Snow Sensor Mounting Notes

MaxBotix Inc has recently released a reliable, high accuracy, and inexpensive sensors for precision snow depth measurement. The MB7334, MB7344, MB7354, MB7364, MB7374, & MB7384 HRXL‑MaxSonar‑WR Ultrasonic Snow Sensors are an evolution of our HRXL-MaxSonar-WR product line.

In the real world snow environment, at our facilities in northern Minnesota, this sensor line was proven and optimized, yielding design solutions that previously hindered competing sensors. These improvements include continued performance during heavy snowfall conditions, responsive accurate temperature compensation, and continued performance during high wind conditions.

The end results are the HRXL-MaxSonar-WRS Snow Depth Sensors. These new snow depth measurement products represent another addition to our continuous expansion of ultrasonic sensor offerings tailored to meet our customers’ requirements.

Snow Sensor Datasheet

Mounting Considerations

When using an HRXL-MaxSonar-WRS it is important to take into account two additional considerations.

First, because of the high gain of the sensor, it is important to mount the sensor far enough away from any supporting masts or towers. For a mast that is 5 meters high (or higher), the sensor should be mounted at least 100cm away from the mast. For a mast that is 2.5 meters high (or lower), the sensor should be at least 75cm away from the mast. (This corresponds to a mounting clearance angle of 11.3 degrees).

Second, for users desiring the highest accuracy using a properly mounted external temperature sensor is recommended.

Mounting Components

Sensor Shroud (Conceptual Design)

Figure 1

The shroud component is assembled over the top of the HRXL‑MaxSonar‑WRS sensor housing. This shroud is a UV shield for the sensor. The shroud also acts to protect the sensor from heavy snow buildup. Reference figure 1.

Temperature Sensor Housing (Conceptual Design)

Figure 2

The second component is a louver design housing to protect the temperature sensor from direct and reflective UV rays. This housing has been created to maintain a real-time accurate temperature. This component is separate from the shroud that covers the HRXL-MaxSonar-WRS. Reference figure 2.

Fan Housing (Conceptual Design)

Figure 3

The third component is a fan housing which is able to hold either an AC or DC cooling fan under the temperature housing. This has been created for maximum airflow to the temperature sensor housing. The fan housing helps to ensure the temperature sensor is the same temperature as the surrounding environment. Reference figure 3.

Full Mounting

When the sensor is operating on a mast that is 5 meters high (or higher) the sensor should be mounted at least 100cm away from the mast. For a mast that is 2.5 meters high (or lower), the sensor should be at least 75cm away from the mast. (This corresponds to a mounting clearance angle of 11.3 degrees).

In this configuration, it is recommended that the temperature sensor housing is mounted on the mast.

Figure 4 below shows a rendering of the ultrasonic snow depth sensor when operating on a mast with a height of 5 meters.

Products Related to the Article