ABSTRACT
Digitalisation is becoming increasingly important in civil engineering disciplines, particularly in tunnelling and geotechnics. Despite significant advances in numerical modelling of underground structures, substantial engineering effort is still expended on multiple rounds of modelling and parametric design. Consequently, optimisation is often constrained by the available time and resources for each project. The objective of our project, titled “Digital Optimisation in Tunnelling” (DOT), is to develop a digital tool for the automation of numerical modelling in tunnelling and geotechnics. The DOT project aims to automate the process of preparing input data, conducting batch analyses, and performing preliminary interpretation of results. This involves developing digital tools using Python coding to be used in combination with finite element models. By streamlining these procedures, the tool is designed to enhance productivity and offer a broader range of optimisation opportunities to clients. Our digital optimisation tool will not only reduce the time and resources required for modelling but also improve the accuracy and efficiency of design processes in underground construction projects. The development and implementation of such a tool could revolutionise the way engineers approach tunnelling projects, leading to more efficient and cost-effective solutions.
