11-14 Finic, B.V. Tunnel construction apparatus and method
ES2052433B1 (en) * 1992-02-13 1998-02-16 Codelfa Prefabbricati S P A SYSTEM FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF ARTIFICIAL GALLERIES WITH PREFABRICATED CONCRETE ELEMENTS.
IT1281032B1 (en) * 1995-11-17 1998-02-11 Carlo Chiaves STRUCTURE OF AN UNDERGROUND WORKS, PARTICULARLY FOR THE RELIABATION OF TUNNELS, SUBWAYS, GARAGES OR SIMILAR, ITS PROCEDURE OF
FR2843977B1 (en) * 2002-08-28 2005-03-11 Conseil Service Investissement METHOD FOR PRODUCING A PLATFORM BENDING A TRENCH USING PREFABRICATED LENGTHS
NO335669B1 (en) 2011-06-21 2015-01-19 Stabinor As Process for the preparation of a tunnel run, and structural element of concrete for use in the manufacture of tunnel sections for such a tunnel run.
CN112049032B (en) * 2020-07-27 2022-05-17 成龙建设集团有限公司 Method for reinforcing municipal highway door opening
CN112576259B (en) * 2020-12-14 2022-04-15 中铁二院工程集团有限责任公司 Main body auxiliary construction method and structure for station by arch cover method
CN112576260B (en) * 2020-12-14 2022-04-22 中铁二院工程集团有限责任公司 Arch cover method tunnel entering construction method and arch cover method tunnel entering supporting structure
CN114017079B (en) * 2021-10-29 2023-10-13 国能神东煤炭集团有限责任公司 Roadway support device for underground gob-side entry driving of coal mine

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US1746566A (en) * 1927-08-31 1930-02-11 Robert B Tufts Sewer construction
FR685548A (en) * 1928-11-29 1930-07-11 reinforced concrete elements for the construction of conduits, shafts, mine galleries, etc.
DE519036C (en) * 1928-11-30 1931-02-23 Ernst Arnold Reinforced concrete slab for building walls in shafts, tunnels, etc. like
FR2082092A5 (en) * 1970-03-03 1971-12-10 Gtmtp
CH547400A (en) * 1971-02-22 1974-03-29 Sbaraglia Goffredo DEVICE CONSISTING OF PREFABRICATED ELEMENTS AMONG THEM COMPONIBLE FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF PEDESTRIAN UNDERPASSES.
FR2223513A1 (en) * 1973-03-30 1974-10-25 Socea Tunnel made from prefabricated sections - has roof slab supported on shoulders extending from upper face of walls

Also Published As

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DE3660969D1 (en) 1988-11-24
DE197021T1 (en) 1987-01-15
EP0197021A1 (en) 1986-10-08
FR2578904A1 (en) 1986-09-19
FR2578904B1 (en) 1987-07-03

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