Improvements in and relating to switches

Abstract

A multi-modal primary switch 10, such as a wall mounted dimmer switch for lighting devices, provides the capability to operate in different modes depending upon the set-up of associated hardware (e.g.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a switch, an assembly including a switch and a method of switching an electrical circuit. In particular, the present invention relates to a smart dimmer switch, an assembly including a smart dimmer switch and a method of providing a dimmer switch in an electrical circuit. BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION Conventional dimmer switches enable the brightness of non-smart light bulbs or a number of non-smart light bulbs to be manually adjusted. Such dimmer switches generally comprise a rotatable knob which is rotated a first direction to increase the brightness and the second direction to decrease the brightness. The rotatable knob may first be pressed to activate the power and, similarly, pressed again to turn the power off. Smart bulbs are lighting devices (e.g. LED light bulbs) which can be controlled wirelessly via a remote control unit such as a smart phone. The smart bulbs may receive the control signals from a smart hub which receives the signals from a smart phone. For example, the smart phone acts as a convenient way for a user to control the smart bulbs. Alternatively or additionally, the user may control the smart bulbs from a PC / laptop etc. or other connected device with the control signals being sent via the smart hub. Such smart bulbs include a control device in communication with the remote unit (e.g. smart hub) and this enables the user to remotely adjust the brightness and potentially vary the colour too. Such smart bulbs generally require a fixed power supply and the control device within the smart bulb adjusts the brightness / colour in reaction to the received control signals. Smart bulbs may therefore not be suitable for use in being controlled by a conventional rotary dimmer switch and may not function correctly. Accordingly, to be able to remotely control the lighting either smart bulbs are used or a manual dimmer switch must be installed and used. Smart dimmer switches are now available and these enable the smart dimmer switch to be in communication with a remote unit in order for the power in a lighting circuit to be adjusted. Accordingly, this can be used to allow non-smart bulbs in the associated lighting circuit to be controlled. In particular, if the lighting circuit includes a number of light bulbs, then this enables the lighting level to be controlled remotely without having to swap every non-smart light bulb for a smart light bulb to provide this remote adjusting functionality. The replacement of a number of non-smart light bulbs with smart light bulbs would be wasteful and expensive. In this scenario, smart switches cant typically only vary the brightness and the control the on / off state, as non-smart bulbs do not typically have the potential of colour variation. However, such smart dimmer switches have limitations and, especially if it is required within a two-way circuit. In such a circuit, a user wants or requires two separate dimmer switches to control the lighting circuit. However, in this situation, the second switch must be a retractive / push switch. In particular, normal on / off switches may not be suitable and retractive switches may not be desirable. In addition, a user may want smart bulbs in the lighting circuit connected to the dimmer switch. The mixing of smart or standard dimmer switches with smart bulbs does not function correctly. In particular, a smart bulb requires constant power and this power should not be altered by a dimmer switch on the lighting circuit. Furthermore, dimmer switches fixed to a wall and connected to a lighting circuit are constrained for use with that specific lighting circuit. Accordingly, if a user wanted to use the dimmer switch elsewhere then the dimmer switch would need removing and re-installing at the required location. Alternatively, a user would have to purchase and install a further dimmer switch for use in the alternative location. It is an aim of the present invention to overcome at least one problem associated with the prior art whether referred to herein or otherwise. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a primary switch comprising: a wireless transmitter, a wireless receiver, a power input for an electric circuit, a power output for the electric circuit, a manually operable variable control device, and a power management device for varying the power between the power input and the power output, wherein the primary switch has a normal mode of operation and an auxiliary mode of operation, the primary switch further comprising selection means to select between the normal mode of operation and the auxiliary mode of operation, wherein: the normal mode of operation comprises the primary switch being in communication with a companion unit wherein both the primary switch and the companion unit comprise manually operable variable control devices for varying the power of the electric circuit; and the auxiliary mode of operation comprises the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch being controllingly unconnected relative to the electric circuit such that the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch communicates with the wireless transmitter to transmit control signals wirelessly. Preferably the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch is manually operable to generate a control signal. The control signals may be arranged to change a characteristic of a device. The control signal may directly control the power through the electric circuit. The manually operable variable control device of the companion unit may be manually operable to generate a control signal control which may similarly control the power in this electric circuit such that both the primary switch and the companion unit control the power in the electric circuit. The control signal generated by the manually operable variable control device may be communicated to a hub. The control signal may be transmitted wirelessly to a hub by the wireless transmitter. The hub may then communicate the control signal to an ancillary smart device. The hub may (also) communicate a control signal to the wireless receiver of the primary switch in order to control the power of the electric circuit. The control signal generated by the manually operable variable control device may be directly (though wires) communicated and control the power through the electric circuit. The control signal generated by the manually operable variable control device may be transmitted (at least for a part) wirelessly. The control signal may be transmitted to a hub and may control an ancillary device. The ancillary device may be a smart device to receive the control signals wirelessly. The ancillary device may be located within the electric circuit passing through the primary switch or the ancillary device may be located within an unconnected (remote) circuit. The power in the electric circuit may be controlled by control signals which do not originate from the primary switch. The control signal may be generated by a user (e.g. by user operated device) and wirelessly communicated from a hub to the wireless receiver of the primary switch in order to control the electric circuit. The control signal generated by the manually operable variable control device may be (wirelessly) communicated via the wireless transmitter to a hub and may control an ancillary device (smart device) which is wirelessly communicating with the hub. The control signal generated by the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch may be either directly communicated to the electric circuit passing or wirelessly communicated to a hub. From the hub, the control signal may be wirelessly communicated to an ancillary device. The control signal generated by a user elsewhere (e.g. by user operated device) may be communicated by the hub to the primary switch via the wireless receiver in order to control (the power in) the electric circuit. Preferably, in the normal mode of operation, the manually operable variable control devices transmit control signals (solely / exclusively) through wired connections (to the power management device). Preferably, in the auxiliary mode of operation, control signals originating from the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch are transmitted (at least for a part) wirelessly. Preferably the normal mode of operation comprises a normal dimmer (mode of operation). Preferably in the normal mode of operation the companion unit is wired to the primary switch in order for a manually operable variable control device of the companion unit to vary the power supply of the electric circuit. Preferably in the normal mode of operation the companion unit is wired to the primary switch in order for a manually operable variable control device of the companion unit to vary the power supply of the electric circuit in addition to (and / or at the same time / contemporaneously / interchangeably / intermittently / alternately with) the electric circuit being also controlled by the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch. Preferably in the normal mode of operation the power input and the power output are wired to the electric (lighting) circuit. Preferably the primary switch comprises a single normal mode of operation and a plurality of auxiliary modes of operation. The primary switch may comprise two auxiliary modes of operation. Preferably in the normal mode of operation the power input (terminal) and the power output (terminal) are connected to the electric circuit. In the normal mode of operation, the power input and the power output may be connected to a lighting circuit. In the normal mode of operation, the power input and the power output may be connected to a lighting circuit which includes one or more non-smart lights. Preferably the auxiliary mode of operation comprises a remote mode of operation wherein: the primary switch is in communication with a hub in order to transmit control signals from the manually operable variable control device to a smart ancillary device. In the remote mode of operation the primary switch (preferably the power input and the power output) may be connected within a mains supply circuit (or electric (power) supply circuit) or a lighting circuit. The mains supply circuit is solely for supplying electric power and does not include controlled devices thereon and the main supply circuit passes through the primary switch and is unaffected and unvaried by the power management device. The mains supply circuit may form a bypass circuit. The smart ancillary device(s) may locate on the electric circuit which is connected through the power input and the power output of the primary switch. Preferably the auxiliary mode of operation comprises a dual purpose mode (of operation) wherein: the operation of the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch is decoupled from the power management device and in which the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch is arranged to control an ancillary device and wherein a hub is in communication with the primary switch (preferably the wireless receiver) in order to transmit a control signal to the power management device to control the power supply between the power input and the power output for the electric circuit. In the dual purpose mode and / or in the remote mode, the companion unit may be disconnected from (and / or unconnected to) the primary switch. Preferably in the dual purpose mode the electric circuit comprises one or more nonsmart devices (for example lights) which are controlled through the action of the hub. Preferably in the dual purpose mode, the manually operable variable control device controls a remote smart device (or devices). Preferably in the dual purpose mode the power input and the power output are connected to the electric circuit. In the dual purpose mode, the power input and the power output may be connected to a lighting circuit which may comprise non-smart lights. Preferably in the dual purpose mode (for smart devices), the electric circuit comprises one or more smart devices (for example lights) which are controlled through the action of the primary switch. Preferably in the dual purpose mode (for smart devices) the manually operable variable control device controls a smart device (or devices) with the control signals being routed through the hub. The smart devices may (also) be controlled by an ancillary remote control device, for example a smart phone with associated control signals being routed through the smart hub. Preferably the primary switch comprises a multimodal switch comprising three modes of operation which may comprise the normal mode of operation and two auxiliary modes of operation. The primary switch may be in communication with a plurality of companion units wherein the primary switch and each companion unit comprises a manually operable variable control device for varying the power supply to the electric circuit. Preferably the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch comprises a rotary actuator and the manually operable variable control device of the or each companion unit comprises a rotary actuator. Preferably each rotary actuator is freely rotatable wherein, rotation in a first direction causes an increase in a characteristic of control signal, and rotation in a second opposite direction causes a decrease in a characteristic of a control signal; and wherein each actuator is freely (endlessly / infinitely) rotatable and unrestricted (unlimited) such that each actuator continues to be freely rotatable following the characteristic reaching a maximum level and / or reaching a minimum level. Preferably the wireless transmitter comprises a Zigbee transmitter and the wireless receiver comprises a Zigbee receiver. The manually operable variable control device of the primary switch may set a primary level for the power supply to the electric circuit and the primary switch is in communication with the companion unit such that the primary level sets a base level for the power supply which is variable through operation of the manually operable control device of the companion unit. Preferably the electric circuit comprises a lighting circuit and wherein the manually operable variable control devices of both the primary switch and the companion unit are rotatable to vary the power supply to the lighting circuit. A lighting device may be connected within the lighting circuit and wherein the lighting device comprises a non-smart light and wherein a brightness of the non-smart light is variable by rotating the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch or by rotating the manually operable variable control device of the companion unit. The electric circuit may comprise a lighting circuit and a lighting device is connected within the lighting circuit and wherein the lighting device comprises a smart light and a characteristic of the smart light is controlled by rotating the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch. The lighting circuit may comprise a plurality of smart lights in the lighting circuit, the remote control unit comprise a selection means in order for a user to select one or more smart lights to be controlled by rotating the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch. An election means (which may be provided by a remote control device, for example smart phone, laptop, PC, bespoke controller or other device with a user interface) may provide toggles to enable a user to individually select the smart lights within the lighting circuit in order to select or deselect each of the lighting devices such that the primary switch only controls the selected lighting devices. The smart light may comprise a smart light bulb or smart light strip. The characteristic of the or each smart light may comprise one or more of: brightness; colour; white balance. The electric circuit may comprise an accessory (or a plurality of accessories) located (hardwired) in the electric circuit and wherein the primary switch is arranged to vary a characteristic of the or each accessory. The or each (smart) accessory may comprise one or more of: a loud speaker; a motor; a heating / cooling appliance; a home automation device; an appliance control device; an occupancy aware device; an intruder detector; a detector (for example, smoke, carbon monoxide, fire detector); a camera a lock. Preferably the primary switch is connectable in a mains supply circuit and the power output remains unconnected from any (lighting) circuit, and wherein rotation of the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch provides control signals to an ancillary device through the remote control unit. The ancillary device may comprise a smart appliance within a home automation system and preferably the smart appliance is provided in a remote electric circuit (e.g. remote / spaced from / separate to the primary switch). The ancillary device may comprise one or more of: a loud speaker; a motor; a heating / cooling appliance; a home automation device; an appliance control device; an occupancy aware device; an intruder detector; a detector (for example, smoke, carbon monoxide, fire detector); a camera a lock. The hub may be in communication with a user operated device which is preferably wirelessly in communication with the hub. The user operated device may comprise one (or more) of the following: a smart phone; a laptop; a computer; a (bespoke) control unit. The primary switch may be configurable to create one (a single) device in a smart system, and wherein the device comprises: a lighting circuit to which the primary switch is connected; or a smart device (e.g. ancillary device or accessory). The smart device may locate in an unconnected electric circuit (and / or may be battery powered) or may locate in the electric circuit with a constant power supply passing through the primary switch. The primary switch may be configurable to create two devices within a smart system comprising: a lighting circuit to which the primary switch is connected; and a smart device (e.g. ancillary device or accessory). The smart device may locate in an unconnected electric circuit (and / or may be battery powered) or may locate in the electric circuit with a constant power supply passing through the primary switch. The primary switch may comprise an inner module and a housing. The housing may comprise a front plate and a rear box. Preferably the rear box is arranged, in use, to be installed within a wall. The front plate may be secured to the rear box to define a containing space within which the inner module may be secured and contained. The inner module may comprise a rotary actuator. The inner module may comprise a shaft which his arranged to project through the front plate and may enable a knob to be secured thereto. The inner module may comprise electronic components to provide the control / dimming function and may vary the electric power supply in the electric circuit. The inner module may comprise the wireless transmitter and the wireless receiver. The inner module may comprise the power management device. The companion unit may comprise an inner module and a housing. The housing may comprise a front plate and a rear box. Preferably the rear box is arranged, in use, to be installed within a wall. The front plate may be secured to the rear box to define a containing space within which the inner module may be secured and contained. The inner module may comprise a rotary actuator. The inner module may comprise a shaft which his arranged to project through the front plate and may enable a knob to be secured thereto. The inner module may comprise electronic components to provide the control / dimming function and may vary the electric power supply in the electric circuit and this control may be made via the inner module being in (wired) communication with the inner module of the primary switch. The inner module may comprise a first terminal (power input / live) and a second terminal (power output / switched live). The inner module may comprise a third terminal which may be optionally connected to a wire which connects the primary switch to a terminal of the or each companion unit. The third terminals on the primary switch and the or each companion unit may be arranged to communicate control signals from the companion unit to the electric circuit being controlled and preferably via / through the primary switch and the associated power management device). The manually operable variable control device may provide the selection means. The primary switch may comprise indicator means. The indicator means may comprise a light which may illuminate from a front face of the primary switch. The light may comprise an LED. The light may be arranged to be illuminated with different colours and each colour may indicate a different mode of operation. The manually operable variable control device may be actuated to manually scroll through the different modes of operation and may enable a user to individually select the desired mode of operation. Preferably the mode of operation is set on the primary switch prior to the primary switch being paired with the hub. The mode of operation may be changed and this change may require the primary switch to be paired again with the hub. The mode of operation is solely set (and selected) through the operation of the primary switch and more preferably through the operation of the manually variable control device of the primary switch. According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a home automation system comprising a primary switch and a companion unit and a hub, the primary switch being in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention. The home automation system may comprise a lighting circuit with a plurality of nonsmart lights wherein: rotation of the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch varies a characteristic of the non-smart lights; and rotation of the manually operable variable control device of the companion unit varies a characteristic of the non-smart lights. The home automation system may comprise a lighting circuit with a plurality of smart lights wherein rotation of the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch varies a characteristic of an ancillary smart device. The home automation system may comprise primary control signals which are (wirelessly) transmitted from the primary switch to the hub and secondary control signals are then (wirelessly) communicated to the ancillary device. According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of controlling the power supply within an electric circuit, the method comprising rotating a manually operable variable control device, the primary switch comprising: a wireless transmitter, a wireless receiver, a power input, a power output, and a power management device for varying the power between the power input and the power output, wherein the primary switch has a normal mode of operation and an auxiliary mode of operation, the primary switch further comprising selection means to select between the normal mode of operation and the auxiliary mode of operation wherein: the normal mode of operation comprises the primary switch being in communication with a companion unit wherein both the primary switch and the companion unit comprise manually operable variable control devices for varying the power supply to an electric circuit; and the auxiliary mode of operation comprises the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch communicates with the wireless transmitter to transmit control signal wirelessly, wherein the method comprises selecting the mode of operation using the selection means. Preferably the primary switch comprises a multimodal switch providing three modes of operation, the first mode comprising the normal mode; the second mode comprising a remote mode of operation wherein: the primary switch is in communication with the hub in order to transmit control signals from the hub to an ancillary device; and the third mode comprising a dual purpose mode (of operation) wherein: the operation of the manually operable variable control device is decoupled from the power management device and in which the manually operable variable control device is arranged to control an ancillary device and wherein a hub is in communication with the primary switch in order to transmit a control signal to the power management device (preferably via the wireless receiver) to control the power supply between the power input and the power output for the electric circuit. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings that follow, in which: Figure 1 is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment of a primary switch in a normal mode of operation with a companion unit and a non-smart bulb within an electric circuit; Figure 2 is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment of a primary switch in a remote mode of operation with a smart bulb within an electric circuit being controlled by the primary switch; Figure 3 is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment of a primary switch in a remote mode of operation with the primary switch controlling a smart ancillary device; Figure 4 is a schematic view of a preferred embodiment of a primary switch in a dual purpose mode of operation with the primary switch controlling a smart device and a non-smart bulb within an electric circuit being controlled by a remote device; Figure 5 is a schematic circuit diagram for a preferred embodiment of a primary switch; Figure 6 is a schematic circuit diagram for a preferred embodiment of a primary switch in a first mode of operation with a companion unit and a non-smart bulb within an electric circuit; and Figure 7 is a schematic circuit diagram for a preferred embodiment of a primary switch in a first mode of operation with two companion units and a non-smart bulb within an electric circuit. DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention provides a smart dimmer switch for use in controlling electric circuits and / or auxiliary / ancillary devices. In particular, the present invention relates to a primary switch which may control the dimming of a non-smart light (bulb) within an electric circuit and where this dimming functionality can also be controlled by a companion unit. This functionality provides the primary switch with a first mode (or a normal mode) of operation. The non-smart light (bulb) can be dimmed by either a manual control knob on the primary switch or a manual control knob on the companion unit. Specifically, in the present invention, the companion unit is directly connected to the primary switch such that both the primary switch and the companion unit can be used interchangeably to adjust the dimming of the same light bulb within the same electric circuit. Accordingly, dual manual dimming switches are provided for the same (non-smart) light (bulb). Both switches can be used interchangeably and seamlessly. The term smart is used to refer to a device which is (wirelessly) connected to a network and / or other devices. In the preferred embodiments of the present invention, Zigbee is used to provide a wireless protocol for the network. The term endpoint is used to refer to a remote physical (or virtual) device connected to a network. A non-smart device (or dumb device) in contrast to a smart device is not (wirelessly) connected to and controlled (directly) through a network and / or other devices. However, it will be appreciated that such non-smart devices may be ultimately controlled through a network by using further smart apparatus and control systems. The present invention provides a multi-modal primary switch which additionally provides the capability to operate in different modes depending upon the set-up of the hardware (e.g. connected smart and / or non-smart lights, electrical accessories / appliances / ancillary devices / auxiliary devices) and the user’s requirements. This therefore enables the hardware to be changed without having to change the associated operating switch(es). Accordingly, a user has the flexibility to interchangeably use smart lights or non-smart lighting without losing functionality. Such systems can both be controlled by a system incorporating the primary switch(es) of the present invention and the removal and replacement of switch units is not required. The provision of switches that are easy to remove and replace without damaging the walls is therefore no longer a significant and primary consideration for a user. For example, a user does not have to install such switches in a location which may facilitate the easy removal and replacement at a later date which may be inevitable with conventional switches which need upgrading as the home hardware is updated. Similarly, a user with pre-existing non-smart lights can simply decide to install a primary switch in accordance with the present invention and to upgrade the lights to smart lights at a later date. This enables a user to only install the primary switch once and the user does not need to change this switch as and when the lighting system (or other hardware) is changed and / or upgraded from non-smart functionality to smart capability. Furthermore, the present invention facilitates the addition of extra devices within the system and, again, minimises the disruption and the necessity of upgrading the associated switches. As will be described, the primary switch may include some redundant hardware and functionality in some modes of operation. This provides the present invention with seemingly too much capability but the advantages of the extra potential functionality by enabling certain features is significantly beneficial. For example, the user no longer has to upgrade (select, locate and purchase) the switch(es) and the user no longer has to arrange the re-installation of new switches which can create problems, particularly in modem minimalist residential properties which may have clean colours and finishes. Furthermore, the present invention enables the modes to be selected and changed instantaneously such that the primary switch and the associated home automation system can be continuously adapted by the user(s) with no periods of down time (non-operational periods) for the lights / appliances / devices. This may be important where certain devices need to maintain communication with the home automation system and a loss of communication may create problems, for example, in burglar alarm systems. The changing of switches also requires the user to pair the replacement switch which can be problematic and may introduce some downtime and loss of communication in the system. The change of a switch may also require the lights / appliance / device to reset such that the set up procedure may need to be repeated in order to restore the preferred parameters. The preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a smart dimmer switch is which is configured to have three different modes. In particular, the primary switch is a multimodal switch comprising three modes of operation. The first mode or normal mode enables a non-smart light bulb to be dimmed by either the primary switch and / or a companion unit as briefly described above. The primary switch also provides an auxiliary mode of operation in which the manually operable variable control device is controllingly unconnected relative to the electric circuit such that the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch communicates with the wireless transmitter to transmit control signal wirelessly (rather than adjusting the power for the electric circuit to which it may be wired via the power input and the power output and power management device). In the preferred embodiment, the primary switch has two auxiliary modes of operation which will be described as the second and third modes of operation. It will be appreciated, that some embodiments of the present invention comprise two of these modes and the preferred embodiments comprise three modes of operation. As mentioned above, the first mode of operation is a normal mode (Figure 1) in which the primary switch 10 and the companion unit 20 can both control and dim a light in the electric circuit. In this mode, the switches 10, 20 operate like normal switches with the capability for 2-way rotary dimming control (plus smart control provided by a remote hub 55). In the normal mode, the primary switch 10 is wired to the electric (lighting) circuit. The system creates a single device (a dimmable light). The primary switch 10 directly controls the light circuit. The primary switch 10 is paired with the home automation system (e.g. home hub 55) and creates a primary device for smart control in an app, for example “light with dimming capabilities”. Accordingly, the physical rotary knob 12 controls the lighting circuit and the rotary knob 12 is also synchronised to the primary smart control in the app. In this mode, it is not possible to create a secondary device for smart control in the app (in addition to the primary device). The primary switch 10 transmits signals to the hub 55, to ensure that the smart device is in sync with the physical device. For example, if the lights are turned off with the knob, then the smart device (Endpoint 01) reflects the state accordingly. Accordingly, this communication enables the smart device to know and present the on / off status and dimming level (e.g. 50%). The smart device in the smart system reflects these changes made by either primary switch 10 / companion unit 20. The manually operable variable control devices 12, 22 are arranged to directly control the dimmable light 30. In this mode, a virtual device on EndPointOI is also programmed to control the dimmable light 30. As mentioned above, the companion unit 20 is wired to the primary switch 10 and changes on the companion unit 20 are transmitted to the primary switch 10 via this wired connection (central terminal on each switch 10, 20). This causes the primary switch 10 to change accordingly, and these changes are subsequently transmitted to the hub 55 so it stays in sync. There are no wireless transmissions to or from the companion unit 20. The second mode of operation is a remote mode of operation (Figure 2 and Figure 3) in which, again, the physical rotary knob 12 does not control any circuit through physical wires. In this mode of operation there are two potential configurations. In the first configuration (Figure 2), an electric (lighting) circuit passes through the primary switch 10 and this electric circuit is constantly powered. Accordingly there is no physical or smart control of the actual power in this circuit, i.e. the power passes unhindered through the primary switch and is never altered or varied. In the second configuration (Figure 3), a dummy load is provided to the primary switch 10 and there are no functional devices located on the electric circuit passing through the primary switch. Accordingly, there is no control of an electric circuit by either by physical rotary knob 12 or by any smart controls. The electric circuit may comprise a mains electric circuit / bypass circuit. In both configurations of the remote mode, the system creates a smart device which the rotary knob 12 controls (using Zigbee). The primary switch 10 is wired to the electric (lighting) circuit to provide constant power, for example for use with smart bulbs (first configuration, Figure 2). Alternatively, mains power is provided and there is no lighting circuit (second configuration, Figure 3). The manually operable variable control device 12 is arranged to control the virtual device on EndPoint02, which can subsequently be programmed to control an ancillary device 60 / smart bulb 32. The system creates a single device and the primary switch 10 does not control any lighting circuit. The action of the rotary knob 12 is decoupled from any lighting circuit. The action of the rotary knob 12 is synchronised with the secondary device (there is no primary device created in this mode). The rotary knob 12 is then used in the smart system to control a device 32, 60, for example, smart bulbs, volume controls, dimmable lamps, curtains etc. The pairing of the primary switch 10 with the home hub 55 creates the secondary device for smart control, without any primary device. The control works with step up and step down commands as well as with a single press, double press, and long press / hold etc.. In this mode, the user has the ability to control different devices with the rotary knob 12, using automation in the smart system, for example smart bulbs 32. The primary switch 10 is in communication with the hub 55 in order to transmit control signals from the control device to a smart device, for example a light bulb 32 which may be located within the electric circuit (first configuration). Accordingly, the physical (wall mounted) primary switch 10 may be actually controlling the operation of a smart bulb 32 within the electric circuit to which a constant power runs through the power input 40 and the power output 42. The remote mode of operation also enables the primary switch 12 to be actually disconnected from controlling the power through the (mains circuit) electrical circuit (second configuration). The primary switch 10 is in communication with the smart hub 55 in order to transmit control signals from the smart hub 55 to an ancillary device 60. The third mode of operation is a dual purpose mode of operation (Figure 4). In this mode of operation, the manually operable variable control device 12 is decoupled from the power management device 14. The manually operable variable control device 12 is arranged to control the virtual device on EndPoint02, which can subsequently be programmed to control an ancillary device 60 / smart bulb. A smart hub 55 is in communication with the primary switch in order to transmit a control signal to the power management device 14 to control the power supply between the power input 40 and the power output 42 for the electric circuit (and a device 30 therein). This enables a non-smart bulb 30 to be controlled by the remote unit 55, 50 via the primary switch 10 and, separately, for the primary switch 10 to control an ancillary device 60 (e.g. a loud speaker system). The manually operable variable control device 12 is arranged to control the virtual device on EndPoint02, which can subsequently be programmed to control an ancillary device 60. In addition, in this mode, a virtual device on EndPointOI is also programmed to control the (non-smart) dimmable light 30. In the dual purpose mode, the physical control of the rotary knob 12 is separated from the lighting circuit. The system creates a virtual smart device (EndPointOI) representing a lighting circuit which is controlled only through smart devices 55, 50 (e.g. using Zigbee). The hub 55 can control the light circuit (or other devices) and this may be achieved via the user operated device 50. The hub 55 may be controlling the power management device 14. In this mode, the device 30 is controlled by smart commands sent from from the hub 55 to the switch 10. The system also creates a smart device which is controlled by the action of the rotary knob 12. Again, this may be controlled through Zigbee. In the dual purpose mode, the primary switch 10 is wired to the electric (lighting) circuit. The system creates two devices (a dimmable light and a remote device). The primary switch 10 is paired with the hub 55 and creates a primary device for smart control in the app, for example “light with dimming capabilities”. The home automation system (rather than the physical rotary knob 12) controls the lighting circuit and, specifically, non-smart bulbs 30 in the lighting circuit are controlled. This mode creates a secondary device for control by the rotary knob 12 of the primary switch 10. The rotary knob 12 is decoupled from the electric (lighting) circuit such that the rotary knob 12 does not control the lighting circuit. The rotary knob 12 is synchronised with the secondary smart device 60 via commands communicated through the hub 55. Accordingly, the rotary knob 12 can be used in the smart system to control smart bulbs, volume controls, dimmable lamps, curtains etc. The pairing of the primary switch 10 with the home hub 55 creates the secondary device for smart control, in addition to the primary device. The control works with step up and step down commands as well as with a single press. In use, the dual purpose mode may be used when a user wants to control their normal lighting circuit (which contains non-smart bulbs 30) through smart controls only (e.g. “dimmable light” in the app). In addition, the user has the capability to control different devices 60 with the rotary knob 12. The above provides an overview of the various modes and further details will now be provided. In preferred embodiments a user operated device 50 (e.g. a smart phone / laptop / PC / computer / bespoke control device) is in communication with the smart hub 55. In this way, using smart controls, the user can control the light circuit and / or an auxiliary device using a remote control device 50, or more directly at the smart hub 55 (via the remote control device 50). The primary switch 10 provides a smart dimmer switch including a manually operable variable control device 12. The manually operable variable control device 12 is a small rotatable knob. In preferred embodiments, the manually operable variable control device 12 comprises a rotary actuator wherein the rotation in a first direction causes an increase in a characteristic of a control signal and a rotation in a second direction causes a decrease in a characteristic of a control signal. The rotary actuator is configured to be freely rotatable and unrestricted. In particular, the rotatable knob can be feely rotated in both directions and there are no limits. The knob is configured to either adjust the signal upwardly or downwardly depending on the direction of travel. The upper and lower levels of this limit are not set or controlled by the turning distance such that the knob is not blocked for turning once either the maximum or minimum limit has been reached. This functionality is controlled separately from the turning limits which, as mentioned above, are unlimited. The smart dimmer switch (primary switch 10 in Figure 1) comprises a power input 40 and a power output 42. The smart dimmer switch comprises a power management device 14, which is configured to vary the power supply between the power input and the power output. The rotatable knob 12 is directly connected to the power management device 14 such that the rotation of the knob adjusts the power delivered through the power management device 14. The smart dimmer switch 10 comprises a wireless transmitter 16 which is configured to transmit control signals to a smart hub 55. In the first mode of operation as shown in Figure 1, this wireless transmitter 16 may be used to pair the primary switch with the hub 55 to create the system. The smart dimmer switch 10 also comprises a wireless receiver 18 which is configured to receive control signals from the smart hub 55. The primary switch 10 is synchronised with an app accessed through the hub 55. The primary (dimmer) switch 10 is configured to control the power supply to the electric circuit of the non-smart bulb 30. The primary dimmer switch 10 is configured to be in communication with at least one companion unit 20. In some configurations, a plurality of companion units 20 may be in communication with the primary switch 10. Figure 5 shows a schematic wiring diagram for the primary switch alone whereas Figure 6 and Figure 7 show schematic wiring diagrams for the primary switch 10 with one or two companion units 20 respectively. As mentioned above, the primary switch 10 comprises a manually operable variable control device 12, a power management device 14, a wireless transmitter 16 and a wireless receiver 18. The primary switch 10 also comprises a power input 40 and a power output 42. The primary switch 10 can be in communication with the companion unit 20 wherein the action of the manually operable variable control device 22 of the companion unit 20 is in communication with the manually operable variable control device 12 of the primary switch 10. The manually operable variable control device 12 is in communication with the power management device 14 which is configured to vary the power supplied from the power input 40 to the power output 42. In preferred embodiments, the manually operable variable control device 22 of the or each companion unit 20 comprises a rotary actuator (e.g. rotatable knob). The electric circuit is connected to the power output 42 wherein the changes made by the power management device 14 are reflected in the electric circuit. In the preferred embodiments, the electric circuit comprises a lighting circuit with one or more light bulbs. The electric circuit may comprise an accessory (or a plurality of accessories) located (hardwired) in the electric circuit and wherein the primary switch 10 is arranged to vary a characteristic of the or each accessory. The or each accessory may comprise one or more of: a loud speaker; a motor (e.g. a servo motor); a heating / cooling appliance; a home automation device; an appliance control device; an occupancy aware device; an intruder detector (e.g. burglar alarm sensor / detector); a detector (for example, smoke, carbon monoxide, fire detector); a camera, a lock. In such situations, a relevant characteristic of the accessory is controlled, e.g. volume of a speaker. In some modes of operation, the lighting circuit includes non-smart light bulbs. The brightness of the non-smart light bulb is variable based on the switch or rotation of the manually operable variable control devices 12, 22. Alternatively, in some modes of operation including smart bulbs, another characteristic of the light bulbs may be varied, for example the colour, white balance etc. The primary switch 10 may be in communication with a plurality of companion units 20 wherein the primary switch 10 and the companion units 20 each comprise a manually operable variable control device 12, 22 (rotary actuators) for varying the power supply to the electric circuit. The mode of operation is set on the primary switch 10 prior to the primary switch 10 being paired with the remote device / smart hub 55. The mode of operation may be changed and this change may require the primary switch 10 to be paired again with the remote device / smart hub 55. The mode of operation is solely set (and selected) through the operation of the primary switch 10 and specifically through the operation of the rotatable knob 12 of the primary switch 10. This thereby provides the selection means for selecting the mode of operation. For example, the rotatable knob 12 may be pressed (and held for a length of time) to enter a selecting phase. Subsequent rotation (or pressing) of the knob 12 may scroll though the different modes of operation until the desired mode is reached. The user can then select and set this mode of operation. The primary switch 10 includes an LED or a number of LEDs to assist with this operation and to indicate and distinguish the different modes and / or the phase, for example the pairing phase or the selecting phase or the operating phase. The method of resetting and / or selecting the mode of operation may comprise the following: press X number of times for a reset; press A times for Dimmer Mode; or press X number of times for a reset; press B times for Remote Mode; or press X number of times for a reset; press C times for Dual Purpose Mode. In preferred embodiments, the primary (dimmer) switch 10 is synchronised (paired) with the smart hub 55. Depending on the mode of operation selected by the user, an amount of smart ‘devices’ are created within a smart home system. In the first mode of operation, only one device is created within the smart system. The device created is a light. This ‘device’ is configured to be able to control the lighting circuit. Therefore, the physical action of the rotatable knob 12 is synchronised with the ‘device’ which has been created within the smart system. The user can control the lighting circuit from the primary dimmer switch 10, any one of the companion units 20 and the ‘device’ which has been created in the smart system, for example any number of connected user controlled devices (e.g. smart phone, laptop, PC, bespoke unit) may also control the lighting circuit. The user can also use the smart hub 55 to control the lighting circuit by using voice controls received by a connected smart speaker or the like, when the user controlled device 50 is in communication with the smart hub 55. A shown in Figure 5, Figure 6 and Figure 7, the overall system can be wired to allow more than one dimmer switch to be present, using a live wire 70 and switched live wire 72. Figure 5 shows how the primary switch 10 is wired. Figure 6 shows how a primary switch 10 and one companion unit 20 are wired. Figure 7 shows how a primary switch 10 and two companion units 20 can be wired. The primary switch 10 comprise an inner module and a housing which includes a front plate and a rear box (for example, a junction box) / switch box. The rear box is arranged, in use, to be installed within a wall and is generally recessed into the wall. Accordingly, once installed, this rear box may be problematic to replace without generally requiring further remedial work. The front plate may be simply secured to the rear box by screws or the like (or a push fit / snap fit arrangement) to define a containing space within which the inner module may be secured and contained. The present invention may be suitable for use with standard sizes of rear junction boxes / light switch boxes. The inner module includes the rotary actuator and provides a rotatable shaft which his arranged to project through the front plate and enables the knob to be secured thereto. The inner module includes the electronic components to provide the control / dimming function and vary the electric power supply in the electric circuit. In addition, the inner module includes the wireless transmitter, the wireless receiver and the power management device. The companion unit 20 is similar to the primary switch 10. In particular, externally, the companion unit 20 is arranged to be aesthetically the same as the primary switch 10. The primary switch 10 and the companion unit 20 comprise terminals for the required associated wires to be connected thereto. As described, some of these terminals may remain unconnected / empty / unused depending upon the mode of operation. In the first (normal) mode, a user may install more than one dimmer switch controlling one electrical circuit, where in only one master switch is present and each subsequent switch is a companion. In this mode, a user is also able to use smart controls to control non-smart (dumb) light bulbs. In the second mode shown in Figure 2 and Figure 3, the primary switch 10 has a remote mode of operation. In this embodiment, the electric circuit may comprise one or more smart light bulbs 32 (first configuration, Figure 2) or a dummy circuit (bypass circuit) is provided (second configuration, Figure 3). In the first configuration of the second mode, the primary switch 10 maintains a constant and unadjusted power supply through the primary switch 10 to the electric circuit containing the smart light bulb(s) 32. The primary switch 10 is in communication with the hub 55. The manually operable variable control device 12 is in communication with wireless transmitter 16. The changes made to the manually operable variable control device 12 are reflected in a control signal transmitted from wireless transmitter 16 to the hub 55. The hub 55 is in communication with smart bulb 32 on the electric circuit. Therefore, changes made to the manually operable variable control device 12 is reflected by the smart bulb 32. In this embodiment, the electric circuit comprises a lighting circuit which is comprised of one or more smart light bulbs 32. The user can select a characteristic of a smart bulb 32 to be controlled by primary switch 10, for example brightness or colour, via an automation control in the smart hub 55. In this mode, the hub 55 comprises a selection means in order for a user to select one or more smart bulbs 32 to be controlled by rotating the manually operable variable control device 12. In the second mode of operation, only one device is created in the smart system. This is a ‘remote’ which is able to control the lighting circuit which comprises smart light bulbs 32. This second mode may be useful for a user who wants to be able to control a characteristic of a smart bulb 32 via the physical dimmer switch 10. In addition, this mode may be useful for someone who wants to be able to control a smart bulb 32 with the physical switch 10 and a smart system. This is usually an issue because smart bulbs 32 require constant power, therefore if a wall switch is off, the lighting circuit is also off, and the smart bulb 32 is no longer controllable by the smart system. Accordingly, this mode allows the user to have full control at the primary (light) switch 10 and also full control via the smart system. In addition, in this second mode (remote mode) a second configuration is possible in which the primary (dimmer) switch 10 may be connected with a mains circuit via a live wire, and the primary (dimmer) switch 10 is disconnected from controlling the power of this circuit (wire) such that the power output of the primary switch 10 is not connected to a lighting circuit but a bypass circuit is provided. The primary switch 10 is in communication with the hub 55 in order to transmit control signals via the hub 55 to the ancillary device 60. In this mode of operation it is essential that a bypass is installed on the electrical circuit. In this mode, the manually operable variable control device 12 is in communication with the wireless transmitter 16. The wireless transmitter 16 can transmit a control signal to the hub 55. The hub 55 can transmit a control signal to the ancillary device 60 based on the motion of the manually operable variable control device 12. This remote mode of the present invention may be useful to someone who does not have a smart bulb wired to a lighting circuit, but perhaps a smart bulb in a lamp. This allows the lamp to be controlled by the action of the smart dimmer switch (primary switch 10). This mode may also be relevant to a user who would like to control other auxiliary devices via a smart switch. In this remote mode of operation only one device is created in the smart system. The device created is a ‘remote’ which is configured to control a characteristic of the auxiliary device 60. The physical turning of the knob 12 does not change the power of a circuit passing through the primary switch 10 and the ancillary / auxiliary device are not located on such a circuit. The dimmer switch 10 transmits a control signal via the wireless transmitter 16 which is received by the smart hub 55. The smart hub 55 is configured to transmit a control signal to the auxiliary / ancillary device 60. Therefore the changes made on the dimmer switch 10 are reflected on the auxiliary / ancillary device 60. The remote mode of operation thereby has two different configurations as described above. In the first, the primary switch 10 is wired to a lighting circuit. In the second configuration the primary switch 10 is not wired to the lighting circuit (although it could be wired to the live of the mains circuit and a bypass circuit is created). In the third mode shown in Figure 4, the primary switch 10 has a dual purpose mode of operation. The operation of the manually operable variable control device 12 is decoupled from the power management device 14. The manually operable variable control device 12 is in communication with an ancillary device 60 via a hub 55. The ancillary device 60 could be a smart speaker, lamp with a smart bulb, smart thermostat or the like. A user remote control device 50 is in communication with a smart hub 55, which can communicate with the power management device 14. The user remote control device 50 could be a smart phone, a smart phone app or the like which communicates with the smart hub 55. The smart hub may be a smart home system, a home automation hub, or the like. The manually operable variable control device 12 is in communication with the wireless transmitter 16. In the preferred embodiments, the wireless transmitter 16 comprises a Zigbee transmitter. In this embodiment, the control of the manually operable variable control device 12 communicates with the wireless transmitter 16 wherein the wireless transmitter 16 can transmit a control signal to a smart hub 55. The control signal is based on the action on the manually operable variable control device 12. The control signal received by the smart hub 55 is subsequently transmitted to the ancillary device 60 wherein the action on the manually operable variable control device 12 is reflected in a change in the ancillary device 60. The power management device 14 is in communication with wireless receiver 18. In the preferred embodiments, the wireless receiver 18 comprises a Zigbee receiver. In the third mode of operation, two devices are created in the smart system. The first ‘device’ which has been created in the smart system is the ‘light’. The user can therefore control the lighting circuit by using smart controls. The second device created in the smart system is a ‘remote’ or ancillary device. The ‘remote’ controls the ancillary / auxiliary device. Therefore, in the second or third mode of operation, the ancillary device can be controlled via the rotatable knob 12. The wireless receiver 18 is in communication with the hub 55. A change can be made on the hub 55 and / or a smart phone 50. Subsequently, the hub 55 can transmit a control signal to the wireless receiver 18. The wireless receiver 18 is in communication with power management device 14, wherein the action of the remote control device 50 is reflected in the electric circuit. The third mode may be useful for a user who wants to have their lighting circuit, containing dumb bulbs 30 (non-smart devices), controlled completely on their smart system. In addition, the second mode enables a user to control an ancillary (auxiliary) device 60 from a physical smart dimmer switch 10 rather than manually from the auxiliary device or from a smart home system. The present invention can exhibit three different modes of operation based on the requirements of the user. The single primary switch 10 can be manufactured and this single device provides all of the three modes without the problems and time / costs involved with producing three different switches depending on the final use of the switch. In addition, the ability to change between three different modes of operation, enables a user to only purchase a single switch 10 which can then be installed and used as initially required. However, the mode of operation can be changed at any time such that a new switch does not have to be bought and installed simply due to a change in functionality. In particular, such switches are generally hardwired into a main circuit and also the physical switches are usually permanently mounted to a wall. Any physical removal of a switch which is required to change the mode on offer, inevitably causes issues with the installation, for example the electrical work required and the making good of any physical damage during the installation. In addition, different switches may be provided as different sizes so it is generally not easy to simply remove and replace a wall switch in order to offer a different node of operation. Furthermore, the present invention provides the ability to change between modes instantaneously without any rewiring or similar complications. In preferred embodiments each mode of the dimmer switch has an LED colour which indicates which mode the switch is in. In summary, the rotary control knob 12 of the primary switch 10 generates control signals. These control signals may change a characteristic of a device, e.g. brightness of a light, volume of a speaker etc. These control signals may directly control the power through the electric circuit. This occurs in the first mode. In addition, control signals generated by the rotary knob 22 of the companion unit 20 similarly control the power in this electric circuit. Accordingly, both the primary switch 10 and the companion unit 20 control the power and, for example, the brightness of the bulbs 30 located in this circuit. In other modes, the control signals generated by the rotary knob 12 are communicated to a hub 55, for example, these control signals are transmitted wirelessly to a hub 55 by the transmitter 16. The hub 55 may then communicate these control signals to a device 32, 60 (ancillary smart device). Finally, the hub 55 may also communicate control signals to the (wireless receiver 18) of the primary switch 10 in order to control the power of the electric circuit. As mentioned above, the primary switch 10 provides three different modes of operation. In the first mode (normal mode), only EndPointOI is used. The control signals generated by the rotary knob 12 are directly (though wires) communicated and control the power through the electric circuit. In the second mode (remote mode), the control signals from the rotary knob 12 are transmitted (at least for a part) wirelessly. In particular, the control signals are transmitted to the hub 55 and control an ancillary device 32, 60. In this second mode, only EndPoint02 is used. This ancillary device 32, 60 may be a smart device to receive the control signals wirelessly. This ancillary device 32 may be located within the electric circuit passing through the primary switch 10 (first configuration) or the ancillary device 60 may be located within an unconnected (remote) circuit (as in the second configuration). In the third mode of operation (dual purpose mode), both EndPointOI and EndPoint02 are used. The electric circuit passing through the primary switch 10 is controlled by control signals which do not originate from the primary switch 10 (i.e. not from the rotary knob 12). In particular, these control signals are generated by a user ((e.g. by user operated device 50) and wirelessly communicated from the hub 55 to the receiver 18 of the primary switch 10 in order to control the electric circuit. The control signals generated by the rotary knob 12 are (wirelessly) communicated via the transmitter 16 to the hub 55 and control an ancillary device 60 (smart device) which is wirelessly communicating with the hub 55. In summary, control signals generated by the rotary knob 12 of the primary switch 10 are either directly communicated to the electric circuit passing or are wirelessly communicated to a hub 55. From the hub 55, these control signals may be wirelessly communicated to an ancillary device 60. In addition, control signals generated by a user elsewhere (e.g. user operated device 50) may be communicated by the hub 55 to the primary switch 10 via the receiver 18 in order to control the electric circuit. As described above, and for clarity purposes, the device 50 (phone, laptop, some other remote etc), only bears an impact on the switch in: • Dimmer mode - the device 50 can control (via the hub) the dimming capabilities of the switch connected to the circuit; • Remote mode - no impact. The device 50 cannot control the virtual device created, and any commands from device 50 to hub 55 and subsequently ancillary device 60, are irrespective of the switch; and • Dual Purpose Mode - the device 50 can control (via the hub 55) the dimming capabilities of the switch connected to the circuit (basically the same as dimming mode). The present invention aims to solve the issues related to dimmer switches and smart dimmer switches. The invention can be compatible with non-smart (dumb) light bulbs and smart light bulbs. Furthermore the present invention is compatible with other auxiliary devices. The invention is suitable for consumers with a wide range of potential needs regarding a smart dimmer switch.

Claims

1. A primary switch comprising:a wireless transmitter,a wireless receiver,a power input for an electric circuit,a power output for the electric circuit,a manually operable variable control device, anda power management device for varying the power between the power input and the power output,wherein the primary switch has a normal mode of operation and an auxiliary mode of operation, the primary switch further comprising selection means to select between the normal mode of operation and the auxiliary mode of operation, wherein:the normal mode of operation comprises the primary switch being in communication with a companion unit wherein both the primary switch and the companion unit comprise manually operable variable control devices for varying the power of the electric circuit; andthe auxiliary mode of operation comprises the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch being controllingly unconnected relative to the electric circuit such that the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch communicates with the wireless transmitter to transmit control signals wirelessly.

2. A primary switch according to Claim 1 in which, in the normal mode of operation, the manually operable variable control devices transmit control signals solely through wired connections to the power management device and, in the auxiliary mode of operation, control signals originating from the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch are transmitted wirelessly.

3. Aa primary switch according to Claim 1 or Claim 2 in which, in the normal mode of operation the companion unit is wired to the primary switch in order for a manually operable variable control device of the companion unit to vary the powersupply of the electric circuit in addition to the electric circuit being also controlled by the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch.

4. A primary switch according to any preceding claim in which, in the normal mode of operation, the power input and the power output are connected to the electric circuit and wherein the power input and the power output are connected to a lighting circuit which includes one or more non-smart lights.

5. A primary switch according to any preceding claim in which the auxiliary mode of operation comprises a remote mode of operation wherein:the primary switch is in communication with a hub in order to transmit control signals from the manually operable variable control device to a smart ancillary device.

6. A primary switch according to Claim 5 in which the smart ancillary device locates on the electric circuit which is connected through the power input and the power output of the primary switch.

7. A primary switch according to Claim 5 in which, in the remote mode of operation, the primary switch is connected within a mains supply circuit solely for supplying electric power and does not include controlled devices thereon and the main supply circuit passes through the primary switch and is unaffected and unvaried by the power management device.

8. A primary switch according to any preceding claim in which the auxiliary mode of operation comprises a dual purpose mode of operation wherein:the operation of the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch is decoupled from the power management device and in which the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch is arranged to control an ancillary device and wherein a hub is in communication with the primary switch in order to transmit a control signal to the power management device to control the power supply between the power input and the power output for the electric circuit.

9. A primary switch according to Claim 8 in which, in the dual purpose mode the electric circuit comprise one or more non-smart devices which are controlled through the action of the hub and the manually operable variable control device controls a remote smart device.

10. A primary switch according to any preceding claim in which the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch comprises a rotary actuator and the manually operable variable control device of the or each companion unit comprises a rotary actuator.

11. A primary switch according to Claim 10 in which each rotary actuator is freely rotatable wherein,rotation in a first direction causes an increase in a characteristic of control signal, androtation in a second opposite direction causes a decrease in a characteristic of a control signal;and wherein each actuator is freely rotatable and unrestricted such that each actuator continues to be freely rotatable following the characteristic reaching a maximum level and / or reaching a minimum level.

12. A primary switch according to any preceding claim in which the wireless transmitter comprises a Zigbee transmitter and the wireless receiver comprises a Zigbee receiver.

13. A primary switch according to any preceding claim in which the electric circuit comprises a lighting circuit and wherein the manually operable variable control devices of both the primary switch and the companion unit are rotatable to vary the power supply to the lighting circuit.

14. A primary switch according to any preceding claim in which the primaryswitch is configurable to create a single device in a smart system, and wherein the device comprises:a lighting circuit to which the primary switch is connected; or a smart device.

15. A primary switch according to any preceding claim in which the primary switch is configurable to create two devices within a smart system comprising:a lighting circuit to which the primary switch is connected; and a smart device.

16. A primary switch according to Claim 14 or Claim 15 in which the smart device locates in one of the following:an unconnected electric circuit; orin the electric circuit with a constant power supply passing through the primary switch.

17. A primary switch according to any preceding claim in which the manually operable variable control device provides the selection means.

18. A primary switch according to any preceding claim in which the mode of operation is set on the primary switch prior to the primary switch being paired with the hub and wherein the mode of operation is changeable and this change requires the primary switch to be paired again with the hub.

19. A primary switch according to any preceding claim in which the mode of operation is solely set and selected through the operation of the manually variable control device of the primary switch.

20. A home automation system comprising a primary switch and a companion unit and a hub, the primary switch being in accordance with any one of Claim 1 to Claim 19.

21. A home automation system according to Claim 20 in which the home automation system comprises a lighting circuit with a plurality of non-smart lights wherein:rotation of the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch varies a characteristic of the non-smart lights; androtation of the manually operable variable control device of the companion unit varies a characteristic of the non-smart lights.

22. A home automation system according to Claim 20 in which the home automation system comprises a lighting circuit with a plurality of smart lights wherein rotation of the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch varies a characteristic of an ancillary smart device.

23. A method of controlling the power supply within an electric circuit, the method comprising rotating a manually operable variable control device, the primary switch comprising:a wireless transmitter,a wireless receiver,a power input,a power output, anda power management device for varying the power between the power input and the power output,wherein the primary switch has a normal mode of operation and an auxiliary mode of operation, the primary switch further comprising selection means to select between the normal mode of operation and the auxiliary mode of operation wherein:the normal mode of operation comprises the primary switch being in communication with a companion unit wherein both the primary switch and the companion unit comprise manually operable variable control devices for varying the power supply to an electric circuit; andthe auxiliary mode of operation comprises the manually operable variable control device of the primary switch communicates with the wireless transmitter to transmit control signal wirelessly,wherein the method comprises selecting the mode of operation using the selection means.

24. A method of controlling the power supply within an electric circuit according to Claim 23 in which the primary switch comprises a multimodal switch providing three modes of operation,the first mode comprising the normal mode;the second mode comprising a remote mode of operation wherein:the primary switch is in communication with the hub in order to transmit control signals from the hub to an ancillary device; andthe third mode comprising a dual purpose mode of operation wherein:the operation of the manually operable variable control device is decoupled from the power management device and in which the manually operable variable control device is arranged to control an ancillary device and wherein a hub is in communication with the primary switch in order to transmit a control signal to the power management device (preferably via the wireless receiver) to control the power supply between the power input and the power output for the electric circuit.s

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