Trenchless construction has become a preferred method in civil and pipeline construction in recent years. Companies are increasingly turning to methods that eliminate the need for complex earthworks and open trenches. The advantages are obvious: fewer traffic disruptions, less environmental impact, faster project progress and lower overall costs. While conventional systems have already made significant progress, Stern Technic GmbH is going one step further and presenting BUDDEL , a highly innovative tool that redefines trenchless construction. In addition to mechanical and hydraulic developments, the use of machine learning is now also coming into play to make the tunneling process even smarter and more efficient.
What makes BUDDEL so special?
At its core, BUDDEL is a compact, battery-powered construction machine that can be seamlessly integrated into various trenchless construction methods. Its power is based on pneumatic muscles that generate up to 12,000 N of propulsion energy, while the comparatively low weight of the device enables high maneuverability. Propulsion takes place via specially grooved propulsion pipes that engage with one-way rotating gears with freewheel bearings in order to move specifically into the ground. An intuitive operating concept with just one on/off switch and an emergency stop button makes handling simple, safe and efficient.
But BUDDEL is not only strong and agile: The machine can operate independently or be used in combination with BOB , an additional precision module with a helix shape. BOB improves controllability in loose soils and granules, so that BUDDEL can work even more precisely and effectively. BUDDEL is also versatile: It can be used for both empty pipes and jacking pipes and offers the option of flushing through the nozzle of the drill head in order to adapt the jacking to different soil conditions.
The next evolutionary step: high water pressure for improved performance
As impressive as BUDDEL already is, Stern Technic GmbH is not resting on its laurels. A new approach impressively shows how advancement in particularly challenging soils can be further optimized: the combination of pneumatic power and high water pressure.
The difference is clear in a test video: First, BUDDEL is operated in solid topsoil without the use of high-pressure water. The progress is visible, but slow. A small air compressor (60 l output) has to switch on and off frequently to provide the required pressure, which slows down the advance.
Then the breakthrough comes: As soon as high-pressure water is switched on, the picture changes radically. The ground softens, the resistance shrinks, and BUDDEL manages to complete the entire advance in one go. The result: a significantly accelerated work process, less effort required, and an overall more efficient construction process.
The advantages of high water pressure at a glance:
1. Faster advance: The use of high-pressure water significantly accelerates the penetration of the jacking pipes, allowing solid soils to be penetrated more quickly.
2. Less effort required: With water support, the necessary propulsion pressure is reduced. The machine is protected and signs of wear are reduced. This increases the service life of BUDDEL in the long term.
3. Greater flexibility in difficult soils: Especially in solid soils, such as the topsoil shown in the video, the high water pressure makes the decisive difference. BUDDEL can now master soil conditions that could previously only be penetrated slowly or with great effort.
Challenges and further improvements
Although the use of high-pressure water already produces impressive results, Stern Technic is committed to further perfecting the system. The test video addresses some of the challenges:
• Mechanical fastening of the lid: Under high pressure, the lid of BUDDEL can buckle. Stern Technic is working on improving robustness and reliability.
• Handling the jacking pipes: Inserting and removing the pipes is currently still somewhat complicated. A damaged thread shown in the video was caused by the pipes being jammed. Simplified mechanisms, optimized thread geometries or tool-free plug-in systems could help to improve handling and prevent damage.
• Pollution and water treatment: The use of water leads to increased pollution, especially in horizontal drilling. Efficient water recovery and cleaning of the machine are key issues that Stern Technic is working on. The aim is to make the process as environmentally friendly, clean and low-maintenance as possible.
Machine Learning: Intelligence in the Underground
In addition to mechanical and hydraulic improvements, Stern Technic is increasingly relying on machine learning (ML) to make BUDDEL even more intelligent. During the advance, BUDDEL continuously collects sensor data - for example on accelerations, vibrations, inclinations, ground conditions and load profiles. With the help of ML algorithms, this data is evaluated in real time to recognize patterns and make predictions about the optimal operating mode.
• Adaptive operating modes: ML enables the operating mode of BUDDEL to be automatically adapted to the respective ground conditions. If the algorithm detects that the ground is becoming firmer, it can recommend, for example, switching on high-pressure water or adjusting the propulsion.
• Proactive maintenance: Continuous data collection and analysis allows for early detection of unusual behavior. Potential problems or signs of wear can be identified before they lead to failures. This makes maintenance planning easier and extends the service life of the machine.
• Optimized resource utilization: ML models can help to further optimize the use of water, compressed air and energy. This reduces both operating costs and the ecological footprint.
Outlook: 3D-printed plastic pipes as the next step
Another innovation that Stern Technic is currently researching is the use of plastic jacking pipes made using 3D printing. These could represent lighter, more cost-effective and more flexible alternatives to the steel pipes currently used. With precisely fitting geometries, low weight and the ability to tailor them to different application scenarios, completely new perspectives are opening up for BUDDEL.
An overall concept for the future of trenchless construction
BUDDEL is more than just another device in trenchless construction: it embodies a holistic approach that combines technology, efficiency, sustainability, user-friendliness and now also artificial intelligence. The combination of pneumatic power, intelligent software control, lightweight and robust housing, the ability to use high water pressure, as well as the use of ML and other special units such as BOB makes BUDDEL a real all-rounder.
Instead of relying on just one technology, Stern Technic combines different components and methods to find the optimal solution for every type of soil and every project requirement. The company is also looking to the future: new materials, improved seals, better handling systems, sophisticated cleaning concepts and the even more comprehensive use of machine learning will continuously improve BUDDEL.
Conclusion: BUDDEL ushers in a new era of trenchless construction
With BUDDEL, Stern Technic presents a tool that breaks the status quo in trenchless construction and sets new standards. The intelligent combination of power, precision, flexibility, efficiency and now also artificial intelligence creates conditions that were previously unthinkable. The recently demonstrated use of high-pressure water and the integration of machine learning show that the potential of this system is far from exhausted.
While the results so far are already promising, Stern Technic is staying on the ball to further develop BUDDEL. Thanks to constant innovation, BUDDEL has the potential to change underground infrastructure and pipeline construction for the long term - towards even greater efficiency, environmental friendliness and cost-effectiveness.
BUDDEL is a groundbreaking tool for construction companies that use trenchless construction as an efficient and sustainable alternative to conventional methods. Technology, research and practical relevance go hand in hand to usher in a new era in civil engineering.
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