Complex Variable Solutions for Tunneling-Induced Ground Movement

Abstract

Soil loss during tunneling may induce the ground deformation. The loss volume depends on tunneling methods, soil types, workmanship, etc. The movement pattern along the tunnel section can be separated into two parts: one part of which focuses on the planed center of the tunnel, and the other translates in the vertical direction. On the basis of the complex variable theory for elasticity, the corresponding second part movement could be deduced if the first part is predetermined. This paper studies the ground deformations under four possible focusing movement patterns. A comparison between the solutions and measured data is conducted for five different tunnels. It is proposed that the third focusing movement pattern could be presumed for predicting tunneling-induced ground deformation.