Modified remote control device

Abstract

Remote control devices can control electrical loads and / or load control devices of a load control system without tapping into electrical wiring. The remote control devices can be mounted above mechanical switches installed in a wallbox. The remote control devices can include a control unit and a faceplate assembly. The faceplate assembly can include a mounting frame, an adapter plate, and a faceplate. The mounting frame can be configured to abut a bezel of the mechanical switch such that the faceplate is spaced apart from the bezel of the mechanical switch to enable the mounting ring to extend through respective openings in the adapter plate and the faceplate.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 711,073, filed July 27, 2018, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0003] During the installation of a typical load control system, standard mechanical switches (such as traditional toggle switches or decorative rocker switches) may be replaced by more advanced load controllers (such as dimmer switches) that control the flow of electricity from alternating current (AC) power to one or more electrical loads. Such an installation process typically requires disconnecting the existing mechanical switches from the electrical wiring and removing them from their mounting box, then connecting the load controller to the electrical wiring and installing it in the box. The average consumer may be reluctant to perform the necessary electrical wiring for such an installation. Therefore, this process is usually performed by an electrical contractor or other skilled installer. However, hiring an electrical contractor may be prohibitively expensive for the average consumer.

[0004] Controllable light sources, such as controllable screw-in light-emitting diode (LED) lamps, offer a simpler solution for providing advanced lighting control. For example, one can simply unscrew an older incandescent bulb from its socket and then screw the controllable light source into it. The controllable light source can be controlled by a remote control device. However, the socket where the controllable light source is installed can be controlled by an existing wall-mounted light switch. When the wall-mounted light switch is operated to the off position, power to the controllable light source can be cut off, causing the light source to potentially stop responding to commands transmitted from the remote control device. Therefore, it is desirable to prevent such operation of the wall-mounted light switch to ensure a continuous and uninterrupted power delivery to the controllable light source. Summary of the Invention

[0005] As described herein, exemplary remote control devices can provide a simple retrofit solution for existing switch control systems. For example, in existing switch control systems, the implementation of the remote control device can achieve energy savings and / or advanced control features, such as without any electrical rewiring and / or without replacing any existing mechanical switches.

[0006] A remote control device can be configured to control one or more electrical loads, such as lighting loads and / or load control devices. The remote control device can be configured to be mounted above a corresponding actuator of an existing mechanical switch, which, for example, can control whether power is delivered to one or more electrical loads. The remote control device can be configured to control one or more load control devices of a load control system without requiring electrical wiring to the load control system. One or more electrical loads can be electrically connected to the load control device, allowing the load control device to control the amount of power delivered to the one or more electrical loads. The control unit of the remote control device can be configured to transmit one or more commands for controlling the electrical loads via wireless communication.

[0007] Remote control devices can be configured to hold the actuators of their mounted mechanical switches in a corresponding on-position, preventing a user of the remote control from mistakenly switching the actuators to the off-position. Switching to the off-position could de-energize one or more electrical loads, rendering them uncontrollable by the remote control devices. Remote control devices can be configured to, for example, control multiple types of electrical loads on a single circuit substantially uniformly. A load control system may include multiple remote control devices configured to provide individual (e.g., zone) control of each of multiple electrical loads coupled to a single circuit.

[0008] The remote control device may include a panel assembly and a control unit. The panel assembly may include a panel, an adapter plate, and a mounting frame. The adapter plate may be configured to attach to a yoke of a mounted mechanical switch. The mounting frame may be configured to space the panel from the edge of the mounted mechanical switch. The control unit may be configured to be removably attached to the mounting frame. The panel may be configured to be removably attached to the adapter plate. One or more of the adapter plate, mounting frame, control unit, and panel of the remote control device may be configured to be staggered relative to the surface of a structure to which the one or more mechanical switches are mounted, such as the wall panel surface surrounding a wallbox to which the one or more mechanical switches are mounted.

[0009] In an exemplary installation process, the remote control device can be installed by the following steps: (1) removing the switch plate from the mechanical switch installed in the single-gang wall box; (2) attaching the adapter plate and mounting frame of the remote control device to the yoke of the mechanical switch; (3) attaching the panel of the remote control device to the adapter plate; and (4) attaching the control unit of the remote control device to the mounting frame, wherein the panel defines an opening through which a portion of the mounting frame is received when the panel is attached to the adapter plate. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1This is a perspective view of an exemplary remote control device.

[0011] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Front view of the exemplary remote control device shown.

[0012] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A side view of an exemplary remote control device shown.

[0013] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A partially exploded front perspective view of the exemplary remote control device shown.

[0014] Figure 5 yes Figure 1 Rear perspective view of an exemplary control unit of the exemplary remote control device shown.

[0015] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of an exemplary remote control device.

[0016] Figure 7 yes Figure 1 The example remote control device shown is a side cross-sectional view.

[0017] Figure 8A yes Figure 1 A front perspective view of an exemplary mounting frame for an exemplary remote control device.

[0018] Figure 8B yes Figure 8A The rear perspective view of the exemplary mounting frame shown.

[0019] Figure 8C yes Figure 8A The front view of the exemplary mounting frame shown.

[0020] Figure 8D yes Figure 8A A side view of the exemplary mounting frame shown.

[0021] Figure 8E yes Figure 8A A top view of the exemplary mounting frame shown.

[0022] Figure 9 yes Figure 8A The illustration shows a perspective view of an exemplary mounting frame located near a standard rocker switch in a double-wall enclosure.

[0023] Figure 10 This is a perspective view of an exemplary remote control device with an alternative control unit configuration.

[0024] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The diagram shows a partial exploded view of an exemplary remote control device, in which an exemplary base component is mounted to a rocker actuator of a light switch. Detailed Implementation

[0025] Figures 1 to 7 An example of a remote control device 100 that can be installed in a load control system, such as a lighting control system, is depicted. The load control system may include a mechanical switch 170, which may be in place before the installation of the remote control device 100, for example, pre-existing in the load control system. As shown, the mechanical switch 170 may be a standard decorative rocker switch. The load control system may also include one or more electrical loads, such as lighting loads. The mechanical switch 170 may be coupled in series between an alternating current (AC) power source and one or more electrical loads. The mechanical switch 170 may include an actuator 172, which may be surrounded by a frame 173 and can be actuated to turn on and / or off one or more electrical loads. When the electrical load is off, the upper portion 172a of the actuator 172 may protrude from the frame 173 (e.g., as shown). Figure 6 As shown, in a first orientation, and when an electrical load is applied, the lower portion 172b of the actuator 172 can protrude from the frame 173 (e.g., in a second orientation), and vice versa. The mechanical switch 170 may include a yoke 174 that allows the mechanical switch 170 to be mounted to a structure. For example, the yoke 174 may be fastened to a single-panel wall box installed in an opening in the structure (e.g., such as a wall, ceiling, etc.). The remote control device 100 may be configured to be mounted on the mechanical switch 170 in the single-panel wall box.

[0026] The load control system may also include a load control device (not shown) electrically connected to one or more electrical loads (e.g., lighting loads). The load control device may include load control circuitry for controlling the intensity of one or more lighting loads between a low-end intensity (e.g., approximately 1%) and a high-end intensity (e.g., approximately 100%), and may include wireless communication circuitry. In an exemplary implementation, the load control device may be an independent dimmer switch electrically connected to one or more lighting loads. In another exemplary implementation, each of the one or more electrical loads may be a controllable light source (e.g., a screw-in light-emitting diode (LED) lamp), each of which may include corresponding integrated load control circuitry and wireless communication circuitry (e.g., the lighting load includes a corresponding load control device configured for wireless communication). It should be understood that the load control system is not limited to the exemplary load control devices described herein.

[0027] The remote control device 100 may include a control unit 130 (e.g., a control module) and a panel assembly 105. The control unit 130 may include a user interface including an actuation portion 132 that can be attached to a base portion 134. The actuation portion 132 may include a front surface 135 having an upper portion 136 and a lower portion 138. The actuation portion 132 may be configured to pivot about a central axis in response to actuation of the upper portion 136 and the lower portion 138. The control unit 130 may be configured to control an electrical load to turn on the electrical load in response to actuation of the upper portion 136 and to turn off the electrical load in response to actuation of the lower portion 138. The front surface 135 of the actuation portion 132 may also be configured as a touch-sensitive surface (e.g., a capacitive touch surface) configured to receive (e.g., detect) user input, such as gestures, from the control unit 130. The control unit 130 may also include a light strip 139 configured to be illuminated by one or more light sources (e.g., one or more LEDs). For example, the light strip 139 can be illuminated to visually display information to the user of the control unit 130. The front surface 135 of the actuation portion 132 can be actuated along the light strip 139 to adjust the electrical power delivered to the lighting load according to the actuation position.

[0028] Panel assembly 105 may include a mounting plate 110, a mounting frame 190, and a panel 160. Before mounting the remote control device 100, a pre-existing panel (not shown) may be removed from the mechanical switch 170, for example, by removing panel screws (not shown) from corresponding panel screw holes 176 in the yoke 174. The mounting plate 110 may be made of any suitable material, such as plastic. The mounting plate 110 may be configured to attach to the yoke 174 of the mechanical switch 170. For example, the mounting plate 110 may be secured to the yoke 174 using fasteners (such as screws 111), which are received through openings 113 in the mounting plate 110 and fitted into the panel screw holes 176 in the yoke 174. As shown, the mounting plate 110 may define an opening 112 extending therethrough. The opening 112 may be configured to receive a portion of the mechanical switch 170, which may include, for example, an actuator 172 and / or a border 173 surrounding the periphery of the actuator 172. The adapter plate 110 may define a rear edge 114, which is configured to abut a surface of a structure to which the mechanical switch 170 is mounted, such as the surface of a wall panel surrounding a wallbox to which the mechanical switch 170 is mounted. The adapter plate 110 may be configured such that the panel 160 is spaced apart from the structure and appears to float above the structure.

[0029] Panel 160 may define a front surface 161 and an opposing rear surface 163. The front surface 161 may alternatively be referred to as the outer surface of panel 160, and the rear surface 163 may alternatively be referred to as the inner surface of panel 160. Panel 160 may define an opening 162 therethrough, configured to receive a portion of control unit 130 such that control unit 130 protrudes from panel 160 when remote control device 100 is in an assembled configuration. Panel 160 may define one or more snap-fits (e.g., resilient snap-fit ​​connectors) extending from rear surface 163 and configured to engage one or more holes 118 of adapter plate 110 to releasably attach panel 160 to adapter plate 110. Panel 160 may be made of any suitable material, such as plastic. Panel 160 may include markings (not shown). Markings may indicate the proper orientation of panel 160. The rear surface 163 of the panel may include mounting instructions for panel 160 and / or remote control device 100.

[0030] Mounting frame 190 may define plate 192, opening 191, and mounting ring 195. Mounting ring 195 may extend from plate 192, for example, such that mounting ring 195 surrounds opening 191. Plate 192 may also define a lip 194 extending therefrom. Mounting ring 195 may extend from lip 194. Lip 194 may surround opening 191. Lip 194 may define an extension beyond the periphery of mounting ring 195. Lip 194 may be configured such that panel 160 is spaced apart from frame 173 of mechanical switch 170. For example, lip 194 may be configured to abut rear surface 163 of panel 160. For example, when remote control device 100 is mounted on mechanical switch 170, front surface of frame 173 may abut mounting frame 190. Rear surface 189 of plate 192 may be configured to abut yoke 174 of mechanical switch 170.

[0031] Mounting frame 190 may be configured to allow removable attachment of control unit 130 to mounting frame 190. For example, mounting frame 190 may define one or more attachment members configured to engage complementary features of control unit 130. As shown, mounting ring 195 may define one or more orifices 197 configured to engage complementary features of control unit 130. For example, each of the one or more orifices 197 may be configured to receive a corresponding snap 140 of control unit 130 (e.g., snap-fit ​​connector). Mounting ring 195 may extend through opening 112 in adapter plate 110 and through opening 162 in panel 160. Mounting ring 195 may extend from frame 173 of mechanical switch 170 through opening 162 in panel 160, allowing control unit 130 to be secured to mounting frame 190. For example, control unit 130 may be mounted to mounting frame 190 near front surface 161 of panel 160.

[0032] Mounting frame 190 may be configured to allow adapter plate 110 to be removably attached to mounting frame 190. For example, mounting frame 190 may define one or more tabs 196 configured to engage complementary features of adapter plate 110. Opening 112 of adapter plate 110 may be larger than opening 162 of panel 160. For example, opening 112 may have a larger perimeter than opening 162. The dimensions of opening 112 of adapter plate 110 may be designed to receive the frame 173 of mechanical switch 170, while the dimensions of opening 162 may be designed to receive the actuator 172 of mechanical switch 170. Opening 112 may be configured such that when remote control device 100 is mounted on mechanical switch 170, lip 194 and mounting ring 195 extend beyond adapter plate 110 (e.g., via opening 112). The adapter plate 110, which is removably attached to the adapter plate 110, allows the remote control device 100 to be installed in the range of a location (e.g., only in that location) where remote control of electrical loads is required.

[0033] The adapter plate 110 may be configured to allow the panel 160 to be removably attached to the adapter plate 110. For example, the adapter plate 110 may define one or more attachment members configured to engage complementary features of the panel 160. As previously described, one or more holes 118 of the adapter plate 110 may be configured to receive complementary features of the panel 160 (e.g., resilient snap-fit ​​connectors, such as snaps extending from the rear surface 163 of the panel 160). One or more holes 118 may be configured as recesses configured to engage complementary features of the panel 160.

[0034] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the control unit 130 may be rectangular in shape and extend between a first end 141 and an opposing second end 142. It should be understood that the control unit 130 is not limited to the rectangular geometry shown, and the control unit may alternatively be configured with other suitable geometries. Depending on the shown orientation of the control unit 130, the first end 141 may be referred to as the upper end of the control unit 130, and the second end 142 may be referred to as the lower end of the control unit 130. The first end 141 and the second end 142 of the control unit 130 may also be referred to as the first end and the second end of the base portion 134, respectively. The control unit 130 may include a printed circuit board 144 (e.g., a flexible or rigid printed circuit board). The base portion 134 may define a gap 146 configured to receive the printed circuit board 144 in an attachment location. The base portion 134 may be made of any suitable material, such as plastic.

[0035] The front surface 135 of the actuation portion 132 of the control unit 130 may define a capacitive touch user interface configured to receive input, such as gestures, from a user of the remote control device 100. For example, a printed circuit board 144 may include one or more capacitive touch areas or surfaces. The printed circuit board 144 may include a linear capacitive touch surface facing the inner surface of the actuation portion 132 when the printed circuit board 144 is disposed in the gap 146. The front surface 135 of the actuation portion 132 may be configured to detect touches along the x-axis, y-axis, or both the x-axis and y-axis.

[0036] The control unit 130 may further include control circuitry (e.g., a processor, not shown) and wireless communication circuitry (e.g., an RF transceiver, not shown). The control circuitry and wireless communication circuitry may be mounted on a printed circuit board 144. For example, the control unit 130 may include an integrated circuit 145, which may be mounted on the printed circuit board 144 (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 5(As shown), and may include an integrated processor and an integrated RF transceiver. Control circuitry may be electrically connected to the capacitive touch area of ​​the printed circuit board 144, and wireless communication circuitry may be electrically connected to the control circuitry. The printed circuit board 144 may be configured such that the capacitive touch area is isolated from the control circuitry, wireless communication circuitry, and / or other "noisy" circuitry of the printed circuit board 144, which may improve the operational efficiency of the capacitive touch area. The control unit 130 may be configured to convert one or more inputs applied via the front surface 135 of the actuation portion 132 into corresponding control signals that can be used to control a load control device of a load control system. For example, the control circuitry may be configured to receive from the capacitive touch surface a signal corresponding to an input (such as a gesture) applied to the front surface 135 of the actuation portion 132 by a user of the remote control device 100. The control circuitry may be configured to interpret the signal as a command that the user expects the control unit 130 to cause to be executed.

[0037] The light strip 139 of the control unit 130 may be configured to provide a visual indication of commands issued by the remote control device 100. For example, the control circuitry may be configured to, upon receiving a gesture indicating a change in the amount of electricity delivered to the electrical load (such as a command to dim a lighting load), indicate the amount of electricity delivered by temporarily illuminating multiple LEDs corresponding to the desired amount of electricity (e.g., the desired dimming level of the lighting load). In such an example, the control circuitry may be configured to illuminate the LEDs simultaneously, in a sequence with some or little overlap before dimming, or otherwise as needed.

[0038] The control unit 130 shown may be battery powered. For example, as shown, the control unit 130 may include electrical contacts 182 mounted to a printed circuit board 144 and configured to hold a battery 180, such as a coin cell battery as shown. The battery 180 may be positioned to be electrically connected to circuitry mounted to the printed circuit board 144, for example, to power a capacitive touch area, control circuitry, wireless communication circuitry, and / or other circuitry of the control unit 130. Alternatively, the control unit 130 may be configured to draw power from a power source (e.g., AC power) connected to a mechanical switch 170. Additionally, the control unit 130 may be powered by a power source located in the panel assembly 105. For example, an adapter plate 110 may be configured to store one or more batteries, for example, in a gap defined between the inner surface of the panel 160 and the adapter plate 110, and these batteries may be electrically connected to the control unit 130 to power the control unit's circuitry.

[0039] The control unit 130 can be configured to be attached to the mounting frame 190, wherein the light strip 139 is located on a predetermined side of the control unit (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 1On the right side of the control unit shown, for example, a light strip 139 can be illuminated to indicate the current amount of power delivered to the electrical load. The control unit 130 can be configured to attach to the mounting frame 190, with the light strip 139 located on a predetermined side of the control unit, regardless of the position of the actuator 172 of the mechanical switch 170 (e.g., whether the upper portion 172a or the lower portion 172b of the actuator 172 protrudes from the frame 173). For example, the control unit 130 can be configured to receive the battery 180 in the central portion (e.g., center) of the base portion 134. When the battery 180 is located in the central portion of the base portion 134, the control unit 130 can be mounted on the mechanical switch 170, with the actuator 172 of the mechanical switch 170 in either orientation. Alternatively, the control unit 130 can be configured to attach to the mounting frame 190 with the light strip 139 located on the left side of the control unit.

[0040] When the control unit 130 is attached to the mounting frame 190, the recess 146 of the control unit 130 can be configured to receive a portion of the actuator 172 of the mechanical switch 170. The control unit 130 can define a separate portion of the recess 146, for example, as... Figure 5 As shown. For example, the separated portions of the gap 146 can be separated by a support arm 148. For example, the support arm 148 can define a first portion 146a, a second portion 146b, and a third portion 146c of the gap 146. The second portion 146b of the gap 146 can be the central portion of the gap 146 configured to hold the battery 180. The first portion 146a and the third portion 146c can be edge portions of the gap 146 configured to receive the protrusion of the actuator 172 of the mechanical switch 170. For example, when the mechanical switch 170 is in a first orientation (e.g., when the upper portion 172a of the actuator 172 protrudes from the frame 173), the first portion 146a can receive the upper portion 172a of the actuator 172. When the mechanical switch 170 is in the second orientation (e.g., when the lower portion 172a of the actuator 172 protrudes from the frame 173), the third portion 146c can receive a portion of the lower portion 172b of the actuator 172.

[0041] When the control unit 130 is attached to the mounting frame 190, a corresponding portion of the gap 146 can be positioned over and receive the portion of the actuator 172 that protrudes from the mechanical switch 170. For illustration, if the actuator 172 of the mechanical switch 170 is in a first orientation such that the upper portion 172a of the actuator 172 protrudes from the frame 173, then the first portion 146a of the gap 146 can be positioned to receive the upper portion 172a of the actuator 172. Alternatively, if the actuator 172 of the mechanical switch 170 is in a second orientation such that the lower portion 172b of the actuator 172 protrudes from the frame 173, then the third portion 146c of the gap 146 can be positioned to receive the lower portion 172b of the actuator 172. In this respect, the control unit 130 can be configured to be attached to the mounting frame 190 when the actuator 172 of the mechanical switch 170 is in at least the first and second orientations. The control unit 130 and / or mounting frame 190 may be keyed, such that the control unit 130 can only be mounted in a first orientation or a second orientation.

[0042] A snap-fit ​​connector 140 may be configured to engage a corresponding aperture 197 of a mounting ring 195 to releasably attach the control unit 130 to a mounting frame 190 (e.g., mounting ring 195). Snap-fit ​​connectors 140 may be spaced apart along opposite sides of a gap 146 and protrude into the gap. For example, each side of the gap 146 (e.g., all four sides) may include one or more snap-fit ​​connectors 140. Snap-fit ​​connectors 140 may be configured to mount the control unit 130 to the mounting frame 190. The battery 180 in the control unit 130 may be removed and / or replaced without removing the panel 160. For example, the control unit 130 may be removed from the mounting frame 190 (e.g., mounting ring 195) to allow replacement of the battery 180. An adapter plate 110 may be configured to store one or more spare batteries, for example, in an aperture defined between the inner surface of the panel 160 and the adapter plate 110, and these batteries may be used to replace a depleted battery in the control unit 130.

[0043] The control circuitry can be configured to enable the wireless communication circuitry to transmit a corresponding command corresponding to an interpreted gesture received at the capacitive touch surface. For example, the remote control device 100 is operable to transmit wireless signals (e.g., radio frequency (RF) signals) to a load control device, one or more electrical loads, and / or the central processing unit of a load control system. During the configuration process of the load control system, the remote control device 100 can be associated with the load control device and one or more electrical loads. An example of a configuration process for associating a remote control device with a load control device is described in more detail in commonly assigned U.S. Patent Publication No. 2008 / 0111491, entitled “Radio-Frequency Lighting Control System,” published May 15, 2008, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0044] The adapter plate 110, control unit 130, and / or panel 160 may be configured to stagger relative to the surfaces of the structure to which the mechanical switch 170 is mounted, such as the wall panel surface surrounding the wallbox to which the mechanical switch 170 is mounted. For example, when the mounting frame 190 is attached to the yoke 174 of the mechanical switch 170, the control unit 130 is attached to the mounting frame 190, and the panel 160 is attached to the adapter plate 110, the rear edge 165 of the panel 160 may be spaced apart from the rear edge 114 of the adjacent structural surface (e.g., the wall panel surface) of the adapter plate 110 by a first distance D1, such that the panel 160 is spaced apart from the structural surface (e.g., as shown in the image). Figure 3 (As shown). Additionally, the front surface 161 of panel 160 may be spaced apart from the rear edge 165 of panel 160 by a second distance D2, and the outer surface of control unit 130 may be spaced apart from the front surface 161 of panel 160 by a third distance D3. The first distance D1, the second distance D2, and the third distance D3 may be substantially equal to each other. However, it should be understood that one or more of the adapter plate 110, control unit 130, and / or panel 160 may be otherwise configured such that one or more of the first distance D1, the second distance D2, and the third distance D3 are different from each other.

[0045] Although the adapter plate 110 and the mounting frame 190 are shown as separate components, it should be understood that the adapter plate 110 and the mounting frame 190 can be combined into a single component. For example, the adapter plate 110 and the mounting frame 190 can be molded together. Alternatively, the panel 160, the adapter plate 110, and the mounting frame 190 can be molded together as a single component, for example.

[0046] Figures 8A to 8E Various views of an exemplary mounting frame 190 are depicted. The mounting frame 190 may define a recess 193 adjacent to an opening 191. For example, the recess 193 may surround the opening 191, such as... Figure 8B As shown. A notch 193 extends from the rear surface 188 of the plate 192 of the mounting frame 190 to the rear surface 189 of the mounting ring 195. This notch can be defined as a fourth opening between the plate 192 and the mounting ring 195. When the remote control device 100 is mounted on the mechanical switch 170, the notch 193 can be configured to receive a portion of the mechanical switch 170 (e.g., a frame 173). For example, when the remote control device 100 is mounted on the mechanical switch 170, the front surface of the frame 173 can abut against the rear surface 189 of the mounting ring 195. The mounting frame 190 can define one or more cavities 199. One or more cavities 199 can be defined from the rear surface 188 of the plate 192 of the mounting frame 190. One or more cavities 199 can be configured to receive the yoke 174 of the mechanical switch 170.

[0047] Mounting ring 195 may include apertures 197 extending through it. For example, as shown, each side of mounting ring 195 may include one or more apertures 197. In the example, mounting ring 195 may include two apertures 197 on the top and bottom sides and four apertures 197 on the left and right sides. One or more apertures 197 may be rectangular and may begin at a lip 194. One or more apertures 197 may extend (e.g., partially extend) into the lip 194.

[0048] Plate 192 may be defined by thickness D4. Lip 194 may extend from plate 192 by distance D5. Mounting ring 195 may extend from lip 194 by distance D6. Distance D5 may be configured such that panel 160 is spaced from the frame 173 of mechanical switch 170, such that mounting ring 195 extends through opening 162 of panel 160. Distance D5 may be as thin as possible, for example, about 0.030 inches. Distance D6 may be configured such that control unit 130 is securely held by mounting ring 195. For example, distance D6 may be configured such that each latch 140 of control unit 130 can be received by a corresponding aperture 197 in mounting ring 195.

[0049] Figure 9 An exemplary mounting frame 290 is depicted in a multi-opening wall enclosure. For example, a remote control device (e.g., remote control device 100) may be configured to be mounted above a first mechanical switch 270 and close to a second electrical device (e.g., a second mechanical switch 275) in the multi-opening wall enclosure. As shown, the multi-opening wall enclosure may be a double-opening wall enclosure. The remote control device may be mounted next to one or more other remote control devices and / or one or more other mechanical switches in the multi-opening wall enclosure.

[0050] It should be understood that the second electrical device in the multi-panel wall box 250 is not limited to the second mechanical switch 275. For example, the second electrical device may alternatively be a power outlet, or another type of electrical device configured to be used with a panel having a decorative opening.

[0051] The remote control device may include an adapter plate 210, a mounting frame 290, a control unit (not shown), and a panel (not shown). The control unit may be constructed equivalently to the control unit 130 of the remote control device. The adapter plate 210, mounting frame 290, and panel may be constructed similarly to the adapter plate 110, mounting frame 190, and panel 160, having the following configuration differences used in the dual-opening implementation.

[0052] As shown, the adapter plate 210 may define a first opening 212 and a second opening 213 extending therethrough. The first opening 212 and the second opening 213 may be configured to receive corresponding portions of a first mechanical switch 270 and a second mechanical switch 275, which may include, for example, actuators 272, 277 and corresponding frames 273, 278 surrounding the respective peripheries of the actuators 272, 277. The adapter plate 210 may define a rear edge 214 configured to abut a surface of the structure to which the first mechanical switch 270 and the second mechanical switch 275 are mounted, such as the wall panel surface surrounding a double-panel enclosure to which the first mechanical switch 270 and the second mechanical switch 275 are mounted. A mounting frame 290 may be installed in the first opening 212 and / or the second opening 213 of the adapter plate 210. For example, the mounting frame 290 may be installed in the first opening 212, such as... Figure 9 As shown.

[0053] Prior to the installation of the remote control device, the original mounting position of the second mechanical switch 275 (e.g., where the yoke 279 is tightened to a double-leaf wall case) may cause the actuator 277 and the frame 278 of the second mechanical switch 275 to be recessed relative to the front surface of the panel. However, during the attachment of the adapter plate 210 to the yoke 279 of the second mechanical switch 270, the screws (not shown) securing the yoke 279 to the double-leaf wall case can be loosened. With the screws securing the yoke 279 loosened, the screw 216 corresponding to the second opening 213 can be tightened, which can pull the yoke 279 of the second mechanical switch 275 outward relative to the double-leaf wall case and toward the outer surface of the adapter plate 210. The process of loosening the screws securing the yoke 279 and then tightening the screw 216 can be repeated until the yoke 279 of the second mechanical switch 275 is moved sufficiently outward so that when the panel is attached to the adapter plate 210, the frame 278 is substantially flush with or protrudes from the front surface of the panel. In this regard, the adapter plate 210 can be configured to allow adjustment of the yokes 274, 279 of the first mechanical switch 270 and the second mechanical switch 275, respectively, toward and away from the double-wall enclosure and toward or away from the front surface of the panel. An example of a similar process for installing a remote control device in a multi-wall enclosure is disclosed in co-assigned U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017 / 0278652, entitled “RETROFIT REMOTECONTROL DEVICES,” published September 28, 2017, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0054] Figure 10 and Figure 11 An example of a remote control device 300 that can be installed in a load control system (such as a lighting control system) is depicted. The load control system may include a mechanical switch 370 (e.g., Figure 4 , Figure 6 and Figure 7 The mechanical switch 170 shown can be in place before the remote control device 300 is installed, for example, pre-existing in the load control system. As shown, the mechanical switch 370 can be a standard decorative rocker switch, as described herein. The load control system may also include one or more electrical loads, such as lighting loads. The mechanical switch 370 can be coupled in series between an AC power source and one or more electrical loads.

[0055] The load control system may also include a load control device (not shown) electrically connected to one or more electrical loads (e.g., lighting loads). The load control device may include load control circuitry for controlling the intensity of one or more lighting loads between a low-end intensity (e.g., approximately 1%) and a high-end intensity (e.g., approximately 100%), and may include wireless communication circuitry. In an exemplary implementation, the load control device may be an independent dimmer switch electrically connected to one or more lighting loads. In another exemplary implementation, each of the one or more electrical loads may be a controllable light source (e.g., a screw-in light-emitting diode (LED) lamp), each of which may include corresponding integrated load control circuitry and wireless communication circuitry (e.g., the lighting load includes a corresponding load control device configured for wireless communication). It should be understood that the load control system is not limited to the exemplary load control devices described herein.

[0056] The remote control device 300 may include a control unit 330 (e.g., a control module), a base 320, and a panel assembly 305 (e.g., panel assembly 105). The base 320 may serve as a mounting for the control unit 330, for example, to mount the control unit 330 to the panel assembly 305. The base 320 may alternatively be referred to as a base portion or mounting assembly. The control unit 330 and the base 320 may be configured such that the control unit 330 can be removably attached to the base 320. The control unit 330 may alternatively be referred to as a control module. It should be understood that other control units described herein may similarly and alternatively be referred to as control modules.

[0057] The control unit 330 may include a user interface comprising a rotating portion 332 and an actuating portion 334. The rotating portion 332 may rotate relative to the base 320 and / or the panel assembly 305 (e.g., panel 360). For example, as shown, the control unit 330 includes an annular rotating portion 332 configured to rotate about the base 320. The remote control device 300 may be configured such that the control unit 330 and the base 320 are removably attached to each other. Figure 11 A remote control device 300 is depicted, wherein a control unit 330 is detached from a base 320. When the control unit 330 is attached to the base 320 (e.g., as shown in the image), Figure 10 As shown, the rotating part 332 can rotate about the base 320 in opposite directions, such as clockwise or counterclockwise. The base 320 can be configured to be mounted above the light switch such that applying rotational movement to the rotating part 332 will not actuate the light switch.

[0058] The actuating portion 334 can operate separately from or in conjunction with the rotating portion 332. As shown, the actuating portion 334 may include a circular surface within the opening defined by the rotating portion 332. In an exemplary implementation, the actuating portion 334 may be configured to move inward toward a light switch to actuate a mechanical switch (not shown) inside the control unit 330, such as as described herein. The actuating portion 334 may be configured to return to an idle or rest position after being actuated. In this respect, the actuating portion 334 may be configured to operate as a toggle control of the control unit 330.

[0059] The remote control device 300 may be configured to transmit one or more wireless communication signals (e.g., RF signals) to one or more control devices. The remote control device 300 may include wireless communication circuitry, such as an RF transceiver or transmitter (not shown), via which one or more wireless communication signals may be transmitted and / or received. The control unit 330 may be configured to transmit digital messages (e.g., commands) in response to one or more actuations applied to the control unit 330 (such as operation of the rotating portion 332 and / or the actuating portion 334). The digital messages may be transmitted to one or more devices associated with the remote control device 300, such as a controllable light source. For example, the control unit 330 may be configured to transmit a command to increase the intensity of the controllable light source via one or more RF signals in response to clockwise rotation of the rotating portion 332, and a command to decrease the intensity of the controllable light source in response to counterclockwise rotation of the rotating portion 332. The control unit 330 may be configured to transmit a command to switch the controllable light source (e.g., from off to on, or vice versa) in response to actuation of the actuating portion 334. Additionally, the control unit 330 can be configured to transmit a command to turn on the controllable light source in response to actuation of the actuation section 334 (e.g., if the control unit 330 knows that the controllable light source is currently off). The control unit 330 can also be configured to transmit a command to turn off the controllable light source in response to actuation of the actuation section 334 (e.g., if the control unit 330 knows that the controllable light source is currently on).

[0060] As described herein, the remote control device 300 may include a battery (not shown) for powering at least the remote control device 300. The remote control device 300 may be configured such that a control unit 330 is releasably attached to a base 320 (e.g., to allow battery replacement). For example, the control unit 330 may include two tabs (not shown) configured to snap onto corresponding attachment clips 328 on the base 320. The control unit 330 can be mounted on the base 320 by pushing the control unit toward the base 320 until the tabs of the control unit 330 engage the attachment clips 328. The control unit 330 can be released from the base 320 by pulling the control unit 330 away from the base 320. Additionally, the base 320 may include a release mechanism that can be actuated to release the control unit 330 from the base 320. For example, the base 320 may include a sliding release tab that can be actuated to release the control unit 330 from the base 320.

[0061] The remote control device 300 may be configured to be mounted above a rocker actuator 372 (e.g., rather than a toggle actuator). For example, the remote control device 300 may include a cover portion 340 (e.g., a mounting adapter plate) and a mounting frame 390. The cover portion 340 may be configured to cover the actuator of the mechanical switch and receive a base 320. For example, the base 320 may be attached (e.g., releasably attached) to the cover portion 340. The base 320 may define an opening 322 to allow the base 320 to be attached to the cover portion 340 (e.g., as will be described in more detail below). The cover portion 340 may be configured to releasably retain the base 320. The cover portion 340 may define a front surface 342 and a rear surface 344. The cover portion 340 may include a mounting tab 345 extending from the front surface 342. The mounting tab 345 may be configured to be received in the opening 322 of the base 320. The mounting tab 345 can be configured to prevent rotation of the base 320 when the base 320 is attached to the cover portion 340 and the rotating portion 332 rotates. The cover portion 340 may include one or more snaps (e.g., similar to those extending from the rear surface 534). Figure 5 (See clip 140 shown). One or more clips may be configured to secure the cover portion 340 to the panel assembly 305.

[0062] The remote control device 300 may include a fastener 335. The fastener 335 may be configured to secure the remote control device 300 (e.g., base 320) to a cover portion 340. For example, the fastener 335 may be configured to secure the base 320 to a platform 380 extending from the front surface 342 of the cover portion 340. A mounting tab 345 may extend from the platform 380. The platform 380 may define an aperture 382. The aperture 382 may receive the fastener 335, for example, to secure the remote control device 300 (e.g., base 320) to the cover portion 340. The aperture 382 may be threaded. The base 320 may include a through-hole 326 configured to receive the fastener 335. When the remote control device 300 is secured to the cover portion 340, the rear surface 324 of the base 320 may abut against the front surface 342 of the cover portion 340.

[0063] Panel assembly 305 may include a mounting plate 310, a mounting frame 390, and a panel 360. A pre-existing panel (not shown) can be removed from the mechanical switch 370 before the remote control device 300 is installed. The mounting plate 310 may be made of any suitable material, such as plastic. The mounting plate 310 may be configured to attach to a yoke of the mechanical switch 370 (e.g., Figure 6 (See yoke 174). Panel 360 can be configured to attach to adapter plate 310. Adapter plate 310 can define a rear edge 314 configured to abut a surface of a structure to which mechanical switch 370 is mounted, such as the wall panel surface surrounding the wallbox to which mechanical switch 370 is mounted. Adapter plate 310 can be configured such that panel 360 is spaced apart from the structure and appears to float on the structure.

[0064] Panel 360 may define a front surface 361 and an opposite rear surface (e.g., Figure 7 The rear surface 163 is shown. The front surface 361 may alternatively be referred to as the outer surface of the panel 360, and the rear surface may alternatively be referred to as the inner surface of the panel 360. The panel 360 may define an opening therethrough (e.g., Figure 6 The opening 162 shown is configured to receive part of the mounting frame 390. Panel 360 may define one or more snap-fits (e.g., resilient snap-fit ​​connectors) extending from its rear surface and is configured to engage one or more holes in adapter plate 310 to releasably attach panel 360 to adapter plate 310. Panel 360 may be made of any suitable material, such as plastic. Panel 360 may include markings (not shown), such as a manufacturer's name or icon. The markings may indicate the correct orientation of panel 360. The rear surface of the panel may include mounting instructions for panel 360 and / or remote control device 300.

[0065] Mounting frame 390 can limit the board (e.g., Figure 6 and Figures 8A to 8D The plate 192 shown), and the opening (e.g., Figure 6 and Figures 8A to 8B The opening 191 and mounting ring 395 are shown. The mounting ring 395 may extend from the plate, for example, such that the mounting ring 395 surrounds the opening. When the remote control device 300 is mounted on the mechanical switch 370, the front surface of the frame of the mechanical switch 370 may abut against the mounting frame 390.

[0066] Mounting frame 390 may be configured to allow removable attachment of cover portion 340 to mounting frame 390. For example, mounting frame 390 may define one or more attachment members configured to engage complementary features of cover portion 340. As shown, mounting ring 395 may define one or more orifices 397 configured to engage complementary features of cover portion 340. For example, each of the one or more orifices 397 may be configured to receive a corresponding snap-fit ​​(e.g., snap-fit ​​connector) of cover portion 340. Mounting ring 395 may extend through an opening in panel 360. Mounting ring 395 may extend from the edge of mechanical switch 370 through an opening in panel 360, allowing cover portion 340 to be secured to mounting frame 390. For example, cover portion 340 may be mounted to mounting frame 390 near front surface 361 of panel 360.

[0067] It should be further understood that the exemplary remote control devices 100, 300 shown and described herein can provide a simple retrofit solution for existing switch control systems and can simplify or enhance the installation of load control systems. For example, a load control system integrating one or more remote control devices 100, 300 can provide energy-saving and / or advanced control features without requiring any electrical rewiring and / or replacement of any existing mechanical switches.

[0068] It should also be further understood that the load control system to which the exemplary remote control devices 100 and 300 can be integrated is not limited to the aforementioned exemplary load control devices and / or electrical loads. For example, the load control system to which the exemplary remote control devices 100 and 300 can be integrated may include one or more of the following: a dimming ballast for driving a gas discharge lamp; a light-emitting diode (LED) driver for driving an LED light source; a dimming circuit for controlling the intensity of a lighting load; a screw-in lighting device including a dimmer circuit and an incandescent or halogen lamp; a screw-in lighting device including a ballast and a compact fluorescent lamp; a screw-in lighting device including an LED driver and an LED light source; an electronic switch, a controllable circuit breaker, or other switching device for switching the appliance on and off; a plug-in load control device, a controllable electrical outlet, or a controllable power board for controlling one or more plug-in loads; and a motor control unit for controlling a motor load, such as a ceiling fan or exhaust fan. Fans; drive units for controlling appliances on electric windows or projection screens; one or more electric internal and / or external blinds; thermostats for heating and / or cooling systems; temperature control devices for controlling the setpoint temperature of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems; air conditioners; compressors; electric floor heater controllers; controllable dampers; variable air volume controllers; fresh air intake controllers; ventilation controllers; hydraulic valves in one or more radiators for radiant heating systems; humidity control units; humidifiers; dehumidifiers; water heaters; boiler controllers; pool pumps; refrigerators; freezers; television and / or computer monitors; cameras; audio systems or amplifiers; elevators; power supplies; generators; chargers, such as electric vehicle chargers; alternative energy controllers, etc.

Claims

1. A remote control device configured for use in a load control system including a load control device, the load control device being configured to control the delivery of electrical power to an electrical load electrically connected to the load control device, the remote control device comprising: An adapter plate configured to be attached to a yoke of a mechanical switch that controls whether to deliver power to the electrical load, the adapter plate defining a first opening; Mounting frame, the mounting frame defining a plate, a second opening through the plate, and a mounting ring extending from the plate and surrounding the second opening, the mounting frame including a lip around the second opening, the lip extending from the plate; A control unit configured to be attached to the mounting ring, the control unit including a user interface and wireless communication circuitry, the control unit being configured to convert user input received via the user interface into control signals for controlling the load control device, and to cause the wireless communication circuitry to transmit the control signals; as well as A panel configured to be attached to the adapter plate, the panel defining a third opening therethrough. When the mechanical switch is installed in the wall enclosure, the mounting frame is attached to the adapter plate, and the adapter plate is attached to the panel. When the mechanical switch is installed in the wall box, the lip abuts the frame of the mechanical switch such that the panel is spaced apart from the frame of the mechanical switch, allowing the mounting ring to extend through the first opening and the third opening, and wherein a portion of the mechanical switch extends through the second opening.

2. The remote control device of claim 1, wherein the mounting ring extends from the lip portion.

3. The remote control device of claim 1, wherein the lip is configured to abut the rear surface of the panel such that the panel is spaced apart from the frame of the mechanical switch.

4. The remote control device of claim 3, wherein the plate is configured to be adjacent to the yoke of the mechanical switch.

5. The remote control device of claim 1, wherein the lip is configured such that the panel is spaced apart from the wall box and the structure in which the wall box is mounted.

6. The remote control device of claim 1, wherein the mounting ring and the lip define the second opening, and the plate defines a recess configured to receive the frame of the mechanical switch.

7. The remote control device of claim 6, wherein the lip includes a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending in a first direction substantially perpendicular to the plate, and the second portion extending in a second direction substantially parallel to the plate and toward the center of the second opening.

8. The remote control device of claim 7, wherein the lip is configured to extend beyond the portion of the yoke surrounding the frame of the mechanical switch.

9. The remote control device of claim 1, wherein the mounting ring includes a plurality of openings configured to receive corresponding snaps of the control unit to removably secure the control unit to the mounting ring.

10. The remote control device of claim 1, wherein when the control unit is attached to the mounting ring and the panel is attached to the adapter plate, the rear surface of the panel is spaced apart from the rear surface of the adjacent structural surface of the adapter plate.

11. The remote control device of claim 1, wherein when the panel is attached to the adapter plate, the panel is spaced apart from the surface of the structure to which the mechanical switch is mounted.

12. The remote control device of claim 1, wherein the control unit is removably attached to the mounting ring.

13. The remote control device of claim 1, wherein the control unit defines a notch configured to receive a portion of the toggle of the mechanical switch when the control unit is attached to the mounting ring.

14. The remote control device of claim 1, wherein the control unit includes a battery located at the midpoint of the control unit, such that the battery does not interfere with the actuator when the actuator of the mechanical switch is in either of the two orientations.

15. The remote control device of claim 1, wherein the portion of the mechanical switch extending through the second opening is a rocker actuator of the mechanical switch.

16. The remote control device of claim 1, wherein the user interface includes an actuation portion that can be actuated to generate the user input.

17. The remote control device of claim 16, wherein the user interface is configured as a touch-sensitive surface.

18. The remote control device of claim 16, wherein the user interface includes a rotatable portion relative to the panel.

19. A panel assembly configured to be mounted above a mechanical switch installed in a wall box, wherein the mechanical switch is configured to control whether to deliver power to an electrical load, the panel assembly comprising: An adapter plate defining a first opening extending therethrough; Mounting frame, the mounting frame defining a plate, a second opening through the plate, and a mounting ring extending from the plate and surrounding the second opening, the mounting frame including a lip around the second opening, the lip extending from the plate; as well as A panel configured to be attached to the adapter plate, the panel defining a third opening therethrough. When the mechanical switch is installed in the wall enclosure, the adapter plate is attached to the yoke of the mechanical switch, the mounting frame is attached to the adapter plate, and the adapter plate is attached to the panel. When the mechanical switch is installed in the wall box, the lip abuts the frame of the mechanical switch such that the panel is spaced apart from the frame of the mechanical switch, allowing the mounting ring to extend through the first opening and the third opening, and wherein a portion of the mechanical switch extends through the second opening.

20. The panel assembly of claim 19, wherein the mounting ring extends from the lip portion.

21. The panel assembly of claim 19, wherein the lip is configured to abut the rear surface of the panel such that the panel is spaced apart from the bezel of the mechanical switch.

22. The panel assembly of claim 21, wherein the panel is configured to adjoin the yoke of the mechanical switch.

23. The panel assembly of claim 19, wherein the lip is configured such that the panel is spaced apart from the wall box and the structure in which the wall box is mounted.

24. The panel assembly of claim 19, wherein the mounting ring and the lip define the second opening, and the plate defines a fourth opening, the perimeter of which is greater than that of the second opening.

25. The panel assembly of claim 24, wherein the lip extends from the plate at the edge of the fourth opening, and wherein the lip comprises a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending in a first direction substantially perpendicular to the plate, and the second portion extending in a second direction substantially parallel to the plate and toward the center of the second opening.

26. The panel assembly of claim 25, wherein the lip is configured to extend beyond a portion of the yoke surrounding the bezel of the mechanical switch.

27. The panel assembly of claim 19, wherein the mounting ring is configured to receive a remote control unit such that the remote control unit is removably attached to the panel assembly.

28. The panel assembly of claim 27, wherein the mounting ring includes a plurality of apertures therethrough, the plurality of apertures being configured to engage complementary features of the remote control unit.

29. The panel assembly of claim 19, wherein when the panel is attached to the adapter plate, the panel is spaced apart from the surface of the structure to which the mechanical switch is mounted.

30. The panel assembly of claim 19, wherein the portion of the mechanical switch extending through the second opening is a rocker actuator of the mechanical switch.

31. A multi-panel assembly configured to be mounted above a mechanical switch installed in a wall box, wherein the mechanical switch is configured to control whether to deliver power to an electrical load, the panel assembly comprising: An adapter plate defining a first adapter plate opening and a second adapter plate opening extending therethrough; Mounting frame, the mounting frame defining a plate, a mounting frame opening through the plate, and a mounting ring extending from the plate and surrounding the mounting frame opening, the mounting frame including a lip around the mounting frame opening, the lip extending from the plate, wherein the lip is configured to abut against the frame of the mechanical switch and the rear surface of the panel, such that the panel is spaced apart from the frame of the mechanical switch. as well as A panel configured to be attached to the adapter plate, the panel defining a first panel opening and a second panel opening therethrough. When the mechanical switch and at least one other electrical device are installed in the wall enclosure, the adapter plate is attached to the yoke of the mechanical switch and the yoke of the at least one other electrical device, the mounting frame is attached to the adapter plate, and the adapter plate is attached to the panel. When the mechanical switch is installed in the wall enclosure, the lip is configured to abut the frame of the mechanical switch such that the panel is spaced apart from the frame of the mechanical switch, allowing the mounting ring to extend through the first adapter plate opening and the first panel opening, and wherein a portion of the mechanical switch is configured to extend through the mounting frame opening and the first panel opening.

32. The panel assembly of claim 31, wherein the lip is configured to abut the rear surface of the panel such that the panel is spaced apart from the bezel of the mechanical switch.

33. The panel assembly of claim 31, wherein the mounting ring extends from the lip portion.

34. The panel assembly of claim 31, wherein a portion of at least one other electrical device mounted in the wall enclosure extends through the second panel opening.

35. The panel assembly of claim 31, wherein the panel is configured to adjoin the yoke of the mechanical switch.

36. The panel assembly of claim 31, wherein the lip is configured such that the panel is spaced apart from the wall box and the structure in which the wall box is mounted.

37. The panel assembly of claim 31, wherein the mounting ring and the lip define the mounting frame opening, the plate defines a plate opening, and the perimeter of the plate opening is greater than that of the mounting frame opening.

38. The panel assembly of claim 37, wherein the lip extends from the panel at the edge of the panel opening, and wherein the lip comprises a first portion and a second portion, the first portion extending in a first direction substantially perpendicular to the panel, and the second portion extending in a second direction substantially parallel to the panel and toward the center of the mounting frame opening.

39. The panel assembly of claim 38, wherein the lip is configured to extend beyond the portion of the yoke surrounding the bezel of the mechanical switch.

40. The panel assembly of claim 31, wherein the mounting ring is configured to receive a control unit such that the control unit is removably attached to the panel assembly.

41. The panel assembly of claim 40, wherein the mounting ring includes a plurality of apertures therethrough, the plurality of apertures being configured to engage complementary features of the control unit.

42. The panel assembly of claim 40, wherein the mounting frame is a first mounting frame, the plate is a first plate, the mounting ring is a first mounting ring, and the control unit is a first control unit, the panel assembly further comprising a second mounting frame defining a second plate, a second mounting frame opening through the second plate, and a second mounting ring extending from the second plate and surrounding the second mounting frame opening, wherein the second mounting ring is configured to receive a second control unit such that the second control unit is removably attached to the panel assembly.

43. The panel assembly of claim 42, wherein the mechanical switch is a first mechanical switch, and wherein the at least one electrical device is a second mechanical switch, the second mounting frame abuts the edge of the second mechanical switch, and the second mounting ring extends through the second adapter plate opening and the second panel opening, and wherein a portion of the second mechanical switch extends through the second mounting frame opening and the second panel opening.

44. The panel assembly of claim 31, wherein when the panel is attached to the adapter plate, the panel is spaced apart from the surface of the structure to which the mechanical switch is mounted.

45. The panel assembly of claim 31, wherein the extension of the mechanical switch through the opening in the mounting frame is a rocker actuator of the mechanical switch.

46. ​​A component configured for use in a load control system comprising a plurality of load control devices mounted in a multi-wall enclosure, each of the plurality of load control devices being configured to control the delivery of electrical energy to a corresponding electrical load electrically connected to the corresponding load control device, the component comprising: An adapter plate defining a first adapter opening and a second adapter opening extending therethrough; A first mounting frame defines a first plate, a first mounting frame opening through the first plate, and a first mounting ring extending from the first plate and surrounding the first mounting frame opening. The first mounting frame includes a first lip around the first mounting frame opening, the first lip extending from the first plate. A first control unit, configured to be attached to the first mounting ring, includes a user interface and wireless communication circuitry, and is configured to convert user input received via the user interface into a control signal for controlling the load control device, and to cause the wireless communication circuitry to transmit the control signal. as well as A panel configured to be attached to the adapter plate, the panel defining a first panel opening and a second panel opening therethrough. When the plurality of load control devices are installed in the wall enclosure, the adapter plate is attached to the yoke of each of the plurality of load control devices, the mounting frame is attached to the adapter plate, and the adapter plate is attached to the panel. The first lip portion is adjacent to the first frame of the first load control device in the plurality of load control devices and the rear surface of the panel, such that the panel is spaced apart from the first frame of the first load control device, so that the mounting ring can extend through the first transition opening and the first panel opening, and wherein a portion of the first load control device extends through the first mounting frame opening and the first panel opening.

47. The component of claim 46, further comprising: A second mounting frame defines a second plate, a second mounting frame opening through the second plate, and a second mounting ring extending from the second plate and surrounding the second mounting frame opening. The second mounting frame includes a second lip around the second mounting frame opening, the second lip extending from the second plate. as well as A second control unit, configured to be attached to the second mounting ring, includes a user interface and wireless communication circuitry. The second control unit is configured to convert user input received via the user interface into control signals for controlling the load control device, and to cause the wireless communication circuitry to transmit the control signals. The second lip portion abuts the second frame of the second load control device in the plurality of load control devices and the rear surface of the panel, such that the panel is spaced apart from the second frame of the second load control device, so that the second mounting ring can extend through the second transition opening and the second panel opening, and wherein a portion of the second load control device extends through the second mounting frame opening and the second panel opening.

48. The component of claim 47, wherein the first mounting ring and the second mounting ring include a plurality of apertures therethrough, the plurality of apertures being configured to engage complementary features of the first control unit or the second control unit.

49. The component of claim 47, wherein a portion of the second load control device extends through the second panel opening.

50. The component of claim 49, wherein the second load control device is a mechanical switch.

Images