Some Experiences of Modelling Tunnelling in Soft Ground Using Three-Dimensional Finite Elements

A three-dimensional finite element model has been developed at Oxford University to study the effects of subsidence from soft ground tunnelling on adjacent surface structures. Simulation of excavation and the ground loss associated with tunnelling are incorporated in the model. Surface buildings are also included, as groups of interconnected two-dimensional facades composed of an elastic no tension material, to model masonry. This paper describes the development, implementation and performance of procedures to model the tunnelling processes. A description is also given of the methods used to generate the finite element meshes and to post-process the data.