EP3066303B1 - Cutting tool holder for a tunnel-boring machine and associated cutting assembly - Google Patents

Cutting tool holder for a tunnel-boring machine and associated cutting assembly Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3066303B1
EP3066303B1 EP14799127.7A EP14799127A EP3066303B1 EP 3066303 B1 EP3066303 B1 EP 3066303B1 EP 14799127 A EP14799127 A EP 14799127A EP 3066303 B1 EP3066303 B1 EP 3066303B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
housing
clamping
roller cutter
wheel
wedges
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP14799127.7A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3066303A2 (en
Inventor
Philippe LIOTARD
Patrice Robert
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Bouygues Travaux Publics SAS
Original Assignee
Bouygues Travaux Publics SAS
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Publication of EP3066303A2 publication Critical patent/EP3066303A2/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP3066303B1 publication Critical patent/EP3066303B1/en
Priority to HRP20210730TT priority Critical patent/HRP20210730T1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

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Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21D—SHAFTS; TUNNELS; GALLERIES; LARGE UNDERGROUND CHAMBERS
    • E21D9/00—Tunnels or galleries, with or without linings; Methods or apparatus for making thereof; Layout of tunnels or galleries
    • E21D9/10—Making by using boring or cutting machines
    • E21D9/1006—Making by using boring or cutting machines with rotary cutting tools
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21D—SHAFTS; TUNNELS; GALLERIES; LARGE UNDERGROUND CHAMBERS
    • E21D9/00—Tunnels or galleries, with or without linings; Methods or apparatus for making thereof; Layout of tunnels or galleries
    • E21D9/10—Making by using boring or cutting machines
    • E21D9/1006—Making by using boring or cutting machines with rotary cutting tools
    • E21D9/104—Cutting tool fixtures
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21D—SHAFTS; TUNNELS; GALLERIES; LARGE UNDERGROUND CHAMBERS
    • E21D13/00—Large underground chambers; Methods or apparatus for making them
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21D—SHAFTS; TUNNELS; GALLERIES; LARGE UNDERGROUND CHAMBERS
    • E21D9/00—Tunnels or galleries, with or without linings; Methods or apparatus for making thereof; Layout of tunnels or galleries
    • E21D9/10—Making by using boring or cutting machines
    • E21D9/11—Making by using boring or cutting machines with a rotary drilling-head cutting simultaneously the whole cross-section, i.e. full-face machines
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21B—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; OBTAINING OIL, GAS, WATER, SOLUBLE OR MELTABLE MATERIALS OR A SLURRY OF MINERALS FROM WELLS
    • E21B10/00—Drill bits
    • E21B10/08—Roller bits
    • E21B10/20—Roller bits characterised by detachable or adjustable parts, e.g. legs or axles
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E21—EARTH OR ROCK DRILLING; MINING
    • E21D—SHAFTS; TUNNELS; GALLERIES; LARGE UNDERGROUND CHAMBERS
    • E21D9/00—Tunnels or galleries, with or without linings; Methods or apparatus for making thereof; Layout of tunnels or galleries
    • E21D9/10—Making by using boring or cutting machines

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a cutting assembly for a tunnel boring machine comprising a tunnel boring wheel, a method for replacing a tunnel boring wheel on the cutting head of a tunnel boring machine suitable for such a tool holder as well as a handling device. of the dial.
  • tunnel digging machines or tunnel boring machines, which include a large mobile structure called a shield, having a substantially circular section, the diameter of which corresponds to the diameter of the tunnel which is being excavated.
  • a wheel, or cutting disc is a cutting tool that rotates freely on a shaft secured to the cutting head of a tunnel boring machine. During the rotation of the head and under the action of the thrust, the wheel rolls on the cutting face and punches the rock in the form of chipped plates.
  • the cutting head thus comprises a plurality of wheels distributed regularly over its surface.
  • the wheels are conventionally fixed in a cutting tool holder on the cutting head by means of bolted shims.
  • the cutting tool holder comprises a housing, adapted to be fixed on the shield of the tunnel boring machine and defining a chamber arranged to house the wheel.
  • Clamp brackets are attached to or formed with outer faces of the thumb wheel and include two locking surfaces adapted to engage a manual locking system.
  • This locking system comprises in particular shims, adapted to engage between indentations of the housing and the locking surfaces of the clamping supports. These wedges are fixed in position in the indentations using several screws, bolts, etc. in order to prevent the dials from dislodging from the housing, despite the harsh environment of use of the dial.
  • the wheel change procedure frequently requires exerting significant efforts to detach the used wheel from its housing, due to jamming and the lack of guidance of the wheel, which is hardly compatible with work in hyperbaric conditions.
  • the procedure for changing a wheel consists of fitting the wheel with lifting rings, lifting it using a hoist sliding along a rail, loading it on a trolley crossing the material airlock and bring it back to the rear under the shield, at atmospheric pressure.
  • it is also necessary to collect as you go all the elements (shims, screws, bolts, etc.) necessary for the fixing of the wheel and which will be reused for the assembly of the new wheel.
  • a new wheel comprising a locking member adapted to be immobilized in the housing, so that the wheel constitutes a rigid block with a view to its handling, and means for preloading the wheel which may include screws carried integrally with the knob.
  • the locking member comprises a bayonet adapted to cooperate with an imprint of the housing and movable in rotation between a position of insertion of the wheel in the housing and a locking position of the wheel in the housing .
  • the wheel in use, is subjected to very high pressure and vibration stresses which risk dislodging the bayonet. It is in fact difficult to apply a pre-stress force sufficient to withstand the vibrations of the wheel in hard terrain.
  • An object of the present invention is therefore to provide a cutting tool holder and a cutting assembly for a tunnel boring machine comprising a tunnel boring wheel and an associated cutting tool holder, capable of withstanding the very severe environment of the wheels, in particular the high pressure and the vibrations generated by the rolling of the wheel on the cutting edge, and which also makes it possible to reduce, or even eliminate, any human intervention when replacing a wheel.
  • Another object of the invention is to provide a method for replacing a wheel of such a cutting assembly, as well as a device for handling the wheel suitable for the implementation of this method, in particular by allowing d '' avoid any loss of parts.
  • the handling device of the cutting assembly itself should be easy to clean and free from areas of water or mud retention.
  • this device must be able to be used in existing cutting heads, preferably without requiring significant modifications thereof.
  • the invention also provides a cutting assembly for a tunnel boring machine, comprising a wheel, fixed in a cutting tool holder as described above.
  • a cutting assembly 5 comprises a cutting tool holder 1 for a tunnel boring machine and a wheel 10, housed in the tool holder 1.
  • a wheel 10 has, in a manner known per se, the general shape of a disc comprising two side faces 12 connected by a substantially circular edge 14. During the rotation of the head of the tunnel boring machine and under the action of the thrust, the edge 14 of the wheel 10 rolls on the cutting face, punches the rock and forms chipped plates.
  • the wheel 10 is mounted in a tool holder 1 so as to be freely movable in rotation about its axis X of rotation.
  • the tool holder 1 comprises a housing 2, adapted to be fixed on a shield of the tunnel boring machine and two clamping assemblies 3 mounted on either side of the wheel 10 removably in the housing 2 in order to clamp the wheel 10 in said housing 2.
  • the housing 2 comprises side walls 20 connected by a front face 22 and a rear face 24 and together defining a chamber 21 adapted to receive a wheel 10.
  • the front face 22 is defined as being the face from which the wheel 10 opens, towards the cutting edge, while the rear face 24 of the housing 2 is the opposite face, through which the wheel 10 is inserted.
  • the housing comprises two indentations 26 formed in opposite side walls 20, configured to face the side faces 12 of the wheel 10 when the wheel 10 is introduced into the chamber 21 of the housing. These two opposite side walls 20 are also crossed by the drive shaft (not visible in the figures) of said wheel 10 in order to allow it to rotate relative to the housing 2.
  • Each clamping assembly 3 comprises a base 32, configured to be mounted on the wheel 10 in the housing 2 while leaving it free to rotate around its axis of rotation X, a central wedge 34, movably mounted on the base 32 , and two lateral wedges 36.
  • the lateral wedges 36 are articulated between the base 32 and the central wedge 34 between a retracted position, in which the lateral wedges 36 retract, and a clamping position, in which the lateral wedges 36 tilt transversely and engage in the recess 26 facing the housing 2 in order to prevent the extraction of the clamping assembly 3 from the housing 2.
  • the lateral wedges 36 are pivotally mounted on the base 3 about an axis Y substantially parallel to the axis X of rotation of the wheel 10.
  • the wedges side 36 are therefore integral with the base 32 at all times.
  • the different elements are mechanically linked, that is to say that they can have relative movements with respect to each other but that they remain mechanically connected to each other without the natural possibility of separation.
  • all the parts forming the clamping assembly 3 are integral with one another, directly or indirectly, in order to allow the handling of the clamping assembly 3 by an automated handling device.
  • the parts forming the clamping assembly 3 are captive, which clearly simplifies the implementation of such a handling device.
  • the base 32 can be fixed on the lateral face 12 of the wheel 10 using screws. Furthermore, the central wedge 34 is movable in translation relative to the base 32 and is adapted to move the lateral wedges 36 between their retracted position and their clamping position according to a kinematics adapted to ensure the locking of the wheel 10 in the box 2, and vice versa.
  • each clamping assembly 3 in order to move the lateral wedges 36 between their retracted position and their clamping position, each clamping assembly 3 comprises an actuating pin 37, fixed integrally on each lateral wedge 36 and housed in a guide groove 35 formed in the central wedge 34 so as to be movable along said guide groove 35.
  • the actuating pins 37 can be formed integrally with the corresponding lateral wedge 36.
  • the guide grooves 35 are curved in order to each define two cam surfaces for the corresponding actuating pin 37.
  • the central wedge 34 is moved towards the base 32 which moves the actuating pins 37 along a first wall of the guide grooves 35, preferably along an arc of a circle centered on the Y axis.
  • side 36 then tilt transversely in order to engage in the recess 26 facing the housing, and thus prevent the extraction of the clamping assembly 3 from the housing 2.
  • the central wedge 34 is moved away from the base 32 which moves the actuating pins 37 along a second wall of the guide grooves 35, preferably following an arc of a circle centered on the Y axis.
  • the lateral wedges 36 are retracted, then approaching one another and come out of the recess 26, thus freeing the clamping assembly 3, and therefore the thumbwheel 10, from housing 2.
  • the side wedges 36 and the central wedge 34 of each clamping assembly 3 comprise associated bearing faces 36a, 34a, configured to engage each other when the side wedges 36 are in the clamping position.
  • the bearing faces 36a, 34a of the lateral wedges 36 and of the central wedge 34 are shaped and oriented so as to withstand the forces passing through the clamping assemblies 3, forming a stable state for said clamping assembly 3.
  • stable state it will be understood here that the bearing faces 34a, 36a remain in contact despite the strong vibrations and the significant pressure undergone by the cutting assembly 5, and only disengage by application of a force on the actuator 38 in order to retract the side wedges 36.
  • the invention also covers the case of an equivalent clamping assembly 3, in which the lateral wedges 36 are mounted integrally and freely in rotation on the central wedge 34, while the guide grooves 35 forming the cam surfaces are formed in the base 32.
  • the translation of the central wedge 34 then causes the movement of the actuating pins 37 along the guide grooves 35, preferably along arcs of a circle centered on the Y axis , and therefore the rotation of the lateral wedges 36 relative to the central wedge 34 between their retracted position and their clamping position.
  • the clamping assembly 3 further comprises an actuator 38, mounted on the base 32 and the central wedge 34.
  • the actuator may comprise a threaded stud 39 anchored in the base 32, at the free end of which an actuating nut 38 is screwed, here a flanged nut.
  • the nut 39 is also mounted on the central wedge 34 so as to be integral in translation with the latter.
  • the screwing / unscrewing of the nut 38 on the threaded stud 39 then causes the displacement of the nut 38 along the threaded stud 39 and therefore that of the central wedge 34 relative to the base 32.
  • the torque tightening on the nut 38 makes it possible to apply a sufficient force to the side wedges 36 to block the wheel 10 with respect to the housing 2 during its digging work, despite the severe environment suffered by the cutting assembly 5.
  • This exemplary embodiment of the actuator 38 is not limiting, other types of actuators 38 capable of controlling the translation of the central wedge 34 relative to the base 32 while ensuring that it is held in position at the end of stroke of the wheel 10 can be considered. It may, for example, be a hydraulic cylinder.
  • the housing 2 further comprises a lateral wedging system 40 adapted to adjust the wedging of the wheel 10 and of the clamping assemblies 3 in the housing 2 along the X axis of rotation of the wheel 10.
  • This wedging system side 40 comprises a box 42, attached to one of the side walls 20 of the box 2 and comprising a housing in which are housed two corners 44, 46 connected together in the manner of a dovetail.
  • a first 44 of the corners is fixed to the side wall 20 of the housing 2, and therefore stationary with respect to the latter, while the second corner 46 is able to slide on a surface 45 of the first corner 44, which forms a surface of cam.
  • the dimensions of the corners 44, 46 are such that the second corner 46 is blocked in a direction perpendicular to the side wall 20, but movable in a direction of translation T substantially parallel to the latter.
  • a screw 48, extending in the direction of translation T, is also fixed on the second corner 46.
  • the screwing of the screw 48 causes the displacement of the second corner 46 towards a working position of the corner, in which the corners 44, 46 apply a force perpendicularly to the side wall 20 of the housing 2, and a retracted position, in which the corners 44, 46 are at rest.
  • the screw 48 could be replaced by a support finger provided with a spring.
  • the housing 2 of the cutting assembly 5 can further be configured to allow the clamping of the wheel 10 using a conventional manual locking system.
  • the housing 2 may comprise, in the internal face of the opposite side walls 20 in which the indentations 26 are formed, two additional indentations 28.
  • the additional indentations 28 are preferably formed between the indentations 26 intended to receive the lateral wedges. 36 of the clamping assemblies 3 and the front face 22.
  • each additional cavity 28 is adapted to accommodate a lateral wedge additional 40 of the manual locking system, separate from the clamping assemblies 3.
  • the additional side wedges 36 are then held in engagement in the additional indentations 28 using an additional central wedge 42, screwed onto a conventional clamping support, itself fixed to the side face 12 of the wheel 10.
  • the cutting tool holder 1 therefore makes it possible, without modifying the wheel 10, to clamp in a simple, rapid, inexpensive and automated manner, a wheel 10. If necessary, the housing of the tool holder 1 can also allow the clamping by conventional systems of the wheel 10.
  • each wheel 10 When the tunnel boring machine is put into service, each wheel 10 is installed in its housing 2 while being subjected to a prestress applied to the side wedges 36 by the actuator 38 which allows it to withstand the forces it undergoes in operation (c that is, during slaughter).
  • the reaction of this stress comes from the lateral faces of the base 32 thus creating a looping of the forces which allow the perfect immobilization of the wheel 10 under loads and during the relaxation of the cutting forces (rebound).
  • the variation of the force in the studs 38 remains much lower than their preload value which guarantees the absence of loosening.
  • the housing 2 is itself fixed to the cutting head, typically by welding.
  • the replacement process S comprises a first step S1 of extracting the used wheel 10 from the housing 2, and a second step S1 of placing in the housing 2 a replacement wheel 10.
  • the extraction S1 of the used wheel 10 and the installation of the replacement wheel 10 S2 can be carried out automatically, using a suitable handling device.
  • the different parts of the clamping assembly 3 are integral with each other and therefore captive.
  • This embodiment is particularly advantageous in the case of tunnel boring machines with a confined front, since the working environment is in hyperbaric conditions. In such tunnel boring machines, the change of wheel 10 is carried out, for safety reasons, from the rear of the cutting head, that is to say from the side of the cutting head opposite to the cutting front.
  • the steps of extraction S1 and of placing S2 can be done in whole or in part manually.
  • each clamping assembly 3 comprises, as illustrated in the figures 4a and 4b , two lateral wedges 36, mounted for rotation on the base 32, can be actuated by translation of the central wedge 34 by the actuator 38.
  • lateral wedges 36 could be mounted for rotation on the central wedge 34, the movement of which does not necessarily follow a translational movement, and / or the actuator 38 could comprise other bodies as a stud 39 and a sleeve 38.
  • the clamping and unclamping mechanism can then be actuated by simply screwing or unscrewing the actuators 38 of the clamping assemblies 3, which makes the implementation of the method particularly suitable for the use of an automatic handling device.
  • a device for handling the wheel 10 is brought to the housing 2, by the rear face 24 of the cutting head (that is to say the face opposite the cutting front), and fixed to the housing 2 to allow the extraction of the knob 10.
  • the handling device and the housing 2 may have respective housings which cooperate to allow the guidance and docking of the handling device on the housing 2.
  • the handling device can be brought in semi-automatically by means of a hoist or else in a fully automated manner, thanks to a handling robot.
  • locking elements of the handling device or of the carrying robot can be actuated to ensure the locking of the device on the housing 2.
  • These locking elements can comprise retaining pins movable by a quarter turn arranged on the handling device for retaining suitable housings provided on the housing 2.
  • the handling device grasps the clamping assemblies 3 and / or the wheel 10.
  • the handling device may comprise a gripping element arranged to grip the wheel 10 and index it all securely.
  • the gripping element could grip and index the clamp assemblies 3.
  • the wheel 10 is still housed in the housing 2 and clamped therein.
  • Control devices can then dock the box 2 and then operate S13 the clamping assemblies 3 in order to move the side wedges 36 from their clamping position to their retracted position by them. bringing together thanks to the actuators 8.
  • the wheel 10 and the clamping assemblies 3 are then disengaged from the housing 2 and can be extracted S14 by an ejection effect generated by the end of the maneuvering movement of the clamping assemblies 3.
  • This principle does not is not limiting, the ejection movement can also come from an additional actuator.
  • This ejection movement can in particular be generated either by a bearing reaction on the structure of the cutting head integral with the housing 2, or on the housing 2, or by the device supporting the handling device.
  • the wheel 10 can be handled for its extraction S13, all the elements integral with the wheel 10 must preferably be stationary with respect to one another to form a rigid block.
  • the clamping assemblies 3 can be put under stress in such a way that the parts of the clamping assemblies 3 become stationary with respect to each other, for example by keeping the actuator 38 in position relative to the base. 30 while the side wedges 36 are in the retracted position.
  • the device for handling the wheel 10 therefore comprises extraction elements (for example jacks or vibrators) which make it possible to exert the necessary extraction and detachment force. If necessary, the arching can be reduced by forming relief faces in the side walls 20 and the faces 21, 24 of the housing 2 in the path of the wheel 10 during its extraction movement.
  • extraction elements for example jacks or vibrators
  • the handling device can be removed S15 and the assembly comprising the clamping assemblies 3 and the wheel 10 can be taken to the workshop where the used wheel 10 is removed.
  • cleaning sub-phases for example by jets water at high pressure, can be implemented so as to be able to ensure the cleanliness of the bearing faces of the tool holder 1 when receiving the new wheel 10.
  • the handling device can be cleaned before it is reused to fit a new wheel 10.
  • the placement S2 of a replacement wheel 10 in the housing 2 can be implemented during the following steps.
  • the clamping assemblies 3 are fixed on the wheel 10, for example by screwing the base 32 on the lateral faces 12 of the wheel 10.
  • the handling device can then grip S21 the wheel 10 with the gripping element of the handling device mentioned above.
  • the different parts of the clamping assemblies 3 are preferably made stationary with respect to one another so that they constitute a rigid block. Furthermore, the side wedges 36 are brought into the retracted position, so as not to hinder the introduction of the wheel 10 into the housing 2.
  • the handling device supporting the wheel 10 and the clamping assemblies 3 is then brought opposite the rear face 24 of the housing 2.
  • the handling device is clamped S22 on the latter by its locking elements.
  • the gripping element of the handling device is then advanced S23 to insert the wheel 10 provided with the clamping assemblies 3 in the chamber 21 of the housing 2 until it comes into abutment against the front face 22 of the housing.
  • the wheel 10 is automatically centered in relation to it.
  • the shape of the housings can furthermore be provided to provide bearing surfaces for the ends of the shaft of the wheel 10 in the front part of the housing 2.
  • the housing 2 can further comprise means 30 forming a stopper. arranged in an area adjacent to the front face 12, adapted to limit the travel of the wheel 10 in the housing 2 during its insertion S23.
  • the means 30 forming a stopper comprise two screws, fixed in the opposite side walls 20 of the housing 2 in which the indentations 26 are formed, in the vicinity of the front face 12. The screws 30 are configured to form a stopper and enter. in contact with the bases 32 when the wheel ù10 is inserted S23 in the housing 32, which ensures that the wheel 10 is not too far forward with respect to the front face 12 of the housing and that the side wedges 36 are properly located next to their corresponding imprint 26.
  • the stop-forming means 30 can be retracted slightly so as not to remain in contact with said means 30 when the cutting assembly 5 is in operation, and d 'avoid generating forces liable to interfere with the pre-stress applied by the clamping assemblies 3 in the clamping position.
  • this slight decline can be generated by the profile of the supports of the means 30 forming a stop on the bases 32.
  • Control devices can then approach the housing 2 and then maneuver the clamping assemblies 3 in order to move the lateral wedges 36 from their retracted position to their clamping position S24 by causing them to tilt transversely by means of the actuators 8.
  • a force of rotation is applied to the nut 38, in order to bring it to the end of its travel and to engage the lateral wedges 36 in the recess 26 facing the housing 2.
  • the tightening torque applied by the to the 'nut 38 in the clamping position is sufficient for the side shims 36 apply a pre-stress to the housing 2 capable of withstanding severe vibrations, even in hard terrain.
  • the wheel 10 and the clamping assemblies 3 are then engaged in the housing 2 and held firmly in this position.
  • the handling device (control devices, gripping element and locking elements) is then detached.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mining & Mineral Resources (AREA)
  • Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • General Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
  • Geochemistry & Mineralogy (AREA)
  • Geology (AREA)
  • Environmental & Geological Engineering (AREA)
  • Excavating Of Shafts Or Tunnels (AREA)
  • Earth Drilling (AREA)
  • Cutting Tools, Boring Holders, And Turrets (AREA)
  • Details Of Cutting Devices (AREA)

Description

DOMAINE DE L'INVENTIONFIELD OF THE INVENTION

L'invention concerne un ensemble de coupe pour un tunnelier comprenant une molette de tunnelier, un procédé de remplacement d'une molette de tunnelier sur la tête de coupe d'un tunnelier adapté à un tel porte-outil ainsi qu'un dispositif de manipulation de la molette.The invention relates to a cutting assembly for a tunnel boring machine comprising a tunnel boring wheel, a method for replacing a tunnel boring wheel on the cutting head of a tunnel boring machine suitable for such a tool holder as well as a handling device. of the dial.

ARRIERE-PLAN TECHNOLOGIQUETECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

On connaît des machines de creusement de tunnel, ou tunneliers, qui comprennent une structure mobile de grandes dimensions appelée bouclier, ayant une section sensiblement circulaire dont le diamètre correspond au diamètre du tunnel dont on réalise le creusement.There are known tunnel digging machines, or tunnel boring machines, which include a large mobile structure called a shield, having a substantially circular section, the diameter of which corresponds to the diameter of the tunnel which is being excavated.

Une molette, ou disque de coupe, est un outil de coupe tournant librement sur un arbre solidaire de la tête de coupe d'un tunnelier. Au cours de la rotation de la tête et sous l'action de la poussée, la molette roule sur le front de coupe et poinçonne la roche sous forme de plaques écaillées.A wheel, or cutting disc, is a cutting tool that rotates freely on a shaft secured to the cutting head of a tunnel boring machine. During the rotation of the head and under the action of the thrust, the wheel rolls on the cutting face and punches the rock in the form of chipped plates.

La tête de coupe comporte ainsi une pluralité de molettes réparties régulièrement sur sa surface.The cutting head thus comprises a plurality of wheels distributed regularly over its surface.

Les molettes sont classiquement fixées dans un porte-outil de coupe sur la tête de coupe au moyen de calages boulonnés. Pour cela, le porte-outil de coupe comprend un boîtier, adapté pour être fixé sur le bouclier du tunnelier et définissant une chambre agencée pour loger la molette. Des supports de serrage sont fixés sur ou formés avec des faces externes de la molette et comprennent deux surfaces de blocages adaptées pour venir en prise avec un système de verrouillage manuel. Ce système de verrouillage comprend notamment des cales, adaptées pour venir en prise entre des empreintes du boîtier et des surfaces de blocage des supports de serrage. Ces cales sont fixées en position dans les empreintes à l'aide de plusieurs vis, boulons, etc. afin d'empêcher les molettes de se déloger du boîtier, malgré l'environnement sévère d'utilisation de la molette.The wheels are conventionally fixed in a cutting tool holder on the cutting head by means of bolted shims. For this, the cutting tool holder comprises a housing, adapted to be fixed on the shield of the tunnel boring machine and defining a chamber arranged to house the wheel. Clamp brackets are attached to or formed with outer faces of the thumb wheel and include two locking surfaces adapted to engage a manual locking system. This locking system comprises in particular shims, adapted to engage between indentations of the housing and the locking surfaces of the clamping supports. These wedges are fixed in position in the indentations using several screws, bolts, etc. in order to prevent the dials from dislodging from the housing, despite the harsh environment of use of the dial.

Le problème du changement des molettes se pose particulièrement dans le cas de tunneliers à front confiné, puisque l'accès à la tête de coupe et aux fixations des molettes (cales, vis, etc.) est difficile et que l'environnement de travail est en conditions hyperbares. Dans de tels tunneliers, le changement de molette est donc effectué, pour des raisons de sécurité, par l'arrière de la tête de coupe, c'est-à-dire du côté de la tête de coupe opposé au front de coupe.The problem of changing rollers arises particularly in the case of tunnel boring machines with a confined front, since access to the cutting head and to the wheel attachments (shims, screws, etc.) is difficult and the working environment is difficult. in hyperbaric conditions. In such tunnel boring machines, the wheel change is therefore carried out, for safety reasons, from the rear of the cutting head, that is to say from the side of the cutting head opposite to the cutting front.

La procédure de changement de molette exige fréquemment d'exercer des efforts importants pour décoller la molette usagée de son boîtier, en raison de coincements et de l'absence de guidage de la molette, ce qui est difficilement compatible avec un travail en conditions hyperbares.The wheel change procedure frequently requires exerting significant efforts to detach the used wheel from its housing, due to jamming and the lack of guidance of the wheel, which is hardly compatible with work in hyperbaric conditions.

A l'heure actuelle, la procédure de changement d'une molette consiste à équiper la molette d'anneaux de levage, à la lever à l'aide d'un palan coulissant le long d'un rail, à la charger sur un chariot traversant le sas matériel et à la ramener vers l'arrière à l'abri du bouclier, à pression atmosphérique. Au cours du démontage, il est également nécessaire de collecter au fur et à mesure tous les éléments (cales, vis, boulons, etc.) nécessaires à la fixation de la molette et qui seront réutilisés pour le montage de la nouvelle molette.At present, the procedure for changing a wheel consists of fitting the wheel with lifting rings, lifting it using a hoist sliding along a rail, loading it on a trolley crossing the material airlock and bring it back to the rear under the shield, at atmospheric pressure. During disassembly, it is also necessary to collect as you go all the elements (shims, screws, bolts, etc.) necessary for the fixing of the wheel and which will be reused for the assembly of the new wheel.

Avant d'introduire la nouvelle molette dans son boîtier, il faut la positionner adéquatement, ce qui nécessite une intervention manuelle délicate. Une fois la molette poussée vers sa position d'utilisation, les cales de blocage sont alors remises en place. On pourra notamment se référer aux documents JP H10 140980 , JP 2007/070825 , JP H07 180488 et FR 2 758 853 , qui décrivent des outils de coupe comprenant des molettes fixées dans un boîtier sur la tête de coupe à l'aide de cales maintenues fixes en position par rapport au boîtier grâce à des boulons, des vis et/ou des tourillons.Before inserting the new dial into its housing, it must be positioned properly, which requires delicate manual intervention. Once the wheel has been pushed to its position of use, the locking wedges are then put back in place. Reference may in particular be made to the documents JP H10 140980 , JP 2007/070825 , JP H07 180488 and FR 2 758 853 , which describe cutting tools comprising wheels fixed in a housing on the cutting head using shims held fixed in position with respect to the housing by means of bolts, screws and / or journals.

On comprend donc que cette procédure est longue et pénible pour les opérateurs.It is therefore understandable that this procedure is long and painful for the operators.

On a donc proposé, dans le document WO 2011/076616 au nom de la Demanderesse, une nouvelle molette comprenant un organe de verrouillage adapté pour être immobilisé dans le boîtier, de sorte que la molette constitue un bloc rigide en vue de sa manipulation, et des moyens de mise en précontrainte de la molette pouvant comprendre des vis portées solidairement de la molette. Dans un mode de réalisation particulier, l'organe de verrouillage comprend une baïonnette adaptée pour coopérer avec une empreinte du boîtier et mobile en rotation entre une position d'insertion de la molette dans le boîtier et une position de verrouillage de la molette dans le boîtier.We therefore proposed, in the document WO 2011/076616 on behalf of the Applicant, a new wheel comprising a locking member adapted to be immobilized in the housing, so that the wheel constitutes a rigid block with a view to its handling, and means for preloading the wheel which may include screws carried integrally with the knob. In a particular embodiment, the locking member comprises a bayonet adapted to cooperate with an imprint of the housing and movable in rotation between a position of insertion of the wheel in the housing and a locking position of the wheel in the housing .

Toutefois, en utilisation, la molette subit des contraintes en pression et en vibration très importantes qui risquent de déloger la baïonnette. Il est en effet difficile d'appliquer un effort de pré-contrainte suffisant pour résister aux vibrations de la molette en terrain dur.However, in use, the wheel is subjected to very high pressure and vibration stresses which risk dislodging the bayonet. It is in fact difficult to apply a pre-stress force sufficient to withstand the vibrations of the wheel in hard terrain.

RESUME DE L'INVENTIONSUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Un but de la présente invention est donc de proposer un porte-outil de coupe et un ensemble de coupe pour un tunnelier comprenant une molette de tunnelier et un porte-outil de coupe associé, capables de supporter l'environnement très sévère des molettes, notamment la pression importante et les vibrations engendrées par le roulement de la molette sur le front de coupe, et qui permette en outre de réduire, voire de supprimer, toute intervention humaine lors du remplacement d'une molette.An object of the present invention is therefore to provide a cutting tool holder and a cutting assembly for a tunnel boring machine comprising a tunnel boring wheel and an associated cutting tool holder, capable of withstanding the very severe environment of the wheels, in particular the high pressure and the vibrations generated by the rolling of the wheel on the cutting edge, and which also makes it possible to reduce, or even eliminate, any human intervention when replacing a wheel.

Un autre objet de l'invention est de proposer un procédé de remplacement d'une molette d'un tel ensemble de coupe, ainsi qu'un dispositif de manipulation de la molette adapté pour la mise en œuvre de ce procédé, en permettant notamment d'éviter toute perte de pièces.Another object of the invention is to provide a method for replacing a wheel of such a cutting assembly, as well as a device for handling the wheel suitable for the implementation of this method, in particular by allowing d '' avoid any loss of parts.

Egalement, le dispositif de manipulation de l'ensemble de coupe lui-même doit pouvoir être nettoyé facilement et ne pas comporter de zones de rétention d'eau ou de boue.Also, the handling device of the cutting assembly itself should be easy to clean and free from areas of water or mud retention.

Enfin, ce dispositif doit pouvoir être utilisé dans les têtes de coupe existantes, de préférence sans nécessiter de modifications importantes de celles-ci.Finally, this device must be able to be used in existing cutting heads, preferably without requiring significant modifications thereof.

Pour cela, l'invention propose un porte-outil de coupe pour un tunnelier, ledit porte-outil de coupe étant adapté pour loger une molette montée libre en rotation autour d'un axe de rotation dans ledit porte-outil et comprenant :

  • un boîtier, définissant une chambre agencée pour loger la molette, ledit boîtier comprenant deux empreintes formées dans des parois opposées de la chambre, et
    • ■ deux ensembles de bridage, configurés pour être montés de part et d'autre de la molette de façon amovible dans le boîtier, et comprenant chacun une embase, adaptée pour être fixée sur la molette dans le boîtier, ladite molette restant libre en rotation autour de son axe de rotation, et
    • ■ une cale centrale et deux cales latérales,
le porte outil de coupe étant caractérisé en ce que, pour chaque ensemble de bridage, la cale centrale est montée mobile sur l'embase et en ce que les deux cales latérales sont montées sur l'embase et la cale centrale en étant articulées par rapport à celles-ci entre une position escamotée, dans laquelle les cales latérales s'escamotent et permettent le retrait de l'ensemble de bridage par rapport au boîtier, et une position de bridage, dans laquelle les cales latérales basculent et s'engagent dans l'empreinte en regard du boîtier afin d'empêcher l'extraction de l'ensemble de bridage du boîtier.For this, the invention provides a cutting tool holder for a tunnel boring machine, said cutting tool holder being adapted to accommodate a wheel mounted to rotate freely around an axis of rotation in said tool holder and comprising:
  • a housing, defining a chamber arranged to house the wheel, said housing comprising two indentations formed in opposite walls of the chamber, and
    • ■ two clamping assemblies, configured to be mounted on either side of the wheel removably in the housing, and each comprising a base, adapted to be fixed on the wheel in the housing, said wheel remaining free to rotate around its axis of rotation, and
    • ■ a central wedge and two side wedges,
the cutting tool holder being characterized in that, for each clamping assembly, the central wedge is movably mounted on the base and in that the two side wedges are mounted on the base and the central wedge being articulated relative to to these between a retracted position, in which the side wedges retract and allow the removal of the clamping assembly relative to the housing, and a clamping position, in which the side wedges tilt and engage in the 'indentation facing the housing to prevent the extraction of the housing clamping assembly.

Certaines caractéristiques préférées mais non limitatives du porte-outil de coupe décrit ci-dessus sont les suivantes :
chaque ensemble de bridage comprend en outre un goujon fileté, monté sur l'embase, et un écrou d'actionnement, monté d'une part sur la cale centrale et d'autre part sur le goujon fileté, de sorte que le vissage ou le dévissage dudit écrou d'actionnement entraine la translation de la cale centrale par rapport à l'embase et le déplacement des cales latérales entre leur position escamotée et leur position de bridage,

  • les cales latérales sont montées à rotation autour d'un axe sur l'embase ou sur la cale centrale, et comprennent chacune un pion d'actionnement, et deux gorges de guidage sont formées dans la cale centrale ou dans l'embase respectivement, lesdites gorges de guidage définissant des surfaces de came pour les pions d'actionnement, chaque pion d'actionnement étant logé dans une gorge de guidage de sorte que le déplacement de la cale centrale par rapport à l'embase entraine le déplacement du pion d'actionnement le long de la gorge de guidage et donc la rotation de la cale latérale par rapport à l'embase entre sa position escamotée et sa position de bridage,
  • les cales latérales sont montées à rotation sur l'embase et les gorges de guidage sont formées dans la cale centrale,
  • l'axe de rotation des cales latérales est sensiblement parallèle à l'axe de rotation de la molette,
  • les cales latérales et la cale centrale comprennent des faces d'appui associées, configurées pour venir en prise lorsque les cales latérales sont dans la position de bridage afin de supporter les efforts transitant dans les ensembles de bridage et conférer un état stable auxdits ensembles de bridage,
  • les cales latérales s'étendant sensiblement symétriquement par rapport à l'embase, et
  • le boîtier comprend en outre quatre empreintes supplémentaires respectivement chacune dans les parois latérales opposées entre les empreintes et la face avant du boîtier, adaptées pour recevoir chacune une cale latérale supplémentaire distincte des ensembles de bridage.
Some preferred but non-limiting features of the cutting tool holder described above are as follows:
each clamping assembly further comprises a threaded stud, mounted on the base, and an actuating nut, mounted on the one hand on the central wedge and on the other hand on the threaded stud, so that the screwing or unscrewing of said actuating nut causes the translation of the central wedge relative to the base and the displacement of the lateral wedges between their retracted position and their clamping position,
  • the lateral wedges are mounted to rotate about an axis on the base or on the central wedge, and each comprises an actuating pin, and two guide grooves are formed in the central wedge or in the base respectively, said Guide grooves defining cam surfaces for the actuating pins, each actuating pin being housed in a guide groove so that the movement of the central wedge relative to the base causes the movement of the actuating pin along the guide groove and therefore the rotation of the lateral wedge relative to the base between its retracted position and its clamping position,
  • the side wedges are rotatably mounted on the base and the guide grooves are formed in the central wedge,
  • the axis of rotation of the side wedges is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation of the wheel,
  • the lateral wedges and the central wedge comprise associated bearing faces, configured to engage when the lateral wedges are in the clamping position in order to withstand the forces passing through the clamping assemblies and to give a stable state to said clamping assemblies ,
  • the lateral wedges extending substantially symmetrically with respect to the base, and
  • the housing further comprises four additional recesses each respectively in the side walls opposite between the recesses and the front face of the housing, each adapted to receive an additional lateral wedge distinct from the clamping assemblies.

Selon un deuxième aspect, l'invention propose également un ensemble de bridage d'un porte-outil de coupe pour un tunnelier comme décrit ci-dessus, configurés pour être montés de part et d'autre d'une molette de façon amovible dans un boîtier, et comprenant chacun :

  • une embase, adaptée pour être fixée sur la molette (10) dans le boîtier, ladite molette restant libre en rotation autour de son axe de rotation, et
  • une cale centrale et deux cales latérales,
l'ensemble de bridage étant caractérisé en ce que la cale centrale est montée mobile sur l'embase et en ce que les deux cales latérales sont montées sur l'embase et la cale centrale en étant articulées par rapport à celles-ci entre une position escamotée, dans laquelle les cales latérales s'escamotent et permettent le retrait de l'ensemble de bridage par rapport au boîtier (2), et une position de bridage, dans laquelle les cales latérales (36) basculent et s'engagent dans l'empreinte en regard du boîtier afin d'empêcher l'extraction de l'ensemble de bridage du boîtier.According to a second aspect, the invention also provides a clamping assembly for a cutting tool holder for a tunnel boring machine as described above, configured to be mounted on either side of a wheel removably in a housing, and each comprising :
  • a base, adapted to be fixed on the wheel (10) in the housing, said wheel remaining free to rotate around its axis of rotation, and
  • a central wedge and two side wedges,
the clamping assembly being characterized in that the central wedge is movably mounted on the base and in that the two lateral wedges are mounted on the base and the central wedge while being articulated relative to the latter between a position retracted, in which the side wedges retract and allow the removal of the clamping assembly from the housing (2), and a clamping position, in which the side wedges (36) tilt and engage in the indentation facing the housing in order to prevent the extraction of the housing clamping assembly.

Selon un troisième aspect, l'invention propose également un ensemble de coupe pour un tunnelier, comprenant une molette , fixée dans un porte-outil de coupe comme décrit ci-dessus.According to a third aspect, the invention also provides a cutting assembly for a tunnel boring machine, comprising a wheel, fixed in a cutting tool holder as described above.

Selon un quatrième aspect, l'invention propose également un procédé de remplacement d'une molette d'un ensemble de coupe pour un tunnelier comme décrit ci-dessus, caractérisé en ce comprend les étapes de:

  1. (i) extraction d'une molette usagée du boîtier, comprenant les étapes suivantes :
    • accostage et prise d'appui sur le boîtier d'un dispositif de manipulation adapté pour la préhension et le guidage de la molette,
    • préhension de l'ensemble de bridage et/ou de la molette par le dispositif de manipulation,
    • libération du bridage appliqué aux ensembles de bridage et au boîtier,
    • extraction de la molette du boîtier,
    • retrait du dispositif de manipulation du boîtier,
  2. (ii) mise en place dans ledit boîtier d'une molette de remplacement, comprenant les étapes suivantes :
    • préhension des ensembles de bridage et/ou de la molette par le dispositif de manipulation,
    • accostage et prise d'appui du dispositif de manipulation sur le boîtier,
    • introduction de la molette dans le boîtier, ladite molette étant guidée par le dispositif de manipulation,
    • manœuvre des ensembles de bridage de la molette de manière à loger les cales latérales dans les empreintes correspondantes du boîtier.
According to a fourth aspect, the invention also proposes a method for replacing a wheel of a cutting assembly for a tunnel boring machine as described above, characterized in that it comprises the steps of:
  1. (i) removing a used wheel from the housing, comprising the following steps:
    • docking and bearing on the housing of a handling device suitable for gripping and guiding the wheel,
    • gripping of the clamping assembly and / or the wheel by the handling device,
    • release of the clamping applied to the clamping assemblies and the housing,
    • extracting the dial from the housing,
    • removal of the handling device from the housing,
  2. (ii) placing in said housing of a replacement wheel, comprising the following steps:
    • gripping of the clamping assemblies and / or the wheel by the handling device,
    • docking and bearing of the handling device on the housing,
    • introduction of the wheel into the housing, said wheel being guided by the handling device,
    • maneuver the wheel clamping assemblies so as to house the side shims in the corresponding recesses of the housing.

BREVE DESCRIPTION DES DESSINSBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

D'autres caractéristiques, buts et avantages de la présente invention apparaîtront mieux à la lecture de la description détaillée qui va suivre, et au regard des dessins annexés donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs et sur lesquels :

  • Les figures 1 et 2 sont des vues en perspective sous différents angles d'un exemple de réalisation d'un ensemble de coupe de tunnelier conforme à l'invention,
  • La figure 3 est une vue de côté partiellement tronquée de l'ensemble de coupe des figures 1 et 2,
  • La figure 4a est une vue en coupe d'un premier exemple de réalisation d'un porte-outil de coupe de tunnelier selon l'invention, en position escamotée, (prêt pour l'extraction),
  • La figure 4b est une vue en coupe du porte-outil de coupe de la figure 4a, en position de bridage,
  • La figure 5 est une vue en coupe selon l'axe A-A de l'ensemble de coupe des figures 1 et 2,
  • La figure 6 est une vue en coupe d'un exemple de réalisation d'un boîtier selon l'invention pour un ensemble de coupe de tunnelier, dans lequel la molette est bridée par un exemple de système de verrouillage conventionnel, et
  • La figure 7 est un organigramme représentant différentes étapes d'un exemple de réalisation du procédé de remplacement d'une molette d'un ensemble de coupe pour un tunnelier conforme à l'invention.
Other features, objects and advantages of the present invention will appear better on reading the detailed description which follows, and on with regard to the appended drawings given by way of nonlimiting examples and in which:
  • The figures 1 and 2 are perspective views from different angles of an exemplary embodiment of a tunnel boring machine cutting assembly according to the invention,
  • The figure 3 is a partially cutaway side view of the cutting assembly of figures 1 and 2 ,
  • The figure 4a is a sectional view of a first exemplary embodiment of a tunnel boring machine cutting tool holder according to the invention, in the retracted position, (ready for extraction),
  • The figure 4b is a sectional view of the cutting tool holder of the figure 4a , in the clamping position,
  • The figure 5 is a sectional view along the axis AA of the cutting assembly of the figures 1 and 2 ,
  • The figure 6 is a sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a housing according to the invention for a tunnel boring machine cutting assembly, in which the wheel is clamped by an example of a conventional locking system, and
  • The figure 7 is a flowchart representing different steps of an exemplary embodiment of the method for replacing a wheel of a cutting assembly for a tunnel boring machine according to the invention.

DESCRIPTION DETAILLEE D'UN MODE DE REALISATIONDETAILED DESCRIPTION OF AN EMBODIMENT

Un ensemble de coupe 5 comprend un porte-outil 1 de coupe pour un tunnelier et une molette 10, logée dans le porte-outil 1.A cutting assembly 5 comprises a cutting tool holder 1 for a tunnel boring machine and a wheel 10, housed in the tool holder 1.

Une molette 10 présente de façon connue en soi la forme générale d'un disque comprenant deux faces latérales 12 reliées par une tranche 14 sensiblement circulaire. Au cours de la rotation de la tête du tunnelier et sous l'action de la poussée, la tranche 14 de la molette 10 roule sur le front de coupe, poinçonne la roche et forme des plaques écaillées.A wheel 10 has, in a manner known per se, the general shape of a disc comprising two side faces 12 connected by a substantially circular edge 14. During the rotation of the head of the tunnel boring machine and under the action of the thrust, the edge 14 of the wheel 10 rolls on the cutting face, punches the rock and forms chipped plates.

La molette 10 est montée dans un porte-outil 1 de manière à être librement mobile en rotation autour de son axe X de rotation.The wheel 10 is mounted in a tool holder 1 so as to be freely movable in rotation about its axis X of rotation.

Pour cela, le porte-outil 1 comprend un boîtier 2, adapté pour être fixé sur un bouclier du tunnelier et deux ensembles de bridage 3 montés de part et d'autre de la molette 10 de façon amovible dans le boîtier 2 afin de brider la molette 10 dans ledit boîtier 2.For this, the tool holder 1 comprises a housing 2, adapted to be fixed on a shield of the tunnel boring machine and two clamping assemblies 3 mounted on either side of the wheel 10 removably in the housing 2 in order to clamp the wheel 10 in said housing 2.

Le boîtier 2 comprend des parois latérales 20 reliées par une face avant 22 et une face arrière 24 et définissant ensemble une chambre 21 adaptée pour recevoir une molette 10. La face avant 22 est définie comme étant la face de laquelle débouche la molette 10, vers le front de coupe, tandis que la face arrière 24 du boîtier 2 est la face opposée, par laquelle la molette 10 est insérée.The housing 2 comprises side walls 20 connected by a front face 22 and a rear face 24 and together defining a chamber 21 adapted to receive a wheel 10. The front face 22 is defined as being the face from which the wheel 10 opens, towards the cutting edge, while the rear face 24 of the housing 2 is the opposite face, through which the wheel 10 is inserted.

Le boîtier comprend deux empreintes 26 formées dans des parois latérales 20 opposées, configurées pour venir en regard des faces latérales 12 de la molette 10 lorsque la molette 10 est introduite dans la chambre 21 du boîtier. Ces deux parois latérales 20 opposées sont en outre traversées par l'arbre d'entrainement (non visible sur les figures) de ladite molette 10 afin de permettre sa rotation par rapport au boîtier 2.The housing comprises two indentations 26 formed in opposite side walls 20, configured to face the side faces 12 of the wheel 10 when the wheel 10 is introduced into the chamber 21 of the housing. These two opposite side walls 20 are also crossed by the drive shaft (not visible in the figures) of said wheel 10 in order to allow it to rotate relative to the housing 2.

Chaque ensemble de bridage 3 comprend une embase 32, configurée pour être montée sur la molette 10 dans le boîtier 2 tout en la laissant libre en en rotation autour de son axe de rotation X, une cale centrale 34, montée mobile sur l'embase 32, et deux cales latérales 36. Les cales latérales 36 sont articulées entre l'embase 32 et la cale centrale 34 entre une position escamotée, dans laquelle les cales latérales 36 s'escamotent, et une position de bridage, dans laquelle les cales latérales 36 basculent transversalement et s'engagent dans l'empreinte 26 en regard du boîtier 2 afin d'empêcher l'extraction de l'ensemble de bridage 3 du boîtier 2.Each clamping assembly 3 comprises a base 32, configured to be mounted on the wheel 10 in the housing 2 while leaving it free to rotate around its axis of rotation X, a central wedge 34, movably mounted on the base 32 , and two lateral wedges 36. The lateral wedges 36 are articulated between the base 32 and the central wedge 34 between a retracted position, in which the lateral wedges 36 retract, and a clamping position, in which the lateral wedges 36 tilt transversely and engage in the recess 26 facing the housing 2 in order to prevent the extraction of the clamping assembly 3 from the housing 2.

Dans l'exemple de réalisation illustré sur les figures, les cales latérales 36 sont montées à pivotement sur l'embase 3 autour d'un axe Y sensiblement parallèle à l'axe X de rotation de la molette 10. Les cales latérales 36 sont donc solidaires de l'embase 32 à tout instant. Par solidaire, on comprendra ici que les différents éléments sont mécaniquement liés, c'est-à-dire qu'ils peuvent avoir des mouvements relatifs les uns par rapport aux autres mais qu'ils restent reliés mécaniquement les uns aux autres sans possibilité naturelle de séparation. De manière générale, toutes les pièces formant l'ensemble de bridage 3 sont solidaires les unes des autres, directement ou indirectement, afin de permettre la manipulation de l'ensemble de bridage 3 par un dispositif de manipulation automatisé. Ainsi, les pièces formant l'ensemble de bridage 3 sont imperdables, ce qui simplifie nettement la mise en œuvre d'un tel dispositif de manipulation.In the embodiment illustrated in the figures, the lateral wedges 36 are pivotally mounted on the base 3 about an axis Y substantially parallel to the axis X of rotation of the wheel 10. The wedges side 36 are therefore integral with the base 32 at all times. By interdependent, it will be understood here that the different elements are mechanically linked, that is to say that they can have relative movements with respect to each other but that they remain mechanically connected to each other without the natural possibility of separation. In general, all the parts forming the clamping assembly 3 are integral with one another, directly or indirectly, in order to allow the handling of the clamping assembly 3 by an automated handling device. Thus, the parts forming the clamping assembly 3 are captive, which clearly simplifies the implementation of such a handling device.

L'embase 32 peut être fixée sur la face latérale 12 de la molette 10 à l'aide de vis. Par ailleurs, la cale centrale 34 est mobile en translation par rapport à l'embase 32 et est adaptée pour déplacer les cales latérales 36 entre leur position escamotée et leur position de bridage suivant une cinématique adaptée pour assurer le blocage de la molette 10 dans le boîtier 2, et inversement.The base 32 can be fixed on the lateral face 12 of the wheel 10 using screws. Furthermore, the central wedge 34 is movable in translation relative to the base 32 and is adapted to move the lateral wedges 36 between their retracted position and their clamping position according to a kinematics adapted to ensure the locking of the wheel 10 in the box 2, and vice versa.

Dans une forme de réalisation, afin de déplacer les cales latérales 36 entre leur position escamotée et leur position de bridage, chaque ensemble de bridage 3 comprend un pion d'actionnement 37, fixé solidairement sur chaque cale latérale 36 et logé dans une gorge de guidage 35 formée dans la cale centrale 34 de manière à être mobile le long de ladite gorge 35 de guidage. Par exemple, les pions d'actionnement 37 peuvent être formés intégralement avec la cale latérale 36 correspondante.In one embodiment, in order to move the lateral wedges 36 between their retracted position and their clamping position, each clamping assembly 3 comprises an actuating pin 37, fixed integrally on each lateral wedge 36 and housed in a guide groove 35 formed in the central wedge 34 so as to be movable along said guide groove 35. For example, the actuating pins 37 can be formed integrally with the corresponding lateral wedge 36.

Dans l'exemple de réalisation illustré sur les figures 4a et 4b, les gorges de guidage 35 sont de forme courbe afin de définir chacune deux surfaces de came pour le pion d'actionnement 37 correspondant. De la sorte, lors du passage de la position escamotée vers la position de bridage, la cale centrale 34 est déplacée vers l'embase 32 ce qui déplace les pions d'actionnement 37 le long d'une première paroi des gorges de guidage 35, de préférence suivant un arc de cercle centré sur l'axe Y. Les cales latérales 36 basculent alors transversalement afin de s'engager dans l'empreinte 26 en regard du boîtier, et empêchent ainsi l'extraction de l'ensemble de bridage 3 du boîtier 2.In the exemplary embodiment illustrated on figures 4a and 4b , the guide grooves 35 are curved in order to each define two cam surfaces for the corresponding actuating pin 37. In this way, during the passage from the retracted position to the clamping position, the central wedge 34 is moved towards the base 32 which moves the actuating pins 37 along a first wall of the guide grooves 35, preferably along an arc of a circle centered on the Y axis. side 36 then tilt transversely in order to engage in the recess 26 facing the housing, and thus prevent the extraction of the clamping assembly 3 from the housing 2.

Inversement, lors du passage de la position de bridage vers la position escamotée, la cale centrale 34 est éloignée de l'embase 32 ce qui déplace les pions d'actionnement 37 le long d'une deuxième paroi des gorges de guidage 35, de préférence suivant un arc de cercle centré sur l'axe Y. Les cales latérales 36 s'escamotent en se rapprochant alors l'une de l'autre et sortent de l'empreinte 26, libérant ainsi l'ensemble de bridage 3, et donc la molette 10, du boîtier 2.Conversely, during the passage from the clamping position to the retracted position, the central wedge 34 is moved away from the base 32 which moves the actuating pins 37 along a second wall of the guide grooves 35, preferably following an arc of a circle centered on the Y axis. The lateral wedges 36 are retracted, then approaching one another and come out of the recess 26, thus freeing the clamping assembly 3, and therefore the thumbwheel 10, from housing 2.

Dans une forme de réalisation, les cales latérales 36 et la cale centrale 34 de chaque ensemble de bridage 3 comprennent de faces d'appui 36a, 34a associées, configurées pour venir en prise l'une contre l'autre lorsque les cales latérales 36 sont en position de bridage. Pour cela, les faces d'appui 36a, 34a des cales latérales 36 et de la cale centrale 34 sont conformées et orientées de manière à supporter les efforts transitant dans les ensembles de bridage 3 en formant un état stable pour lesdits ensemble de bridage 3. Par état stable, on comprendra ici que les faces d'appui 34a, 36a restent en contact malgré les fortes vibrations et la pression importante subies par l'ensemble de coupe 5, et ne se désengagent que par application d'un effort sur l'actionneur 38 afin d'escamoter les cales latérales 36. De la sorte, lorsque les cales latérales 36 sont dans leur position de bridage, les efforts de contrainte sont répartis entre les deux cales latérales 36 et ne risquent pas d'être transférés sur l'une seulement des deux cales latérales 36. Par ailleurs, dans la position de bridage, la coopération des faces d'appui 36a, 3aa des cales latérales 36 et de la cale centrale 34 permet d'éviter que les efforts de contrainte généré par l'environnement sévère des ensembles de coupe 5 ne transitent par les pions d'actionnement 37 et les gorges de guidage 35. L'effet de came entre les pions d'actionnement 37 et les gorges de guidage 35 devient donc inopérant lorsque les cales latérales 36 sont dans la position de bridage, puisque ce sont les faces d'appui 34a, 36a de la cale centrale 34 et des cales latérales 36 qui supportent les efforts de contrainte.In one embodiment, the side wedges 36 and the central wedge 34 of each clamping assembly 3 comprise associated bearing faces 36a, 34a, configured to engage each other when the side wedges 36 are in the clamping position. For this, the bearing faces 36a, 34a of the lateral wedges 36 and of the central wedge 34 are shaped and oriented so as to withstand the forces passing through the clamping assemblies 3, forming a stable state for said clamping assembly 3. By stable state, it will be understood here that the bearing faces 34a, 36a remain in contact despite the strong vibrations and the significant pressure undergone by the cutting assembly 5, and only disengage by application of a force on the actuator 38 in order to retract the side wedges 36. In this way, when the side wedges 36 are in their clamping position, the stress forces are distributed between the two side wedges 36 and do not risk being transferred to the only one of the two lateral wedges 36. Furthermore, in the clamping position, the cooperation of the bearing faces 36a, 3aa of the lateral wedges 36 and of the central wedge 34 makes it possible to prevent the stress forces generated by the severe environment of s cutting assemblies 5 do not pass through the actuating pins 37 and the guide grooves 35. The cam effect between the actuating pins 37 and the guide grooves 35 therefore becomes inoperative when the lateral wedges 36 are in the clamping position, since it is the bearing faces 34a, 36a of the central wedge 34 and of the lateral wedges 36 which withstand the stress forces.

On comprendra bien entendu que l'invention couvre également le cas d'un ensemble de bridage 3 équivalent, dans lequel les cales latérales 36 sont montées solidairement et de façon libre en rotation sur la cale centrale 34, tandis que les gorges de guidage 35 formant les surface de came sont formées dans l'embase 32. La translation de la cale centrale 34 entraine alors le déplacement des pions d'actionnement 37 le long des gorges de guidage 35, de préférence suivant des arcs de cercle centrés sur l'axe Y, et donc la rotation des cales latérales 36 par rapport à la cale centrale 34 entre leur position escamotée et leur position de bridage.It will of course be understood that the invention also covers the case of an equivalent clamping assembly 3, in which the lateral wedges 36 are mounted integrally and freely in rotation on the central wedge 34, while the guide grooves 35 forming the cam surfaces are formed in the base 32. The translation of the central wedge 34 then causes the movement of the actuating pins 37 along the guide grooves 35, preferably along arcs of a circle centered on the Y axis , and therefore the rotation of the lateral wedges 36 relative to the central wedge 34 between their retracted position and their clamping position.

Afin de déplacer la cale centrale 34 par rapport à l'embase 32, l'ensemble de bridage 3 comprend en outre un actionneur 38, monté sur l'embase 32 et la cale centrale 34.In order to move the central wedge 34 relative to the base 32, the clamping assembly 3 further comprises an actuator 38, mounted on the base 32 and the central wedge 34.

Par exemple, l'actionneur peut comprendre un goujon fileté 39 ancré dans l'embase 32, au niveau de l'extrémité libre duquel est vissé un écrou 38 d'actionnement, ici un écrou à collerette. L'écrou 39 est en outre monté sur la cale centrale 34 de manière à être solidaire en translation de celle-ci. Le vissage/dévissage de l'écrou 38 sur le goujon fileté 39 entraine alors le déplacement de l'écrou 38 le long du goujon fileté 39 et donc celui de la cale centrale 34 par rapport à l'embase 32. De préférence, le couple de serrage sur l'écrou 38 permet d'appliquer un effort suffisant aux cales latérales 36 pour bloquer la molette 10 par rapport au boîtier 2 pendant son travail de creusement, malgré l'environnement sévère subit par l'ensemble de coupe 5.For example, the actuator may comprise a threaded stud 39 anchored in the base 32, at the free end of which an actuating nut 38 is screwed, here a flanged nut. The nut 39 is also mounted on the central wedge 34 so as to be integral in translation with the latter. The screwing / unscrewing of the nut 38 on the threaded stud 39 then causes the displacement of the nut 38 along the threaded stud 39 and therefore that of the central wedge 34 relative to the base 32. Preferably, the torque tightening on the nut 38 makes it possible to apply a sufficient force to the side wedges 36 to block the wheel 10 with respect to the housing 2 during its digging work, despite the severe environment suffered by the cutting assembly 5.

Cet exemple de réalisation de l'actionneur 38 n'est pas limitatif, d'autres types d'actionneurs 38 capables de commander la translation de la cale centrale 34 par rapport à l'embase 32 tout en assurant le maintien en position en bout de course de la molette 10 pouvant être envisagés. Il peut s'agir par exemple d'un vérin hydraulique.This exemplary embodiment of the actuator 38 is not limiting, other types of actuators 38 capable of controlling the translation of the central wedge 34 relative to the base 32 while ensuring that it is held in position at the end of stroke of the wheel 10 can be considered. It may, for example, be a hydraulic cylinder.

Dans une variante de réalisation illustrée sur la figure 5, le boîtier 2 comprend en outre un système de calage latéral 40 adapté pour ajuster le calage de la molette 10 et des ensembles de bridage 3 dans le boîtier 2 le long de l'axe X de rotation de la molette 10. Ce système de calage latéral 40 comprend une boîte 42, rapportée sur l'une des parois latérales 20 du boîtier 2 et comprenant un logement dans lequel sont logés deux coins 44, 46 connectés ensemble à la manière d'une queue d'aronde. Un premier 44 des coins est fixé sur la paroi latérale 20 du boîtier 2, et donc immobile par rapport à celle-ci, tandis que le deuxième coin 46 est susceptible de glisser sur une surface 45 du premier coin 44, qui forme une surface de came. De préférence, les dimensions des coins 44, 46 sont telles que le deuxième coin 46 est bloqué dans une direction perpendiculaire à la paroi latérale 20, mais mobile dans une direction de translation T sensiblement parallèle à celle-ci. Une vis 48, s'étendant selon la direction de translation T, est en outre fixée sur le deuxième coin 46. Ainsi, le vissage de la vis 48 entraine le déplacement du deuxième coin 46 vers une position de travail du coin, dans laquelle les coins 44, 46 appliquent un effort selon perpendiculairement à la paroi latérale 20 du boîtier 2, et une position rétractée, dans laquelle les coins 44, 46 sont au repos.In an alternative embodiment illustrated on figure 5 , the housing 2 further comprises a lateral wedging system 40 adapted to adjust the wedging of the wheel 10 and of the clamping assemblies 3 in the housing 2 along the X axis of rotation of the wheel 10. This wedging system side 40 comprises a box 42, attached to one of the side walls 20 of the box 2 and comprising a housing in which are housed two corners 44, 46 connected together in the manner of a dovetail. A first 44 of the corners is fixed to the side wall 20 of the housing 2, and therefore stationary with respect to the latter, while the second corner 46 is able to slide on a surface 45 of the first corner 44, which forms a surface of cam. Preferably, the dimensions of the corners 44, 46 are such that the second corner 46 is blocked in a direction perpendicular to the side wall 20, but movable in a direction of translation T substantially parallel to the latter. A screw 48, extending in the direction of translation T, is also fixed on the second corner 46. Thus, the screwing of the screw 48 causes the displacement of the second corner 46 towards a working position of the corner, in which the corners 44, 46 apply a force perpendicularly to the side wall 20 of the housing 2, and a retracted position, in which the corners 44, 46 are at rest.

En variante, la vis 48 pourrait être remplacée par un doigt d'appui muni d'un ressort.As a variant, the screw 48 could be replaced by a support finger provided with a spring.

Le boîtier 2 de l'ensemble de coupe 5 peut en en outre configuré pour permettre le bridage de la molette 10 à l'aide d'un système de verrouillage manuel conventionnel. A cet effet, le boîtier 2 peut comprendre, dans la face interne des parois latérales 20 opposées dans lesquelles sont formées les empreintes 26, deux empreintes supplémentaires 28. Les empreintes supplémentaires 28 sont de préférence formées entre les empreintes 26 destinées à recevoir les cales latérales 36 des ensembles de bridage 3 et la face avant 22. Comme visible sur la figure 6, chaque empreinte supplémentaire 28 est adaptée pour loger une cale latérale supplémentaire 40 du système de verrouillage manuel, distincte des ensembles de bridage 3. Les cales latérales supplémentaires 36 sont alors maintenues en prise dans les empreintes supplémentaires 28 à l'aide d'une cale centrale supplémentaire 42, vissée sur un support de serrage conventionnel, lui-même fixé sur la face latérale 12 de la molette 10.The housing 2 of the cutting assembly 5 can further be configured to allow the clamping of the wheel 10 using a conventional manual locking system. To this end, the housing 2 may comprise, in the internal face of the opposite side walls 20 in which the indentations 26 are formed, two additional indentations 28. The additional indentations 28 are preferably formed between the indentations 26 intended to receive the lateral wedges. 36 of the clamping assemblies 3 and the front face 22. As visible on figure 6 , each additional cavity 28 is adapted to accommodate a lateral wedge additional 40 of the manual locking system, separate from the clamping assemblies 3. The additional side wedges 36 are then held in engagement in the additional indentations 28 using an additional central wedge 42, screwed onto a conventional clamping support, itself fixed to the side face 12 of the wheel 10.

Le porte-outil 1 de coupe conforme à l'invention permet par conséquent, sans modification de la molette 10, de brider de manière simple, rapide, peu coûteuse et automatisée, une molette 10. Le cas échéant, le boîtier du porte-outil 1 peut en outre permettre le bridage par des systèmes conventionnels de la molette 10.The cutting tool holder 1 according to the invention therefore makes it possible, without modifying the wheel 10, to clamp in a simple, rapid, inexpensive and automated manner, a wheel 10. If necessary, the housing of the tool holder 1 can also allow the clamping by conventional systems of the wheel 10.

Un procédé de remplacement S d'une molette 10 dans un porte-outil 1 conforme à l'invention va à présent être décrit en référence à la figure 7.A method of replacing a wheel 10 in a tool holder 1 according to the invention will now be described with reference to figure 7 .

Lors de la mise en service du tunnelier, chaque molette 10 est installée dans son boîtier 2 en étant soumise à une précontrainte appliquée sur les cales latérales 36 par l'actionneur 38 qui lui permet de résister aux efforts qu'elle subit en fonctionnement (c'est-à-dire pendant l'abatage). La réaction de cette contrainte est issue des faces latérales de l'embase 32 créant ainsi un bouclage des efforts qui permettent l'immobilisation parfaite de la molette 10 sous charges et lors de la relaxation des efforts de coupe (rebond). De plus, la variation de l'effort dans les goujons 38 reste bien inférieure à leur valeur de précontrainte ce qui garantit l'absence de desserrageWhen the tunnel boring machine is put into service, each wheel 10 is installed in its housing 2 while being subjected to a prestress applied to the side wedges 36 by the actuator 38 which allows it to withstand the forces it undergoes in operation (c that is, during slaughter). The reaction of this stress comes from the lateral faces of the base 32 thus creating a looping of the forces which allow the perfect immobilization of the wheel 10 under loads and during the relaxation of the cutting forces (rebound). In addition, the variation of the force in the studs 38 remains much lower than their preload value which guarantees the absence of loosening.

De manière conventionnelle, le boîtier 2 est quant à lui fixé sur la tête de coupe, typiquement par soudure.Conventionally, the housing 2 is itself fixed to the cutting head, typically by welding.

Le procédé de remplacement S comprend une première étape S1 d'extraction de la molette 10 usagée du boîtier 2, et une deuxième étape S1 de mise en place dans le boîtier 2 d'une molette 10 de remplacement.The replacement process S comprises a first step S1 of extracting the used wheel 10 from the housing 2, and a second step S1 of placing in the housing 2 a replacement wheel 10.

L'extraction S1 de la molette 10 usagée et la mise en place de la molette 10 de remplacement S2 peuvent être réalisée de façon automatique, à l'aide d'un dispositif de manipulation adapté. En effet, les différentes pièces de l'ensemble de bridage 3 sont solidaires les unes des autres et donc imperdables. Cette forme de réalisation est particulièrement avantageuse dans le cas de tunneliers à front confiné, puisque l'environnement de travail est en conditions hyperbares. Dans de tels tunneliers, le changement de molette 10 est effectué, pour des raisons de sécurité, par l'arrière de la tête de coupe, c'est-à-dire du côté de la tête de coupe opposé au front de coupe.The extraction S1 of the used wheel 10 and the installation of the replacement wheel 10 S2 can be carried out automatically, using a suitable handling device. Indeed, the different parts of the clamping assembly 3 are integral with each other and therefore captive. This embodiment is particularly advantageous in the case of tunnel boring machines with a confined front, since the working environment is in hyperbaric conditions. In such tunnel boring machines, the change of wheel 10 is carried out, for safety reasons, from the rear of the cutting head, that is to say from the side of the cutting head opposite to the cutting front.

En variante, les étapes d'extraction S1 et de mise en place S2 peuvent être faites en tout ou partie manuellement.As a variant, the steps of extraction S1 and of placing S2 can be done in whole or in part manually.

Dans ce qui suit, le procédé de remplacement S va être décrit dans le cas d'un ensemble 5 de coupe de tunnelier comprenant un porte-outil 1 de coupe comportant deux ensembles de bridage 3 fixés de part et d'autre de la molette 10, munis chacun d'un actionneur 38 comprenant un fourreau logeant un goujon 39 fileté. Par ailleurs, chaque ensemble de bridage 3 comprend, comme illustré sur les figures 4a et 4b, deux cales latérales 36, montées à rotation sur l'embase 32 est actionnables par translation de la cale centrale 34 par l'actionneur 38.In what follows, the replacement method S will be described in the case of a tunnel boring machine cutting assembly 5 comprising a cutting tool holder 1 comprising two clamping assemblies 3 fixed on either side of the wheel 10. , each provided with an actuator 38 comprising a sleeve housing a threaded stud 39. Furthermore, each clamping assembly 3 comprises, as illustrated in the figures 4a and 4b , two lateral wedges 36, mounted for rotation on the base 32, can be actuated by translation of the central wedge 34 by the actuator 38.

Ceci n'est cependant pas limitatif, dans la mesure où les cales latérales 36 pourraient être montées à rotation sur la cale centrale 34 dont le déplacement ne suit pas nécessairement un mouvement de translation, et/ou l'actionneur 38 pourrait comprendre d'autres organes qu'un goujon 39 et un fourreau 38.This is not, however, limiting, insofar as the lateral wedges 36 could be mounted for rotation on the central wedge 34, the movement of which does not necessarily follow a translational movement, and / or the actuator 38 could comprise other bodies as a stud 39 and a sleeve 38.

Le mécanisme de bridage et de débridage peut alors être actionné par simple vissage ou dévissage des actionneurs 38 des ensembles de bridage 3, ce qui rend la mise en œuvre du procédé particulièrement adaptée à l'utilisation d'un dispositif de manipulation automatique.The clamping and unclamping mechanism can then be actuated by simply screwing or unscrewing the actuators 38 of the clamping assemblies 3, which makes the implementation of the method particularly suitable for the use of an automatic handling device.

L'extraction d'une molette 10 usagée de son boîtier 2 est mise en œuvre au cours des étapes suivantes.The extraction of a used wheel 10 from its housing 2 is carried out during the following steps.

Dans un premier temps S11, un dispositif de manipulation de la molette 10 est amené jusqu'au boîtier 2, par la face arrière 24 de la tête de coupe (c'est-à-dire la face opposée au front de coupe), et fixé au boîtier 2 afin de permettre l'extraction de la molette 10.Initially S11, a device for handling the wheel 10 is brought to the housing 2, by the rear face 24 of the cutting head (that is to say the face opposite the cutting front), and fixed to the housing 2 to allow the extraction of the knob 10.

Par exemple, le dispositif de manipulation et le boîtier 2 peuvent présenter des logements respectifs qui coopèrent pour permettre le guidage et l'accostage du dispositif de manipulation sur le boîtier 2.For example, the handling device and the housing 2 may have respective housings which cooperate to allow the guidance and docking of the handling device on the housing 2.

L'amenée du dispositif de manipulation peut être effectuée de manière semi-automatisée au moyen d'un palan ou bien de manière totalement automatisée, grâce à un robot de manutention.The handling device can be brought in semi-automatically by means of a hoist or else in a fully automated manner, thanks to a handling robot.

Une fois en position, des éléments de verrouillage du dispositif de manipulation ou du robot porteur peuvent être actionnés pour assurer le verrouillage du dispositif sur le boîtier 2. Ces éléments de verrouillage peuvent comprendre des pions de retenue mobiles d'un quart de tour agencés sur le dispositif de manipulation pour retenir des logements adéquats ménagés sur le boîtier 2.Once in position, the locking elements of the handling device or of the carrying robot can be actuated to ensure the locking of the device on the housing 2. These locking elements can comprise retaining pins movable by a quarter turn arranged on the handling device for retaining suitable housings provided on the housing 2.

Dans un deuxième temps S12, le dispositif de manipulation saisit les ensembles de bridage 3 et/ou la molette 10.Secondly, S12, the handling device grasps the clamping assemblies 3 and / or the wheel 10.

A cet effet, le dispositif de manipulation peut comprendre un élément de préhension agencé pour saisir la molette 10 et l'indexer le tout à sécurité. En variante, l'élément de préhension pourrait saisir et indexer les ensembles de bridage 3.To this end, the handling device may comprise a gripping element arranged to grip the wheel 10 and index it all securely. Alternatively, the gripping element could grip and index the clamp assemblies 3.

A ce stade, la molette 10 est toujours logée dans le boîtier 2 et bridée dans celui-ci.At this stage, the wheel 10 is still housed in the housing 2 and clamped therein.

Des dispositifs de commande peuvent alors accoster le boîtier 2 puis manœuvrer S13 les ensembles de bridage 3 afin de déplacer les cales latérales 36 de leur position de bridage vers leur position escamotée en les rapprochant grâce aux actionneurs 8. La molette 10 et les ensembles de bridage 3 sont alors désengagés du boîtier 2 et peuvent être extraits S14 par un effet d'éjection généré par la fin du mouvement de manœuvre des ensembles de bridage 3. Ce principe n'est pas limitatif, le mouvement d'éjection pouvant aussi être issu d'un actionneur supplémentaire. Ce mouvement d'éjection peut notamment être généré soit par une réaction d'appui sur la structure de la tête de coupe solidaire du boîtier 2, soit sur le boîtier 2 , soit par le dispositif supportant le dispositif de manipulation.Control devices can then dock the box 2 and then operate S13 the clamping assemblies 3 in order to move the side wedges 36 from their clamping position to their retracted position by them. bringing together thanks to the actuators 8. The wheel 10 and the clamping assemblies 3 are then disengaged from the housing 2 and can be extracted S14 by an ejection effect generated by the end of the maneuvering movement of the clamping assemblies 3. This principle does not is not limiting, the ejection movement can also come from an additional actuator. This ejection movement can in particular be generated either by a bearing reaction on the structure of the cutting head integral with the housing 2, or on the housing 2, or by the device supporting the handling device.

Pour que la molette 10 soit manipulable pour son extraction S13, l'ensemble des éléments solidaires de la molette 10 doivent de préférence être immobiles les uns par rapport aux autres pour former un bloc rigide. A cet effet, les ensembles de bridage 3 peuvent être mis en contrainte de telle manière que les pièces des ensembles de bridage 3 deviennent immobiles les unes par rapport aux autres, par exemple en maintenant l'actionneur 38 en position par rapport à l'embase 30 alors que les cales latérales 36 sont en position escamotée.So that the wheel 10 can be handled for its extraction S13, all the elements integral with the wheel 10 must preferably be stationary with respect to one another to form a rigid block. For this purpose, the clamping assemblies 3 can be put under stress in such a way that the parts of the clamping assemblies 3 become stationary with respect to each other, for example by keeping the actuator 38 in position relative to the base. 30 while the side wedges 36 are in the retracted position.

Lors de l'extraction S14, un effort relativement important peut être nécessaire du fait de l'arc-boutement résultant principalement des contraintes en fonctionnement qui coincent la molette 10 dans son boîtier 2.During the extraction S14, a relatively large force may be necessary because of the buttress resulting mainly from the operating stresses which jam the wheel 10 in its housing 2.

Le dispositif de manipulation de la molette 10 comprend donc des éléments d'extraction (par exemple des vérins ou vibreurs) qui permettent d'exercer la force d'extraction et de décollement nécessaire. Le cas échéant, l'arc-boutement peut être réduit en formant des faces de dépouille dans les parois latérales 20 et les faces 21, 24 du boîtier 2 sur le chemin de la molette 10 lors de son mouvement d'extraction.The device for handling the wheel 10 therefore comprises extraction elements (for example jacks or vibrators) which make it possible to exert the necessary extraction and detachment force. If necessary, the arching can be reduced by forming relief faces in the side walls 20 and the faces 21, 24 of the housing 2 in the path of the wheel 10 during its extraction movement.

Enfin, le dispositif de manipulation peut être retiré S15 et l'assemblage comprenant les ensembles de bridage 3 et la molette 10 peut être acheminé jusqu'à l'atelier où la molette 10 usagée est démontée.Finally, the handling device can be removed S15 and the assembly comprising the clamping assemblies 3 and the wheel 10 can be taken to the workshop where the used wheel 10 is removed.

On notera qu'à tout moment avant, pendant ou après l'étape d'extraction S1, des sous-phases de nettoyage, par exemple par des jets d'eau à haute pression, peuvent être mises en œuvre de manière à pouvoir assurer la propreté des faces d'appui du porte-outil 1 lors de la réception de la nouvelle molette 10.It will be noted that at any time before, during or after the extraction step S1, cleaning sub-phases, for example by jets water at high pressure, can be implemented so as to be able to ensure the cleanliness of the bearing faces of the tool holder 1 when receiving the new wheel 10.

On peut en outre procéder à un nettoyage du dispositif de manipulation avant de le réutiliser pour mettre en place une nouvelle molette 10.In addition, the handling device can be cleaned before it is reused to fit a new wheel 10.

La mise en place S2 d'une molette 10 de remplacement dans le boîtier 2 peut être mise en œuvre au cours des étapes suivantes.The placement S2 of a replacement wheel 10 in the housing 2 can be implemented during the following steps.

Dans un premier temps, dans l'atelier, on fixe les ensembles de bridage 3 sur la molette 10, par exemple par vissage de l'embase 32 sur les faces latérales 12 de la molette 10. Le dispositif de manipulation peut alors saisir S21 la molette 10 avec l'élément de préhension du dispositif de manipulation mentionné plus haut.First, in the workshop, the clamping assemblies 3 are fixed on the wheel 10, for example by screwing the base 32 on the lateral faces 12 of the wheel 10. The handling device can then grip S21 the wheel 10 with the gripping element of the handling device mentioned above.

Pour que la molette 10 soit manipulable, les différentes pièces des ensembles de bridage 3 sont de préférence rendues immobiles les unes par rapport aux autres pour qu'elles constituent un bloc rigide. Par ailleurs, les cales latérales 36 sont amenées en position escamotée, afin de ne pas entraver l'introduction de la molette 10 dans le boîtier 2.So that the wheel 10 can be handled, the different parts of the clamping assemblies 3 are preferably made stationary with respect to one another so that they constitute a rigid block. Furthermore, the side wedges 36 are brought into the retracted position, so as not to hinder the introduction of the wheel 10 into the housing 2.

Le dispositif de manipulation supportant la molette 10 et les ensembles de bridage 3 est alors amené en vis-à-vis de la face arrière 24 du boîtier 2.The handling device supporting the wheel 10 and the clamping assemblies 3 is then brought opposite the rear face 24 of the housing 2.

Une fois en position centrée sur le boîtier 2, le dispositif de manipulation est bridé S22 sur celui-ci par ses éléments de verrouillage.Once in the centered position on the housing 2, the handling device is clamped S22 on the latter by its locking elements.

L'élément de préhension du dispositif de manipulation est alors avancé S23 pour insérer la molette 10 munie des ensembles de bridage 3 dans la chambre 21 du boîtier 2 jusqu'à ce qu'elle arrive en butée contre la face avant 22 du boîtier.The gripping element of the handling device is then advanced S23 to insert the wheel 10 provided with the clamping assemblies 3 in the chamber 21 of the housing 2 until it comes into abutment against the front face 22 of the housing.

Optionnellement, grâce à des logements agencés dans les faces internes des parois latérales 20 du boîtier 2, la molette 10 est automatiquement centrée par rapport à celui-ci. La forme des logements peut en outre être prévue pour procurer des surfaces d'appui pour les extrémités de l'arbre de la molette 10 dans la partie avant du boîtier 2. Par ailleurs, le boîtier 2 peut en outre comprendre des moyens 30 formant butée disposés dans une zone adjacente à la face avant 12, adaptés pour limiter la course de la molette 10 dans le boîtier 2 lors de son insertion S23. Par exemple, sur les figures 4a et 4b, les moyens 30 formant butée comprennent deux vis, fixées dans les parois latérales opposées 20 du boîtier 2 dans lesquelles sont formées les empreintes 26, au voisinage de la face avant 12. Les vis 30 sont configurées pour former une butée d'arrêt et entrer en contact avec les embases 32 lorsque la molette ù10 est insérée S23 dans le boîtier 32, ce qui permet de garantir que la molette 10 ne soit pas trop avancée par rapport à la face avant 12 du boîtier et que les cales latérales 36 se trouvent bien en regard de leur empreinte 26 correspondante.Optionally, thanks to the housings arranged in the internal faces of the side walls 20 of the housing 2, the wheel 10 is automatically centered in relation to it. The shape of the housings can furthermore be provided to provide bearing surfaces for the ends of the shaft of the wheel 10 in the front part of the housing 2. Furthermore, the housing 2 can further comprise means 30 forming a stopper. arranged in an area adjacent to the front face 12, adapted to limit the travel of the wheel 10 in the housing 2 during its insertion S23. For example, on figures 4a and 4b , the means 30 forming a stopper comprise two screws, fixed in the opposite side walls 20 of the housing 2 in which the indentations 26 are formed, in the vicinity of the front face 12. The screws 30 are configured to form a stopper and enter. in contact with the bases 32 when the wheel ù10 is inserted S23 in the housing 32, which ensures that the wheel 10 is not too far forward with respect to the front face 12 of the housing and that the side wedges 36 are properly located next to their corresponding imprint 26.

Dans une forme de réalisation, une fois les moyens 30 formant butée atteints par la molette 10, celle-ci peut être légèrement reculée afin de ne pas rester en contact avec lesdits moyens 30 lorsque l'ensemble de coupe 5 est en fonctionnement, et d'éviter de générer des efforts susceptibles de parasiter la précontrainte appliquée par les ensembles de bridage 3 en position de bridage. En variante, ce léger recul peut être généré par le profil des appuis des moyens 30 formant butée sur les embases 32.In one embodiment, once the stop-forming means 30 have been reached by the wheel 10, the latter can be retracted slightly so as not to remain in contact with said means 30 when the cutting assembly 5 is in operation, and d 'avoid generating forces liable to interfere with the pre-stress applied by the clamping assemblies 3 in the clamping position. As a variant, this slight decline can be generated by the profile of the supports of the means 30 forming a stop on the bases 32.

Des dispositifs de commande peuvent alors accoster le boîtier 2 puis manœuvrer les ensembles de bridage 3 afin de déplacer les cales latérales 36 de leur position escamotée vers leur position de bridage S24 en les faisant basculer transversalement grâce aux actionneurs 8. A cet effet, un effort de rotation est appliqué à l'écrou 38, afin de l'amener en bout de course et d'engager les cales latérales 36 dans l'empreinte 26 en regard du boîtier 2. De préférence, le couple de serrage appliqué par le à l'écrou 38 en position de bridage est suffisant pour que les cales latérales 36 appliquent une pré-contrainte au boîtier 2 capable de supporter les vibrations sévères, même en terrain dur.Control devices can then approach the housing 2 and then maneuver the clamping assemblies 3 in order to move the lateral wedges 36 from their retracted position to their clamping position S24 by causing them to tilt transversely by means of the actuators 8. For this purpose, a force of rotation is applied to the nut 38, in order to bring it to the end of its travel and to engage the lateral wedges 36 in the recess 26 facing the housing 2. Preferably, the tightening torque applied by the to the 'nut 38 in the clamping position is sufficient for the side shims 36 apply a pre-stress to the housing 2 capable of withstanding severe vibrations, even in hard terrain.

La molette 10 et les ensembles de bridage 3 sont alors engagés dans le boîtier 2 et maintenus fermement dans cette position.The wheel 10 and the clamping assemblies 3 are then engaged in the housing 2 and held firmly in this position.

La mise en place de la molette 10 avec précontrainte étant achevée, on détache alors le dispositif de manipulation (dispositifs de commande, élément de préhension et éléments de verrouillage).Once the setting of the thumbwheel 10 with prestressing is completed, the handling device (control devices, gripping element and locking elements) is then detached.

Claims (12)

  1. A clamping set (3) of a cutting assembly (5) for a tunnel boring machine, configured to be removably mounted on a roller cutter (10) in a housing (2), and comprising:
    ■ a base plate (32), adapted to be attached to the roller cutter (10) in the housing (2), said roller cutter (10) remaining rotatably free about its axis of rotation (X), and
    ■ a centre wedge (34) and two side wedges (36), the clamping set (3) being characterised in that the centre wedge (34) is movably mounted on the base plate (32) and in that both side wedges (36) are mounted on the base plate (32) and the centre wedge (34) by being hinged thereto between a retracted position, wherein the side wedges (36) are retracted and enable the clamping set (3) to be removed from the housing (2), and a clamping position, wherein the side wedges (36) swing and fit into a cavity (26) facing the housing (2) in order to prevent the clamping set (3) from being extracted from the housing (2).
  2. The clamping set (3) according to claim 1, further comprising a stud bolt (39), mounted on the base plate (32), and an actuating nut (38), mounted on the one hand on the centre wedge (34) and on the other hand on the stud bolt (39), such that screwing or unscrewing said actuating nut (38) causes the translation of the centre wedge (34) with respect to the base plate (32) and the side wedges (36) to be moved between their retracted position and their clamping position.
  3. The clamping set (3) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein:
    - the side wedges (36) are rotatably mounted about an axis (Y) on the base plate (32) or on the centre wedge (34), and each comprise an actuating pin (37), and
    - two guide grooves (35) are formed in the centre wedge (34) or in the base plate (32) respectively, said guide grooves (35) defining cam surfaces for the actuating pins (37),
    each actuating pin (37) being accommodated in a guide groove (35) such that the movement of the centre wedge (34) with respect to the base plate (32) causes the movement of the actuating pin (37) along the guide groove (35) and thus the rotation of the side wedge (36) with respect to the base plate (30) between its retracted position and its clamping position.
  4. The clamping set (3) according to claim 3, wherein the side wedges (36) are rotatably mounted on the base plate (32) and the guide grooves (35) are formed in the centre wedge (34).
  5. The clamping set (3) according to one of claims 3 or 4, wherein the axis (Y) of rotation of the side wedges (36) is substantially parallel to the axis of rotation (X) of the roller cutter (10).
  6. The clamping set (3) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the side wedges (36) and the centre wedge (34) comprise associated support faces (36a, 34a), configured to be engaged when the side wedges (36) are in the clamping position in order to withstand strains passing through the clamping sets (3) and stabilize said clamping sets (3).
  7. The clamping set (3) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the side wedges (36) extend substantially symmetrically with respect to the base plate (32).
  8. A cutter holder (1) for a tunnel boring machine, said cutter holder (1) being adapted to accommodate a roller cutter (10) freely rotatably mounted about an axis of rotation (X) in said cutter holder (1) and comprising:
    - a housing (2), defining a chamber (21) arranged to accommodate the roller cutter (10), said housing (2) comprising two cavities (26) formed in opposite walls (20) of the chamber (21), and
    - two clamping sets (3) according to one of claims 1 to 7, said clamping sets (3) being configured to be removably mounted on either side of the roller cutter (10) in the housing (2).
  9. The cutter holder (1) according to claim 8, wherein the housing (2) further comprises four additional cavities (28) each respectively in the opposite side walls (20) between the cavities (26) and the front face (22) of the housing (2), each adapted to receive a further side wedge (36) distinct from the clamping sets (3).
  10. The cutter holder (1) according to one of claims 8 or 9, wherein the housing further comprises a side wedging system (40), attached to one of the opposite side walls (20) of the chamber (21), adapted to apply a side strain to the housing (2).
  11. The cutting set (5) for a tunnel boring machine, comprising a roller cutter (10) and a cutter holder (1) according to one of claims 8 to 10, the roller cutter (10) being attached in the cutter holder (1) .
  12. A method for replacing (S) a roller cutter (10) of a cutting set (5) for a tunnel boring machine according to claim 11, characterised in that it comprises the steps of:
    (i) extracting (S1) a used roller cutter (10) from the housing (2), comprising the following steps of:
    - docking and clamping (S11) on the housing (2) of a handling device adapted for grasping and guiding the roller cutter (10),
    - grasping (S12) the clamping sets (3) and/or the roller cutter (10) by the handling device,
    - releasing (S13) the clamping applied to the clamping set (3) and the housing (2),
    - extracting (S14) the roller cutter (10) from the housing (2),
    - removing (S15) the handling device from the housing (2),
    (ii) installing (S2) in said housing (2) a replacement roller cutter (10), comprising the following steps of:
    - grasping (S21) the clamping sets (3) and/or the roller cutter (10) by the handling device,
    - docking and clamping (S22) the handling device on the housing (2),
    - inserting (S23) the roller cutter (10) into the housing (2), said roller cutter (10) being guided by the handling device,
    - operating (S24) the clamping sets (3) of the roller cutter (10), so as to accommodate the side wedges (36) in the cavities (26) of the housing (2).
EP14799127.7A 2013-11-04 2014-11-04 Cutting tool holder for a tunnel-boring machine and associated cutting assembly Active EP3066303B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
HRP20210730TT HRP20210730T1 (en) 2013-11-04 2021-05-11 Cutting tool holder for a tunnel-boring machine and associated cutting assembly

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR1360802A FR3012843B1 (en) 2013-11-04 2013-11-04 CUTTING TOOL HOLDER FOR TUNNELIER AND ASSOCIATED CUTTING ASSEMBLY
PCT/EP2014/073690 WO2015063322A2 (en) 2013-11-04 2014-11-04 Cutting tool holder for a tunnel-boring machine and associated cutting assembly

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP3066303A2 EP3066303A2 (en) 2016-09-14
EP3066303B1 true EP3066303B1 (en) 2021-02-17

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP14799127.7A Active EP3066303B1 (en) 2013-11-04 2014-11-04 Cutting tool holder for a tunnel-boring machine and associated cutting assembly

Country Status (12)

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US (1) US10174615B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3066303B1 (en)
JP (1) JP6408018B2 (en)
KR (1) KR102310410B1 (en)
AU (1) AU2014343619B2 (en)
CA (1) CA2929448C (en)
DK (1) DK3066303T3 (en)
ES (1) ES2867032T3 (en)
FR (1) FR3012843B1 (en)
HK (1) HK1225777A1 (en)
HR (1) HRP20210730T1 (en)
WO (1) WO2015063322A2 (en)

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FR3027337A1 (en) * 2014-10-16 2016-04-22 Nfm Tech SYSTEM FOR FASTENING A WHEEL ON A TUNNELING CUTTING HEAD AND TUNNELIER COMPRISING SUCH A FIXING SYSTEM
EP3368745B1 (en) * 2015-10-28 2020-02-12 The Robbins Company Cutter assembly with inline mounting
US10539017B2 (en) 2017-03-10 2020-01-21 The Robbins Company Cutter housing with field-replaceable seats
US10480318B2 (en) * 2017-05-18 2019-11-19 The Robbins Company Cutter housing with inline mounting
CN108119155A (en) * 2017-12-20 2018-06-05 中交第四航务工程局有限公司 Shield machine disk cutter installation locking system
CN109854268B (en) * 2019-01-23 2024-03-15 中铁大桥科学研究院有限公司 Push-out type super-excavation hob device of tunnel boring machine and hob adjusting method
CN110080788A (en) * 2019-06-06 2019-08-02 中国铁建重工集团股份有限公司 A kind of shield machine roller cutter girff device
DE102019123630B3 (en) * 2019-09-04 2020-08-13 Herrenknecht Aktiengesellschaft Device for holding a cutting roller, cutting wheel with a device for holding a cutting roller and tunnel boring machine with a cutting wheel having a device for holding a cutting roller
JP2021113478A (en) * 2020-01-21 2021-08-05 川崎重工業株式会社 Adjusting method for position of roller cutter
CN113356867B (en) * 2021-04-26 2023-05-09 中国建筑股份有限公司 Shield tunneling machine cutterhead, hob used on shield tunneling machine cutterhead and shield tunneling machine
CN115450638B (en) * 2022-08-30 2024-05-10 盾构及掘进技术国家重点实验室 Quick tool changing mechanism for shield TBM tunneling and matched mounting and dismounting test tool rest

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ES2867032T3 (en) 2021-10-20
HRP20210730T1 (en) 2021-06-25
JP6408018B2 (en) 2018-10-17
WO2015063322A3 (en) 2015-10-29
EP3066303A2 (en) 2016-09-14
DK3066303T3 (en) 2021-05-25
AU2014343619A1 (en) 2016-05-26
FR3012843A1 (en) 2015-05-08
US10174615B2 (en) 2019-01-08
KR102310410B1 (en) 2021-10-07
WO2015063322A2 (en) 2015-05-07
HK1225777A1 (en) 2017-09-15
AU2014343619B2 (en) 2017-12-21
CA2929448A1 (en) 2015-05-07
JP2016539265A (en) 2016-12-15
KR20160078488A (en) 2016-07-04
FR3012843B1 (en) 2018-10-26
US20160273358A1 (en) 2016-09-22
CA2929448C (en) 2021-08-31

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