Radiation Shield
Assembly and wiring guide for the radiation shield and its temperature, humidity, and pressure sensors.
Last updated
Was this helpful?
Assembly and wiring guide for the radiation shield and its temperature, humidity, and pressure sensors.
The radiation shield houses integrated environmental sensors to ensure accurate readings:
Temperature: Temperature measurements are provided by the SHT31D, MCP9808, and BMP390 sensors. The SHT31D and MCP9808 use precision semiconductor temperature-sensing elements whose electrical characteristics change predictably with temperature, enabling accurate, linear temperature measurements without a separate thermistor component. The BMP390 also measures temperature internally, providing a supplementary temperature observation as part of its pressure compensation system. Using three temperature sensors enables measurement verification, quality control, and improved confidence in reported environmental conditions.
Relative Humidity: Relative humidity is measured by the SHT31D using a moisture-sensitive polymer sensing element. As the amount of water vapor in the air changes, the capacitance of the sensing element changes proportionally, allowing the sensor to determine relative humidity.
Atmospheric Pressure: Atmospheric pressure is measured by the BMP390 barometric pressure sensor. The sensor uses a micro-electromechanical (MEMS) silicon diaphragm that flexes in response to changes in atmospheric pressure. These microscopic deflections are detected by piezoresistive elements embedded within the diaphragm and converted into highly accurate digital pressure measurements.
Wiring: All three sensors connect via I2C (shared SDA/SCL lines) to minimize wiring complexity. The radiation shield’s passive ventilation design protects sensors from direct sunlight, precipitation, and debris while maintaining airflow for precision.
The radiation shield is a passively ventilated enclosure that protects temperature, humidity, and pressure sensors from environmental interference while maintaining airflow for accurate measurements. Its multi-plate design minimizes exposure to direct sunlight, precipitation, and debris, while allowing ambient air circulation. The shield reduces radiative heating and thermal inertia, ensuring sensors measure true ambient air conditions rather than artificial microclimates.
This video demonstrates the entire assembly of the instrument. There is only one video in this particular playlist.
Last updated
Was this helpful?
Was this helpful?