AU2023251433A1

AU2023251433A1 - Connectors for electrical system

Info

Publication number: AU2023251433A1
Application number: AU2023251433A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Xavier Lifran
Original assignee: Schneider Electric Australia Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Schneider Electric Australia Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2015-11-19
Filing date: 2023-10-17
Publication date: 2023-11-09
Also published as: AU2021107590A4; AU2016102482A4; AU2021107590C4; AU2021221546A1; AU2021100471A4; AU2021107590B4; AU2021100471B4; AU2016235020A1

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. The base comprises a base connector for connecting to a cover unit and in some embodiments, provides power to the cover unit. 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. Also disclosed are various other switch interfaces and connectors for use in the disclosed system.

Description

CONNECTORS FOR ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Australian Patent Application No. 2021221546 filed 24 August 2021, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0002] The following publications are referred to in the present application:

PCT/AU12014/000545 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 published as W02012/068635 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 entitled "Electrical Outlet Faceplate", filed on 30 September 2016; Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Electrical Outlet Faceplate and System" filed on 30 September 2016; and Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Electrical Attachment Accessory" filed on 30 September 2016; Australian Provisional Patent Application No 2016902592 entitled "Electrical Device With Light Emitting Diode" filed 1 July 2016;

Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2016902304 entitled "Connector Device" filed 14 June 2016; Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2016901883 entitled "Lockable Switch Interface" filed 19 May 2016; Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2016901602 entitled "Improvements In An Electrical Module Connector And System" filed 2 May 2016; and Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2015904769 entitled "Adapter For Electrical Device" filed 19 November 2016 All in the name of Schneider Electric (Australia) Pty Limited.

[0003] The entire content of each of these documents is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] The present application relates to electrical wall box arrangements, power outlets and faceplates.

BACKGROUND

[0005] 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.

[0006] As building automation becomes more prevalent, more control functionality becomes available.

[0007] 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

[0008] According to a first aspect, there is provided a base unit for mounting to a surface, the base unit comprising two long edges and two short edges; and at least one base connector along at least one of the two long edges.

[0009] According to a second aspect, there is provided a base unit comprising at least one base connector, the base connector comprising: a top edge indented from at least one edge of the base unit; a first face sloping between a face of the base unit and the top edge on one side; and a second face sloping away from the top edge on a second side.

[0010] According to a third aspect, there is provided a cover unit for connection to the base unit of any one of the first or second aspects, the cover unit comprising: two long edges and two short edges; and at least one cover connector along at least one of the two long edges for engaging with a corresponding one of the at least one base connector of the base unit.

[0011] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a cover unit for connection to the base unit of any of the first or second aspects, comprising a cover connector comprising at least one cover connector protrusion, the cover connector protrusion comprising at least one cover connector engaging region for engaging with the second face of the base connector when the cover unit is connected to the base unit, to thereby retain the cover unit to the base unit.

[0012] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided a system comprising: the base unit of any of the first or second aspects; and the cover unit of any of the third or fourth aspects, connected to the base unit.

[0013] According to a sixth aspect, there is provided a method of connecting the cover unit of any of the third and fourth aspects to the base unit of any of the first and second aspects, the method comprising: aligning the at least one cover connector with a corresponding one of the at least one base connector; and engaging the cover connector with the corresponding base connector to thereby retain the cover unit to the base unit.

[0014] According to a seventh aspect, there is provided a base unit for mounting to a surface, the base unit comprising: at least one base connector wherein the at least one base connector is a magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet.

[0015] According to an eighth aspect, there is provided a cover unit for connecting to the base unit of the seventh aspect, comprising at least one cover connector, wherein the cover connector is a magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet.

[0016] According to a ninth aspect, there is provided a system comprising: the base unit of the seventh aspect; and the cover unit of the eighth aspect, connected to the base unit.

[0017] According to a tenth aspect, there is provided a method of connecting a cover unit as claimed in the eighth aspect to a base unit as claimed in the seventh aspect, the method comprising: aligning the at least one cover connector with the at least one base connector; and placing the cover unit in sufficient proximity to the base unit such that the base connector and the cover connector are magnetically attracted to each other to thereby retain the cover unit to the base unit.

[0018] According to an eleventh aspect, there is provided a base unit for mounting to a surface, the base unit comprising a mounting surface at a rear of the base unit for mounting the base unit to the surface, and a front surface, the base unit comprising at least one base switch interface for engaging with a cover switch interface of a cover unit for connection to the base unit, wherein the front surface further comprises a base unit recess about the at least one base switch interface for accommodating the cover switch interface when the cover unit is connected to the base unit.

[0019] According to a twelfth aspect, there is provided a cover unit for connecting to the base unit of the eleventh aspect, comprising at least one cover unit support strut for being received in the recessed region of the base unit.

[0020] According to a thirteenth aspect, there is provided a system comprising: The base unit of the eleventh aspect; and The cover unit of the twelfth aspect, connected to the base unit.

[0021] According to a fourteenth aspect, there is provided a base unit for mounting to a surface, the base unit comprising; a base supply power input for receiving supply or mains power; a base supply power output for outputting the supply or mains power, the base supply power output comprising at least two socket elements for receiving corresponding pins of a plug connected to a load; wherein at least a portion of a region surrounding at least one of the at least two socket elements is raised above a socket surface in which the at least one of the at least two socket elements is disposed.

[0022] According to a fifteenth aspect, there is provided a cover unit for connecting to the base unit of the fourteenth aspect, the cover unit comprising at least two apertures for aligning with the at least two sockets of the base unit, wherein at least a portion of a region surrounding at least one of the at least two apertures is recessed so as to receive the raised portion of the base unit.

[0023] According to a sixteenth aspect, there is provided a system comprising: The base unit of the fourteenth aspect; and

The cover unit of the fifteenth aspect, connected to the base unit.

[0024] According to a seventeenth aspect, there is provided a cover unit of any preceding aspect, comprising a cover unit face and a cover unit side extending between the face and a periphery of the cover unit, wherein at least a portion of the cover unit side is translucent or transparent.

[0025] In some embodiments, the at least the portion of the side that is transparent or translucent, is angled with respect to a plane defined by the face at an angle greater than 90 degrees.

[0026] According to an eighteenth aspect, there is provided a user interface for connection to an operational part of a switch assembly, the user interface comprising at least a portion that is translucent or transparent.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0027] Embodiments of the various aspects described herein will be detailed with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0028] Figure 1A - shows a perspective front view of a generic embodiment of a base unit according to one aspect;

[0029] Figure 1B - shows a perspective rear view of the base unit of Figure 1A;

[0030] Figure 2 - shows an example of one type of power converter suitable for use with one embodiment of the base unit;

[0031] Figure 3A - shows a side view of the base unit with power input;

[0032] Figure 3B - shows a front perspective view of the base unit with an embodiment of a transmitter coil;

[0033] Figure 3C - shows a front perspective view of the base unit with another embodiment of the transmitter coil;

[0034] Figure 4 - shows a base unit according to another embodiment, including a base supply power output;

[0035] Figure 5 - shows a perspective rear view of a cover unit according to one embodiment;

[0036] Figure 6A - shows a perspective rear view of a cover unit according to another embodiment;

[0037] Figure 6B - shows a perspective rear view of a cover unit according to another embodiment;

[0038] Figure 7 - shows a side view of a cover unit connected to base unit to allow power and/or data to be transferred between the two units inductively;

[0039] Figure 8 - shows an embodiment of the base unit with a base switch interface;

[0040] Figure 9A - shows a generalised exploded view of the two sub-assembly of a switch assembly according to one aspect;

[0041] Figure 9B - shows a generalised exploded view of the main components of the two sub assemblies of the switch assembly of Figure 9A;

[0042] Figure 10A - is a perspective front view of one embodiment of a switch system with assembly (push-button switch assembly) according to a first aspect;

[0043] Figure 1OB - is a perspective rear view of the embodiment of Figure1OA;

[0044] Figure 11A - is a perspective front view of another embodiment of a switch system with switch assembly (rocker switch assembly) ;

[0045] Figure11B - is a perspective rear view of the embodiment of Figure 11A;

[0046] Figure 12 - is a perspective top view of an interface included in the switch assembly;

[0047] Figure 13 - is a cross-sectional view, along line A-A' in Figure 10A, of a combination of a functional part, the interface and an operational part within the embodiment of Figure1OA;

[0048] Figure 14 - is a cross sectional view of the switch system along the line A-A' of Figure 1OA including the base unit and cover unit;

[0049] Figure 15 - is a cross-sectional view, along line B-B' in Figure 11A, of a combination of a functional part, the interface and an operational part in the embodiment of Figure 11A with a perspective top view of the interface for reference;

[0050] Figure 16 - is a cross sectional view of the switch system along the line B-B' of Figure 11A including the base unit and cover unit;

[0051] Figure 17A - is an exploded perspective front view of a switch assembly (a push-button switch assembly) according to another aspect;

[0052] Figure 17B - is an exploded perspective rear view of the switch assembly according to the embodiment of Figure 17A;

[0053] Figure 18A - is an exploded perspective front view of a switch assembly (a rocker switch assembly) according to another aspect;

[0054] Figure 18B - is an exploded perspective rear view of the switch assembly according to the embodiment of Figure 18A;

[0055] Figure 19 - shows an example of a round rocker switch being converted to a square rocker switch;

[0056] Figure 20 - shows a front perspective view of a base unit with a data input;

[0057] Figure 21 - shows a front perspective view of a base unit with a base data output;

[0058] Figure 22 - shows a front perspective view of a base unit with a base supply power output;

[0059] Figure 23 - shows a cover unit with a cover connector;

[0060] Figure 24 - shows a cover unit with a cover power input;

[0061] Figure 25 - shows a cover unit with a user interface;

[0062] Figure 26 - shows a cover unit with a cover data input;

[0063] Figure 27- shows a cover unit with a cover data output;

[0064] Figure 28 - shows a cover unit with a cover switch interface;

[0065] Figure 29 - shows a system according to one embodiment;

[0066] Figure 30 - shows a system according to another embodiment;

[0067] Figure 31 - shows an embodiment of the base unit with a base connector;

[0068] Figure 32A - shows another embodiment of the base unit with a base connector;

[0069] Figure 32B - shows a detailed view of a base connector according to some embodiments;

[0070] Figure 32C - shows a side view of the base connector of Figure 32B according to some embodiments;

[0071] Figure 33 - shows a side view of a base connector according to other embodiments;

[0072] Figure 34 - shows an embodiment of a base unit with two base connectors;

[0073] Figure 35 - shows an embodiment of a base unit with four base connectors;

[0074] Figure 36 - shows an embodiment of a base unit with eight base connectors;

[0075] Figure 37A - shows an embodiment of a base unit with two base connectors disposed according to another aspect;

[0076] Figure 37B - shows another embodiment of a base unit with two base connectors disposed according to another aspect;

[0077] Figure 38 - shows another embodiment of a base unit with eight base connectors;

[0078] Figure 39A - shows a front perspective view of another embodiment of a base unit with a base switch interface;

[0079] Figure 39B - shows a rear perspective view of the base unit of Figure 39A;

[0080] Figure 40A - shows another embodiment of a base unit with a base switch interface;

[0081] Figure 40B - shows another embodiment of a base unit with two base switch interfaces and two base supply power outputs;

[0082] Figure 40C - shows another embodiment of a base unit with three base switch interfaces and two base supply power outputs;

[0083] Figure 40D - shows another embodiment of a base unit with four base switch interfaces and four base supply power outputs;

[0084] Figure 41A - shows a front perspective view of another embodiment of a base unit as a grid plate for a switch assembly with four base connectors;

[0085] Figure 41B - shows a rear perspective view of the base unit of Figure 41A;

[0086] Figure 42A - shows another embodiment of a base unit;

[0087] Figure 42B - shows another embodiment of a base unit;

[0088] Figure 42C - shows another embodiment of a base unit;

[0089] Figure 42D - shows another embodiment of a base unit;

[0090] Figure 42E - shows another embodiment of a base unit;

[0091] Figure 43A - shows a general embodiment of a cover unit for connection to a base unit, with at least one cover connector'

[0092] Figure 43B - shows another general embodiment of a cover unit with two cover connectors;

[0093] Figure 44 - shows a general embodiment of a cover unit with a cover connector provided as a protrusion;

[0094] Figure 45A - shows an embodiment of a first step of connecting a cover connector to a base connector;

[0095] Figure 45B - shows an embodiment of a second step of connecting the cover connector to the base connector of Figure 45A;

[0096] Figure 45C - shows an embodiment of a third step of connecting the cover connector to the base connector of Figure 45A;

[0097] Figure 46A - shows an embodiment of the engagement between a cover connector and a base connector;

[0098] Figure 46B - shows another embodiment of the engagement between a cover connector and a base connector;

[0099] Figure 46C - shows another embodiment of the engagement between a cover connector and a base connector;

[00100] Figure 47 - shows a general embodiment of a cover unit with four cover connectors;

[00101] Figure 48 - shows a general embodiment of a cover unit with eight cover connectors;

[00102] Figure 49A - shows a general embodiment of a cover unit with two cover connectors disposed according to another aspect;

[00103] Figure 49B - shows a general embodiment of a cover unit with a cover connector disposed according to another aspect;

[00104] Figure 49C - shows a general embodiment of a cover unit with two cover connectors disposed according to another aspect;

[00105] Figure 49D - shows a general embodiment of a cover unit with four cover connectors disposed according to another aspect;

[00106] Figure 49E - shows a general embodiment of a cover unit with two cover connectors disposed according to another aspect;

[00107] Figure 50A - shows a front perspective view of a cover unit provided as a face plate for a power outlet assembly;

[00108] Figure 50B - shows a rear perspective view of the face plate of Figure 50B;

[00109] Figure 51A - shows another embodiment of a cover unit;

[00110] Figure 51B - shows another embodiment of a cover unit;

[00111] Figure 51C - shows another embodiment of a cover unit;

[00112] Figure 51D - shows another embodiment of a cover unit;

[00113] Figure 52A - shows a front perspective view of a cover unit provided as a face plate for a switch plate assembly;

[00114] Figure 52B - shows a rear perspective view of the cover unit of Figure 52B;

[00115] Figure 53A - shows another embodiment of a cover unit;

[00116] Figure 53B - shows another embodiment of a cover unit;

[00117] Figure 53C - shows another embodiment of a cover unit;

[00118] Figure 53D - shows another embodiment of a cover unit;

[00119] Figure 53E - shows another embodiment of a cover unit;

[00120] Figure 54 - shows a side cross-sectional view of an embodiment of an assembly or system provided by connecting a cover unit to a base unit;

[00121] Figure 55A - shows a front perspective view of a base unit provided as a grid plate for an electrical outlet assembly or system according to another aspect using magnetic connectors;

[00122] Figure 55B - shows a rear perspective view of the base unit of Figure 55A;

[00123] Figure 56 - shows another embodiment of a base unit provided as a grid plate for a switch plate assembly using magnetic connectors;

[00124] Figure 57A - shows a front perspective view of another embodiment of a base unit provided as a grid plate for a switch plate assembly;

[00125] Figure 57B - shows a rear perspective view of the base unit of Figure 57A;

[00126] Figure 58A - shows an embodiment of a cover unit for use with magnetic connectors;

[00127] Figure 58B - shows another embodiment of a cover unit with magnetic connectors;

[00128] Figure 59 - shows a general embodiment of a cover unit and a base unit connected using magnetic connectors;

[00129] Figure 60A - shows an embodiment of a base unit according to another aspect;

[00130] Figure 60B - shows another embodiment of the base unit of Figure 60A;

[00131] Figure 61 - shows an embodiment of a cover unit connected to the base unit of Figure B providing a recess to accommodate the switch dolly of the cover unit;

[00132] Figure 62 - shows an embodiment of a cover unit according to another aspect, providing supporting struts;

[00133] Figure 63A-1 - shows a general embodiment of a base unit for use in an electric power outlet assembly or system;

[00134] Figure 63A-2 - shows a side view of the base unit of Figure 63A-1;

[00135] Figure 63B - shows another embodiment of the base unit of Figure 63A-1;

[00136] Figure 63C - shows a front view of the base unit of Figure 63B;

[00137] Figure 64A-1 - shows an embodiment of a cover unit for use with the base unit of Figure 63A-1;

[00138] Figure 63A-2 - shows a cross-sectional view along the lines A-A' of the cover unit of Figure 64A-1;

[00139] Figure 64B - shows another embodiment of a cover unit of Figure 64A-1;

[00140] Figure 64C - shows a rear view of the cover unit of Figure 64B;

[00141] Figure 65 - shows an embodiment of a cover unit connected to a base unit according to this aspect;

[00142] Figure 66A - shows an embodiment of a switch mechanism with switch interface;

[00143] Figure 66B - sows the switch interface of Figure 666A;

[00144] Figure 67 - shows another embodiment of a switch interface with offset keying recesses;

[00145] Figure 68A - shows an embodiment of a switch rocker according to another aspect;

[00146] Figure 68B - shows another embodiment of a switch interface for use with the rocker of Figure 68A;

[00147] Figure 69A - shows another embodiment of a switch rocker;

[00148] Figure 69B - shows another embodiment of a switch interface for use with the rocker of Figure 69A;

[00149] Figure 70A - shows another embodiment of a switch rocker;

[00150] Figure 70B - shows another embodiment of a switch interface for use with the rocker of Figure 70A;Figure 71C - shows a side view cross-section along the lines A-A' of Figure 71B showing the action of the base switch interface with the base supply power input;

[00151] Figure 71 - shows another embodiment of a base unit provided as a grid plate for an electrical power outlet assembly, with three base switch interfaces;

[00152] Figure 71B - shows an electrical power outlet assembly or system with a cover unit provided as a face plate connected to the base unit of Figure 71A;

[00153] Figure 72A - shows an embodiment of a cover unit according to another aspect in which a portion of the cover unit is translucent or transparent;

[00154] Figure 72B - shows a rear view of the cover unit of Figure 72A;

[00155] Figure 73 - shows a range of views of another embodiment of the cover unit of Figure 72A;

[00156] Figure 74 - shows a range of view of a switch user interface or rocker according to another aspect in which a portion of the rocker is translucent or transparent;

[00157] Figure 75 - shows a range of views of another embodiment of the rocker of Figure 74.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[00158] 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 1A and Figure lB 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 frame for supporting the base unit.

[00159] In some embodiments, the base unit 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 base unit mounting region 110 is a pin, tab or other connector.

[00160] 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.

[00161] 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 1A). 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 1OV and 130V. Some systems use a frequency of about Hz 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.

[00162] In some embodiments, base unit 100 will also comprise a base power output 150 (see Figure 1A) for providing output power to the cover unit 200 when cover unit 200 is connected to base unit 100.

[00163] Base 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.

[00164] In some embodiments, base power output 150 and base connector 120 can be provided by the same element. In one such embodiment, the connection of cover power input to the base 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.

[00165] 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 power output 150 to provide useable power to the cover unit 200 when in use.

[00166] In some embodiments, the base power output will be shielded, isolated, insulated, 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 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.

[00167] 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 power output 150.

[00168] In another embodiment, base 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 W02012/068635 entitled "USB Outlet Charger", previously incorporated by reference.

[00169] As described above, in some embodiments, base power output 150 is provided by an inductive power transfer system.

[00170] 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 (via, for example, Active, Neutral and earth wires), 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.

[00171] In this embodiment, base 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.

[00172] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 4, base unit 200 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 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 100 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.

[00173] In another aspect, there is provided a cover unit 200 as shown in Figure 5. 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.

[00174] The cover connector 220 is shown generically in Figure 5 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.

[00175] Cover unit 200 further comprises a cover 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 power input 210.

[00176] According to another aspect described herein, cover power input 210 is a second side 420 of the inductive power transfer system 400. Figure 6A shows cover unit 200 with cover 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.

[00177] Figure 6B shows another embodiment in which receiving coil 424 is provided in a more compact area.

[00178] It will be appreciated that functional circuitry 280 can be any of one or more electrical components which react to receiving power from cover power input 210, whether it be via direct connection or by inductive means or otherwise. 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 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.

[00179] In some embodiments, data is also transmitted between the base unit 100 and cover unit 200.

[00180] In some embodiment, 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.

[00181] 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 in the case of inductive power transfer. 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.

[00182] Figure 7 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 previously described.

[00183] 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.

[00184] Further technical details relating to the inductive power transfer are described in Australian Patent Application No 2015275226 entitled "Inductive Power Transfer In an Electrical Outlet"; previously incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[00185] In other embodiments, base unit 200 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 8 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 (IR) receiver for receiving IR 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.

[00186] 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.

[00187] Figures 9A and 9B 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 9A, 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.

[00188] 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.

[00189] Figure 9B shows a further exploded general view of an embodiment of the switch assembly 500 of Figure 9A, 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.

[00190] Figure 1OA 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 1OB is an exploded perspective rear view of the system 300. As shown in Figure 10A, 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.

[00191] As can be seen in Figures 1OA and 1OB, 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.

[00192] 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 1OA and 1OB. 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 1OB. The push-button 1201A is operated by a user to effect a switch on/off operation. Figure 1OB 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 17A and 17B and Figures 18A and 18B.

[00193] 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 co pending patent application entitled "Connection System and Method for Electrical Outlets" previously incorporated by reference.

[00194] 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 12.

[00195] 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.

[00196] However, according to an aspect described herein, as shown in Figures 1OA and 1OB, 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 13 and 15.

[00197] Figures 11A and 1lB 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 11A is an exploded perspective front view of this embodiment of the system 300 with switch assembly (rocker switch assembly). Figure 11B is an exploded perspective rear view of the system 300 with switch assembly 500 according to this embodiment.

[00198] The switch assembly 500 in Figures 11A and 11B includes the functional part 1000, the operational part 1200, and the base switch interface 160. The difference between the rocker switch assembly in Figure 11 and the push-button switch assembly in Figure 10 lies only in the operational part 1200 in this embodiment.

[00199] In this embodiment, the operational part 1200 includes a dolly 1201B and a carrier 1202, as shown in Figures 11A and 1lB. 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 1lB. The dolly 1201B is operated by a user to effect switch on/off operation. Figure 1lB 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.

[00200] As with the embodiment shown in Figures 9A to lOB, 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 15.

[00201] Since the functional part 1000 in Figure 10 is the same as that in Figure 11 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 11 simply by replacing the functional part 1200 with push-button switch 1201A with the functional part with the rocker switch 1201B. Such replacement can be done by a user himself/herself without assistance of a professional or qualified tradesperson.

[00202] 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 12 to 14.

[00203] Figure 12 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.

[00204] As shown in Figure 12, 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 1601B 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 1601B. 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.

[00205] Figure 13 shows how a push-button switch assembly of the first embodiment works. Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view, along line A-A' in Figure 11A, of the switch assembly 500, being 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 also shown for ease of reference.

[00206] As shown in Figure 13, 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.

[00207] In the view of Figure 13, at the initial state, the push button 1201A contacts with the first top surface 1603A located at the top of the first protrusion 1601A. 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 100 as previously described. At the same time, the second protrusion 1601B 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 1601B, the second protrusion 1601B 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 100. At the same time, the first protrusion 1601A moves up so that the first top surface 1603A makes contact with the push button 1201A. The same process is repeated when the user presses the push button 1201A again.

[00208] As can be seen from Figure 13, 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 1201A.

[00209] Figure 14 shows the cross-sectional view of system 300 along the line A-A' of Figure 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.

[00210] Figure 15 shows how a switch assembly 500 of the second embodiment of Figure 11 functions. Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view, along line B-B' in Figure 11A, 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 also shown for ease of reference.

[00211] As shown in Figure 15, the dolly 1201 included in the operational part 1200 is above the base switch interface 160. As in the arrangement shown in Figure 15, 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.

[00212] In the view of Figure 15, at the initial state, the dolly 1201B makes contact with the first surface 1602A and the second surface 1602B, via legs 1201B-1 and 1201B-2 associated with dolly 1201B. 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 1201B is actuated again, the dolly 1201B 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 1201B again.

[00213] In the above embodiment, the dolly 1201B 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 1201B may make contact with the first slanted surface 1604A and second slanted surface 1604B of the protrusions 1601A and 1601B. 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.

[00214] As can be seen from Figure 15, 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.

[00215] 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.

[00216] From Figure 13 and Figure 15, 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 1201A, with an operational part 1200 being a dolly 1201B.

[00217] 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.

[00218] Figure 16 shows the switch assembly of Figure 15 with operational part 1200 in cover unit or switch plate 200, connected to base unit 100, to form system 300.

[00219] 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.

[00220] Figure 17A 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 19) and a corresponding plate of another type (for example square-cornered plate - see Figure 19).

[00221] The following describes how to fit or connect the operational part 1200 and the cover unit or switch plate 200.

[00222] 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.

[00223] 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.

[00224] 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.

[00225] Figure 17A 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 17B is an exploded perspective rear view of the system 300 according to this aspect.

[00226] In this aspect, as shown in Figure 17B, a retaining portion 1203 is provided to retain the carrier 1202 to the cover unit 200. In the embodiment shown in Figure 17B, the retaining portion 1203 is a clip structure 1203A.

[00227] In this embodiment, the plate or cover unit 200 in Figures 17A and 17B 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. 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.

[00228] Figure 18A is an exploded perspective front view of a system 300 with an operational part 1200 being provided by a rocker or dolly 1201B as the user interface 1201 according to another embodiment. Figure 18B is an exploded perspective back view of the switch system according to this embodiment.

[00229] In this embodiment, operational part 1200 in Figure 18 includes a dolly, instead of the push-button in Figure 17. Although the dolly replaces the push button, the clip structure 1203A can be the same.

[00230] 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.

[00231] 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 3000.

[00232] Although in Figures 17 and 18, 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.

[00233] 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.

[00234] Although Figure 17 shows an embodiment of this aspect as a button switch assembly, and Figure 18 shows an embodiment as rocker switch assembly, it will be appreciated that other forms of operational part 1200 such as a rotary switch assembly, and toggle switch assembly can be used, as can other switch types not explicitly described herein.

[00235] Details of various other forms of switch systems are described in detail in Australian Patent Application No 2015275227 entitled "Switch Assembly, System and Method", Australian Patent Application No 2015275234 entitled "Push Button Switch Assembly And Operational Part", and Australian Patent Application No 2015275233 entitled "Switch Assembly with Rotatable Operational Part" previously incorporated by reference.

[00236] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 17 and 18, the plate or cover unit 200 can be of any desired shape or appearance.

[00237] 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 1201B 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 19, 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 19, the switch interface 1201 is changed from a round dolly 1201B to a square dolly 1201B'.

[00238] In other embodiments, as shown in Figure 20, 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.

[00239] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 21, 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 data input 170 and base data output 180 are provided by the same element, such as a transceiver.

[00240] In some embodiments, base data input 170 and/or base data output 180 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.

[00241] 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.

[00242] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 22, base unit 200 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 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 200 has only base supply power output 190 and no base power output 180. In these embodiments, cover unit 200 does not receive power from base unit 200 but may have its own on-board power source such as a battery, or may only have mechanical or passive components and may not require any power to perform its function.

[00243] In another aspect, there is provided a cover unit 200 as shown in Figure 23. 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.

[00244] The cover connector 220 is shown generically in Figure 23 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 120 can be either the loop component of the connector or the hook component.

[00245] In other embodiments, cover unit 200 comprises a cover power input 210 for receiving power output from base unit 100 as shown in Figure 24.

[00246] Cover 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.

[00247] In some embodiments, cover power input 210 and cover connector 220 can be provided by the same element. In one such embodiment, the connection of cover power input 210 to the base 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.

[00248] In some embodiments, cover power input 210 is provided by the secondary side of the inductive power transfer system previously described.

[00249] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 25, 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.

[00250] In other embodiments, as shown in Figure 26, cover unit 200 also comprises a cover data input 240 for receiving data. In one embodiment, the cover data input 240 receives, in use, data from the base unit 100. In other embodiments, cover 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 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 its entirety. In this embodiment, cover unit 200 can comprise elements of the power outlet described therein.

[00251] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 27, 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 data input 240 and cover data output 250 are provided by the same element, such as a transceiver.

[00252] In some embodiments, cover 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.

[00253] In some embodiments, cover data output 250 is provided by the secondary side of the inductive power transfer system previously described.

[00254] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 comprises a cover switch interface 260 as shown in Figure 28, 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.

[00255] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 comprises functional circuitry 280 which is powered in some embodiments, by power received by cover 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.

[00256] In some embodiments, functional circuitry 280 is controlled by user interface 230.

[00257] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 comprises a memory 270 for storing data.

[00258] In another aspect, there is provided a system 300 comprising the base unit 100 and the cover unit 200 as shown in Figure 29. In this embodiment, base unit 100 is mounted to surface 40 (for example a wall) via base unit 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.

[00259] In another embodiment of system 300, shown in Figure 30, cover unit 200 also receives power from base unit 100 via base power output 150 and cover power input 210 to power any functional circuitry that may be contained in cover unit 200.

[00260] 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.

[00261] 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.

[00262] 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.

[00263] Examples of some embodiments of cover units with functional circuitry and/or active components are described in Australian Provisional Patent Applications entitled "Electrical Outlet Faceplate" and "Electrical Attachment Accessory", previously incorporated by reference.

[00264] 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 200 completely covers and/or extends 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 100a 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.

[00265] Various connectors and interfaces will now be described in more detail in the context of various embodiments.

[00266] In one aspect, as shown generally in Figure 31, there is provided a base unit 100 for mounting to a surface, the base unit comprising two long edges 101a, 101b and two short edges 102a, 102b and at least one base connector 120 along at least one of the two long edges 101a.

[00267] In some embodiments, the at least one base connector 120 provides for a snap connection with a corresponding cover connector of a cover unit 200 for connection to the base unit 100 as will be described in more detail below.

[00268] In some embodiments, the at least one base connector 120 comprises a top edge 120a indented from the at least one long edge 101a, a first face 120b sloping between a face 106 of the base unit 100 and the top edge 120a on one side; and a second face 120c sloping away from the top edge 120a on a second side. Figure 32A shows a front view of the base unit according to these embodiments, showing the top edge 101a, a face 106, being generally defined by the main plane of one side of the base unit (e.g. front face), and the base connector 120. Figure 32B shows an enlarged view of the region depicted in the circle of Figure 32A, showing the top edge 120a and the first face 120b. It will be appreciated that the first face 120b need not begin at the face 106 but may begin at a different region and merely be disposed and sloping between the face 106 and the top edge 120a. In other embodiments, it may begin from the face 106 and extend and slope up to the top edge 120a.

[00269] Figure 32C shows a side view of the connector 120 along the cross-sectional line A-A'. This view shows face 106 of base unit 100, first face 120b of base connector 120, top edge 120a of base connector 120 and second face 120c of base connector 120, sloping away from top edge 120a.

[00270] Figure 33 shows the view of Figure 32C according to some other embodiments, in which a third face 120d extends substantially parallel to the face 106. In some embodiments, third face 120d extends from second face 120c, in other embodiments, third face 120d extends from another feature, between second face 120c.

[00271] In another aspect, there is provided a base unit 100 for mounting to a surface, the base unit 100 comprising two long edges 101a, 10lb and two short edges 102a, 102b. Figure 34 shows an embodiment of this aspect. As seen in Figure 44, base unit 100 comprises at least one set of two base connectors 120, 120' along at least one of the two long edges (for example 101a). It will be understood that the terms "long edge" and "short edge" are merely comparative terms with respect to each other (i.e. the "long edge" is longer than the "short edge") and are not intended to indicate any objective measurements or degrees of actual lengths.

[00272] The base connector 120 can be any type of suitable connector as previously described, including a clipping arrangement, or a magnet for attracting and retaining a region of the base unit 100. 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 220 can be either the loop component of the connector or the hook component.

[00273] In some embodiments, these base connectors provide a snap connection arrangement to allow the cover unit 200 to be snapped into connection as will be described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the base connector 120 is that described previously with reference to Figures 42A, 42B, 42C and/or Figure 33.

[00274] In some embodiments, base unit 100 comprises two base connectors 120, 120' along the at least one of the two long edges 101a as shown in Figure 34. In other embodiments, the base unit 100 also comprises two base connectors 120", 120"" along a second of the two long edges 101b as shown in Figure 35.

[00275] In other embodiments still, base unit 100 comprises at least one base connector 120 on one or more of the short edges 102a, 102b and in some embodiments, comprise 2 base connectors on each of the four sides or edges as shown in Figure 36.

[00276] In another aspect, where there are at least two base connectors 120, 120' on a long edge 101a, the distance between these at least two base connectors 120, 120'is between 5.5cm and 7.5cm. In some embodiments, the distance is 6cm. Figure 37A shows an embodiment of base unit 100 with two base connectors 120, 120', where the distance between the base connectors is 6cm. It will be appreciated that this distance is measured from the two closest edges of the respective base connectors 120, 120'. In embodiments in which there are more than two base connectors on the edge 101a, this distance measurement will be satisfied if the distance between any two base connectors 120, 120' meet this criterion, even if there is a third or more other base connectors in between or on a far side.

[00277] In other embodiments, where there are at least two base connectors 120, 120' on a short edge 102a, the distance between these at least two base connectors 120, 120'is between 2cm and 4.5cm. In some embodiments, the distance is 3cm. Figure 37B shows an embodiment of base unit 100 with two base connectors 120, 120', where the distance between the base connectors is 3cm. It will be appreciated that this distance is measured from the two closest edges of the respective base connectors 120, 120'. In embodiments in which there are more than two base connectors on the edge 102a, this distance measurement will be satisfied if the distance between any two base connectors 120, 120' meet this criterion, even if there is a third or more other base connectors in between or on a far side.

[00278] In some embodiments, the base unit 100 comprises at least 8 base connectors 120...120"""', with 2 base connectors on each of two long edges and each of two short edges.

[00279] In some embodiments, the base unit 100 comprises at least one base supply power input 130 for receiving power from a mains or supply power source 50. In some embodiments, the base supply power input 130 is a terminal for connection to at least an active and a neutral wire of the mains or supply power source 50, and in yet other embodiments, for connection to an earth wire of the mains or supply power source 50.

[00280] In some embodiments the base unit 100 comprises at least one base power output 150 for providing a power output to a cover unit 200 as previously described. In some embodiments, the base unit 100 comprises at least one base supply power output 190 for providing mains or supply power from the base unit to an external device such as a television as previously described.

[00281] In other embodiments, the base unit 100 comprises at least one base data input 170 and/or at least one base data output 180.

[00282] In some embodiments, the base unit 100 comprises at least one base switch interface 160, for engaging with a cover switch interface as previously described.

[00283] Any combination of any of the above-described features and any combination of one or more of the base connectors 120 can be provided on the base unit 100.

[00284] In some embodiments, base unit 100 comprises a grid plate 100a of an electrical power outlet or switch plate assembly. Figure 38 shows an embodiment of base unit 100 comprising a grid plate 100a for an electrical power outlet such as a General Power Outlet (GPO). In this embodiment, grid plate 100a has a single base supply power output 190 for providing mains or supply electrical power to an external device. In this embodiment, the base supply power output 190 is a socket for receiving pins of a plug of the external device. This socket is connected to base supply power input 130 which in this embodiment is provided by a terminal block with terminals 103, 104, 105 for receiving Active, Neutral and Earth wires (see Figure 39B for example).

[00285] Also shown in Figure 38, in this embodiment, grid plate 100a has 8 base connectors 120, 120', 120", 120'...120'" ... (only 120, 120', 120' ''''and 120'" ...visible in this view) of the type previously described.

[00286] It will be appreciated that grid plate 100a can have any number of base supply power outputs 190, including, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 or more in different embodiments. In other embodiments the number of base connectors can also be different, including, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10 or more.

[00287] Figure 39A shows a front perspective view of another embodiment of grid plate 100a. In this embodiment, grid plate 100a has base supply power output 190, base connectors 120 to 120""'", and base switch interface 160 for engaging with a cover switch interface 260 (for example in the form of a switch rocker) as previously described, and for controlling the connection and disconnection of base supply power output 190 from the mains or supply power. This function will be described in more detail further below.

[00288] Figure 39B shows a rear view of the grid plate 100a of Figure 39A. In this view, there is shown the base supply power inputl30, provided as a terminal block with terminals 103, 104, 105 for receiving Active, Neutral and earth wires from a mains or supply source. Also seen are the base connectors 120, 120'...120.""".

[00289] Figure 40A shows another embodiment of grid plate 100a with a single base supply power output 190 and a base switch interface 160. This is the same arrangement as in Figure 39A, however, in this embodiment, the grid plate is of a vertical orientation as compared to the horizontal orientation of Figure 39A.

[00290] Figure 40B shows another embodiment of grid plate 100a with two base supply power outputs 190, 190' and corresponding base switch interfaces 160, 160'.

[00291] Figure 40C shows another embodiment of grid plate 100a with two base supply power outputs 190, 190' and corresponding base switch interfaces 160, 160'. In this embodiment, a third base switch interface 160"of the type described above with reference to Figures 10A, 1OB for example, is provided to allow a user to actuate another switch associated with base unit switch part 510.

[00292] Figure 40D shows another embodiment of grid plate 100a with four base supply power outputs 190, 190, 190", 190"' and corresponding base switch interfaces 160, 160', 160", 160"'. In this embodiment, two apertures 161, 161' for respective base switch interface 160 of the type described above with reference to Figures 1OA, 1OB for example, are provided. An appropriate base unit switch part 510 can be connected to a base switch interface mounting region 220 of grid plate 100a (see for example Figure 41B). The connection can be by any suitable means including by the sliding connector means as described in Australian Patent Application No 2015275232 entitled "Connection System and Method for Electrical Outlets", previously incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[00293] Figure 41A shows another embodiment of base unit 100 provided as a switch grid plate. In these embodiments, the grid plate has connectors 120 (in the embodiment shown in Figure 41A, there are 8 connectors 120 to 120"""', however it will be appreciated that the switch grid plate can have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more base connectors)

[00294] It will also be understood that the terms "grid plate" , "power socket grid plate" and "switch grid plate" can be used interchangeably in some embodiments, such as described with reference to Figures 40C and 40D, in which the grid plate has both elements of a power socket and a switch assembly.

[00295] Figure 41B shows a rear view of the grid plate of Figure 41A, showing base unit mounting region 110, in this embodiment comprising flat surfaces (for direct engagement with a surface such as a wall), base connectors 120 to 120'""., and base switch interface mounting region 220.

[00296] Figures 42A, 42B, 42C, 42D and 42E show further embodiments of switch grid plate 100a, with 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 apertures 161 for respective base switch interfaces 160.

[00297] According to a general aspect, there is provided a base unit 100 comprising at least one base connector 120, the base connector comprising a top edge 120a indented from at least one edge of the base unit 100, a first face 120b sloping between a face 106 of the base unit 100 and the top edge 120a on one side, and a second face 120c sloping away from the top edge 120a on a second side. This arrangement is as previously shown and described with reference to Figures 32B, 32C, however, in this aspect, the edge of the base unit from which the top edge 120a of the base connector 120 can be any edge of the base unit, including a long edge and a short edge. In embodiments in which the base unit 100 does not have a long edge or a short edge (for example a square shape or circular shape), the top edge 120a of base connector 120 can be provided along any of one or more of these edges.

[00298] In other embodiments of this aspect, base connector 120 also has a third face 120d extending substantially parallel to the face 106 of the base unit 100 from the second face 120c, as shown in Figure 33. In other embodiments, third face 120d extends at a different angle.

[00299] According to another aspect, as shown in Figure 43A, there is provided a cover unit 200 for connection to the base unit 100. In some embodiments, the cover unit 200 comprises two long edges 205, 205'and two short edges 206, 206'; and at least one cover connector 220 along at least one of the two long edges 205, 205'for engaging with a corresponding one of the at least one base connector 120 of the base unit 100.

[00300] In other embodiments, the cover connector 220 can be provided on any of the edges of cover unit 200, and including a long edge and a short edge. In embodiments in which the cover unit 200 does not have a long edge or a short edge (for example a square shape or circular shape), the cover connector 220 can be provided along any of one or more of these edges.

[00301] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 comprises two cover connectors 220, 220' along the least one of the two long edges 205 as shown in Figure 43B

[00302] In some embodiments, the cover connector 220 provides for a snap connection with a corresponding base connector 120 of the base unit 100.

[00303] In some embodiments, the cover connector 220 comprises at least one cover connector protrusion 220a as shown in Figure 44. Figure 44 shows a side view of a generic cover unit 200 with a generically-shaped cover connector protrusion 220a. In other embodiments, cover connector 220 can be any other suitable type of connector including any of those previously referred to.

[00304] In some embodiments, the cover connector protrusion 220a comprises at least one cover connector protrusion engaging region 220b for engaging with the second face 120c of the base connector 120 when the cover unit 200 is connected to the base unit 100, to thereby retain the cover unit 200 to the base unit 100.

[00305] In some embodiments, the cover connector protrusion 220a is triangular and the cover connector protrusion engaging region 220b is a side of the triangle, extending substantially parallel to the second face 120c of the base connector 120 when the cover unit 200 is connected to the base unit 100. Figures 45A and 46A to 46C show different embodiments of cover connector protrusion 220a.

[00306] In Figures 45A to 45C, the embodiment shown of cover connector protrusion 220a is the triangular embodiment, with one of the sides of the triangle providing the cover connector protrusion engaging region 220b, which, as shown in Figure 45C, engages with second face 120c of base connector 120. In this embodiment, cover connector protrusion 220a extends from an inside surface of cover unit 200. In forming the connection in this embodiment, the cover connector 220 is aligned with a corresponding base connector 120 of base unit 100 and forced towards base unit 100 as indicated by the arrow in Figure 45A. In doing so, the cover connector protrusion 220a first contacts first face 120b and causes the portion of cover unit 200 from which cover connector protrusion 220a extends, to flex, allowing cover connector protrusion 220a to slide along first face 120b up to top edge 120a of base connector 120 as shown in Figure 45B. As the force is continued to be applied to push cover unit 200 towards base unit 100, cover connector protrusion 220a continue past top edge 120a and the resiliency of the region of cover unit 200 from which cover connector protrusion 220a extends causes cover connector protrusion 220a to engage with and slide over second face 120c of base connector 120 as shown in Figure 45C. In this position, cover unit 200 is retained to base unit 100. To separate cover unit 200 from base unit 100, an outward force, with a direction opposite to that of the arrow shown in Figures 45A and 45B must be applied to reverse the process and release the engagement between the cover connector 220 and the base connector 120.

[00307] Figure 46A shows another embodiment of cover connector protrusion 220a, which is a different shape to that of the embodiment in Figures 45A to 45C. In this embodiment the same engagement between cover connector protrusion engaging region and second face 120c is provided. In the embodiment shown in Figure 46B, cover connector protrusion engaging region is provided by a point 220b which engages with second face 120c of base connector 120.

[00308] In the embodiment of Figure 46C, cover connector protrusion 220a has a cover connector protrusion engaging region 220b which in this embodiment, engages with third face 120d of base connector 120. As described with reference to Figures 45A to 45C, the engagement may be made in some embodiments, by aligning the cover connector 220 with the base connector 120 and forcing cover unit 200 towards base unit 100 to cause a portion of cover unit 200 to flex, allowing cover unit protrusion 220a to slide over first face 120b and over top edge 120a to engage with third face 120d.

In other embodiments, rather than a portion of cover unit 200 flexing as it is pushed towards base unit 100, cover connector 220 can be moveably-connected to cover unit 200 such that it can be independently moved out of the way of top edge 120a and then released once cover unit 200 is placed against base unit 100 to retain the two units together. In some embodiments, this moveable connection is a spring-loaded connection which allows cover unit connector 220 to be lifted and then released to assume its retaining position as shown in Figures 45C and 46A to 46C.

[00309] In other embodiments of cover unit 200, two cover connectors 220", 220.'are also provided on the other 205b of the two long edges as shown in Figure 47.

[00310] In some embodiments, the distance between the two cover connectors 220, 220' along the at least one of the long edges 205 is between 5.5cm and 7.5cm. In some embodiments, the distance is 6cm as shown in Figure 49A.

[00311] It will be appreciated that this distance is measured from the two closest edges of the respective cover connectors 220, 220'. In embodiments in which there are more than two cover connectors on the edge 205a for example, this distance measurement will be satisfied if the distance between any two cover connectors 220, 220' meets this criterion, even if there is a third or more other cover connectors in between or on a far side.

[00312] In some embodiments, at least one cover connector 220 is provided on at least one of the short edges 206a as shown in Figure 49B. In some embodiments, a single cover connector 220, 220' is provided on each of the two short edges 206a, 206b respectively as shown in Figure 49C.

[00313] In other embodiments, at least two cover connectors 220", 220""', 220""", 220""'" are provided along each of the two short edges 206a, 206b as shown in Figure 49D.

[00314] In some embodiments, in which there are at least two cover connectors 220, 220' on a short edge 206a, the distance between these at least two cover connectors 220, 220'is between 0cm and 4.5cm. In some embodiments, the distance is 3cm. Figure 49E shows an embodiment of cover unit 200 with two cover connectors 220, 220', where the distance between the cover connectors is 3cm. It will be appreciated that this distance is measured from the two closest edges of the respective cover connectors 220, 220'. In embodiments in which there are more than two cover connectors on the edge 206a, this distance measurement will be satisfied if the distance between any two cover connectors

220, 220' meets this criterion, even if there is a third or more other cover connectors in between or on a far side.

[00315] It will also be appreciated that any combination of cover connectors 220 can be provided on any, some or all sides of cover unit 200, including 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more cover connectors 220.

[00316] In some embodiments, the cover unit 200 is a face plate of an electrical power outlet assembly comprising a grid plate (base unit 100) and the face plate.

[00317] In some embodiments, the cover unit 200 is a face plate of an electrical switch plate assembly comprising a grid plate base unit 100) and the face plate. In other embodiments, the cover unit 200 is a face plate comprising a combination of switch plate and socket plate elements.

[00318] In some embodiments, cover unit, provided as a face plate 200 comprises at least one cover power input 210 for receiving power from the at least one base power output 150 as previously described. In some embodiments, cover unit 200 of this aspect is as described in Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Electrical Outlet Faceplate", filed on 30 September 2016; Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Electrical Outlet Faceplate and System" filed on 30 September 2016; and Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Electrical Attachment Accessory" filed on 30 September 2016, all previously incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[00319] In some embodiments, face plate 200 comprises at least one cover data input 240 for receiving data from the at least one base data output 180 as previously described.

[00320] In some embodiments, face plate 200 comprises at least one cover switch interface 260 for engagement with the at least one base switch interface 160 as previously described and as described in Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Electrical Outlet Faceplate", filed on September 2016; Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Electrical Outlet Faceplate and System" filed on 30 September 2016; and Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Electrical Attachment Accessory" filed on 30 September 2016.

[00321] In some embodiments, face plate 200 comprises a user interface 230 and in some embodiments, face plate 200 comprises a cover data output 250 as previously described.

[00322] In some embodiments, face plate 200 comprises a cover power supply 290 and in some embodiments, comprises functional circuitry 280, again as described in Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Electrical Outlet Faceplate", filed on 30 September 2016; Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Electrical Outlet Faceplate and System" filed on 30 September 2016; and

Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Electrical Attachment Accessory" filed on 30 September 2016.

[00323] Figure 50A shows an embodiment of cover unit 200 provided as a face plate for connection to a base unit provided as a grid plate100a as previously described. In this embodiment, cover unit 200 is a face plate for use in a power outlet assembly. In this embodiment, face plate 200 has power connector receiver 215 comprising receiver pin apertures 216a, 216b, 216c for receiving pins from a plug of an external device such as a television set, to allow access to the sockets of base supply power output 190 as previously described. Also provided in this embodiment is aperture 201 for providing access to base switch interface 160 by cover switch interface 260 as previously described.

[00324] Also shown in this embodiment is cover unit recess 202 for providing a means to apply a "disconnection force" by the user to remove face plate 200 from grid plate 100a as described previously in relation to connectors 120 and 220. In this embodiment, a user's finger nail or other tool such as a screwdriver can be inserted into cover unit recess 202 to provide purchase to apply the force to pull face plate 200 from grid plate 100a. Of course, not all embodiments need have this feature.

[00325] Figure 50B shows a rear perspective view of the face plate 200 of Figure 50A. In this embodiment, cover connectors 220 can be seen. In this particular embodiments, there are eight cover connectors 220, 220', 220", 220"', 220"", 220"'", 220""", 220"""' distributed about the periphery of face plate 200. In this embodiment, cover connectors 220 are of the type described previously with reference to Figures 45A to 45C for interfacing with and connecting to the base connectors 120 of Figures 32A to 33. In some embodiments too, a second cover unit recess 202'is provided on another edge of face plate 200 as shown in Figure 50B to provide an additional location to apply a disconnecting force. In some embodiments, further cover unit recesses 202 may be provided at the same and/or other edges.

[00326] It will also be noted that in this embodiment, each cover connector 220 comprises two cover connector protrusions 220a, each of triangular shape in this embodiment. Providing two cover connector protrusions for each cover connector 220 provides a stronger connection than with one cover connection protrusion.

[00327] Figures 51A to 5ID show further embodiments of face plate 200. Figure 51A shows an arrangement similar to that of the embodiment of Figure 50A, except having a vertical orientation rather than a horizontal orientation. Figure 51B shows a face plate 200 with two power connector receivers 215, 215' and two apertures 201, 201'. Figure 51C shows a face plate 200 with two power connector receivers 215, 215' and three apertures 201, 201', 201". Figure 5ID shows a face plate 200 with four power connector receivers 215, 215', 215", 215'" and six apertures 201, 201', 201", 201"', 201'''',201' .'''

[00328] Figures 52A and 52B shows another embodiment of face plate 200 provided as a face plate for a switch plate assembly. Figure 51A shows face plate 200 with aperture 201 for receiving a cover switch interface 260 such as user interface 1201, or switch dolly or rocker as previously described. Figure 52B shows a rear view of the face plate 200 of Figure 52A, showing aperture 201 and cover connectors 220. In this embodiment, eight cover connectors 220 to 220"""' are shown.

[00329] Figures 53A, 53B, 53C, 53D and 53E show further embodiments of face plate 200 with varying numbers of apertures 201, including 0, 2, 3, 4 and 5.Each of these embodiments will have 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more cover connectors 220 as previously described.

[00330] Figure 54 shows a cross-section of an embodiment of a system 300 comprising a base unit 100 (for example provided as a grid plate) and a cover unit 100 (for example provided as a face plate). The face plate 200 is connected to grid plate 100a via cover connectors 220, 220' engaging with base connectors 120, 120' as previously described.

[00331] According to another aspect, there is provided a method of connecting the cover unit 200 previously described to the base unit 100, the method comprising: aligning the at least one cover connector 220 with a corresponding one of the at least one base connector 120; and engaging the cover connector with the corresponding base connector to thereby retain the cover unit to the base unit. In some embodiments, the step of aligning comprises aligning 8 cover connectors with 8 corresponding base connectors and the step of engaging the at least one cover connector with the corresponding base connector comprises engaging the 8 cover connectors with the 8 corresponding base connectors.

[00332] According to another aspect, there is provided a cover unit 200 for connection to the base unit 100. The cover unit 200 comprises at least one cover connector 220 comprising at least one cover connector protrusion 220a, the cover connector protrusion 220a comprising at least one cover connector engaging region 220b for engaging with the second face 120c of the base connector 120 when the cover unit 200 is connected to the base unit 100, to thereby retain the cover unit 200 to the base unit 100.In this aspect, the cover connector 220 can be located anywhere on cover unit 200.

According to another aspect, the connectors for the base connect 120 and the cover connector 220 are magnetic. In some embodiments then, base unit 100 comprises at least one base connector 120 wherein the at least one base connectorl20 is a magnet 122a or a material 122b that is attracted to a magnet.

[00333] Figure 55A shows an embodiment of base unit 100 (in this embodiment, provided as a grid for an electric socket assembly). In this embodiment, base connector 120 is provided by a material 122b (see Figure 55B) that is attracted to a magnet. In some embodiments, this material 122b is steel and in some embodiments, is hardened steel. In some embodiments, the alloy is identified as JIS G 3141 - SPCC-1B. In some embodiments, the material is coated with Zinc alloy as a surface treatment to prevent corrosion. Any other suitable material that is attracted to a magnet can be used, including any ferromagnetic material including iron and iron, cobalt and nickel, and their alloys. The presence of the material 122b can also provide a strengthening effect to the grid 100.

[00334] In the embodiment shown, a second material 122b' that is attracted to a magnet is also provided, but not all embodiments will have a second one, and other embodiments may 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more.

[00335] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 55A, a base magnet receiver 123 is provided on the front face of base unit 100 to receive a magnet 122a from the cover unit 200. It will be appreciated that not all embodiments will have a base magnet receiver 123.

[00336] It will also be noted that this embodiment shows the presence of base connectors 120 also in the form of the snap fit arrangement described previously. It will be appreciated that both the snap and the magnet forms may be provided, or in some embodiments, only the snap form and in other embodiments, only the magnet form.

[00337] Figure 56 shows another embodiment of base unit 100 with base connector 120 provided by a magnet 122a. In this embodiment, base unit 100 has four magnets 122a, 122a', 122a", 122a"', however, in other embodiments, there is only one magnet 122a and in other embodiments still, there are 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more magnets. The magnet may be made of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the magnet is made of neodymium.

[00338] Figures 57A and 57B show another embodiment of base unit 100 provided in this embodiment, as a grid for a switch assembly. In all other respects, this embodiment is the same as the embodiment shown in Figures 55A and 55B with the base magnet receiver 123 and material 122b that is attracted to a magnet.

[00339] Figure 58A shows an embodiment of cover unit 200 (in this embodiment shown as a face plate) for connection to base unit 100. In this embodiment, cover unit 100 has cover magnet receiver 221 for receiving a magnet. In this embodiment, four cover magnet receivers are shown, but other embodiments may have none, 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more.

[00340] Figure 58B shows another embodiment of cover unit 200 provided as a face plate. In this embodiment, cover magnet receiver 221 has a magnet 122a therein. In this embodiment, four magnets are shown, but other embodiments may have 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more. In some embodiments, there are no cover magnet receivers and the magnet 122a is attached directly to the cover unit 200 by any suitable means including gluing, welding or fusing to the cover unit material.

[00341] In other embodiments, where base unit 100 has one or more magnets, cover unit 200 will have one or more magnets and/or one or more materials 122b that are attracted to a magnet.

[00342] Figure 59 shows a system 300 (such as a switch assembly or an electric power outlet assembly) comprising base unit 100 and cover unit 200. In this embodiment, base unit 100 comprises two areas of material 122b, 122b' that is attracted to a magnet, and cover unit 200 comprises two magnets 122a and 122a'. As can be seen in this embodiment, magnets 122a, 122a' are received within respective base magnet receivers 123, 123' of base unit 100.

[00343] It will be appreciated that base unit 100 and cover unit 200 in this aspect can be of any form, including any of those previously described above. Furthermore, while the positions of the different magnets have been shown in certain embodiments herein, it will be appreciated that the position of the magnets can be at any suitable location. Furthermore, certain distances between certain magnets have been shown in specific embodiments. For example, in some embodiments as shown in Figure 56, the distance between the respective centres of the magnets 122a and 122a' is about 3cm, this distance be any suitable value, including between 1cm and 6cm, including 2cm, 3cm, 4cm, 5cm and 6cm. This distance can accord with the distances between respective centres of corresponding base magnet receivers 123 and 123' (see Figure 55A for example) of about 3cm, but can be any suitable value, including between about 1cm and 6cm, including about 2cm, 3cm, 4cm, 5cm and 6cm.Similarly, the distance between the respective centres of magnets 122a and 122a" (for example in Figure 58B) is between about 8cm and 9cm, but could range between about 4cm and10cm, including about 5cm, 6cm, 7cm, 8cm, 9cm and 10cm. These distances will correspond to equivalent respective centres of corresponding base magnet receivers 123 and 123" (see Figure 55A for example) of between about 8cm and 9cm, but could range between about 4cm and 10cm, including about 5cm, 6cm, 7cm, 8cm, 9cm and 10cm.

[00344] According to another aspect, there is also provided a method of connecting a cover unit 200 to a base unit 100, the method comprising: aligning the at least one cover connector with the at least one base connector; and placing the cover unit 200 in sufficient proximity to the base unit 100 such that the base connector 120 and the cover connector 220 are magnetically attracted to each other to thereby retain the cover unit 200 to the base unit 100.

[00345] According to yet another aspect, there is provided a base unit 100 for mounting to a surface, the base unit 100 comprising a base unit mounting region 110 at a rear of the base unit 100 for mounting the base unit 100 to the surface, and a front surface, the base unit 100 comprising at least one base switch interface 160 for engaging with a cover switch interface 260 of a cover unit 200 for connection to the base unit 100, wherein the front surface further comprises a base unit recess 125 about the at least one base switch interface 160 for accommodating the cover switch interface 260 when the cover unit 200 is connected to the base unit 100.

[00346] Figure 60A shows an embodiment of base unit 100 provided as a grid plate in this example. Shown in Figure 60 is base switch interface 160 as previously described, and base unit recess 125 surrounding at least a part of base switch interface 160. Figure 60B shows another embodiment of grid 100 with two base switch interfaces 160, 160'. In this embodiment, base unit recess 125 surrounds both base switch interfaces 160, 160'. In other embodiments, each base switch interface 160, 160' can have its own base unit recess 125.

As described above, base unit recess 125 is for accommodating the movement of cover switch interface previously described for example with reference to Figure 28 and Figure1OA in which cover unit switch interface 260 is provided by operational part 1200 in some embodiments. In some embodiments, base unit switch interface is provided by a switch dolly or rocker.

[00347] Figure 61 shows the assembly of base unit 100 and cover unit 200 according to this aspect. Shown is base switch interface 160 within base unit recess 125. Cover switch interface 260 engages with base switch interface 160 to actuate a switch as previously described. Base unit recess 125 accommodates the rocking action of cover unit switch interface 260 as it is actuated from one state to the other as indicated by the arrow. The provision of this base unit recess 125 facilitates unrestricted and full motion of the cover switch interface.

[00348] This feature of the base unit recess 125 can be provided in combination or arrangement of base unit 100, including any of the base units previously described. It will be appreciated of course, that in some embodiments, this feature is not incorporated in the base units described.

[00349] Figure 61 also shows an element 218 which is a cover unit support strut which, in some embodiments, can be provided on cover unit 200 to provide additional support for cover unit 200 over the base unit recess 125 when user switch interface is being actuated as shown in Figure 61.

[00350] Figure 62 shows an embodiment of cover unit 200 with several cover unit support struts 218. Cover unit support strut 218 can be any shape, but is provided as a triangular protrusion in this embodiment. This embodiment also shows a first row of 4 cover unit support struts 218, 218', 218", 218"'. A second row is provided at the bottom to provide support at the bottom where recess 125 extends to the bottom.

[00351] According to a further aspect, there is provided a base unit 100 for mounting to a surface, the base unit 100 comprising a base supply power input 130 for receiving supply or mains power; a base supply power output 190 for outputting the supply or mains power, the base supply power output 190 comprising at least two socket elements for receiving corresponding pins of a plug connected to a load; wherein at least a portion of a region surrounding at least one of the at least two socket elements is raised above a socket surface in which the at least one of the at least two socket elements is disposed.

[00352] Figure 63A-1 shows a general embodiment of base unit 100 (which in some embodiments is provided as a grid plate for a power outlet assembly). Base unit 100 in this aspect, comprises a base supply power output 190, which in some embodiments, comprises at least two socket elements 191a, 191b disposed in a socket surface 107 for receiving corresponding pins of a plug of an external device such as a television, and for providing supply or mains power to that external device. In some embodiments, the socket elements 191a, 191b correspond to Active and Neutral connections. In other embodiments, there are three socket elements, in which the third socket element 191c corresponds to an Earth connection.

[00353] As shown in Figure 63A-1, there is a raised portion 192a surrounding at least one of the socket elements 191a. Figure 63A-2 shows a side view of the base unit 100, showing raised portion 192a raised above socket surface 107.

[00354] The provision of this raised portion 192 has a number of purposes. In some electrical Standards, there is a requirement (A) for a certain length of the plug pin to be inserted without making electrical contact so as to become live. This is to reduce the risk that a plug could be partially inserted and a finger or foreign body could slip behind the plug and contact the exposed pins. There is also a requirement (B) for a certain length of the plug pin to be inserted and for contact to always be made. And finally there is a requirement (C) for a maximum length plug pin that must be able to be fully inserted. When the base unit/grid plate (in some embodiments) is tested without the cover unit/face plate (in some embodiments) it is desired to ensure that requirement (A) is satisfied i.e. the plug can be safely inserted without making premature contact with the current-carrying components. The feature of the raised portion 192a assists in satisfying requirement (A), while at the same time allowing to step down the main surface of the grid plate around the 3 socket apertures. This step down allows the face plate to be made thicker, stronger and easier to manufacture.

[00355] Figure 63B shows an embodiment of base unit 100 provided as a grid plate, with base supply power output 190 provided with three socket elements 191a, 191b, 191c. In this embodiment, each socket element 191a, 191b, 191c has corresponding raised portion 192a, 192b, 192c around the entire socket element. Figure 63C shows a front view of the base unit 100 of Figure 63C.

[00356] It will be appreciated that this aspect of the raised portion can be applied to any base unit or gird 100 previously described.

[00357] According to another aspect, there is provided a cover unit 200 for connecting to the base unit 100 described above with reference to Figures 63A-1 to 63C. In this aspect, the cover unit 200 comprises at least two receiver pin apertures for aligning with the at least two socket elements of the base unit, wherein at least a portion of a region surrounding at least one of the at least two apertures is recessed so as to receive the raised portion of the base unit.

[00358] Figure 64A-1 shows a general representation of cover unit 200 (which in some embodiments is provided as a face plate). Cover unit 200 has a power connector receiver 215, comprising at least two receiver pin apertures 216a, 216b for aligning with corresponding socket elements 191a, 191b. In this aspect, at least a portion of a region around at least one of the receiver pin apertures is recessed, to provide a receiver pin recess 217a. Figure 64A-2 shows a side view of a cross section along the line A-A in Figure 64A-1, showing the receiver pin recess 217a.

[00359] Figure 64B shows an embodiment of cover unit 200 as a face plate. In this embodiment, power connector receiver 215 comprises three receiver pin apertures 216a, 216b, 216c, each with corresponding receiver pin recesses 217a, 217b, 217c. Figure 64C shows a front view of the cover unit of Figure 64B.

[00360] When cover unit 200 in this aspect, is connected to base unit 100, the receiver pin recesses 217a, 217b, 217c receive within them, corresponding raised portions 192a, 192b, 192c, thereby providing a more robust fit, as well as providing a keying arrangement which can used to prevent incompatible cover units 200 from being connected to certain base units 100.

[00361] Figure 65 shows a cross section along the line A-A' of Figure 64A-1 when the cover unit 200 is connected to the base unit of Figure 63A-1.

[00362] It will be appreciated that this aspect of raised portion and receiver pin recess can be applied to any of base units and cover units including any of those previously described.

[00363] While the base unit/grid plate and cover unit/faceplate in these embodiments may be made of any suitable material, in some embodiments, the grid plate 100a is made of polycarbonate and the face plate 200 is made of ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and/or polycarbonate.

[00364] In the embodiments which have a translucent or transparent portion, this portion in some embodiments, is made from polycarbonate.

[00365] According to another aspect of ensuring compatibility between different elements of the systems components and assemblies described herein, use is made of different engagement or keying shapes between the user switch interface 260 and the base switch interface 160.

[00366] Figure 66A shows a base unit switch part 510 (in this case a switch mechanism) for connection to base unit 100. The base unit switch part 510 can be connected to base unit 100 by any suitable means, including the sliding lock method described in Australian Patent Application No 2015275232 entitled "Connection System and Method for Electrical Outlets" previously incorporated by reference.

[00367] As previously described (for example with reference to Figures 9A, 9B and 1OA and B), base unit switch part 510 comprises functional part 1000, and base switch interface 160.

[00368] Figure 66B shows a view of an embodiment of base switch interface 160 separated from functional part 1000. In this view, there can be seen first top surface 1603A and second top surface 1603B, which will engage with corresponding legs 1201B-1 and 1201B-2 as previously described for example with reference to Figure 15. Also shown in this embodiment of base switch interface is first keying recess 1603A-1 in first top surface 1603A and second keying recess 1603B in second top surface 1603B. The purpose of these elements will be described in more detail below.

[00369] Figure 67 shows another embodiment of base switch interface 160. In this embodiment, first keying recess 1603A-1 in first top surface 1603A and second keying recess 1603B in second top surface 1603B are offset from the centre of respective first and second top surfaces.

[00370] Figure 68A shows an embodiment of operational part 1200 comprising carrier 1202 and user interface 1201 (which in this embodiment also provides cover switch interface 260). In this embodiment, there are shown legs 1201B1 and 1201B-2. Also visible in this embodiment are keying points 1201B-la and 1201b-2a. In this embodiment, these keying points are associated with respective legs 1201B-1 and 1201B-2, but in other embodiments, they may be separate.

[00371] Figure 68B shows a plan view of the base switch interface 160 of Figure 67, with first top surface 1603A and second top surface 1603B and respective keying recesses 1603A-1 and 1603B 1.

[00372] It will be appreciated that keying points 1201B-la and 1201B-2a are offset from the centre so as to align with respective keying recesses 1603A-1 and 1603B-1 of the base switch interface 160, so as to provide a keying function so as to ensure that only user interface 1201 of Figure 68A will engage with base switch interface 160 of Figure 68B.

[00373] In another example, Figure 69A shows an embodiment of operational part 1200 comprising carrier 1202 and user interface 1201 (which in this embodiment also provides cover switch interface 260). In this embodiment, there are shown legs 1201B1 and 1201B-2. Also visible in this embodiment are keying points 1201B-la and 1201b-2a. In this embodiment, these keying points are associated with respective legs 1201B-1 and 1201B-2, but in other embodiments, they may be separate.

[00374] Figure 69B shows a plan view of the base switch interface 160 of Figure 66B, with first top surface 1603A and second top surface 1603B and respective keying recesses 1603A-1 and 1603B 1.

[00375] It will be appreciated that keying points 1201B-la and 1201B-2a are disposed on the centre so as to align with respective keying recesses 1603A-1 and 1603B-1 of the base switch interface 160 of Figure 69B, so as to provide a keying function so as to ensure that only user interface 1201 of Figure 69A will engage with base switch interface 160 of Figure 69B.

[00376] Different criteria can be associated with the different keying structures. For example, the arrangement of Figures 68A and 68B may be associated with a switch of a particular current level (for example associating the rocker of Figure 68A and the switch interface of Figure 68B with associated switch mechanism for a 32Amp current application) while allowing the rocker of Figure 69A and the switch interface of Figure 69B with associated switch mechanism for all other applications.

[00377] In another example of this aspect, Figure 70A shows an embodiment of operational part 1200 comprising carrier 1202 and user interface 1201 (which in this embodiment also provides cover switch interface 260). In this embodiment, there are shown legs 1201B1 and 1201B-2. Also visible in this embodiment are keying points 1201B-la and 1201b-2a. In this embodiment, these keying points are associated with respective legs 1201B-1 and 1201B-2, but in other embodiments, they may be separate.

[00378] Figure 70B shows a plan view of the base switch interface 160 for use in a power outlet arrangement such as a General Power Outlet (GPO) (as shown in Figure 60A for example), with first top surface 1603A and second top surface 1603B and respective keying recesses 1603A-1 and 1603B 1.

[00379] It will be appreciated that keying points 1201B-la and 1201B-2a are disposed so as to align with respective keying recesses 1603A-1 and 1603B-1 of the base switch interface 160 of Figure B, so as to provide a keying function so as to ensure that only user interface 1201 of Figure 70A will engage with base switch interface 160 of Figure 70B.

[00380] Figures 71A, 71B and 71C show an assembly or system 300, forming in this embodiment, a General Power Outlet (GPO) comprising base unit (provided as a grid plate in this embodiment) 100 and cover unit (provided as a face plate in this embodiment) 200.

[00381] Figure 71A shows grid plate 100a with two base supply power outputs 190, 190', base switch actuator 160 connected to functional part 1000, together forming base unit switch part 510, and base switch actuators 160', 160" for controlling current applied to respective base supply power outputs 190, 190' from base supply power input 130 (not visible in this view but as seen in Figure 39B as an example) and shown in Figure 71C below).

[00382] Figure 71B shows a front view of the assembly 300 with face late 200 in place and connected to grid plate 100a of Figure 71A. In this view, user interfaces 1201, 1201' and 1201" are provided with face plate 200 to engage with respective base switch interfaces 160 as previously described. In some embodiments, a different type of user interface will be used for 1201 (to engage with the base switch interface 160 of base unit switch part 510) than the user interfaces 1201', 1201" used to engage with base switch interfaces 160' and 160" as described above with reference to Figures 66A to 70B.

[00383] Figure 71C shows a cross section of assembly 300 along the line A-A of Figure 71B.Shown in this view are user interface 1201" engaged with base switch actuator 160", which is connected to a bridge 131 which makes and breaks contact between different terminals of base supply power input 130 to connect and disconnect mains or supply power to base supply power output 190' as user interface 1201" is actuated by the user, as will be understood by the person skilled in the art.

[00384] According to another aspect, there is provided cover unit 200 comprising a cover unit face 207 and a cover unit side 208 extending between the face and a periphery 209 of the cover unit 200, wherein at least a portion 208a of the cover unit side 208 is translucent or transparent.

[00385] Figure 72A shows a front perspective view of a general cover unit 200 provided as a face plate, having a cover unit face 207 and a cover unit side 208 extending between the cover unit face 207 and a periphery 209. In some embodiments, the cover unit side will extend from the cover unit face 207 and/or up to the periphery 209. In other embodiments, other elements will be disposed between the cover unit face 207 and the cover unit side 208 and/or between the cover unit side 208 and the periphery 209.

[00386] According to this aspect, at least a portion 208a of cover unit side 208 is translucent or transparent, allowing some light to pass through the portion 208a.

[00387] In some embodiments, the portion 208a that is translucent or transparent will allow a user to more easily locate any base connectors 120 and align the cover connectors 220 with the located connectors 120. In other embodiments, the portion 208a that is translucent or transparent will allow light that is generated from behind the cover unit 200 to shine through, providing an aesthetic effect, or providing a practical effect acting as a guide light or night light, In other embodiments still, the portion 208a that is translucent or transparent will allow a colour of a base unit, or of a surface to which the base unit is mounted, to be seen through the portion 208a. to provide an aesthetic effect or to provide information that may be indicated by the background colour (e.g. a red base unit or grid plate for a GPO).

[00388] In some embodiments, the at least the portion 208a of the side 208 that is transparent or translucent, is angled with respect to a plane defined by the cover unit face 207 at an angle greater than degrees.

[00389] Figure 73 shows an embodiment of cover unit 200 provided as a face plate as previously described, showing different views of the face plate 200. The Front View shows face plate 200 with cover unit face 207 and sides extending from cover unit face 207. In this embodiment, the entire side is the portion 208a that is translucent or transparent and runs around the entire length of the side, about the entire perimeter of cover unit face 207.

[00390] In the Top View, it can be seen that the portion 208a that is translucent or transparent on the edges, is angled at an angle 0 that is greater than 90 degrees, for example, 120 degrees as indicated by the arrow in the Top View of Figure 73.

[00391] From the Side Views of the cover unit 200, it can be seen that the portion 208a that is translucent or transparent is angled less than the portion 208a on the side edges as seen in the Top View as described previously. In this embodiment, this portion 208a is angled at an angle a, less than the angle 0, but still greater than 90 degrees. In some embodiments, this angle is about 96 degrees. In some embodiments however, part of the portion 208a (for example a top edge) will be angled at 90 degrees.

[00392] This greater angling of at least a part of the portion 208a that is translucent or transparent provides for more of a surface such as a wall on which the grid plate is mounted to be seen through the portion 208a, thus allowing more the colour of the wall to "bleed" through, than if the portion 208a were 90 degrees to the plane defined by cover unit face 207.

[00393] While the embodiment in Figure 73 shows that different parts of the portion 208a can be angled at different angles from other parts, it will be appreciated that all parts can be angled at the same angle in other embodiments.

[00394] While the embodiment shown in Figure 73 also shows the angle of the portion on the edge of the face plate 200 to be about 120 degrees, and in some embodiments about 122 degrees, it will be appreciated that any other suitable angle can be adopted, including an angle greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees; including an angle greater than 95 degrees and less than 170 degrees; and including an angle greater than 100 degrees and less than 140 degrees.

[00395] In some embodiments, the translucent or transparent portion (when translucent) can be coloured so as to provide further effects.

[00396] According to another aspect, there is provided a user interface 1201 for connection to an operational part 1200 of a switch assembly 500, the user interface 1201 comprising at least a portion 1214 that is translucent or transparent.

[00397] Figure 74 shows an embodiment of user interface 1201, in this example, as a switch rocker or dolly. The rocker or dolly has a switch face 1210 and a switch side 1211 extending between the switch face 1210 and a switch periphery 1212. In this embodiment, the at least a portion 1214 that is translucent or transparent is located on the switch side 1211 In other embodiments, the portion 1214 that is translucent or transparent is located on the switch face 1210.

[00398] Figure 74 shows user interface 1201 in various views. From the Top View and the Perspective View, it can be seen that the top side is translucent or transparent (as indicated by the shaded area). Figure 74 also shows user interface connector 1213 which is used to connect the user interface to a carrier 1202 (not shown in this figure but previously described). Legs 1201B-1 and 1201B-2 are also visible in this view.

[00399] It will be appreciated that user interface 1201 can be of any suitable form including the push button 1201A, rocker/dolly 1201B, rotary knob 1201C and toggle 1201D previously described. Furthermore, as described with reference to Figures 68A, 69A and 70A, there can be many variations within each type of user interface 1201.

[00400] Figure 75 shows another embodiment of user interface 1201 according to this aspect, in which the portion 1214 that is translucent or transparent is provided on the entire side 1211 of the rocker.

[00401] The translucent or transparent portion allows at least a portion of light that is generated behind or below user interface 1201 to shine through. This can provide an indication of status of the switch and/or can provide an aesthetic effect, or provide a functional effect such as a guiding light for emergencies.

[00402] In one example, a light source such as a light emitting diode (LED) can be provided within a base unit switch part 510 such as a switch mechanism connected to the base unit 100. In this example, at least a portion of the light generated by the LED will shine through the translucent or transparent portion 1214. An example of such an arrangement is described in Australian Provisional Patent Application No 2016902592 entitled "Electrical Device With Light Emitting Diode" previously incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[00403] In some embodiments, the translucent or transparent portion (when translucent) can be coloured so as to provide further effects.

[00404] 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.

[00405] 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.

[00406] 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 preferred embodiment with regard to the particular elements and/or features described or depicted herein. It will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to the embodiment or embodiments disclosed, but is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth and defined by the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMS A. Clip CONNECTORS

1. A base unit for mounting to a surface, the base unit comprising: two long edges and two short edges; and at least one base connector along at least one of the two long edges.

2. A base unit as claimed in claim 1 wherein the at least one base connector provides for a snap connection with a corresponding cover connector of a cover unit for connection to the base unit.

3. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 or 2 wherein the at least one base connector comprises; a top edge indented from the at least one long edge; a first face sloping between a face of the base unit and the top edge on one side; and a second face sloping away from the top edge on a second side.

4. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3 comprising two base connectors along the at least one of the two long edges.

5. A base unit as claimed in claim 4 comprising two base connectors along a second of the two long edges.

6. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein two base connectors are also provided along each of the two short edges.

7. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 6 wherein the distance between the two base connectors along the at least one of the two long edges is between 5.5cm and 7.5cm.

8. A base unit as claimed in claim 7 wherein the distance is 6cm.

9. A base unit as claimed in claim any one of claims 6 to 8 wherein the distance between the two base connectors along each of the two short edges is between 2cm and 4.5cm.

10. A base unit as claimed in claim 9 wherein the distance is 3cm.

11. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the base unit comprises a grid plate of an electrical power outlet.

12. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 10 wherein the base unit comprises a grid plate of an electrical switch plate assembly.

13. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to11 comprising at least one base supply power input for receiving power from a mains or supply power source.

14. A base unit as claimed in claim 13 wherein the base supply power input is a terminal for connection to at least an active and a neutral wire of the mains or supply power source.

15. A base unit as claimed in claim 14 comprising a terminal for connection to an earth wire of the mains or supply power source.

16. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 15 comprising at least one base power output.

17. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 13 or 14 comprising at least one base supply power output.

18. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims I to 17 comprising at least one base data output.

19. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8 comprising at least one base switch interface.

20. A base unit comprising at least one base connector, the base connector comprising: a top edge indented from at least one edge of the base unit; a first face sloping between a face of the base unit and the top edge on one side; and a second face sloping away from the top edge on a second side.

21. A base unit as claimed in claim 20 comprising a third face extending substantially parallel to the face of the base unit from the second face.

22. A cover unit for connection to the base unit of any one of claims I to 21, the cover unit comprising: two long edges and two short edges; and at least one cover connector along at least one of the two long edges for engaging with a corresponding one of the at least one base connector of the base unit.

23. A cover unit as claimed in claim 22 comprising two cover connectors along the least one of the two long edges.

24. A cover unit as claimed in claim 23 wherein the cover connector provides for a snap connection with a corresponding base connectors of the base unit.

25. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 23 or 24 wherein the cover connector comprises at least one cover connector protrusion.

26. A cover unit as claimed in claim 25 wherein the connector protrusion comprises at least one cover connector engaging region for engaging with the second face of the base connector when the cover unit is connected to the base unit, to thereby retain the cover unit to the base unit.

27. A cover unit as claimed in claim 26 the cover connector protrusion is triangular and the cover connector protrusion engaging region is a side of the triangle, extending substantially parallel to the second face of the base connector when the cover unit is connected to the base unit.

28. A cover unit as claimed in claim 25 wherein the cover connector protrusion comprises at least one cover connector protrusion engaging region for engaging with the third face of the base connector when the cover unit is connected to the base unit, to thereby retain the cover unit to the base unit.

29. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 25 or 26 wherein the cover connector comprises two cover connector protrusions for engagement with the second face or the third face of the corresponding base connector.

30. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 27 wherein two cover connectors are also provided on the other of the two long edges.

31. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 28 wherein at least two cover connectors are also provided along each of the two short edges.

32. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 29 wherein the distance between the two cover connectors along the at least one of the long edges is between 5.5cm and 7.5cm.

33. A cover unit as claimed in claim 30 wherein the distance is 6cm.

34. A cover unit as claimed in claim any one of claims 29 to 31 wherein the distance between the two cover connectors along at least one of the two short edges is between 0cm and 4.5cm.

35. A cover unit as claimed in claim 32 wherein the distance is 3cm.

36. A cover unit as clamed in any one of claims 22 to 33 wherein the cover unit is a face plate of an electrical power outlet.

37. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 33 wherein the cover unit is a face plate of an electrical switch plate assembly.

38. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 35 comprising at least one cover power input for receiving power from the at least one base power output.

39. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 36 comprising at least one cover data input for receiving data from the at least one base data output.

40. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 37 comprising at least one cover switch interface for engagement with the at least one base switch interface.

41. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 38 comprising user interface.

42. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 39 comprising a cover data output.

43. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 40 comprising a cover power supply.

44. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 41 comprising a cover power supply.

45. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 42 comprising functional circuitry.

46. A cover unit for connection to the base unit of any one of claims 20 or 21, comprising a cover connector comprising at least one cover connector protrusion, the cover connector protrusion comprising at least one cover connector engaging region for engaging with the second face of the base connector when the cover unit is connected to the base unit, to thereby retain the cover unit to the base unit.

47. A cover unit as claimed in claim 46 wherein the cover connector protrusion is triangular and the cover connector protrusion engaging region is a side of the triangle, extending substantially parallel to the second face of the base connector when the cover unit is connected to the base unit.

48. A cover unit as claimed in claim 46 wherein the cover connector protrusion comprises at least one cover connector protrusion engaging region for engaging with the third face of the base connector when the cover unit is connected to the base unit, to thereby retain the cover unit to the base unit.

49. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 46 to 48 wherein the cover connector comprises two cover connector protrusions for engagement with the second face or the third face of the corresponding base connector.

50. A system comprising: The base unit as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21; and The cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 49 connected to the base unit.

51. A method of connecting the cover unit of any one of claims 22 to 49 to the base unit of any one of claims I to 21, the method comprising: aligning the at least one cover connector with a corresponding one of the at least one base connector; and engaging the cover connector with the corresponding base connector to thereby retain the cover unit to the base unit.

B. MAGNET CONNECTORS

52. A base unit for mounting to a surface, the base unit comprising: at least one base connector wherein the at least one base connector is a magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet.

53. A base unit as claimed in claim1 comprising two base connectors that are magnets or a material that is attracted to a magnet.

54. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 46 or 47 wherein the base unit is a grid for an electrical power outlet

55. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 46 or 47 wherein the base unit is a switch plate for supporting at least one switch mechanism.

56. A base unit as claimed in claim 48 comprising a base unit supply power input for receiving supply or mains power.

57. A base unit as claimed in claim 50 wherein the base unit supply power input two terminals for receiving a respective one of an active wire and a neutral wire from a supply or mains power source.

58. A base unit as claimed in claim 51 wherein the base supply power input comprises a third terminal for receiving an earth wire from the supply or mains power source.

59. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 46 to 52 wherein the at least one connector is a magnet.

60. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 46 to 52 wherein the base unit comprises a rear face for placing against the surface for mounting and a front face opposite to the rear face, the front face comprising a magnet recess for receiving a magnet connected to a cover unit for connection to the base unit, and wherein the base connector is a material that is attracted to the magnet, the material being disposed on the rear face behind the magnet recess.

61. A base unit as claimed in claim 54 comprising four magnet recesses for receiving corresponding magnets of the cover unit.

62. A cover unit for connecting to the base unit of any one of claims 46 to 55 comprising at least one cover connector, wherein the cover connector is a magnet or a material that is attracted to a magnet.

63. A cover unit as claimed in claim 56 wherein the cover unit comprises the magnet.

64. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 56 or 57 wherein the cover unit is a face plate and the base unit is comprises a grid plate.

65. A cover unit as claimed in claim 58 wherein the magnet is shaped and positioned on the face plate so as to be received within a corresponding one of the magnet recesses of the grid plate.

66. A cover unit as claimed in claim 59 comprising four magnets, each shaped and positioned so as to be received in corresponding magnet recesses of the grid plate.

67. A system comprising: The base unit of any one of claims 46 to 55; and The cover unit of any one of claims 56 to 60, connected to the base unit.

68. A method of connecting a cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 56 to 60 to a base unit as claimed in any one of claims 42 to 51, the method comprising: aligning the at least one cover connector with the at least one base connector; and placing the cover unit in sufficient proximity to the base unit such that the base connector and the cover connector are magnetically attracted to each other to thereby retain the cover unit to the base unit.

C. GRID RECESS

69. A base unit for mounting to a surface, the base unit comprising a mounting surface at a rear of the base unit for mounting the base unit to the surface, and a front surface, the base unit comprising at least one base switch interface for engaging with a cover switch interface of a cover unit for connection to the base unit, wherein the front surface further comprises a base unit recess about the at least one base switch interface for accommodating the cover switch interface when the cover unit is connected to the base unit.

70. A base unit as claimed in claim 63 comprising at least one recess for receiving a retaining portion of the cover unit for retaining the cover switch interface to the cover unit.

71. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 63 or 64 wherein the base unit comprises a grid plate.

72. A cover unit for connecting to the base unit of any one of claims 64 to 65 comprising at least one cover unit support strut for being received in the recessed region of the base unit.

73. A cover unit as claimed in claim 66 wherein the cover unit is a face plate.

74. A system comprising: The base unit as claimed in any one of claims 63 to 65; and The cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 66 or 67, connected to the base unit.

D. SOCKET RIDGES/KEYING

75. A base unit for mounting to a surface, the base unit comprising; a base supply power input for receiving supply or mains power; a base supply power output for outputting the supply or mains power, the base supply power output comprising at least two socket elements for receiving corresponding pins of a plug connected to a load; wherein at least a portion of a region surrounding at least one of the at least two socket elements is raised above a socket surface in which the at least one of the at least two socket elements is disposed.

76. A base unit as claimed in claim 69 wherein at least a portion of a region surrounding both of the at least two sockets is raised.

77. A base unit as claimed in any one of claims 69 or 70 wherein the base unit comprises a grid plate.

78. A cover unit for connecting to the base unit of any one of claims 69 to 71, the cover unit comprising at least two apertures for aligning with the at least two sockets of the base unit, wherein at least a portion of a region surrounding at least one of the at least two apertures is recessed so as to receive the raised portion of the base unit.

79. A cover unit as claimed in claim 72 wherein the cover unit is a face plate.

80. A system comprising: The base unit of any one of claims 69 to 71; and The cover unit of any one of claims 72 or 73, connected to the base unit.

E. TRANSLUCENT/TRANSPARENT FACE PLATE

81. A cover unit as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 49, 62 to 66, 72, 73, 78 or 79 comprising a cover unit face and a cover unit side extending between the face and a periphery of the cover unit, wherein at least a portion of the cover unit side is translucent or transparent.

82. A cover unit as claimed in claim 81 wherein the at least the portion of the side that is transparent or translucent, is angled with respect to a plane defined by the face at an angle greater than 90 degrees.

83. A cover unit as claimed in claim 82 wherein the angle is greater than 90 degrees and less than 180 degrees.

84. A cover unit as claimed in claim 83 wherein the angle is greater than 95 degrees and less than 170 degrees.

85. A cover unit as claimed in claim 84 wherein the angle is greater than 100 degrees and less than 140 degrees.

F. TRANSLUCENT/TRANSPARENT SWITCH ROCKER

86. A user interface for connection to an operational part of a switch assembly, the user interface comprising at least a portion that is translucent or transparent.

87. A user interface as claimed in claim 86 comprising a switch face and a switch side extending between the switch face and a switch periphery wherein the at least a portion that is translucent or transparent is located on the switch side.

i/So

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Figure 1A Figure 1B

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