Integration of construction field data and geotechnical analyses

Urban excavation includes complex engineering issues such as construction methods, support systems, base stability, ground deformations, groundwater control, and influence on adjacent structures. Additionally, the expansion of urbanization over the years has been generating an increasing demand for underground space. Open cuts and tunnels have long been used to create such urban underground space, but as the demand for underground space grows, those excavation issues become even greater concerns. One of the greatest concerns when constructing underground space, beyond conducting it in a timely and cost effective manner while maintaining a safe environment onsite, is the impact of ground movements related to construction activities. This paper presents the preliminary results of a research project which utilizes 3D laser scanning technology to provide accurate 3D as-built construction data for geotechnical analyses. Funded by NSF, this project explores the integration of construction field data into geotechnical monitoring and forecasting that may potentially reduce the impacts of urban deep excavations. The accurate 3D geometry data and construction sequences provide new possibilities for geotechnical analyses at a higher precision.