Presentation Summary

From NorthConnex in 2015 to the Western Harbour Tunnel Project today, we’re reflecting on ten years of change in tunnelling technology and sharing what we’ve learned about monitoring, navigation, and robotics.

On the monitoring side, total stations have become far more power-efficient, underground WiFi enables faster deployments, and IoT devices now offer better battery life with connectivity options like Starlink. We’ve also started using 3D printing for custom solutions, and we’ll share practical lessons on what actually works in the field.

Navigation technology has advanced considerably for roadheaders and bolters. Sandvik’s Cutronic and TRO systems are making tunnelling safer and more precise, while improvements in visualisation and PTT management help operators work more effectively. Bolter systems have matured with auto-bolt selection, and web-based platforms now make data far more accessible.

The robotics in construction space is showing interesting possibilities. We’ve provided positioning for equipment like ROBY, Paneller, and Wall Shaver, though it’s still early days. There’s growing discussion about designing construction processes with robotics in mind from the start.

We’ll walk through these topics with real project examples and lessons learned along the way.

Timings

5:30pm  Light refreshments

6:00pm  (AEST) Main Presentation

7:00pm  Discussion and Drinks

7:30pm  Event Conclusion

Speaker

Steven Garlinge

Managing Director, Geodata KODA Australia

Steven Garlinge has worked in Sydney’s tunnelling industry since 1998, starting as a cadet engineer in the Elgas Storage Caverns. He’s developed roadheader and TBM navigation systems, monitoring control and analysis systems, and web-based reporting platforms. His projects range from single tilt sensors to hundreds of strain gauges across major infrastructure works. After founding KODA Engineering in Austin, Texas, Sydney’s tunnelling boom brought him back. He’s now partnered with Geodata, celebrating ten years in business together.

The event will also be attended by some of the senior team from Geodata (Austria)

Proudly sponsored by

Event hosted by

AECOM Sydney