The history of VMT navigation systems
How did it all start? What happened between the initial concept of a control system for pipe jacking in a pub in Bruchsal in 1994 and our 2,700th projects worldwide?
Although our product and service portfolio has significantly expanded over the three decades of VMT’s history, our navigation systems have been at the core of our business activities from the outset and continue to be so today. They are essential for every precise tunnelling project – yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Our systems evolve in response to the growing demands of modern tunnelling projects and set benchmarks for international tenders.
Let’s experience the milestones in our 30-year development history together…
The initial SLS-RV prototype was deployed on a construction site in Zürich for the Gießen-Lyren project for the joint venture “ARGE Abwassersammler”. This marked the first practical application of VMT’s navigation system technology.
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Key aspects:
- Geodimeter 620 tachymeter
- Custom interface box
- ELS laser target
- Kontron PC with floppy drive
Notably, portions of the software were developed on-site directly within the shaft. This approach allowed for immediate testing and refinement of the system under real-world conditions.
The first large diameter tunnelling project featuring the SLS-T system was implemented on the Jubilee Line in London.
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Key aspects:
- Navigation for segmental lining using the SLS-T system
- Third-party software ACS-II (Tacs) based on Windows 3.11
- VMT hardware, including a custom interface box
- Comprehensive service, training, and commissioning provided by VMT
This project underscored VMT’s capability to integrate and support advanced navigation systems, ensuring precise and reliable performance in complex tunnelling environments.
A significant milestone in VMT’s navigation history was the collaborative development of a new tachymeter. This partnership between VMT and Leica resulted in a cutting-edge solution tailored for advanced tunnelling applications.
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Key aspects:
- Joint development of the Leica TPS 1000 tachymeter with GUS 64 laser inside
- Integration of VMT’s expertise in tunnelling with Leica’s precision measurement technology
This collaboration exemplified VMT’s commitment to innovation and partnership, leading to the creation of a robust and reliable system that has set new standards in tunnelling navigation and measurement.
Following the development of the TPS 1000, the system was successfully used for the first time in two different projects, replacing the Geodimeter.
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Key aspects:
- First large diameter tunnelling project with the new tachymeter: Heinenoord, Netherlands
- First microtunnelling project with the Leica tachymeter: Regensburg/Burgweinting, Germany
The integration of the Leica TPS 1000 tachymeter, specifically developed for VMT, represented a new main component in our control systems.
VMT has achieved a significant milestone with the implementation of the first fully integrated SLS-RV system in a Herrenknecht TBM in the North of England, enhancing precision and efficiency in tunnelling operations.
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Key aspects:
- Combination of advanced navigation technologies into a single, cohesive system, improving accuracy and operational efficiency
- Utilisation of robust components and open interfaces, ensuring long-term reliability and adaptability to future needs
This development underscored VMT’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving demands of the tunnelling industry, engineered for the future.
VMT has developed the “Yellowbox,” an innovative interface box featuring a tachymeter cable drum, enhancing connectivity and efficiency in tunnelling operations.
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Key aspects:
- Easy connection of tachymeters, streamlining data transfer and improving operational efficiency with the “Yellowbox”
- Simplified setup and reduced need for extensive cabling, contributing to cost savings and easier maintenance
This development underscored VMT’s commitment to providing smart solutions that meet the evolving demands of the tunnelling industry.
In 1998, VMT developed its first Windows-based navigation software for a tunnel boring machine. The first implementation including commissioning took place in Cairo.
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Key aspects:
- Windows-based navigation software developed by VMT
- Combination of the software with a CAP system
- Comprehensive service and support provided by VMT
The dedicated team only needed six weeks of continuous, focussed work for the development.
The Val Viola project in 1999 was the first to use VMT’s navigation system for a Double Shield machine, named SLS-T, on a Wirth machine.
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Key aspects:
- Navigation system SLS-T for DS machine
- First cascading target system ELS (Electronic Laser System) in use
An important step for VMT towards becoming a market leader for TBM navigation.
VMT has achieved a milestone with the development of a prism system for the first Herrenknecht Gripper Machine, designed for the Tscharner project in Switzerland.
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Key aspects:
- Enhanced accuracy of navigation and alignment in gripper machines, ensuring precise tunnelling operations
- Tailored for the unique requirements of the HK Gripper Machine
- Seamless integration with existing technologies
This development highlights VMT’s commitment to expanding its product range, offering innovative solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of the tunnelling industry.
The Sophiaspoor Tunnel project, in collaboration with Herrenknecht AG, implemented a complete, redundant double system for continuous tunnelling.
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Key aspects:
- Redundant double navigation system
- Continuous tunnelling support
- Comprehensive service and training by VMT
Unlike conventional machines, the TBM system, with individually controlled thrust cylinders and simultaneous ring construction during advancement, allows for up to 50 percent higher tunnelling performance.