An improved operating panel for a switch assembly

Abstract

A switch assembly (100) including switch unit (102) and at least one operating panel (202), is disclosed. The at least one operating panel (202) is adapted to be supported on the switch unit (102). The at least one operating panel (202) includes a base member (302), and a plurality of side walls (304). The plurality of side walls (304) is formed at a periphery of the base member (302) and extended towards the switch unit (202). The plurality of side walls (304) includes a protruded portion (308) having a first side (308a) and a second side (308b). A top end (308c) is defined between intersecting edges of the first side (308a) and the second side (308b) and adapted to dampen noise when the at least one operating panel (102) is operated in a plurality of directions.

Description

AN IMPROVED OPERATING PANEL FOR A SWITCH ASSEMBLYFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a switch assembly. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an improved operating panel of the switch assembly.BACKGROUND

[0002] Commonly, electrical switches are employed for operating a wide range of appliances by controlling a flow of current to such appliances. In particular, the electrical switches are employed in electrical circuits to divert or interrupt the flow of current toward the appliances, thereby switching ON or switching OFF such appliances.

[0003] Currently, an existing switch assembly includes an operating panel, a rocker, a housing, etc. The operating panel is adapted to be pivotally moved relative to the housing, upon applying a pushing force on the operating panel. The operating panel is adapted to be pressed / pushed to move the rocker of the switch assembly. The rocker is adapted to be pivotally moved to operate the switch assembly in an ON-state and an OFF-state.

[0004] However, the existing configuration of the switch assembly has limitations, that, when the operating panel is pressed by a user to operate the switch assembly from the ON state to the OFF state (contact-making condition) and vice versa (contact-breaking condition), there is a possibility that the operating panel travel a long distance. Further, the operating panel establishes direct contact with an edge of the rocker. This configuration results in the generation of noise while operating the operating panel. Thus, this configuration increases discomfort for the user.

[0005] Hence, in view of the above, it is desirable to develop a configuration of the switch assembly which eliminates the above-mentioned problem while ensuring the safety of the user.SUMMARY

[0006] This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts, in a simplified format, that are further described in the detailed description of the invention. This summary is neither intended to identify key or essential inventive concepts of the invention and nor is it intended for determining the scope of the invention.

[0007] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a switch assembly is disclosed. The switch assembly includes switch unit and at least one operating panel. The at least one operating panel is adapted to be supported on the switch unit. The at least one operating panel includes a base member and a plurality of side walls. The base member is adapted to be supported on the switch unit of the switch assembly. The plurality of side walls is formed at a periphery ofthe base member and extended towards the switch unit with respect to the base member. The plurality of side walls includes a protruded portion. The protruded portion includes a first side and a second side. The first side and the second side are formed such that a top end is defined between intersecting edges of the first side and the second side and adapted to dampen noise when the at least one operating panel is operated in a plurality of directions.

[0008] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

[0010] Figure 1 illustrates an assembled view of a switch assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figures 2A and 2B illustrate an exploded view of the switch assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 3 illustrates a front view of the switch assembly with replaceable static panel, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 4 illustrates a front view of the switch assembly with replaced static panel, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of at least one operating panel of the switch assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0015] Figures 6A and 6B illustrate an operation of the at least one operating panel in a plurality of directions, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figures 7A and 7B illustrate different exploded views of the switch assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 7C illustrates a cut section of the switch assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of a cover strip of the switch assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 9 illustrates a front view of the cover strip, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 10 illustrates a side view of the cover strip, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 11 illustrates a rear view of the cover strip, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 12 illustrates a side view of the cover strip, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 13 illustrates a front-perspective view of a mounting plate of the switch assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 14 illustrates a rear-perspective view of the mounting plate of the switch assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 15 illustrates an exploded view of the mounting plate coupled with a mounting platform of the switch assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0026] Figure 16 illustrates a front view of the mounting plate coupled with the mounting platform of the switch assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0027] Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, a plurality of components of the device may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having benefit of the description herein.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

[0028] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated system, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skilled in the art to which invention belongs. The system and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0029] For example, the term “some” as used herein may be understood as “none” or “one” or “more than one” or “all.” Therefore, the terms “none,” “one,” “more than one,” “more than one, but not all” or “all” would fall under the definition of “some.” It should be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that the terminology and structure employed herein is for describing, teaching, and illuminating some embodiments and their specific features and elements and therefore, should not be construed to limit, restrict, or reduce the spirit and scope of the present disclosure in any way.

[0030] For example, any terms used herein such as, “includes,” “comprises,” “has,” “consists,” and similar grammatical variants do not specify an exact limitation or restriction, and certainly do not exclude the possible addition of a plurality of features or elements, unless otherwise stated. Further, such terms must not be taken to exclude the possible removal of the plurality of the listed features and elements, unless otherwise stated, for example, by using the limiting language including, but not limited to, “must comprise” or “needs to include.”

[0031] Whether or not a certain feature or element was limited to being used only once, it may still be referred to as “plurality of features” or “plurality of elements” or “at least one feature” or “at least one element.” Furthermore, the use of the terms “plurality of’ or “at least one” feature or element do not preclude there being none of that feature or element, unless otherwise specified by limiting language including, but not limited to, “there needs to be plurality of...” or “plurality of elements is required.”

[0032] Unless otherwise defined, all terms and especially any technical and / or scientific terms, used herein may be taken to have the same meaning as commonly understood by a person ordinarily skilled in the art.

[0033] Reference is made herein to some “embodiments.” It should be understood that an embodiment is an example of a possible implementation of any features and / or elements of the present disclosure. Some embodiments have been described for the purpose of explaining plurality of the potential ways in which the specific features and / or elements of the proposed disclosure fulfil the requirements of uniqueness, utility, and non-obviousness.

[0034] Use of the phrases and / or terms including, but not limited to, “a first embodiment,” “a further embodiment,” “an alternate embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “multiple embodiments,” “some embodiments,” “other embodiments,” “further embodiment”, “furthermore embodiment”, “additional embodiment” or other variants thereof do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments. Unless otherwise specified, plurality of particular features and / or elements described in connection with plurality of embodiments may be found in one embodiment, or may be found in more than one embodiment, or may befound in all embodiments, or may be found in no embodiments. Although plurality of features and / or elements may be described herein in the context of only a single embodiment, or in the context of more than one embodiment, or in the context of all embodiments, the features and / or elements may instead be provided separately or in any appropriate combination or not at all. Conversely, any features and / or elements described in the context of separate embodiments may alternatively be realized as existing together in the context of a single embodiment.

[0035] Any particular and all details set forth herein are used in the context of some embodiments and therefore should not necessarily be taken as limiting factors to the proposed disclosure.

[0036] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] Figure 1 illustrates an assembled view of a switch assembly 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Figures 2A and 2B illustrate an exploded view of the switch assembly 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0038] The present disclosure discloses the switch assembly 100 which may be employed in houses, corporate buildings and similar premises for operating various electronic devices and electrical appliances, such as household appliances, laptops, computers etc. Further, the switch assembly 100 may be employed to switch ON and / or switch OFF an operation of the electrical appliances or electronic devices. The switch assembly 100 may be adapted to be mounted on an installation surface, for example, a wall, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0039] Referring to Figures 1 to 2 A and 2B, the switch assembly 100 may include, but is not limited to, a plurality of switch unit 202 and a plurality of operating panel 102 for the plurality of switch unit 202. In an embodiment, the switch unit 202 may be supported on a mounting plate 208, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the operating panel 102 may be supported on the switch unit 202. Further, the plurality of operating panel 102 may be attached to the mounting plate 208. In an embodiment, a plurality of cover strips 104 may be disposed on the mounting plate 208 adjacent to the operating panel 102. Further, the plurality of cover strips 104 may be disposed on the mounting plate 208 such that the cover stripes 104 adapted to cover an area adjacent to the operating panel 102 ensuring the safety of a user.

[0040] The operating panel 102 may be embodied in a rectangular shape, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In another embodiment, the operating panel 102 maybe embodied in any other shape, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Details of a single operating panel 102 will be described later.

[0041] In an embodiment, there may be scenarios where the switch unit 202 is not required or not present in the switch assembly 100. In such scenarios, a static panel may be placed in place of the operating panel. An exemplary embodiment is explained with respect to Figures 3 and 4. Figure 3 illustrates a front view of the switch assembly with replaceable static panel 103 whereas Figure 4 illustrates a front view of the switch assembly with replaced static panel, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] In an embodiment, the switch assembly 100 the plurality of switch unit 202 coupled to the mounting plate 208, and operating panel 102 adapted to be removably supported on the switch unit 202. In such embodiment, the operating panel 102 is adapted to be moved to operate the at least one rocker between an ON state and an OFF state. If the switch unit 202 is inactive, then the at least one of operating panel 102 corresponding to the switch unit 202 is removed and replaced by a static panel 103. The static panel 103 may be adapted to be coupled to the mounting plate 208, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0043] In an embodiment, a first operating panel 102a is supported on a first switch unit 202a and a second operating panel 102b is supported on a second switch unit 202b. In such embodiment, the first switch unit 202a corresponding to the first operating panel 102a is active and the second switch unit 202b corresponding to the second operative panel 102b is inactive. The second operating panel 102b is removed and replaced with the static panel 103.

[0044] In another embodiment, the first switch unit 202a corresponding to the first operating panel 102a is inactive and the second switch unit 202b corresponding to the second operative panel 102b is active. The first operating panel 102b is removed and replaced with the static panel 103. The static panel 103 not only enhances the aesthetics of the switch assembly 100 but also prevent ingress of dust into the switch assembly 100. Moreover, the static panel 103 does not allow the inadvertent access into the switch assembly 100, such by children.

[0045] Details of the operating panel 102 will now be discussed. Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of at least one operating panel of the switch assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Further, Figures 6A and 6B illustrate an operation of the at least one operating panel in a plurality of directions, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] In an embodiment, the operating panel 102 may include, but is not limited to, a base member 302, a plurality of side walls 304, and a plurality of edge walls 306. The base member 302 may be adapted to be supported on the switch unit 202. The base member 202 includesan upper portion 302a and a lower portion 302b. Further, the plurality of edge walls 306 may be adapted to be extended towards the switch unit 202 from the upper portion 302a and the lower portion 302b.

[0047] In an embodiment, the plurality of side walls 304 may be formed at a periphery of the base member 302. The plurality of side walls 304 may be in contact with the plurality of edge walls 306 and the base member 302. The plurality of side walls 304 may be extended towards the switch unit 202. In an embodiment, the plurality of side walls 304 may include a depressed portion 310 adjacent to the cut-out portion 304a, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The depressed portion 310 may have a predefined profile, where the predefined profile may be a curved-shaped profile, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The depressed portion 310 defined in the plurality of side walls 304 may facilitate in soft movement of the operating panel 102 and provides for quieter operation of the switch assembly 100.

[0048] In an embodiment, the plurality of side walls 304 may include a protruded portion 308. The protruded portion 308 may be formed at a periphery of the plurality of side walls 304. the protruded portion 308 may be formed at a predetermined angle A with respect to the plurality of side walls 304. Further, the predetermined angle A may be in a range from 5 degrees to 10 degrees, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In such embodiment, the protruded portion 308 may include a first side 308a and a second side 308b. The first side 308a and the second side 308b may be disposed at the predetermined angle A, with respect to the plurality of side walls 304. Further, the first side 308a and the second side 308b may have a predetermined length L. The predetermined length L of the first side 308a and the second side increases gradually towards a centre BB’.

[0049] Further, the first side 308a may be oppositely inclined with respect to the second side 308b. The first side 308a and the second side 308b may be formed such that a top end 308c may be defined between intersecting edges of the first side 308a and the second 308b. In an embodiment, the top end 308c may be defined at the centre BB’ of the switch assembly 100. Further, the top end 308c may be formed opposite to the base member 302. The top end 308c may be extended towards the switch unit 202 from the periphery of the plurality of side walls 304. Further, the protruded portion 308 may be adapted to dampen noise in the switch assembly 100, when the operating panel 102 may be adapted to operate in a plurality of positions.

[0050] The operation of the protruded portion 308 to dampen the noise in the switch assembly 100 is explained in subsequent paragraphs in conjunction with Figures 6A-6B. Figures 6A-6B illustrate an operation of the at least operating panel 102 in a plurality of directions, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.In an embodiment, the operating panel 102 may be adapted to be pushed / pressed to move in a downward direction with respect to the installation surface. Further, the operating panel 102 may be adapted to pivotally move with respect to the mounting plate 208 in the plurality of directions to actuate the switch unit 202. The actuation of the switch unit 202 results in the operation of the switch assembly 100 in one of the ON state and the OFF state.

[0051] In such embodiment, when the operating panel 102 may operate in at least one direction from the plurality of directions to actuate the switch unit 202, the second side 308b and the top end 308c may be adapted to rest on a surface of the switch unit 202 to dampen the noise in the switch assembly 100. Particularly, this configuration eliminates direct contact between an edge of the switch unit 202 and a body of the operating panel 102, during the operation of the operating panel 102. Further, this configuration also reduces the travel time of the operating panel 102 towards the switch unit 202. Therefore, this configuration ensures the dampening of the noise generated during the operation of the operating panel 102.

[0052] Further, when the operating panel 102 may operate in another direction from the plurality of directions to actuate the switch unit 202, the first side 308a and the top end 308c adapted to rest on the surface of the switch unit 202 to dampen the noise in the switch assembly 100. Particularly, this configuration eliminates direct contact between the edge of the switch unit 202 and the body of operating panel 102, during the operation of the operating panel 102. Further, this configuration also reduces travel time of the operating panel 102 towards the switch unit 202. Therefore, this configuration ensures the dampening of the noise generated during the operation of the operating panel 102.

[0053] A manner in which the operating panel 102 coupled to the switch unit 102 is now explained with respect to Figures 7A to 7C. Specifically, Figures 7A and 7B illustrate different exploded views of the switch assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Further, Figure 7C illustrates a cut section of the switch assembly, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] In an embodiment, the operating panel 102 may include a base member 222, a plurality of side walls 224, a plurality of edge walls 226, and a plurality of mounting members 212. In an embodiment, the plurality of side walls 224 may be formed at a periphery of the base member 222. The plurality of side walls 224 may be extended towards the switch unit 202.

[0055] In an embodiment, the plurality of edge walls 226 may be extended from the base member 222 towards the switch unit 202, from the base member 222. In such embodiment,the base member 222 includes an upper portion 222a and a lower portion 222b. Further, the plurality of edge walls 206 may be adapted to be extended orthogonally from the upper portion 222a and the lower portion 222b of the base member 222.

[0056] In an embodiment, the base member 222 may be adapted to be supported on the switch unit 202. In such embodiment, the base member 222 may be attached to the switch unit 202 with the plurality of mounting members 212, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0057] In an embodiment, the plurality of mounting members 212 may be disposed in an enclosure 214 defined at a rear surface of the base member 222. The plurality of mounting members 212 may be adapted to be attached to the switch unit 202 such that the operating panel 102 may be attached to the switch unit 202. In such embodiment, the plurality of mounting members 212 may include a pair of first mounting members 212-1, 212-3, and a second mounting member 212-2. Each first mounting member 212-1, 212-3 may be adapted to be disposed opposite to each other.

[0058] In an embodiment, the pair of first mounting members 212-1, 212-3 may include a lower mounting member 212-1 and an upper mounting member 212-3. The lower mounting member 212-1 may be disposed towards the lower portion 222b of the base member 222 and away from a center AA’ of the base member 222. Further, the upper mounting member 212- 3 may be disposed towards the upper portion 222a of the base member 222 and away from the centers AA’ of the base member 222. Each of the lower mounting member 212-1 and the upper mounting member 212-3 may include a top portion 228. The top portion 228 may have a bent-shaped profile, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the top portion 228 of each first mounting member 212-1, 212-3 may have an L-shaped profile with respect to the base member 222, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Further, in an embodiment, the second mounting member 212-2 may be adapted to be formed between the pair of first mounting members 212-1, 212-3. In such an embodiment, the second mounting member 212-2 may have a step profile, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0059] Further, the switch unit 202 may be provided with a first mounting slot 230 and a second mounting slot 232. The first mounting slot 230 may be provided in a lower portion 234a of the switch unit 202 and the second mounting slot 232 may be provided in an upper portion 234b of the switch unit 202. During the assembly of the operating panel 102 with the switch unit 202, the first mounting slot 230 may be adapted to receive the lower mounting member 212-1. Similarly, during the assembly of the operating panel 102 with the switch unit202, the second mounting slot 232 may be adapted to receive the upper mounting member 212-3. The attachment of the at least one operating panel 102 with the switch unit 202 may be enabled by the insertion of the lower mounting member 212-1 into the first mounting slot 230 and the insertion of the upper mounting member 212-3 into the second mounting slot 232.

[0060] As mentioned earlier, the cover strip 104 may define the corners of the switch assembly 100. An exemplary embodiment describing the cover strip 104 is explained with respect to Figures 8 to 12. Specifically, Figure 8 illustrates a perspective view of a cover strip 104 of the switch assembly 100 whereas Figure 9 illustrates a front view of the cover strip 104, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Further, Figure 10 illustrates a side view of the cover strip 104 whereas Figure 11 illustrates a rear view of the cover strip 104. Finally, Figure 12 illustrates a side view of the cover strip 104.

[0061] In an embodiment, the cover strip 104 from the plurality of cover strips 104 may include a body having a front wall 402, at least one side wall 404 extending orthogonally from a side portion of the body, a top wall 406a extending orthogonally from a top portion of the body, and a bottom wall 406b extending orthogonally from a bottom portion of the body. The front wall 402 may have a front surface 402a adapted to face a user and a rear surface 402b adapted to face the mounting plate 208. The at least one side wall 404, the top wall 406a, and the bottom wall 406b extend away from the front surface 402a and towards the rear surface 402b. The rear surface 402b may be adapted to cover the side portion of the mounting plate 208 where the cover strip 104 may be mounted.

[0062] The at least one side wall 404 may be disposed between the top wall 406a and the bottom wall 406b such that the at least one side wall 404 may connect the top wall 406a and the bottom wall 406b with each other. Further, the at least one side wall 104, the top wall 406a, and the bottom wall 406b may be integrated with the front wall 402. A curved profile, such as a fillet, may be defined between the at least one side wall 404 and the top wall 406a. The curved profile may further be defined between the at least one side wall 404 and the bottom wall 406b. The curved profile may distribute stress more evenly along the cover strip 104 thereby reducing the likelihood of localized wear or damage. Also, the curved profile eliminates sharp comers that may potentially cause injury to a user.

[0063] In an embodiment, the rear surface 402b may have a plurality of locking members 702. The plurality of locking members 702 may have a first portion and a second portion connected to each other in an L-shaped profile. The first portion may be extended from the rear surface 402b of the front wall 402. The second portion may be extended from the top wall406a, the at least one side wall 404, and / or the bottom wall 406b. The plurality of locking members 702 may further be adapted as reinforcing members to provide additional strength and stability to the cover strip 104.

[0064] Furthermore, the plurality of locking members 702 may be snap-fitted within the plurality of first protruding portion 124 (shown in Figure 2B) of the mounting plate 208. The plurality of locking members 702 may be adapted to secure the cover strip 104 from a top end, a side end, and / or a bottom end with the mounting plate 208. The snap-fit mechanism allows for easy assembly and disassembly of the cover strip 104 without the need for additional tools or fasteners. The plurality of locking members 702 may lock the cover strip 104 in place thereby ensuring that the cover strip 104 may remain securely attached to the mounting plate 208 during use.

[0065] In an embodiment, another side of the cover strip 104 may be abutted to the side wall of the operating panel 102 to enhance an aesthetical value of the switch assembly 100. The cover strip 104 may include a pair of latching members 704 positioned opposite each other. Each latching member 704 of the pair of latching members 704 may be disposed between at least one of the top wall 406a and the bottom wall 406b and a mid-portion of the cover strip 104. Each of the pair of latching member 704 may be embodied as a rectangular shaft that protrudes outwardly from the rear surface 402b of the front wall 402. An end of the rectangular shaft may extend from the front wall 402 and another end may be free to engage with a first slot portion I l la (shown in Figure 2B) from the plurality of first slot portion I l la of the mounting plate 208.

[0066] Each of the pair of latching member 704 may be inserted within the first slot portion I l la of the mounting plate 208. The first slot portion I l la may have grooves to securely fasten the latching member 704. The latching member 704 may have a profile that conforms to the grooves of the first slot portion I l la such that the latching member 704 may snap fit within the first slot portion I l la. In an embodiment, the rectangular shaft may have one of notches, grooves, or cuts along a length to match with a corresponding profile of grooves provided inside the first slot portion 11 la to lock the latching member 704 securely within the first slot portion I l la. In an embodiment, the pair latching members 704 on the rear surface 402b of the cover strip 104 are adapted to snap fit within the first protruding portion 124 of the mounting plate 208 to facilitate the locking of the cover strip 104 with the mounting plate 208.

[0067] As shown in Figure 11, each of the pair of cover strips 104 defines a symmetric profile along a horizontal axis (Y-Y’) and a vertical axis (X-X’) along the rear surface 402b of thepair of cover strips 104. The symmetric profile of the cover strip 104 along the rear surface 402b facilitates the interchangeability of the cover strip 104 while being positioned / installed adjacent to the two ends of the mounting plate 208.

[0068] In an embodiment, while installation, the cover strip 104 may be positioned along the two opposite sides of the mounting plate 208 at an angle of 180-degree, such that the pair of cover strip 104 are positioned in an upright position and an inverted position along the two ends of the mounting plate 102. In an embodiment, the inverted position and the upright position of the cover strip 104 define the same geometrical orientation of the cover strip 104 along the rear surface 402 due to the symmetric orientation of the cover strip 104.

[0069] The interchangeability and the positioning of the cover strip 104 in both positions (inverted and upright positions) enable uniform production of the cover strip 104 to be positioned along the two ends of the mounting plate 208. In addition, the process of installation of the cover strip 104 with the mounting plate 208 and the switch assembly 100 is simple. Also, no distinct cover strip 104 is required to be manufactured for the mounting plate 208, this reduces the overall complexity and cost related to inventory handling for multiple components.

[0070] In an embodiment, each of the latching member 704 may be flat and have a rectangular profile, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In an alternative embodiment, each of the latching member 704 may have any other profile / shape depending on the first slot portion 11 la of the mounting plate 208, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0071] In an embodiment, the cover strip 104 may include a pair of clamping members 706. Each of the pair of clamping members 706 may have a U-shaped profile. The pair of clamping members 706 may protrude from the mid-portion of the front wall 402. The pair of clamping members 706 may be positioned on the rear surface 402b of the front wall 402. The pair of clamping members 706 may be disposed facing each other such that the pair of clamping members 706 may create an oval profile.

[0072] The pair of clamping members 706 may be disposed such that an intermittent gap 708 may form between each other. The intermittent gap 708 may be adapted to receive a portion of a second slot portion 111b and a third slot portion 111c (both shown in Figure 2B) of the mounting plate 208. Each of the pair of clamping members 706 may have the U-shaped profile to securely fit within a corresponding contour of the second slot portion 111b and the third slot portion 111c, respectively. Furthermore, a size of the pair of clamping members 706 may be lesser than a size of the pair of latching member 704. In an embodiment, the pair ofclamping member 706 on the cover strip 104 are adapted to abut a portion of the mounting plate 208 extending between the plurality of first protruding portion 124 formed on a side portion of the mounting plate 208.

[0073] According to the present disclosure, the mounting plate 208 is configured to allow easy installation / uninstallation of the switch unit thereon. An exemplary embodiment explaining the mounting plate 208 is explained with respect to Figures 13 to 16. Specifically, Figure 13 illustrates a front-perspective view of the mounting plate 208 of the switch assembly 100 whereas Figure 14 illustrates a rear-perspective view of the mounting plate 208 of the switch assembly 100, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Further, Figure 15 illustrates an exploded view of the mounting plate 208 coupled with a mounting platform 200 of the switch assembly 100 whereas Figure 16 illustrates a front view of the mounting plate 208 coupled with the mounting platform 200 of the switch assembly 100, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] As shown in Figure 13 and Figure 14, the mounting plate 106 defines a rectangular shape configuration. In another embodiment, the mounting plate 106 may define any other shape configuration such as a square-shaped configuration, a circular shape configuration, or any other shape configuration without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0075] As shown, the mounting plate 106 may include a pair of longitudinal sides 110 disposed parallel and spaced apart from one another. In an example, the mounting plate 106 may include a pair of lateral ends 112 disposed parallel and spaced apart from one another and adapted to extend between the pair of longitudinal sides 110.

[0076] In an example, the pair of lateral ends 112 may include a first lateral end 112a and a second lateral end 112b disposed parallel and spaced apart from the first lateral end 112a. The two lateral ends 112a, 112b are disposed between the two longitudinal sides 110. In an embodiment, the mounting plate 106 may be made of but not limited to a plastic material, a thermoplastic material, a polycarbonate, or any other insulating material without departing from the scope of the present subject matter.

[0077] Further, the mounting plate 106 may include a first surface 114 adapted to face towards the switch unit 202 and the operating panel 102. Furthermore, the mounting plate 106 may include a second surface 116 disposed opposite to the first surface 114 and adapted to face towards the mounting platform 200 or the wall. As shown, the first surface 114 may include a protruding boundary 118 extending inwardly offset from the first lateral end 112a, and the second lateral end 112b. The protruding boundary 118 may be adapted to protrudeoutwardly from the first surface 114 of the mounting plate 106 to facilitate the sealing of the mounting plate 106 within the mounting platform 200.

[0078] In an embodiment, a plurality of slot portions 111 includes at least one first slot portion 11 la, a second slot portion 111b and a third slot portion 111c. As shown in Figure 13, the first surface 114 of the pair of lateral ends 112 includes at least one enclosure 120 extending along the lateral ends 112. The enclosure 120 facilitates the abutment and the resting of the cover strip 108. In an embodiment, a contour of the enclosure 120 may be aligned with a contour of the cover strip 108 to facilitate the resting of the cover strip 108 within the enclosure 120.

[0079] Further, each of the plurality of enclosure 120 may include a cut-out portion 122 extending along a thickness of each of the lateral ends 112. In addition, each of the plurality of enclosure 120 may include the protruding portion 124 protruding orthogonally along a periphery of each of the cut-out portion 122 to facilitate the resting of the cover strip 108. In an embodiment, each of the protruding portions 124 defines a rectangular- shaped configuration extending orthogonally outwardly along the periphery of the cut-out portion 122.

[0080] Referring to Figures 15 and 16, the switch assembly 100 may be adapted to be mounted on the mounting platform 200, for example, a wall, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The switch assembly 100 may be adapted to be positioned / installed inside the mounting platform 200 to facilitate the positioning / installation of the switch assembly 100 within the wall. In one example, the mounting platform 200 is a metal box which is either mounted on or embedded in the wall for mounting of the switch assembly 100. Further, as per the standards followed by the electrical switches, the switch assembly 100 may be adapted to be rested / positioned inside the mounting platform 200 of predetermined shape, size, and configuration. In one example, the mounting platform 200 may Indian standard box which is sized in accordance specification set by Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). In other words, the switch assembly 100 may be compatible with existing Indian standard boxes. As a result, the positioning of the switch assembly 100 within the mounting platform 200 eliminates the need for a different mounting platform / fixture within the wall and the switch assembly 100 may be mounted onto the existing fixtures.

[0081] The mounting plate 106 of the present disclosure, enables the mounting of the switch assembly 100 in the standard mounting platform 200, which makes the switch assembly 100 more flexible for the implementation. The mounting plate 106 includes the second slot portion 111b and the third slot portion 111c. The second slot portion 111b and the third slot portion 111c allow the mounting plate 106 to be mounted onto the mounting platform 200. In anembodiment, screws (not shown) may be used to mount the mounting plate 106 onto the mounting platform 200, which may be inserted through the second slot portion 111b and the third slot portion 111c.

[0082] As would be gathered, the present disclosure ensures a simple configuration of the operating panel 102 having the protruded portion 308. The protruded portion 308 eliminates the direct contact between the edge of the switch unit 202 and the body of operating panel 102, during the operation of the operating panel 102. The protruded portion 308 further reduces the travel time of the operating panel 102 towards the switch unit 202.Therefore, this configuration ensures the dampening of the noise generated during the operation of the operating panel 102. Further, the present configuration of the operating panel 102 reduces the predetermined angle A of the protruded portion 308 with respect to the plurality of side walls 304 as compared to the existing switch assembly. This configuration also ensures soft movement of the operating panel 102, thus maintaining the working of the switch assembly 100. Thus, the operating panel 102 is an improved operating panel as compared to the existing operating panel.

[0083] Further, the present disclosure ensures a simple configuration of the at least one operating panel 102 adapted to be supported on the at least one rocker 102. Further, the present configuration includes at least one rocker 102 extending towards the plurality of edges 108 of the at least one operating panel 102 and at least two cover strips 106 extending towards the plurality of edges 108 of the at least one operating panel 102. Further, at least one operating panel 102 and the at least two cover strips 106 are of equal length as compared to the existing switch assembly. This configuration also eliminates the covered housing, thus reducing the additional material cost of the frameless switch assembly 100.

[0084] Furthermore, the switch assembly 100 provides the at least one of operating panel 102 corresponding to the switch unit, which is removed and replaced by the static panel 103, resulting in an effective user experience.

[0085] Additionally, the present configuration of the at least one operating panel 102 also ensures the assembly of a long operating panel in the switch assembly 100 as compared to the existing switch assembly. Thus, the present configuration of the at least one operating panel 102 ensures an improved operating panel of the switch assembly 100.

[0086] Moreover, the present disclosure ensures a simple configuration of the at least one operating panel 102 having the base member 222, the plurality of mounting members 212. The plurality of mounting members 212 may provide ease of assembly of the at least one operating panel 102 on the switch unit 202. This configuration also reduces the assembly timeof the at least one operating panel 102 with the switch unit 202. The configuration as disclosed ensures stable attachment of the at least one operating panel 102, having a larger length, with the switch unit 202 as compared to the existing switch assembly. This configuration provides a maximum contact surface area on the at least one operating panel 102.

[0087] Therefore, the user has to apply less force while operating the at least one operating panel 102 ensuring ease of the operation of the at least one operating panel 102 by the user. Further, the present configuration of the at least one operating panel 102 provides ease of customization to the user. Thus, the present configuration of the at least one operating panel 102 ensures an improved operating panel of the switch assembly 100 and maintains the aesthetic appearance of the switch assembly 100.

[0088] Furthermore, the cover strip 104 covers non-functional areas of the switch assembly 100. The cover strip 104 may have the plurality of locking members 702, the pair of latching member 704, and the pair of clamping members 706, facilitating an easy attachment and removal from the switch assembly 100. Further, the cover strip 104 may eliminate a need for fasteners or fastening holes to secure the cover strip 104 with the mounting plate 208. The cover strip 104 further eliminates a requirement of the cover plate, decreases part count, and reduces complexity while assembling / disassembling the switch assembly 100. The cover strip 104 may make the switch assembly 100 more compact and visually appealing.

[0089] The present disclosure presents various technical advancements which may include mounting of the electrical switch assembly 100 onto the mounting platform 200 which facilitates mounting of the electrical switch assembly 100 onto the wall. Moreover, the incorporation of the mounting platform 200 allows for the electrical switch assembly 100 to be mounted onto the wall without any additional fixtures.

[0090] While specific language has been used to describe the present subject matter, any limitations arising on account thereto, are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein. The drawings and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment.

Claims

Claims:

1. A switch assembly (100), comprising: switch unit (102); at least one operating panel (202) adapted to be supported on the switch unit (102) and comprising: a base member (302) adapted to be supported on the switch unit (202); a plurality of side walls (304) formed at a periphery of the base member (302) and extended towards the switch unit (202) with respect to the base member (302), wherein: the plurality of side walls (304) comprises a protruded portion (308), the protruded portion (308) comprises a first side (308a) and a second side (308b), the first side (308a) and the second side (308b) are formed such that a top end (308c) is defined between intersecting edges of the first side (308a) and the second side (308b) and adapted to dampen noise, when the at least one operating panel (102) is operated in a plurality of positions.

2. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the protruded portion (308) is formed at a predetermined angle with respect to the plurality of side walls (304).

3. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the first side 308a and the second side 308b may have a predetermined length L, the predetermined length L increases towards a centre BB’.

4. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the top end (308c) is defined at the center (BB’) of the switch assembly (100) and opposite to the base member (302), and the top end (308c) is extended towards the switch unit (202) from the periphery of the plurality of side walls (304).

5. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the predetermined angle A is in the range from 5 degrees to 10 degrees.

6. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein when the at least one operating panel (102) operates in at least one direction from the plurality of directions, the second side (308b) and the top end (308c) are adapted to rest on a surface of the switch unit (202) to dampen the noise in the switch assembly (100).

7. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein when the at least one operating panel (102) operates in another direction from the plurality of directions, the first side (308a) and the top end (308c) are adapted to rest on a surface of the switch unit (202) to dampen the noise in the switch assembly (100).

8. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 1, comprising a plurality of edge walls (306) adapted to be extended towards the switch unit (202) from an upper portion (302a) and a lower portion (302b) of the base member (302).

9. The switch assembly (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the plurality of side walls (304) is in contact with the plurality of edge walls (306) and the base member (304).

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