USE OF EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN SUPPORT OF UNDERGROUND SPACE DEVELOPMENT IN URBAN AREAS

Professor Hashash’s research focuses on the development of new computational and visualization techniques for simulation of complex geotechnical systems, including soil-structure interaction under static and dynamic conditions. During his Center appointment, he will explore the use and integration of emerging technologies to significantly minimize adverse impacts on the existing built environment of underground space-construction activities in urban areas.

Development of underground space is increasingly important for addressing such quality-of-life issues as congestion and pollution in large metropolitan areas. Potential uses of underground space include transportation (mass transit) facilities and large water-supply and discharge tunnels. New sensor technologies, wireless communication, virtual reality display, and intelligent computational models offer substantial promise for enhancing the construction of underground spaces to mitigate ground deformations and surface disruption. In coordination with several collaborators, Professor Hashash will design a coherent methodology framework to serve as a blueprint for development and application of these technologies.