Chengwen Wang, Xiaoli Liu, Nan Hu, Wenli Yao, Enzhi Wang, Jianhong Jia
• An automatic monitoring system based on MEMS sensors is proposed for in-situ measurement of the shield twin tunnelling. • The hydraulic-rock-structural response of the shield twin tunnelling is analyzed. • A three-dimensional refined model of EPBS-hydraulic-rock-structure coupling is established. Twin-tunnel construction inevitably interacts under complex geological conditions, inducing highly complex hydraulic-rock-structure interactions. This study proposes a micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS)-based automatic monitoring system for in-situ measurement of rock and structural responses. It measures pore pressure, earth pressure, rock displacement, and additional stress and displacement of segments. Test results reveal three evolutionary stages: pre-shield arrival, shield passage, and post-shield passage. The final distribution and disturbance extent of these responses correlate with tunnel distance. A 3D refined numerical model incorporating the fluid–solid coupling and detailed construction process is developed. Numerical results analyze excess pore pressure, vault settlement, lining response, and key construction parameter effects (face and grouting pressure). Findings enhance understanding of twin tunnel interactions and hydraulic-rock-structural response mechanisms, providing insights for similar projects.