WO2020028224A1

WO2020028224A1 - Smart switch cover

Info

Publication number: WO2020028224A1
Application number: PCT/US2019/043870
Authority: WO
Inventors: Max Andrew POLLINGER; Nathan LOUTIT
Original assignee: Delos Living Llc
Priority date: 2018-08-03
Filing date: 2019-07-29
Publication date: 2020-02-06

Abstract

A wireless wall switch assembly configured to be used with electrical loads is described. By one approach, the wireless wall switch is mounted over an existing wall switch assembly and controls or communicates with the electrical load associated with the existing wall switch assembly. In such a configuration, the wireless wall switch assembly generally includes a frame plate configured to adhere to a switch plate associated with the existing wall switch, a housing comprising a plurality of magnetic elements disposed on an underside of the housing and arranged to allow releasable magnetic adherence of the housing to the frame plate, and a wireless switch couplable to an outer surface of the housing. The wireless switch is communicatively coupled to the electrical load and is configured to control or communicate with the electrical load associated with the existing wall switch.

Description

SMART SWITCH COVER

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application. No. 62/714,477, filed August 3, 2018, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure generally relates to wall switch devices, systems, and methods.

More particularly, this disclosure relates to wireless wall switch assemblies mountable over existing wall switches, which then may allow for wireless control of electrical loads such as lights, ceiling fans, window blinds, air conditioning and heating systems, and the like.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Most people spend significant amounts of time in habitable spaces, such as those associated with homes, apartments, condominium units, hotel suites or rooms, motel suites or rooms, spas, hospitals, trailers, and other public and private facilities. These habitable spaces often include conventional wired wall switches to control, for example, lights, ceiling fans, appliances, window blinds, window transparency, HVAC systems, and other electrical equipment and devices. Smart home systems— where various electrical devices and functions of the home may be wirelessly controlled using wireless switches and even smartphone devices— are gaining in popularity amongst homeowners. While new homes may be

constructed with an integrated smart home system to enable wireless control of various electrical devices and functions of the home, installing a smart home system in an older home generally requires significant modifications to the existing electrical system. For example, conventional wired electrical devices such as light fixtures, ceiling fans, etc. need to be modified with wireless receivers or switched out with state-of-the-art devices integrated with wireless capability, while conventional hardwired wall switches may be replaced with wireless wall switches or removed.

[0004] However, replacing a conventional hardwired wall switches with wireless wall switches can be time-consuming and complicated for some people, requiring tools and at least some electrical know-how. Despite this, many people are uncomfortable performing even minor electrical work and often enlist the services of an electrician to replace electrical switches, which can lead to unnecessary expense.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0005] Generally speaking, pursuant to various embodiments, systems, apparatuses and methods are provided herein for wirelessly controlling or communicatively directly or indirectly with an electrical load. In some configurations, the electrical load is controllable by an existing wall switch wired to the load. In one approach, the wireless wall switch assembly is configured to be retrofitted over some or all of the existing wired wall switch without the need for specialized know-how and without requiring removal of the existing wired wall switch. In another approach, the wireless wall switch assembly may be a standalone wireless switch assembly configured to be mounted to the wall itself rather than over an existing wired wall switch. In another approach, the wireless wall switch may control or be in communication with other one or more other devices, such as light sensors, air quality sensors, air temperature sensors, humidity sensors, water quality sensors, etc., that can take measurements or readings and send data to one or more devices such as lights, window blinds, fans, water filtration devices, etc. that then alter or govern the operation of such one or more devices.

[0006] In some illustrative embodiments, the wireless wall switch assembly generally includes a housing, a wireless wall switch that is attachable to a front (distal) side of the housing, and an attachment assembly configured to attach or otherwise mount the housing over the existing wired wall switch and/or to the wall itself. The attachment assembly may include a variety of adhesive materials, magnetic engagements or materials, or combinations thereof.

[0007] In one approach, the wireless wall switch assembly may include a frame plate that is adherable to the existing wall switch plate, a housing that attaches to the frame plate, and a wireless wall switch that attaches to the housing. The frame plate may attach to the existing wall switch plate using, for example, an adhesive material disposed on a proximal side (back) of the frame plate. In some approaches, the adhesive material may be a releasably adhesive material, which allows the user to install and remove the wireless wall switch assembly without damaging the existing switch plate and potentially without the need for using tools such as a screwdriver.

[0008] In some approaches, the housing may attach to the frame plate using a magnetic engagement. For example, the frame plate may comprise a magnetic material therein and/or thereon such that, for example, the magnetic material or magnetic elements may be disposed on a distal (front) side of the frame plate, while the housing may include magnetic material or magnetic elements having an opposite polarity disposed on an underside of the housing.

Magnetically attaching the underside of the housing to the distal side of the frame plate allows a user to easily remove the housing from the existing wall switch, providing the user with ready access to the existing wall switch as needed. The housing may have a peripheral rim or side extending away from the underside of the housing, the peripheral rim or side being configured to surround the existing switch plate and/or to provide a clearance between the underside of the housing and typically at least a portion of an existing wall switch coupled to the existing switch plate. The existing wall switch being covered by the wireless wall switch assembly may include, for example, at least one of a toggle switch, a rocker switch, a push button, a joystick switch, a slide switch, a limit switch, a float switch, and a rotary knob. In some approaches, at least an edge or portion of the housing is proximal to or in contact with a wall. In some approaches, a shape of an edge or portion of the housing corresponds to a shape of an edge or portion of the existing switch plate.

[0009] By one approach, the wireless switch attaches to the housing by way of an adhesive material disposed on an underside of the wireless switch. In some approaches, the adhesive material may be a releasably adhesive material. In some approaches, the outer surface of the housing may include a recessed portion having a shape of the perimeter of the wireless switch and the wireless switch may attach to the recessed portion of the outer surface of the housing.

In some approaches, this recessed portion may include an opening therein, which allows a user access to the underside of the wireless switch when the housing is removed from the frame plate.

[0010] In some approaches, an optional face plate having an opening therein may be coupled to the housing. The face plate may be configured to cover the outer surface of the housing that surrounds the wireless switch and to allow the wireless switch to protrude through the opening in the face plate. In some approaches, the face plate may attach to the housing by way of a magnetic engagement. In some approaches, the face plate may attach to the housing by way of a snap fit engagement. For example, a plurality of snap fits disposed along an underside of the face plate may slide through a plurality of cutouts in the housing to engage with a portion of the underside of the housing. In some approaches, the face plate is configured to house or otherwise include one or more electronic or mechanical attachments such as, for example, a user interface, a display unit, sensors, clips, hooks, a mirror, a small shelf, and the like. [0011] The wireless wall switch assembly is generally installed over one or more wired wall switches, wherein the wired wall switches are configured to be in an“on” position with respect to the electrical load(s) or in one of multiple“on” positions that may be possible with the wired wall switch. In a system comprising one or more of the wireless wall switch assemblies described herein, the wireless switch attached to the housing covering the wired wall switch may be communicatively coupled, directly or indirectly, to the electrical load associated with the wired wall switch, allowing a user to control or communicate directly or indirectly with the electrical load by manipulating the wireless switch. In some approaches, when the user manipulates the wireless switch, the wireless switch sends a signal directly or indirectly to the electrical load, and control circuitry associated directly or indirectly with the electrical load converts the signal to an instruction and executes the instruction, such as, for example, by causing an operation or change of the electrical load. For example, when a user manipulates a wireless switch associated with a light source, the wireless switch may send a signal to the control circuit that causes the light source to turn on or off, change color intensity or color temperature, or to increase or decrease light output. In another example, when a user manipulates a wireless switch associated with a fan assembly, the wireless switch may send a signal to the control circuit that causes the fan assembly to turn on or off, to increase or decrease rotational speed, or to change direction. In some systems, a plurality of wireless switches may be associated with one or a plurality of existing wall switches and/or electrical loads. For example, a first of the plurality of wireless switches may control or be in communication with a first electrical load and a second of the plurality of wireless switches may control or be in communication with a second electrical load.

[0012] A method of installing a wireless wall switch assembly over an existing wired switch assembly is also described herein. The method may begin with establishing that an existing wall switch for an electrical load is in an“on” position. The user may then secure to the existing wall switch plate a frame plate with a first attractive material disposed on a first side and a second attractive material on a second side, wherein the first attractive material secures the frame plate to the existing wall switch plate. A housing with a third attractive material may be coupled to the frame plate via the second attractive material being attracted to the third attractive material. A wireless switch may be coupled to a first portion of an outer surface of the housing, and an optional face plate may be coupled to a second portion of an outer surface of the housing, the face plate having an opening disposed therein exposing the wireless switch, which can be accessed by a user to operate the electrical load associated with the existing wall switch.

[0013] In some approaches, a method of converting a wired wall switch assembly to a wireless wall switch assembly may include adhering a frame plate comprising a magnetic material to a surface of an existing switch plate mounted to a wall, magnetically attaching to the frame plate a housing comprising a plurality of magnetic elements disposed on an underside of the housing, coupling a wireless switch to a first surface of the housing, and optionally coupling a face plate comprising an opening therein to the housing, wherein the face plate is configured to cover a second surface of the housing surrounding the first surface of the housing so that the wireless switch coupled to the first surface protrudes through the opening in the face plate.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view of a wireless wall switch assembly according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 2 shows a rear perspective view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0016] FIG. 3 shows a front view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0017] FIG. 4 shows a right-side view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in

FIG. 3.

[0018] FIG. 5 shows a rear view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0019] FIG. 6 shows a top view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0020] FIG. 7 shows a bottom view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG.

3.

[0021] FIG. 8 shows a right-side sectional view taken along line E-E of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 3.

[0022] FIG. 9 shows a magnified right-side sectional view of detail F illustrated in FIG. 8.

[0023] FIG. 10 shows a front exploded view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0024] FIG. 11 shows a perspective sectional view of a wireless wall switch assembly installed on an existing switch plate according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0025] FIG. 12 shows a sectional view of a wireless wall switch assembly installed on an existing switch plate according to one illustrated embodiment. [0026] FIG. 13 shows a front perspective view of a housing having lengthwise and widthwise cutouts for receiving snap fits disposed on the underside of a face plate according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0027] FIG. 14 shows a rear perspective view of a snap fit engagement when a face plate is coupled to the housing illustrated in FIG. 13.

[0028] FIG. 15 shows a magnified view of the snap fit engagement illustrated in FIG. 14.

[0029] FIG. 16 shows a perspective sectional view of the snap fit engagement illustrated in

FIG. 15.

[0030] FIG. 17 shows a sectional view of a snap fit engagement according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 18 shows a front perspective view of a housing having shorter cutouts for receiving snap fits disposed on the underside of a face plate according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0032] FIG. 19 shows a rear perspective view of the housing illustrated in FIG. 18.

[0033] FIG. 20 shows a rear perspective view of a snap fit engagement when a face plate is coupled to the housing illustrated in FIG. 20.

[0034] FIG. 21 shows a perspective sectional view of the snap fit engagement illustrated in FIG. 20.

[0035] FIG. 22 shows a rear perspective view of a wireless wall switch assembly according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 23 shows a rear exploded view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 22.

[0037] FIG. 24 shows a front perspective view of a wireless wall switch assembly according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 25 shows a rear perspective view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 24.

[0039] FIG. 26 shows a front view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 24.

[0040] FIG. 27 shows a right-side view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 26.

[0041] FIG. 28 shows a rear view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 26.

[0042] FIG. 29 shows a top view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 26.

[0043] FIG. 30 shows a bottom view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 26.

[0044] FIG. 31 shows a left-side sectional view taken along line C-C of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 26.

[0045] FIG. 32 shows a magnified left-side sectional view of detail D illustrated in FIG. 31.

[0046] FIG. 33 shows a front exploded view of the wireless wall switch assembly illustrated in FIG. 24.

[0047] FIG. 34 is a block diagram showing a wireless wall switch system according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0048] FIG. 35 is a block diagram showing a wireless wall switch system according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0049] FIG. 36 is a block diagram showing a wireless wall switch system according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0050] FIG. 37 is a block diagram showing a wireless switch according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0051] FIG. 38 is a block diagram showing an electrical load according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0052] FIG. 39 is a block diagram showing a central hub according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0053] FIG. 40 is a flow diagram showing a method of converting a wired wall switch assembly to a wireless wall switch assembly according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0054] FIG. 41 is a flow diagram showing a method of installing a wireless wall switch assembly over an existing wired switch assembly according to one illustrated embodiment.

[0055] Elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions and/or relative positioning of some of the elements in the figures may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of various embodiments of the present invention. Also, common but well-understood elements that are useful or necessary in a commercially feasible embodiment are often not depicted in order to facilitate a less obstructed view of these various embodiments of the present invention. Certain actions and/or steps may be described or depicted in a particular order of occurrence while those skilled in the art will understand that such specificity with respect to sequence is not actually required. The terms and expressions used herein have the ordinary technical meaning as is accorded to such terms and expressions by persons skilled in the technical field as set forth above except where different specific meanings have otherwise been set forth herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0056] The following description is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the purpose of describing the general principles of exemplary embodiments. Reference throughout this specification to“one embodiment,”“an embodiment,”“some embodiments,” “one approach,”“some approaches,” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment described herein. Thus, appearances of the phrases“in one embodiment,”“in an embodiment,”“in some embodiments”, and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0057] ETnless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims which follow, the word "comprise" and variations thereof, such as, "comprises" and

"comprising" are to be construed in an open, inclusive sense, that is, as "including, but not limited to." As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term "or" is generally employed in its sense including "and/or" unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.

[0058] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the terms“distal,”“front,” and derivatives thereof, refer to surfaces or ends of a component that face away from the wall when the wireless wall switch assembly is assembled and mounted on the wall. The term “proximal,”“back,” and derivatives thereof, refer to surfaces or ends of a component that face toward the wall when the wireless wall switch assembly is assembled and mounted to the wall.

[0059] The headings and Abstract of the Disclosure provided herein are for convenience only and do not interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the embodiments.

[0060] The present disclosure generally relates to systems, apparatuses, and methods for wirelessly controlling an electrical load that is wired to an existing wall switch. In some exemplary embodiments, a wireless wall switch assembly is installed over one or more existing wired wall switch that is switched to the“on” position. The configuration of the wireless wall switch assembly is such that no tools may be needed to install the wireless wall switch assembly over the existing wall switch. The housing of the wireless wall switch assembly houses a wireless switch that is communicatively coupled to the electrical load, allowing wireless control of or direct or indirect communication with the electrical load and permitting integration of the electrical load into smart home systems, while also allowing a user to continue to manipulate a switch to control the electrical load.

[0061] The devices, systems, and methods described herein enable a user to reversibly modify hardwired electrical systems to allow for wireless control of electrical devices such as ceiling fans, window blinds, air conditioning and heating systems, and the like. In one example, a wireless wall switch assembly may be retrofitted over a wired wall switch. In another example, a wireless wall switch assembly may be mounted to the wall independent of an existing wired wall switch. In either case, the modification does not require specialized tools or know-how and allows the user to retain and/or easily revert to the original wired wall switch system, providing a straightforward and flexible option for those wanting to incorporate smart home technology into their homes.

[0062] FIGS. 1 to 10 illustrate an exemplary wireless wall switch assembly 100 according to one embodiment. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, wireless wall switch assembly 100 generally includes a frame plate 110, a housing 120, an optional face plate 130, and a wireless switch 140. Referring to FIGS. 3 to 10, frame plate 110 has a distal side 111 facing away from the wall and a proximal side 112 facing towards the wall when assembled as part of wireless wall switch assembly 100. Housing 120 has a distal outer surface 121 facing away from the wall and a proximal underside 123 facing distal side 111 of frame plate 110 when assembled as part of wireless wall switch assembly 100. Optional face plate 130 has a distal outer surface 131 facing away from the wall and a proximal side 133 facing outer surface 121 of housing 120 when assembled as part of wireless wall switch assembly 100. The face plate 130 may partially or completely extend, or have different portions that partially or completely extend, to the outer edge 129 of the housing 120, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 5 and 7. In some embodiments, some or all of the outer surface 131 may be parallel or non-parallel to the wall on which the wired switch assembly is attached. Wireless switch 140 has a distal end 141 facing away from the wall when assembled as part of wall switch assembly 100 and proximal end 142 facing the opposite direction. In some embodiments, the facing outer surface 121 may be parallel to some or all of the wall to which the wireless switch is attached. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the housing 120 may be shaped such that the facing outer surface 121 is not parallel to the wall, or at least has portions positioned at different lengths from the wall. [0063] Frame plate 110 is generally configured to attach or adhere to an existing wall switch plate that is installed on a wall and/or to the wall surrounding the existing wall switch plate. Frame plate 110 may be formed of any suitable material including, for example, various metals, plastics, composite materials, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, frame plate 110 may be formed of steel. For example, frame plate 110 may be formed of powder- coated steel.

[0064] In some embodiments, frame plate 110 may be coupled to the existing switch plate by an attractive material configured to adhere the proximal side 112 of the frame plate 110 to the existing switch plate. As illustrated in FIG. 10, an attractive material 105 may be disposed or layered on the proximal side 112 of frame plate 110. In some embodiments, the attractive material 105 may include a layer of double-sided adhesive tape. In other embodiments, the attractive material 105 may include a magnetic material. While FIG. 10 illustrates wireless wall switch assembly 100 having a layer of attractive material 105, in other embodiments an attractive material may be included in the material forming or the matrix of frame plate 110.

[0065] It should be understood that any suitable attractive material or combination of attractive materials may be used to adhere frame plate 110 to the existing switch plate or around the existing switch plate. Suitable attractive materials may include, but are not limited to, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials such as glues, epoxies, tapes, and the like. Preferably, the adhesive material is a releasably adhesive material permitting removal of the frame plate 110 from the existing switch plate without damaging the existing switch plate. As appreciated by those skilled in the art, suitable attractive materials for adhering frame plate 110 to the existing switch plate may be dependent on, for example, the composition of the frame plate 110 and/or the composition of the existing switch plate. For instance, if the existing switch plate is formed of a metallic or otherwise magnetically attractive material, a suitable attractive material to adhere the frame plate 110 to the existing switch plate may comprise a magnetic material disposed in or on at least a portion of the proximal side 112 of the frame plate 110. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the proximal side 112 of frame plate 110 may be coated with a magnetic coating or paint. In another embodiment, discreet magnetic elements may be disposed on the proximal side 112 of frame plate 110 to adhere the frame plate to the existing wall plate. In some embodiments, magnetic material may be dispersed equally or unequally within or throughout the matrix of the frame plate 110 itself to attractively couple the frame plate 110 to the existing wall switch plate. [0066] Frame plate 110 is also configured to couple to housing 120. Frame plate 110 may be coupled to housing 120 using any combination of suitable attractive materials including, for example, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials, and the like. Preferably, the attractive material is a releasably attractive material. In some embodiments, housing 120 may be coupled to frame plate 110 by a magnetic engagement. For example, as illustrated in FIGS.

8 to 10, housing 120 may include a plurality of magnetic elements 115 disposed in or on underside 123 of housing 120. In some embodiments the magnetic elements may be configured to reside in a plurality of bosses 123 a (shown in FIG. 14) formed in the underside 123 of housing 120.

[0067] Frame plate 110 may be formed of, or may include on at least its distal side 111, a metallic or otherwise magnetically attractive material configured to magnetically adhere frame plate 110 to the magnetic elements 115. Preferably the magnetic adherence is releasable. While the magnetic adherence between housing 120 and frame plate 110 should be strong enough to maintain continued attachment when assembled, the magnetic adherence should not be so strong as to prevent a user from easily separating housing 120 from frame plate 110 by hand. The releasable magnetic adherence between the housing 120 and the frame plate 110 allows a user to remove the housing from the frame plate with minimal effort and potentially without the use of tools, providing the user with ready access to the wired switch, as needed.

[0068] Referring now to FIGS. 11 and 12, wireless wall switch assembly 100 is generally configured to be mounted over an existing wired wall switch assembly 10. The existing wired wall switch assembly 10 may include an existing switch plate 12 mounted to a wall and an existing switch 14. The existing switch plate 12 may be formed of any suitable material including, for example, various metals, plastics, composite materials, and combinations thereof. The existing wall switch 14 may comprise any conventional type of wall switch, including, for example, a toggle switch, a rocker switch, a push button, a rotary knob, a joystick switch, a slide switch, a limit switch, a float switch, and combinations thereof.

[0069] As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, housing 120 may comprise a peripheral rim or side 124 extending rearward from the underside 123 of housing 120. In some embodiments, as illustrated best in FIGS.11 and 12, peripheral rim or side 124 may surround the existing switch plate 12 when housing 120 is installed over existing wall switch assembly 10. Peripheral rim or side 124 may be of sufficient length to provide a clearance between the underside 123 of housing 120 and existing wall switch 14 when housing 120 is installed over one or more existing wall switch assembly 10. In some embodiments, at least an edge of housing 120 may be proximal to or in contact with the wall surrounding existing wall switch assembly 10. In some embodiments, a shape of an edge of housing 120 may correspond to a shape of an edge of existing switch plate 12. In some embodiments, the peripheral rim or side 124 may be perpendicular or nearly perpendicular relative to some or all of the wall surrounding existing wall switch assembly 10. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the peripheral rim or side 124 may be slanted or angled relative to some or all of the wall surrounding existing wall switch assembly 10.

[0070] In some embodiments, the housing 120 may be symmetric along its horizontal and/or vertical axis, or relative to the wireless switch 140, the recessed portion 122, or other point on the housing 120. Similarly, in some embodiments, the housing 120 may be asymmetric along its horizontal and/or vertical axis, or relative to the wireless switch 140, the recessed portion 122, or other point on the housing 120. In some embodiments, the housing 120 may fit snugly next to or be positioned away from some or all of the existing wall switch assembly 10.

[0071] In some embodiments, the recessed portion 122 may be symmetrically or asymmetrically positioned with the wall assembly 100, the housing 120, or relative to some other point on the wall assembly 100 or the housing 120.

[0072] Wireless wall switch assembly 100 further includes wireless switch 140

communicatively coupled, directly or indirectly, to an electrical load. Wireless switch 140 is generally configured to communicate, directly or indirectly, and wirelessly using any suitable wireless protocol/technical standard including, but not limited to, Bluetooth, BLE, Wi-Fi (WLAN), Z-wave, Zigbee, Thread, 6L0WPAN, Infrared, mesh, and including any suitable subsequently developed wireless protocol/technical standard. In some embodiments, the wireless switch 140 may act as a single or double pole switch, a single or double throw switch, or other type of switch. The electrical load(s) controlled or operated by the wireless switch 140, or that the switch is communicatively coupled to, may be different or the same as the electrical load(s) controlled or operated by the existing wall switch 14.

[0073] In some embodiments, the wireless wall switch 140 may control or be in

communication with other one or more other devices, such as light sensors, air quality sensors, air temperature sensors, water quality sensors, etc. This may be in addition to or separate from one or more other devices or other electrical loads that the wireless wall switch 140 is associated with. For example, a home may include one or more light sensors, air quality sensors, humidity sensors, air temperature sensors, etc. that can take measurements or readings and/or send data related to one or more previously taken measurements or readings when instructed to do so. A position of the wireless switch 140 may cause the wireless switch 140 to send a signal from the wireless switch 140 directly or indirectly to one or more sensors that instructs the sensors to send, or to take and send one or more measurements to one or more electrical loads, such as a controllable fan, light, window blind, etc., and send data to one or more devices (i.e., the electrical loads) such as lights, window blinds, fans, water filtration devices, etc. that then alter or govern the operation of such one or more devices. For example, if a person in a room puts the wireless switch into a certain position, or does a specific sequence of positions of the wireless switch, the wireless switch may send a signal to one or more air quality or air temperature sensors in the room. The sensors may measure the air quality and air temperature in the room and send a signal or other data indicative of the air temperature and air quality to an HVAC unit, a fan, a window blind, another environmental control device, or one or more other devices that can control the operation or settings of one more of such environmental control devices. If the air temperature is too high, or if the air quality is too poor, based on the sensor readings, the fan may be turned on or have its rotational speed increased, the HVAC system may turn on to cool the air temperature in the room or to remediate the air in the room due to low air quality, the window blind may lower to reduce the amount of natural light coming in to the room through the window, etc.

[0074] In another example, if a person in a room manipulates the wireless switch into a certain position or manipulates the wireless switch though a specific sequence of positions, the wireless switch may send a signal to one or more light sensors in the room to take a light reading. If the light intensity is too high, the window blind may be lowered in response to the light reading to reduce the amount of natural light coming in to the room through the window.

[0075] In some embodiments, a visual display may display one or more environmental readings obtained from the one or more sensors described above in response to a user manipulating the wireless switch into a certain position or manipulating the wireless switch though a specific sequence of positions. For example, a user may press the wireless switch one time to obtain a humidity reading from a humidity sensor in the room, which is displayed to the user on the visual display. If the humidity level is higher than desired, the user may press the wireless switch two times to activate the dehumidifier. Alternatively, the dehumidifier may already be operating, and the humidity level displayed may lower than desired. The user may then press the wireless switch for two seconds to turn off the dehumidifier. In some

embodiments, the one or more wireless switches controlling one or more environmental control devices in response to readings from one or more environmental sensors may override at least a portion of one or more environmental control programs that may be in place in a home or habitable space. For example, an HVAC system in a home may be programmed so that a room maintains a specific temperature, and a user manipulating the wireless switch may override the HVAC system’s temperature program by causing the HVAC system to increase or decrease the temperature in the room, for example, for a specific duration or until further user manipulation of the of the switch and/or the HVAC system.

[0076] In some embodiments, a different position of the wireless switch, or a sequence of specific movements of the wireless switch, may control the environmental control devices more directly. In some embodiments, if two wireless switches are included in the wireless switch assembly, one may be used to communicate directly or indirectly to one or more sensors and one may be used to communicate directly or indirectly with one or more environmental control devices. Alternatively, one wireless switch may be used to direct the environmental control device to get an updated reading and adjust accordingly, while the other wireless switch may control or adjust the operation (e.g., on or off) of the environmental control device more directly.

[0077] In some embodiments, wireless switch 140 may have a configuration similar to wireless switch 440 illustrated in FIG. 37. The electrical load may comprise the electrical load associated with the existing wall switch 14, or the electrical load may comprise a separate electrical load associated with another wired switch, or an electrical load (e.g., a light sensor, humidity level measurement sensor, air quality sensor) that is not associated with another wired switch. In some embodiments, the electrical load may have a configuration similar to electrical load 450 illustrated in FIG. 38.

[0078] Wireless switch 140 is generally configured to couple to the outer surface 121 of housing 120. Any suitable attractive material or combination of attractive materials may be used to couple wireless switch 140 to the outer surface 121 of housing 120. Suitable attractive materials may include, but are not limited to, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials such as glues and tapes, and the like. Preferably, the attractive material is a releasably attractive material permitting easy removal of wireless switch 140 from housing 120 without damaging either component. In one embodiment, wireless switch 140 may be coupled to the outer surface 121 of housing 120 by an amount of double-sided adhesive tape affixed to the proximal side 142 of wireless switch 140 and configured to adhere to the outer surface 121 of housing 120. In another embodiment, wireless switch 140 may be coupled to the outer surface 121 of housing 120 by a magnetic engagement.

[0079] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 10 to 12, the portion of the housing’s outer surface 121 coupled to wireless switch 140 may be a recessed portion 122 that is recessed a distance from the surrounding outer surface 121 of the housing 120. In such a configuration, at least a portion of wireless switch 140 may be nested or otherwise positioned in the surrounding outer surface 121 of housing 120, as shown best in FIGS. 11 and 12. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the recessed outer surface 122 of housing 120 may comprise an optional opening 125 therein, which may or may not be centered in the recessed portion 122 and which may or may not have the same general shape as the recessed portion 122. The opening 125 in housing 120 allows a user to manipulate the proximal side 142 of wireless switch 140 from the underside 123 of housing 120, which can simplify removal of wireless switch 140 from housing 120. In some embodiments, the recessed portion 122 may have a circular, oval, triangular, square, rectangular, polygonal, or other shape. In some embodiments the recessed portion 122 may have the same shape as the portion of the wireless switch 140 being inserted into it, or alternatively, may have a different shape from the portion of the wireless switch 140 being inserted into it.

[0080] Wireless wall switch assembly 100 may optionally include a face plate 130 (or facia) couplable to housing 120 in some embodiments. Face plate 130 is generally configured to cover outer surface 121 of housing 120 and includes an opening 132 through which wireless switch 140 can protrude when face plate 130 is coupled to housing 120, as shown in in FIGS. 8 and 10 to 12. In some configurations, easily permitting a user to change the face plate 130 allows the user to regularly alter and customize the appearance of the wireless wall switch assembly 100. In some approaches, face plate 130 is configured to house or otherwise include one or more electronic or mechanical attachments such as, for example, a user interface, a display unit, sensors, clips, hooks, mirror, small shelf, and the like.

[0081] Face plate 130 may be coupled to housing 120 by any suitable means. For example, face plate 130 may be coupled to outer surface 121 of housing 120 using any suitable attractive material or combination of attractive materials including, but not limited to, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials such as glues and tapes, and the like. Preferably, the attractive material is a releasably attractive material permitting easy removal of face plate 130 from housing 120 without damaging either component. In one embodiment, face plate 130 may be coupled to outer surface 121 of housing 120 by an amount of double-sided adhesive tape affixed to proximal side 133 of face plate 130 and configured to adhere to outer surface 121 of housing 120. In another embodiment, face plate 130 may be coupled to the outer surface 122 of housing 120 by a magnetic engagement.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment, face plate 130 may be coupled to housing 120 by a mechanical connection, such as, for example, a snap fit engagement. Referring to FIGS. 13 to 17, the snap fit engagement may comprise a plurality of snap fits 134 disposed along the proximal side 133 of face plate 130. When face plate 130 is coupled to housing 120, the snap fits 134 are configured to slide through a plurality of cutouts 127 in outer surface 121 of housing 120 and to engage a portion of the underside 123 of housing 120. The snap fits 134 and cutouts 127 may have any suitable dimensions.

[0083] In some embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the snap fits 134 and cutouts 127 may be elongated and may extend lengthwise and/or widthwise along a length and/or width of the face plate 130 and housing 120, respectively. In some embodiments, the snap fits 134 and cutouts 127 extend along at least a portion of all four sides of the face plate 130 and housing 120, respectively. To ensure a flush finish between face plate 130 and housing 120, the snap fits 134 may be configured to generally be in constant tension. For example, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, snap fits 134 may have an angled engagement face l34a. FIG. 17 shows snap fit 134 bending slightly, allowing the angled engagement face l34a to be pressing against underside 123 of housing 120.

[0084] In other embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 18 to 21, the snap fit engagement may comprise a plurality of more discreet or shorter snap fits 134 disposed along the proximal side 133 of face plate 130, a plurality of corresponding more discreet or shorter cutouts 127 in outer surface 121 of housing 120, and a plurality of discreet or shorter retention elements disposed on an underside of 123 of housing 120. As shown best in FIG. 19, the retention elements 128 have the shape of a small shelf formed on a recessed inner surface 126 of peripheral rim or side 124 of housing 120. In such a configuration, each snap fit 134 slides through a cutout 127 in housing 120 and clips onto a retention element 128 formed on recessed inner surface 126, as illustrated best in FIG. 21.

[0085] FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate another embodiment of a wireless wall switch assembly configured to be mounted over an existing wired wall switch. Wireless wall switch assembly 200 shown in FIGS. 22 and 23 may have a configuration and components that are substantially similar to the configuration and components of wireless wall switch assembly 100 described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 21, except that the wireless wall switch assembly 200 does not include a frame plate to facilitate mounting of the housing to an existing wall switch plate.

[0086] Wireless wall switch assembly 200 generally includes a housing 220, an optional face plate 230, and a wireless switch 240. Housing 220, face plate 230, and wireless switch 240 may have similar components and configurations as housing 120, face plate 130, and wireless switch 140 described above with respect reference to FIGS. 1 to 21. However, housing 220 differs from housing 120 in that housing 200 is configured to be mounted to an existing wall switch plate by way of an attractive material disposed on an underside 223 of housing 220, as illustrated in FIGS. 22 and 23. In one illustrative configuration, the wireless wall switch assembly 200 is secured to the wall and/or existing switch via a number of attractive materials, including, for example, double sided tape 205. The attractive material also may include, but not limited to, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials such as glues and tapes, and the like. Preferably, the attractive material comprises a releasably attractive material. The releasably attractive material is configured to allows a user to remove the housing 220 from the existing wall switch plate with minimal effort and without the use of tools, providing the user with ready access to the wired switch, as needed. In some embodiments, the attractive material comprises double-sided adhesive tape.

[0087] FIGS. 24 to 33 illustrate another embodiment of a wireless wall switch assembly. Wireless wall switch assembly 300 exemplified in FIGS. 24 to 33 is configured to be a standalone switch assembly that can be mounted on any suitable surface, rather than over an existing wired wall switch. As such, wireless wall switch assembly 300 may have any suitable shape. While the discussion below describes wireless wall switch assembly 300 being attachable to a wall, the assembly can be attached or otherwise adhered to a flat or other suitable surface.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, wireless wall switch assembly 300 generally includes an adhesive layer 305, a housing 320, an optional face plate 330, and a wireless switch 340. Referring to FIGS. 26 to 33, housing 320 includes a distal outer surface 321 facing away from the wall and a proximal underside 323 facing adhesive layer 305 when assembled as part of wireless wall switch assembly 300. Optional face plate 330 has a distal outer surface 331 facing away from the wall and a proximal side 333 facing outer surface 321 of housing 320 when assembled as part of wireless wall switch assembly 300. Wireless switch 340 has a distal end 341 facing away from the wall when assembled as part of wireless wall switch assembly 340 and proximal end 342 facing the opposite direction. The wireless switch 340 may be centered or uncentered relative to the housing 320, face plate 330, or peripheral rim or side 324.

[0089] Adhesive layer 305 is generally configured to attach or adhere to a flat or other suitable surface. For example, adhesive layer 305 may be configured to attach or adhere to a flat surface of a wall. Adhesive layer 305 is also configured to attach or otherwise adhere to underside 323 of housing 320. Adhesive layer 305 may be formed of any suitable material including, but not limited to, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials such as glues, epoxies, tapes, and the like. Preferably, adhesive layer 305 is formed of a releasably adhesive material permitting removal of the adhesive layer 305 without damaging the surface to which adhesive layer 305 is adhered. In some embodiments, adhesive layer 305 may comprise a layer of double-sided adhesive tape.

[0090] As described above, housing 320 includes distal outer surface 321 facing away from the wall. As shown best in FIGS. 31 and 33, a portion of outer surface 321 may include a recessed portion 332, which is recessed a distance from outer portion 321. As sown in FIGS. 31 and 32, housing 320 also includes a peripheral rim or side 324 extending away from the underside 323 of housing 320. In some embodiments, peripheral rim or side 324 may be of sufficient length such that when wireless wall switch assembly 300 is assembled and mounted on a wall such that adhesive layer 305 is attached or otherwise adhered to the wall surface, at least an edge of peripheral rim or side 324 contacts a wall surface surrounding adhesive layer 305. In some embodiments, some or all of peripheral rim or side 324 may extend or be positioned perpendicular to the wall or surface on which the wall switch assembly 300 is attached. In some embodiments, some or all of peripheral rim or side 324 may extend or be positioned non-perpendicular to the wall or surface on which the wall switch assembly 300 is attached.

[0091] Wireless wall switch assembly 300 further includes wireless switch 340

communicatively coupled, directly or indirectly, to an electrical load. Wireless switch 340 is generally configured to communicate, directly or indirectly, wirelessly using any suitable wireless protocol/technical standard including, but not limited to, Bluetooth, BLE, Wi-Fi (WLAN), Z-wave, Zigbee, Thread, 6L0WPAN, Infrared, mesh, and any suitable subsequently developed wireless protocol/technical standard. In some embodiments, wireless switch 340 may have a configuration similar to wireless switch 140 described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10 and/or wireless switch 440 illustrated in FIG. 37. In some embodiments, the electrical load may be associated with an existing wall switch. In some embodiments, the electrical load may have a configuration similar to electrical load 450 illustrated in FIG. 38.

[0092] Wireless switch 340 is generally configured to couple to an outer surface 321 of housing 320. Any suitable attractive material or combination of attractive materials may be used to couple wireless switch 340 to the outer surface 321 of housing 320. Suitable attractive materials may include, but are not limited to, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials such as glues and tapes, and the like. Preferably, the attractive material is a releasably attractive material permitting easy removal of wireless switch 340 from housing 320 without damaging either component. In one embodiment, wireless switch 340 may be coupled to an outer surface 321 of housing 320 by an amount of double-sided adhesive tape affixed to the proximal side 342 of wireless switch 340 and configured to adhere to the outer surface 321 of housing 320. In another embodiment, wireless switch 140 may be coupled to the outer surface 321 of housing 320 by a magnetic engagement.

[0093] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 31 and 33, the portion of the housing’s outer surface 321 coupled to wireless switch 340 may comprise recessed portion 322 that is recessed a distance from the surrounding outer surface 321 of the housing 320. In such a configuration, at least a portion of wireless switch 340 may be nested in the surrounding outer surface 321 of housing 320, as shown best in FIG. 31. As illustrated in this, and other embodiments herein, the nesting of the wireless switch 340 permits an aesthetically, pleasing lower profile for the user to access. As many, if not most, rooms users occupy on a daily basis have accessible switches that may be accessed numerous times throughout the day, the aesthetics of these features (and, indeed, of the entire switch) have a significant impact on those occupying the space. In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 31 and 33, the recessed outer surface 322 of housing 320 may comprise an opening 325 therein. The opening 325 in housing 320 allows a user to manipulate the proximal side 342 of wireless switch 340 from the underside 323 of housing 320, which can simplify removal of wireless switch 340 from housing 320.

[0094] Wireless wall switch assembly 300 may optionally include a face plate 330 (or facia) couplable to housing 320 in some embodiments. Face plate 330 is generally configured to cover outer surface 321 of housing 320 and includes an opening 332 through which wireless switch 340 can protrude when face plate 330 is coupled to housing 320, as shown in in FIGS.

31 and 33. In some approaches, face plate 330 may be configured to house or otherwise include one or more electronic or mechanical attachments such as, for example, a user interface, a display unit, sensors, clips, hooks, small shelf, mirror, and the like. In some embodiments, some or all of the face plate 330 may be parallel or non-parallel to the wall to which the wireless wall assembly 300 is attached.

[0095] Face plate 330 may be coupled to housing 320 by any suitable means. For example, face plate 330 may be coupled to outer surface 321 of housing 320 using any suitable attractive material or combination of attractive materials including, but not limited to, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials such as glues and tapes, and the like. Preferably, the attractive material is a releasably attractive material permitting easy removal of face plate 330 from housing 320 without damaging either component. In one embodiment, face plate 330 may be coupled to outer surface 321 of housing 320 by an amount of double-sided adhesive tape affixed to proximal side 333 of face plate 330 and configured to adhere to outer surface 321 of housing 320. In another embodiment, face plate 330 may be coupled to the outer surface 322 of housing 320 by a magnetic engagement.

[0096] In a preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 31 and 32, face plate 330 is coupled to housing 320 via a mechanical connection, such as, for example, by a snap fit engagement. Referring to FIGS. 31 to 33, the snap fit engagement may comprise a plurality of snap fits 334 disposed along the proximal side 333 of face plate 330. When face plate 330 is coupled to housing 320, the snap fits 334 are configured to slide through a plurality of cutouts 327 in outer surface 321 of housing 320 and to engage a portion of the underside 323 of housing 320. The snap fits 334 and cutouts 327 may have any suitable dimensions. In some embodiments, the snap fit engagement may comprise the snap fit engagement described above with reference to FIGS. 13 to 17 and/or the snap fit engagement described above with reference to FIGS. 18 to 21.

[0097] Embodiments of the wireless wall switch assemblies described herein may form part of a wireless wall switch system. The wireless wall switch system may include an electrical load that is wired to an existing wall switch, with the existing switch generally being coupled to an existing switch plate mounted on a wall. The existing wall switch may comprise any suitable switch or combination thereof including, but not limited to, a toggle switch, a rocker switch, a push button, a joystick switch, a slide switch, a limit switch, a float switch, and a rotary knob. The electrical load may include any electrical household device, fixture, appliance, or the like. For example, in one approach the electrical load may comprise a light source or a window blind or window transparency controller. In another approach, the electrical load may comprise a fan assembly, such as a ceiling fan. In some approaches, the system may include multiple same or different existing switches which wired to multiple same or different electrical loads.

[0098] As described above, the wireless switch system may include a wireless wall switch assembly. In some embodiments, the wireless wall switch assembly may be configured to be mounted over the existing wall switch and switch cover. For example, in some embodiments, the wireless wall switch assembly may comprise wireless wall switch assembly 100 described above with above with reference to FIGS. 1-21. In some embodiments, the wireless wall switch assembly comprises wireless wall switch assembly 200 described above with references to FIGS. 22 and 23. In other embodiments, the wireless wall switch assembly may be configured to be mounted to the wall itself, rather than over an existing wall switch. For example, the wireless switch assembly may comprise wireless wall switch assembly 300 described above with references to FIGS. 24 and 33.

[0099] Regardless of the configuration of the wireless wall switch assembly, the wireless wall switch assembly includes a wireless switch that is communicatively coupled to the electrical load. The wireless switch is generally configured to communicate, directly or indirectly, wirelessly using any suitable wireless protocol/technical standard including, but not limited to, Bluetooth, BLE, Wi-Fi (WLAN), Z-wave, Zigbee, Thread, 6L0WPAN, Infrared, mesh, and including any suitable subsequently developed wireless protocol/technical standard.

[00100] The wireless switch may be configured to transmit a wireless signal to the electrical load directly or indirectly. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 34, wireless switch 440 may communicate directly with electrical load 450. In other embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 35 and 36, wireless switch 440 may communicate indirectly with electrical load 450, for example, via a hub 460, a wired or wireless communications network 470, or a combination thereof. FIG. 37 illustrates a block diagram of an exemplary wireless switch 440, which may include a control circuit 445 and may further include a battery 446, a transmitter 447, and a memory 448 all coupled to control circuit 445. When a user manipulates wireless switch 440, for example to turn the electrical load 450 on or off, control circuit 445 causes transmitter 447 to transmit a wireless signal to a receiver associated with electrical load 450. The receiver may be directly or indirectly associated with electrical load 450.

[00101] The system further includes a control a control circuit communicatively coupled to the wireless switch and electrical load. The control circuit is configured to receive a signal from the wireless switch, convert the signal to an instruction, and execute the instruction by causing an operation (or a change in the operation) of the electrical load. As described above, the electrical load may include any electrical household device, fixture, appliance, or the like. In some embodiments, the electrical load comprises a light source, and the operation controlled by the control circuit comprises turning the light source on or off and/or increasing or decreasing an output of the light source. In some embodiments, the electrical load comprises a fan assembly, and the operation controlled by the control circuit comprises turning the fan assembly on or off and/or changing the rotational speed and/or direction of the fan assembly.

[00102] In one embodiment, the control circuit may be directly associated with the electrical load. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 38, electrical load 450 may comprise a control circuit 455 coupled to a memory 458, a receiver 459, and an optional battery 456. When a user manipulates wireless switch 440 to transmit a wireless signal to control a function of the electrical load 450, the wireless signal is received by receiver 459 and sent to control circuit 455. Control circuit 455 converts the signal to an instruction and executes the instruction by causing an operation or change of the electrical load 450.

[00103] In another embodiment, the control circuit may be associated with a central hub that is communicatively coupled to the electrical load. Such a scenario may arise, for example, when the wireless wall switch system described herein forms part of a comprehensive smart home system that is centrally controlled. As illustrated in FIG. 39, hub 460 may comprise a control circuit 465 coupled to a transmitter 467, a memory 468, a receiver 469, and an optional battery 466. When a user manipulates wireless switch 440 to transmit a wireless signal to control a function of the electrical load 450, the wireless signal is received by receiver 469 and sent to control circuit 465. Control circuit 465 converts the signal to an instruction and transmits the instruction to a wired or wireless receiver associated with the electrical load to cause an operation or change of the electrical load 450. In some embodiments, hub 460 may also include one or more user interfaces (not shown) to accept inputs from a user, which may be stored in memory 468.

[00104] In some approaches, the wireless wall switch system described herein may include a plurality of wireless switches that are associated with one or a plurality of existing wall switches and/or electrical loads. In some approaches, a first of the plurality of wireless switches may control or be in communication with a first electrical load and a second of the plurality of wireless switches may control or be in communication with a second electrical load.

[00105] Referring to FIG. 40, a method of converting a wired wall switch assembly to a wireless wall switch assembly is illustrated. The wired wall switch assembly generally includes an existing switch plate mounted to a wall and an existing wall switch associated with the switch plate. The existing wall switch is wired to control one or more electrical loads such as, for example, a light source, ceiling fan, or the like. The wireless wall switch assembly may comprise wireless wall switch assembly 100 described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 21.

[00106] In method 500, step 501 comprises adhering a frame plate comprising a magnetic material to a surface of the existing switch plate mounted to a wall. In other approaches, the frame plate may be adhered directly to the wall. The frame plate may comprise frame plate 110 described above with reference to wireless wall switch assembly 100. The frame plate may be formed of any suitable material including for example, various metals, plastics, composite materials, and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the frame plate is formed of steel. For example, the frame plate may be formed of powder-coated steel.

[00107] In some embodiments, the magnetic material may form the material of the frame plate or part of the matrix of the frame plate. In other embodiments, the frame plate may include a layer of magnetic material configured to adhered to the surface of the existing switch plate. For example, the layer of magnetic material may comprise a magnetic coating or paint disposed on the frame plate. Preferably, the magnetic attachment is releasable to allow a user to remove the frame plate from the existing wall switch plate without damaging either component.

[00108] In step 502, the frame plate is magnetically attached to a housing comprising a plurality of magnetic elements disposed on an underside of the housing. The housing may comprise housing 120 described above with reference to wireless wall switch assembly 100. In some embodiments, the plurality of magnetic elements may comprise discreet magnetic elements configured to reside in a plurality of bosses formed in the underside of the housing. The magnetic elements magnetically adhere the housing to the frame plate. Preferably, the magnetic adherence is releasably. While the magnetic adherence between the housing and the frame plate should be strong enough to maintain continued attachment when assembled, the magnetic adherence should not be so strong as to prevent a user from easily separating the housing from the frame plate by hand. The releasably magnetic adherence between the housing and the frame plate allows a user to remove the housing from the frame plate with minimal effort and potentially without the use of tools, providing the user with ready access to the wired switch, as needed. In some embodiments, the magnetic adherence between the housing and the frame plate may be stronger than the magnetic adherence between the frame plate and the existing wall switch plate.

[00109] In some embodiments, the housing may comprise a peripheral rim or side extending away from the underside of the housing. In some embodiments, the peripheral rim may surround the existing switch plate when the housing is installed over the existing wall switch assembly. The peripheral rim or side may be of sufficient length to provide a clearance between the underside of housing and the existing wall switch when the housing is installed over the existing wall switch assembly. In some embodiments, at least an edge of the housing may be proximal to or in contact with the wall surrounding the existing wall switch assembly. In some embodiments, a shape of an edge of the housing may correspond to a shape of an edge of the existing switch plate.

[00110] In step 503, a wireless switch is coupled to a first surface of the housing. The wireless switch may comprise wireless switch 140 described above with reference to wireless wall switch assembly 100. The wireless switch is communicatively coupled, directly or indirectly, to the electrical load associated with the existing wired switch. The wireless switch is generally configured to communicate wirelessly using any suitable wireless

protocol/technical standard including, but not limited to, Bluetooth, BLE, Wi-Fi (WLAN), Z- wave, Zigbee, Thread, 6L0WPAN, Infrared, mesh, and including any suitable subsequently developed wireless protocol/technical standard. In some embodiments, the wireless switch may have a configuration similar to wireless switch 440 illustrated in FIG. 37.

[00111] The wireless switch may be coupled to the first surface of the housing using any suitable attractive material or combination of attractive materials including, but not limited to, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials such as glues and tapes, and the like.

Preferably, the attractive material is a releasably attractive material permitting easy removal of the wireless switch from the housing without damaging either component. In one embodiment, the wireless switch may be coupled to the first surface of the housing by an amount of double- sided adhesive tape. In another embodiment, the wireless switch may be coupled to the first surface of the housing by a magnetic engagement.

[00112] The first surface of the housing generally faces away from the wall when the housing is magnetically attached to the frame plate that is magnetically attached to the existing switch plate mounted on the wall. In some embodiments, the first surface of the housing is recessed a distance from a surrounding second surface of the housing so that at least a portion of the wireless switch may be nested in the surrounding second surface of the housing. In some embodiments, the recessed first surface of the housing may comprise an opening therein. This opening in the housing allows a user to manipulate the wireless switch from the underside of housing when the housing is removed from the frame plate, which can simplify removal of the wireless switch from the housing. [00113] In optional step 504, a face plate comprising an opening therein is coupled to the housing, wherein the face plate is configured to cover the second surface of the housing surrounding the first surface of the housing so that the wireless switch coupled to the first surface protrudes through the opening in the face plate. The face plate may comprise face plate 130 described above with reference to wireless wall switch assembly 100.

[00114] The face plate may be coupled to the housing using any suitable attractive material or combination of attractive materials including, but not limited to, a mechanical connection, like a snap fit engagement, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials such as glues and tapes, and the like. Preferably, the attractive material is a releasably attractive material permitting easy removal of the face plate from the housing without damaging either component. In one embodiment, the face plate may be coupled to the second surface of the housing by an amount of double-sided adhesive tape. In another embodiment, the face plate may be coupled to the second surface of the housing by a magnetic engagement. In a preferred embodiment, the face plate may be coupled to the housing by a snap fit engagement.

Exemplary snap fit engagements are described above with reference to FIGS. 13 to 21.

[00115] Referring to FIG. 41, a method of installing a wireless wall switch assembly over an existing wired switch assembly is illustrated. The existing wired switch assembly generally includes an existing switch plate mounted to a wall and an existing wall switch associated with the switch plate. The existing wall switch is wired to control one or more electrical loads such as, for example, a light source, ceiling fan, or the like. The wireless wall switch assembly may comprise wireless wall switch assembly 100 described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 21.

[00116] In method 600, step 601 comprises establishing that the existing wall switch for the electrical load is in an“on” position. Ensuring that the electrical load is switched to an“on” position allows continuous power to the load and allows a user to further control the load using a wireless switch communicatively coupled to the electrical load.

[00117] In step 602, a frame plate with a first attractive material disposed on a first side and a second attractive material on a second side is secured to the existing switch plate (or the wall around the switch plate), wherein the first attractive material secures the frame plate to the existing switch plate mounted to a wall. The frame plate may comprise frame plate 110 described above with reference to wireless wall switch assembly 100. The first side of the frame plate generally faces the wall and the second side of the frame plate generally faces away from the wall when the frame plate is attached to the existing switch plate. The frame plate may be formed of any suitable material including for example, various metals, plastics, composite materials, and combinations thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the frame plate is formed of steel. For example, the frame plate may be formed of powder-coated steel.

[00118] The first and second attractive materials may comprise any suitable attractive material or combination of attractive materials including, but not limited to, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials such as glues and tapes, and the like. Preferably, the first attractive material is a releasably attractive material permitting easy removal of the frame plate from the existing switch plate without damaging either component. In one embodiment, the first attractive material that secures the frame plate to the existing switch plate may comprise an amount of double-sided adhesive tape disposed on the first side of the frame plate. In another embodiment, the first attractive material that secures the frame plate to the existing switch plate may comprise a magnetic material or coating disposed on the first side of the frame plate.

[00119] The second attractive material on the second side of the frame plate may comprise a magnetic material. In one embodiment, the magnetic material may comprise a metallic material used to form the frame plate. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the frame plate may be formed of steel, and the second surface of the frame plate comprising steel may form the second attractive material, which can adhere to another magnetic material having an opposite polarity.

[00120] In step 603, a housing with a third attractive material is coupled to the frame plate via the second attractive material being attracted to the third attractive material. The housing may comprise housing 120 described above with reference to wireless wall switch assembly 100. The housing may be formed of any suitable material. The housing has an underside that faces the wall and an outer surface that faces away from the wall when the housing is coupled to the face plate. The third attractive material is generally disposed on the underside of the housing.

[00121] The third attractive material may comprise any suitable attractive material or combination of attractive materials including, but not limited to, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials such as glues, epoxies, tapes, and the like. In one embodiment, the third attractive material comprises magnetic material layered on the underside of the housing. In another embodiment, the third attractive material comprises a plurality of magnetic elements disposed on the underside of the housing. The plurality of magnetic elements may comprise discreet magnetic elements configured to reside in a plurality of bosses formed in the underside of the housing. In both embodiments, the magnetic material/elements disposed on the underside of the housing are of an opposite polarity to the second attractive material disposed on the second side of the frame plate. The attraction between the magnetic material/elements disposed on the underside of the housing and the second attractive material disposed on the second side of the frame plate magnetically adheres the housing to the frame plate. Preferably, the magnetic adherence is releasable. While the magnetic adherence between the housing and the frame plate should be strong enough to maintain continued attachment when assembled, the magnetic adherence should not be so strong as to prevent a user from easily separating the housing from the frame plate by hand. The releasably magnetic adherence between the housing and the frame plate allows a user to remove the housing from the frame plate with minimal effort and potentially without the use of tools, providing the user with ready access to the wired switch, as needed.

[00122] In some embodiments, the housing may comprise a peripheral rim or side extending away from the underside of the housing. In some embodiments, the peripheral rim or side may surround the existing switch plate when the housing is installed over the existing wall switch assembly. The peripheral rim or side may be of sufficient length to provide a clearance between the underside of housing and the existing wall switch when the housing is installed over the existing wall switch assembly. In some embodiments, at least an edge of the housing may be proximal to or in contact with the wall surrounding the existing wall switch assembly. In some embodiments, a shape of an edge of the housing may correspond to a shape of an edge of the existing switch plate.

[00123] In step 604, a wireless switch is coupled to a first portion of an outer surface of the housing. The wireless switch may comprise wireless switch 140 described above with reference to wireless wall switch assembly 100. The wireless switch is communicatively coupled, directly or indirectly, to the electrical load associated with the existing wired switch. The wireless switch is generally configured to communicate wirelessly using any suitable wireless protocol/technical standard including, but not limited to, Bluetooth, BLE, Wi-Fi (WLAN), Z- wave, Zigbee, Thread, 6L0WPAN, Infrared, mesh, and including any suitable subsequently developed wireless protocol/technical standard. In some embodiments, the wireless switch may have a configuration similar to wireless switch 440 illustrated in FIG. 37.

[00124] The wireless switch may be coupled to a first portion of the outer surface of the housing using any suitable attractive material or combination of attractive materials including, but not limited to, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials such as glues and tapes, and the like. Preferably, the attractive material is a releasably attractive material permitting easy removal of the wireless switch from the housing without damaging either component. In one embodiment, the wireless switch may be coupled to the first portion of the outer surface of the housing by an amount of double-sided adhesive tape. In another embodiment, the wireless switch may be coupled to the first portion of the outer surface of the housing by a magnetic engagement.

[00125] In some embodiments, the first portion of the outer surface of the housing is recessed a distance from a surrounding second portion of the outer surface of the housing so that at least a portion of the wireless switch may be nested in the surrounding second portion of the surface of the housing. In some embodiments, the recessed first portion of the outer surface of the housing may comprise an opening therein. This opening in the housing allows a user to manipulate the wireless switch from the underside of housing when the housing is removed from the frame plate, which can simplify removal of the wireless switch from the housing.

[00126] In optional step 605, a face plate is coupled to the housing. The face plate has an opening disposed therein exposing the wireless switch, which can be accessed by a user to operate the electrical load associated with the existing wall switch. The face plate is generally configured to cover the second portion of the outer surface of the housing surrounding the first portion of the outer surface of the housing so that the wireless switch coupled to the first portion protrudes through the opening in the face plate. The face plate may comprise face plate 130 described above with reference to wireless wall switch assembly 100.

[00127] The face plate may be coupled to the housing using any suitable attractive material or combination of attractive materials including, but not limited to, a mechanical connection, like a snap fit engagement, magnetic materials/elements, adhesive materials such as glues and tapes, and the like. Preferably, the attractive material is a releasably attractive material permitting easy removal of the face plate from the housing without damaging either component. In one embodiment, the face plate may be coupled to the second portion of the outer surface of the housing by an amount of double-sided adhesive tape. In another embodiment, the face plate may be coupled to the second portion of the outer surface of the housing by a magnetic engagement. In a preferred embodiment, the face plate may be coupled to the housing by a snap fit engagement. Exemplary snap fit engagements are described above with reference to FIGS. 13 to 21.

[00128] Those skilled in the art will recognize that a wide variety of other modifications, alterations, and combinations can also be made with respect to the above described

embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention, and that such modifications, alterations, and combinations are to be viewed as being within the ambit of the inventive concept.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A wireless wall switch assembly comprising:

a frame plate comprising a magnetic material and adherable to an existing switch plate mounted on a wall;

a housing comprising a plurality of magnetic elements disposed on an underside of the housing and arranged to allow releasable magnetic adherence of the housing to the frame plate; a wireless switch couplable to a first surface of the housing; and

a face plate couplable to the housing and configured to cover a second surface of the housing surrounding the first surface and comprising an opening therein to allow the wireless switch to protrude through the opening in the face plate when the wireless switch is coupled to the first surface of the housing.

2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the frame plate comprises an adhesive material disposed on a proximal surface of the frame plate.

3. The assembly of claim 2 wherein the adhesive material is releasable.

4. The assembly of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the magnetic material is disposed on a distal surface of the frame plate.

5. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the wireless switch is couplable to the first surface of the housing by an adhesive material.

6. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the adhesive material is a releasably adhesive material.

7. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the face plate is couplable to the housing by a snap fit engagement.

8. The assembly of claim 7, wherein the snap fit engagement comprises a plurality of snap fits disposed along an underside of the face plate and configured to slide through a plurality of cutouts in the second portion of the outer surface of the housing and to engage with a portion of the underside of the housing.

9. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the face plate is couplable to the housing by a magnetic engagement.

10. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the housing further comprises a side extending away from the underside of the housing, the side configured to surround the existing switch plate and to provide a clearance between the underside of the housing and an existing wall switch coupled to the existing switch plate.

11. The assembly of claim 10, wherein the existing wall switch comprises at least one of a toggle switch, a rocker switch, a push button, a joystick switch, a slide switch, a limit switch, a float switch, and a rotary knob.

12. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the first surface of the housing is recessed a distance from the surrounding second surface of the housing such that a least a portion of the wireless switch is nested in the second surface of the housing and the face plate.

13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein the recessed first surface of the housing comprises an opening therein.

14. The assembly of claim 1, wherein at least an edge of the housing is proximal to or in contact with a wall.

15. The assembly of claim 1, wherein a shape of an edge of the housing corresponds to a shape of an edge of the existing switch plate.

16. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the wireless switch is wirelessly connected to an electrical load wired to the existing wall switch

17. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the face plate includes one or more electronic attachments.

18. A method of converting a wired wall switch assembly to a wireless wall switch assembly, the method comprising:

adhering a frame plate comprising a magnetic material to a surface of an existing switch plate mounted to a wall;

magnetically attaching to the frame plate a housing comprising a plurality of magnetic elements disposed on an underside of the housing;

coupling a wireless switch to a first surface of the housing; and

coupling a face plate comprising an opening therein to the housing, wherein the face plate is configured to cover a second surface of the housing surrounding the first surface of the housing so that the wireless switch coupled to the first surface protrudes through the opening in the face plate.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the frame plate comprises an adhesive material disposed on a proximal surface of the frame plate.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein the adhesive material is a releasably adhesive material.

21. The method of claim 18, wherein the magnetic material is disposed on a distal surface of the frame plate.

22. The method of claim 18, wherein the wireless switch is coupled to the first surface of the housing by an adhesive material.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the adhesive material is a releasably adhesive material.

24. The method of claim 18, wherein the face plate is coupled to the housing by a snap fit engagement.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein the snap fit engagement comprises a plurality of snap fits disposed along an underside of the face plate and configured to slide through a plurality of cutouts in the second portion of the outer surface of the housing and to engage with a portion of the underside of the housing.

26. The method of claim 18, wherein the face plate is coupled to the housing by a magnetic engagement.

27. The method of claim 18, wherein the housing further comprises a side extending away from the underside of the housing, the side configured to surround the existing switch plate and to provide a clearance between the underside of the housing and an existing wall switch coupled to the existing switch plate.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the existing wall switch comprises at least one of a toggle switch, a rocker switch, a push button, a joystick switch, a slide switch, a limit switch, a float switch, and a rotary knob.

29. The method of claim 18, wherein the first surface of the housing is recessed a distance from the surrounding second surface of the housing such that the wireless switch is nested in the second surface and the face plate.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the recessed first surface of the housing comprises an opening therein.

31. The method of claim 18, wherein at least an edge of the housing is proximal to or in contact with a wall.

32. The method of claim 18, wherein a shape of an edge of the housing corresponds to a shape of an edge of the existing switch plate.

33. The method of claim 18, wherein the wireless switch is wirelessly connected to an electrical load wired to the existing wall switch

34. The method of claim 18, wherein the face plate includes one or more electronic attachments.

35. A wireless wall switch system comprising:

an electrical load wired to an existing wall switch, the existing wall switch coupled to an existing switch plate mounted on a wall;

a wireless wall switch assembly configured to be mounted over the existing wall switch and switch cover, the wireless wall assembly comprising:

a frame plate comprising a magnetic material and configured to adhere to a surface of an existing switch plate mounted on a wall;

a housing comprising a plurality of magnetic elements disposed on an underside of the housing and arranged to magnetically attach the housing to the frame plate;

a wireless switch attached to a first surface of the housing and communicatively coupled to the electrical load;

a face plate coupled to the housing and configured to cover a second surface of the housing surrounding the first surface and comprising an opening therein so that the wireless switch coupled to the first surface protrudes through the opening in the face plate; and

a control circuit configured to:

receive a signal from the wireless switch;

convert the signal to an instruction; and

execute the instruction by causing an operation of the electrical load.

36. The system of claim 35, wherein the wireless switch is indirectly coupled to the electrical load.

37. The system of claim 35, wherein the wireless switch is directly coupled to the electrical load.

38. The system of claim 35, wherein the electrical load comprises a light source, and the operation comprises turning the light source on or off.

39. The system of claim 35, wherein the electrical load comprises a light source, and the operation comprises increasing or decreasing an output of the light source.

40. The system of claim 35, wherein the electrical load comprises a fan assembly, and the operation comprises turning the fan assembly on or off.

41. The system of claim 26, wherein the electrical load comprises a fan assembly, and the operation comprises changing the rotational speed and/or direction of the fan assembly.

42. The system of claim 35, wherein the frame plate comprises an adhesive material disposed on a proximal surface of the frame plate.

43. The system of claim 35, wherein the adhesive material is a releasably adhesive material.

44. The system of claim 35, wherein the magnetic material is disposed on a distal surface of the frame plate.

45. The system of claim 35, wherein the wireless switch is coupled to the first surface of the housing by an adhesive material.

46. The system of claim 35, wherein the adhesive material is a releasably adhesive material.

47. The system of claim 35, wherein the face plate is coupled to the housing by a snap fit engagement.

48. The system of claim 47, wherein the snap fit engagement comprises a plurality of snap fits disposed along an underside of the face plate and configured to slide through a plurality of cutouts in the second portion of the outer surface of the housing and to engage with a portion of the underside of the housing.

49. The system of claim 35, wherein the face plate is coupled to the housing by a magnetic engagement.

50. The system of claim 35, wherein the housing further comprises a side extending away from the underside of the housing, the side configured to surround the existing switch plate and to provide a clearance between the underside of the housing and the existing wall switch.

51. The system of claim 50, wherein the existing wall switch comprises at least one of a toggle switch, a rocker switch, a push button, a joystick switch, a slide switch, a limit switch, a float switch, and a rotary knob.

52. The system of claim 35, wherein the first surface of the housing is recessed a distance from the surrounding second portion surface of the housing such that the wireless switch is nested in the second surface of the housing and the face plate.

53. The system of claim 52, wherein the recessed first surface of the housing comprises an opening therein.

54. The system of claim 35, further comprising a plurality of wireless switches associated with a plurality of existing wall switches.

55. The system of claim 54, wherein a first of the plurality of wireless switches controls a first electrical load and a second of the plurality of wireless switches controls a second electrical load.

56. The system of claim 35, wherein at least an edge of the housing is proximal to or in contact with a wall.

57. The system of claim 35, wherein a shape of an edge of the housing corresponds to a shape of an edge of the existing switch plate.

58. The system of claim 35, wherein the wireless switch is wirelessly connected to an electrical load wired to the existing wall switch

59. The system of claim 35, wherein the face plate includes one or more electronic attachments.

60. A method of installing a wireless wall switch assembly over an existing wired switch assembly, the method comprising:

establishing an existing wall switch for an electrical load is in an“on” position;

securing a frame plate with a first attractive material disposed on a first side and a second attractive material on a second side, wherein the first attractive material secures the frame plate to the existing switch plate mounted to a wall;

coupling a housing with a third attractive material to the frame plate via the second attractive material being attracted to the third attractive material;

coupling a wireless switch to a first portion of an outer surface of the housing; and coupling a face plate to the housing, the face plate having an opening disposed therein exposing the wireless switch, which can be accessed by a user to operate the electrical load associated with the existing wall switch.