TunnelEase: A Creative Approach to Tunneling Support Design Through the Development of an Android Application Incorporating RMR, RSR, and Q-System Methodologies

Tunneling construction plays a critical role in underground infrastructure projects, especially for transportation, environmental, and urban development. The integrity of tunnels is paramount to the success of these projects. The current study introduces TunnelEase, an innovative Android application designed to assist in estimating geological conditions and providing recommendations during the initial phase of tunneling support design. The mobile application integrates three widely used rock mass classification systems: Rock Mass Rating (RMR), Rock Structure Rating (RSR), and the Q-System. Developed using Android Studio, the application simplifies the complex calculations involved in rock mass classification by incorporating numerical ratings. This enables the engineers to conduct evaluations in a quick and precise manner. Performance of the application was validated by means of comparison of the results of RMR, RSR and Q-System in MS Excel where the application was proven to be correct and efficient. TunnelEase is optimized in remote locations, where the availability of internet connection can be limited, and will further safety, simplifying construction work, and benefiting rural application use. This tool serves as a very positive input in ground engineering in the contemporary field of tunnelling.