Item: TOWARDS AN OPEN HARDWARE IOT PLATFORM FOR ADVANCED MEASUREMENT OF SNOWPACK PROPERTIES AND AVALANCHE INSIGHTS
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Title: TOWARDS AN OPEN HARDWARE IOT PLATFORM FOR ADVANCED MEASUREMENT OF SNOWPACK PROPERTIES AND AVALANCHE INSIGHTS
Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop 2024, Tromsø, Norway
Authors:
- Albert Loichinger [ University of Applied Science Eastern Switzerland, IPEK Rapperswil, Switzerland ]
- Felix Nyffenegger [ University of Applied Science Eastern Switzerland, IPEK Rapperswil, Switzerland ]
- Anselm Koehler [ Department for Natural Hazards, Austrian Research Centre for Forests, Innsbruck, Austria ]
- Jan Thomas Fischer [ Department for Natural Hazards, Austrian Research Centre for Forests, Innsbruck, Austria ]
Date: 2024-09-23
Abstract: Inflow sensor concepts such as particle tracking, offer a promising potential to further investigate avalanche dynamics. Beyond the scientific merit of such data, discussion with stakeholders like infrastructure operators and other public or private relevant entities underscores the potential for practical applications of insights into local snowpack properties. For instance, patrollers require more detailed and refined data to improve decision-making for avalanche control strategies, including determining the optimal timing for avalanche control operations. In collaboration with avalanche research and sensor development, the next generation of sensor nodes emerged with the goal to generate meaningful data and advanced insights into the snowpack and avalanche behavior. The aim is to create an open and expandable low-cost platform to support diverse applications within both academic research and professional avalanche mitigation. The platform will consist of mechanical, electrical and software modules, which can be combined to specific applications for both, stationary observation of the snowpack as well as detailed tracking of artificial avalanche particles. The initial phase of implementation aims to further evaluate and refine avalanche discrete element flow simulations with data collected by widely distributed IoT devices in the relevant avalanche track. These devices will be placed into the snowpack during winter to observe minor movements and collect climate data over several month with low-power consumption. Yet, the nodes are capable to wake up and switch to high frequency recording in the event of an avalanche. During observation, data is sent several times per day via narrow band IoT (NB IoT) to a cloud platform for analysis and visualization. Advanced sensors are to be developed in order to gain detailed information which are base for defined simulation models. Here are the liquid water contend, mechanical shear behavior and others in focus. Preliminary findings indicate promising communication performance using NB IoT and GNSS in comparable conditions. Goal is to include measured data into simulation models. During winter 24/25 extended test in avalanche test-sites are planned.
Object ID: ISSW2024_P8.5.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): Albert Loichinger
Keywords: Instrumentation, monitoring, sensors, particle tracking, IoT
Page Number(s): 1090 - 1094
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