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Building 3D-PAWS chevron-right Getting Started 3D-PAWS Build and Deployment Roadmap End-to-end roadmap for preparing, building, deploying, and maintaining a 3D-PAWS station.
Building and deploying a 3D-PAWS station follows a series of stages, beginning with printing the components and ending with long-term operation and maintenance.
The roadmap below outlines the typical workflow used to build, deploy, and operate a station.
Phase 1 — Preparation
Use a 3D printer to manufacture the structural components of the station.
Typical tasks include:
Printing instrument components
Removing supports and finishing parts
Preparing threads and fittings
Gathering hardware and tools
Proper preparation of printed parts significantly improves assembly success and long-term durability.
Build the individual instruments and prepare the data logger hardware.
Typical tasks include:
Wind sensors (anemometer and wind vane)
Radiation shield and environmental sensors
Preparing sensor cables and connectors
At the end of this stage, each instrument should be mechanically complete.
Phase 2 — System Integration
Connect sensors to the data logger and verify that the system is functioning correctly.
Typical tasks include:
Wiring sensors to the data logger
Confirming sensor readings
Performing initial calibration checks
Testing at this stage helps identify wiring or configuration issues before field deployment.
Set up the systems used to collect and visualize station data.
Typical tasks include:
Configuring the data logger (Particle or Raspberry Pi)
Creating a CHORDS station configuration
Setting up webhooks for data ingestion
Creating Grafana dashboards for visualization
Completing this stage before deployment makes it easier to verify that the station is transmitting data correctly during installation.
Phase 3 — Deployment
Choose a suitable location for the station using meteorological siting guidance such as WMO No. 8 arrow-up-right
Key considerations include:
Environmental exposure
Temperature and humidity sensors should be placed away from artificial heat sources.
Rain gauges should be positioned away from obstructions that block precipitation.
Wind sensors should be installed in areas with minimal turbulence.
Practical deployment considerations
Cellular or network signal availability
Safe access for installation and maintenance
Proper siting is critical for accurate meteorological observations.
Before field installation, assemble the full station structure and mount the instruments.
Typical tasks include:
Mounting sensors on the station frame
Connecting the sensors to the data logger
Installing the solar power system
Verifying cable routing and strain relief
Verifying the data coming in
This stage acts as a final system verification before deployment.
Deploy the station in the field and verify that the system is operating correctly.
Typical tasks include:
Installing the station structure
Verifying power and communications
Confirming real-time data transmission
Document important deployment information, including:
Station coordinates and elevation
Sensor heights above ground
Orientation and mounting configuration
Installation photos and notes
Phase 4 — Operation and Maintenance
Routine maintenance ensures reliable long-term observations.
Maintenance tasks may include:
Cleaning sensors and rain gauge funnels
Inspecting cables and connectors
Checking data quality and system health
Regular maintenance helps ensure consistent environmental observations over time.
