UTILITIES | TRENCHLESS
Jürgen Göckel explains the Main Control Unit. This box outside the tunnel houses the central computer and the router for a dedicated internet connection. PHOTO CREDIT: B_I/ZU EULENBURG
firefighters and rescue teams to be integrated into tunnel communication using normal smartphones, adds Küsters. “With TunnelHub, we can provide the rescue teams
Below: Everything in view from the control cabin: In addition to a camera in the launch shaft and two in the tunnel,
I.CO.P. requested an additional camera, for example at the separation plant, to monitor material discharge. PHOTO CREDIT: VMT
with an interface that enables optimal organisation and coordination of their operations.” This also expands the possibilities for developing safety and rescue concepts together with emergency services. Küsters argues that the definition of tunnel accessibility should not be tied to fixed formulas or diameters but rather to the available safety concepts. “In this context, TunnelHub is a way to ensure a very high safety level even in smaller diameters.”
TECHNOLOGY IN FOCUS The technology also enables the transmission of real-time video from the tunnel. Two cameras can
be connected to each access point every 50m. “There is basically no area in the tunnel that you
couldn’t observe if you wanted to,” says Göckel. From the control cabin, devices such as pumps, power packs or interjack stations can be visually monitored during active tunnelling. Küsters adds: “Normally, inspections of machine
components by personnel can only take place when tunnel operations are shut down. TunnelHub closes this gap by allowing comprehensive monitoring of this equipment even during full operation.” Another aspect of improved efficiency is the
reduction of unnecessary trips into and out of the tunnel, for example during surveying, maintenance or repair work. The Smart units on the data cables can also generate visual and acoustic alarms. These are triggered centrally on the TunnelHub control screen to initiate evacuation of the tunnel as quickly as possible in an emergency. Additional alarm spots can be installed anywhere in the tunnel, enabling alarms to be triggered from within the tunnel itself.
PRACTICAL TEST PASSED Florian Klatt describes the practical experience on site as entirely positive. “In the first drive, there were some minor teething
problems at the beginning, but these were small issues that were quickly and efficiently resolved with the VMT surveying colleague on site.” He sees the versatility and expanded modularity
of the platform, with its many options to integrate different functionalities and thus create a complete package tailored to each specific construction site, as a major advantage of TunnelHub. “My recommendation to management will be to use TunnelHub on future construction sites as well.”
Original publication in B_I umweltbau 01/2026 Minor editing in T&TI published version.
38 | March 2026
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