Assistant AI in tunnel construction
At STUVA’s International Tunnel Forum, experts discussed digitalisation and AI in tunnel construction – from planning through to execution.
Experts discussed digitalisation and artificial intelligence in tunnel construction and operation at the STUVA International Tunnel Forum. Photo: Messe Berlin
“Digital construction” is the motto of Schüßler-Plan Digital in Düsseldorf. The engineering firm’s digital division operates at the interface between the construction industry and modern IT. At the International Tunnel Forum organised by STUVA (Studiengesellschaft für unterirdische Verkehrsanlagen), its managing partner, Dr.-Ing. Andreas Bach, explained how digitalisation and AI are driving the industry forward.
One example is data from the cloud or BIM (Building Information Modelling), which can be structured using AI. It helps to analyse images and diagrams, as well as to generate and summarise reports. AI can also support in-house knowledge management. Furthermore, complex software can be controlled via voice commands using a chat function.
Safety and faster decision-making
Dr.-Ing. Frank Abel, Head of Operations for Austria and the UK and Head of Tunnel Construction at Hochtief Infrastructure AG in Essen, spoke about the practical application and future prospects of digital construction processes in tunnel construction. Although, according to a McKinsey study, the construction sector ranks among the least digitised industries, some processes have already become established – such as laser scans for documenting projects.
Among other things, he hopes that AI will lead to improvements in health and safety. The immersive TOUGH Training platform is suitable for training and reduces the risk of accidents. Digital twins allow construction projects to be placed within the real environment, which simplifies decision-making. The AI-supported analysis of logs also helps to identify anomalies and enables early corrective action.
According to Frank Abel, the industry will be better equipped to tackle future challenges thanks to AI, provided that all stakeholders get involved. This development has only just begun.
Order in the tunnel
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Gerhard Wehrmeyer, Head of Product Management for Traffic Tunnelling at Herrenknecht AG in Schwanau, shared some impressive videos of tunnel-boring machines. Even today, many tasks involved in the production of segmental rings – concrete components used to reinforce the tunnel bore – are carried out by robots. Their transfer is also carried out partly autonomously.
In a project funded by STUVA, the analysis of demolition material using AI is currently being tested, which could facilitate recycling.
Clemens Oberschmied, Product Owner for Digital Engineering at Rhomberg Sersa Bahntechnik in Bregenz, Austria, provided an insight into the construction of the Semmering Base Tunnel. The approximately 20 subcontractors perform the registration of their work on a daily basis via a web app. They can also track their deliveries digitally. In this way, the company lives up to its philosophy: digitalisation creates efficiency.
All the speakers agreed that a critical eye must be kept on the results of AI systems. Employees should be brought along with the rapid pace of development and supported in their productivity.
Dr.-Ing. Andreas Bach of Schüßler-Plan Digital explained at the STUVA International Tunnel Forum how AI and digital processes can support tunnel construction. Photo: Messe Berlin