Numerical computation of support characteristic curves for use in tunnel support design and their application to the characteristic curve method

Abstract

In this note, support characteristic curves were derived through numerical analysis and plotted by the characteristic curve method, and the applicability of support characteristic curves was considered. As a result, it was shown that for elastic ground, a state of equilibrium can be obtained at the point of intersection of the ground characteristic curve and the support property curve as in the characteristic curve method, and that the influence of support stiffness on the stress release ratio can be taken into account. For elastoplastic ground, however, a state of equilibrium did not occur at the point of intersection. It was also shown that one reason for this is that the influence of the passage of the tunnel face and the influence of the excavation method are not reflected in the ground characteristic curve in the characteristic curve method.