Monitoring deformation of small scale model tunnels under load testing

This paper describes a study to assess the suitability of two non-contact methods of measurement used to monitor a series of small scale model tunnels built to different specifications that are being subjected to load testing. The model tunnels are being built to validate mathematical modelling techniques. Presented here are the results to assess the suitability and quality of survey results based on photogrammetry and laser scanning. The two key parameters to be measured are the deformation that is created in the tunnel (distance measurement) and the length and width of cracks. Results showed that both the remote measurement techniques were suitable for the measurement of the small model tunnels and compared well against appropriate potentiometer and vernier calliper measurements.