System and method for temporary pause of public service alerts

By introducing the pause mode function in the public service system, technicians allow temporary shutdown of sensor alarms, solving the problem of unnecessary resource allocation caused by unexpected alarms, achieving smooth progress of work and stability of public services.

CN119487461APending Publication Date: 2025-02-18ACLARA TECHNOLOGIES LLC
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202380051340.4
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2022-06-06
Filing Date
2023-05-02
Publication Date
2025-02-18

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

During repairs or installation of certain components, connected public service sensors may generate unexpected alarms, resulting in the dispatch of unnecessary technicians and emergency response personnel.

Method used

A system and method are designed to allow technicians to temporarily suspend alarm operations of connected sensors within public service systems. Receive the pause mode command through the electronic processor, start the pause mode timer, and resume normal operation mode when the timer expires or the cancel command is received.

Benefits of technology

This method allows technicians to avoid unnecessary alarm dispatch when performing their work, ensuring smooth work without interfering with the public service system.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The public service sensor module includes one or more sensors and an electronic processor. The electronic processor is configured to receive a pause mode command and initiate a pause mode timer at a first predefined timer value in response to receiving the pause mode command. The electronic processor is further configured to change an operating mode of the public service sensor module to a pause mode, where operation in the pause mode causes the sensor module not to generate an alert when the parameter sensed by the sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold. The electronic processor is further configured to transmit a signal to the public service system indicating that the operating mode has changed to the pause mode and determine whether the pause mode timer has expired. In response to determining that the pause mode timer has expired, the electronic processor changes the mode of operation to normal operation.
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Description

[0001] Related Applications

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 63 / 337,393, filed May 2, 2022, and 63 / 349,529, filed June 6, 2022, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Technical Field

[0003] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to controlling a public service sensing system during various operations, and more particularly, to suspending an alarm function of a particular sensor in response to input provided by a user, such as an installer or maintenance professional. Background Art

[0004] Connected or smart public service meters and / or sensors are becoming increasingly common in public service systems, such as gas, electricity, water, etc. These connected sensors allow data to be provided directly to a central public service system for processing, billing, maintenance, etc. In some instances, alarms can be provided directly to the public service system, allowing the public service system to dispatch maintenance and / or emergency responders (e.g., firefighters, EMTs, police) based on the type of alarm received. However, during maintenance or installation of certain components, unexpected alarms may be generated. For example, during gas meter installation, a connected methane sensor may detect enough methane to generate an alarm, which is then communicated to the public service system, which may result in technicians and or emergency responders being dispatched. Summary of the invention

[0005] The systems and methods described herein provide technicians or other public service workers with the ability to temporarily suspend alarm operations for connected sensors within a public service system. This can allow technicians to perform their required work without worrying about generating unnecessary alarms that may cause other technicians and / or emergency responders to be dispatched.

[0006] In one embodiment, the public service sensor module includes one or more sensors and an electronic processor. The electronic processor is configured to receive a pause mode command and initiate a pause mode timer with a first predefined timer value in response to receiving the pause mode command. The electronic processor is further configured to change the operation mode of the public service sensor module to a pause mode, wherein operation in the pause mode causes the sensor module to not generate an alarm when a parameter sensed by the sensor exceeds a predetermined threshold. The electronic processor is also configured to transmit a signal to the public service system indicating that the operation mode has been changed to the pause mode and determine whether the pause mode timer has expired. In response to determining that the pause mode timer has expired, the electronic processor changes the operation mode to normal operation.

[0007] In one aspect, the pause mode command is received from a user communication device.

[0008] In another aspect, the pause mode command is received via a user interface of the sensor module.

[0009] In another aspect, the electronic processor is further configured to receive a pause mode cancel command and to change the operating mode to a normal operating mode in response to receiving the pause mode cancel command.

[0010] In another aspect, the electronic processor is further configured to receive a timer modification command, wherein the timer modification command includes a second predefined timer value.

[0011] In another aspect, the electronic processor is further configured to adjust the pause mode timer to a second predefined timer value in response to receiving the timer modification command.

[0012] In another aspect, the one or more sensors include a methane detection sensor.

[0013] In another embodiment, a method for changing an operating mode of a sensor module includes: receiving a pause mode command at the sensor module and initiating a pause mode timer with a first predefined timer value in response to receiving the pause mode command. The method further includes changing the operating mode to a pause mode, wherein operation in the pause mode causes the sensor module to not generate an alarm when a parameter sensed by one or more sensors of the sensor module exceeds a predetermined threshold. The method also includes transmitting a signal to a public service system indicating that the operating mode has been changed to the pause mode. The method also includes determining whether the pause mode timer has expired and changing the operating mode to a normal operating mode in response to determining that the pause mode timer has expired.

[0014] In one aspect, the pause mode command is received from an external communication device.

[0015] In another aspect, the pause mode command is received via a user interface of the sensor module.

[0016] In another aspect, the method further includes receiving a suspend mode cancel command and changing the operation mode to a normal operation mode in response to receiving the suspend mode cancel command.

[0017] In another aspect, the method further includes receiving a timer modification command including a second predefined timer value.

[0018] In another aspect, the method further includes adjusting the pause mode timer to a second predefined timer value in response to receiving the timer modification command.

[0019] In another aspect, the one or more sensors include a methane detection sensor.

[0020] In another embodiment, a public service monitoring system includes at least one sensor module having one or more sensors for sensing aspects of a public service system. At least one sensor module is configured to generate an alarm when a parameter sensed by one or more sensors exceeds a predetermined threshold. The system also includes a hub device configured to receive data from at least one sensor module. The hub device includes an electronic processor. The electronic processor is configured to receive a pause mode command and initiate a pause mode timer with a first predefined timer value in response to receiving the pause mode command. The electronic processor is also configured to change the operation mode of the public service sensor module to a pause mode, wherein the operation in the pause mode causes the hub device not to transmit an alarm received from at least one sensor module when a parameter sensed by at least one sensor module exceeds a predetermined threshold. The electronic processor is also configured to transmit a signal indicating that the operation mode has been changed to the pause mode to the public service system. The electronic processor is also configured to determine whether the pause mode timer has expired and determine whether a pause mode cancel command has been received. In response to determining that the pause mode timer has expired or receiving one of the pause mode cancel commands, the electronic processor changes the operation mode to normal operation.

[0021] In one aspect, the pause mode command is received from an external communication device.

[0022] In another aspect, the suspend mode command is received via a user interface of the hub device.

[0023] In another aspect, the electronic processor of the hub device is further configured to receive a timer modification command, wherein the timer modification command includes a second predefined timer value.

[0024] In another aspect, the electronic processor is further configured to adjust the pause mode timer to a second predefined timer value in response to receiving the timer modification command.

[0025] In another aspect, the electronic processor is further configured to, while operating in the pause mode, transmit an alarm in response to a parameter sensed by the at least one sensor module exceeding a pause mode alarm threshold, wherein the pause mode alarm threshold is greater than a predetermined threshold. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the individual views, together with the following detailed description, are incorporated into and form a part of the specification and serve to further illustrate embodiments of the concepts including the claims and to explain the various principles and advantages of these embodiments.

[0027] Figure 1is a diagram of a common public service system according to some embodiments.

[0028] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a common services sensor module according to some embodiments.

[0029] Figure 3 is a block diagram of a communication device according to some embodiments.

[0030] Figure 4 is a diagram showing a method for controlling the Figure 2 Flowchart of the process of the Common Services Sensor Module mode.

[0031] Figure 5 is a diagram showing a method for controlling the Figure 2 Flow chart of additional processes of the public service sensor module mode.

[0032] Figure 6 It is a block diagram of an alternative general public service system.

[0033] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 6 A block diagram of an example hub device.

[0034] Figure 8 is a flow chart illustrating a process for suspend mode operation of a hub device.

[0035] Fig. 9 is a flow chart illustrating a process for modifying the suspend mode time of a hub device.

[0036] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. For example, the sizes of some elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help improve the understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0037] Apparatus and method components are represented where appropriate by conventional symbols in the drawings, and only those specific details relevant to an understanding of the embodiments of the disclosure are shown so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Before any embodiments of the present disclosure are explained in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and component arrangements set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and can be practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0039] One or more embodiments are described and illustrated in the following description and accompanying drawings. These embodiments are not limited to the specific details provided herein and may be modified in various ways. In addition, there may be other embodiments not described herein. In addition, the functions described herein as being performed by one component may be performed by multiple components in a distributed manner. Similarly, the functions performed by multiple components may be merged and performed by a single component. Similarly, the components described as performing specific functions may also perform additional functions not described herein. For example, a device or structure "configured" in a certain way is configured at least in that way but may also be configured in an unlisted manner. In addition, some embodiments described herein may include one or more electronic processors configured to perform the described functions by executing instructions stored in a non-transitory, computer-readable medium. Similarly, the embodiments described herein may be implemented as a non-transitory, computer-readable medium storing instructions that may be executed by one or more electronic processors to perform the described functions. As used herein, "non-transitory computer-readable media" includes all computer-readable media but does not include temporary, propagating signals. Therefore, the non-transitory computer readable medium may include, for example, a hard disk, a CD-ROM, an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), a register memory, a processor cache, or any combination thereof.

[0040] In addition, the wording and terminology used herein are for the purpose of description and should not be considered as limiting. For example, the use of "including", "containing", "comprising", "having" and its variants herein is meant to cover the items listed hereafter and their equivalents and additional items. The terms "connected" and "coupled" are widely used and cover direct and indirect connections and couplings. In addition, "connected" and "coupled" are not limited to physical or mechanical connections or couplings and can include electrical connections or couplings, whether direct or indirect. In addition, electronic communications and notifications can be performed using wired connections, wireless connections or their combinations and can be directly transmitted or transmitted through various types of networks, communication channels and connections. Moreover, relational terms such as first and second, top and bottom and the like can be used herein only to distinguish one entity or action from another entity or action, without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions.

[0041] According to some embodiments, Figure 1A general public service system 100 is shown. System 100 may include a facility 102 having one or more connected public service sensor modules, such as sensor module 104. Facility 102 may include various types of facilities, such as commercial, residential, industrial, and the like. Although facility 102 is shown with only a single sensor module 104, it is understood that different facilities may have multiple sensor modules of various types. Examples of sensor module 104 may include a methane sensor module, a moisture sensor module, a temperature sensor module, an arc detection module, a gas concentration sensor module, a water level sensor module, a water pressure sensor, a gas pressure sensor, and / or other sensor modules as required for a given application.

[0042] The sensor module 104 as described above can be configured to sense one or more parameters associated with a public service system, such as gas (e.g., methane), moisture, temperature, current, voltage, arc, water level or other liquid level, gas pressure and / or other parameters associated with a given public service system. For the purposes of this application, the sensor module 104 will generally be discussed with respect to a methane gas sensor. However, it will be appreciated that other sensor types may be used in place of or in addition to the methane gas sensor. The sensor module 104 may be configured to communicate with a public service system 106. The public service system 106 may be or include a server or a cloud-based system that allows the public service to monitor and / or control various aspects of the associated public service network. The public service system 106 may further include an intermediate device, such as a communication hub and a data collection unit ("DCU"), which may act as an intermediary to facilitate communication between the sensor module 104 and the public service system 106, and in particular communication between endpoints of a public service system such as a server or a cloud-based server system. As will be described in more detail below, the sensor module 104 may communicate with the public service via a wireless communication protocol.

[0043] The sensor module 104 may further communicate with a communication device 108 associated with a technician 110. The communication device 108 may be configured to provide one or more instructions or commands to the sensor module 104, as will be described in more detail below. The technician 110 may use the communication device 108 to communicate with the sensor module 104 to read sensor values, update software / firmware, or provide various instructions to the sensor module 104 as required for a given application (such as maintenance work, installation of equipment, etc.). As will be described in more detail below, the communication device 108 may communicate with the sensor module 104 using various communication protocols. Although not shown, it is contemplated that in some embodiments, the communication device 108 may be further configured to communicate with the public service system 106. In other embodiments, the technician 110 may communicate directly with the sensor module 104 via a user interface of the sensor module, as will be described in more detail below.

[0044] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a sensor module 200 according to some embodiments. The sensor module 200 may be similar to the sensor module 200 described above. Figure 1 The sensor modules 104 are described herein and should be understood to be interchangeable. Each sensor module 200 may include a housing (not shown) that is sealed relative to the surrounding environment. Such housings may be made of any suitable material, including materials for components used in external locations, such as external public service systems (meters, power lines, substations, etc.).

[0045] The sensor module 200 may include one or more sensors 202. The sensor 202 may include a gas detection sensor, a gas concentration sensor, a pressure sensor, a voltage sensor, a current sensor, a temperature sensor, a light sensor, or other sensors required for a given application. The sensor module 200 may further include a user interface 204. The user interface 204 may include one or more inputs to allow a user (such as a technician) to control, modify, or otherwise provide instructions to the sensor module 200, as described in more detail below. In some examples, the user interface 204 may further include a display to provide a visual indication of one or more parameters of the sensor module 200, such as communication status, sensor readings, configuration data, and / or other information suitable for a given application. In some embodiments, the display may be used as both an input device and an output device, such as a case where the display is a touch screen device. The sensor module 200 may further include a position sensor 206 (e.g., GPS, Glonass). The position sensor 206 may provide the position of the sensor module 200. In some examples, the display may simply include one or more indicators (e.g., LEDs) to provide output to the user.

[0046] like Figure 2 As shown, the sensor module 200 further includes an electronic processor 208, a memory 210, a power supply 212, and a communication interface 216. The sensor 202 and the position sensor 206 are configured to provide one or more sensed values ​​to the electronic processor 208. The user interface 204 can provide input to the electronic processor 208 and receive output from the electronic processor 208.

[0047] The memory 210 may include a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), other non-transitory computer-readable media, or a combination thereof. The electronic processor 208 is configured to communicate with the memory 210 to store data and retrieve stored data. The electronic processor 208 is configured to receive instructions and data from the memory 210 and execute various instructions, processes, applications, or the like, among other things. In particular, the electronic processor 208 executes instructions stored in the memory 210 to perform one or more of the processes described herein.

[0048] In one embodiment, the power supply 212 is configured to provide power to the various components of the sensor module 200. In some embodiments, the sensor module 200 receives external power and the power supply 212 converts and distributes the external power to the various components of the sensor module 200. In some examples, the power supply 212 includes a battery. In some instances, the battery can be the only power source, or can be configured to provide backup power when the external power source is not available.

[0049] The communication interface 216 (e.g., a transceiver) allows communication between the electronic processor 208 and one or more external devices (such as one or more external sensors 220). The external sensor 220 can be a remote sensor configured to operate with the sensor module 200, such as a gas sensor, a pressure sensor, a moisture sensor, a temperature sensor, or other sensors as described herein. The external sensor 220 can be used when the sensor module 200 cannot be easily placed in a desired location close to the sensor, or when the location of the sensor prevents the sensor module 200 from being able to communicate with a public service network, or when the location of the sensor is within another component (such as a pipeline). In addition, the communication interface 216 can be configured to communicate with the sensor via a wired connection, and in some examples, power can be provided to the external sensor 220, such as power from the power supply 212.

[0050] The communication interface 216 can further provide communication with the public service system 106 ( Figure 1 ) other external devices. The communication interface 216 may be further configured to communicate directly with one or more additional devices, such as the communication device 108 ( Figure 1). In some embodiments, the communication interface 216 may include separate transmitting and receiving components. In some embodiments, the communication interface 216 is a wireless transceiver that encodes information received from the electronic processor 208 into a carrier wireless signal and transmits the encoded wireless signal to one or more external devices and / or communication networks, as described above. The communication interface 216 also decodes information received from one or more external devices and provides the decoded information to the electronic processor 208.

[0051] The communication interface may communicate with the device and / or network via various communication protocols, such as using a power line network or a wireless network (e.g., The communication interface 216 may communicate via a combination of cellular, BLUETOOTH, and powerline networks, thereby allowing the communication interface 216 to communicate with multiple devices, such as the communication network 222, external sensors 220, and / or the communication device 108 ( Figure 1 ). However, other combinations of communication protocols may be applicable when appropriate for a given application. In some examples, the sensor module 200 may include multiple communication interfaces 216. For example, one communication interface 216 may be configured to communicate with a local device (such as an external sensor and / or a user communication device 300 ( Figure 3 )) communication, and the second communication interface 216 can be configured to communicate with the communication network 222.

[0052] Now turn to Figure 3 , a block diagram of an example communication device 300 according to some embodiments is shown. The communication device 300 may be similar to the communication device 108 ( Figure 1) and should be understood herein to be interchangeable. The communication device 300 may include an electronic processor 302, a user interface 304, a memory 306, and a communication interface 308. The memory 306 may include a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), other non-transitory computer-readable media, or a combination thereof. The electronic processor 302 is configured to communicate with the memory 306 to store data and retrieve stored data. The electronic processor 302 may be further configured to receive instructions and data from the memory 306 and execute various instructions, processes, applications, etc., among others. In particular, the electronic processor 302 executes instructions stored in the memory 306 to perform one or more of the processes described herein.

[0053] The communication interface 308 (eg, a transceiver) allows electronic processor 302 to communicate with one or more external devices (such as one or more sensor modules 200 ( Figure 2 Although not shown, in some examples, the communication interface 308 can communicate with a communication network (such as the communication network 222 ( Figure 2 )) to allow communication with public service systems (such as public service system 106 ( Figure 1 The communication interface 308 can communicate with the sensor module 200 ( Figure 2 ) communication. The communication interface 308 can also communicate with devices and / or networks via various communication protocols, such as using a power line network or a wireless network (e.g., The communication interface 308 may be a wireless communication protocol such as Wi-Fi, Wi-Max, cellular (3G, 4G, 5G, LTE), RF, LoRa, Zigbee, and / or other wireless communication protocols applicable to a given system or installation). In one embodiment, the communication interface 308 may use a proprietary wireless communication protocol, such as Aclara RF from Aclara Technologies. Additionally, in one embodiment, the communication interface 308 may communicate using a combination of communication protocols such as those described above. In some examples, the communication device may include multiple communication interfaces 308. For example, a first communication interface 308 may be configured to communicate with a local device such as the sensor module 200 and a second communication interface 308 may be configured to communicate with a network such as the communication network 222 described above.

[0054] The user interface 304 may allow a user (such as a technician) to receive output from or provide input to the communication device 300. In one example, the communication device 300 may receive an output from the sensor module 200 ( Figure 2) receives data and displays the data via the user interface 304. In a further example, the user may input various commands (e.g., enter a pause mode), or data (e.g., configuration data, communication data, calibration data, firmware updates, etc.) via the user interface 304, which may then be communicated to the sensor module 200 ( Figure 2 ). Sensor module 200( Figure 2 ) can then provide data (such as confirmation signals, parameter changes, etc.) back to the communication device 300, which can be viewed at the user interface 304. In some examples, the user interface 304 can be a touch screen device, such as a capacitive touch screen, an inductive touch screen, a resistive touch screen, or other touch screen types required for a given application. Thus, the touch screen can allow user input, as well as visualization of output. In other embodiments, the user interface 304 can include only a display screen, and then include one or more inputs (e.g., a keyboard, various buttons, soft keys, etc.) to allow the user to provide input to the communication device 300.

[0055] Now turn to Figure 4 , showing a sensor module (such as sensor module 200 ( Figure 2 )) of the pause mode operation process 400. Thus, the process 400 is composed of the sensor module 200 ( Figure 2 ) unless otherwise specified. For example, process 400 may be stored in memory 210 ( Figure 2 ) and by the electronic processor 208 ( Figure 2 )implement.

[0056] At process block 402, the sensor module 200 operates in a normal operating mode. The normal operating mode may be a standard operating mode for a sensor module. In one example, during the normal operating mode, the sensor module 200 monitors one or more parameters of the facility public service system via the sensor 202 and / or the external sensor 220. The sensor module 200 may be further configured to generate an alarm in response to one or more of the sensed parameters exceeding a predetermined value when in the normal operating mode. For example, the sensor module 200 may generate an alarm in response to a detected methane level exceeding a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the generated alarm may be transmitted to other devices, such as the public service system 106 ( Figure 1 ).

[0057] At process block 404, the sensor module 200 determines whether a pause mode command has been received. The pause mode command may be received by a communication device such as the communication device 300 ( Figure 3)) is issued. In one embodiment, the user instructs the communication device 300 to transmit a pause mode command to the sensor module 200, such as via the user interface 304. In other examples, the user may provide a pause mode command directly to the sensor module 200 via the user interface 204 of the sensor module 200, such as by actuating or operating one or more inputs of the user interface 204. In some examples, the user causes the pause mode command to be generated when they are about to do work (such as meter installation, maintenance, etc.), which may cause the sensor module to generate an alarm unnecessarily. For example, when a new gas meter is installed, some methane may escape during this process, which may cause an alarm to be generated. As noted above, the alarm will be received by the public service system 106, which will then dispatch additional personnel such as maintenance technicians and / or emergency responders. This situation is not desirable when performing the required work, and therefore the pause mode command is transmitted by the user to temporarily stop any alarms being generated by the sensor module 200, as will be described in more detail below.

[0058] In response to determining that a pause mode command has not been received, the sensor module 200 continues to operate in a normal operating mode at process block 402. In response to determining that a pause mode command has been received, the sensor module 200 initiates a pause mode timer at process block 406. The pause mode timer represents the amount of time that the sensor module 200 will remain in pause mode. In some examples, the pause mode timer is set to a predefined default value. In some examples, the predefined default value is 60 minutes. However, predefined default values ​​of more than 60 minutes or less than 60 minutes are also contemplated as required by a given application. In other examples, the user may be able to set the pause mode time, such as via the communication device 300 ( Figure 3 ). For example, for a given job, a user may set the pause timer to a value sufficient to complete the desired job. In some instances, a user may not be able to set the pause mode timer to a value that exceeds a maximum value. For example, a user may not be able to set the pause mode timer to a value greater than 240 minutes. However, maximum values ​​greater than 240 minutes or less than 240 minutes are also contemplated when appropriate for a given application. In some instances, the pause timer may be set by the communication device 300( Figure 2 ) is automatically set based on the time associated with the required work order being performed.

[0059] At process block 408, the sensor module 200 enters the pause mode and transmits the mode change status to the public service system 106 ( Figure 1In one embodiment, the mode change state includes information such as the current mode (e.g., pause mode), the pause mode timer value, the time at which the mode was changed, and / or other data required for a given application. The sensor module 200 then operates in the pause mode at process block 410. As noted above, when operating in the pause mode, the sensor module 200 does not generate or transmit alarms to the public service system 106 ( Figure 1 ). In some examples, operating in pause mode may still allow some alarms to be generated, but a higher threshold may be required to generate an alarm. For example, in the case where the sensor module 200 is monitoring methane (or other toxic gases), an alarm may still be generated if the sensed gas concentration exceeds an upper limit (which is higher than the normal alarm threshold). In some specific examples, a typical methane concentration alarm threshold is 10% LEL (lower explosive limit), which can generate an initial alarm to dispatch first responders and maintenance personnel. At 20% LEL, a secondary alarm can be generated indicating that the building or structure should be evacuated. Therefore, in the above example, the 10% LEL alarm can be disabled when the sensor module 200 is operating in pause mode, but when the 20% LEL alarm threshold is reached, the sensor module 200 can override the pause mode to transmit the alarm to the public service system 106.

[0060] In some embodiments, the mode change to operation in Pause Mode affects only alarms that would normally result in personnel (such as maintenance and / or first responders) being dispatched. During operation in Pause Mode, lower priority alarms (such as low battery, over temperature, communication failure, etc.) may not be disabled.

[0061] At process block 412, the sensor module 200 determines whether a pause mode cancel command has been received. Similar to the pause mode command, the user can cause the communication device 300 to transmit the pause mode cancel command to the sensor module, or can transmit the pause mode cancel command to the sensor module via the user interface 204 ( Figure 2 ) directly inputs the pause mode cancel command. For example, the user may cause the pause mode cancel command to be received by the sensor module 200 in response to completing the desired work. In response to determining that the pause mode cancel command is received, the sensor module 200 resumes normal operation and transmits the mode state to the public service system 106 at process block 414 ( Figure 1 This allows the public service system 106 ( Figure 1 )Registers the sensor module 200 to return to normal operation.

[0062] In response to determining that the pause mode cancel command has not been received at process block 412, the sensor module 200 determines whether the pause mode timer has expired at process block 414. In response to determining that the pause mode timer has not expired, the sensor module 200 continues to operate in the pause mode at process block 410. In response to determining that the pause mode timer has expired, the sensor module 200 resumes normal operation at process block 416 and transmits the mode state to the common service, as described above.

[0063] Figure 5 is a flow chart illustrating a process 500 for modifying a pause mode timer of a sensor module 200 according to some embodiments. Similar to the process 400 ( Figure 4 ), process 500 is performed by sensor module 200 ( Figure 2 ) unless otherwise specified. For example, process 500 may be stored in memory 210 ( Figure 2 ) and by the electronic processor 208 ( Figure 2 )implement.

[0064] At process block 502, the sensor module 200 operates in a normal operating mode. The normal operating mode may be a standard operating mode for a sensor module. In one example, during the normal operating mode, the sensor module 200 monitors one or more parameters of the facility public service system via the sensor 202 and / or the external sensor 220. The sensor module 200 may be further configured to generate an alarm in response to one or more of the sensed parameters exceeding a predetermined value. For example, the sensor module 200 may generate an alarm in response to a detected methane level exceeding a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the generated alarm may be transmitted to a communication interface 216, such as to a public service system 106 ( Figure 1 ) other equipment.

[0065] At process block 504, the sensor module 200 determines whether a pause mode command has been received. The pause mode command may be received by a communication device such as the communication device 300 ( Figure 3 In one embodiment, the user instructs the communication device 300 to transmit a pause mode command to the sensor module 200, such as via the user interface 304. In other examples, the user may provide the pause mode command directly to the sensor module 200 via the user interface 204 of the sensor module 200, such as by actuating or operating one or more inputs of the user interface 204.

[0066] In response to determining that the pause mode command has not been received, the sensor module 200 continues to operate in the normal operating mode at process block 502. In response to determining that the pause mode command has been received, the sensor module 200 initiates a pause mode timer at process block 506. The pause mode timer represents the amount of time that the sensor module 200 will remain in pause mode. In some examples, the pause mode timer is set to a predefined default value. In some examples, the predefined default value is 60 minutes. However, predefined default values ​​of more than 60 minutes or less than 60 minutes are also contemplated as required by a given application. In other examples, the user may be able to set the pause mode time, such as via the communication device 300 ( Figure 3 ). For example, for a given job, a user may set the pause timer to a value sufficient to complete the desired job. In some instances, a user may not be able to set the pause mode timer to a value that exceeds a maximum value. For example, a user may not be able to set the pause mode timer to a value greater than 240 minutes. However, maximum values ​​greater than 240 minutes or less than 240 minutes are also contemplated when appropriate for a given application. In some instances, the pause timer may be set by the communication device 300( Figure 2 ) is automatically set based on the time associated with the required work order being performed.

[0067] At process block 508, the sensor module 200 enters the pause mode and transmits the mode change status to the public service system 106 ( Figure 1 In one embodiment, the mode change state includes information such as the current mode (e.g., pause mode), the pause mode timer value, the time at which the mode was changed, and / or other data required for a given application. The sensor module 200 then operates in the pause mode at process block 510. As noted above, when operating in the pause mode, the sensor module 200 does not generate or transmit alarms to the public service system 106 ( Figure 1 ). In some examples, operating in pause mode may still allow some alarms to be generated, but a higher threshold may be required to generate an alarm. For example, in the case of sensor module 200 monitoring methane (or other toxic gases), an alarm may still be generated if the sensed gas concentration exceeds an upper limit (which is higher than the normal alarm threshold).

[0068] At process block 512, the sensor module 200 determines whether the pause mode timer has expired. In response to determining that the pause mode timer has expired, the sensor module 200 resumes normal operation at process block 514 and transmits the mode status to the common service, as described above.

[0069] In response to determining that the pause mode timer has not expired, the sensor module 200 determines whether a modified pause timer value has been received at process block 516. Similar to the pause mode command, the modified timer value can be received at the sensor module 200 from the communication device 300 ( Figure 3 ) is received. For example, the user may use the user interface 304 of the communication device 300 to input the modified timer value ( Figure 3 ), which may then cause the communication device to transmit the modified timer value to the sensor module 200. In other examples, the user may input the modified pause timer value directly into the sensor module 200, such as via the user interface 204 ( Figure 2 ). The user can modify the pause timer value to be greater than the initial value or less than the initial value. For example, the user can determine that the job will take additional time and extend the pause timer value. In other examples, the user can determine that the job will not take as long as expected and will reduce the pause timer value. For example, if the user completes the job before the pause timer expires, the user can modify the pause timer value, such as via user interface 204 ( Figure 2 ) sends a command to the sensor module 200 to set the pause timer value to 0. In addition, the pause timer can also have a maximum value that the user is not allowed to exceed. In some embodiments, the maximum value can be a value of 2 times the initial pause mode timer value. However, other maximum values ​​are also contemplated.

[0070] In response to determining that the modified timer value has not been received, the sensor module 200 continues to operate in the pause mode at process block 510. In response to determining that the modified timer value has been received, the sensor module 200 modifies the timer value at process block 518 and transmits the modified timer value to the public service system ( Figure 1 ). After modifying the timer value, the sensor module 200 operates in the pause mode using the modified timer value at process block 510 and continues to operate as described above.

[0071] Figure 6An alternative example of a general public service system 600 according to some embodiments is shown. System 600 may include a facility 602 having one or more connected public service sensor modules 604. Sensor module 604 may be identical to sensor module 104 / 200 described above, and should be understood to be used interchangeably herein. The facility further includes one or more hub devices 606. Hub device 606 may be configured to communicate with sensor module 604. Facility 602 may include various types of facilities, such as commercial, residential, industrial, and the like. Although facility 602 is shown as having only three sensor modules 604, it is understood that different facilities may have multiple sensor modules of various types. Example sensor module 604 may include methane sensor module, moisture sensor module, temperature sensor module, arc detection module, gas concentration sensor module, water level sensor module, water pressure sensor, gas pressure sensor, and / or other sensor modules required for a given application.

[0072] The sensor module 604 as described above can be configured to sense one or more parameters associated with a public service system, such as gas (e.g., methane), moisture, temperature, current, voltage, arc, water level or other liquid level, gas pressure and / or other parameters associated with a given public service system. For the purpose of this application, the sensor module 604 will generally be discussed with respect to a methane gas sensor. However, it is understood that other sensor types can be used to replace or supplement the methane gas sensor. The sensor module 604 can be configured to communicate with a public service system 607. The public service system 607 can be or include a server or a cloud-based system that allows the public service to monitor and / or control various aspects of the associated public service network. The public service system 607 can further include intermediate devices, such as a communication hub and a data collection unit ("DCU"), which can act as an intermediary to facilitate communication between the sensor module 604 and the public service system 607, and in particular, communication between endpoints of a public service system such as a server or a cloud-based server system.

[0073] The sensor modules 604 may further communicate with a hub device 606. The hub device 606 is configured to facilitate communication between the sensor modules 604 and other devices, such as a public service system 607 and or a communication device 608 associated with a technician 610. For example, an alarm generated by any one of the sensor modules 604 may be communicated to the public service system 607 via the hub device. Additionally, the hub device 606 may receive instructions from the communication device 608, as will be described in more detail below. The communication device 608 may be similar to the communication device 300 described above, and should be understood to be used interchangeably herein.

[0074] The communication device 608 may be configured to provide one or more instructions or commands to the hub device 606, as will be described in more detail below. The technician 610 may use the communication device 608 to communicate with the hub device 606 to obtain information from the sensor module 604 to read sensor values, update software / firmware, or provide various instructions to the sensor module 604 as required for a given application (such as maintenance work, installation of equipment, etc.). As will be described in more detail below, the communication device 608 may communicate with the hub device 606 using various communication protocols. In turn, the hub device 606 may communicate with the sensor module 604 using one or more wireless communication protocols as described herein. Although not shown, it is contemplated that in some embodiments, the communication device 608 may be further configured to communicate with the public service system 607. In other embodiments, the technician 610 may communicate directly with the sensor module 604 via a user interface of the sensor module 604, as will be described in more detail below.

[0075] Now turn to Figure 7 , a block diagram of an example hub device 700 according to some embodiments is shown. The hub device 700 may be similar to the hub device 606 ( Figure 6 ) and should be understood herein to be interchangeable. The hub device 700 may include an electronic processor 702, a user interface 704, a memory 706, and a communication interface 708. The memory 706 may include a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), other non-temporary computer-readable media, or a combination thereof. The electronic processor 702 is configured to communicate with the memory 706 to store data and retrieve stored data. The electronic processor 702 may further be configured to receive instructions and data from the memory 706 and execute various instructions, processes, applications, etc., among others. In particular, the electronic processor 702 executes instructions stored in the memory 706 to perform one or more of the processes described herein.

[0076] The communication interface 708 (eg, a transceiver) allows electronic processor 702 to communicate with one or more external devices (such as one or more sensor modules 200 ( Figure 2 ) and / or communication device 300( Figure 3 )). Although Figure 7 The sensor modules and communication devices described generally refer to Figure 2 The sensor module 200 and Figure 3 communication device 300, but it is understood that these devices can be used with Figure 6The sensor module 604 and the communication device 608 are used interchangeably. Although not shown, in some examples, the communication interface 708 can be connected to a communication network (such as the communication network 222 ( Figure 2 )) to allow communication with public service systems (such as public service system 106 ( Figure 1 ) and / or public service system 607( Figure 6 )) communication. The communication interface 708 can communicate via the communication interface 216 ( Figure 2 ) communicates with the sensor module 200. The communication interface 708 can also communicate with devices and / or networks via various communication protocols, such as using a power line network or a wireless network (e.g., In one embodiment, the communication interface 708 may use a proprietary wireless communication protocol, such as Aclara RF from Aclara Technologies. Additionally, in one embodiment, the communication interface 708 may communicate using a combination of communication protocols, such as those described above. In some examples, the communication device may include multiple communication interfaces 708. For example, the first communication interface 708 may be configured to communicate with a local device, such as the sensor module 200 ( Figure 2 ) and / or communication device 300( Figure 3 )) communication and the second communication interface 708 can be configured to communicate with a network (such as the communication network 222 described above).

[0077] Now turn to Figure 8 , showing an example of a hub device (such as hub device 700 ( Figure 7 )) of the suspend mode operation of the process 800. Thus, the process 800 is composed of the hub device 700 ( Figure 7 ) unless otherwise specified. For example, process 800 may be stored in memory 706 ( Figure 7 ) and by electronic processor 702 ( Figure 7 )implement.

[0078] At process block 802, the hub device 700 operates in a normal operating mode. The normal operating mode may be a standard operating mode for the hub device 700. In one example, during the normal operating mode, the hub device 700 monitors one or more sensor modules of the utility public service system, such as the sensor module 200 ( Figure 2). The sensor module 200 can be further configured to generate an alarm in response to one or more of the sensed parameters exceeding a predetermined value when in the normal operating mode. For example, the sensor module 200 can generate an alarm in response to the detected methane level exceeding a predetermined threshold. The alarm is transmitted to the hub device 700 for communication to other devices, such as the public service 106.

[0079] At process block 804, the hub device 700 determines whether a pause mode command has been received. The pause mode command may be received by a communication device such as the communication device 300 ( Figure 3 )) is issued. In one embodiment, the user instructs the communication device 300, such as via the user interface 304, to transmit a pause mode command to the hub device 700 for one or more sensor modules 200. In other examples, the user may provide a pause mode command directly to the hub device 700 via the user interface 704 of the hub device 700, such as by actuating or operating one or more inputs of the user interface 704. In some examples, the user causes the pause mode command to be generated when they are about to do work (such as meter installation, maintenance, etc.) that may cause the sensor module 200 to generate an alarm unnecessarily. For example, when a new gas meter is installed, some methane may escape during this process, which may cause an alarm to be generated. As noted above, the alarm may be received by the hub device 700, which in turn communicates the alarm to the public service system 106, which may then dispatch additional personnel such as maintenance technicians and / or emergency responders. This situation is undesirable when performing required work, and therefore a pause mode command is transmitted by the user to temporarily stop any alarms being generated by the hub device 700, as will be described in more detail below.

[0080] In response to determining that the pause mode command has not been received, the hub device 700 continues to operate in the normal operating mode at process block 802. In response to determining that the pause mode command has been received, the hub device 700 initiates a pause mode timer at process block 806. The pause mode timer represents the amount of time that the hub device 700 will remain in pause mode. In some examples, the pause mode timer is set to a predefined default value. In some examples, the predefined default value is 60 minutes. However, predefined default values ​​of more than 60 minutes or less than 60 minutes are also contemplated as required by a given application. In other examples, the user may be able to set the pause mode time, such as via the communication device 300 ( Figure 3). For example, for a given job, a user may set the pause timer to a value sufficient to complete the desired job. In some instances, a user may not be able to set the pause mode timer to a value that exceeds a maximum value. For example, a user may not be able to set the pause mode timer to a value greater than 240 minutes. However, maximum values ​​greater than 240 minutes or less than 240 minutes are also contemplated when appropriate for a given application. In some instances, the pause timer may be set by the communication device 300( Figure 2 ) is automatically set based on the time associated with the required work order being performed.

[0081] At process block 808, the hub device 700 enters the pause mode and transmits the mode change status to the public service system 106 ( Figure 1 In one embodiment, the mode change state includes information such as the current mode (e.g., pause mode), the pause mode timer value, the time at which the mode was changed, and / or other data required for a given application. The hub device 700 then operates in the pause mode at process block 810. As noted above, when operating in the pause mode, the hub device 700 does not transmit alerts received from the sensor module 200 associated with the pause mode to the public service system 106 ( Figure 1 ). In some examples, operating in pause mode may still allow some alarms to be generated, but a higher threshold may be required to generate an alarm. For example, in the case where the hub device 700 monitors methane (or other toxic gases), an alarm may still be generated if the sensed gas concentration exceeds an upper limit (which is higher than the normal alarm threshold). In some specific examples, a typical methane concentration alarm threshold is 10% LEL (lower explosive limit), which can generate an initial alarm to dispatch first responders and maintenance personnel. At 20% LEL, a secondary alarm can be generated indicating that the building or structure should be evacuated. Therefore, in the above example, the 10% LEL alarm can be disabled when the hub device 700 is operating in pause mode, but when the 20% LEL alarm threshold is reached, the hub device 700 can override the pause mode to transmit the alarm to the public service system 106.

[0082] In some embodiments, the mode change to operation in Pause Mode affects only alarms that would normally result in personnel (such as maintenance and / or first responders) being dispatched. During operation in Pause Mode, lower priority alarms (such as low battery, over temperature, communication failure, etc.) may not be disabled.

[0083] At process block 812, the hub device 700 determines whether a pause mode cancel command has been received. Similar to the pause mode command, the user can cause the communication device 300 to transmit the pause mode cancel command to the hub device 700, or can transmit the pause mode cancel command via the user interface 704 ( Figure 7 ) directly inputs the pause mode cancel command. For example, the user may cause the pause mode cancel command to be received by the hub device 700 in response to completing the desired work. In response to determining that the pause mode cancel command is received, the hub device 700 resumes normal operation and transmits the mode state to the public service system 106 at process block 816 ( Figure 1 This allows the public service system 106 ( Figure 1 )Register the hub device 700 and associated sensor modules 200 back to normal operation.

[0084] In response to determining that the pause mode cancel command has not been received at process block 812, the hub device 700 determines whether the pause mode timer has expired at process block 814. In response to determining that the pause mode timer has not expired, the hub device 700 continues to operate in the pause mode at process block 810. In response to determining that the pause mode timer has expired, the hub device 700 resumes normal operation at process block 816 and transmits the mode state to the common service, as described above.

[0085] Fig. 9 800 ( FIG. 801 ) is a flow chart illustrating a process 900 for modifying a pause mode timer of a hub device 700 according to some embodiments. Figure 8 ), process 900 is performed by hub device 700 ( Figure 7 ), unless otherwise indicated. For example, process 900 may be stored in memory 706 ( Figure 7 ) and executed by electronic processor 702 ( Figure 7 ).

[0086] At process block 902, the hub device 700 operates in a normal operating mode. The normal operating mode may be a standard operating mode for a sensor module. In one example, during the normal operating mode, the hub device 700 monitors the sensor module 200 and communicates data from the sensor module 200 to the public service system 106. The sensor module 200 may be configured to generate an alarm in response to one or more of the sensed parameters exceeding a predetermined value, and transmit the alarm to the hub device 700. For example, the sensor module 200 may generate an alarm in response to a detected methane level exceeding a predetermined threshold. In some embodiments, the generated alarm may be transmitted to the hub device 700, such as via the communication interface 216.

[0087] At process block 904, the hub device 700 determines whether a pause mode command has been received. The pause mode command may be received by a communication device such as the communication device 300 ( Figure 3 In one embodiment, the user instructs the communication device 300 to transmit the pause mode command to the hub device 700, such as via the user interface 304. In other examples, the user can provide the pause mode command directly to the hub device 700 via the user interface 704 of the hub device 700, such as by actuating or operating one or more inputs of the user interface 704.

[0088] In response to determining that the pause mode command has not been received, the hub device 700 continues to operate in the normal operating mode at process block 902. In response to determining that the pause mode command has been received, the hub device 700 initiates a pause mode timer at process block 906. The pause mode timer represents the amount of time that the hub device 700 will remain in pause mode. In some examples, the pause mode timer is set to a predefined default value. In some examples, the predefined default value is 60 minutes. However, predefined default values ​​of more than 60 minutes or less than 60 minutes are also contemplated as required by a given application. In other examples, the user may be able to set the pause mode time, such as via the communication device 300 ( Figure 3 ). For example, for a given job, a user may set the pause timer to a value sufficient to complete the desired job. In some instances, a user may not be able to set the pause mode timer to a value that exceeds a maximum value. For example, a user may not be able to set the pause mode timer to a value greater than 240 minutes. However, maximum values ​​greater than 240 minutes or less than 240 minutes are also contemplated when appropriate for a given application. In some instances, the pause timer may be set by the communication device 300( Figure 2 ) is automatically set based on the time associated with the required work order being performed.

[0089] At process block 908, the hub device 700 enters the pause mode and transmits the mode change status to the public service system 106 ( Figure 1 In one embodiment, the mode change state includes information such as the current mode (e.g., pause mode), the pause mode timer value, the time at which the mode was changed, and / or other data required by a given application. The hub device 700 then operates in the pause mode at process block 910. As noted above, when operating in the pause mode, the hub device 700 does not generate or transmit alarms to the public service system 106 ( Figure 1). In some examples, operating in pause mode may still allow some alarms to be generated, but a higher threshold may be required to generate an alarm. For example, in the case where the sensor module 200 monitors methane (or other toxic gases), if the sensed gas concentration exceeds an upper limit (which is higher than the normal alarm threshold), then an alarm may still be transmitted by the hub device 700.

[0090] At process block 912, the hub device 700 determines whether the pause mode timer has expired. In response to determining that the pause mode timer has expired, the hub device 700 resumes normal operation at process block 914 and transmits the mode status to the common service, as described above.

[0091] In response to determining that the pause mode timer has not expired, the hub device 700 determines whether a modified pause timer value has been received at process block 916. Similar to the pause mode command, the modified timer value can be received at the hub device 700 from the communication device 300 ( Figure 3 For example, a user may use the user interface 304 of the communication device 300 to input a modified timer value ( Figure 3 ), which may then cause the communication device 300 to transmit the modified timer value to the hub device 700. In other examples, the user may, for example, communicate via the user interface 704 ( Figure 7 ) directly into the hub device 700. The user can modify the pause timer value to be greater than the initial value or less than the initial value. For example, the user can determine that the job will take additional time and extend the pause timer value. In other examples, the user can determine that the job will not take as long as expected and will reduce the pause timer value. For example, in the event that the user completes the job before the pause timer expires, the user can modify the pause timer value, such as via the user interface 704 ( Figure 7 ) sends a command to hub device 700 to set the pause timer value to 0. In addition, the pause timer can also have a maximum value that the user is not allowed to exceed. In some embodiments, the maximum value can be a value of 2 times the initial pause mode timer value. However, other maximum values ​​are also envisioned.

[0092] In response to determining that the modified timer value has not been received, the hub device 700 continues to operate in the pause mode at process block 910. In response to determining that the modified timer value has been received, the hub device 700 modifies the timer value at process block 918 and transmits the modified timer value to the public service system 106 ( Figure 1 ). After modifying the timer value, the hub device 700 operates in the pause mode using the modified timer value at process block 910 and continues to operate as described above.

[0093] In the foregoing description, specific embodiments have been described. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the following claims. Therefore, the description and drawings should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this teaching.

[0094] Various features and advantages of some embodiments are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A public service sensor module, comprising: one or more sensors; as well as An electronic processor configured to: Receive suspend mode command; in response to receiving the pause mode command, initiating a pause mode timer with a first predefined timer value; changing the operating mode to a pause mode, wherein operation in the pause mode causes the sensor module to not generate an alarm when a parameter sensed by the one or more sensors exceeds a predetermined threshold; transmitting a signal to a public service system indicating that the operating mode has been changed to the pause mode; determining whether the pause mode timer has expired; and In response to determining that the pause mode timer has expired, the operating mode is changed to a normal operating mode.

2. The public service sensor module according to claim 1, wherein: The pause mode command is received from a user communication device.

3. The public service sensor module according to claim 1, wherein: The pause mode command is received via a user interface of the sensor module.

4. The public service sensor module according to claim 1, wherein: The electronic processor is further configured to: receiving a suspend mode cancel command; and In response to receiving the pause mode cancel command, the operation mode is changed to the normal operation mode.

5. The public service sensor module according to claim 1, wherein: The electronic processor is further configured to receive a timer modification command, wherein the timer modification command includes a second predefined timer value.

6. The public service sensor module according to claim 5, wherein: The electronic processor is further configured to adjust the pause mode timer to the second predefined timer value in response to receiving the timer modification command.

7. The public service sensor module according to claim 1, wherein: The one or more sensors include a methane detection sensor.

8. A method for changing an operating mode of a sensor module, comprising: receiving a pause mode command at the sensor module; in response to receiving the pause mode command, initiating a pause mode timer with a first predefined timer value; changing the operating mode to a pause mode, wherein operation in the pause mode causes the sensor module to not generate an alarm when a parameter sensed by one or more sensors of the sensor module exceeds a predetermined threshold; transmitting a signal to a public service system indicating that the operating mode has changed to the pause mode; determining whether the pause mode timer has expired; and In response to determining that the pause mode timer has expired, the operating mode is changed to a normal operating mode.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The pause mode command is received from an external communication device.

10. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The pause mode command is received via a user interface of the sensor module.

11. The method according to claim 8, further comprising: Receive the pause mode cancel command; as well as In response to receiving the pause mode cancel command, the operation mode is changed to the normal operation mode.

12. The method of claim 8, further comprising receiving a timer modification command, wherein: The timer modification command includes a second predefined timer value.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising adjusting the pause mode timer to the second predefined timer value in response to receiving the timer modification command.

14. The method according to claim 8, wherein: The one or more sensors include a methane detection sensor.

15. A public service monitoring system, comprising: at least one sensor module comprising one or more sensors for sensing aspects of the public service system and configured to generate an alarm when a parameter sensed by the one or more sensors exceeds a predetermined threshold; as well as a hub device configured to receive data from the at least one sensor module and comprising an electronic processor configured to: Receive suspend mode command; in response to receiving the pause mode command, initiating a pause mode timer with a first predefined timer value; changing the operating mode to a pause mode, wherein operation in the pause mode causes the hub device to not transmit alarm data received from the at least one sensor module to a public service system when a parameter sensed by the at least one sensor module exceeds a predetermined threshold; transmitting a signal to the public service system indicating that the operating mode has been changed to the pause mode; determining whether the pause mode timer has expired; determining whether a suspend mode cancel command is received; and In response to determining one of: the pause mode timer has expired, or the pause cancel command is received, the operation mode is changed to a normal operation mode.

16. The public service monitoring system according to claim 15, wherein: The pause mode command is received from an external communication device.

17. The public service monitoring system according to claim 15, wherein: The pause mode command is received via a user interface of the hub device.

18. The public service monitoring system according to claim 15, wherein: The electronic processor is further configured to receive a timer modification command, wherein the timer modification command includes a second predefined timer value.

19. The public service monitoring system according to claim 18, wherein: The electronic processor is further configured to adjust the pause mode timer to the second predefined timer value in response to receiving the timer modification command.

20. The public service monitoring system according to claim 15, wherein: The electronic processor is further configured to, while operating in the pause mode, transmit an alarm in response to a parameter sensed by the at least one sensor module exceeding a pause mode alarm threshold, wherein the pause mode alarm threshold is greater than the predetermined threshold.