Based on the Reissner-Mindlin plate theory

with the study on the deformation character of longitudinal joint and ring joint of shield tunnel

the interaction between the segment lining and soil layers

a flat shell-elastic hinge-foundation model is proposed. Furthermore

the relevant software is developed. The flat shell element is formed by assembly of Reissner-Mindlin plate element which is taken for the bending part and shearing part

and membrane element

where the bending and membrane effects are uncoupled. The elastic hinge element is employed to simulate the impairment of moment around ring joint and the difference of stiffness around longitudinal joint under positive moment and negative moment. The proposed model demonstrates much advantage in 3D analyzing of shield tunnel

such as inner forces of structure rather than stress. Finally

the presented example shows the validity and effectivity of the model in analyzing of interval shield tunnel

the feasibility of the model and program to other underground structures.