Wall Switch Retrofit Remote Control for Wireless Load Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of advanced load control systems in existing electrical setups is often hindered by the need for electrical re-wiring and the requirement for skilled professionals, and smart devices may lose functionality when traditional switches are turned off, disrupting power delivery.
Innovation Solution
The development of remote control devices that can be mounted over existing mechanical switches without re-wiring, allowing for wireless control of electrical loads and preventing accidental power cutoffs, using adapters, control units, and faceplates that attach to the switches, enabling zoned control and energy savings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If standard mechanical switches are replaced by load control devices, then advanced control features and energy savings are achieved, but electrical re-wiring and skilled installation are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote control device as an intermediary that mounts over the existing mechanical switch without requiring electrical re-wiring. This mediator provides advanced load control features while leaving the original switch infrastructure intact, thus achieving versatility without increasing installation complexity.
2Ease of operation
If wall-mounted switch is operated to off position, then power control is achieved, but smart devices lose functionality and cannot respond to remote commands
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device incorporates a sensor that detects the position of the mechanical switch actuator and provides feedback to the control circuit. When the switch is in the off position, the system receives this feedback and prevents transmission of control commands to smart devices, thereby maintaining reliability of smart device functionality while preserving manual power control capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If remote control device is mounted over mechanical switch, then wireless control capability is added, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device is segmented into distinct functional modules: a mounting bracket that attaches to the mechanical switch, a sensor module that detects switch position, a control circuit that processes signals, and a wireless transmitter that communicates with smart devices. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining wireless control capability.
Data Source
AI summary
Remote control devices may control electrical loads and/or load control devices of a load control system without accessing electrical wiring. The remote control device may be mounted over a mechanical switch that is installed in a multi-gang wallbox adjacent to a second electrical device, such as another mechanical switch or an electrical receptacle. The second electrical device may be recessed with respect to the remote control device and may be brought forward towards a front surface of the adapter by loosening a first set of screws that attach a yoke of the second electrical device to the multi-gang wallbox, and tightening a second set of screws that attach the adapter to the yoke of the second electrical device. The remote control device may comprise one or more configurable attachment members for attaching the adapter to the yoke of the mechanical switch and/or to the yoke of the second electrical device.