Abstract: A tunnel boring machine is provided comprising a cutter head, a main beam, a first, second, and third shield; and a ground conditioning work zone within the first shield, a gripper assembly, a segment erector arm for lining the tunnel, and at least one propulsion mechanism. The ground conditioning work zone includes at least one probing device for probing the terrain ahead of the cutter head. The first shield is configured to be retracted relative to the second shield to provide access for the ground conditioning work zone to apply at least one ground support device. The at least one propulsion mechanism moves the cutter head, the first and the second shield forward while the third shield and the gripper assembly remain stationary. The ground support devices can include filling a hole with a ground conditioning agent; and placing a bolt, ring beam, mesh, or shotcrete in/on the tunnel wall.

Abstract: A tunnel boring machine is provided comprising a cutter head, a main beam, a first, second, and third shield; and a ground conditioning work zone within the first shield, a gripper assembly, a segment erector arm for lining the tunnel, and at least one propulsion mechanism. The ground conditioning work zone includes at least one probing device for probing the terrain ahead of the cutter head. The first shield is configured to be retracted relative to the second shield to provide access for the ground conditioning work zone to apply at least one ground support device. The at least one propulsion mechanism moves the cutter head, the first and the second shield forward while the third shield and the gripper assembly remain stationary. The ground support devices can include filling a hole with a ground conditioning agent; and placing a bolt, ring beam, mesh, or shotcrete in/on the tunnel wall.