AU2017236017A1

AU2017236017A1 - Electrical outlet faceplate and system

Info

Publication number: AU2017236017A1
Application number: AU2017236017A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Jason Fry; David Owen
Original assignee: Schneider Electric Australia Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Schneider Electric Australia Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2016-09-30
Filing date: 2017-09-29
Publication date: 2018-04-19
Also published as: AU2017101937A4; AU2022275434A1

Abstract

Disclosed is an electric switch and outlet system, method and apparatus for providing a convenient and flexible means of tailoring functionality according to the user's requirements. There is provided a base unit for connecting to mains or supply power and for mounting to a surface such as a wall. Also provided is a cover unit for connection to the base unit which in some embodiments is a face plate which includes a light source and in some embodiments, also includes a presence detector. The cover unit interfaces with the base unit to provide required functionalities. Cover units can be replaced with other cover units to conveniently provide different functionalities.

Description

ELECTRICAL OUTLET FACEPLATE AND SYSTEM

PRIORITY

[0001] This application claims priority from Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2016903981 filed on 30 September 2016.

[0002] The entire content of this provisional patent application is hereby incorporated by reference.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0003] The following publications are referred to in the present application: PCT Application No. PCT/AU2014/000545 entitled “Electrical Connector, System and Method” PCT/AU12014/000544 entitled “Batten Holder, Connector, System and Method” PCT/AU12011/001675 entitled “Touch Switch” PCT/AU2013/001274 entitled “General Power Outlet and Remote Switch Module” PCT Application No. PCT/AU2011/001532 entitled “USB Outlet Charger”

Australian Patent Application No 2015275225 entitled “Electrical System, Apparatus and Method”;

Australian Patent Application No 2015275226 entitled “Inductive Power Transfer In an Electrical Outlet”;

Australian Patent Application No 2015275232 entitled “Connection System and Method for Electrical Outlets”;

Australian Patent Application No 2015275227 entitled “Switch Assembly, System and Method”;

Australian Patent Application No 2015275234 entitled “Push Button Switch Assembly And Operational Part”;

Australian Patent Application No 2015275233 entitled “Switch Assembly with Rotatable Operational Part”

Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2016903983 entitled “Electrical Outlet Faceplate and System”, filed on 30 September 2016;

Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2016903982 entitled “Electrical Outlet Faceplate and System” filed on 30 September 2016;

Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2016903986 entitled “Moisture Resistance for Electrical Plate System” filed on 30 September 2016;

Australian Provisional Patent Application No 2016902592 entitled “Electrical Device With Light Emitting Diode” and

Australian Patent Application No. 2016235020 entitled “Connectors For Electrical System” filed on 30 September 2016; all in the name of Schneider Electric (Australia) Pty Limited.

[0004] The entire content of each of these documents is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0005] The present application relates to electrical power outlets and faceplates. BACKGROUND

[0006] Many buildings have one or more electrical outlets, wall boxes and/or switch plates which allow a user in the building to access electrical power to operate electrical devices such as vacuum cleaners, computers or televisions, or to control one or more electrical devices such as lights.

[0007] As building automation becomes more prevalent, more control functionality becomes available.

[0008] Currently, once installed, electrical installations such as power outlets and faceplates are generally fixed and are difficult to change or modify without the use of appropriately qualified personnel. This limits the options available to a user and increases costs and complexity if any modifications are required to be made.

SUMMARY

[0009] According to a first aspect, there is provided a face plate for connection to a grid plate, the face plate comprising a light source.

[0010] In some embodiments, the face plate comprises a presence detector for controlling the light source in response to detecting a presence.

[0011] In some embodiments, the presence detector is a movement detector.

[0012] In some embodiments, the face plate comprises a mode selector switch for selecting between a plurality of modes of operation.

[0013] In some embodiments the plurality of modes comprises a night light and movement detection mode, and a movement detection only mode [0014] In some embodiments the face plate comprises a light level adjuster for selecting a light level at which the movement detector operates.

[0015] In some embodiments, the face plate comprises a shield to obscure at least a portion of a sensor of the presence detector.

[0016] In some embodiments the amount of the presence detector that is obscured by the shield is variable.

[0017] In some embodiments a cover unit power input for receiving power from a base unit power output of the grid plate.

[0018] In some embodiments the cover unit power input comprises an electrical plug for insertion into the base unit power output being an electric socket.

[0019] In some embodiments the cover unit power input is a second side of an inductive power transfer system for receiving power from the base unit power output being a first side of the inductive power transfer system.

[0020] In some embodiments the face plate comprises an internal power supply.

[0021] In some embodiments the internal power supply is one or more batteries.

[0022] In some embodiments the face plate comprises a protrusion for engaging with and actuating a switch interface on the grid plate upon connection of the face plate to the grid plate, for providing power the cover unit power input from the base unit power output.

[0023] In some embodiments the face plate comprises functional circuitry powered by power received by the cover unit power input.

[0024] In some embodiments the face plate comprises functional circuitry powered by power received from the internal power supply.

[0025] In some embodiments the face plate comprises a power connector receiver for aligning with a further base unit power output and for receiving a power connector from an external device.

[0026] In some embodiments the face plate comprises a user switch interface for engaging with and actuating a second switch interface of the grid plate associated with a second switch for controlling power to the further base unit power output.

[0027] According to a second aspect, there is provided a light source integrated into a face plate for connection to a grid plate.

[0028] In some embodiments the light source comprises a presence detector for controlling the light source.

[0029] According to a third aspect, there is provided a system comprising: a grid plate; and a face plate according to the first aspect.

[0030] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of connecting a light source to a grid plate comprising at least one base unit power output, the method comprising: aligning a cover unit power input of a face plate comprising the light source with the at least one base unit power output of the grid plate; and connecting the cover unit power input with the base unit power output.

[0031] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a cover unit comprising: a cover connector for connecting the cover unit to a base unit, the base unit comprising a mounting region for mounting to a surface; a base supply power input for receiving supply power; a base power converter for converting the received supply power to an output power; and a base unit power output for outputting the output power to the cover unit; and a light source for emitting light.

[0032] According to a sixth aspect, there is provided a face plate for connection to a grid plate comprising: at least one face plate connector for connecting the face plate to the grid plate; and a light source for emitting light.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0033] Embodiments of the various aspects described herein will be detailed with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: [0034] Figure 1A - shows a perspective front view of a generic embodiment of a base unit according to one aspect; [0035] Figure IB - shows a perspective rear view of the base unit of Figure 1A; [0036] Figure 2 - shows an example of one type of power converter suitable for use with one embodiment of the base unit; [0037] Figure 3A - shows a side view of the base unit with power input; [0038] Figure 3B - shows a front perspective view of the base unit with an embodiment of a transmitter coil; [0039] Figure 3C - shows a front perspective view of the base unit with another embodiment of the transmitter coil; [0040] Figure 4 - shows a system block diagram of a first side of an inductive power transfer system according to one embodiment; [0041] Figure 5 - shows a system block diagram of a first side of an inductive power transfer system according to another embodiment; [0042] Figure 6 - shows a base unit according to another embodiment, including a base supply power output; [0043] Figure 7 - shows a perspective rear view of a cover unit according to one embodiment; [0044] Figure 8 A - shows a perspective rear view of a cover unit according to another embodiment; [0045] Figure 8B - shows a perspective rear view of a cover unit according to another embodiment; [0046] Figure 9 - shows a systems block diagram of a second side of the inductive power transfer according to one embodiment; [0047] Figure 10 - shows a systems block diagram of a second side of the inductive power transfer according to another embodiment with communications functionality; [0048] Figure 11 - shows a side view of a cover unit connected to a base unit to allow power and/or data to be transferred between the two units inductively; [0049] Figure 12 - shows a systems block diagram of the first side and the second side of the inductive power transfer system according to one aspect; [0050] Figure 13 - shows an embodiment of the base unit with a base switch interface; [0051] Figure 14A - shows a generalised exploded view of the two sub-assemblies of a switch assembly according to one aspect; [0052] Figure 14B - shows a generalised exploded view of the main components of the two sub-assemblies of the switch assembly of Figure 14A; [0053] Figure 15A - is a perspective front view of one embodiment of a switch system with assembly (push-button switch assembly) according to a first aspect; [0054] Figure 15B - is a perspective rear view of the embodiment of Figure 15A; [0055] Figure 16A - is a perspective front view of another embodiment of a switch system with switch assembly (rocker switch assembly); [0056] Figure 16B - is a perspective rear view of the embodiment of Figure 16A; [0057] Figure 17 - is a perspective top view of an interface included in the switch assembly; [0058] Figure 18 - is a cross-sectional view, along line A-A’ in Figure 15A, of a combination of a functional part, the interface and an operational part within the embodiment of Figure 15A; [0059] Figure 19 - is a cross sectional view of the switch system along the line A-A’ of Figure 16A including the base unit and cover unit; [0060] Figure 20A - is a cross-sectional view, along line B-B’ in Figure 16A, of a combination of a functional part, the interface and an operational part in the embodiment of Figure 16A; [0061] Figure 20B - is a perspective top view of the interface in Figure 20A for reference; [0062] Figure 21 - is a cross sectional view of the switch system along the line B-B’ of Figure 16A including the base unit and cover unit; [0063] Figure 22A - is a perspective top view of a combination of a functional part, an interface and an operational part included in a rotary switch assembly according to another embodiment; [0064] Figure 22B - is a perspective side view of a combination of the functional part, the interface and an operational part included in the switch assembly of Figure 22A; [0065] Figure 23 - is a front perspective view of a cover unit or switch plate with a rotary switch; [0066] Figure 24 - is a perspective side view of the switch assembly with rotary switch from a different angle to that shown in Figure 22A; [0067] Figure 25A - is a front perspective view of the switch system with a toggle switch according to another embodiment; [0068] Figure 25B - is a rear perspective view of the switch system with a toggle switch of Figure 25A; [0069] Figure 26 - is a sectional view of a combination of a functional part, an interface and an operational part included in a toggle switch assembly according to the embodiment of Figure 25; [0070] Figure 27A - is an exploded perspective front view of a switch assembly (a pushbutton switch assembly) according to another aspect; [0071] Figure 27B - is an exploded perspective rear view of the switch assembly according to the embodiment of Figure 27A; [0072] Figure 28A - is an exploded perspective front view of a switch assembly (a rocker switch assembly) according to another aspect; [0073] Figure 28B - is an exploded perspective rear view of the switch assembly according to the embodiment of Figure 28A; [0074] Figure 29 - shows an example of a round rocker switch being converted to a square rocker switch; [0075] Figure 30 - shows a front perspective view of a base unit with a data input; [0076] Figure 31 - shows a front perspective view of a base unit with a base data output; [0077] Figure 32 - shows a front perspective view of a base unit with a base supply power output; [0078] Figure 33 - shows a cover unit with a cover connector; [0079] Figure 34 - shows a cover unit with a cover unit power input; [0080] Figure 35 - shows a cover unit with a user interface; [0081] Figure 36 - shows a cover unit with a cover unit data input; [0082] Figure 37- shows a cover unit with a cover data output; [0083] Figure 38 - shows a cover unit with a cover switch interface; [0084] Figure 39 - shows a system according to one embodiment; [0085] Figure 40 - shows a system according to another embodiment.

[0086] Figure 41 - shows a general embodiment of a cover unit according to another aspect, in which the cover unit power input is provided integral with the cover unit; [0087] Figure 42A - shows a rear view of an embodiment of the cover unit as a face plate; [0088] Figure 42B - shows a front view of the arrangement of Figure 42A; [0089] Figure 43 - shows an embodiment of the base unit as a grid plate; [0090] Figure 44 -shows another embodiment of the face plate of Figure 42A with a protrusion for engaging and actuating a switch interface; [0091] Figure 45 A - shows a rear view of another embodiment of the face plate of Figure 42A with a power connector receiver and aperture; [0092] Figure 45B - shows a front view of the face plate of Figure 45A; [0093] Figure 46A - shows a rear view of the face plate of Figure 45A with a user interface in the aperture; [0094] Figure 46B - shows a front view of the face plate of Figure 46A; [0095] Figure 47 - shows another embodiment of the cover unit of Figure 41; [0096] Figure 48 - shows another embodiment of the cover unit of Figure 41; [0097] Figure 49 - shows another embodiment of the cover unit of Figure 48; [0098] Figure 50 - shows another embodiment of the cover unit of Figure 41; [0099] Figure 51 - shows another embodiment of the cover unit of Figure 41; [00100] Figure 52 - shows another embodiment of the cover unit of Figure 41; [00101] Figure 53 - shows another embodiment ofthe cover unit of Figure 41; [00102] Figure 54 - shows an embodiment of the base unit provided as a grid plate; [00103] Figure 55 shows another embodiment of the base unit provided as grid plate; [00104] Figure 56 - shows an embodiment of a system with the base unit and cover unit according to the aspect of Figure 41; [00105] Figure 57 - is a flow chart of steps of a method of connecting a face plate to a grid plate; [00106] Figure 58 - shows a general arrangement of the cover unit according to another aspect; [00107] Figure 59 - shows an embodiment of the cover unit of Figure 58 as a face plate; [00108] Figure 60 - shows another embodiment of the face plate of Figure 59; [00109] Figure 61 - shows another embodiment of the face plate of Figure 59; [00110] Figure 62 - shows another embodiment of the face plate of Figure 59; [00111] Figure 63 - shows another embodiment of the face plate of Figure 62; [00112] Figure 64A - shows the interaction between the protrusion and switch interface in a first state; [00113] Figure 64B - shows the interaction between the protrusion and switch interface in a second state; [00114] Figure 65 - shows a general embodiment of the cover unit according to another aspect; [00115] Figure 66 - shows a general embodiment of the cover unit according to another aspect; [00116] Figure 67 - shows a general embodiment of the cover unit according to another aspect; [00117] Figure 68A - shows a front view of an embodiment of the cover unit of Figure 65 as a face plate; [00118] Figure 68B - shows a rear view of an embodiment of the face plate of Figure 68A; [00119] Figure 69 - shows a rear view of another embodiment of the face plate of Figure 68A; [00120] Figure 70 - shows a front view of an embodiment of the cover unit of Figure 67 as a face plate; [00121] Figure 71A - shows a front view of another embodiment of the face plate of Figure 70; [00122] Figure 71B - shows a rear view of the face plate of Figure 71A; [00123] Figure 72 - shows a front view of another embodiment of the face plate of Figure 71A with an adjustable detector sensor shield; [00124] Figure 73 - shows the effect of the sensor shield of Figure 72 in creating a “blind” region; [00125] Figure 74 - is a system block diagram of the functional elements of the face plate of Figures 71A and 71B; [00126] Figure 75 - is a flowchart of the operation of the processor in the block diagram of Figure 74; and [00127] Figure 76 - is a circuit schematic of an embodiment of the block diagram of Figure 74.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[00128] In one aspect described herein, there is provided a base unit 100 for mounting to a surface and for electrical connection to a mains or supply power. Figure 1A shows a front perspective view of a general embodiment of base unit 100 and Figure IB shows a rear perspective view of the base unit 100 of Figure 1A. In one aspect, the base unit 100 comprises a mounting region 110 for mounting the base unit 100 to the surface. In some embodiments, the surface is a wall. In some other embodiments, the surface is a floor. In some other embodiments, the surface is a wall of a box or other enclosure. In other embodiments, the surface is a frame for supporting the base unit.

[00129] In some embodiments, the mounting region 110 is itself a surface which will come into contact with the surface to which the base unit 100 is to be mounted. In other embodiments, the mounting region 110 is a pin, tab or other connector.

[00130] As shown in Figure 1A, base unit 100 also comprises a base connector 120 for connecting the base unit to a cover unit 200 as will be described in more detail below. The base connector is shown generically in Figure 1A but can take on any form that allows connection of the cover unit to the base unit 100. Such forms include a recess for receiving a protrusion from the cover unit, a protrusion for being received in a corresponding recess in the cover unit, a clipping arrangement, or a magnet for attracting and retaining a region of the cover unit. In other embodiments, the base connector is an adhesive, or a loop-hook connector such as a product sold under the trade mark Velcro® by Velcro Industries B.V. In this embodiment, base connector 120 can be either the loop component of the connector or the hook component.

[00131] Base unit 100 also comprises a base supply power input 130 for electrically connecting the base unit 100 to a supply or mains power supply (see Figure 1 A). In some countries, the mains, or supply power is provided as an alternating current (AC) electrical signal of about 240V (for example between about 220V and 260V) and about 50Hz frequency. In other countries, mains or supply power is provided as an AC signal of between about 100V and 130 V. Some systems use a frequency of about 50Hz while others use a frequency of about 60Hz. Some supply power systems are single phase and others may be three-phase. It will be understood that any electrical power that would be considered to be supply or mains power can be used.

[00132] In some embodiments, base unit 100 will also comprise a base unit power output 150 (see Figure 1 A) for providing output power to the cover unit 200 when cover unit 200 is connected to base unit 100.

[00133] Base unit power output 150 can be provided by any suitable means including a direct plug/socket arrangement with a recess provided in base unit 100 leading to conductive elements which make electrical connection with a corresponding electrically conductive element of a cover unit power input 210 (see below), or can be provided by a radiating element that transfers power from base unit 100 to cover unit 200 by induction or other means. An example of this embodiment is described in more detail below. Any other form of power transfer can also be used.

[00134] In some embodiments, base unit power output 150 and base connector 120 can be provided by the same element. In one such embodiment, the connection of cover unit power input to the base unit power output 150 will also provide sufficient support to retain cover unit 200 to base unit 100 without a further additional base connector 120 or other connection arrangement.

[00135] In some embodiments, base unit 100 will also comprise a power converter 140 which converts the supply input power received at the base supply power 130 input to the output power provided by the base unit power output 150 to provide useable power to the cover unit 200 when in use.

[00136] In some embodiments, the base unit power output will be shielded or otherwise protected so that no electrically-live element is easily accessible by a user when the base unit 100 is installed. In some embodiments, the default state of the base unit power output is to an OFF state and is electrically isolated from the mains or supply power, and/or from the output of the power converter 140. In such an embodiment, only when the cover unit 200 is in place will the base power outlet be electrically connected to the mains or supply power and/or the output of the power converter 140.

[00137] Any suitable power converter circuitry can be used as will be apparent to the person skilled in the art. One example of a suitable power converter 140 is shown in Figure 2. There shown is power converter 140 comprising input terminals for connection to mains or supply power, for example 240V AC, and providing an output of 5 to 12 V DC. This output is electrically isolated from the mains or supply power. This output can be provided directly for use by the cover unit 200 via base unit power output 150.

[00138] In another embodiment, base unit power output is provided by a Universal Serial Bus (USB) charger. Any suitable form of USB charger can be used, such as one described in PCT Application No. PCT/AU2011/001532 published as WO2012/068635 entitled “USB Outlet Charger”, previously incorporated by reference.

[00139] As described above, in some embodiments, base unit power output 150 is provided by an inductive power transfer system.

[00140] Figure 3A shows a side view of a base unit 100 for mounting to a surface, and for connection to a source of power, such as mains or supply power. In this aspect, the base unit 100 comprises base supply power input 130 provided by an input terminal block for receiving mains or supply power 50, a first side 410 of an induction power transfer system 400 connected to the base supply power input 130 for receiving power from the supply power 50 and for radiating energy from a coil of the first side. In this arrangement, first side 410 also acts as power converter 140 in that it receives mains or supply power at its input and outputs power in a different form as will be described in more detail below.

[00141] In this embodiment, base unit power output 150 is provided by a coil 414 disposed, in one embodiment, around the periphery of base unit 100 as shown in Figure 3B, which shows a perspective front view of the base unit 100. In other embodiments, coil 414 is provided in a smaller region as shown in Figure 3C. In one embodiment, coil 414 is provided as a printed coil on a Printed Circuit Board (PCB). This implementation ensures high reproducibility and reduces costs. In other embodiments, coil 414 is provided by physical windings of wire around a ferrite core.

[00142] Figure 4 shows a system block diagram of one embodiment of first side 410. In this embodiment, first side 410 comprises a power input 411 for receiving power (e.g. from a mains or supply source via input terminal block or other source). In one embodiment, power input 411 is a 5W isolated AC/DC flyback converter. Input 411 is connected to a rectifier 412, in one embodiment a half bridge rectifier, and in a more specific embodiment, a half bridge rectifier constructed of Metal Oxide Semiconductor Field Effect Transistors (MOSFETs).

[00143] Rectifier 412 is connected to a resonant network 413. The output of resonant network 413 is connected to transmitting coil 414 for radiating the energy as output power.

[00144] In one embodiment, there is also provided a magnetic flux concentrator 415 such as a ferrite core.

[00145] The input power to the AC/DC flyback stage can be between about 110V to about 240V AC, and about 50Hz to 60Hz. The output of this stage is about 12V DC between about 6W and about 10W. The other role of this power stage is to provide electrical isolation between the mains or supply power network input to the power stage and the data input stage (see Figure 5 and related description below).

[00146] Figure 5 shows another embodiment of first side 410, which provides data communication capabilities. In this embodiment, a data input 416 (for example a digital data input) for receiving data from an external source such as another device communicating with input 416 wirelessly by any suitable protocol such as Bluetooth®, BLE® or ZigBee®, or for receiving data directly from the mains power source 50 using modulation of the current carried by the mains power conductors.

[00147] The output of data modulator 416 is applied to the input of controller 417 which generates modulating signals to modulate the output of transmitter coil 414 in accordance with the data, as will be described in more detail below. This allows data to be transmitted by modulating the energy radiated by transmitting coil 414. All other elements in Figure 5 are as previously described in Figure 4.

[00148] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 6, base unit 100 comprises a base supply power output 190 for providing supply power directly to an electrical device such as a heater, fan, radio, television. In this embodiment, base 100 may have two power outputs, being base unit power output 150 for providing output power to the cover unit 200 and base supply power output 190 for providing supply power to an external device other than the cover unit 200. In this embodiment, base supply power output 190 is connected directly to base supply power input 130 to provide mains or supply power to the user. In one embodiment, base supply power output 190 is a socket for receiving a plug of an electrical device such as a vacuum cleaner. In some embodiments, cover unit 200 will have an aperture to allow direct access to base supply power output 190, or may have its own input for receiving a plug from an external device, such as a series of one, two or three or more apertures which receive a respective plug and which align with sockets of base supply power output 190.

[00149] In another aspect, there is provided a cover unit 200 as shown in Figure 7. In a broad embodiment, cover unit 200 comprises a cover connector 220 for connecting the cover unit 200 to the base unit 100. In some embodiments, cover connector 220 engages with base connector 120 to connect cover unit 200 to base unit 100.

[00150] The cover connector 220 is shown generically in Figure 7 but can take on any form that allows connection of the cover unit 200 to the base unit 100. Such forms include a recess for receiving a protrusion from the base unit 100, a protrusion for being received in a corresponding recess in the base unit 100, a clipping arrangement, or a magnet for attracting and retaining a region of the base unit 100. In other embodiments, the cover connector is an adhesive, or a loop-hook connector such as a product sold under the trade mark Velcro® by Velcro Industries B.V. In this embodiment, cover connector 220 can be either the loop component of the connector or the hook component.

[00151] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 further comprises a cover unit power input 210 for receiving power output from base unit 100. Cover unit 200 can also comprise functional circuitry 280 which can receive power from cover unit power input 210.

[00152] According to another aspect described herein, cover unit power input 210 is a second side 420 of the inductive power transfer system 400. Figure 8A shows cover unit 200 with cover unit power input 210 provided by a receiving coil 424 of second side 420. Functional circuitry 280 is connected to second side 420 to receive power to power any components of the functional circuitry.

[00153] Figure 8B shows another embodiment in which receiving coil 424 is provided in a more compact area.

[00154] It will be appreciated that functional circuitry 280 can be any of one or more electrical components which react to receiving power from cover unit power input 210. In one simple embodiment, functional circuitry 280 is a light or a light such as an incandescent light, fluorescent light, or light emitting diode (LED), which lights up upon receiving power from cover unit power input 210. These devices may also have supporting circuitry. In other embodiments, functional circuitry 280 comprises many components and may include integrated circuits, microcontrollers, memory devices and analog and digital circuitry, display units or screens, and electro-mechanical devices such as speakers or actuators, to perform any desired functions.

[00155] Figure 9 shows an embodiment of second side 420 of inductive power transfer system 400. In this embodiment, second side 420 comprises receiving coil 424 for receiving energy radiated by transmitting coil 414 of first side 410. The received energy is provided to the input of rectifier and filter block 422, which rectifies and filters the received signal and provides the rectified and filtered signal to the input of voltage regulator 421 to provide a regulated voltage as an output of second side 420. This output can then be connected to functional circuitry 280 to provide power to functional circuitry 280 to allow it to operate. In one embodiment, this output is 5 V DC with 500mA current, providing 2.5W of power.

[00156] In another embodiment, second side 240 comprises communications functionality as shown in Figure 10. In this embodiment, which cooperates with the embodiment of the first side 410 as shown in Figure 6, receiving coil 424 receives the radiated energy ifom transmitting coil 414 of first side 410, upon which is modulated a data signal as previously described. The received signal at receiving coil 424 is applied to the input of rectifier and filter 422 to provide power processing as previously described, but is also provided at the input of signal demodulator 425 to extract the data signal from the received signal. The demodulated signal is provided at the output of signal demodulator 425 to be applied to functional circuitry 280. In this way, the operation of functional circuitry 280 can be controlled by data sent from base unit 100.

[00157] In one embodiment, the method of transmitting data from the primary side (i.e. base unit 100 to the secondary side (i.e. cover unit 200) is by way of modulation of the excitation frequency of the primary coil in accordance with the input data. This modulation may be done using analogue techniques in one embodiment, but may also be done via a microcontroller in other embodiments.

[00158] In some embodiments, the data transferred between the cover unit 200 and the base unit 100 is encrypted. This can increase the likelihood that only authentic cover units 200 can operate with an installed base unit. A further authentication protocol may also be carried out in some embodiments, to further ensure that only authorised cover units 200 can be used with installed base units 100.

[00159] In one embodiment, the method of transmitting data from the secondary side (i.e., the cover unit 200) to the primary side (i.e. base unit 100) is by way of amplitude modulation by applying modulation signals on the LC resonant circuit in accordance with the data input to the cover unit 200. Such data may be input by any suitable means, including by the user actuating one or more user inputs such as a button on the cover unit, or by remote means which transmit data wirelessly to cover unit 200.

[00160] Figure 11 shows cover unit 200 connected to base unit 100 via base connector 120 and cover unit connector 220, to provide system 300. In this view, base unit 100 is mounted to surface 40, in this embodiment, a wall. In this arrangement, receiving coil 424 of second side associated with cover unit 200 is placed sufficiently close to the transmitting coil 414 of the first side 410 to provide the inductive power transfer system 400 as shown in Figure 12.

[00161] The distance between the receiving coil 424 and the transmitting coil 414 can range from substantially 0mm up to about 10mm or more, including 1mm, 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 6mm, 7mm, 8mm and 9mm and intervals therebetween. The operation of the inductive transfer system will vary depending upon the distance between the transmitting coil 414 and the receiving coil 424.

[00162] Further technical details are described in Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2015275226 entitled “Inductive Power Transfer In An Electrical Outlet”, previously incorporated by reference.

[00163] In other embodiments, base unit 100 also comprises a base switch interface 160 for interfacing with a switch element of the cover unit 200, to allow actuation of a switch on the cover unit 200 to be effected on the base unit 100. Figure 13 shows a base unit 100 with base switch interface 160. In some embodiments, base switch interface 160 is an electrical interface such as a radio frequency (RF) receiver for receiving RF signals from a switch on the cover unit 200 when actuated. In some embodiments, base switch interface 160 is an infrared (1R) receiver for receiving 1R signals from a switch of cover unit 200. In other embodiments, base switch interface 160 is a component of a touch switch which actuates upon a user touching or near-touching a corresponding switch element on the cover unit 200. An example of such a touch switch arrangement is described in PCT patent application no. PCT/AU12011/001675 (published as WO 12012/083380) entitled “Touch Switch” previously incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[00164] In other embodiments, base switch interface 160 is a mechanical interface for engaging with a switch element or a cover switch interface of cover unit 200 as will now be described in more detail below.

[00165] Figures 14A and 14B show a general representation of the components of an embodiment of a switch assembly 500 according to one aspect. Broadly, in this aspect, switch assembly 500 comprises two sub-assemblies, being base unit switch part 510 and operational part 1200. As shown in Figure 14A, base unit switch part 510 comprises a functional part 1000 and a base switch interface 160.Operational part 1200 is for actuation by a user and for controlling the functional part 1000, via the base switch interface 160, for interfacing the functional part 1000 and the operational part 1200.

[00166] It will be noted that the operational part 1200 is not fixed to the base switch interface 160 or the functional part 1000 and is able to move freely with respect thereto, for reasons as will be described further below.

[00167] Figure 14B shows a further exploded general view of an embodiment of the switch assembly 500 of Figure 14A, in which it can be seen that in this embodiment, operational part 1200 itself comprises two parts, namely user interface 1201 and carrier 1202. In some embodiments, the user interface 1201 and the carrier 1202 are fixed together and in other embodiments, the user interface 1201 and the carrier 1202 are separable as will be described in more detail below.

[00168] Figure 15A is an exploded perspective front view of a system 300, comprising a base unit 100 and a cover unit or switch plate 200. The switch assembly 500 (push-button switch assembly in this embodiment) is shown distributed between the base unit 100 and cover unit or switch plate 200, with the base unit switch part 510 being provided in the base unit 100 and the operational part 1200 (of which only the user interface 1201 is visible in this view) being provided in the cover unit or switch plate 200.Figure 15B is an exploded perspective rear view of the system 300. As shown in Figure 15A, the switch assembly 500 includes the functional part 1000, which in an embodiment is a switch mechanism, the operational part 1200 which in this embodiment is a push button, and the base switch interface 160.

[00169] As can be seen in Figures 15A and 15B, the operational part 1200 can be freely removed from the base unit switch part (specifically the base switch interface 160) and/or the functional part 1000 as there is no connection between the operational part 1200 and the base switch interface 160/functional part 1000.

[00170] In this embodiment, the operational part 1200 comprises a user interface 1201 (in this embodiment, a push-button 1201A) and a carrier 1202, as shown in Figures 15A and 15B. The operational part 1200 is engaged in the plate 200 through the carrier 1202 which can be fitted into the plate 200, as shown in Figure 15B. The push-button 1201A is operated by a user to effect a switch on/off operation. Figure 15B shows one embodiment of the engagement of the carrier 1202 to the plate 200. However, a person skilled in the art will understand that the engagement of the operational part 1200 and the plate 200 can be provided in any way which can connect the operational part 1200 and the plate 200 together. The details of the connection between the plate 200 and the operational part 1200 will be described in more detail later with reference to Figures 27A and 27B and Figures 28A and 28B.

[00171] When the cover unit or plate 200 is connected to the base unit 100, the functional part 1000 and base switch interface 160 are located behind the operational part 1200 when viewed from the side of the cover unit 200. The functional part 1000 is controlled by the actuation of the operational part 1200 to implement switch on/off operation through the base switch interface 160. The functional part 1000 is connected to the base unit 100. This connection is by any suitable means including bonding, clipping, friction fit, gluing or by a means employing a sliding connector as described in Australian Patent Application No. 2015275232 entitled “Connection System and Method for Electrical Outlets” previously incorporated by reference.

[00172] The base switch interface 160 is disposed between the operational part 1200 and the functional part 1000, and is connected with the functional part 1000 as described further below. Base switch interface 160 is for interfacing the functional part 1000 and the operational part 1200 so as to transfer the user’s actuation operation (such as pushing the button or actuating the dolly) on the operational part 1200 to the functional part 1000. An enlarged view of the interface 160 is shown in Figure 17.

[00173] In a conventional switch assembly, the operational part 1200, especially, the push button 1201 is fixed to the functional part 1000 and cannot be removed or detached from the functional part 1000.

[00174] However, according to an aspect described herein, as shown in Figures 15A and 15B, the operational part 1200 is not fixed or connected to the base switch interface 160 or to the functional part 1000, but can be removed from the functional part 1000 or the base switch interface 160. For example, the operational part 1200 can be caused to contact or engage with the functional part 1000 or the base switch interface 160 by only connecting the plate 200 to the base unit 100. Similarly, the operational part 1200 can be removed or disengaged from the functional part 1000 or the base switch interface 160 by simply separating the plate 200 from the base unit 100. The details of the relationship of the three parts and principles of how the switch assembly 500 works will be explained later with reference to Figures 18, 20, 24 and 26.

[00175] Figures 16A and 16B illustrate another embodiment of the system 300 with switch assembly 500, with the operational part 1200 being provided by a rocker switch or dolly 1201B. Figure 16A is an exploded perspective front view of this embodiment of the system 300 with switch assembly (rocker switch assembly). Figure 16B is an exploded perspective rear view of the system 300 with switch assembly 500 according to this embodiment.

[00176] The switch assembly 500 in Figures 16A and 16B includes the functional part 1000, the operational part 1200, and the base switch interface 160. The difference between the rocker switch assembly in Figure 16 and the push-button switch assembly in Figure 15 lies only in the operational part 1200 in this embodiment.

[00177] In this embodiment, the operational part 1200 includes a dolly 120IB and a carrier 1202, as shown in Figures 16A and 16B. The operational part 1200 is engaged in the cover unit or switch plate 200 through the carrier 1202 which can be fitted into the plate 200, as shown in Figure 16B. The dolly 1201B is operated by a user to effect switch on/off operation. Figure 16B shows the engagement implemented by the carrier 1202. However, it will be appreciated by the person skilled in the art that the engagement of the operational part 1200 and the plate 200 can be in any way which can connect the operational part 1200 and the plate 200 together, including the direct connection of the operational part to the plate without an intervening carrier.

[00178] As with the embodiment shown in Figures 14A and 15B, the operational part 1200 is not fixed to the base unit switch part 510 and in particular, to base switch interface 160 or to the functional part 1000, but can be removed or separated from the base unit switch part 510 being the functional part 1000 or the base switch interface 160. For example, the operational part 1200 can be engaged with the functional part 1000 through the base switch interface 160 by only connecting the plate 200 on the base 100. Similarly, the operational part 1200 can be disengaged or removed from the functional part 1000 or the base switch interface 160 by simply separating the plate 200 from the base 100. The details of the relationship of the three parts and principles of how the switch assembly works in this embodiment will be explained later with reference to Figure 20.

[00179] Since the functional part 1000 in Figure 15 is the same as that in Figure 16 and the operational part 1200 can be removed from the same functional part 1000, the push-button switch assembly as shown in Figure 15 can be converted to the rocker switch assembly as shown in Figure 16 simply by replacing the functional part 1200 with push-button switch 1201A with the functional part with the rocker switch 120IB. Such replacement can be done by a user himself/herself without assistance of a professional or qualified tradesperson.

[00180] The details of the interface and how the switch assembly according to the first embodiment works will now be described in detail with reference to Figures 17 to 19.

[00181] Figure 17 is a perspective top view of an embodiment of base switch interface 160 included in the switch assembly 500 according to the first embodiment described previously.

[00182] As shown in Figure 17, the base switch interface 160 comprises first protrusion 1601A and second protrusion 1601B, first surface 1602A, second surface 1602B, and first top surface 1603A and second top surface 1603B. The protrusions 1601A and 1601B are located at each side of a centre 1606 of the base switch interface 160, respectively. In this embodiment, base switch interface 160 also comprises first surface 1602A and second surface 1602B. In this embodiment, first surface 1602A is outside the first protrusion 1601A with respect to the centre 1606 and second surface 1602B is outside the second protrusion 160IB with respect to the centre 1606. First top surface 1603A is disposed at the top of the first protrusion 1601A. Second top surface 1603B is at the top of the second protrusion 160 IB. As can be seen, the first surface 1602A and second surface 1602B are planar surfaces each disposed a first distance from the centre 1606 of the base switch interface 160 and the first top surface 1603A and second top surface 1603B are disposed above the first surface 1602A and the second surface 1602B, each at a second distance from the centre 1606 of the interface. In one embodiment, the first distance is greater than the second distance. In another embodiment, (not shown), the first distance is less than the second distance.

[00183] Figure 18 shows how a push-button switch assembly of the first embodiment works. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view, along line A-A’ in Figure 15A, of the switch assembly 500, being a combination of the functional part 1000, the base switch interface 160 and the operational part 1200.

[00184] As shown in Figure 18, the push button 1201A included in the operational part 1200 is above the base switch interface 160. In one embodiment, the base switch interface 160 is connected to an actuating member 1605. In some other embodiments, actuating member 1605 is a part of, or integrated with, base switch interface 160. The switching element 1102 within the functional part 1000 is under the actuating member 1605 and is for making and breaking contact between terminals 1103, 1104 and 1105 which in use, are connected to respective electrical conductors (not shown) carrying electrical current such as mains or supply current or current from another source. The effect of switching element 1102 being rocked from one side to another is to create an electrical path between terminals 1103 and 1104 and breaking the electrical path between terminals 1104 and 1105, thereby effecting an on/off switching function under actuation of the actuating member 1605 as will be understood by the person skilled in the art.

[00185] In the view of Figure 18, at the initial state, the push button 1201A contacts with the first top surface 1603A located at the top of the first protrusion 1601 A. When the user pushes the push button 1201A downwards, the first protrusion 1601A of the base switch interface 160 is pressed down, causing the actuating member 1605 to swing towards the right side, since base switch interface 160 is connected to functional part 1000 via a pivot point 1607 at centre 1606. The switching element 1102 is actuated correspondingly to change switching on/off status of the switch assembly 500 as previously described. At the same time, the second protrusion 160IB moves up so that the second top surface 1603B makes contact with the push button 1201A. When the push button 1201A is pressed again in the position of contact with the second top surface 1603B of second protrusion 160IB, the second protrusion 160IB is pressed down, causing the actuating member 1605 to swing toward the left side. The switching element 1102 is actuated correspondingly to change the switching on/off status of the switch assembly 500. At the same time, the first protrusion 1601A moves up so that the first top surface 1603A makes contact with the push button 1201 A. The same process is repeated when the user presses the push button 1201A again.

[00186] As can be seen from Figure 18, the push button 1201A moves linearly in an up and down motion, while through the transfer of the base switch interface 160, the switching element 1102 makes a rocker motion. That is, the base switch interface 160 is configured to, in use, convert linear motion from the first operational part 1200 into rocking motion to the functional part 1000 when the operational part 1200 is or includes a push button 1201 A.

[00187] Figure 19 shows the cross-sectional view of system 300 along the line A-A’ of Figure 15 A, including the base unit 100 and the cover unit or plate 200. It can be seen in this view how operational part 1200 is brought into non-fixed but touching engagement with base unit switch part 510 (and in particular in this embodiment, base switch interface 160), when cover unit or plate 200 is connected to base unit 100. The operational part 1200 and the base unit switch part 510 are separated (and in particular separated from base switch interface 160 in this embodiment) simply by removing cover unit or plate 200 from base unit 100.

[00188] Figure 20A shows how a switch assembly 500 of the second embodiment of Figure 16 functions. Figure 20A is a cross-sectional view, along line B-B’ in Figure 16A, of a combination of the functional part 1000, the base switch interface 160 and the operational part 1200, with the perspective top view of the base switch interface 160 repeated in Figure 20B for ease of reference.

[00189] As shown in Figure 20A, the dolly 1201 included in the operational part 1200 is above the base switch interface 160. As in the arrangement shown in Figure 20A, in one embodiment, the base switch interface 160 is connected to an actuating member 1605. In some other embodiments, actuating member 1605 is a part of, or integrated with, base switch interface 160. The switching element 1102 within the functional part 1000 is under the actuating member 1605 and is for making and breaking contact between terminals 1103, 1104 and 1105 which in use, are connected to respective electrical conductors carrying electrical current such as mains or supply current or current from another source. The effect of switching element 1102 being rocked from one side to another is to create an electrical path between terminals 1103 and 1104 and breaking the electrical path between terminals 1104 and 1105, thereby effecting an on/off switching function under actuation of the actuating member 1605 as will be understood by the person skilled in the art.

[00190] In the view of Figure 20A, at the initial state, the dolly 120 IB makes contact with the first surface 1602A and the second surface 1602B, via legs 1201B-1 and 1201B-2 associated with dolly 120IB. In this embodiment the first surface 1602A and the second surface 1602B are located farther from the centre 1606 as compared with the first top surface 1603A and second top surface 1603B. When a user actuates the dolly 1201B, the dolly 1201B causes the first surface 1602A of the base switch interface 160 to be pressed down, which makes the actuating member 1605 swing toward right side in the view shown. The switching element 1102 is actuated to change switching on/off status of the switch assembly. At the same time, the second surface 1602B moves up. When the dolly 120 IB is actuated again, the dolly 120 IB causes the second surface 1602B of the base switch interface 160 to be pressed down, which makes the actuating member 1605 swing toward the left side in this view. The switching element 1102 is actuated to change the switching on/off status of the switch assembly. At the same time, the first surface 1602A moves up. The same process is repeated when the user actuates the dolly 120IB again.

[00191] In the above embodiment, the dolly 120IB makes contact with the first surface 1602A and the second surface 1602B of the base switch interface 160 which are planar. In another embodiment, the rocker or dolly switch 120IB may make contact with the first slanted surface 1604A and second slanted surface 1604B of the protrusions 1601A and 160 IB. In other embodiments, the first surface 1602A, the second surface 1602B, the first slanted surface 1604A and/or the second slanted surface 1604B can be curved or non-planar.

[00192] As can be seen from Figure 20A, the base switch interface 160 transfers rocking motion from the operational part 1200 to the functional part 1000, when the operational part 1200 is a dolly 1201B.

[00193] Although in the above embodiment, two protrusions 1601A and 1601B are shown as an example, a person skilled in the art will appreciate that three or more protrusions can be applied to enforce switching effect. Furthermore, any other surface configurations can be used to effect the same translational functions as the exemplary embodiments described above.

[00194] From Figure 18 and Figure 20A, it will be appreciated that the push-button switch assembly 500 can be converted to a rocker switch assembly simply by replacing the operational part 1200 being a push button 1201 A, with an operational part 1200 being a dolly 1201B.

[00195] Such replacement can be done by a user himself/herself without assistance of a professional or qualified tradesperson. Therefore, costs to an end-user are reduced. Furthermore, production costs of the switch assembly 500 are reduced because when a part of the switch assembly is updated or modified, only that part is needed to be produced, without affecting other parts.

[00196] Figure 21 shows the switch assembly of Figure 20A with operational part 1200 in cover unit or switch plate 200, connected to base unit 100, to form system 300.

[00197] A third embodiment, in which a rotary switch assembly is implemented, is now described with reference to Figures 22A and 22B.

[00198] Figure 22A is a perspective top view of a combination of a functional part 1000, an base switch interface 160 and an operational part 1200 included in a switch assembly (a rotary switch assembly) according to a third embodiment. Figure 22B is a side view of the arrangement of Figure 22A. Figures 22A and 22B show the operational part 1200 comprising a rotary switch 1201, and a base switch interface 160. The rotary switch 1201 comprises a knob 1201C as the user interface 1201 and a first rod 1201C-1 under the knob 1201C. The knob 1201C can rotate. When the knob 1201C is rotated, the first rod 1201C-1 swings accordingly. On the surface of the operational part 1200, there are two indicators, first indicator 1203 and second indicator 1204. When the knob 1201C aligns with the first indicator 1203, it indicates that the switch is in an off state. When the knob 1201C aligns with the second indicator 1204, it indicates that the switch is in an on state. Of course, the indications of such states can be exchanged. For example, the first indicator 1203 indicates switch on state, and the second indicator 1204 indicates switch off state. Any other means of indicating the state of the switch can also be used, including the use of a light indicator that emits light when the switch is on and emits no light when the switch is off.

[00199] In this embodiment of base switch interface 160 as shown in Figure 22B for ease of reference, a fork 1608 with prongs 1608A and 1608B is added between the protrusions 1601A and 160IB, and is configured to accommodate the first rod 1201C-1 in the gap between prongs 1608A and 1608B of fork 1608.

[00200] At the initial state, the knob 1201C aligns with the first indicator 1203 on the surface of the rotary switch. When a user rotates the knob 1201C to align with the second indicator 1204, the first rod 1201C-1 correspondingly moves from left side to the right side as seen in this view. This movement causes first rod 1201C-1 to contact and/or act on the right prong 1608B of fork 1608.

Since base switch interface 160 is pivotally connected to functional part 1000 as previously described, the left prong 1608A of the fork 1608 is forced to move up, and the right protrusion 1608B of the fork 1608 is forced to move down. Thus, such movement is transferred to the switching element 1102) to implement switching on/off. Then, when the knob 1201C is rotated from aligning with the second indicator 1204 to aligning with the first indicator 1203, the first rod 1201C-1 correspondingly moves from the right side to the left side. The left protrusion 1608A of the fork 1608 is forced to move down, and the right protrusion 1608B of the fork 1608 is forced to move up. Thus, such movement is transferred to the switching element 1102 to implement switching on/off.

[00201] Figure 23 shows the operational part 1200 as a rotary switch 1201C within a cover unit or switch plate 200. As previously described, cover unit or switch plate 200 can be connected to a base unit 100 (not shown) to form a system 300 (not shown). In this embodiment, the connection of the cover unit or switch plate 200 to the base unit 100 will cause the operational part 1200, being in this embodiment, a rotary switch 1201C to come into functional engagement with base switch interface 160 of the base unit switch part 510 (comprising base switch interface 160 and functional part 1000) in the base unit 100.

[00202] Figure 24 shows this switch assembly 500 formed by the action of connecting the cover unit or switch plate 200 to base unit 100. In this view, cover unit or switch plate 200 and base unit 100 are not shown for clarity. This view shows operational part 1200 including rotary switch 210C and carrier 1202, base switch interface 160 and operational part 1000.

[00203] As can be seen from Figure 22 to Figure 24, the knob 1201C is rotated. Such rotation motion is converted to rocker motion by the rod 1201C-1 and fork 1608. By adding the fork 1608 to the base switch interface 160, the base switch interface 160 is able to convert rotational motion from the operational part 1200 into rocking motion to the functional part 1000 when the operational part 1200 is a rotary switch.

[00204] As can be seen from Figures 14 to 24, the type of the switch assembly can be converted between a push-button switch, a rocker switch, and a rotary switch.

[00205] It will be appreciated that by use of the base switch interface 160, comprising various features appropriate for the desired functions, the switch assembly 500 can be converted to any other type, as a further example, a toggle switch assembly.

[00206] Figure 25 shows a further embodiment in which the operational part 1200 comprises a toggle switch 1201D. Figure 25A is a front perspective view of an assembled system 300 with cover unit or switch plate 200 connected to base unit 100. Operational part 1200 is provided in this embodiment by a toggle switch 120 ID. Figure 25B shows a rear view of the arrangement of Figure 25A, showing operational part 1000 behind the base unit 100.

[00207] Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view of the switch assembly 500, of Figure 25A along the line C-C’. As shown in Figure 26, the base switch interface 160 is the same as that in the first embodiment. The difference again lies only in the operational part 1200. The operational part 1200 in this embodiment comprises a toggle 120ID. When a user actuates the toggle 120ID, the lower part of the operational part 1200 makes the same movement as the movement of rocker switch.

[00208] It can be seen from Figure 26 and the above description, that the switch assembly 500 can thus also be converted to a toggle switch assembly type.

[00209] On the basis of the above description, a person skilled in the art will understand that a switch assembly can be easily changed to any type by only changing the operational part 1200 which is not fixed to the base switch interface 160 or to the functional part 1000.

[00210] In the above various embodiments, the base switch interface 160 can comprises various features as required for the specific function. In one embodiment, base switch interface 160 comprises protrusions. In another embodiment, the base switch interface 160 comprises a planar surface. Correspondingly, the operational part 1200 including a push-button switch might be modified by including two protrusions to contact with the planar interface.

[00211] The various embodiments and principles described above provide a method and system for conveniently changing a switch assembly type. In another aspect, the switch assembly can be varied to change the appearance.

[00212] Figure 27A shows how a switch of one type (for example a round rocker switch assembly with a round-cornered plate) is changed into a switch of another type (for example square rocker switch assembly with a square-cornered plate) by only recombining an operational part with a dolly of one type (for example square dolly 1201B’ - see Figure 29) and a corresponding plate of another type (for example square-cornered plate - see Figure 29).

[00213] The following describes how to fit or connect the operational part 1200 and the cover unit or switch plate 200.

[00214] Conventionally, an operational part 1200 with a specific shape and type can only be connected to a plate 200 with a corresponding specific shape and type. Consequently, when the operational part 1200 is to be changed in type or shape, the plate 200 has to be changed correspondingly.

[00215] According to another aspect, the operational part 1200 and the plate 200 can be separated and connected through a standard interface. Thus, different operational parts and different plates can be combined through the standard interface in any way to form different types and different outlooks. The standard interface can be provided by any suitable form including clips, friction fit, magnets, hook and loop arrangements and/or reusable adhesives.

[00216] In one aspect then, the base unit 100 can be provided with a base switch interface 160 (and associated functional parts) such as the base switch interface 160 and functional part 1000 described herein which can interface with the cover switch interface (such as user interface 1201 (and associated operational part 1200) of different designs described herein. Thus, this aspect provides the advantage that only one base switch design need be provided in a base unit but which can interface with a plurality of operational parts. This reduces or eliminates the need to manufacture, store and install base units 100 of different designs while still allowing the ability to provide different operational parts 1200 for the cover unit 200.

[00217] Figure 27A is an exploded perspective front view of a system 300 (with a push-button switch assembly 500 in this embodiment) according to another aspect described herein. Figure 27B is an exploded perspective rear view of the system 300 according to this aspect.

[00218] In this aspect, as shown in Figure 27B, a retaining portion 1203 is provided to retain the carrier 1202 to the cover unit 200. In the embodiment shown in Figure 27B, the retaining portion 1203 is a clip structure 1203A.

[00219] In this embodiment, the plate or cover unit 200 in Figures 27A and 27B includes a square clip 1203A around the aperture 201 for receiving the, or part of the, operational part 1200.

The size of the clip 1203A can be made to match the size of the carrier 1202 to retain the carrier 1202 in a friction fit or other clipping means to that shown in Figure 27B. The operational part 1200 can be removed from plate or cover unit 200 by pressing the clip 1203 so as to release or otherwise disengage from, the carrier 1202.

[00220] Figure 28A is an exploded perspective front view of a system 300 with an operational part 1200 being provided by a rocker or dolly 120IB as the user interface 1201 according to another embodiment. Figure 28B is an exploded perspective back view of the switch system according to this embodiment.

[00221] In this embodiment, operational part 1200 in Figures 28A, 28B includes a dolly, instead of the push-button in Figures 27A, 27B. Although the dolly replaces the push button, the clip structure 1203A can be the same.

[00222] Thus, it can be seen that in this aspect, the operational part 1200 of a push button 1201A can be replaced with an operational part 1200 being a rocker or dolly 1201B, so as to convert the push-button switch assembly to the rocker switch assembly without changing the plate or cover unit 200.

[00223] Therefore, when a user desires to change the operational part 1200, he does not need to change the plate or cover unit 200. This provides even greater flexibility for the user and even greater efficiencies in manufacture, storage and installation in that the user is able to simply change the specific parts required while maintaining the majority of the system 300.

[00224] Although in Figures 27A, 27B and 28A, 28B, the shape of the clip 1203A and the carrier 1202 are square shaped, it will be appreciated that the clip 1203A and the carrier 1202 can be different shapes, such as round, rectangular, hexagonal etc.

[00225] Furthermore, it will be appreciated that the retaining portion 1203 can be of any suitable form including, but not limited to, a screw structure, a tight fitting or friction fit structure or a magnet.

[00226] Although Figures 27A, 27B show an embodiment of this aspect as a button switch assembly, and Figures 28A, 28B show an embodiment as rocker switch assembly, it will be appreciated that other forms of operational part 1200 such as the rotary switch assembly in Figure 24, and toggle switch assembly in Figure 26 can be used, as can other switch types not explicitly described herein.

[00227] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 27A, 27B and 28A, 28B, the plate or cover unit 200 can be of any desired shape or appearance.

[00228] It will be understood that there can be any combination of different operational parts 1200 and plates or cover units 200. For example, a switch assembly 500 with a small dolly 1201B might be converted to a switch assembly with a big dolly 120IB by replacing the operational part 1200 with a small dolly as described above. In another example, a switch assembly with a round push-button switch might be converted to a switch assembly with a square push-button/rocker switch by changing the operational part and the plate. In another combination, as shown in Figure 29, the appearance of system 300 may be changed completely by changing the existing plate or cover unit 200 with a plate or cover unit 200’ of a different type. In one embodiment, the user interface 1201 can be used, or a different user interface 1201 can be used. In the example of Figure 29, the switch interface 1201 is changed from a round dolly 120IB to a square dolly 120IB’.

[00229] In other embodiments, as shown in Figure 30, base until 100 also comprises a base data input 170 for receiving data. In one embodiment, the base data input 170 receives, in use, data from the cover unit 200. In other embodiments, base data input 170 receives in use, data from another external source such as a user-controlled remote device or from another transmitting device such as those described in PCT/AU12014/000545 entitled “Electrical Connector, System and Method” and PCT/AU12014/000544 entitled “Batten Holder, Connector, System and Method”, previously incorporated by reference.

[00230] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 31, base unit 100 comprises a base data output 180 for outputting data to the cover unit 200 or an external device. In some embodiments, base unit 100 comprises base data output 180 and based data input 170. In some embodiments, base data input 170 and base data output 180 are provided by the same element, such as a transceiver. In some embodiments, base data output 180, base data input 170 and base unit power output 150 are all provided by the same element.

[00231] In some embodiments, base data input 170 and/or base data output 180 and or base unit power output 150 are provided by a mechanical data port in accordance with any suitable data transfer protocol. Such examples include RJ-45 type connectors, RJ11, RJ14, RJ25, RJ48, RJ61, XLR connectors, XLD connectors, DIN connectors, BNC connectors and USB ports.

[00232] In some embodiments, base data output 180, base data input 170, base unit power output 150 and base connector 120 are all provided by the same element.

[00233] In some embodiments, base data input 170 and base data output are provided by the communications functionality of the inductive power transfer system 400 previously described.

[00234] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 32, base unit 100 comprises a base supply power output 190 for providing supply power directly to an electrical device such as a heater, fan, radio, television. In this embodiment, base 100 may have two power outputs, being base unit power output 150 for providing output power to the cover unit 200 and base supply power output 190 for providing supply power to an external device other than the cover unit 200. In other embodiments, base unit 100 has only base supply power output 190 and no base unit power output 180. In these embodiments, cover unit 200 does not receive power from base unit 100 but may have its own onboard power source such as a battery, or may only have mechanical or passive components and may not require any power to perform its function.

[00235] In another aspect, there is provided a cover unit 200 as shown in Figure 33. In a broad embodiment, cover unit 200 comprises a cover connector 220 for connecting the cover unit 200 to the base unit 100. In some embodiments, cover connector 220 engages with base connector 120 to connect cover unit 200 to base unit 100.

[00236] The cover connector 220 is shown generically in Figure 33 but can take on any form that allows connection of the cover unit 200 to the base unit 100. Such forms include a recess for receiving a protrusion from the base unit 100, a protrusion for being received in a corresponding recess in the base unit 100, a clipping arrangement, or a magnet for attracting and retaining a region of the base unit 100, and/or a friction fit between the cover unit 200 and the base unit 100. In other embodiments, the cover connector is an adhesive, or a loop-hook connector such as a product sold under the trade mark Velcro® by Velcro Industries B.V. In this embodiment, cover connector 120 can be either the loop component of the connector or the hook component.

[00237] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 comprises a cover unit power input 210 for receiving power output from base unit 100 as shown in Figure 34.

[00238] Cover unit power input 210 can be provided by any suitable means including a direct plug/socket arrangement with a recess provided in cover unit 200 leading to conductive elements which make electrical connection with a corresponding electrically conductive element of a base unit power output 150, or can be provided by a receiving element that receives power from base unit 100 by induction or other means. Any other form of power transfer can also be used.

[00239] In some embodiments, cover unit power input 210 and cover connector 220 can be provided by the same element. In one such embodiment, the connection of cover unit power input 210 to the base unit power output 150 will also provide sufficient support to retain cover unit 200 to base unit 100 without a further additional cover connector 220 or other connection arrangement.

[00240] In some embodiments, cover unit power input 210 is provided by the secondary side of the inductive power transfer system previously described.

[00241] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 35, cover unit 200 comprises a user interface 230 to allow a user to control one or more functional aspects of the cover unit 200 as will be described in more detail below. User interface 230 can take on any suitable form including mechanical switches, touch switches, motion detectors, audio detectors or motion capture devices. In some embodiments, user interface 230 is provided by the user interface 1201 described above with reference to the switch assembly.

[00242] In other embodiments, as shown in Figure 36, cover unit 200 also comprises a cover unit data input 240 for receiving data. In one embodiment, the cover unit data input 240 receives, in use, data from the base unit 100. In other embodiments, cover unit data input 240 receives in use, data from another external source such as a user-controlled remote device or from another transmitting device such as those described in PCT/AU12014/000545 entitled “Electrical Connector, System and Method” and PCT/AU12014/000544 entitled “Batten Holder, Connector, System and Method”, previously incorporated by reference. In this arrangement, cover unit data input 240 can also act as a user interface 230. In another embodiment, the data is received by a remote device as described in PCT/AU2013/001274 entitled “General Power Outlet and Remote Switch Module”, previously incorporated by reference. In this embodiment, cover unit 200 can comprise elements of the power outlet described therein.

[00243] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 37, cover unit 200 comprises a cover data output 250 for outputting data to the base unit 100 or an external device. In some embodiments, cover unit data input 240 and cover data output 250 are provided by the same element, such as a transceiver.

[00244] In some embodiments, cover unit data input 240 and/or cover data output 250 are provided by a mechanical data port in accordance with any suitable data transfer protocol. Such examples include RJ-45 type connectors, RJ11, RJ14, RJ25, RJ48, RJ61, XLR connectors, XLD connectors, DIN connectors, BNC connectors and USB ports.

[00245] In some embodiments, cover data output 250 is provided by the secondary side of the inductive power transfer system previously described.

[00246] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 comprises a cover switch interface 260 as shown in Figure 38, for engaging with a corresponding base switch interface. In some embodiments, cover switch interface is provided by the user interface 1201 described above with reference to the switch assembly.

[00247] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 comprises functional circuitry 280 which is powered in some embodiments, by power received by cover unit power input 210. In other embodiments, functional circuitry 280 is powered by a cover power supply 290 in cover unit 200 such as a battery.

[00248] In some embodiments, functional circuitry 280 is controlled by user interface 230.

[00249] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 comprises a memory 270 for storing data.

[00250] In another aspect, there is provided a system 300 comprising the base unit 100 and the cover unit 200 as shown in Figure 39. In this embodiment, base unit 100 is mounted to surface 40 (for example a wall) via mounting region 110 and electrically connected to supply power 50 via base supply power input 130. Cover unit 200 is connected to base unit 100 via base connector 120 and cover connector 220.

[00251] In another embodiment of system 300, shown in Figure 40, cover unit 200 also receives power from base unit 100 via base unit power output 150 and cover unit power input 210 to power any functional circuitry that may be contained in cover unit 200.

[00252] It will be appreciated that the system 300 comprising base unit 100 and cover unit 200 allows easy connection of a cover unit 200 to base unit 100 by simply engaging the base connector 120 and cover connector 220. In this way, cover unit 200 can be easily installed, removed and replaced by any user without any need for electrical knowledge or certification.

[00253] Furthermore, the system 300 allows a plurality of different cover units 200 to be connected to base unit 100. This allows the user to replace the cover unit 200 with a cover unit 200 of a different functionality to thereby provide great flexibility to the user as the user’s needs change over time.

[00254] For example, in one embodiment, cover unit 200 is a power socket and switch arrangement to allow system 300 to act as a conventional power socket for allowing the user to power devices such as vacuum cleaners, televisions etc. If the user then enters a stage in life where the user has a baby, the user may easily remove cover unit 200 by simply disengaging the base connector and the cover connector, and can then replace this cover unit 200 with a different cover unit 200 that provides a different functionality such as a baby monitor or a night light.

[00255] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 is connected, in use, to base unit 100 and the may have additional elements connected to cover unit 200 to enhance various features such as functionality and appearance. In some embodiments, cover unit 200 is connected to base unit 100 as previously described, to provide one or more desired functionalities, and then a further piece (such as a face plate) can be connected to cover unit 200 to completely encase the cover unit 200 and the base unit 100. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, cover unit 200 does not completely cover all parts of the base unit 100. In other embodiments, cover unit completely covers and extend beyond base unit 100. In some embodiments, cover unit 200 serves as the face plate to cover base unit 100, which serves in some embodiments, as a grid plate. In some embodiments then, the cover unit when provided as a face plate 200 provides the final surface of the system comprising base unit or grid plate 100 with full functionality and appearance integrated therein. Of course in such embodiments, further attachments may be connected over face plate 200 such as plug adapters or peripheral electronic devices.

[00256] The following describes various embodiments of an aspect in which cover unit 200 comprises a cover unit power input 210 as previously described.

[00257] Figure 41 shows a general embodiment of cover unit 200 in which cover unit power input 210 is provided integral with the cover unit 200. In a broad sense then, there is provided a cover unit for connection to a base unit comprising a base supply power input and a base unit power output for receiving power from the base supply power input, the cover unit comprising a cover unit power input for receiving power from the base unit power output.

[00258] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 is a face plate 200 for connection to a base unit which is provided as a grid plate 100. Figure 42A shows a rear view of an embodiment of face plate 200 with cover unit power input 210 provided by two pins 21 la, 21 lb of a plug for use in a plug/socket arrangement.

[00259] Figure 42B shows a front view of the face plate 200 shown in Figure 42A. Shown in this view is a casing 281 integral with the surface of the face plate 200 which contains functional circuitry 280 which, as previously described, can take on any form to provide any desired functionality. An embodiment of this aspect will be described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the functional circuitry is powered by power received via the cover input power 210.

[00260] It will be appreciated that the embodiment shown in Figures 42A and 42B is an example only of a general arrangement and may take on any suitable and required form. In some embodiments, there is no discernible casing 281, and any functional circuitry is contained within the thickness of face plate 200.

[00261] Figure 43 shows an example of base unit 100 provided as a grid plate. In this embodiment, base unit power output 150a is provided as a socket of a plug/socket arrangement, to receive pins 21 la, 21 lb of the face plate 200 shown in Figure 42A. In this embodiment, grid plate 100 has two base unit power outputs, with socket 150b also provided to provide an additional power source.

[00262] In this embodiment, there is also shown base switch interfaces 160a and 160b as previously described, and whose interaction with face plate 200 will be described further below.

[00263] It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, there is only one base unit power output 150 provided, and in other embodiments, there are three, four, five, six, or more. Furthermore, in some embodiments, there are no base switch interfaces 160 provided, and in other embodiments, there are one, three, four, five, six or more.

[00264] In another embodiment of the face plate 200 as shown in Figure 44, there is provided a protrusion 261. In this embodiment, when face plate 200 is placed over grid plate 100 and pins 21 la, 21 lb are inserted into corresponding sockets 151a and 151b fully, such that face plate 200 is connected to grid plate 100, protrusion 261 engages with and actuates base switch interface 160a to turn the switch on to provide electrical power to base power output 150a and consequently to cover unit power input 210 to provide power to functional circuitry 280.

[00265] In another embodiment as shown in Figures 45A and 45B (with Figure 45A showing a rear view of face plate 200 of this embodiment and Figure 45B showing a front view of the face plate of Figure 45A), face plate 200 has one or more power connector receivers 215 for receiving a power connector such as a plug, from an external device such as a television, vacuum cleaner or tablet. The power connector receiver 215 can take on any suitable form depending upon the intended purpose to allow an external device to receive power, in some embodiments, independently from the face plate 200 and directly from the base unit power output 150 (or in some embodiments, base supply power output 190). In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 45A and 45B, the power connector receiver 215 comprises a plurality of receiver pin apertures 216a, 216b, 216c to receive respective pins from a plug of a device such as a television or vacuum cleaner (not shown). This receiver pin apertures align with corresponding socket apertures in base unit power output 150b (and in particular in this embodiment where the base output is supply or mains power, base supply power output 190) to provide supply or mains power to the external device. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, there may be only one or two pin apertures (or 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more) depending upon the power system being used and the country in which the system is being used. For example, in some countries, there is no third earth pin and so only 2 apertures may be required.

[00266] Also shown in the embodiment of Figure 45A is aperture 201 which accommodates a user interface 1201 (for example in some embodiments, a square rocker 120IB) as shown in Figure 46A. In use, user interface 120IB will engage with and actuate a switch interface (for example 160b as shown in Figure 43) and as described in detail previously with reference to the switch system when face plate 200 is connected to grid plate 100.

[00267] Figure 46B shows a front view of cover unit/face plate 200 of the embodiment described with reference to Figure 46A.

[00268] In other embodiments, power connector receiver 215 is an aperture to receive a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector. Figure 47 shows a front view of a face plate 200 of an embodiment of this aspect. In these embodiments, base unit power output 150 comprises a USB port for receiving the USB connector. The USB port is connected to a USB power circuit, which can be used to power and/or charge a USB-enabled device such as a smart phone or a tablet. An example of a suitable device for this feature is described in Australian Patent No 2011334615 entitled “USB Outlet Charger”, previously incorporated by reference.

[00269] In other embodiments, cover unit power input 210 is provided by a different connector type. In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 48, cover unit power input is provided by a USB connector. Figure 49 shows an embodiment of the arrangement for Figure 48 with an embodiment of power connector receiver 215, as well as an embodiment of user switch interface 1201B (in this example, a square dolly rocker).

[00270] In other embodiments, cover unit power input 210 is provided by an RJ-45 connector as shown in Figure 50.

[00271] In other embodiments, cover unit power input 210 is provided by a coaxial television connector as shown in Figure 51.

[00272] In other embodiments, cover unit power input 210 is provided by an audio jack connector as shown in Figure 52.

[00273] In other embodiments, cover unit power input 210 is provided by an HDM1 connector as shown in Figure 53.

[00274] In some of these embodiments, it will be appreciated that the cover unit power input also acts as a cover unit data input as previously described.

[00275] Accordingly then, in another aspect, there is provided a face plate for connection to a grid plate comprising a base unit power output and/or a base data output, the face plate comprising a cover unit power input and/or a cover unit data input for receiving power from the base unit power output and/or the base data output respectively.

[00276] It will also be appreciated that cover unit/faceplate 200 in these aspects can take on any configuration as required to match different configurations of base units/grid plates 100. Examples of different configurations of base units/ grid plates 100 are shown in Figures 54 and 55.

In these embodiments shown, there is only one base unit power output 150 for receiving a cover unit power input 210, and one switch interface 160 for engaging with a user interface (e.g. 120IB).

[00277] Figure 56 shows an embodiment of a system 300 comprising the base unit / grid plate 100 having connected thereto cover unit/ face plate 200. In this embodiment, face plate 200 has casing 281 containing functional circuitry, which in some embodiments, obtains power from cover unit power input 210 via base unit power output 150, which in turn, obtains power from supply 50 via base power input 130.

[00278] In another aspect, as illustrated in Figure 57, there is provided a method of installing a face plate as previously described to a grid plate comprising at least one base unit power output. In some embodiments, the method comprises, in step 701, aligning the cover unit power input of the face plate with the at least one base unit power output of the grid plate; and then, in step 702, connecting the face plate to the grid plate.

[00279] The step of connecting the face plate to the grid plate can be done by any suitable means, including simply pushing the face plate over the grid plate to allow connection via friction fit, or using dedicated connectors as previously described.

[00280] According to another aspect, there is provided a face plate 200 for connection to a grid plate 100 comprising at least one switch interface 160 of a switch for connecting a power outlet of the grid plate to a power source, the face plate comprising at least one protrusion 261 for engaging with and actuating the at least one switch interface 160 on the grid plate 100 upon connection of the face plate 200 to the grid plate 100.

[00281] Figure 58 shows a general embodiment of this aspect, indicating cover unit or face plate 200 with a protrusion 261. Protrusion 261 can take on any form or shape and may be integral with the surface of the face plate 200 or added separately such as glued, bonded, friction fit or any other suitable attachment means.

[00282] Protrusion 261 is located on the face plate 200 such that when face plate 200 is connected to grid plate 100, protrusion 261 engages with and actuates switch interface 160 to actuate a switch associated with switch interface 160 and grid plate 100.

[00283] In some embodiments, at least a portion of protrusion 261 is located between 20mm and 50mm from a side edge 203 of the face plate and between 10mm and 30mm from a top edge 204 of face plate 200.

[00284] It will be appreciated that the location of the protrusion 261 will vary between different embodiments to match the location of the corresponding grid plate 100 with which a selected face plate 200 is to be used.

[00285] Figure 59 shows an embodiment of a face plate 200 with protrusion 261.

[00286] Figure 60 shows another embodiment of face plate 200 with protrusion 261. In this embodiment, face plate 200 also has two pins 21 la, 21 lb providing cover unit power input 210. As previously described, as face plate 200 is connected to a grid plate 100, for example as described previously with reference to Figure 43, pins 211 a, 21 lb are received within sockets 151a, 15 lb of base unit power output 150. As face plate 200 is pushed in further to connect to grid plate 100, protrusion 261 engages and pushes on switch interface 160 to actuate the switch connected to switch interface 160 as described in more detail below.

[00287] Power received via cover unit power input 210 is used by, in some embodiments as shown in Figure 60, the functional circuitry 280 within casing 281.

[00288] In other embodiments, face plate 200 with protrusion 261 is provided with power connector receiver 215 and in some embodiments, also with user interface (e.g. rocker dolly 120IB as shown in the example in Figure 61).

[00289] In other embodiments still, the cover unit power input 210 is provided by a second side 424 of an inductive power transfer system as previously described and as shown in Figure 62. In some embodiments, power will be transferred inductively from the first side to the second side merely upon placing face plate 200 in proximity to grid plate 100, but in other embodiments, a switch will be actuated to cause power to be transmitted by the first side. In such embodiments, protrusion 261 can be used to actuate that switch.

[00290] Figure 63 shows another embodiment of the aspect illustrated in Figure 62 in which the face plate 200 is also provided with power connector receiver 215 and in some embodiments, also with user interface (e.g. rocker dolly 1201B as shown in the example in Figure 31).

[00291] Turning now to the interaction of protrusion 261 with switch interface 160, as previously described, protrusion 261 engages with switch interface 160 in grid plate 100 (see Figure 43 for example) to actuate a switch associated with grid plate 100 and switch interface 160, an example of which is described previously with reference to Figure 17 for example.

[00292] Figure 64A illustrates an embodiment in which face plate 200 is being brought into contact with grid plate 100.As can be seen in this view, protrusion 261 makes contact with a portion of switch interface 160, which is in a first position, with switch 500 in a first state, such as OFF.

[00293] As face plate 200 is pushed further towards grid plate 100 to connect the two together, protrusion 261 applies a force to switch interface 160 to cause it to actuate to a second position as previously described and to actuate switch 500 to a second state, such as ON. This second state is shown in Figure 64B. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the action of connecting the face plate 200 to the grid plate 100 actuates the switch 500.

[00294] In some embodiments, switch 500 is biased in the first state (e.g. OFF) (for example by a spring), such that upon removal of face plate 200 from grid plate 100 and consequently upon removal of the force of protrusion 261 on switch interface 160, the switch 500 will again automatically assume an OFF state, until switch interface 160 is again actuated.

[00295] Examples of some embodiments of cover unit 200 provided as a face plate 200 are now described.

[00296] In one aspect, there is provided a cover unit 200, which in some embodiments, functions as a light source. In some embodiments, the cover unit 200 is provided as a face plate which is attached to base unit 100, in some embodiments, being a grid plate.

[00297] Figure 65 shows a general view of an embodiment of cover unit 200, acting as a light source. In this embodiment, cover unit 200 has light source 208. Light source 208 can be any suitable source of light, including incandescent lamp, light emitting diode (LED), organic light emitting diode (OLED), a screen comprising multiple elements such as pixels which emit light upon application of electrical current.

[00298] Electrical power to cause the light source 208 to illuminate can be derived, in some embodiments, by cover unit power input 210, and/or by an on-board battery supply within cover unit 200.

[00299] In other embodiments, cover unit 200 is provided with a presence detector 202 to detect and indicate the presence of a person or other entity of interest. Figure 66 shows a general arrangement for this aspect of cover unit 200. In some embodiments, presence detector 202 is a movement detector. In some embodiments, presence detector 202 is an infrared detector. In other embodiments, presence detector 202 is an audio detector. In some embodiments, presence detector 202 detects vibrations. Any other type of detector to suit the requirements of the detector can be used as will be understood by the person skilled in the art.

[00300] Upon detection of the presence of an entity, presence detector 202 will indicate this detection. This indication can be by any suitable means including triggering an alarm, sending an electronic alert to a remote station such as a mobile phone, and/or causing an associated light source to illuminate.

[00301] In some embodiments then, there is provided a cover unit 200 for connection to a base unit 100, the cover unit 200 comprising a light source 208 and a presence detector 202. Figure 67 shows a general arrangement of cover unit 200 comprising presence detector 202 and light source 208. Functional circuitry 280 may be provided within cover unit 200 to control the action of light source 208 in accordance with signals from presence detector 202. In some embodiments, functional circuitry 280 and/or light source 208 and/or presence detector 202 derive power from cover unit power input 210. In some embodiments, functional circuitry 280 and/or light source 208 and/or presence detector 202 derive power from an internal cover power supply 290 such as a battery. In other embodiments, functional circuitry 280 and/or light source 208 and/or presence detector 202 derive power from both cover input power 210 and internal cover power supply 290.

[00302] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 also has cover connector 220 for connecting cover unit 200 to base unit 100 as previously described.

[00303] It will be understood that in these aspects and embodiments, cover unit 200 can take on any suitable form and shape and in some embodiments, are smaller than base unit 100 and in either embodiments, are larger than, and extend beyond the dimensions of base unit 100. In some embodiments, cover unit 200 is provided as a face plate for connection to base unit 100, which in some embodiments is provided as a grid plate.

[00304] Figures 68A and 68B show an example of cover unit 200 provided as a face plate. Figure 68A shows a front view of an embodiment of face plate 200, comprising light source 208. In this embodiment, light source 208 is part of a casing 281 which integrally-molded with the surface of the rest of face plate 200. Casing 281 also contains functional circuitry 280 , which controls the operation of light source 208 and provides power to light source 208 from cover unit power input 210 (see Figure 68B).

[00305] Figure 68B shows the rear of the face plate of Figure 68A, showing cover unit power input 210, which in this embodiment comprises a plug arrangement with pins 21 la, 21 lb. As previously described, cover unit power input can be provided by any suitable means to provide the required power, including alternating current (AC) power or direct current (DC) power (for example through a USB power arrangement).

[00306] Figure 69 shows an alternative embodiment of that of Figure 68B, with cover unit power input 210 provided by a receiving coil 424 of a second side of an inductive power transfer system such as one described in Australian Provisional Patent Application No 2014905212 entitled “Inductive Power Transfer In an Electrical Outlet” previously incorporated by reference.

[00307] As previously described, face plate 200 can be connected to base unit 100, in some embodiments provided as a grid plate, such as the one described previously with reference to Figure 43. As will be appreciated, the provision of these features as an integrated face plate 200 allows a user to easily install a light source in their home or building by simply inserting the cover unit power input 210 into the base supply output 150a of pre-installed and wired base unit/grid plate 100. Furthermore, the fact that the functional elements of the device are integrated with the face plate, provides a much cleaner and pleasing aesthetic, rather than having a plug-in adapter or separate device. Furthermore, if the user later wishes to change or upgrade the functionality of the system, the user simply obtains an upgraded cover unit/face plate 200, removes the first face plate and replaces it with the new one.

[00308] An example of an upgraded device is the light source 208 combined with a presence detector 202 such as shown in Figure 70. Again, all of these functional features are integrated into face plate 200 to allow easy installation by the user. In the embodiment shown in Figure 70, casing 281 contains functional circuitry 280 within, and supports presence detector 202 and light source 208.

[00309] Figure 71A shows another embodiment of the device of Figure 70. In this embodiment, face plate 200 also has a user switch interface 120IB (for example), and a power connector receiver 215 for receiving a power connector from an external device to supply power as previously described.

[00310] Figure 7 IB shows a rear view of the arrangement of Figure 71 A. Visible in this view are cover unit power input 210, in this embodiment being provided by pins 21 la, 21 lb and power connector receiver 215 and the rear of user switch interface 120 IB. Also provided in this embodiment is protrusion 261 for engaging with and actuation switch interface 160 upon connection of face plate 200 to grid plate 100 as previously described. This will provide a power source for use by functional circuitry 280, light source 208 and presence detector 202. As previously described, in other embodiments, power for one or more of these elements can be provided by an internal power source such as a battery.

[00311] Also shown in Figure 7IB, is a mode selector switch 205, which enables the user to select between a plurality of modes of operation. In some embodiments, this plurality of modes includes a night light plus movement detection function and a movement detection function only.

[00312] Also shown in Figure 7IB is a light level adjustor 206 for allowing the sensitivity of the device to be adjusted to allow operation in both well-lit areas and darker areas.

[00313] In the specific face plate 200 shown in Figure 71B, cover connectors 220 are also provided as previously described. In other embodiments, cover connectors 220 can take on any other suitable form to allow connection of face plate 200 to grid plate 100. In other embodiments still, cover unit power input 210 acts as the cover connector 220 to retain face plate 200 to grid plate 100 when the pins 21 la, 21 lb are inserted into base unit power output 150a (see for example Figure 43).

[00314] Figure 72 shows an embodiment of face plate 200 in which the presence detector 202 can be adjusted to provide a “blind” zone which will ignore any presence within a certain zone. In some embodiments, this is achieved by use of a shield 202c placed in front of a sensor 202b of presence detector 202. These elements, in this example are covered by detector cover 202a.

[00315] Shield 202c is of any suitable form and material which will act to obscure signals to sensor 202b, including plastic, metal or wood.

[00316] In some embodiments, shield 202c is moveable over sensor 202b such to allow for a user-adjustable “blind” zone to accommodate the particular location or intended use of the face plate 200 by sliding or otherwise placing shield 202c over varying amounts of sensor 202b. In some embodiments, differently-sized shields can be obtained and replaced to provide for variable blocking over sensor 202b.

[00317] As illustrated in Figure 73, placement of shield 202c over sensor 202b allows a lower portion below the sensor 202b to be obscured such as to avoid triggering of the detector 202 simply by presence of animals such as dogs or cats. In the example shown in Figure 73, placement of a shield 202c over sensor 202b, that is located 0.3m above ground level to obscure a lower 20 degree area, will create a “blind” area ranging up to 0.8m at 1.5m away from sensor detector 202, thus allowing animals within the vicinity to move about without triggering the detector.

[00318] Figure 74 is a system block diagram of an arrangement according to some embodiments. Shown are mode selector 205, light level adjuster 206 comprising in this embodiment, light level adjuster set point (enabled in some embodiments by a potentiometer for example) 206a and light level sensor 206b, presence detector 202 (for example, a P1R), the light source 208 and a processor 207 for controlling the signals and actions between the various inputs and outputs. In one aspect, the processor 207 and connecting wires between the inputs and outputs comprises the functional circuitry 280.

[00319] An example of a suitable processor 207 is HT46R065B, an A/D Type 8-bit OTP MCU provided by Holtek Semiconductor Inc in Taiwan. An example of the PIR used is the LHi878 pyroelectric dual element detector provided by Exelitas Technologies Corp in Massachusetts, USA. Of course any other suitable device can be used as will be understood by the person skilled in the art.

[00320] Figure 75 shows an example flowchart of operations carried out by processor 207 in some embodiments.

[00321] Figure 76 shows a circuit diagram of an embodiment of the arrangement of Figure 74. Its operation will be understood by the person skilled in the art and need not be more specifically described.

[00322] Throughout the specification and the claims that follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the words “comprise” and “include” and variations such as “comprising” and “including” will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers, but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

[00323] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement of any form of suggestion that such prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

[00324] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention is not restricted in its use to the particular application described. Neither is the present invention restricted in its any described embodiments with regard to the particular elements and/or features described or depicted herein and is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing from the scope as set forth and defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A face plate for connection to a grid plate, the face plate comprising a light source.

2. A face plate as claimed in claim 1 further comprising a presence detector for controlling the light source in response to detecting a presence.

3. A face plate as claimed in claim 2 wherein the presence detector is a movement detector.

4. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 1 or 2 further comprising a mode selector switch for selecting between a plurality of modes of operation.

5. A face plate as claimed in claim 4 wherein the plurality of modes comprises a night light and movement detection mode, and a movement detection only mode.

6. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 3 to 5 further comprising a light level adjuster for selecting a light level at which the movement detector operates.

7. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 2 to 6 further comprising a shield to obscure at least a portion of a sensor of the presence detector.

8. A face plate as claimed in claim 7 wherein the amount of the presence detector that is obscured by the shield is variable.

9. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8 further comprising a cover unit power input for receiving power from a base unit power output of the grid plate.

10. A face plate as claimed in claim 9 wherein the cover unit power input comprises an electrical plug for insertion into the base unit power output being an electric socket.

11. A face plate as claimed in claim 9 wherein the cover unit power input is a second side of an inductive power transfer system for receiving power from the base unit power output being a first side of the inductive power transfer system.

12. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8 further comprising an internal power supply.

13. A face plate as claimed in claim 12 wherein the internal power supply is one or more batteries.

14. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 11 further comprising a protrusion for engaging with and actuating a switch interface on the grid plate upon connection of the face plate to the grid plate, for providing power the cover unit power input from the base unit power output.

15. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 11 and 14 further comprising functional circuitry powered by power received by the cover unit power input.

16. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 11 and 14 further comprising functional circuitry powered by power received from the internal power supply.

17. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 16 further comprising a power connector receiver for aligning with a further base unit power output and for receiving a power connector from an external device.

18. A face plate as claimed in claim 17 further comprising a user switch interface for engaging with and actuating a second switch interface of the grid plate associated with a second switch for controlling power to the further base unit power output.

19. A light source integrated into a face plate for connection to a grid plate.

20. A light source integrated into a face plate as claimed in claim 1 further comprising a presence detector for controlling the light source.

21. A system comprising: a grid plate; and a face plate as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18.

22. A method of connecting a light source to a grid plate comprising at least one base unit power output, the method comprising: aligning a cover unit power input of a face plate comprising the light source with the at least one base unit power output of the grid plate; and connecting the cover unit power input with the base unit power output.

23. A cover unit comprising: a cover connector for connecting the cover unit to a base unit, the base unit comprising a mounting region for mounting to a surface; a base supply power input for receiving supply power; a base power converter for converting the received supply power to an output power; and a base unit power output for outputting the output power to the cover unit; and a light source for emitting light

24. A face plate for connection to a grid plate comprising: at least one face plate connector for connecting the face plate to the grid plate; and a light source for emitting light.

25. A face plate as claimed in claim 24 further comprising a movement sensor for sensing movement in proximity to the face plate and for controlling the light source in accordance with an output of the movement sensor.

26. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 24 or 25 further comprising an electrical connector for engaging with a base unit power output of the grid plate.

27. A face plate as claimed in claim 26 wherein the electrical connector is a power connector.

28. A face plate as claimed in claim 26 wherein the electrical connector is a data connector.

29. A face plate as claimed in claim 26 wherein the electrical connector is both a power connector and a data connector.

30. A face plate as claimed in claim 27 wherein the power connector comprises at least two pins for inserting into corresponding receivers of the at least one electrical socket of the grid plate.

31. A face plate as claimed in claim 28 wherein the power connector comprises three pins for inserting into corresponding receivers of the at least one electrical socket of the grid plate.

32. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 29 wherein the face plate comprises at least one protrusion for engaging with and actuating a corresponding switch interface on the grid plate upon connection of the face plate to the grid plate.

33. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 30 further comprising at least two apertures for aligning with respective receivers of the electrical socket of the grid plate and for receiving corresponding pins of an external device.

34. A face plate as claimed in claim 31 comprising three apertures for aligning with respective receivers of the electrical socket of the grid plate.

35. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 31 or 32 further comprising a switch actuator for engaging with and actuating a second switch interface on the grid plate upon connection of the face plate to the grid plate.

36. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 33 wherein the electrical connector is a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector.

37. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 33 wherein the electrical connector is an RJ-45 connector.

38. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 33 wherein the electrical connector is a coaxial television connector.

39. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 33 wherein the electrical connector is an audio jack connector.

40. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 26 to 33 wherein the electrical connector is a High Definition Multiple Input (HDM1) connector.

41. A face plate as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 38 further comprising functional circuitry powered via the electrical connector.

42. A face plate as claimed in claim 39 wherein a power conversion circuit is provided between the electrical connector and the functional circuitry.

43. A system comprising: the grid plate comprising at least one electrical socket; and the face plate as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 42.

44. A system as claimed in claim 43 further comprising a plurality of face plates as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 42 that are interchangeable and wherein at least two of the plurality of face plates provide different functionality from each other.

45. A method of installing a face plate as claimed in any one of claims 24 to 42 to a grid plate comprising at least one electrical socket, the method comprising: aligning the electrical connector of the face plate with the at least one electrical socket of the grid plate; and connecting the face plate to the grid plate.