Retrofit Switch-Mounted Remote Control for No-Rewiring Lighting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load control systems require electrical wiring and replacement of mechanical switches for installation of load control devices, which average consumers may not feel comfortable performing.
Innovation Solution
A remote control device that can be mounted over a toggle actuator of a mechanical switch, allowing for wireless control of electrical loads without requiring electrical re-wiring or replacement of existing switches, featuring a base portion and a control portion that maintains the toggle actuator in an on position and includes a wireless communication circuit for transmitting control signals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a load control device is installed by replacing a standard switch, then advanced control features and energy savings are achieved, but electrical wiring work and switch replacement are required which average consumers may not feel comfortable performing
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device is mounted over the existing mechanical switch, nesting the new control functionality within the existing switch infrastructure. This allows the remote control device to leverage the existing electrical connection while providing advanced control features, eliminating the need for complete switch replacement and reducing installation complexity for average consumers.
2Ease of operation
If a remote control device is mounted over the toggle actuator, then wireless control is enabled without electrical re-wiring, but the toggle actuator may be accidentally switched to the off position causing the electrical load to be unpowered
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device includes features such as a toggle guard or cover that prevents accidental switching of the toggle actuator to the off position. This preliminary protective measure blocks potential harmful actions (accidental switching) before they can occur, ensuring reliable control of the electrical load while maintaining the simplicity of mounting over the existing actuator.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the base portion is designed to be mounted over the toggle actuator, then a retrofit solution is provided without electrical re-wiring, but the base portion may interfere with the actuator's movement
Solution Approach 1:
The base portion is segmented into multiple components including a mounting structure with attachment features that can be independently configured. This segmentation allows the base portion to be designed with specific openings, gaps, or flexible elements that accommodate the toggle actuator's movement while providing secure mounting, thus enabling retrofit capability without excessive interference with actuator operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A control device may be configured to be mounted over a bezel portion of an electrical device and to control a lighting load. The control device may comprise a base portion having planar extensions removably attached or affixed thereto. The planar extensions may be adapted to be received in a gap between a faceplate of the electrical device and the bezel portion for holding the control device against the faceplate. The planar extensions may comprise barbs that allow for insertion of the extensions in the gap, and may bite into the faceplate to hinder removal of the control device. The planar extensions may be defined by a mounting structure that is configured to be received in the gap between the bezel portion and the faceplate. The mounting structure may protrude beyond a front surface of the faceplate.