Environmental Sensor

I’ve been thinking about the grandson’s boat navigation system I’m making for him.  Particularly the location of the environmental sensor.  It measures Temperature, Humidity and Barometric Pressure.  Mounting it in the case inside the boat cabin isn’t going to produce accurate temperature and humidity readings.  It needs to be outside.  But that will expose the sensor saltwater.   I need to think of a mounting bracket that enables the sensor to accurately measure data whilst being protected.

Having worked out a potential design I started thinking about how to make the mount.   My thought was to use various sizes of pvc waterpipe. 

Whilst cycling last Monday I called in to see my brother where he proudly showed me his new 3D Printer which he was in the process of learning how to use.  

I immediately realised I'd found someone who could potentially make the mount.  

On my return home I sat at the pc and drew the mount using Google SketchUp.   His 3D Printer doesn't recognise the SketchUp file format (skp).  However I found an online conversion program which changed the file format to STL which is recognised.  Then I email him the file.

After further research I realised standard printer filament degrades in sunlight. But ABS filament has a longer life.   The local electronics store had a reel of ABS filament for $24 and my brother printed the mount yesterday.  He delivered the finished produce today.

The sensor will be secured inside the inner tube (right arrow) with the connector cable exiting through the base.  I’ll drill a series of small holes around the circumference of the cap (left arrow) will will equalise the exterior and interior atmosphere whilst preventing water from accessing the sensor.

The mount is approximately 120mm high on a base 60x60mm.  For two reasons it will need to be mounted as close as possible out of direct sunlight.   1.  Sunlight will heat it giving distorted measurement.  2.  Sunlight will eventually degrade the plastic.

I will drill a tiny hole in the base to allow condensation to exit.

Jan’s now saying “I suppose you want to buy a 3D Printer?”