Universal Retrofitted Smart Adapter for Remote and Automated Control of Manual Rotary Knobs

Abstract

A retrofit smart device that enables remote and automated operation of manual rotary knobs commonly found on appliances. The device comprises housing base 13 and detachable housing cover 1. A mechanic

Description

1. Field of the Invention The present invention pertains to the domain of user interface mechanisms for domestic and industrial machinery, specifically those employing rotary controls. The invention is a novel adaptive device designed forthe enhancement of conventional, manually operated rotary knobs used in an array of appliances. This innovation falls within the technological fields of automation, Internet of Things (loT), and smart control systems. It has been conceived to bridge the gap between non-automated mechanical controls and contemporary digital automation solutions, offering a means to retrofit existing appliances with smart technology. The invention is particularly relevant in the context of enhancing user interaction with appliances, improving accessibility, and integrating older technology into modern smart environments without necessitating the replacement of functioning equipment. 2. Background of the Invention Many traditional appliances heavily rely on rotary knobs for user interaction. These knobs offer a well-established and functional control method. However, they lack the modern conveniences and flexibility provided by smart home systems, which are becoming increasingly popular. Currently, there are two main approaches to achieve remote and automated control of appliances: 1. Replacing Existing Appliances: This approach involves purchasing entirely new appliances equipped with smart functionalities. While effective, it is a costly and wasteful solution. Functional appliances are discarded solely to gain remote or automated control features. 2. Smart Appliance Overlays: Some existing solutions attempt to address this by offering smart appliance overlays. These overlays are typically bulky and difficult to install, often requiring permanent modifications to the existing appliance. Additionally, their compatibility with various knob designs and functionalities can be limited, solutions that do exist may not offer the refined control expected in today's digital landscape orthe seamless transition between manual and automated operation that users desire. These limitations create a significant need for a more practical and user-friendly solution that bridges the gap between traditional rotary knob controls and the growing demand for smart home integration. The present invention seeks to address these needs by providing an intelligent retrofit device that can be mounted on existing rotary knobs to grant them smart capabilities. This device leverages wireless communication technologies to integrate with modern smart systems and user interfaces. In crafting this invention, attention has been given to the creation of a product that is not only functionally comprehensive but also adaptable to various knob shapes and sizes. The invention embodies a strategic synthesis of mechanical engineering, electronics, and user-centric design, ensuring that it can be universally adopted without the need for specialized tools or knowledge, hence broadening the accessibility and applicability of smart technology to legacy appliances. In a world where energy efficiency and sustainability are increasingly important, the present invention also contributes to the reduction of electronic waste by extending the lifespan of existing appliances. By providing a means to upgrade rather than replace, this device aligns with the growing trend of eco-conscious consumerism and promotes a sustainable approach to home or commercial automation. 3. Summary of the Invention The invention herein presented is a retrofit device designed to provide smart functionality to appliances with manual rotary knobs. This device allows for the remote operation of any rotary-controlled appliance accessible via smartphones or voice-activated smart systems. The invention is distinguished by its universal design, ease of installation, and user-centric operational features. The device comprises a compact and aesthetically designed housing and a base that attaches to the exterior of an appliance without the need for intrusive modifications to the appliance itself. Within this housing is a mechanical interface that secures the device to the rotary knob, which can accommodate a wide range of knob sizes and shapes due to its adjustable clamping mechanism. This allows the device to impart rotational movement to the knob via an internal actuator mechanism, typically a servo motor, which is both powerful and precise. A key component of the invention is the embedded wireless communication module that facilitates remote control. This module receives signals from various sources, such as, mobile applications, WiFi networks, and Bluetooth-enabled devices. The communication protocol is designed to be compatible with prevailing loT standards, ensuring interoperability with a multitude of platforms. It is powered by an onboard power management system comprising of a rechargeable battery. Crucially, the device retains the manual functionality of the knob, offering a manual override feature that ensures uninterrupted usage in scenarios where remote control is either unsuitable or unavailable. This feature is complemented by a feedback loop that records the position of the knob post-manual adjustment, allowing the device to update its operational parameters accordingly. In summary, the invention provides a non-intrusive, universally adaptable, and environmentally conscious solution to retrofit existing appliances for smart functionality. It eliminates the need to replace functioning appliances for the sake of smart integration, thus serving both an economic and ecological purpose. 4. Introduction to the Drawings The invention is illustrated in the accompanying drawings, which provide various views and components of the retrofittable smart device designed for automated control of rotary knobs. Each figure clarifies aspects of the device's design, assembly, and operation. The following detailed drawings and description is exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention in any way. Rather, the following description provides a convenient illustration for implementing exemplary embodiments of the invention. Various changes to the described embodiments may be made in the function and arrangement of the elements described herein without departing from the scope of the invention. Figure 001: Cover page of the drawing package. It gives direction on how the rest of the drawing should be interpreted. Figures 002 to 005: Views of the device attached to a sample oven control panel at a scale of 1:4. These figures show the integration of the device with the appliance's rotary knob without requiring any modifications: Figure 002: Perspective view of the device on the oven control panel. Figure 003: Front view. Figure 004: Side view. Figure 005: Bottom view. Figures 006 to 010: Various views of the device housing alone at a scale of 1:1.5, illustrating the design and form of the enclosure: Figure 006: Top view. Figure 007: Side view. Figure 008: Bottom view. Figure 009: Rear perspective view. Figure 010: Front perspective view. Figure 011: Exploded view of the device at a scale of 1:2, displayingall components and their arrangement; and isometric view of each component separately at various scales. The components are labelled as follows: Item 1: Housing - Cover. Item 2: Cover Knob (Manual Control Knob). Item 3: Main Gear Knob Attachment. Item 4: Knob Connection Plate (Large). Item 5: Knob Connection Plate (Small). Item 6: Gear Connecting Bolts. Item 7: Bevel Spur Gear Composite. Item 8: Bevel Gear Input / Driver. Item 9: Bevel Gear Shaft. Item 10: PCB Board. Item 11: Servo Motor. Item 12: Internal Battery. Item 13: Housing - Base. Item 14: Optional Knob Shaft Add-On. Figures 012 to 016: Detailed views of the Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3): Figure 012: Bottom view. Figure 013: Top view. Figure 014: Side view. Figure 015: Front perspective view. Figure 016: Isometric view showing snap-fit housings (Ref: 01 and Ref: 02). Figures 017 to 023: Multiple views of the Bevel Spur Gear Composite (Item 7) and Bevel Gear Shaft (Item 9): Figures 017-020: Various views of the Bevel Spur Gear Composite. Figures 021-023: Detailed views of the Bevel Gear Shaft. Figures 024-027: Multiple views of Bevel Gear Driver (Item 8). Figure 024: Bottom view. Figure 025: Front perspective view. Figure 026: Top view. Figure 027: Side view. Figures 028 to 035: Views of the Knob Connection Plates (Items 4 and 5): Figures 028-031: Small Knob Connection Plate (Item 5) from different angles. Figures 032-035: Large Knob Connection Plate (Item 4) from various perspectives. Figures 036 to 040: Various views of the Housing - Base (Item 13): Figure 036: Front view. Figure 037: Side view. Figure 038: Rear view showing the flat backside for appliance attachment. Figure 039: Rear isometric view. Figure 040: Front Isometric view highlighting alignment features. Figures 041 to 044: Views of the Housing - Cover (Item 1): Figure 041: Front perspective view, shaded to understand depth. Figure 042: Top view showing the opening for the Cover Knob (Item 2). Figure 043: Side view. Figure 044: Bottom view Figures 045 to 049: Detailed views of the Cover Knob (Item 2) and its snap-fit mechanism: Figure 045: Top view. Figure 046: Top isometric view showing the snap-fit hooks (Ref: 05). Figure 047: Side view. Figure 048: Bottom isometric view. Figure 049: Bottom view. Figures 050 to 053: Views of the Gear Connecting Bolts (Item 6): Figure 050: Top isometric view, shaded to highlight the threaded body. Figure 051: Bottom isometric view. Figure 052: Bottom view. Figure 053: Side view showing universal joint ball end. Figures 054 to 061: Views of the electronic components: Figures 054-056: Internal Battery (Item 12). Figures 057-059: Servo Motor (Item 11). Figures 060-061: PCB Board (Item 10) with communication modules. Figures 062 to 064: Views of the Optional Knob Shaft Add-On (Item 14): Figure 062: Top view, depicting the snap-fit arms. Figure 063: Side view. Figure 064: Top isometric view. Depicting spring clip mechanism (Ref: 06). Figures 065 to 084: Step-by-step illustrations of the installation process: Figures 065 to 068: Aligning and attaching the Housing - Base (Item 13) to the appliance. Figures 069 to 073: Connecting the Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3) to the appliance's rotary knob using the Gear Connecting Bolts (Item 6) and Knob Connection Plates (Items 4 and 5). Figures 074 to 078: Installing the Optional Knob Shaft Add-On (Item 14) if and when necessary. Figure 074 is showing a sample appliance knob shaft which is not part of the device. Figures 079 to 081: Attaching the Cover Knob (Item 2) to the Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3). Figures 082 to 084: Securing the Housing - Cover (Item 1) and completing the assembly. Figure 085: Internal view without the housing, showing the arrangement and connection of all internal components with corresponding item numbers. Figure 086: The fully assembled device including the housing at a scale of 1:1, providing a complete view of the final product. 5. Detailed Description This section provides a comprehensive explanation of the invention, including its components, functionalities, and application. The invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings and components, as enumerated in previous section. The descriptions will utilize the numbering of items (Items 1 to 14) established in the figures to ensure consistency and clarity. 5.1 Housing and Enclosure The housing of the device is comprised of a base and a cover that together encapsulate the internal components. The housing is designed with an opening that aligns with the appliance’s rotary knob. Housing - Base (Item 13): The Housing - Base (Item 13) serves as the foundational structure of the device. It is designed to be securely attached to the surface of the appliance adjacent to the existing rotary knob. The base features a flat backside (Figure 038) that allows for non-invasive attachment methods such as adhesives or double-sided tape. The circular opening of the base aligns with the appliance's rotary knob, facilitating the mechanical connection between the device and the knob. Housing - Cover (Item 1): The Housing - Cover (Item 1) encloses the internal components and attaches to the Housing - Base (Item 13) using snap-fit mechanisms or any other suitable fastening method (Figures 041 to 044). The cover is designed to protect the internal components from dust and moisture while allowing access to the Cover Knob (Item 2) for manual operation. 5.2 Mechanical Interface and Clamping Mechanism The interface mechanism is ingeniously devised to engage with rotary knobs of various shapes and sizes. It employs an adjustable clamping system with multiple contact points, which can conform to the knob's varying geometry. This mechanism ensures a secure and stable connection to transmit the rotational forces from the actuator to the knob without slipping or causing damage. Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3): The Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3) is a crucial component that transfers rotational motion to the appliance's rotary knob (Figures 012 to 016). It features gear teeth on a portion of its outer perimeter, which engage with the Bevel Spur Gear Composite (Item 7). The remaining perimeter includes threaded holes for the Gear Connecting Bolts (Item 6). The inner circumference of the Main Gear has snap-fit housings (Ref: 01 and Ref: 02) to attach the Cover Knob (Item 2) and the Optional Knob Shaft Add-On (Item 14), if necessary. Knob Connection Plates (Items 4 and 5): The Knob Connection Plates come in large (Item 4) and small (Item 5) sizes to accommodate various knob dimensions (Figures 028 to 035). Each plate has a universal joint or ball joint (Ref: 03) on one side and a silicone layer (Ref: 04) on the other. The universal joint allows the plate to adjust to the angle of the knob surface, while the silicone layer ensures a secure, non-invasive grip on the knob of any surface texture. Gear Connecting Bolts (Item 6): The Gear Connecting Bolts (Figures 050 to 053) are threaded cylindrical parts with a universal joint ball on one end. They screw into the threaded holes on the Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3) and connect to the Knob Connection Plates (Items 4 and 5). The bolts can be adjusted to accommodate different knob sizes by threading them in or out of the Main Gear. Optional Knob Shaft Add-On (Item 14): The Optional Knob Shaft Add-On (Item 14) is used when the appliance's rotary knob is missing, damaged, or incompatible (Figures 062 to 064). It attaches directly to the appliance's knob shaft using a friction fit enhanced by a spring clip (Ref: 06). The add-on then connects to the Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3) via snap-fit arms (Ref: 01), allowing the device to control the appliance without the original knob. 5.3 Manual Override An essential feature of the device is the manual override, allowing the user to operate the appliance traditionally. The motor tracks and record the change and new position to adjust its control settings accordingly. The mechanism seamlessly transitions between automatic and manual control, ensuring uninterrupted functionality even in the event of power or connectivity loss. Cover Knob (Item 2): The Cover Knob (Item 2), also referred to as the Manual Control Knob, allows for manual operation of the appliance's rotary knob (Figures 045 to 049). It attaches to the Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3) using a snap-fit mechanism (Ref: 05), engaging with the cradle (Ref: 02) in the Main Gear. This feature ensures that users retain full manual control of the appliance when remote operation is not desired or available. 5.4 Actuator and Power Transmission Within the housing lies the actuator, typically a closed-loop servo motor. The motor is linked to a gear assembly that translates the motor's rotation into the required movement to turn the knob. This gear assembly is optimized to handle the variable torque and rotational speeds necessary for different appliances. Servo Motor (Item 11): The Servo Motor (Item 11) is responsible for driving the gear system. It is a closed-loop motor that provides precise control over the rotational movement of the Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3). The motor is mounted within the Housing - Base (Item 13) and is operatively connected to the Bevel Gear Input / Driver (Item 8). Bevel Gear Input / Driver (Item 8): The Bevel Gear Input / Driver (Item 8) connects directly to the output shaft of the Servo Motor (Item 11) (Figures 024 to 027). It transmits the motor's rotational motion to the Bevel Spur Gear Composite (Item 7) through bevel gear engagement. Bevel Spur Gear Composite (Item 7): This composite gear (Figures 017 to 020) combines bevel and spur gear functionalities. It receives rotational input from the Bevel Gear Input / Driver (Item 8) and transfers it to the Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3). The bevel portion engages with the Bevel Gear Input / Driver, while the spur portion meshes with the gear teeth on the Main Gear. Bevel Gear Shaft (Item 9): The Bevel Gear Shaft (Item 9) secures the Bevel Spur Gear Composite (Item 7) in its designated position, allowing it to rotate smoothly on its axis (Figures 021 to 023). 5.5 Electronics and Power management At the heart of the device is a wireless communication module that connects to a control unit. This module is capable of interfacing with a variety of control signals from smartphones, tablets, or voice-activated systems such as Alexa or Google Assistant. The control unit interprets the signals and translates them into actionable commands forthe actuator, all while managing the device's various operational modes. The module's firmware supports multiple wireless protocols, ensuring broad compatibility and the ability to receive firmware updates wirelessly. This forward-compatibility is a proactive measure to maintain the device's relevance with emerging smart home standards. PCB Board (Item 10): The PCB Board (Item 10) houses the electronic circuitry necessary for wireless communication, control, and power management. It includes modules for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing the device to interface with smartphones, tablets, and voice-activated systems like Alexa and Google Home. Internal Battery (Item 12): The Internal Battery (Item 12) powers the device, including the Servo Motor (Item 11) and PCB Board (Item 10). It is a rechargeable battery that can be charged via an accessible charging port on the Housing - Cover (Item 1). The battery management system ensures safe charging and discharging cycles. 6. Installation Method This section provides a step-by-step guide for installing the retrofit device onto an existing appliance to control the rotary movement of the knob. Refer to Figures 065 to 084 in the accompanying drawings. 6.1 Step 1: Attaching the Housing Base (Figures 065-068) Select a suitable location on the appliance surface adjacent to the existing rotary knob. Align the circular opening of the Housing - Base (Item 13) with the centre of the rotary knob. Attach the Housing - Base to the appliance using a non-invasive attachment method, such as adhesive pads or double-sided tape, ensuring a secure fit without damaging the appliance's surface. The design allows for installation at any angle, accommodating various appliance configurations. The Housing - Base comes pre-fitted with internal components, including the Internal Battery (Item 12), PCB Board (Item 10), Servo Motor (Item 11), and the gear assembly comprising the Bevel Spur Gear Composite (Item 7) and Bevel Gear Input / Driver (Item 8). 6.2 Step 2A: Clamping on to the Appliance Knob (Figures 069-073) Place the Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3) over the appliance's rotary knob. Insert the Gear Connecting Bolts (Item 6) into the threaded holes on the Main Gear. Attach the appropriate Knob Connection Plates—either large (Item 4) or small (Item 5)—to the universal joint ends of the bolts. Adjust the bolts to press the connection plates firmly against the surface of the knob. The universal joints allow the plates to conform to the angle of the knob surface, while the silicone or similar malleable material on the plates' contact surfaces ensures a secure grip without damaging the knob. Typically, three plates are used, positioned around the knob to ensure stability and precise alignment. This clamping mechanism accommodates knobs of various shapes and sizes, provided the knob's diameter is smaller than the inner diameter of the Main Gear Knob Attachment. It is suitable for most traditional knob sizes found in residential and industrial appliances. 6.3 Step 2B: Using the Optional Knob Shaft Add-On (Figures 074-078) If the existing knob is missing, damaged, larger than the Main Gear's inner diameter, or if the user opts to remove it, proceed with this optional step: 1. Remove the existing knob to expose the appliance's knob shaft. 2. Attach the Optional Knob Shaft Add-On (Item 14) directly to the knob shaft. The add-on features a spring clip mechanism (Ref: 06) that provides a friction fit, accommodating shafts of va ry i ng dia meters. 3. Once secured, connect the Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3) to the add-on via the designed snap-fit slots (Ref: 01). This configuration ensures the Main Gear rotates in unison with the knob shaft, replicating the functionality of the original knob. 6.4 Step 3: Installing the Manual Control Knob (Figures 079-081) Attach the Cover Knob (Item 2), also known as the Manual Control Knob, to the front of the Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3) using the snap-fit mechanism: • Align the snap-fit hooks on the Cover Knob (Ref: 05) with the corresponding slots on the Main Gear (Ref: 02). • Press firmly until the knob clicks into place, ensuring a secure attachment. This allows users to manually adjust the appliance's settings by rotating the Cover Knob, which in turn rotates the Main Gear and the appliance's rotary knob or shaft. 6.5 Step 4: Securing the Housing Cover and Finalizing Installation (Figures 082-084) Place the Housing - Cover (Item 1) over the assembly, aligning it with the Housing - Base (Item 13). Secure the cover using the snap-fit features or fasteners provided: • Ensure all internal components are enclosed and that the Cover Knob protrudes through the opening in the Housing - Cover. • Press the cover firmly until it clicks into place, forming a seamless enclosure that protects the internal components from dust and moisture. With the physical installation complete, proceed to set up the electronic and smart functionalities: 1. Charging: If necessary, fully charge the Internal Battery (Item 12) before initial use via the accessible charging port on the Housing - Cover. 2. Software Setup: Download and install the dedicated mobile application on a compatible smart device. 3. Pairing: Follow the application's instructions to pair the retrofit device with the smart device using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity provided by the PCB Board (Item 10). 4. Calibration: Calibrate the device if required, settingthe start and end points of the rotary knob's range of motion. 5. Control: Users can now control their appliance remotely via the mobile application or through voice commands if integrated with virtual assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. The application communicates with the device by sending control signals to the Servo Motor (Item 11). The motor actuates the gear system—including the Bevel Gear Input / Driver (Item 8), Bevel Spur Gear Composite (Item 7), and Main Gear Knob Attachment (Item 3)—which adjusts the position and settings of the appliance's rotary knob accordingly. 7. Advantages of the Invention The present invention provides numerous advantages and improvements over prior art solutions for retrofitting rotary knobs for remote operation. Notable benefits include: 1. Universal Compatibility: The device’s adaptable interface, incorporating adjustable connection platesand a universal joint mechanism, ensures compatibility with a wide variety of rotary knobs, regardless of their size, shape, or rotational direction. The device’s independence from the appliance's existing circuitry further extends its compatibility across a diverse range of models and brands. 2. Non-invasive Installation: The non-invasive retrofitting process preserves the integrity of both the original knob and the appliance. Using adhesive attachments and snap-fit mechanisms, the installation requires no permanent alterations, specialized tools, or professional assistance. 3. Remote Operability: Integration with modern loT ecosystems enables control via a multitude of channels, including smartphones and voice-activated systems like Alexa, providing convenience and accessibility. 4. Manual Override: The manual control knob provides a failsafe mechanism, ensuring continued manual operation in the event of power outages or connectivity issues. This provides an added layer of reliability and peace of mind, distinguishing the invention from solely app-dependent smart home solutions. 5. Durability and Safety: Environmental sealing protects the device from dust and moisture, enabling it to function in both household and industrial environments. A slip clutch mechanism prevents damage by disengaging the motor under excessive torque, ensuring long-term durability. 6. Firmware Upgradability: The device's firmware can be updated to remain compatible with evolving standards and allowing for regular security updates, ensuring long-term usability and value. 7. Ease of Use: The straightforward design ensures that users can install and begin using the device with minimal setup, promoting widespread adoption. 8. Portability: The use of a rechargeable battery eliminates the need for constant power connection and allowing for regular security updates, 9. Scalability: The invention presents a unique opportunity for appliance manufacturers to differentiate their offerings and attract new customers by providing smart home functionality as an optional accessory or add-on. This approach enables manufacturers to stay competitive without needing significant redesigns or costly investments in new product lines. 10. Reduced Environmental Impact: By extending the lifespan of existing appliances, the invention reduces electronic waste and contributes to a more sustainable approach to appliance control. These advantages collectively contribute to a versatile, user-friendly, and forward-compatible solution, creating a compelling and unique value proposition that sets it apart from prior art solutions in the field of automation. 8. Industrial Applicability The present invention has significant industrial applicability, providing a versatile and commercially viable solution for integrating remote control functionality into existing and new appliances. Its universality and ease of installation make it suitable for a wide array of applications across different sectors. Home Automation: The device can be seamlessly integrated into the burgeoning market of smart home technology, enabling remote control for appliances like ovens, radiators, entertainment systems, dimmer switches, ceiling fan capacitors, and other devices with rotary controls, thereby enhancing user convenience and energy management. Healthcare Facilities: In hospitals or care homes, the device can be applied to adjust medical equipment or patient comfort systems remotely or on schedule, reducing the need for physical interaction and enhancing patient care. Commercial Kitchens: The invention can be utilized in commercial kitchen environments, allowing chefs and staff to adjust cooking appliances remotely, streamlining kitchen operations and improving safety. Manufacturing and Industrial Controls: In a manufacturing setting, the abilityto remotely adjust controls on machinery can improve operational efficiency and reduce the need for manual adjustments in hazardous environments. Accessibility Applications: The invention can be adapted for use by individuals with mobility or dexterity limitations, granting them greater independence in controlling their environment. The compatibility with voice activated systemswill also aid people with different abilities. Hospitality Industry: Hotels and other hospitality venues can integrate the device to provide guests with enhanced control overtheir in-room appliances, in addition to hotels commercial laundry and other appliances. Energy Management Systems: By providing businesses with granular control and monitoring capabilities overtheir retrofitted appliances and equipment, the invention enables the implementation of energy optimization strategies, such as load balancing, peak shaving, predictive maintenance and demand response programs. This not only helps businesses reduce their energy costs but also contributes to the broader goals of environmental sustainability and carbon footprint reduction. Product Upgrade During Manufacturing: Manufacturers seeking to introduce remote control capabilities to their products without undertaking significant design changes will find this invention to be an invaluable asset. The device's plug-and-play nature and compatibility with existing appliances position it as an attractive option for both manufacturers and consumers alike. In conclusion, the present invention represents a significant advancement in automation, providing a user-friendly, adaptable, and universally compatible solution for enabling remote and scheduled control of rotary knobs on appliances.

Claims

1. A retrofitted smart device for enabling remote and automated control functionality to an appliance having a manually operable rotary knob, the device comprising:a. a housing base configured to securely attach to a surface proximate to the existing rotary knob without requiring modification to the appliance.b. a housing cover detachably connected to the housing base and configured to enclose internal components of the attachment.c. a mechanical interface designed to form a secure attachment to a variety of rotary knobs of different diameters without altering the original knob structure, in a manner that is independent of the existing knob's size, shape, or rotational direction.d. an actuator mechanism capable of imparting rotational movement to the attached knob with precision and able to track and record manual overriding actions taken by the user in addition to any remote and automated movements.e. a wireless communication and control module embedded within the device configured to send and receive control and status signals from a remote source, including but not limited to mobile devices, Internet of Things (loT) systems and voice-activated smart home systems via standard communication protocols including but not limited to Bluetooth, Wi-Fi etc enabling automated control based on user input or pre-programmed schedules.f. an onboard power management system including a rechargeable power source and associated charging circuitry to facilitate extended periods of operation between charging and providing power to the motorized assembly and communication module.g. a manual override feature allowing for the retention of manual functionality of the rotary knob when remote operation is not required; wherein a manual control knob is detachably connected to the gear system using a snap-fit mechanism to allow manual control by the user.

2. The device of claim 1, further comprising an optional knob shaft add-on component configured for enhanced compatibility with existing rotary knobs by securely attaching directly to the underlying shaft of the existing rotary knob, wherein the knob shaft add-on being operatively connected to the main gear and adaptable to different shaft sizes and configurations.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the housing base includes alignment features or markers to facilitate precise positioning and attachment to the appliance surface relative to the existing rotary knob.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the appliance is any appliance that utilizes rotary knobs for control, encompassing household appliances, commercial appliances, and industrial machinery.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the gear system further comprises a universal joint mechanism to accommodate variations in the alignment between the existing rotary knob and the gear system of the device.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the mechanical interface comprises a slip clutch mechanism that disengages the motorized assembly when a predetermined torque threshold is exceeded during operation, protecting the device from damage.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the communication module is configured to transmit data to a user device, providing real-time information on the status of the appliance control settings.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is configured to remember the position of the knob and adjust the control setting based on user interaction with the manual override feature.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the device incorporates environmental sealing to prevent ingress of particulates and moisture, extending the operability to a range of ambient conditions within household or industrial settings.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the PCB is programmable and updateable via wireless connectivity, allowing for customisation of the device's functionality and long-term compatibility with evolving smart home standards and security protocols.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the housing includes an LED indicator to display battery charging status and notify the user of low power levels.

12. A method for enabling remote and automated control of an existing rotary knob on an appliance using the device of claim 1, the method com prising the steps of:a. selecting a suitable attachment location on the appliance surface proximate to the existing rotary knob.b. securing the housing base of the device to the selected location using a chosen attachment method.c. interfacing the gear system within the attachment with the perimeter of the existing rotary knob.d. adjusting the universal joint mechanism within the gear system to achieve optimal alignment with the existing rotary knob.e. attaching a cover knob with snap-fit mechanism on the main gear ultimately being operably connected to the rotary knob.f. communicating with smart home systems via the PCB board within the attachment to enable automated control based on user input or pre-programmed schedules while retaining the capability for manual operation of the rotary knob through the detachably connected Cover Knob.g. detachably connecting the housing cover to the housing base.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising the step of charging the device using the integrated charging port.

15. operatively connected to the main gear via at least one gear connecting bolt with ball joint or any other joint which will allow for at least 2 degrees of freedom.

16. The method of claim 11, if necessary, further comprising installing a knob shaft add-on to engage with a shaft of the appliance rotary knob the knob shaft add-on being operatively connected to the main gear and adaptable to different shaft sizes and configurations.

17. A system for retrofitting a plurality of rotary knobs on an appliance with devices of claim 1, for enabling remote control, the system comprising:a. a plurality of retrofittable devices according to claim 1, each device being configured to control a respective rotary knob on the appliance; andb. a central control hub configured to communicate with and coordinate the operation of the plurality of retrofittable devices of claiml, the central control hub being operable via a mobile application or an Internet of Things (loT) system.AMENDMENTS TO THE CLAIMS HAVE BEEN FILED AS FOLLOWS:Claims:

1. A retrofitted smart device for enabling remote and automated control functionality to an appliance having a manually operable rotary knob, the device comprising:a. a housing base configured to securely attach to a surface proximate to the existing rotary knob without requiring modification to the appliance.b. a housing cover detachably connected to the housing base and configured to enclose internal components of the attachment.c. a mechanical interface designed to form a secure attachment to a variety of rotary knobs of different diameters without altering the original knob structure, in a manner that is independent of the existing knob's size, shape, or rotational direction.d. an actuator mechanism capable of imparting rotational movement to the attached knob with precision and able to track and record manual overriding actions taken by the user in addition to any remote and automated movements.e. a wireless communication and control module embedded within the device configured to send and receive control and status signals from a remote source, including but not limited to mobile devices, Internet of Things (loT) systems and voice-activated smart home systems via standard communication protocols including but not limited to Bluetooth, Wi-Fi etc enabling automated control based on user input or pre-programmed schedules.f. an onboard power management system including a rechargeable power source and associated charging circuitry to facilitate extended periods of operation between charging and providing power to the motorized assembly and communication module.g. a manual override feature allowing for the retention of manual functionality of the rotary knob when remote operation is not required; wherein a manual control knob is detachably connected to the gear system using a snap-fit mechanism to allow manual control by the user.

2. The device of claim 1, further comprising an optional knob shaft add-on component configured for enhanced compatibility with existing rotary knobs by securely attaching directly to the underlying shaft of the existing rotary knob, wherein the knob shaft add-on being operatively connected to the main gear and adaptable to different shaft sizes and configurations.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the housing base includes alignment features or markers to facilitate precise positioning and attachment to the appliance surface relative to the existing rotary knob.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the appliance is any appliance that utilizes rotary knobs for control, encompassing household appliances, commercial appliances, and industrial machinery.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the gear system further comprises a universal joint mechanism to accommodate variations in the alignment between the existing rotary knob and the gear system of the device.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the mechanical interface comprises a slip clutch mechanism that disengages the motorized assembly when a predetermined torque threshold is exceeded during operation, protecting the device from damage.

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the communication module is configured to transmit data to a user device, providing real-time information on the status of the appliance control settings.

8. The device of claim 1, wherein the device is configured to remember the position of the knob and adjust the control setting based on user interaction with the manual override feature.

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the device incorporates environmental sealing to prevent ingress of particulates and moisture, extending the operability to a range of ambient conditions within household or industrial settings.

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the PCB is programmable and updateable via wireless connectivity, allowing for customisation of the device's functionality and long-term compatibility with evolving smart home standards and security protocols.

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the housing includes an LED indicator to display battery charging status and notify the user of low power levels.

12. A method for enabling remote and automated control of an existing rotary knob on an appliance using the device of claim 1, the method com prising the steps of:a. selecting a suitable attachment location on the appliance surface proximate to the existing rotary knob.b. securing the housing base of the device to the selected location using a chosen attachment method.c. interfacing the gear system within the attachment with the perimeter of the existing rotary knob.d. adjusting the universal joint mechanism within the gear system to achieve optimal alignment with the existing rotary knob.e. attaching a cover knob with snap-fit mechanism on the main gear ultimately being operably connected to the rotary knob.f. communicating with smart home systems via the PCB board within the attachment to enable automated control based on user input or pre-programmed schedules while retaining the capability for manual operation of the rotary knob through the detachably connected Cover Knob.g. detachably connecting the housing cover to the housing base.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising the step of charging the device using the integrated charging port.

15. operatively connected to the main gear via at least one gear connecting bolt with ball joint or any other joint which will allow for at least 2 degrees of freedom.

16. The method of claim 11, if necessary, further comprising installing a knob shaft add-on to engage with a shaft of the appliance rotary knob the knob shaft add-on being operatively connected to the main gear and adaptable to different shaft sizes and configurations.

17. A system for retrofitting a plurality of rotary knobs on an appliance with devices of claim 1, for enabling remote control, the system comprising:a. a plurality of retrofittable devices according to claim 1, each device being configured to control a respective rotary knob on the appliance; andb. a central control hub configured to communicate with and coordinate the operation of the plurality of retrofittable devices of claiml, the central control hub being operable via a mobile application or an Internet of Things (loT) system.

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