Switch Paddle Mounting Base for No-Rewiring Load Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load control systems require electrical re-wiring to replace standard mechanical switches with advanced devices, which is beyond the comfort level of average consumers and necessitates professional installation.
Innovation Solution
A remote control device that can be mounted over an existing mechanical switch without accessing electrical wiring, utilizing a base with a mounting tab and frame to attach to the paddle actuator, enabling wireless communication and control of load control devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard mechanical switches are replaced with advanced load control devices, then load control functionality is improved, but installation complexity increases requiring electrical re-wiring
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device is nested over the existing mechanical switch, with the base portion fitting around the switch housing and the control unit mounted on the front. This nested configuration allows the advanced load control device to utilize the space around the existing switch without requiring removal or electrical re-wiring, thereby maintaining load control functionality while eliminating installation complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting tab attaches directly to the paddle actuator of the existing mechanical switch, allowing the device to self-mount without requiring electrical disconnection or professional installation. The device serves itself by utilizing the existing switch structure as its mounting foundation, transforming the switch from a component to be replaced into a component that supports the new functionality
2Adaptability or versatility
If electrical re-wiring is performed to install load control devices, then load control capability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to requiring professional installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electrical installation mechanism with a mechanical attachment mechanism. Instead of requiring electrical re-wiring, the device uses a mounting tab with adhesive that mechanically attaches to the paddle actuator. This substitution transforms the installation process from a complex electrical task requiring professional skills into a simple mechanical attachment that any consumer can perform
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting tab acts as an intermediary element that bridges the remote control device and the existing mechanical switch. It provides a non-electrical connection method that allows the control device to mount to the switch without requiring electrical disconnection, thereby maintaining ease of operation while enabling load control capability
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing mechanical switch is removed and replaced, then advanced control functionality is achieved, but loss of time increases due to un-wiring and re-wiring procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting tab is pre-attached to the paddle actuator of the existing mechanical switch before the remote control device is installed. This preliminary action eliminates the need for un-wiring and re-wiring procedures, allowing the device to be mounted directly onto the existing switch structure and significantly reducing installation time
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the installation process into two independent parts: the existing mechanical switch remains in place providing the mounting foundation, while the remote control device is separately mounted over it. This segmentation allows the new device to be installed without touching the electrical wiring, eliminating time-consuming un-wiring and re-wiring steps while still achieving advanced control functionality
Data Source
AI summary
A remote control device may control electrical loads and/or load control devices of a load control system without accessing electrical wiring. The remote control device may include a control unit and a base for the control unit. The base may include a frame and a mounting tab that attaches to the paddle actuator of a mechanical switch. The mounting tab may be monolithic with the frame. Alternatively, the base may include a resilient attachment member that extends from the frame and is captively retained by the mounting tab. The frame and the attachment member may be configured such that the attachment member is held in a fixed in position by the frame, or such that the attachment member is translatable relative to the frame. The base may include one or more alignment members. The base may cause a rear surface of the frame to be biased against the mechanical switch.