TUnIS brings together established navigation technologies including machine guidance with laser and target, hydrostatic level, gyroscope and moving laser total station. This solution enables the user to make simple and uncomplicated changes between each navigation mode to optimise every stage of a microtunnelling project. It can even switch to segmental tunnelling because VMT’s own solutions for large tunnel projects are based on the same platform. Conceived to improve flexibility for increasingly complex tunnelling projects, TUnIS was developed with input from customers and users.

The ability to select the most appropriate technology depending on the conditions of the advance or project means that scheduled downtime for navigation system calibration is significantly reduced. An integrated correction curve also offers the shield operator unparalleled control over the machine, especially when larger-than-expected deviations from the target position occur. This results in smoother and more precise machine control with positive impact on pressing forces, pipe stress and overall tunnel quality. The time-consuming use of intermediate jacking stations is also greatly reduced.

TUnIS Navigation MT performs numerous redundant calculations to detect tunnelling process issues early, ensuring the final position of the pipes meets project quality requirements. Alternative calculations monitor the performance of the electronic hose water level in the all-rounder gyro system and provide alerts for potential pipe flotation in the expert laser total station system.

The new network-based hardware platform MT.Connect is built using the latest technology and features an internal diagnostic tool that continuously monitors the status of each device and provides a detailed analysis of all connected components. This reduces hardware components to a minimum, simplifying handling and spare parts management. Close cooperation with our partners Jackcontrol and Atcetera opens new pathways and provides synergies by integrating various trades and functions.

Cross-system data management creates transparency: the open industry standard OPC UA, which underpins the MT.Connect platform, simplifies bidirectional communication with applications from other manufacturers. A variety of modern devices can be integrated into the chosen high-data rate network infrastructure. Whether it’s smartphones, network cameras or AR (Augmented Reality) tools, they all use the tunnel’s WLAN, enabling quick, solution-oriented support on-site.

Communication by modern technology helps to achieve today’s standards and project requirements and it will continue to evolve to meet future challenges.