Model Experiment On The Interaction Between Submerged Floating Tunnel And Current

Many mixed crossing of waterways have been built, such as bridge, pontoon bridge, floating bridge, bored tunnels, and immersed tunnels. In the case of long distance between the shores, deep-water, difficult sea circumstances, the conventional structures are not feasible. Submerged floating tunnel (SFT) represents a new concept for crossing deep water. This type of structure can provide a connection for land traffic to strait crossing. An SFT is not an embedded structure, but instead is suspended above the sea floor, anchored by a support system by anchoring to the water bed.This paper introduces some basic theories of current in brief, presents some essential principles and similarity laws on the model test ,and then makes a systematic exposition of the advantages and disadvantages on model test. At the same time , theoretical research of the combined action of wave and flow on submerged floating tunnel is carried out based on the summary of wave-current action character and wave-current calculation theory. To simulate the vibrations of submerged floating tunnels in a calm sea with a steady current, the dynamic response of models in unidirectional flows is investigated experimentally. The models were placed in a circulating water pond horizontally and normal to the direction of current flow. This paper also deals with the current force characteristics and dynamic behavior to the submerged floating tunnels with numerical calculation (2-D) by mean of Finite Element Method(FEM) .Then some conclusions can be drawn ,which are the impact rules of submerged floating tunnels suffered by current. There is a good agreement between the experimental results and the numerical results.Being an original tunnel style, the conception of submerged floating tunnel came into being for only ten years. By far, the submerged floating tunnel still remains in the conception design stage. However, the submerged floating tunnel indicates huge competitive power to ease the cross-sea traffic, environment protection and low cost.Because of the complex environment , few people have some acquaintance with the submerged floating tunnel. So the technique of the submerged floating tunnel is well worth studying. Some useful conclusions on the mechanics and deformation rules of submerged floating tunnels are gained by modelexperimental study and 2-D numerical analysis, which will be used for reference on the design and calculation of submerged floating tunnels in the future.