Building the Core Instruments

Assembly overview for the core 3D-PAWS instruments, including the rain gauge, anemometer, wind vane, and radiation shield.

The core 3D-PAWS station includes four primary instruments used to measure key atmospheric variables:

• Rain Gauge – precipitation measurement

• Anemometer – wind speed measurement

• Wind Vane – wind direction measurement

• Radiation Shield – air temperature and humidity measurement

These instruments form the foundation of most 3D-PAWS deployments and are typically assembled before configuring the data logger or installing the station in the field.

Each instrument uses 3D-printed structural components, low-cost sensors, and standardized wiring connections, allowing stations to be assembled with commonly available tools and materials.

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Assembly Overview

The core instruments can be assembled in any order depending on available components and build preference.

However, the rain gauge typically requires the most time, as it must be calibrated to ensure accurate precipitation measurements.

Many builders choose to assemble the rain gauge first so calibration can be completed early in the build process.

Once the instruments are assembled, they can be connected to the data logger and tested before installing the station.

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Core Instruments

Rain Gauge

The rain gauge measures precipitation using a tipping bucket mechanism. Rainwater collected in the funnel fills a small bucket until it tips, triggering a magnetic sensor that records a rainfall increment.

Accurate measurement requires calibration of the tipping mechanism, which can take additional time during the build process.

→ Rain Gauge Assembly and Calibration

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Anemometer

The anemometer measures wind speed using rotating cups or a propeller. As the cups spin, a sensor detects rotations and converts them into wind speed measurements.

→ Anemometer Assembly

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Wind Vane

The wind vane measures wind direction by rotating to align with the wind. The orientation of the vane is measured by a directional sensor and converted into compass direction.

→ Wind Vane Assembly

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Radiation Shield

The radiation shield protects the temperature and humidity sensor from direct sunlight and precipitation while allowing air to circulate around the sensor.

This ensures accurate measurements of ambient air conditions.

→ Radiation Shield Assembly and Wiring

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After Assembling the Instruments

Once the core instruments are assembled, the next step is to verify that the sensors are functioning correctly before installing the station.

→ Testing the Sensors

Testing the instruments before deployment helps identify wiring issues, calibration problems, or assembly errors.

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Adding Additional Instruments

3D-PAWS stations can also include additional environmental sensors depending on monitoring needs.

Optional instruments include:

• Stream or storm surge gauges

• Snow gauges

• Soil moisture sensors

• Air quality sensors

• Black globe temperature sensors

These instruments are described in the Adding Additional Instruments section of the manual.