WO2022042920A1

WO2022042920A1 - Measuring-device assembly having a flowrate sensor, method for mechanically securing network communication and/or a network access point of a measuring-device assembly, and use of an access-securing apparatus for a measuring-device assembly

Info

Publication number: WO2022042920A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/068964
Authority: WO
Inventors: Klaus Neher
Original assignee: GEO Gesellschaft für Energieversorgung Ostalb mbH
Priority date: 2020-08-24
Filing date: 2021-07-08
Publication date: 2022-03-03
Also published as: DE102020122036A1; DE102020122036B4

Abstract

The invention relates to a measuring-device assembly (1) having a flowrate sensor (2), wherein: - the flowrate sensor (2) has a network communication module (6a) for communicating with a network and/or a data interface module (6b) as a network access point to a network or the network; - the flowrate sensor (2) has a housing (3) for accommodating the network communication module (6a) and/or the data interface module (6b); - the housing (3) has a housing cover (4) for covering the housing (3). The measuring-device assembly (1) has an access-securing apparatus (10) for mechanically securing the flowrate sensor (2). The access-securing apparatus (10) is formed at least around an outer portion (21) of the flowrate sensor (2). The access-securing apparatus (10) is lockable, such that the access-securing apparatus (10) can be transferred into a blocking state S, in which blocking state S access to the network communication module (6a) and/or to the data interface module (6b) of the flowrate sensor (2) by means of the housing cover (4) is blocked by the access-securing apparatus (10) and the access-securing apparatus (10) is locked. The invention also relates to a method for mechanically securing network communication and/or a network access point of the measuring-device assembly (1) to the network, and to a use of the access-securing apparatus (10) for the measuring-device assembly (1).

Description

Measuring device arrangement with a quantity sensor, method for mechanically securing network communication and/or a network access point of a measuring device arrangement and use of an access protection device for a measuring device arrangement

The invention relates to a measuring device arrangement with the features of the preamble of claim 1. The invention also relates to a method for mechanically securing network communication and/or a network access point of the measuring device arrangement with the features of claim 11 and the use of an access blocking device for a measuring device arrangement with the features of claim 12.

Volume correctors are devices that can be connected to a gas meter, e.g. a bellows, turbine wheel or rotary piston gas meter, in order to read in volume-proportional pulses or original meter readings. Based on these impulses or counter readings of the gas meter, the operating volume can be converted into a standard volume by measuring the gas pressure and gas temperature using the volume converter. The volume correctors are installed for billing purposes, e.g. for a consumer/customer by a gas supplier, with the volume correctors being designed to communicate data, e.g. gas consumption, via a network, e.g. to the gas supplier. For example, the volume correctors have a modem for data communication, which transmits the data wirelessly or by cable. The data can be transmitted over several interfaces in a local or long-distance range. A consumer/customer network, e.g. a LAN or WLAN, can be used as a network, for example, in which the volume corrector is integrated.

The document DE 102 38 709 A1 appears to have an electronic one for this

Volume corrector with a central processor unit for recording and / or Processing of incoming counting pulses with an optical interface and a digital output for the output of counting signals corresponding to a counting result. In addition, the electronic volume corrector has a communication module with its own computer and memory unit for connecting further units, preferably a control center, an encoder counter, an electronic counter and/or an electronic gas meter. For example, the communication module is provided with a GSM module in order to wirelessly transmit the data to a central server unit.

The invention is based on the object of proposing a measuring device arrangement which prevents unauthorized access to a network, so that the measuring device arrangement has improved network security. This object is achieved by a measuring device arrangement having the features of claim 1, a method for mechanically securing network communication and/or a network access point of a measuring device arrangement having the features of claim 11 and using an access protection device for a measuring device arrangement having the features of claim 12. Preferred or advantageous embodiments of the invention result from the dependent claims, the following description and/or the attached figures.

The invention relates to a measuring device arrangement, in particular for measuring the quantity of a medium, preferably for measuring a volume flow of a gas. The measuring device arrangement is preferably arranged in the immediate vicinity of a measuring point, e.g. a gas line. For example, the measuring device arrangement is connected to a gas meter, e.g. a bellows, turbine wheel, or rotary piston gas meter, and/or has a gas meter.

The measuring device arrangement has a quantity sensor. The quantity sensor is preferably designed to accept a counter quantity, it being possible for the counter quantity to be passed on by the quantity sensor and/or to be passed on. In particular, the meter receives the meter quantity as meter data from the gas meter. Alternatively or optionally in addition, the volume sensor reads the meter data from the gas meter. This is preferable provided that the volume sensor is connected to the gas meter. The gas meter is designed, for example, as a so-called “intelligent” meter, with the gas meter transmitting digital meter data to the volume sensor. For example, the volume sensor is connected to the gas meter via a data cable. Alternatively, the gas meter has an optical, magnetic or mechanical counter. For example, the meter, eg an encoder meter, is scanned optoelectronically to determine the meter data and the meter data determined is transmitted to the quantity sensor. For this purpose, the quantity sensor preferably has one or more digital inputs and/or optical interfaces.

Within the scope of the invention, the volume sensor can be designed in different ways, with the volume corrector being designed, for example, as a data storage device. The data storage device has one or more interfaces, e.g. encoder interfaces, for the data connection to the gas meter or to the encoder register of the gas meter. The data storage device is preferably designed to receive meter data from the gas meter, the data storage device recording a performance measurement, e.g. B to determine a maximum load and/or to register load profiles of a gas system, based on the meter data. Furthermore, the data storage device is designed to transmit the meter data and/or determined information from the power measurement by remote data transmission, e.g. for billing purposes. In particular, the data storage device records a gas volume flow in an operating state. The data storage device preferably stores information on the gas volume flow in the operating state.

Alternatively, it is provided within the scope of the invention that the volume sensor is designed as a volume corrector. The volume corrector is designed to calculate a gas volume flow in the normal state. The volume corrector preferably has a pressure sensor and a temperature sensor. The pressure and temperature sensors are designed to measure a pressure and a temperature of the volume flow, in particular of the gas. Preferably the two Sensors formed directly flows around the medium. The two sensors are preferably arranged at the measuring point. For example, the pressure and temperature sensors are arranged on the gas line, with the two sensors measuring the pressure and the temperature of the gas inside the gas line. Alternatively, the pressure and temperature sensors are arranged in the gas meter. The pressure sensor and the temperature sensor generate measurement data, in particular analog measurement data, which are and/or can be made available to the volume corrector. A standard state of the volume flow, in particular the gas volume flow, can be calculated by the volume corrector based on the measurement data from the pressure and temperature sensors and the counter data from the gas meter. The calculated information includes, for example, a standard volume and a standard flow rate of the medium. Consequently, the volume corrector is suitable for determining and/or calculating a deviation in the volume flow between the operating state and the standard state. This can be necessary, for example, if the gas pressure at a consumer/customer differs significantly from the network pressure of the gas supplier.

The quantity sensor preferably has a computing module with a processor for calculating the information and a memory module for storing information. The quantity sensor preferably has an output and input device for displaying the calculated information and/or for setting or calibrating the quantity sensor. For example, the output and input device is formed by a display with an input field and/or by a touch display. The quantity sensor preferably has an energy supply device which supplies the named electrical components of the quantity sensor with energy. For example, the energy supply device is designed as a DC voltage source, e.g. a battery, so that the measurements of the volume sensor are and/or can be carried out independently.

The quantity sensor has a network communication module and/or a data interface module. The network communication module is designed to communicate with a network, eg a LAN and/or WLAN. Especially the calculated information of the volume flow in the standard state and/or in the operating state can be communicated via the network, eg to the consumer/customer. Consequently, the volume sensor is integrated into the network, for example a computer network with a number of network devices and/or network users. Alternatively or optionally in addition, the quantity sensor and/or the measuring device arrangement is integrated into a SCADA system for monitoring and control. The information and/or data from the network and from the quantity recorder are preferably encrypted in terms of data technology. The network is optionally embodied as a radio network for the wireless transmission of the information from the quantity collector. The selection of the communication and/or definition of a suitable network can be determined depending on a potentially explosive zone for gases in the measuring device arrangement. For example, a so-called EX zone 0 and 1 defines an area in which a dangerous, potentially explosive atmosphere as a mixture of air and combustible gases, vapors or mist forms constantly or occasionally. On the other hand, these do not normally occur in an EX zone 2, or at least only rarely and for a short time. For example, the use of an external energy supply, eg via an integrated wide-range power pack, in connection with eg a network communication module designed as an Ethernet module, is only possible in EX zone 2 for explosion protection.

The data interface clamp module is preferably designed as one or more serial interfaces and/or has them. The data interface module preferably has a number of different interfaces. For example, this has an optical interface and/or a wired interface, e.g. an RS-232, for commissioning and/or configuring the volume sensor, e.g. by a service technician.

In a further alternative of the quantity sensor, it is provided within the scope of the invention that the quantity sensor is designed as a function expansion device. In particular, the function expansion device has the network communication module for communication with the network. The function expansion device is preferably with another Volume corrector connected to receive signals, such as the meter data, for example via a data interface and / or a digital output of the further volume corrector, to communicate them to the network. The function expansion device is designed in particular as a network access point for the additional volume corrector. This can be necessary, for example, if the additional volume corrector does not have a corresponding network access point. For example, the network communication module of the function expansion device is embodied as a 2G or 3G modem for communication with a cellular network, so that the further volume corrector is and/or can be expanded to include cellular network access. In addition, the design of the measuring device arrangement with a function expansion device can be advantageous if the further volume corrector is arranged in a hazardous zone for gases, e.g. EX zones 0 and 1, with the function expansion device being arranged outside the hazardous zone for gases in order to further volume corrector to communicate with the network.

The quantity sensor has a housing for accommodating the network communication module and/or the data interface module. The basic shape of the housing is preferably a rectangular box, the housing preferably being made of a plastic material, a metal material, eg aluminum, or a composite material. The housing has, in particular, a component space for accommodating and/or forms this. The housing is designed to be open on one side, with the housing having a housing cover for covering the housing. The housing cover is suitable for covering the open side of the housing. For example, the housing cover has a rectangular shape. The case can be opened or closed through the case cover. For example, when the quantity sensor is in use, the housing is closed by the housing cover to leave the component installation space or to cover the network communication module and/or the data interface module. When in use, the housing cover closes the component installation space. the The housing cover is preferably connected to the housing via a pivoting device, eg a hinge. The housing can be opened or closed, for example, by a pivoting movement of the housing cover about a pivot axis of the pivoting device. Alternatively or optionally in addition, the housing cover is connected to the housing via one or more fastening means, so that, for example, the one or more fastening means, eg screws, must be loosened in order to open the housing. The output and input device is preferably arranged on the housing cover and/or integrated into it. Optionally, the network communication module and/or the data interface module is arranged and/or at least partially formed on an inside of the housing cover. In principle, all modules and/or electrical components of the quantity sensor can be designed as desired within the component installation space. The housing and/or the housing cover preferably has one or more connection openings, so that, for example, one or more connections, eg sealable digital outputs, can be routed outside the housing and/or the housing cover.

According to the invention, it is provided that the measuring device arrangement has an access protection device for mechanically securing the quantity sensor. In particular, the measuring device arrangement has the access protection device for mechanically securing the volume corrector and/or the data storage device and/or the function expansion device. The access security device is formed around at least an outer portion of the quantity pickup. The access security device is preferably formed around and/or arranged on an outer portion of the housing and the housing cover. In particular, the access protection device secures the housing and the housing cover against unauthorized access. In its basic form, the access securing device is preferably designed as a claw or clamp, so that it encompasses the volume sensor on both sides, for example, and/or encloses the volume sensor on two sides facing away from one another. The access protection device is preferably made of a metal material, for example hardened steel. The access protection device is designed to be lockable. The access protection device can preferably be locked by a locking device of the measuring device arrangement and/or is locked by this. The locking device is designed, for example, as a lock which can be locked and unlocked, for example, with a key.

The access protection device can be driven over into a blocked state. In particular, the access protection device is brought into the blocked state by locking the locking device. Particularly preferably, the access protection device can be operated in the blocked state to secure the quantity collector or in a released state to release the quantity collector and/or can be driven over from the blocked state to the released state. In the blocked state, access to the network communication module and/or the data interface module of the quantity collector via the housing cover is blocked by the access protection device, with the access protection device being locked in the blocked state. In the blocked state, access to the component installation space is mechanically blocked by the access securing device, so that unauthorized persons, for example, do not have access to the components installed inside the housing. In the locked state, the housing is secured by the access protection device in such a way that a detachable connection of the housing cover to the housing, for example via fastening means or the pivoting device, is blocked. In particular, the access protection device blocks the quantity sensor and/or the housing and the housing cover from the outside and/or from the outside. In particular, the access protection device protects the network in which the quantity collector is integrated from manipulation. In particular, the access security device is designed as a mechanical network security device, with unauthorized dialing into the network via the network communication module and/or the data interface module being blocked, for example. In the blocked state, it is provided in particular that the non-destructive opening of the quantity collector is blocked by the access protection device.

It is advantageous that the measuring device arrangement has mechanical security (access security device) for a network, so that a particularly high level of protection for the network, e.g. for a customer's internal network, is provided. Measurement data or other information that is exchanged between the network and a volume sensor is usually relatively well secured by encrypting the data, so that the data is protected against manipulation even when the volume sensor is accessed. However, volume sensors that are integrated into a network represent a security gap for the network. For example, unauthorized persons cannot attempt to access the measurement data, but rather gain access to the network via the volume sensor in order to steal other data, e.g. company data, or install malware on the network. It is advantageous that the measuring device arrangement with the access protection device blocks off the volume sensor from the outside, so that the network is secured in a particularly cost-effective manner and can be installed quickly. The access protection device can be flexibly adapted to the design of the volume sensor or the housing and the housing cover, so that a versatile measuring device arrangement is created. It is also advantageous that the access security device provides anti-theft protection for components of the quantity sensor, so that no components, e.g. electrical components, modules, memory card, SIM card or battery, can be removed or replaced inside the housing, e.g. by manipulated components.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the access securing device has a first and a second clamping body, in particular for gripping around the outer section of the quantity sensor. The first and the second clamping body are preferably made of a metal material, for example hardened steel. The first clamp body has a first jaw portion and the second clamp body has a second cheek section up. The two jaw sections are preferably designed in such a way that they each form a stop surface and/or contact surface for the volume sensor. In the locked state, the first jaw section is arranged on the housing cover and the second jaw section is arranged on the housing, in particular in a fixed position. The two jaw sections are preferably designed to be spaced apart from one another, with the quantity sensor being arranged between the two jaw sections in the blocked state, specifically held in a non-positive and/or positive manner. The jaw sections are designed in such a way that in the locked state, ie when the access protection device is closed, the housing cover is locked and/or blocked by the first jaw section. In the locked state, the first jaw section is connected to the second jaw section via the first and the second clamping body, so that the two jaw sections lock and/or forcefully support one another. In particular, the first clamping body is supported on the housing cover via the first jaw section, with the second clamping body being supported on the housing, in particular a rear side of the housing, via the second jaw section, so that the access security device is in positive contact with the outer section of the quantity sensor and/or is arranged. It is advantageous that a robust and reliable mechanical security for the volume sensor and/or the network is created by a two-part construction of the access security device. In addition, it is advantageous that the two jaw sections are only arranged on an outer section of the quantity sensor, so that the quantity sensor can be operated or read, for example from the output and input device. Furthermore, it is advantageous that complete encapsulation of the volume sensor, for example in a switch cabinet, is superfluous since the access protection device locks the volume sensor in a self-locking manner. As a result, a particularly cost-effective measuring device arrangement is created, which can do without complex installations for protection (switch cabinet).

In a preferred further development of the invention, it is provided that the access protection device has a fastening device. The fastening device is preferably arranged on the second clamping body. Alternatively or optionally in addition, the fastening device is arranged on the first clamping body. The fastening device is particularly preferably formed within the first and/or the second jaw section. The fastening device is preferably designed to fasten and/or mount the access securing device on the quantity sensor. Furthermore, it is provided that the fastening device connects the second clamping body and the housing in the locked state. Alternatively or optionally in addition, the first clamping body is connected to the housing cover and the housing via the fastening device in the locked state.

In a preferred constructional embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the fastening device has at least one through-opening for receiving a fastening means, eg a screw, of a surrounding structure. The surrounding structure is preferably a supporting structure which is arranged in a stationary manner at the measuring point. For example, the surrounding construction is a frame and/or a girder and/or a building wall. Alternatively, the surrounding structure can be formed by the gas meter and/or the gas line. The through-opening is preferably designed as a drilled hole, with the through-opening preferably having a drilled hole diameter of at least 3 mm, preferably at least 5 mm, in particular at least 7 mm. In a first fastening state of the access security device, provision is made for the fastening means to be accommodated in the through-opening. For example, the fastening means extends through the quantity sensor and can be and/or is connected to the access securing device via the through-opening of the fastening device. Furthermore, it is provided that the first and/or the second clamping body and the housing are connected to the surrounding structure for supported reception. Alternatively or optionally in addition, the first clamping body, the housing cover and the housing are connected to one another for the supported accommodation on the surrounding structure. At least one part of the access protection device, the first or the second clamping body, is preferably connected in a fixed position to the quantity collector, so that at least one part remains fixed on the quantity collector. For example, in the release state, the first clamping body can be detached and/or removed from the quantity sensor, the second clamping body remaining on the quantity sensor and being connected to the housing via the fastening device, the second clamping body being carried by the surrounding structure together with the housing and/or being portable. It is advantageous that the quantity sensor and the access protection device can be fastened together to a surrounding structure by means of one or more fastening means by means of the fastening device with through-opening. The first fastening state is particularly suitable if the quantity sensor can be and/or is preferably arranged on a building wall and/or not free-standing at the measuring point.

In a further preferred constructional embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the fastening device has at least one fastening pin. The fastening pin is preferably made of a metal material. The mounting pin is preferably formed perpendicular to the first and/or second jaw portion. Provision is also made for the fastening pin to be arranged in a mounting opening in the housing when the access security device is in a second fastening state. The assembly opening is preferably formed by one or more continuous bores in the housing. Alternatively, the mounting opening is designed as a blind hole on the back and/or a front side of the housing. An opening for a fastening means can preferably also be used as the assembly opening, which is basically designed for fastening the volume sensor to a surrounding structure and/or the connection of the housing cover to the housing.

It is further provided that the first and/or the second clamping body is fastened to the housing via the fastening pin, so that in the second fastening state the access securing device is arranged in a manner carried on the housing of the quantity sensor. Alternatively or optionally additionally, in the second fastening state, the first clamping body is fastened to the housing cover and the housing via the fastening pin. In the second attachment state, in contrast to the first attachment state, the quantity sensor carries the access protection device. The advantage is that by mounting the Access securing device via the fastening device with fastening pin in the release state, the first and the second clamping body can be completely detached and/or removed from the quantity sensor. It is particularly advantageous that the second fastening state is suitable for retrofitting the access security device in measuring devices, in particular volume sensors, so that measuring device arrangements can be inexpensively retrofitted with the access security device for mechanically securing a network.

In a preferred further development of the invention, it is provided that the at least one fastening pin is detachably connected to the fastening device. In particular, the fastening pin can be detached from the fastening device in a non-destructive manner. The fastening device has a threaded hole and/or the through-opening for the detachable connection of the fastening pin. The fastening pin preferably has an externally threaded section, the externally threaded section being connectable to the threaded bore and/or being detachably connected in the second mounting state. For example, the fastening pin can be screwed into the threaded hole for fastening.

Alternatively or optionally in addition, the fastening device has the through-opening, with a conical clamping section of the fastening pin preferably being arranged inside the through-opening. For example, the fastening pin clamps in the through-opening so that they are connected to one another.

Furthermore, it is provided that the access security device can be mounted either in the first or in the second mounting state, in particular by removing or connecting the mounting pin to the mounting device. If the fastening pin is released from the fastening device, for example, the access securing device can be fastened in the first fastening state via the exposed threaded hole and/or through hole. Conversely, when the mounting pin is connected to the fastener, the access security device is with the mounting pins in the mounting holes can be plugged on for assembly in the second assembly state. It is advantageous that the detachable connection of the fastening pin and fastening device creates a flexibly adaptable access protection device which can be mounted on the volume sensor or with the volume sensor depending on the installation location and/or installation conditions. This is particularly advantageous if the measuring device arrangement has a number of quantity sensors with different mounting conditions, with the access protection device being able to be mounted easily and quickly in the first or second mounting state by removing or connecting the mounting pin.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention it is provided that in the locked state the first and/or the second clamping body encompasses the housing cover and/or the housing with the first and/or the second jaw section, so that at least a partial area of the outer section is covered by the first and/or or the second jaw section is covered. The outer section is preferably formed by the back and a top of the housing and by the housing cover. For example, the access control device is placed externally on the quantity gauge, with the first and second jaw sections preferably being arranged on the rear side of the housing and the housing cover. Furthermore, it is provided that the covered partial area has the assembly opening of the housing and/or the housing cover for receiving the fastening pin and/or the fastening means. In the blocked state, the first and/or the second jaw section covers the assembly opening, so that disassembly of the quantity sensor and/or the access protection device is blocked. The mounting opening is preferably designed to be continuous from the rear of the housing through to the housing cover. In principle, the assembly opening is suitable for accommodating the fastening means and for fastening the housing of the volume sensor to a surrounding structure. The fastening means is preferably accessed via the housing cover. In the blocked state, this access is blocked, for example, by the first jaw section. The first jaw section covers the mounting opening so that, for example, the fastener in the mounting opening cannot be loosened, for example by a tool.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the first clamping body has a first bar section and the second clamping body has a second bar section. In their basic form, the first and second bar sections are preferably designed as hollow tubes, with the first and second bar sections preferably being bonded to the first and second jaw sections, respectively. For example, these are connected to one another via a welded joint. The spar sections are preferably designed with different diameters, so that one spar section can accommodate the other spar section in a supported manner and/or are accommodated in a supported manner in the locked state. Furthermore, it is provided that the first spar section can be displaced relative to the second spar section between a locked position and a release position. In the released position, the first spar section is preferably designed separately from the second spar section. On the other hand, in the locked position, it is preferably provided that the two bar sections are connected to one another in a bearing manner, with the two bar sections being displaced into one another in such a way that the two jaw sections bear against the housing and the housing cover. The first and second spar sections are preferably made of a metal material such as hardened steel.

In a preferred constructional embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the access securing device has a plurality of receiving openings for a locking device, the receiving openings being formed on the first and the second rail section. The receiving openings are preferably designed to be continuous through the first and the second bar section, with the receiving openings being arranged on the two bar sections in such a way that they can be arranged overlapping and/or superimposed. Furthermore, it is provided that in the locked state of the access security device, the first and second rail sections are displaced into the locked position and the locking device is locked inside the receiving openings. In the locked position of the spar sections is the access security device can be locked by the locking device via the receiving openings, wherein the locking device prevents and/or blocks a displacement of the two rail sections relative to one another, so that the access securing device assumes the blocked state. The locking device is preferably designed as a lock with a key, the locking device being able to be guided through the receiving openings located one above the other, so that the sliding apart of one spar section from the other spar section is blocked. The locking device is designed to be lockable, so that it can only be separated and/or detached from the access protection device and/or can be detached, for example, using the appropriate key.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the network communication module and/or the data interface module has a subscriber identification module with an identification card for identifying the quantity collector in the network. The identification card is preferably designed as a SIM card for identification in a cellular network. The subscriber identification module is designed to hold the identification card. For example, the identification card can be inserted into the subscriber identification module, with the subscriber identification module being designed to read out identification data from the identification card. The network communication module and/or the data interface module with the subscriber identification module is preferably in the form of a 2G or 3G modem for providing a radio connection to the mobile radio network. The measurement data, counter data and/or other data from the quantity sensor can preferably be communicated via the modem. For example, the data can be transmitted to the gas supplier and/or to a billing company by radio signal via the mobile radio network. The identification card, in particular the SIM card, is required to identify the volume sensor in the network and to establish a secure data connection with the volume sensor. Provision is also made for the access protection device to block the removal of the identification card from the subscriber identification module in order to secure the network in the blocked state. The subscriber identification module is arranged within the housing together with the network communication module and/or the data interface module, wherein in the locked state the access protection device blocks access via the housing cover, so that the identification card is secured against removal. In particular, unauthorized access to the mobile network is prevented. In particular, the network participants in the mobile radio network and the data sent and/or received by the quantity collector are secured by the access protection device. For example, replacing the SIM card with another SIM card, which would transmit the data to a different network, for example, can be prevented. It is advantageous that the access protection device mechanically secures the network communication module and/or the data interface module and at the same time prevents the identification card from being removed. As a result, the data, the data transmission and the connected networks are secured. Due to the access protection device, the volume sensor cannot be used as a network access point by unauthorized persons. A measuring device arrangement is thus created which is characterized by a high level of security for communication data and the connected networks. As a result, the measuring device arrangement represents a particularly trustworthy participant in a network.

A further subject matter of the invention relates to a method for mechanically securing a network communication and/or a network access point of a measuring device arrangement to a network. The measuring device arrangement has a volume sensor, for example for detecting a gas volume flow in a normal state, and an access protection device for shutting off the volume sensor. The network communication and/or the network access point are preferably provided by a network communication module and/or a data interface module of the quantity collector. The network communication is preferably set up wirelessly and/or with a cable using a LAN, a WLAN or a mobile radio network, the network being a public or private network, for example that of a consumer/customer. The network access point is, for example, through the data interface module provided, which is preferably designed as a wired interface, such as a serial interface. Alternatively or optionally in addition, the data interface module is designed as a Bluetooth or radio interface. The data interface module or the network access point is preferably suitable, for example to give a service technician access to data and/or the network for reading out information and/or for configuring the quantity sensor. The access securing device is preferably designed in two parts, with the access securing device preferably being made of a metal material, for example steel. The access security device preferably includes a first and a second clamp body, the first clamp body having a first jaw portion and the second clamp body having a second jaw portion for enclosing.

The method provides that the access protection device is switched to a blocked state, wherein in the blocked state the access protection device is arranged at least on an outer section of the quantity collector, wherein the access protection device is closed in the blocked state, preferably by a locking device, so that a housing with a housing cover of the Volume sensor is blocked by the access protection device for mechanically securing the network communication and / or the network access point of the volume sensor to the network, in particular the network communication module and / or the data interface module. The access protection device is preferably locked in the locked state by the locking device, e.g. a lock with a key, so that the housing and the housing cover are locked by the two jaw sections and/or access is blocked.

Another object of the invention provides a use of an access protection device for a measuring device arrangement, wherein the measuring arrangement and / or the method for mechanically securing the Network communication and / or a network access point of the measuring device arrangement is formed to a network as described above.

The access security device is used to externally lock off a housing with a housing cover of the flow sensor to prevent unauthorized access, e.g. by unauthorized persons, to the network communication and/or the network access point of the flow sensor to the network. Preferably, the access security device is used to prevent removal of an identification card, e.g., a SIM card, from a subscriber identification module within the housing.

Further features, advantages and effects of the invention result from the following description of preferred exemplary embodiments of the invention. show:

Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a measuring device arrangement on a

Measuring point with a quantity sensor as a preferred embodiment;

FIG. 2 shows a schematic representation of the quantity sensor from FIG. 1 with a housing with a housing cover in an open state as a preferred exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the quantity sensor from FIG. 1 or 2 with an access protection device in a release

and/or unassembled condition as a preferred

embodiment;

FIG. 4 shows a side view of the access security device from FIG. 3 with a first and a second clamp body as a preferred embodiment;

FIG. 5 shows a plan view of the second clamping body from FIG. 4 with a fastening device as a preferred exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 6 shows a schematic representation of the measuring device arrangement from FIG. 1 with a volume corrector as a volume sensor as a preferred exemplary embodiment;

FIG. 7 shows a schematic representation of the volume corrector from FIG. 6 or a further volume corrector with a function expansion device as a volume sensor as an alternative exemplary embodiment;

Figure 8 is a schematic representation of a data storage device

Quantity sensor as another alternative embodiment.

FIG. 1 shows a measuring device arrangement 1 at a measuring point 30 in a schematic representation. The measuring point 30 is formed by a gas line 31 through which a gas volume flow flows, for example. The measuring point 30 has a gas meter 32 which is connected to the gas line 31, with the gas volume flow flowing through the gas meter 32, for example, so that the gas meter 32 can measure a gas volume flow in the operating state. The gas meter 32 is designed, for example, as a rotary piston gas meter 33, the rotary piston gas meter 33 having an encoder counter 34 for detecting and displaying a quantity of the gas volume flow. Alternatively, the gas meter 32 is designed as a turbine wheel gas meter. Alternatively, the encoder counter 34 can also be a mechanical, an electromagnetic or an electric counter educated. For example, the measuring device arrangement 1 and/or the measuring point 30 is installed and/or arranged in a building of a consumer or gas customer in the area of a surrounding structure (not shown), the surrounding structure being designed as a building wall, for example.

The measuring device arrangement 1 has a quantity sensor 2, with the quantity sensor 2 being formed in the vicinity of the measuring point 30 or the gas meter 32, with the quantity sensor 2 being arranged on the surrounding structure, e.g. the building wall (not shown). For example, the quantity sensor 2 is attached to the surrounding structure via a detachable connection, e.g. a screw connection. The volume sensor 2 is connected to the gas meter 32 .

According to the exemplary embodiment in FIG. Furthermore, the volume corrector 20 is connected to the gas meter 32 and/or the gas line 31 for measuring a gas temperature and/or a gas pressure of the gas volume flow. Volume corrector 20 has, for example, a temperature and a pressure sensor, with the gas volume flow flowing around the sensors within gas meter 32 and/or gas line 31, for example, so that the sensors generate analog measurement signals and transmit them to volume corrector 20. According to the exemplary embodiment, the quantity corrector 20 is connected to the encoder counter 34 for reading out the detected quantity of the gas volume flow, the quantity corrector 20 being connected via an optical cable connection. For example, the volume corrector 20 and/or the measuring device arrangement 1 has an optical scanning device, which is arranged on the encoder index in order to read it optically and to generate an optical measurement signal, the optical measurement signal being sent via the optical cable connection to the volume corrector 20 for calculation is transmitted and/or is transmittable. For example, the encoder counter 34 generates counter data, which the volume corrector 20 reads out. The volume corrector 20 is suitable for generating data based on the analog measurement signals from the temperature and/or pressure sensor and based on the optical measurement signal from the encoder counter, the volume corrector 20 using the data calculates the gas volume flow in a standard state. As a result, deviations in gas consumption, for example due to different pressures between a supply network and a consumer network, can be calculated.

The volume sensor 2 and/or the volume corrector 20 has a housing 3 , the housing 3 having a housing cover 4 for covering or closing the housing 3 . The housing 3 is made of aluminum, for example, with the housing 3 being arranged with a rear side against the surrounding structure, the housing 3 being supported by and/or structurally attached to the surrounding structure. The case cover 4 is arranged on a front side of the case 3 so that the case cover is formed as a face side, e.g., to an open space. The housing cover 4 is made of aluminum, for example, with the housing cover 4 being screwed onto the housing 4, for example. The housing cover 4 has an output and input device which, according to the exemplary embodiment, is designed as a display 5a and an input field 5b. For example, measured values for the gas volume flow in the normal and operating state can be displayed on the display 5a. The input field 5b can be used, for example, to make a selection in a menu, from a mode, or to set and/or configure the volume corrector 20 .

The measuring device arrangement 1 has an access protection device 10 . The access securing device 10 is arranged on an upper side of the volume sensor 2 , the access securing device 10 locking the volume sensor 2 . The access protection device 10 is formed on an outer portion of the quantity sensor 2 , the outer portion being formed by the upper side, a partial area of the rear side of the housing 3 and a partial area of the housing cover 4 according to the exemplary embodiment. In principle, the access securing device 10 can be arranged on a side surface or on an underside of the quantity collector 2 . The access protection device 10 is suitable for locking the housing 3 with the housing cover 4 and/or for blocking access to the interior of the housing 3 via the housing cover 4 . For this purpose, the access protection device 10 is lockable, the Access protection device 10 can be locked by a locking device (not shown). In FIG. 1, the access securing device 10 is shown in a blocked state S, with access to the housing 3 being secured via the housing cover 4 in the blocked state.

According to the exemplary embodiment, access securing device 10 is arranged in FIG. 1 in a first fastening state B1, access securing device 10 being arranged or screwed, for example, together with housing 3 to the surrounding structure (building wall). In the first attachment state B1, the access security device 10 is supported by the surrounding structure.

Volume corrector 20 has a number of electrical parts and/or components, as shown schematically in FIG. In FIG. 2, the volume corrector 20 is shown in an open state, with the housing 3 and the housing cover 4 being arranged separately and/or detached from one another. The housing cover 4 is movably connected to the housing 3 via a pivot device 7e. The pivoting device 7e is arranged on the underside of the housing, with the housing cover 4 being able to be opened downwards, for example by a pivoting movement about a pivoting axis of the pivoting device 7e.

The housing 3 and the housing cover 4 have a plurality of mounting openings 9 which are formed as drill holes in four corner areas in the housing 3 and the housing cover 4, respectively. The mounting openings 9 extend from the front of the housing 3 or the housing cover 4 to the rear of the housing 3. The mounting openings 9 are designed to receive fastening means in order to connect or fasten the housing 3 to, for example, the surrounding structure. For example, the housing 3 can be mounted via the mounting openings 9 in the first mounting state B1. Alternatively or optionally in addition, the assembly openings 9 are suitable for accommodating fasteners in order to close the housing cover 4 with the housing 3 in a closed state bring. The housing 3 has a component installation space K and/or forms this through its structural shape. Several different electrical parts and/or components are arranged and/or installed in the component installation space K, it being possible for the components to be positioned as desired. The volume corrector 20 has a network communication module 6a and a data interface module 6b, which are indicated schematically in FIG. The network communication module 6a is designed to communicate with a network, for example a LAN, a WLAN, a mobile radio network, for example a GSM/UMTS mobile radio network (2G, 3G). The data interface module 6b is designed, for example, to be connected to a mobile terminal device, for example by a service technician, in order to set up a data connection in a close range. The network communication and the data interface module 6a, b are connected to a computing module 7a of the volume corrector 20. The computing module 7a has a processor 7b which is designed, for example, to calculate the measured values of the gas volume flow in normal operation. The volume corrector 20 has a memory module 7f, which is designed to store the measured values and/or measured data. The volume corrector 20 has a battery 7c, which is designed to supply the electrical parts and/or components with electrical energy. The volume corrector 20 has a pressure cell device 7d, which is connected, for example, to the pressure sensor (not shown) and/or is formed together. The enumeration of the components is not intended to be restrictive, for example further or other components can be installed.

The network communication module 6a has a subscriber identification module 8a, which is only indicated in FIG. 2, the subscriber identification module 8a being integrated in the network communication module 6a. Alternatively, the data interface module 6b has the subscriber identification module 8a. The subscriber identification module 8a has a carrier and/or holding unit for an identification card 8b, the identification card 8b being indicated in FIG. 2 by a dotted line. The identification card 8b is designed, for example, as a SIM card, which for Identification of the volume converter 20 is included in the mobile network in the subscriber identification module 8a.

When the housing 3 is open and/or the volume corrector 20 is in a release state F, the identification card 8b can be removed; in particular, the identification card 8b can be removed from the subscriber identification module 8a without tools. For example, in this state the identification card 8b can be replaced by another one, so that the volume corrector 20 sends the measurement data to another mobile network and/or as another subscriber in the mobile network. As a result, an unauthorized person can gain access to a network and to the data of the volume corrector 20, for example. The same applies to the other connected networks, e.g. the LAN, which is designed, for example, as an internal network of the consumer/customer. For example, in the release state F, i.e. when the housing 3 is open, an unauthorized person can gain access to the internal network in order to access data from other network participants, e.g. computers, servers or other measuring devices, to manipulate it and/or to install malware.

FIG. 3 shows the measuring device arrangement 1 with the quantity sensor 2 and the access protection device 10 in an unassembled or in an assembly step. The quantity sensor 2 has the housing 3 with the housing cover 4, which are arranged in a closed state. The access control device 10 is formed around an outer portion 21 of the quantity receiver 2, the access control device 10 being formed in a two-part and/or separate state. The outer section 21 is formed essentially in an upper third, in the region of the upper side, of the volume sensor 2, the outer section 21 being shown as a dashed line in FIG. The access security device 10 has a first and a second clamping body 11a, b. The first and the second clamping body 1 1 a, b are designed in their basic form as two T-shaped jaws and / or clamps, which are mirrored opposite to the assembly. The first clamp body 1 1 a has a first jaw portion 12a, which at the outer section 21 can be arranged. The first and second jaw portions 12a,b are formed as an L-shaped angle, these being adapted to be applied to an edge of the quantity sensor 2. The first jaw section 12a is designed to rest on the housing cover 4, or is arranged on the upper edge of the housing cover 4 in an assembled state and/or in the locked state S. In the locked state S, a partial area 22 of the outer section 21 is covered by the first jaw section 12a. The partial area 22 is shown in FIG. 3 as a dotted line. The partial area 22 has the assembly openings 9, which are formed on the housing cover 4 as an access for a fastener (not shown). The assembly openings 9 extend, as shown and described above in Figure 2, through the housing 3. If the assembly is carried out, for example, in the first fastening state, e.g. on the building wall, the fastening means is via the assembly openings 9 in the partial area 22 on the side of the housing cover 4 for fastening feedable. If the first clamping body 11a is arranged on the outer section 21 in the locked state S, the first jaw section 12a is located in the partial area 22, with the first jaw section 12a covering the assembly openings 9. For example, in the locked state S, the fastening means in the mounting opening 9 cannot be released.

The second clamping body 1 1 b is arranged on the back of the housing 3 or can be connected to it. In the locked state S, the second clamping body 11b is arranged with the second jaw section 12b on an upper edge of the housing 3 . The access security device 10 has a fastening device 14, the fastening device 14 being arranged on the second clamping body 11b. The fastener 14 is formed within the second jaw portion 12b, the fastener 14 having a fastener pin 16 for detachable connection to the housing 3. As shown in FIG. The fastening pin 16 is connected to the second jaw section 12b, for example by a screw connection, the fastening pin 16 being formed perpendicular to an abutment surface of the second jaw section 12b for the rear of the housing 3. The fastening pin 16 is designed essentially as a mandrel, the fastening pin 16 in the mounting opening 9 for receiving the second Clamp body 1 1 b can be inserted. In the locked state S, the mounting pin 16 is fully accommodated in the mounting hole 9 . According to the exemplary embodiment in FIG. 3, the fastening device 14 is designed with the fastening pin 16 for fastening the access security device 10 to the volume sensor 2 in the second fastening state B2. The housing 3 carries the second clamping body 11b via the fastening pin 16 of the fastening device 14. In the locked state S, access to the fastening pin via the front side of the mounting opening 9, i.e. via the housing cover 4, is also blocked by the first jaw section 12a, so that for example, the mounting pin 16 cannot be detached and removed from the second jaw portion 12b via the front. For example, in the second attachment state B2 the volume sensor 2 is attached to the gas meter 32 and/or the rotary piston meter 33 and/or the gas line 31 with the underside of the housing 3 or via the two lower assembly openings 9 .

The access securing device 10 has a plurality of receiving openings 17 which are formed on the first and on the second clamping body 11a, b. The first and the second clamping body 1 1 a, b has a first and a second bar portion 15a, b, which are connected to the two jaw portions 12a, b. For example, these are integrally connected to one another via a welded connection. The two spar sections 15a, b are designed in their basic form as a hollow tube, the first spar section 15a having a smaller diameter than the second spar section 15b, so that the first spar section 15a can be accommodated in the second spar section 15b. In each case two receiving openings 17 are arranged diametrically opposite one another on the first and the second spar section 15a, b, so that in the blocked state S the two pairs of receiving openings 17 lie one above the other. For example, the locking device (not shown) can be guided through the receiving openings one above the other, so that the locking device blocks displacement of the first rail section 15a from the second rail section 15b. In Figure 3, the two spar sections 15a, b are shown in a release position FP, in which the two spar sections 15a, b are arranged in an exposed manner, with free access to the electronic components of the quantity sensor 2 being possible.

FIG. 4 shows the access protection device 10 in a side view as a preferred exemplary embodiment. As previously shown and described in FIG. 3, the access security device 10 has the first and the second clamping body 11a, b with the first and the second jaw section 12a, b and with the first and the second bar section 15a, b. The second clamping body 1 1 b has the fastening device 14 with the fastening pin 16 . The two spar sections 15a, b are shifted into one another and/or arranged so that they are mutually supported, so that the two spar sections 15a, b assume a blocked position SP, in which the pairs of receiving openings 17 are arranged one above the other. In order to move the access protection device 10 into the blocked state S, a lockable locking device 40 is guided through the receiving openings 17 and is designed in a closed state. The locking device 40 is only indicated with dashed lines in FIG. 4 and is designed, for example, as a padlock.

The fastening device 14 is shown in FIG. 5 in a preferred exemplary embodiment, the second clamping body 11b being shown in a plan view in FIG. The fastener assembly 14 is secured to the second jaw portion 12b, with the fastener 14 having an aperture 18 therethrough. A fastening means 50, e.g. a screw, can be guided through the through-opening 18, so that the access securing device 10 can be mounted, for example in the first fastening state B1. For this purpose, the fastening means 50 is guided completely through the through-opening 18 and fastened or screwed to the surrounding structure.

Alternatively or optionally in addition, the fastening device 14 has a threaded bore 19 for the detachable connection to the fastening pin 16 . For example, the fastening pin 16 has an externally threaded section which can be screwed into the threaded bore 19 . This allows the access security device 10 to be attached in the second attachment state B2 will. If the fastening pin 16 is removed via the detachable connection, the threaded bore 19 is suitable for receiving the fastening means 50 in order to mount the access security device 10 in the first fastening state B1. Consequently, according to this exemplary embodiment, assembly is possible in either the first or in the second attachment state B1, B2.

FIG. 6 shows the measuring device arrangement 1 from FIG. 1 in a highly schematized representation, with the quantity sensor 2 being designed as a first preferred exemplary embodiment. In FIG. 6, the volume sensor 2 is designed as a volume corrector 20, which is designed to detect and/or calculate a standard volume of the gas flow. The measuring arrangement 1 and/or the measuring point 30 is designed as in FIG. 1 and has the gas line 31 which is fluidically connected to the gas meter 32 . The gas meter 32 has the encoder counter 34 . The volume corrector 20 has an interface, e.g., an optical interface, for the encoder index to sample and collect meter data. The volume corrector 20 has a counter connection 27 which is connected to the encoder counter 34 . The meter connection 27 is designed, for example, as a digital data cable or as an optical data cable. Alternatively or optionally in addition, the interface, e.g. the optical interface, of the volume corrector 20 has the counter connection 27 and/or is formed by this.

The volume corrector 20 has a pressure connection 25 and a temperature connection 26 which are connected to the gas meter 32 . Alternatively, these are connected to the gas line 31 . The volume corrector 20 is designed to measure a pressure and a temperature of the gas volume flow. The volume corrector 20 uses the counter data from the encoder counter 34 and the measured temperature and pressure of the gas volume flow to generate a standard volume of the gas.

The volume corrector 20 is connected to a supply voltage connection 29 for the energy supply. Alternatively, the volume corrector 20 has a battery (not shown). The volume corrector 20 shows that Network communication module 6a and/or the data interface module 6b, one or the other being designed to communicate with the network via a wireless connection. For example, the network communication module 6a has the subscriber identification module 8a with the identification card 8b. The volume corrector 20 transmits, for example, the information such. B standard volume, meter data, etc., via mobile phone connection, eg via 2G or 3G standard, to the mobile network. For this purpose, for example, the identification card 8b designed as a SIM card is in the carrier and/or holding unit (not shown) of the subscriber identification module 8a in order to set up the cellular connection to the cellular network and to identify oneself there as a network user.

In order to protect the cellular network from unauthorized access and/or use, the identification card 8b inside the volume corrector 20 is protected by the access security device 10 from being removed. The access securing device 10 is designed as described above, the access securing device 10 preventing the removal of the identification card 8b in that the access securing device 10 closes the housing cover 4 with the housing 3 .

In FIG. 7, the measuring device arrangement 1 is designed with the quantity sensor 2 in an alternative and/or optionally supplementary embodiment. The measuring device arrangement 1 has a function expansion device 23 as a quantity sensor 2 . Furthermore, the measuring device arrangement 1 has the volume corrector 20 and/or a further volume corrector 20a (hereinafter only referred to as the “further volume corrector 20a”), which can also be seen as a second volume sensor 2 . The structure of the measuring device arrangement 1 and the measuring point 30 corresponds to that from FIG. This is suitable for transmitting data, for example the meter data or the standard volume of the gas, from the further volume corrector 20a to the function expansion device 23. Again, the function expansion device 23 supplies the further volume converter 20a with a supply voltage via the data transmission and voltage connection 28, the function expansion device 23 being supplied with electrical energy via the supply voltage connection 29.

According to this exemplary embodiment, the function expansion device 23 has the network communication module 6a. The network communication module 6a has the network access point. For example to the mobile network. Consequently, the function expansion device 23 has the subscriber identification module 8a and the identification card 8b. The measuring device arrangement 1 has the access protection device 10, the access protection device 10 being arranged on the function expansion device 23 in order to protect the network access point via the function expansion device 23 to the mobile radio network. This design is advantageous if the further volume corrector 20a has a network communication module, but this cannot establish a mobile radio connection (no 2G/3G modem). The function expansion device 23 is connected to the additional volume corrector 20a in order to expand the mobile radio function of the measuring device arrangement 1 .

Optionally, in addition, the measuring device arrangement 1 has a second access protection device 10, one of the access protection devices 10 being arranged on the function expansion device 23 and the further volume corrector 20a. The access protection device 10, which is designed to protect the further volume corrector 20a, is indicated in FIG. 7 with dashed lines. In principle, the mobile network is already secured by the access protection device 10 on the function expansion device 23, with another network access point and/or a Data interface access is protected by the other access protection device 10 via the further volume corrector 20a.

FIG. 8 shows an alternative exemplary embodiment of the measuring device arrangement 1 or of the quantity sensor 2 in a further schematic illustration. The volume sensor 2 is designed as a data storage device 24, with the data storage device 24 being connected to the gas meter 32 only via the meter connection 27, in contrast to the volume corrector 20, 20a shown in FIGS. As a result, there is no pressure connection and temperature connection, so that the pressure and temperature of the gas volume flow are not measured. The data storage device 24 merely reads the counter data of the encoder counter 34 to detect and store an operating volume of the gas. The data storage device 24 has the network communication module 6a for communication with the network, e.g. The access protection device 10 is arranged on the data storage device 24 . As with the volume corrector 20 and the function expansion device 23, access to the network, e.g. the cellular network, via the data storage device 24, e.g. by removing the SIM card, is protected by the locked access protection device 10.

The volume corrector 20, the function expansion device 23 and the data storage device 24 can, for example, have different structural dimensions and/or different design features. The access security device 10 is designed in such a way that it can be adapted, for example, to housings 3 and/or housing covers 4 of different sizes. For example, the quantity sensors 2 differ in that

Design feature that the mounting openings 9 are positioned differently on the housing 3 and / or the housing cover 4, wherein the

Access securing device 10 has, for example, a flexibly adaptable fastening device 14 with adjustable fastening pins 16 and/or a plurality of through openings 18 and/or threaded openings 19 . In addition, the access security device 10, for example, by several pairs Receiving openings 17 for the locking device 40 can be adjusted in such a way that it can be adjusted to different depths of the quantity sensor 2 and/or is adjustable.

Reference List

1 gauge assembly

2 flow sensors

3 housing

4 housing cover

5a display

5b input field

6a network communication module

6b data interface module

7a calculation module

7b processor

7c battery

7d load cell setup

7e swivel device

8a subscriber identification module

8b identification card

9 mounting holes

10 access security device

11a first clamping body

11 b second clamping body

12a first jaw section

12b second jaw section

14 fastening device

15a first spar section

15b second spar section

16 mounting pin

17 receiving opening

18 through hole

19 threaded hole

20 volume correctors

20a more volume converters

21 outer section 22 section

23 function expansion device

24 data storage device

25 pressure port connection

26 temperature port connection

27 meter connection connection

28 Data transmission and power connection

29 supply voltage connection

30 measuring point

31 gas line

32 gas meters

33 rotary gas meter

34 encoder counter

40 locking device

50 fasteners

S lock state

F release status

K component space

B1 first attachment state

B2 second state of attachment

SP lock position

FP release position

Claims

36 patent claims:

1. Measuring device arrangement (1) with a quantity sensor (2), the quantity sensor (2) having a network communication module (6a) for communication with a network and/or a data interface module (6b) as a network access point to a network or the network, the quantity sensor ( 2) has a housing (3) for accommodating the network communication module (6a) and/or the data interface module (6b), the housing (3) having a housing cover (4) for covering the housing (3), characterized in that the measuring device arrangement (1) has an access securing device (10) for mechanically securing the volume sensor (2), the access securing device (10) being formed around at least an outer section (21) of the volume sensor (2), the access securing device (10) being designed to be lockable, so that the access protection device (10) in a locked state (S) can be converted, wherein in the locked state (S) access to the network communication module (6a) and/or the data interface module (6b) of the quantity sensor (2) is blocked via the housing cover (4) by the access protection device (10) and the access protection device (10) is locked.

2. Measuring device arrangement (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the access securing device (10) has a first and a second clamping body (11a, b), the first clamping body (11a) having a first jaw section (12a) and the second clamping body (11b) a second jaw section (12b) 37, wherein in the locked state (S) the first jaw portion (12a) is disposed on the housing cover (4) and the second jaw portion (12b) is disposed on the housing.

3. Measuring device arrangement (1) according to claim 2, characterized in that the access protection device (10) has a fastening device (14), wherein the fastening device (14) in the locked state (S) the first and / or the second clamping body (1 1 a , b) and the housing (3) connects.

4. Measuring device arrangement (1) according to Claim 3, characterized in that the fastening device (14) has at least one through-opening (18) for receiving a fastening means (50) of a surrounding structure, wherein in a first fastening state (B1) the access protection device (10) Fastening means (50) is accommodated in the through-opening (18), so that the first and/or the second clamp body (11a, b) and the housing (3) are connected to the surrounding structure for supported accommodation.

5. Measuring device arrangement (1) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the fastening device (14) has at least one fastening pin (16), wherein in a second fastening state (B2) of the access security device (10) the fastening pin (16) in a mounting opening

(9) of the housing (3), the first and/or the second clamping body (11a, b) being attached to the housing (3) via the attachment pin (16), so that in the second attachment state (B2) the access security device

(10) on the housing (3) of the quantity sensor (2) is carried.

6. Measuring device arrangement (1) according to claim 5, characterized in that the at least one fastening pin (16) is detachably connected to the fastening device (14), the fastening device (14) having a threaded bore (19) and/or the through-opening (18) for detachable connection of the fastening pin (16), so that the access security device (10) can be mounted either in the first or in the second fastening state (B1, B2).

7. Measuring device arrangement (1) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that in the locked state (S) the first and/or the second clamping body (11a, b) is connected to the first and/or the second jaw section (12a, b) surrounds the housing cover (4) and/or the housing (3) so that at least a partial area (22) of the outer section (21) is covered by the first and/or second jaw section (12a, b), the covered partial area (22 ) has the assembly opening (9) of the housing (3) and/or the housing cover (4) for receiving the fastening pin (16) and/or the fastening means (50).

8. Measuring device arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first clamping body (11a) has a first bar section (15a) and the second clamping body (11b) has a second bar section (15b), the first Rail section (15a) relative to the second rail section (15b) between a locked position (SP) and a release position (FP) is displaceable.

9. Measuring device arrangement (1) according to claim 8, characterized in that the access securing device (10) has a plurality of receiving openings (17) for a locking device (40), the receiving openings (17) on the first and the second spar section (15a, b) are formed, wherein in the locked state (S) of the access security device (10) the first and the second rail section (15a, b) are displaced in the locked position (SP) and the locking device (40) is locked inside the receiving openings (17).

10. Measuring device arrangement (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the network communication module (6a) and/or the data interface module (6b) has a subscriber identification module (8a) with an identification card (8b) for identifying the quantity sensor (2) in the network , wherein in the locked state (S) a removal of the identification card (8b) from the subscriber identification module (8a) is blocked by the access security device (10) to secure the network.

1 1. A method for mechanically securing a network communication and/or a network access point of a measuring device arrangement (1) to a network, the measuring device arrangement (1) having a volume sensor (2), characterized in that an access protection device (10) is switched to a blocked state (p ) is transferred, wherein in the blocked state (S) the access securing device (10) is arranged at least on an outer section (21) of the volume sensor (2), wherein the access securing device (10) is closed in the blocked state (S) so that a housing (3 ) with a housing cover (4) of the volume sensor (2) by the access security device (10) for mechanically securing the network communication and / or the network access point of the volume sensor (2) to the network is blocked.

12. Use of an access protection device (10) for a measuring device arrangement (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10 and/or in a method according to claim 11 for mechanically securing the network communication and/or a network access point of the measuring device arrangement (1) to a network, wherein the measuring device arrangement (1) has a quantity sensor (2), characterized in that the access protection device (10) is used to externally block off a housing (3) with a housing cover (4) of the quantity sensor (2) to prevent unauthorized access to the To prevent network communication and / or the network access point of the quantity sensor (2) to the network.