Research

Analysis and assessment of existing avalanche-related geocommunication implementations. This process aims to identify strengths and weaknesses in current implementations in order to gain valuable insights for further development. The scope and definition of objectives in the areas of geocommunication, usability, geodata foundations and practical relevance will be recorded. The results of the evaluation form the basis for the design of optimised methods and workflows within the framework of an overall project that is yet to be defined. The second part of the project deals with: (1) Supplementary evaluation and development of further methods for the functional, cartographic communication design of strategies for conveying avalanche-related information (2) Analysis and design of suitable methods and techniques for recording and analysing avalanche-related data and communicating its content within the framework of functional, cartographic communication design

State-of-the-art hazard analysis for debris flow processes requires the use of complex numerical models, the further development of which must follow both the latest scientific findings and adaptation to the findings of engineering practice. The DebrisFrame project is developing the foundations for a debris flow modelling framework based on the digital simulation tools of the open avalanche simulation framework AvaFrame. The principles of the development environment are openness of source, user-friendliness, comprehensive documentation and recommendations regarding a practice-relevant parameterisation. The focus of the developments is primarily on operational applicability in Austria, while at the same time laying the foundations for the academic requirements of training and research. On the basis of AvaFrame, functions for special mudflow modules/tools will be created on a similar basis to AvaFrame. Data of debris flow events from selected event documentation and current monitoring stations are systematically processed and serve as reference events and benchmarks for model testing. DebrisFrame will serve as a basis for the further development of an operational debris flow model for engineering practice. The project represents a significant innovation in the field of debris flow simulation. The improved determination of process areas and occurring forces supports the determination of exposure and vulnerability in risk management.

This project includes the data evaluation of the first operational data from sensors developed in previous projects using UAV/UAS for the contactless and non-contact recording of snow data. This method enables interference-free measurement of temperature, humidity, pressure and movement on avalanche slopes. The sensors are deployed in a test field in open terrain using UAV/UAS. A sensor network consisting of several sensor measurement boxes is set up at specific test locations. Regular data acquisition is carried out via a mobile base station which is stationary or mobile on the UAV. Furthermore, a concept is being developed on how avalanche commissions can use the data to assess local avalanche slopes. In previous projects, we have already developed a measuring system for moisture and temperature measurements in inaccessible avalanche starting areas, particularly with regard to sliding snow avalanches. With the measuring system developed in the preliminary projects, we are starting the first operational season this year on real avalanche slopes relevant to ÖBB. The measurement results will be checked for their practical suitability, validated with reference measurements, the data scientifically analysed and a final report written. We are aiming for an SCI publication as a scientific publication.