Abstract: An improved access tower for use in the manufacture of tunnel modules and tunnel sections for building underwater tunnel tubes is provided. The tower is positioned at one end of the tunnel module shells when they are placed on pedestals for rotation and further processing. Assembly of the support framework around the shell is conducted from the top position on the shells. A moveable bridge extends from the tower for access to the top of the shell.

Abstract: This invention relates to improved apparatus and process for manufacture of tunnel modules and tunnel sections used to build underwater tunnel tubes. A collapsible fixture is used to roll up a steel plate into a cylindrical shell. Cables wrapped around channels on the outer ends of fixtures are used to roll up the fixture along the plate. After the fixture with the shell on it is placed on pedestals for further fabrication, cables placed in the channels are used to rotate the shells. After the fixture is collapsed within the shell, it is raised up by pedestal lifting mechanisms, and wheels provided on the fixture are lowered into place to aid in removal of the fixture from the shell, and onto a roll-out table. Roller mechanisms are also used to aid in the removal of the fixture from the shell. The roll-out table is situated between two sets of pedestals and used in the removal of fixtures from single modules or sets of modules.

Abstract: This invention relates to improved apparatus and process for manufacture of tunnel modules and tunnel sections used to build underwater tunnel tubes. A collapsible fixture is situated to roll up flat steel plate into a circular shell for the tunnel modules. A hydraulic cylinder is utilized to adjust the diameter of the fixture without collapsing it, in order to close any gaps between the ends of the plate when it is rolled into a shell.