Retrofit Switch Remote Mounting for No-Rewiring Load Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load control systems require electrical wiring modifications to install advanced load control devices, making it difficult for average consumers to replace standard mechanical toggle switches with dimmer switches or other load control devices without professional assistance.
Innovation Solution
A remote control device that can be mounted over a mechanical switch without accessing the electrical wiring, allowing for control of an electrical load and maintaining the toggle actuator in an 'on' position to prevent accidental disconnection, using a mounting assembly and control unit that can be securely attached and detached, and providing feedback through an annular light bar.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard mechanical toggle switch is replaced with a load control device, then advanced control features and energy savings are achieved, but electrical wiring work and professional installation are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote control device as an intermediary between the user and the electrical load. This device communicates wirelessly with the load control device, eliminating the need for users to perform electrical wiring work. The remote control device includes a mounting assembly that attaches to the existing mechanical switch without requiring electrical connections, thereby providing advanced control features while maintaining installation simplicity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If electrical wiring is modified to install load control devices, then load control functionality is achieved, but installation complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the control functionality from the electrical wiring system and places it in a separate wireless remote control device. The mounting assembly attaches to the external surface of the existing switch without requiring any modification to the electrical wiring. This separation allows load control functionality to be added while eliminating the time-consuming electrical wiring work.
3Ease of operation
If the toggle actuator is left accessible, then user control flexibility is maintained, but accidental disconnection may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different qualities to different parts of the system. The mounting assembly provides a secured state that prevents accidental disconnection of the toggle actuator, while the remote control device maintains control flexibility through wireless operation. This allows the physical switch to be secured against accidental movement while digital control options remain available to users.
4Reliability
If a mounting assembly is used to secure the control unit, then device stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the remote control device into two separate components: a mounting assembly and a control unit. The mounting assembly is responsible for securing the device to the switch and providing structural stability, while the control unit contains the electronic control circuitry. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, with the mounting assembly being simple and robust while the control unit remains compact and functional.
Data Source
AI summary
A remote control device may be configured to be mounted over the toggle actuator of a light switch and to control a load control device. The remote control device may include a mounting assembly and a control unit that is removably attachable to the mounting assembly. The mounting assembly may include a release tab that is configured to be operated from a locking position in which the control unit is secured to the mounting assembly, to a release position in which the control unit may be detached from the mounting assembly. The mounting assembly may include a clamp that is configured to engage with the toggle actuator of a mechanical switch to which the remote control device is mounted.