Sensor assembly and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a sensor assembly (100) for continuous monitoring in the region of natural hazards and / or for detecting natural hazard events, in particular gravimetric mass movements, preferably avalanches, landslides and rockslides, the assembly comprising: - a housing (1) for contacting, in particular partially and / or entirely, a mass to be monitored for the occurrence of a gravimetric mass movement, in particular a snow mass, soil mass or rock mass, which housing can be cast off by means of an aircraft; - at least one position sensor which is designed to determine the position of the housing, in particular in the form of geographic coordinates; - at least one acceleration / orientation sensor (Acc), in particular for detecting orientation, translational movement, acceleration and / or vibrations; - at least one temperature sensor; - a wireless communication device and / or a data memory; - an energy supply device; and - a control unit, - wherein the at least one position sensor, the at least one acceleration / orientation sensor (Acc), the at least one temperature sensor, the control unit, the communication device and the power supply device are each disposed in and / or on the housing, - wherein the control unit is connected to the position sensor, to the acceleration / orientation sensor (Acc) and to the temperature sensor and is designed to control the sensors in order to measure sensor measurement values, and - wherein the control unit is connected to the communication device and / or to the data memory and to the energy supply device and is designed to transmit sensor measurement values determined by the sensors by means of the communication device and / or to store said sensor measurement values in the data memory.

Description

[0001] Sensor arrangement and method

[0002] The invention relates to a sensor arrangement for continuous monitoring in the area of ​​natural hazards and / or for detecting natural hazard events, in particular avalanches, landslides and rockfalls according to patent claim 1, as well as a method for continuous monitoring in the area of ​​natural hazards and / or for detecting gravimetric mass movements such as natural hazard events, in particular avalanches, landslides and rockfalls according to patent claim 13.

[0003] A number of measuring systems for the continuous monitoring and detection of natural hazard events are known from the state of the art: DE 69505969 T2 describes a measuring rod anchored in the ground for recording and moving snow masses in profile. It has flexible segments and a measuring head with inclination and temperature measurements, as well as a transmitter for transmitting data to a base station as a receiver. CN 115437037 A describes an avalanche early warning system for weather forecasting that uses a sensor array with wireless data transmission. The system is position-sensitive thanks to its rod design, uses only simple sensors, and uses Zigbee as the transmission protocol. JP 2017214121 A describes a rod-shaped sensor system for detecting natural hazards such as avalanches. This system is dropped from drones, stabilized by an inflatable bag, and equipped with an acceleration sensor, GPS, camera, and battery.JP 2015175674 A discloses a flexible tilting rod system for avalanche detection, e.g., on railway lines, with the option of being attached to an avalanche barrier, which has an electronic connection to a traffic light system and load sensors. WO 0151930 A2 discloses a portable measuring rod for observing natural hazards with acceleration and inclination measurements and a transmitter unit. KR 102191725B B1 discloses a method for measuring the moisture penetration of critical layers after rainfall using sensors arranged at different depths in combination with numerical analysis of slope stability. DE 102020122861 A1 discloses a sensor network-based analysis and prediction method for protection against natural hazards using corrosion measurement, impact sensors / cable force in combination with weather data, as well as an analysis and prediction unit with natural hazard risk assessment.JP H0843148 A describes cable sensors of varying sensitivity embedded in a protective net for detecting vibrations to detect rockfalls, landslides, wind and snow contact. However, the disadvantages of these systems are that they are generally difficult to deploy, measure only a limited number of parameters relevant for detecting various natural hazard events, are usually not robust enough for continuous monitoring, and are generally unsuitable for long-term monitoring with a clear distinction between environmental conditions and events, for example, over an entire winter season. Furthermore, none of the known systems offer detailed event and condition analysis.

[0004] The object of the invention is therefore to remedy this situation and to provide a sensor arrangement which overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages, is suitable for continuous monitoring or monitoring over long measurement periods such as an entire winter season, and allows reliable and precise condition observation and detection of a wide variety of natural hazard events.

[0005] The invention solves this problem with a sensor arrangement for continuous monitoring in the area of ​​natural hazards and / or for detecting natural hazard events, in particular gravimetric mass movements, preferably avalanches, landslides and rockfalls, having the features of patent claim 1.

[0006] According to the invention, the sensor arrangement comprises a housing that can be dropped by means of an aircraft for, in particular, partial and / or full contacting of a mass to be monitored for the occurrence of a natural hazard event, in particular a gravimetric mass movement, in particular a snow mass, earth mass or rock mass, at least one position sensor that is designed to determine the position of the housing, in particular in the form of geographical coordinates, at least one acceleration / position sensor, in particular for detecting position, translational movement, acceleration and / or vibrations, at least one temperature sensor, a wireless communication device and / or a data memory, a power supply device, and a control unit, wherein the at least one position sensor, the at least one acceleration / position sensor, the at least one temperature sensor, the control unit,the communication device and the power supply device are each arranged in and / or on the housing, wherein the control unit is connected to the position sensor, the acceleration / position sensor and the temperature sensor and is designed to control the sensors to measure sensor measured values, and wherein the control unit is connected to the communication device and / or the data memory and the power supply device and is designed to transmit sensor measured values ​​determined by the sensors by means of the communication device and / or to store them in the data memory.

[0007] In the context of the invention, natural hazards are understood to mean natural, preferably geological, physical, and / or geophysical, phenomena that can have a negative impact on people, animals, or structures. A natural hazard event, in the context of the invention, is understood to mean the occurrence of one of the aforementioned phenomena, for example, in the form of an avalanche, a landslide, a rockslide, or a mudslide.

[0008] In the context of the invention, an acceleration / position sensor is understood to be a combined acceleration and position sensor for detecting, for example, position, translational movement, acceleration, and / or vibrations. Such a combined acceleration and position sensor can advantageously combine the corresponding components for acceleration and position measurement in one sensor. However, in the context of the invention, a separate implementation of the components for acceleration and position measurement, for example as separate sensors, is also understood to be an acceleration / position sensor.

[0009] In the context of the invention, a wireless communication device is understood to mean any communication device that allows a sensor arrangement to transmit and / or receive data wirelessly. A wide variety of communication standards, protocols, and transmission technologies can be used. The only essential aspect of the invention in this context is that no cable connection is required for data transmission and that communication is possible above, within, and below the moving mass.

[0010] In the context of the invention, "contacting" the mass to be monitored by the sensor arrangement means that at least parts or sections of the sensor arrangement contact or touch the mass. In this context, it is possible for the sensor arrangement to be partially or completely, i.e., completely surrounded by the mass, or for the sensor arrangement to be buried in the mass. However, it is also possible for the sensor arrangement to merely rest on the mass and touch or contact the mass only in a small, limited area of ​​the circumference of the sensor arrangement.

[0011] Such a sensor arrangement according to the invention advantageously represents a flexible sensor system for continuous measurement in the field of natural hazards with event detection and location of the events. The system is characterized by its design with a power supply unit for energy-saving, self-sufficient operation over, for example, several months to years and a compact, robust construction. The robust housing allows deployment by hand or - particularly easily - by aircraft, without the need for additional aids for protecting and / or stabilizing the sensor arrangement during release, such as a balloon. A sensor arrangement according to the invention also has no preferred direction for contacting the mass to be monitored, but can be used or operated in any orientation.By combining various types of sensors mounted in and / or on the housing, the combined evaluation of different sensor data for event detection is possible, ensuring particularly reliable, rapid, and precise detection. Therefore, a sensor arrangement according to the invention is particularly suitable for continuous monitoring or monitoring over a longer observation period.

[0012] Such a configuration of a sensor arrangement according to the invention advantageously makes it possible to collect the measured values ​​of various sensors or sensor types, namely at least one position sensor, acceleration / attitude sensor, and temperature sensor, and combine them in such a way that reliable detection of events and position changes is possible for every application. Furthermore, the use of different sensor types enables particularly precise and reliable recording or monitoring of the mass or area to be monitored.

[0013] Further advantageous embodiments of a sensor arrangement according to the invention are described in the dependent claims. To ensure particularly reliable detection of natural hazard events even in the case where no position measurements are being measured by the position sensor, an advantageous variant of a sensor arrangement according to the invention can provide for at least one humidity sensor to be arranged in and / or on the housing, in particular on a side surface of the housing.

[0014] For particularly precise and reliable detection of natural hazard events while simultaneously ensuring reliability with regard to individual sensors, redundant sensors can be provided in a sensor arrangement according to the invention and at least two, in particular three, preferably six, temperature sensors and / or humidity sensors can be arranged in and / or on the housing, in particular on different side surfaces of the housing.

[0015] In order to be able to reliably detect changes in position, rotations, rolling processes, vibrations or accelerations of any kind, it can be provided in a sensor arrangement according to the invention that the acceleration / position sensor is designed as a 3D acceleration / position sensor

[0016] According to a particularly advantageous variant of a sensor arrangement according to the invention, it can be provided that the wireless communication device is designed to transmit and / or receive data via Long Range Wide Area Network LoRa-WAN, in particular for communication with LoRa gateways and / or LoRa servers, and / or in the range of an ISM band.

[0017] Such a configuration of a sensor arrangement according to the invention advantageously ensures the availability of a long-range, low-power wireless communication system that guarantees data transmission under snow, ice, water, or earth layers of limited thickness, even in situations where a GSM connection is no longer possible. This advantageously enables wireless transmission of the measurement data within an open ISM band over a distance of several kilometers to a base station and to the web or a central server. Furthermore, the use of open interfaces and standards such as LoRa-WAN enables seamless integration into existing standards and the Internet of Things, allowing a sensor arrangement according to the invention to be operated in the form of a sensor network.The use of these standards also advantageously enables certified, secure and encrypted data transmission, which can reliably prevent interference, false alarms or sabotage by third parties.

[0018] According to a particularly advantageous variant of a sensor arrangement according to the invention, it can be provided that the wireless communication device is designed to emit signals for avalanche search devices and / or sound signals, in particular depending on the operating mode of the sensor arrangement.

[0019] Such a design of a sensor arrangement according to the invention advantageously ensures that flexible, efficient location, search, and deployment of the sensor arrangement under various conditions is possible, if necessary, by means of conventional signals or passive units for avalanche search devices that can be activated for a limited time, for example, and / or an audio signal from the wireless communication device, even when no position measurements, such as a GPS signal, are available. For example, as long as communication with the sensor arrangement via the wireless communication device is possible, a signal detectable by avalanche search devices and an audio signal for precise location can be emitted for a limited period of time.In this way, the targeted activation of a trackable signal and an audio signal with a time limit can reliably prevent interference with any cross-regional searches for people at the same time.

[0020] In order to ensure a compact, robust design in a sensor arrangement according to the invention that reliably prevents damage during manual deployment, dropping from aircraft, or due to natural hazards during use, the housing of the sensor arrangement can have at least one corner and / or at least one flat surface and, in particular, a regular, preferably cubic shape. In particular, a cubic shape of the housing of the sensor arrangement enables simple production and particularly space-saving, accessible accommodation and maintenance of the sensors and communication device, with all sensors, the power supply device and communication device, and / or the data storage device being easily accessible and maintainable at any time.

[0021] According to a particularly robust, weather-resistant variant of a sensor arrangement according to the invention, the housing can be designed to be waterproof, in particular pressure-resistant and destructive-proof. According to a further advantageous variant of a sensor arrangement according to the invention, the housing can have reinforced corners with openings, in particular with screw threads, wherein an outwardly projecting anti-slip device, in particular in the form of a spike or a knob, can be reversibly inserted, in particular inserted or screwed, into each opening.

[0022] With a sensor arrangement designed in this way, anti-slip devices or extensions of various shapes can advantageously be incorporated, e.g., screwed into the corners, allowing the sensor arrangement to be dropped or securely positioned depending on the ambient conditions. A cube-shaped housing with specifically reinforced corners and screw threads is particularly advantageous for the flexible attachment of anti-slip devices or extensions such as spikes, knob-like anti-slip protection, or similar devices, thus ensuring secure placement. This type of housing, preferably in a cube shape, along with the flexible attachment of extensions, ensures particularly minimal space requirements prior to assembly, particularly for transport and deployment in difficult terrain.

[0023] In order to enable deployment of a sensor arrangement according to the invention by means of aircraft such as UAS / UAV (Unmanned Aircraft System / Unmanned Aerial Vehicle), as well as remote triggering of the release and / or release in impassable terrain, as well as in hazardous areas inaccessible to humans, it can be provided in a sensor arrangement according to the invention that the housing has a device for reversibly fixing to an aircraft, in particular a UAV or a UAS, wherein it is provided in particular that the device is designed as a magnet and / or eyelet holder.

[0024] According to a further advantageous variant of a sensor arrangement according to the invention, it can be provided that the control unit is designed to communicate with an external terminal for remote maintenance access by means of the communication device, in particular to receive control commands from the external terminal for controlling the sensors for measuring sensor measured values, preferably for setting the measuring interval of the sensors, and / or for transmitting sensor measured values, preferably position measured values, and / or for emitting signals for avalanche search devices and / or sound signals by means of the communication device, and / or for setting a functional mode of the sensor arrangement, in particular a test mode, deployment mode, operating mode and / or insertion mode.

[0025] Through such remote maintenance access via the communication device, for example, the data acquisition interval can be adapted to the current weather conditions, whereby power consumption and measurements are only carried out when this is necessary for the respective application, or it can be specified that the sensor arrangement only starts the more energy-intensive transmission operation autonomously when certain threshold values ​​are exceeded, which are exceeded, for example, in the case of events or the search and deployment of the sensor system.

[0026] In the context of the invention, a terminal is understood to mean any data processing unit or data processing network, for example a computer, a server or a computer network (e.g. a cloud).

[0027] According to a further advantageous variant of a sensor arrangement according to the invention, it can be provided that the control unit is designed to control the communication device for transmitting sensor measurement data when the sensor measurement value measured by, in particular, the at least one acceleration / position sensor exceeds a predetermined data transmission acceleration threshold value, wherein it is provided in particular that at least one data transmission acceleration threshold value is stored in the control unit and / or in the data memory.

[0028] By such a design of the control unit, it can advantageously be ensured that the sensor arrangement only starts the more energy-intensive transmission operation when certain threshold values ​​are exceeded, which are exceeded, for example, in the case of events or the search and deployment of the sensor system.

[0029] For a self-sufficient continuous measurement, depending on the setting, over several months or years without the need for charging, it can be provided in a sensor arrangement according to the invention that the energy supply device is designed to reliably supply the sensor arrangement with energy over a predetermined measuring period, in particular a winter season, or comparable longer measuring periods.

[0030] A further object of the invention is to provide a method for detecting a wide variety of natural hazard events, which can be used in the context of continuous monitoring or monitoring over long measurement periods, such as an entire winter season, and which allows reliable and precise detection of the natural hazard events.

[0031] The invention solves this problem with a method for continuous monitoring in the area of ​​natural hazards and / or for detecting natural hazard events, in particular gravimetric mass movements, preferably avalanches, landslides and rockfalls, with the features of patent claim 13.

[0032] According to the invention, the method comprises the following steps: determining electronic sensor measured values ​​with at least one acceleration / position sensor, at least one temperature sensor, and at least one position sensor, wherein the at least one acceleration / position sensor, the at least one temperature sensor, and the at least one position sensor are arranged, in particular in spatial proximity to one another, on a mass to be monitored for the occurrence of gravimetric mass movements, in particular a snow mass, earth mass or rock mass, preferably in full contact, jointly analyzing the sensor measured values ​​of the at least one acceleration / position sensor, temperature sensor, and position sensor and

[0033] Detection of the occurrence of a natural hazard event, in particular a gravimetric mass movement, preferably an avalanche, when the sensor measured values ​​indicate that the at least one acceleration / position sensor, the at least one temperature sensor and / or the at least one position sensor are located within the mass to be monitored and the acceleration measured values ​​of the acceleration / position sensor exceed a predetermined event detection acceleration threshold value.

[0034] A method according to the invention advantageously enables continuous monitoring in the area of ​​natural hazards with event detection and location of the events that have occurred in a particularly comprehensive, meaningful, and reliable manner. By combining various sensor measurements or measurement types from at least one position sensor, acceleration / attitude sensor, and temperature sensor for event detection, it is possible to detect comprehensive, meaningful information regarding potential natural hazards and the occurrence of natural hazard events particularly quickly and reliably, allowing appropriate actions such as alerting emergency services to be initiated quickly.Through the selected combination of sensor types and the joint, preferably automated and / or computer-assisted evaluation of their sensor readings, it is also possible to reliably detect a wide variety of natural hazard events, for example gravimetric mass movements such as avalanches, landslides and rockfalls, using the same method and without the need for further adaptations.

[0035] In order to be able to detect the presence of, for example, a layer of snow within which the sensors are located, it can be determined in a method according to the invention that the at least one acceleration / position sensor, the at least one temperature sensor and / or the at least one position sensor are located within the mass to be monitored if no position measurement values ​​are measured by the position sensor, although position measurement values ​​were previously measured by the position sensor, and temperature measurement values ​​are measured by the temperature sensor within a predetermined temperature range around the freezing point of 0°C, in particular from -0.5°C to +0.5°C.

[0036] A particularly reliable detection of the occurrence of a natural hazard event can be ensured if a predetermined differential acceleration compared to acceleration measurement values ​​previously measured by the acceleration / position sensor, in particular a predetermined differential acceleration, preferably a predetermined differential acceleration of > ±100 mg / h, is specified as the event detection acceleration threshold, wherein it is particularly provided that if the event detection acceleration threshold is exceeded, a warning signal is emitted, in particular with freely adjustable notification of a selected group of people.

[0037] According to an advantageous variant of a method according to the invention, it can be provided that an exposure, in particular on a mass of snow, rock mass or earth mass, of the at least one position sensor and / or of the at least one temperature sensor is detected when position measurement values ​​are measured by the position sensor and / or when temperature measurement values ​​are measured by the temperature sensor outside a predetermined temperature range, in particular of > +0.5 °C and / or < -0.5 °C.

[0038] In the context of the invention, “exposed” sensors means that the sensors in question are not embedded in or surrounded by a mass, for example a mass of snow, rock or earth, but rest freely on the mass.

[0039] According to a further advantageous variant of a method according to the invention, it can be provided that a tilting of the at least one position sensor and / or of the at least one acceleration / position sensor is detected when the position sensor measures a predetermined differential position compared to position measurement values ​​previously measured by the position sensor, in particular a differential position of < 1 m, and / or the acceleration sensor measures a predetermined differential acceleration compared to acceleration measurement values ​​previously measured by the acceleration / position sensor, in particular a predetermined differential acceleration, preferably a predetermined differential acceleration of > ±100 mg / h.

[0040] According to a further advantageous variant of a method according to the invention, it can be provided that if the acceleration / position sensor measures a predetermined differential acceleration compared to previously measured acceleration values ​​by the acceleration / position sensor, in particular a differential acceleration of > ±100 mg / h, and / or the position sensor measures a predetermined differential position compared to previously measured position values ​​by the position sensor, in particular a differential position of > 1 m, and the measured position values ​​lie within a predetermined position range, a rolling of the at least one position sensor and / or the at least one acceleration / position sensor is detected, and / or if the acceleration / position sensor measures a predetermined differential acceleration compared to previously measured acceleration values ​​by the acceleration / position sensor, in particular a differential acceleration of > ±100 mg / h,and / or a predetermined differential position from previously measured position values ​​measured by the position sensor, in particular a differential position of > 1 m, is measured by the position sensor and the measured position values ​​lie outside a predetermined position range, a removal of the at least one position sensor and / or the at least one acceleration sensor is detected.,

[0041] By such a design of a method according to the invention, it is advantageously possible to efficiently avoid potential false detections of natural hazard events caused by sensor measured values ​​recorded during unrolling or removal of the sensors.

[0042] To further improve the detection accuracy of natural hazard events, a method according to the invention can provide for additional electronic sensor measured values ​​to be measured with at least one humidity sensor, wherein the at least one humidity sensor is arranged in particular in spatial proximity to the at least one temperature sensor and / or position sensor and / or acceleration / position sensor, in and / or on a mass to be monitored for the occurrence of natural hazard events, in particular a snow mass, earth mass or rock mass, preferably in full contact.

[0043] According to a further advantageous variant of a method according to the invention, it can be provided that the presence of a dry mass, in particular a dry snow mass, is determined when the moisture measured values ​​measured by the moisture sensor fall below a predetermined moisture threshold value, in particular in the range of 1,000 fF, and / or that the presence of a wet mass, in particular a wet snow mass and thawing, is determined when the moisture measured values ​​measured by the moisture sensor exceed a predetermined moisture threshold value, in particular in the range above 1,000 fF.

[0044] According to a further advantageous variant of a method according to the invention, it can be provided that additional precipitation measurements and / or temperature measurements from a weather station arranged in spatial proximity to the at least one humidity sensor and / or to the at least one temperature sensor are used and / or that the presence of a dry mass, in particular a dry snow mass, is determined if the precipitation measurements measured by the weather station fall below a predetermined precipitation threshold value, in particular of 0.5 mm / h, and the temperature measurements measured by the weather station fall below a predetermined temperature threshold value, in particular in the range of +0.5 °C, and / or that the presence of a wet mass, in particular a wet snow mass and thawing, is determined if the precipitation measurements measured by the weather station fall below a predetermined precipitation threshold value,in particular of 0.5 mm / h, and the temperature measured by the weather station falls below a specified temperature threshold, in particular in the range of +0.5 °C.

[0045] The inclusion of precipitation and / or temperature measurements from a weather station can be advantageously used for calibration of the humidity and / or temperature sensor and the detection accuracy for, for example, the condition of a snow mass, e.g. dry, moist, wet, humidity when the sensors are exposed, precipitation in the form of snow or rain or thawing processes when the sensor is placed on / in snow can be improved.

[0046] According to a further advantageous variant of a method according to the invention, it can be provided that the catchment areas of mass movements such as avalanches and mudslides can be clearly located, searched for and highlighted by means of digital map displays and lists. Catchment areas of natural hazards that are specifically monitored by sensors are dynamically marked according to status or event by means of map displays and lists. The position and changes in position of the positioned sensors are shown in digital maps and diagrams and analyzed automatically. Important data, analyses and warning messages are clearly shown in digital maps and diagrams. Freely configurable automated warning messages are sent to those responsible for a particular area. Further advantages and embodiments of the invention can be found in the description and the accompanying drawings.

[0047] The invention is schematically illustrated below in the drawings using particularly advantageous, but not restrictive, embodiments and is described by way of example with reference to the drawings.

[0048] The following shows schematically:

[0049] Fig. 1 is a bird's-eye view of the housing of an embodiment of a sensor arrangement according to the invention,

[0050] Fig. 2 is a side view of the embodiment of Fig. 1,

[0051] Fig. 3 is a further side view of the embodiment of Fig. 1,

[0052] Fig. 4 is a perspective view of the embodiment of Fig. 1,

[0053] Fig. 5 is a further perspective view of the embodiment of Fig. 1,

[0054] Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a sensor arrangement according to the invention with the housing of Fig. 1 and anti-slip devices,

[0055] Fig. 7a shows a first embodiment of a slip protection device for a sensor arrangement according to the invention,

[0056] Fig. 7b shows a second embodiment of a slip protection device for a sensor arrangement according to the invention,

[0057] Fig. 7c shows a third embodiment of a slip protection device for a sensor arrangement according to the invention,

[0058] Fig. 8 shows a logic diagram for embodiments of a method according to the invention, Fig. 9 shows acceleration and position measurement values ​​in a first embodiment of a method according to the invention,

[0059] Fig. 10 Humidity measured values ​​in the first embodiment,

[0060] Fig. 11 Temperature measurements in the first embodiment,

[0061] Fig. 12 Acceleration and position measurement values ​​in a second embodiment of a method according to the invention,

[0062] Fig. 13 Humidity measured values ​​in the second embodiment,

[0063] Fig. 14 Temperature measurements in the second embodiment.

[0064] In the following, an exemplary embodiment of a sensor arrangement 100 according to the invention will first be explained in detail, before subsequently explaining exemplary embodiments of a method according to the invention for the continuous monitoring and detection of natural hazard events in the form of avalanches as gravimetric mass movements. Although the exemplary embodiments are explained in connection with avalanches, a sensor arrangement 100 according to the invention and a method according to the invention can be used without further modifications for the detection or continuous monitoring of other natural hazard events or other gravimetric mass movements, such as landslides or rockfalls.

[0065] Sensor arrangement 100 for continuous monitoring in the area of ​​natural hazards and / or for the detection of natural hazard events

[0066] Fig. 1 to Fig. 5 show various views of an embodiment of a housing 1 of a sensor arrangement 100 according to the invention. In the embodiment shown, the housing 1 has a robust, waterproof and hermetically sealed, regular, approximately cube-shaped design, which reliably prevents mechanical damage during deployment by hand, dropping from aircraft or due to natural hazards during use.

[0067] The housing 1 has six flat side surfaces 2, on which, as shown in Figs. 1 to 5, recesses 3 for sensors are arranged, or other devices such as holding devices, which will be discussed in more detail below. The elongated recesses 3 are intended, for example, for humidity sensors, while the recesses 4 with a round cross-section can be provided for temperature sensors.

[0068] Such a cube-shaped, stable design of the housing 1 enables space-saving, easily accessible accommodation of sensors and other units, both inside the housing and at various positions outside the housing 1, for example, on the flat side surfaces 2 of the housing 1. Furthermore, such a cube-shaped housing 1 can be easily manufactured, for example, by 3D printing or die casting. Alternatively, the housing 1 can also have any other, preferably polyhedral, shape.

[0069] As can be seen in Fig. 1 to Fig. 5, the housing 1 in the exemplary embodiment has reinforcements 5 and openings 4 at the corners, into which anti-slip devices 6, such as extensions of various shapes, can be inserted, e.g. screwed, which allow the sensor arrangement 100 to be dropped and safely placed. As can be seen in Fig. 6, the anti-slip devices 6 in the exemplary embodiment shown are in the form of telescopically extendable spikes which have a screw thread at one end and can be reversibly screwed into the corners of the housing 1. The spikes can therefore be removed for transport and deployment in difficult terrain, which is particularly space-saving and ensures easy handling, and can only be mounted when required before the sensor arrangement 100 is deployed.

[0070] As an alternative to such spikes, knob-like anti-slip devices 6 or similar extensions that can be reversibly arranged on the housing 1 and also ensure secure placement are also conceivable. Further exemplary embodiments of anti-slip devices 6 for a sensor arrangement 100 according to the invention are shown in Figs. 7a-7c, which can be selected depending on the area of ​​application, type of application, and snow hardness. The exemplary embodiment of an anti-slip device 6 in Fig. 7a, for example, has a screw thread 61, a grained surface 62, a taper 63, and a blunt end 64. The exemplary embodiment of an anti-slip device 6 in Fig. 7b has a screw thread 61, a grained surface 62, and a blunt end 64. The embodiment of an anti-slip device 6 in Fig. 7c, on the other hand, has a screw thread 61, a grained surface 62, and a soft tip made of, for example, hard rubber or plastic for safe use in frequented areas 65.

[0071] As can be seen in Fig. 6, the screwed-in anti-slip devices extend radially outward from the corners of the housing 1 when screwed in, giving the sensor assembly 100 a "hedgehog-like" appearance. This design allows the anti-slip devices 6 to spread out after being dropped from an aircraft onto the snow mass to be monitored, thus providing reliable protection against unwanted rolling.

[0072] In the exemplary embodiment shown, the housing 1 further comprises a holding device (not shown) in the form of a magnetic holder, which enables a reversibly detachable coupling for deployment with an aircraft such as a UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System). In the exemplary embodiment, the holder is designed as an interchangeable system, so that the dropping with or from a wide variety of devices is possible. For dropping over the area or the snow mass to be monitored, a remote release or remote decoupling of the housing 1 or the sensor arrangement 100 can advantageously be triggered, for example by remote control, radio signal or the like. Alternatively, it is of course also possible to position a sensor arrangement 100 according to the invention manually in or on the snow mass to be monitored, or, for example, to bury it in the snow mass at the desired depth.

[0073] For reliable continuous monitoring and detection of natural hazard events, the sensor array 100 in the illustrated embodiment comprises a series of—partially redundant—sensors whose sensor measurements can be combined to detect natural hazard events or specific conditions of the snow mass to be monitored, or position changes of the sensor array 100 independent of natural hazard events, even when no position measurements or GPS signal are available. This will be discussed in more detail below.

[0074] In the exemplary embodiment shown, temperature sensors T1, T2, T3 and humidity sensors F1, F2, F3 are arranged on the outside of the housing 1 of the sensor arrangement 100, each on three side surfaces 2 of the housing 1. In the exemplary embodiment shown, the temperature sensors T1, T2, T3 and the humidity sensors F1, F2, F3 are each arranged individually on different side surfaces 2 of the housing 1. However, this is not mandatory, and a temperature sensor and a humidity sensor can also be arranged on the same side surface 2 of the housing 1.

[0075] Digital sensors with an I2C, One-Wire or SPI interface are preferred as temperature sensors, for example, due to their better immunity to interference. Care must be taken to ensure good thermal coupling to the respective side surface 2 of the housing. Humidity sensors that work according to the capacitive measuring principle and have an I2C interface are preferred for measuring humidity. By using several similar sensors, i.e. several humidity sensors F1, F2, F3 or temperature sensors T1, T2, T3, redundant measured values ​​are available, so that the failure of individual sensors can be compensated for without any problems. Apart from that, it is also possible to use individual sensors arranged on different side surfaces 2 to measure direction-dependent temperature or humidity.To obtain moisture measurements and thus be able to determine whether the sensor arrangement 100 is, for example, partially or completely embedded in the snow mass to be examined, which will be discussed in more detail below. In the exemplary embodiment shown, a position sensor and a combined acceleration / position sensor Acc are also arranged inside the housing 1. In the exemplary embodiment, the position sensor is designed as a GPS sensor and determines the position of the housing 1 in the form of geographical coordinates. The combined acceleration / position sensor Acc is designed as a 3D acceleration / position sensor comprising a 3-axis gyroscope and a 3-axis acceleration sensor and detects the position, translational movements, acceleration, and vibrations of the housing 1 of the sensor arrangement 100.

[0076] In the exemplary embodiment, a control unit - in the exemplary embodiment this is a microprocessor - a power supply device, a wireless communication device and additionally a data memory are accommodated inside the housing 1 of the sensor arrangement 100.

[0077] In the exemplary embodiment, the power supply device is a rechargeable battery. However, it is also conceivable to arrange solar cells on the side surfaces of the housing 1 and combine them with the rechargeable battery, so that electrical energy can be generated when sunlight shines on the sensor arrangement 100, or for the power supply device to be designed as a battery, for example, with a minimum operating life of 10 years under normal conditions. In the exemplary embodiment, the power supply device supplies the sensors, the control unit, and the communication device with power.

[0078] The control unit is connected to the position sensor, the acceleration / attitude sensor Acc, the temperature sensors T1, T2, T3, and the humidity sensors F1, F2, F3 and controls the sensors to measure the sensor values. The control unit is also connected to the wireless communication device, the data storage device, and the power supply device. It transmits the sensor values ​​determined by the sensors to an external terminal via the communication device and stores the sensor values ​​in the data storage device. Such additional data storage offers the advantage that even in the event of a complete failure of the communication device, the sensor values ​​can be saved for later evaluation.

[0079] In the exemplary embodiment, the wireless communication device is a LoRa terminal that transmits data packets to a LoRa WAN server via LoRa gateways. LoRa uses frequency ranges, e.g., in the ISM band, which enables transmission over distances of several kilometers to base stations, the web, or a central server. In this way, data can be transmitted under snow, ice, water, or layers of earth of limited thickness, even in situations where a GSM connection is no longer possible. In the exemplary embodiment, the wireless communication device transmits the sensor measurements, as well as any events detected by the control unit through joint evaluation of the sensor measurements, to the external server or terminal for further processing or alarm generation.

[0080] A sensor arrangement 100 according to the invention is advantageously designed and energy-optimized to enable energy-saving, self-sufficient operation over several months to years without the need for charging. For this purpose, remote maintenance access to the control unit can be established, for example, using the communication device, via which control commands can be transmitted from the external terminal or server to the control unit.

[0081] For example, different functional or operating modes can be selected to check the functional status of the sensor arrangement 100, to locate the sensor arrangement 100, or to specify the measurement interval of the sensors. Such remote access makes it possible, for example, to adapt the data acquisition interval for acquiring sensor measurement values ​​by the sensors and / or the data transmission interval for transmitting sensor measurement values ​​via the communication device to the external terminal to the current weather conditions. This means that measurements are only taken when necessary for the respective application, thus minimizing power consumption. Furthermore, the control device can also be set so that it only begins energy-intensive transmission mode ("wake-up") when predetermined threshold values ​​are exceeded, e.g., in the event of events or the search for and deployment of the sensor system.Furthermore, by means of such remote maintenance access, it is possible to centrally control the sensor arrangement 100 in such a way that status monitoring or adjustment of the measurement intervals is possible at any time.

[0082] In the exemplary embodiment, during normal operation, the sensor measured values ​​are transmitted from the sensor arrangement 100 to a terminal, for example a server, where they are evaluated. In the sensor arrangement 100 itself, however, limit values ​​are also set by the control unit on the control board or for the individual sensor measured values. If exceeded, these limit values ​​lead to actions or reactions, as described above. To locate the sensor arrangement 100 in the absence of a GPS signal, the wireless communication device in the illustrated exemplary embodiment can be controlled via remote maintenance access and emit signals that can be tracked by avalanche search devices as well as an audio signal over a predefined period of time. In addition, the exemplary embodiment is equipped with commercially available passive radar reflectors in case the power supply fails.

[0083] Examples of such functional or operating modes are summarized in Table 1:

[0084] Table 1: Overview of functional or operating modes that can be set via remote maintenance.

[0085] Optionally, it is also possible for several sensor arrangements 100 to communicate with the same external terminal and transmit sensor measured values ​​and / or event detections to the terminal, so that central surveillance or central monitoring of a large area with central alarm of, for example, emergency services is possible.

[0086] Method for continuous monitoring in the area of ​​natural hazards and / or for detecting natural hazard events Fig. 8 shows a logic diagram which provides an overview of when and how, for example, a natural hazard event in the form of an avalanche is detected using a method according to the invention, or certain states of the snow mass to be monitored, such as thawing, dry snow, wet snow, or position changes of the sensor arrangement 100 which are independent of natural hazard events, such as tipping, rolling, transporting away, a position on or in the snow cover, are detected.

[0087] In the following, with reference to Fig. 8, we briefly describe how natural hazard events or various states of the sensor arrangement 100 or its sensors can be detected during the continuous monitoring of a snow mass to be monitored:

[0088] First, for example, it can be checked whether the sensor assembly 100 is in operating mode BM. If this is the case, which is indicated by "BM+," the next step is to check whether the sensors are recording any sensor readings. If no sensor readings are being recorded by the sensors (indicated by "D-"), a failure of the sensor assembly 100 can be determined (state "1" in Fig. 8).

[0089] If sensor measurement values ​​are recorded by the sensors (marked by “D +” in Fig. 8), the next step is a joint analysis of the sensor measurement values ​​of the acceleration / position sensor Acc, the temperature sensors T1, T2, T3, the humidity sensors F1, F2, F3 and the position sensor, which in the embodiment in Fig. 8 is a GPS sensor.

[0090] If temperatures T < +0.5°C or > -0.5°C are measured and there is no GPS signal, it is determined that the sensor arrangement 100 is located in the snow cover (“S+” in Fig. 8).

[0091] If the acceleration / position sensor Acc now delivers acceleration measurement values ​​a that exceed an event detection acceleration threshold of A± 100 mg / h, an avalanche event is detected (“3a” in Fig. 8).

[0092] However, if the acceleration / position sensor Acc delivers acceleration measurements a that fall below an event detection acceleration threshold of a predefined differential acceleration of A± 100 mg / h, a stable position and measurement of the sensor arrangement 100 (“M +” in Fig. 8) is determined. If the humidity sensors F1, F2, F3 simultaneously deliver humidity measurements F that fall below a predefined humidity threshold of 1000 fF, the presence of dry snow is determined (“3b” in Fig. 8). However, if the humidity sensors F1, F2, F3 deliver humidity measurements F that exceed the predefined humidity threshold of 1000 fF, the presence of wet snow is determined (“3b” in Fig. 8). A comparison can also be made here with precipitation measurements NS and temperature measurements T measured by a weather station WS.

[0093] If temperatures T < +0.5°C or >-0.5°C are measured and no GPS signal is present, it is determined that the sensor arrangement 100 is located in the snow cover (“S+” in Fig. 8).

[0094] If temperatures T > +0.5°C or < -0.5°C are measured and a GPS signal is present, it is determined that the sensor arrangement 100 is located on the snow mass to be examined or, if the snow cover is melting, on a soil or rock surface underneath (“2” in Fig. 8).

[0095] If the acceleration / position sensor Acc simultaneously delivers acceleration measurement values ​​a that fall below the event detection acceleration threshold of A± 100 mg / h, a stable position and measurement of the sensor arrangement 100 (“2a” in Fig. 8) is determined. If the humidity sensors F1, F2, F3 simultaneously deliver humidity measurement values ​​F that fall below a predefined humidity threshold of 1000 fF, the presence of dry snow or no precipitation is determined (“2ai” in Fig. 8). However, if the humidity sensors F1, F2, F3 simultaneously deliver humidity measurement values ​​F that exceed a predefined humidity threshold of 1000 fF, the presence of wet snow or precipitation is determined (“2a2” in Fig. 8). A comparison can also be made here with precipitation measurement values ​​NS and temperature measurement values ​​T measured by a weather station WS.

[0096] However, if the acceleration / position sensor Acc delivers acceleration measurement values ​​a that exceed the event detection acceleration threshold of A± 100 mg / h, and the position sensor indicates a differential GPS position APos of < 1 m, a tilting of the sensor arrangement 100 (“2b” in Fig. 8) is detected. However, if the position sensor indicates a differential GPS position APos of > 1 m, a check is carried out to determine whether the sensor arrangement 100 is located within a predefined geofence, i.e., a type of virtual boundary within a geographical area. If this is the case (“GF+” in Fig. 8), a rolling of the sensor arrangement 100 (“2c” in Fig. 8) is detected. If this is not the case (“GF-” in Fig. 8), a removal of the sensor arrangement 100 (“2d” in Fig. 8) is detected.

[0097] Fig. 9-14 show a first embodiment of sensor measurement values ​​recorded with the above-described sensor arrangement 100 according to the invention during the continuous monitoring of a snow mass to be monitored: Fig. 9 and Fig. 12 show the acceleration and position measurement values ​​a measured by the 3D acceleration / position sensor Acc in mg, ie milli g or 1 / 1,000 of the acceleration due to gravity, respectively for the X, Y and Z axes, Fig. 10 and Fig. 13 show the moisture measurement values ​​measured by the three moisture sensors F1, F2, F3 in fF (capacitance 10 -15 Ferrate (femtoferrate)), as well as Fig. 11 and Fig. 14 show the temperature values ​​measured by the three temperature sensors T1, T2, T3 in °C. The sensor values ​​are plotted against time (in the form of dates).

[0098] In the example shown, the occurrence of an avalanche event is detected when the following sensor measurement value combination occurs:

[0099] 1) The sensor measurements from the acceleration / position sensor Acc, the temperature sensors T1, T2, T3 and the position sensor indicate that the acceleration / position sensor Acc, the temperature sensors T1, T2, T3 and the position sensor are located within the snow mass to be monitored. The temperature measurements T indicate a position in the snow cover if the temperature measurements T are within a predefined temperature range around the freezing point of 0°C. In the exemplary embodiment, a temperature range of > -0.5 °C to < +0.5 °C was selected for this purpose. The position sensor indicates a position in the snow cover if the position sensor can no longer measure any position measurements, even though the position sensor had already measured position values ​​previously and the position sensor was functioning properly.

[0100] 2) The acceleration measurement values ​​a of the acceleration / position sensor Acc exceed an event detection acceleration threshold, which is determined, for example, based on comprehensive, externally validated test series. In the exemplary embodiment, a predefined differential acceleration of > ±100 mg / h compared to the acceleration measurement values ​​a previously measured by the acceleration / position sensor was selected as the event detection acceleration threshold.

[0101] As can be seen in Figs. 9-11, such a sensor measurement combination occurred on April 22, 2023, at 1:46 p.m. (see arrow in Fig. 9): The temperature measurements from all three temperature sensors are constant at approximately 0 °C, and the position sensor no longer provides any position measurements. This means that the sensors are located within the snow cover. Furthermore, the acceleration measurements a from the acceleration / position sensor Acc, which were previously measured as constant, show differential accelerations of up to 1000 mg / h at this time. The acceleration refers to the acceleration due to gravity 9.81 m / s2 = 1 g = 1,000 mg, and the change in acceleration refers to the change in acceleration in a specific time unit of 1 h. Subsequently, changed, but again constant, acceleration measurements a are measured.Thus, the above-mentioned criteria for the detection of an avalanche are met and the detection of the event is transmitted by the control unit via the communication device to the terminal, where a warning signal is issued.

[0102] Furthermore, the humidity measured values ​​F of the humidity sensors F1, F2, and F3 also indicate a change at this time: Previously, the three humidity sensors F1, F2, and F3 measured constant humidity measured values ​​F ranging from slightly below 2000 fF (humidity sensor F2) to over 3000 fF (humidity sensor F3). However, on April 22, 2023, at 1:46 p.m., a sudden change in the measured values ​​occurs, and the humidity measured values ​​F measured at 1:46 p.m. (see arrow in Fig. 10) range from approximately 2000 fF (humidity sensor F1) to over 7000 fF (humidity sensor F2). Subsequently, almost constant, but sometimes significantly higher, humidity measured values ​​F are measured than before the avalanche event: For example, the humidity sensor F2 provides humidity measured values ​​in the range from 6000 to over 7000 fF, while the humidity sensors F1, F2 again measure humidity measured values ​​F in the range from 2000 to over 3000 fF.

[0103] Fig. 12-14 show a further embodiment of sensor measurement values ​​recorded with the above-described sensor arrangement 100 according to the invention during the continuous monitoring of a second snow mass to be monitored: Fig. 12 shows the acceleration and position measurement values ​​a measured by the 3D acceleration / position sensor Acc in mg for the X, Y and Z axes, respectively, Fig. 13 shows the moisture measurement values ​​F measured by the three moisture sensors F1, F2, F3 in fF (capacitance 10 -15 Ferrate (femtoferrate)), as well as Fig. 14 shows the temperature values ​​T in °C measured by the three temperature sensors T1, T2, T3. The sensor values ​​are plotted against time (in the form of dates).

[0104] In the period between mid-February and mid-March 2023 and the end of April to the beginning of May 2023, a repeated, multiple tipping of the sensor arrangement 100 on the snow cover is detected in the exemplary embodiment (marked with “A” in Fig. 12, 13, 14), since the position sensor determines a differential position of < 1 m to previously measured position values ​​and the acceleration / position sensor Acc measures a predetermined differential acceleration Aa of > ±100 mg / h.

[0105] In the exemplary embodiment, the fact that the sensor arrangement 100 lies freely on the snow cover or the snow mass to be monitored in the period from mid-February to mid-March 2023 and from the end of April to the beginning of May 2023 is determined by the position sensor providing position measurement values ​​and the temperature sensors T1, T2, T3 measuring temperature measurement values ​​T outside a predetermined temperature range of > +0.5 °C and < -0.5 °C. These temperature measurement values ​​T indicate that the temperature sensors T1, T2, T3 have registered frost and thawing processes.

[0106] Furthermore, the moisture measured values ​​F of the moisture sensors F1, F2, F3 in the period from mid-February to mid-March 2023 and from the end of April to the beginning of May 2023 also indicate that the sensor arrangement 100 is exposed to the snow cover or the snow mass to be monitored, since the moisture sensors T1, T2, T3 measured varying moisture measured values ​​F between < 500 fF and 12,500 fF, which indicates that the moisture sensors F1, F2, F3 have registered dry periods and thawing processes or precipitation. In the exemplary embodiment, the presence of a wet snow mass and thawing is determined in this context if the moisture measured values ​​F measured by the moisture sensors F1, F2, F3 exceed a moisture threshold value of 1,000 fF, which was repeatedly the case, for example, between February 23 and 25. In the period from February 19 to 22.However, in February the presence of a dry snow mass was detected, since the moisture values ​​F measured by the moisture sensors F1, F2, F3 fell below the moisture threshold of 1,000 fF.

[0107] From mid-March to the end of April 2023, a stable position of the sensor arrangement 100 in the snow cover is determined (marked with "B" in Figs. 12, 13, 14), since no position measurements are measured by the position sensor, although the position sensor has previously measured position measurements and is therefore fundamentally functional. Furthermore, the temperature measurements T measured by the temperature sensors T1, T2, T3 lie within a specified temperature range around the freezing point of -0.5 °C to +0.5 °C. The acceleration / position sensor Acc measures approximately constant acceleration values ​​a, which always fall below the specified threshold value of the differential acceleration of > ±100 mg / h. In the exemplary embodiment, the presence of a wet snow mass and thawing is detected almost continuously from mid-March to the end of April 2023, since the humidity measured values ​​F measured by the humidity sensors F1, F2, F3 exceed the humidity threshold value of 1,000 fF.

[0108] Furthermore, the exemplary embodiment provides the precipitation and temperature measurements measured by a weather station located in close proximity to the sensor arrangement 100, which measures the sensor measurements of the second exemplary embodiment. These measurements from the weather station can be used to verify the sensor measurements of the temperature and / or humidity sensors and also to calibrate the temperature and / or humidity sensors.

[0109] For example, the presence of a dry snow mass is determined when the precipitation values ​​NS measured by the weather station fall below a predefined precipitation threshold of 0.5 mm / h and the temperature values ​​T measured by the weather station fall below a predefined temperature threshold of +0.5 °C. This was the case, for example, between February 19 and 22, when the humidity values ​​F measured by the humidity sensors F1, F2, and F3 also fell below the humidity threshold of 1,000 fF.

[0110] The presence of a wet snow mass and thawing, however, is determined when the precipitation values ​​NS measured by the weather station WS exceed a predefined precipitation threshold of 0.5 mm / h and the temperature values ​​T measured by the weather station WS fall below a predefined temperature threshold of +0.5 °C. In the exemplary embodiment, this is repeatedly the case between February 23 and 25, for example, where the humidity values ​​F measured by the humidity sensors F1, F2, F3 also exceed a humidity threshold of 1,000 fF.

[0111] The threshold values ​​for the differential position or the differential acceleration, the humidity threshold, and the temperatures or temperature ranges specified as threshold values ​​for the sensor measurements, as well as the precipitation threshold and the temperature threshold for the weather station measurements, serve only as examples and can be determined, for example, based on test measurements or field tests, and / or evaluations of historical sensor measurement data, as well as on the basis of previous science and the corresponding snow models, and can be selected variably depending on the application and / or area of ​​application. Furthermore, it is possible, within the framework of a method according to the invention orUsing a sensor arrangement 100 according to the invention, translatory movements during a natural hazard event can be detected as a result of the gravimetric sliding of relevant mass movements with a nearly constant position and specific acceleration and vibration patterns, as well as turbulent movements as a result of the gravimetric sliding of relevant mass movements with a variable position due to specific changes in position and corresponding acceleration and vibration patterns. These characteristic acceleration and vibration patterns can also be determined based on test measurements or field tests, and / or evaluations of historical sensor measurement data recorded during natural hazard events, as well as on the basis of previous scientific knowledge and the corresponding snow models.

[0112] Although exemplary embodiments of a method according to the invention have been described above in connection with sensor measurement values ​​determined by a sensor arrangement 100 according to the invention, it is equally possible for the individual sensors to be housed separately in or on the snow mass or rock mass to be examined, in close proximity to one another, for example, within a few kilometers, and not in a common housing or sensor arrangement. This has no influence on the implementation, the sequence, and the accuracy of a method according to the invention.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Sensor arrangement (100) for continuous monitoring in the area of natural hazards and / or for detecting natural hazard events, in particular gravimetric mass movements, preferably avalanches, landslides, and rockfalls, comprising a housing (1) that can be dropped by means of an aircraft for, in particular, partial and / or full contact with a mass to be monitored for the occurrence of a gravimetric mass movement, in particular a snow mass, earth mass, or rock mass, at least one position sensor designed to determine the position of the housing, in particular in the form of geographical coordinates, at least one acceleration / position sensor (Acc), in particular for detecting position, translational movement, acceleration, and / or vibrations, at least one temperature sensor, a wireless communication device and / or a data memory, a power supply device, and a control unit,wherein the at least one position sensor, the at least one acceleration / position sensor (Acc), the at least one temperature sensor, the control unit, the communication device and the power supply device are each arranged in and / or on the housing, wherein the control unit is connected to the position sensor, the acceleration / position sensor (Acc) and the temperature sensor and is designed to control the sensors to measure sensor measured values, and wherein the control unit is connected to the communication device and / or the data memory and the power supply device and is designed to transmit sensor measured values determined by the sensors by means of the communication device and / or to store them in the data memory.

2. Sensor arrangement (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one humidity sensor is arranged in and / or on the housing (1), in particular on a side surface (2) of the housing (1).

3. Sensor arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least two, in particular three, preferably six, temperature sensors (T1, T2, T3) and / or humidity sensors (F1, F2, F3) are arranged in and / or on the housing (1), in particular on different side surfaces (2) of the housing (1).

4. Sensor arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the acceleration / position sensor (Acc) is designed as a 3D acceleration / position sensor.

5. Sensor arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the wireless communication device is designed to transmit and / or receive data via Long Range Wide Area Network LoRa-WAN, in particular for communication with LoRa gateways and / or LoRa servers, and / or in the range of an ISM band, and / or that the wireless communication device is designed to emit signals for avalanche search devices and / or sound signals, in particular depending on the operating mode of the sensor arrangement.

6. Sensor arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (1) has at least one corner and / or at least one flat surface and in particular has a regular, preferably cubic, shape.

7. Sensor arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (1) is designed to be waterproof, in particular pressure-stable and destructive-proof.

8. Sensor arrangement (100) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the housing (1) has reinforced corners with openings (4), in particular with screw threads, wherein in each opening (4) an outwardly projecting anti-slip device (6), in particular in the form of a spike or a knob, can be reversibly introduced, in particular plugged or screwed in.

9. Sensor arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the housing (1) has a device for reversible fixing to an aircraft, in particular a UAV or an AUS, wherein it is provided in particular that the device is designed as an interchangeable system for any desired holding devices, or preferably for a magnetic and / or eyelet holder.

10. Sensor arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit is designed to communicate with an external terminal for remote maintenance access by means of the communication device, in particular to receive control commands from the external terminal for controlling the sensors for measuring sensor measured values, preferably for setting the measuring interval of the sensors, and / or for transmitting sensor measured values, preferably position measured values, and / or for emitting signals for avalanche search devices and / or sound signals by means of the communication device, and / or for setting a functional mode of the sensor arrangement, in particular a test mode, deployment mode, operating mode and / or insertion mode, and / or to carry out a method according to one of claims 13 to 21.

11. Sensor arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control unit is designed to control the communication device for transmitting sensor measurement data when the sensor measurement value measured by, in particular, the at least one acceleration / position sensor (Acc) exceeds a predetermined data transmission acceleration threshold value, wherein it is provided in particular that at least one data transmission acceleration threshold value is stored in the control unit and / or in the data memory.

12. Sensor arrangement (100) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the energy supply device is designed to supply the sensor arrangement (100) with energy over a predetermined measuring period, in particular a winter season or comparable longer periods.

13. A method for continuous monitoring in the area of natural hazards and / or for detecting natural hazard events, in particular gravimetric mass movements, preferably avalanches, landslides and rockfalls, in particular using a sensor arrangement (100) according to one of claims 1 to 12, comprising the following steps: Determining electronic sensor measured values with at least one acceleration / position sensor (Acc), at least one temperature sensor, and at least one position sensor, wherein the at least one acceleration / position sensor, the at least one temperature sensor, and the at least one position sensor are arranged, in particular in spatial proximity to one another, on a mass to be monitored for the occurrence of natural hazard events, in particular gravimetric mass movements, in particular a snow mass, earth mass, or rock mass, preferably in full contact, jointly analyzing the sensor measured values of the at least one acceleration / position sensor (Acc), temperature sensor, and position sensor and Detection of the occurrence of a natural hazard event, in particular in the form of a gravimetric mass movement, preferably an avalanche, if the sensor measured values indicate that the at least one acceleration / position sensor (Acc), the at least one temperature sensor and / or the at least one position sensor are located within the mass to be monitored and the acceleration measured values (a) of the acceleration / position sensor (Acc) exceed a predetermined event detection acceleration threshold value.

14. The method according to claim 13, characterized in that it is determined that the at least one acceleration / position sensor (Acc), the at least one temperature sensor and / or the at least one position sensor are located within the mass to be monitored if no position measurement values are measured by the position sensor, although position measurement values were previously measured by the position sensor, and temperature measurement values (T) are measured by the temperature sensor within a predetermined temperature range around the freezing point of 0°C, in particular from -0.5°C to +0.5°C.

15. The method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that a predetermined differential acceleration (Aa) to acceleration measurement values (a) previously measured by the acceleration / position sensor (Acc), in particular a predetermined differential acceleration (Aa) of > ±100 mg / h, is specified as the event detection acceleration threshold value, wherein it is provided in particular that a warning signal is emitted when the event detection acceleration threshold value is exceeded.

16. Method according to one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that an exposure, in particular on a mass of snow, rock mass or earth mass, of the at least one position sensor and / or of the at least one temperature sensor is detected when position measurement values are measured by the position sensor and / or when temperature measurement values (T) are measured by the temperature sensor outside a predetermined temperature range, in particular of > +0.5 °C and / or < -0.5 °C.

17. The method according to one of claims 13 to 16, characterized in that a tilting of the at least one position sensor and / or the at least one acceleration / position sensor (Acc) is detected when the position sensor measures a predetermined differential position compared to position measurement values previously measured by the position sensor, in particular a differential position of < 1 m, and / or the acceleration / position sensor (Acc) measures a predetermined differential acceleration (Aa) compared to acceleration measurement values (a) previously measured by the acceleration / position sensor (Acc), in particular a predetermined differential acceleration (Aa) of > ±100 mg / h.

18. Method according to one of claims 13 to 17, characterized in that if the acceleration / position sensor (Acc) measures a predetermined differential acceleration (Aa) compared to previously measured acceleration values (a) by the acceleration / position sensor (Acc), in particular a differential acceleration (Aa) of > ±100 mg / h, and / or the position sensor measures a predetermined differential position compared to previously measured position values, in particular a differential Position of > 1 m, is measured and the measured position values lie within a predetermined position range, a rolling away of the at least one position sensor and / or the at least one acceleration / position sensor (Acc) is detected, and / or if the acceleration / position sensor (Acc) measures a predetermined differential acceleration (Aa) compared to acceleration measured values (a) previously measured by the acceleration / position sensor (Acc), in particular a differential acceleration (Aa) of > ± 100 mg / h, and / or if the position sensor measures a predetermined differential position compared to position measured values previously measured by the position sensor, in particular a differential position of > 1 m, and the measured position values lie outside a predetermined position range, a removal of the at least one position sensor and / or the at least one acceleration sensor is detected.

19. Method according to one of claims 13 to 18, characterized in that additional electronic sensor measured values are measured with at least one humidity sensor, wherein the at least one humidity sensor, in particular in spatial proximity to the at least one temperature sensor and / or position sensor and / or acceleration / position sensor (Acc), is arranged in and / or on a mass to be monitored for the occurrence of natural hazard events, in particular a snow mass, earth mass or rock mass, preferably in full contact.

20. Method according to claim 19, characterized in that the presence of a dry mass, in particular a dry snow mass, is determined when the moisture measurement values (F) measured by the moisture sensor fall below a predetermined moisture threshold value, in particular of 1,000 fF, and / or that the presence of a wet mass, in particular a wet snow mass and thawing, is determined when the moisture measurement values (F) measured by the moisture sensor exceed a predetermined moisture threshold value, in particular of 1,000 fF. 21 . Method according to one of claims 13 to 20, characterized in that that additional precipitation measurements (NS) and / or temperature measurements (T) of a weather station (WS) arranged in spatial proximity to the at least one humidity sensor and / or to the at least one temperature sensor are used and / or that the presence of a dry mass, in particular a dry snow mass, is determined if the precipitation measurements (NS) measured by the weather station (WS) fall below a predetermined precipitation threshold value, in particular of 0.5 mm / h, and the temperature measurements (T) measured by the weather station fall below a predetermined temperature threshold value, in particular of +0.5 °C, and / or that the presence of a wet mass, in particular a wet snow mass and thawing, is determined if the precipitation measurements (NS) measured by the weather station fall below a predetermined precipitation threshold value, in particular of 0.5 mm / h,and the temperature values (T) measured by the weather station fall below a specified temperature threshold, in particular +0.5 °C.

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