GB2592190A

GB2592190A - Actuation mechanism for a controller of a wireless electric switch system

Info

Publication number: GB2592190A
Application number: GB2001919.6A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Cox Stephen
Original assignee: Wireless Navitas Ltd
Current assignee: Wireless Navitas Ltd
Priority date: 2020-02-12
Filing date: 2020-02-12
Publication date: 2021-08-25
Anticipated expiration: 2040-02-12
Also published as: GB2592190B; WO2021160611A1; EP4104196A1; GB202001919D0

Abstract

An actuation mechanism for a wireless electric switch controller comprises an actuator (rocker) 206,208 rotatable about a first axis 326,346 between first/second positions and a lever 304 rotatable about a second axis 373 between first and second lever ends, wherein a first surface of the lever faces the actuator. The actuator comprises a cam 320 which engages and moves over the first surface when the actuator is moved between first/second positions, which causes the lever to rotate about the second axis. The actuator also includes first and second protrusions 322,324, and an actuator housing 302 comprises first and second arms (351,352, figure 5). When the actuator is moved between first/second positions, the respective protrusions engage with respective arms, causing them to bend and complete a PCB circuit. Also provided is a plurality of actuators coupled to a common power source 306 by a coupling mechanism 380,382, and a signal transmitter 310. Each actuator is independently controllable to cause the coupling mechanism to activate the common power source to provide power to the transmitter. The lever may comprise a rib 378 separating two recesses 374,376, wherein when moved between first/second positions the actuator moves over the rib to transition between recesses.

Description

ACTUATION MECHANISM FOR A CONTROLLER OF A WIRELESS ELECTRIC SWITCH SYSTEM

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to actuation mechanisms for use in controllers of electric switch systems, including but not limited wireless light switch systems.

BACKGROUND

1() Many switches for controlling electrical fixtures and appliances may be switched between two states, namely a state in which the fixture or appliance is "on", and a state in which the fixture or appliance is "off". The mechanism actuating the transition between these two states is typically either an "alternate action" or "momentary" type mechanism. Alternate action switches cycle between "on" (or open) and "off' (or closed) each time they are actuated.

Momentary switches on the other hand typically must be continuously manipulated for operation and comprise restoring biases which, as soon as the switch is released, cause the switch contacts to resume their idle position.

Switches, including light switches, may implement different types of actuator. A toggle (or tumbler) switch is a class of electrical switches that are manually actuated by an actuator in the form of, for example, a mechanical lever, a handle, or a rocking mechanism (i.e. a rocker). Typically, the actuator of a toggle-type switch latches in respective different positions for the "on" and "off" states. Biased switches typically contain mechanisms that return the actuator into its original position when released by an operator.

In the United Kingdom, light switches are commonly alternate action toggle switches having a rocker for switch actuation. In some countries, light switches that are alternate action biased switches having a rocker for switch actuation tend to be more common. -2 -

Wireless switches for wirelessly controlling electrical fixtures and appliances are known. For example, wireless switches may be used to wirelessly control light fixtures, e.g. in both residential and commercial buildings. Many wireless light switch systems employ a wireless control device that sends radiofrequency (RE) commands to a receiver controlling a light fixture.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect, the present invention provides an actuation mechanism for a controller of a wireless electric switch system, the actuation mechanism comprising: an actuator configured to rotate about a first axis between a first position and a second position; and a lever configured to rotate about a second axis, the lever comprising a first lever end and a second lever end opposite to the first lever end, the second axis located between the first lever and the second lever end; wherein the actuator and the lever are arranged such that a first surface of the lever faces the actuator, the first surface of the lever being a surface between the first lever end and the second axis; the actuator comprises a cam extending towards the lever and engaging the lever at the first surface; and the actuator and the lever are configured such that rotation of the actuator between the first position and the second position causes the cam to move over the first surface between a first location on the first surface and a second location on the first surface and to exert a force on the first surface, thus causing the lever to rotate about the second axis.

The actuator may be a bi-stable actuator.

The lever may comprise a rib on the first surface. The rib may extend 25 towards the actuator. The actuator and the lever may be configured such that the rotation of the actuator between the first position and the second position causes the cam to move over the rib.

The lever may comprise a first recess and a second recess, the first and second recess being recesses in the first surface. The actuator and the lever may be configured such that the rotation of the actuator between the first -3 -position and the second position causes the cam to move between being located in the first recess and being located in the second recess.

The rib may be located between the first recess and the second recess.

The actuation mechanism may further comprise biasing means configured to force the first surface of the lever against the cam.

The biasing means may be a spring coupled to a second surface of the lever, the second surface of the lever being a surface between the second lever end and the second axis.

The lever may comprise a slot located at or proximate to the second end.

The actuation mechanism may further comprise an actuator housing.

The actuator may be coupled to the actuator housing such that the actuator is rotatable, relative to the actuator housing, about the first axis between the first position and the second position. The actuator may comprise a first actuator end and a second actuator end opposite to the first actuator end, the first axis is located between the first actuator end and the second actuator end. The actuator may comprise a first protrusion located between the first actuator end and the first axis, and a second protrusion located between the second actuator end and the first axis. The actuator housing may comprise a first arm and a second arm. The actuator and the actuator housing may be configured such that movement of the actuator into the first position causes the first protrusion to engage with and exert a force on the first arm, thereby causing movement of the first arm. The actuator and the actuator housing may be configured such that movement of the actuator into the second position causes the second protrusion to engage with and exert a force on the second arm, thereby causing movement of the second arm.

The actuation mechanism may further comprise at least one further actuator. Each further actuator may be configured to rotate about a respective axis between respective first and second positions. Each further actuator may comprise a respective further cam extending towards the lever and engaging the lever at the first surface. Each further actuator and the lever may be configured such that rotating that further actuator between its first position and -4 -its second position causes the further cam of that further actuator to move over the first surface between a respective further first location on the first surface and a further second location on the first surface and to exert a force on the first surface, thus causing the lever to rotate about the second axis. Each further actuator may be coupled to the actuator housing such that that further actuator is rotatable, relative to the actuator housing, about its axis between its first position and its second position. Each further actuator may comprise a respective first further actuator end and a second further actuator end opposite to the first further actuator end, the axis of that further actuator being located to between the first further actuator end and the second further actuator end of that further actuator. Each further actuator may comprise a first further protrusion located between the first further actuator end and the axis of that further actuator, and a second further protrusion located between the second further actuator end and the axis of that further actuator. The actuator housing may comprise, for each further actuator, a respective further first arm and a further second arm. The further actuators and the actuator housing may be configured such that, for each further actuator, movement of that further actuator into its first position causes the first further protrusion of that further actuator to engage with and exert a force on the further first arm associated with that further actuator, thereby causing movement of that further first arm. The further actuators and the actuator housing may be configured such that, for each further actuator, movement of that further actuator into its second position causes the second further protrusion of that further actuator to engage with and exert a force on the further second arm associated with that further actuator, thereby causing movement of that further second arm. Each arm may comprise a respective electrically conductive portion located at or proximate to a distal end of that arm.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a controller for a wireless electric switch system. The controller comprises: an actuation mechanism according to any preceding aspect; a power source; and a transmitter; wherein the actuation mechanism, the power source, and the transmitter are configured such that activation of the power source by operation -5 -of the actuation mechanism causes the power source to provide electrical power to the transmitter; and the transmitter is configured to transmit a signal in response to receiving electrical power from the power source.

The controller may be a wireless light switch for controlling a light fixture.

The transmitter may be a radiofrequency transmitter configured to transmit a radiofrequency signal.

The power source may be an energy harvesting device configured to convert mechanical energy imparted to the energy harvesting device by the lever of the actuation mechanism into the electrical power.

to Each arm of the actuator housing may comprise a respective electrically conductive portion. The actuation mechanism, the power source, and the transmitter are configured such that, for each arm, movement of that arm by the actuator causes the electrically conductive portion of that arm to move so as to close a respective different electrical circuit. The transmitter may be connected to each of the respective different electrical circuits. The transmitter may be configured to transmit a different signal depending on which of the different electrical circuits is closed.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides an assembly for use in a controller of a wireless electric switch system, the assembly comprising: an actuator; and an actuator housing; the actuator is coupled to the actuator housing such that the actuator is rotatable, relative to the actuator housing, about a first axis between a first position and a second position; the actuator comprises a first actuator end and a second actuator end opposite to the first actuator end, the first axis located between the first actuator end and the second actuator end; the actuator comprises: a first protrusion located between the first actuator end and the first axis; and a second protrusion located between the second actuator end and the first axis; the actuator housing comprises a first arm and a second arm; and the actuator and the actuator housing are configured such that movement of the actuator into the first position causes the first protrusion to engage with and exert a force on the first arm, thereby causing movement of the first arm; and the actuator and the actuator -6 -housing are configured such that movement of the actuator into the second position causes the second protrusion to engage with and exert a force on the second arm, thereby causing movement of the second arm.

The switch actuator assembly may further comprise at least one further actuator. Each further actuator may be coupled to the actuator housing such that that further actuator is rotatable, relative to the actuator housing, about its axis between its first position and its second position. Each further actuator may comprise a respective first further actuator end and a second further actuator end opposite to the first further actuator end, the axis of that further actuator being located between the first further actuator end and the second further actuator end of that further actuator. Each further actuator may comprise a first further protrusion located between the first further actuator end and the axis of that further actuator, and a second further protrusion located between the second further actuator end and the axis of that further actuator. The actuator housing may comprise, for each further actuator, a respective further first arm and a further second arm. The further actuators and the actuator housing may be configured such that, for each further actuator, movement of that further actuator into its first position causes the first further protrusion of that further actuator to engage with and exert a force on the further first arm associated with that further actuator, thereby causing movement of that further first arm. The further actuators and the actuator housing may be configured such that, for each further actuator, movement of that further actuator into its second position causes the second further protrusion of that further actuator to engage with and exert a force on the further second arm associated with that further actuator, thereby causing movement of that further second arm.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a system comprising: an assembly according to any preceding aspect; a power source; and a transmitter; wherein the switch actuator assembly, the power source, and the transmitter are configured such that activation of the power source by operation of the switch actuator assembly causes the power source to provide electrical power to the transmitter; and the transmitter is configured to transmit a signal in response to receiving electrical power from the power source. -7 -

Each arm of the actuator housing may comprise a respective electrically conductive portion. The switch actuator assembly, the power source, and the transmitter may be configured such that, for each arm, movement of that arm by the actuator causes the electrically conductive portion of that arm to move so as to close a respective different electrical circuit. The transmitter may be configured to transmit a different signal depending on which of the different electrical circuits is closed.

In a further aspect, the present invention provides a controller for a wireless electric switch system, the controller comprising: a plurality of actuators; a common power source; a coupling mechanism coupling the plurality of actuators to the common power source; and a transmitter; wherein the plurality of actuators, the coupling mechanism, the common power source, and the transmitter are configured such each actuator is independently controllable to cause the coupling mechanism to activate the common power source so as to cause the common power source to provide electrical power to the transmitter; and the transmitter is configured to transmit a signal in response to receiving electrical power from the power source.

The common power source may be an energy harvesting device configured to convert mechanical energy imparted to the energy harvesting device by the coupling mechanism into the electrical power.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is a schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a network topology for a wireless light switch system; Figure 2 is a schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a front-perspective view of a dual-actuator controller of the wireless light switch system, Figure 3 is a schematic illustration (not to scale) showing an exploded view of the controller; Figures 4A to 41 are schematic illustrations (not to scale) showing various views of an actuator of the controller; -8 -Figure 5 is a schematic illustration (not to scale) showing further details of an actuator housing of the controller; Figure 6 is a schematic illustration (not to scale) showing further details of various components of the controller; Figure 7 is a schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a side view cross section of the controller, with an actuator of the controller in a first position; Figure 8 is a schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a side view cross section of the controller, with an actuator of the controller in an to intermediate position; Figure 9 is schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a side view cross section of the controller, with an actuator of the controller in a second position; Figure 10 is schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a front view cross section of the controller, with an actuator of the controller in the first position; Figure 11 is schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a front view cross section of the controller, with an actuator of the controller in the intermediate position; Figure 12 is schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a front view cross section of the controller, with an actuator of the controller in the second position; and Figure 13 is a schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a single-actuator controller.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It will be appreciated that relative terms such as horizontal and vertical, top and bottom, above and below, front and back, and so on, are used below merely for ease of reference to the Figures, and these terms are not limiting as such, and any two differing directions or positions and so on may be -g -implemented rather than truly horizontal and vertical, top and bottom, and so on.

Figure 1 is a schematic illustration (not to scale) showing an example network topology for a wireless light switch system 100 for use in a building.

The system comprises a controller 102, a receiver 104, and a light fixture 106. The controller 102 is controlled by a human user 108.

The controller 102 is a wireless control device configured to send radiofrequency (RF) commands (via wireless a communications link 110, which may for example be a BluetoothTM link) to the receiver 104. The controller 102 maybe referred to, for example, as a wireless control device, a remote-control device, a remote switch device, or a wireless light switch.

An embodiment of the controller 102 is described in more detail later below with reference to Figures 2-9.

The receiver 104 is configured to receive the RF commands and control the light fixture 106 based on those received commands. In particular, in this example, the receiver 104 is configured to control a switch, to switch the light fixture 106 on/off. The receiver 104 may, for example, be referred to as a load controller.

The light fixture 106 may be a conventional light fixture comprising one or more light sources, for example light bulbs.

Figure 2 is a schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a front-perspective view of an embodiment of the controller 102.

In this embodiment, the controller 102 comprises a base 202, a cover 204, and two actuators, hereinafter referred to as a first actuator 206 and a 25 second actuator 208.

The base 202 defines a lower surface of the controller 102. The cover 204 defines an upper surface of the controller 102. The base 202 and the cover 204 are attached together, for example the cover 204 clips over the base 202, to define a volume therebetween. The actuators 206, 208 are partially located within the volume defined by the base 202 and the cover 204 The actuators 206, 208 extend from an upper surface of the cover 204 through respective apertures, namely a first aperture 210 and a second aperture 212, thereby allowing for manipulation of the actuators 206, 208 by the user 108.

Figure 3 is schematic illustration (not to scale) showing an exploded view of the controller 102.

In addition to the base 202, the cover 204, and the actuators 206, 208, the controller 102 further comprises, an actuator housing 302, a lever 304, a spring 305, a converter device 306, a printed circuit board (PCB) 308, and a transmitter 310.

In this embodiment, the cover 204 is made of Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). Also, the actuators 206, 208 are made of ABS. Also, the actuator housing 302 is made of polypropylene (PP). Also, the lever 304 is made of ABS. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that different materials may be used to form one or more of the components of the controller 102 instead of or in addition to those previously indicated.

When the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the actuator housing 302, the lever 304, the spring 305, the converter device 306, the PCB 308, and the transmitter 310 are wholly located within the volume defined by the base 202 and the cover 204.

The first actuator 206 comprises a first end 312, a second end 314 opposite to the first end 312, an upper surface 316, and a lower surface 318 opposite to the upper surface 316. The upper surface 316 and the lower surface 318 extend between the ends 312, 314 of the first actuator 206.

The first actuator 206 further comprises a first cam 320 extending from a central portion of the lower surface 318 of the first actuator 206.

The first actuator 206 further comprises a plurality of protrusions, namely a first protrusion 322 and a second protrusion 324. The first protrusion 322 extends from the lower surface 318 of the first actuator 206 at or proximate to the first end 312 of the first actuator 206. The second protrusion 324 extends from the lower surface 318 of the first actuator 206 at or proximate to the second end 314 of the first actuator 206.

When the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the first actuator 206 fits through the first aperture 210 of the cover 204 such that the upper surface 316 is exposed. Also, when the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the first actuator 206 is coupled to the actuator housing 302 such that the first actuator 206 is able to rotate relative to the actuator housing 302 about a first actuator axis 326. Also, when the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the first cam 320 engages with the lever 304, as described in more detail later below.

to Figures 4A to 41 are schematic illustrations (not to scale) showing further views of the first actuator 206. Specifically, Figure 4A shows a bottom perspective view of the first actuator 206; Figure 4B shows a bottom view of the first actuator 206; Figure 4C shows a further bottom perspective view of the first actuator 206; Figure 4D shows a first end view of the first actuator 206; Figure 4E shows a side view of the first actuator 206; Figure 4F shows a second end view of the first actuator 206; Figure 4G shows a top perspective view of the first actuator 206; Figure 4H shows a top view of the first actuator 206; and Figure 41 shows a further top perspective view of the first actuator 206.

In this embodiment, the first actuator 206 further comprises a first further protrusion 401 and a second further protrusion 402. The first further protrusion 401 extends from the lower surface 318 of the first actuator 206 at or proximate to the first end 312. The first further protrusion 401 is positioned at a middle portion of the first end 312, e.g. substantially equidistant from the two sides of the first actuator 206. The second further protrusion 402 extends from the lower surface 318 of the first actuator 206 at or proximate to the second end 314. The second further protrusion 402 is positioned at a middle portion of the second end 314, e.g. substantially equidistant from the two sides of the first actuator 206.

Returning to the description of Figure 3, the second actuator 208 comprises a first end 332, a second end 334 opposite to the first end 332, an upper surface 336, and a lower surface 338 opposite to the upper surface 336.

-12 -The second actuator 208 may be substantially the same (i.e. the same size and shape) as the first actuator 206. The upper surface 336 and the lower surface 338 extend between the ends 332, 334 of the second actuator 208.

The second actuator 208 further comprises a second cam 340 extending 5 from a central portion of the lower surface 338 of the second actuator 208.

The second actuator 208 further comprises a plurality of protrusions, namely a third protrusion 342 and a fourth protrusion 344. The third protrusion 342 extends from the lower surface 338 of the second actuator 208 at or proximate to the first end 332 of the second actuator 208. The fourth protrusion 344 extends from the lower surface 338 of the second actuator 208 at or proximate to the second end 334 of the second actuator 208.

When the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the second actuator 208 fits through the second aperture 212 of the cover 204 such that the upper surface 336 is exposed. Also, when the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the second actuator 208 is coupled to the actuator housing 302 such that the second actuator 208 is able to rotate relative to the actuator housing 302 about a second actuator axis 346. Also, when the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the second cam 340 engages with the lever 304, as described in more detail later below. When the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the first actuator axis 326 is substantially aligned with the second actuator axis 346.

In this embodiment, the second actuator 208 comprises further protrusions (not shown in Figure 3) corresponding to the first and second further protrusions 401, 402 of the first actuator 206.

The actuator housing 302 will now be described in more detail with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a bottom perspective view of the actuator housing 302.

In this embodiment, the actuator housing 302 comprises a central portion 350 to which the actuators 206, 208 are rotatably coupled, and four flexible arm members (namely a first arm 351, a second arm 352, a third arm 353, and a fourth arm 354) extending from the central portion 350. The central portion 350 and the arms 351-354 may be integrally formed.

-13 -In this embodiment, the actuator housing 302, including the central portion 350 and the arms 351-354 are made of PP. This advantageously tends to allow for the arms 351-354 to bend or flex in use, as described in more detail later below.

In this embodiment, the first arm 351 extends from a first side edge of the central portion 350 at or proximate to a first end of the central portion 350. The first arm 351 is substantially perpendicular to the first side edge of the central portion 350. In this embodiment, the first arm 351 comprises a first electrically conductive element 361 (e.g. a pad formed from an electrically conductive material). The first electrically conductive element 361 is located on a lower surface of the first arm 351 at or proximate to a distal end of the first arm 351.

In this embodiment, the second arm 352 extends from the first side edge of the central portion 350 at or proximate to a second end of the central portion 350, the second end of the central portion 350 being opposite to the first end of the central portion 350. The second arm 352 is substantially perpendicular to the first side edge of the central portion 350. In this embodiment, the second arm comprises a second electrically conductive element 362 (e.g. a pad formed from an electrically conductive material). The second electrically conductive element 362 is located on a lower surface of the second arm 352 at or proximate to a distal end of the second arm 352.

In this embodiment, the third arm 353 extends from a second side edge of the central portion 350 (the second side edge of the central portion 350 being opposite to the first side edge of the central portion 350) at or proximate to the first end of the central portion 350. The third arm 353 is substantially perpendicular to the second side edge of the central portion 350. In this embodiment, the third arm comprises a third electrically conductive element 363 (e.g. a pad formed from an electrically conductive material). The third electrically conductive element 363 is located on a lower surface of the third arm 353 at or proximate to a distal end of the third arm 353.

In this embodiment, the fourth arm 354 extends from the second side edge of the central portion 350 at or proximate to the second end of the central -14 -portion 350. The fourth arm 354 is substantially perpendicular to the second side edge of the central portion 350. In this embodiment, the fourth arm comprises a fourth electrically conductive element 364 (e.g. a pad formed from an electrically conductive material). The fourth electrically conductive element 364 is located on a lower surface of the fourth arm 354 at or proximate to a distal end of the fourth arm 354.

In this embodiment, when the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the base portion 202, the central portion 350 of the actuator housing 302, and the cover 204, have fixed positions relative to one another.

The lever 304, the spring 305, the converter device 306, the PCB 308, and the transmitter 310 will now be described in more detail with reference to Figures 3 and 6. Figure 6 is a schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a plan view of a sub-assembly comprising the base portion 202, the lever 304, the converter 306, the PCB 308, and the transmitter 310.

In this embodiment, the lever 304 comprises a first lever end 370 and a second lever end 372 opposite to the first lever end 370.

In this embodiment, when the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the lever 304 is coupled to the base portion 202 so that the lever 304 is rotatable relative to the base portion 202 about a lever axis 373. The lever axis 373 is located between the first lever end 370 and the second lever end 372.

The lever 304 comprises a first recess 374 and a second recess 376 located on the upper surface of the lever 340 at or proximate to the first lever end 370. The lever 304 further comprises a rib 378 (or ridge, protrusion, raised portion, etc.) located on the upper surface of the lever 304, the rib 378 being disposed between the first recess 374 and the second recess 376. More specially, the first recess 374 is located on the upper surface of the lever 304 between the first lever end 370 and the rib 378; the rib 378 is located on the upper surface of the lever 340 between the first recess 374 and the second recess 376; the second recess 376 is located on the upper surface of the lever 340 between the rib 378 and the lever axis 373.

-15 -The first recess 374 and the second recess 376 may be considered to be grooves in the upper surface of the lever 340. The recesses 374, 376 (or grooves) are arranged transversely on the upper surface of the lever 340.

In this embodiment, the first recess 374 and the second recess 376 are each partitioned by a plurality of walls 379 into a plurality of recess sections. In particular, in this embodiment, each recess 374, 376 is divided into four recess sections by the walls 379.

The lever 340 further comprises a slot 380 located at or proximate to the second lever end 372. The slot 380 is configured to receive a converter element 382 of the converter device 306, thereby to couple the lever 304 to the converter device 306.

In this embodiment, when the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the lever 304 is coupled to the base portion 202. The lever 304 is arranged such that the upper surface of the lever 304 proximate to the first lever end 370 faces (i.e. is opposite) the lower surfaces of the actuators 206, 208. In particular, in this embodiment, the rib 378 extends towards the actuators 206, 208. Also, the cams 320, 340, are engaged with the upper surface of the lever, and are located in one of the recesses 374, 376. Also, when the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the converter element 382 of the converter device 306 is located within the slot 380 such that the converter element 382 is coupled to the second lever end 372.

In this embodiment, the spring 305 is a coil spring. In this embodiment, when the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the spring 305 is coupled between the lower surface of the cover 204 and the upper surface of the lever 304 at or proximate to the second lever end 372. The spring 305 is configured to exert a pushing force onto the second lever end 372, thereby to force the second lever end 372 downwards towards the base 202 (and consequently forcing the first lever end 370 upwards against the cams 320, 340 of the actuators 206, 208).

In this embodiment, the converter device 306 is a conventional device, e.g. a transducer, configured to convert mechanical energy into electrical -16 -energy. The converter device 306 may be an energy harvesting device, for example an energy harvesting device that implements EnOcean technology. Examples of such converter devices 306 include, but are not limited to, electromagnetic energy converters such as that described in EP2264875A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. The converter device 306 comprises a converter element 382. The converter element 382 is configured to be physically moved or actuated, and the converter device 306 is configured to convert this movement of the converter element 382 into electrical energy.

In this embodiment, when the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the converter device 306 is fixed to the upper, i.e. inside, surface of the base 202. Also, the converter element 382 is coupled to the second lever end 372 by being received in the slot 380, thereby allowing for actuation of the converter element 382 (and thus generation of electrical energy by the converter device 306) by the movement of the lever 340.

In this embodiment, when the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the PCB 308 is fixed to the upper, i.e. inside, surface of the base 202.

In this embodiment, the PCB 308 provides an electric circuit to electrically connect the converter device 306 and the transmitter 310 such that, in use, electric power can be supplied to the transmitter 310 from the converter device 306.

In addition, the PCB 308 defines four additional electrical circuits, namely a first circuit 391, a second circuit 392, a third circuit 393, and a fourth circuit 394. Each electrical circuit 391-394 electrically connects the transmitter 310 to a respective open gap (or, e.g., meander pad). Thus, the first circuit 391 comprises a first gap 396, a second circuit 392 comprises a second gap 397, a third circuit 393 comprises a third gap 398, and a fourth circuit 394 comprises a fourth gap 399. The gaps 396-399 are openings in the respective circuits 391394. In this embodiment, when the controller 102 is in its assembled state, the PCB 308 is arranged such that each gap 369-399 is located opposite to a respective electrically conductive element 361-364. In other words, the first gap 396 is positioned facing the first electrically conductive element 361 on the first arm 351 such that the first arm 351 may be moved so as to cause the first electrically conductive element 361 to close the first gap 396, thus closing/completing the first circuit 391 and thereby allowing electric power to flow through the first circuit 391. Similarly, the second gap 397 is positioned facing the second electrically conductive element 362 on the second arm 352 such that the second arm 352 may be moved so as to cause the second electrically conductive element 362 to close the second gap 397, thus closing/completing the second circuit 392 and thereby allowing electric power to flow through the second circuit 392. Similarly, the third gap 398 is positioned facing the third electrically conductive element 363 on the third arm 353 such that the third arm 353 may be moved so as to cause the third electrically conductive element 363 to close the third gap 398, thus closing/completing the third circuit 393 and thereby allowing electric power to flow through the third circuit 393. Similarly, the fourth gap 399 is positioned facing the fourth electrically conductive element 364 on the fourth arm 354 such that the fourth arm 354 may be moved so as to cause the fourth electrically conductive element 364 to close the fourth gap 399, thus closing/completing the fourth circuit 394 and thereby allowing electric power to flow through the fourth circuit 394.

In this embodiment, the transmitter 310 is a radio transmitter. The transmitter 310 is configured to transmit RF signals. In operation, the transmitter 310 transmits RF commands, for use by the receiver 104 via link 110, in response to receiving electrical power from the converter device 306 via the PCB 308. In this embodiment, the transmitter 310 is configured to transmit a different RF command depending on which of the circuits 391-394 is closed. By way of example, the transmitter 310 may be configured to: output a first command (e.g. an ON command for a first light source of the light fixture 106) in response to the first circuit 391 being closed; output a second command (e.g. an OFF command for the first light source) in response to the second circuit 392 being closed; output a third command (e.g. an ON command for a second light source of the light fixture 106) in response to the third circuit 393 being closed; -18 -and output a fourth command (e.g. an OFF command for the second light source) in response to the fourth circuit 394 being closed.

In this embodiment, the transmitter 310 determines which of the circuits 391-394 is closed by testing which circuit 391-394 electricity can flow through (e.g. by diverting a portion of the electric power received from the converter device 306 to the circuits 391-394). In other embodiments, the transmitter may receive electric power from the converter device 306 via the circuits (when closed) and may be configured to determine via which of those circuits 391-394 electric power was received.

In this embodiment, the receiver 104 is configured to receive the RF commands from the transmitter 310 and to control the light fixture 106 accordingly.

What will now be described with reference to Figures 7 to 9 is manipulation by the user 108 of the first actuator 206 so as to cause the converter device 306 to generate electrical power. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the second actuator 208 is operable in a corresponding fashion so as to cause the converter device 306 to generate electrical power.

Figure 7 is schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a side view cross section of the controller 102.

In Figure 7, the first actuator 206 is in its first position. When the first actuator 206 is in its first position, the first end 312 of the first actuator 206 extends above the upper surface of the cover 204, while the second end 314 of the first actuator 206 is substantially flush with the upper surface of the cover 204. Also, when the first actuator 206 is in its first position, the first cam 320 is located in the first recess 374 and in contact with the upper surface of the lever 304 proximate to the first lever end 370.

In this embodiment, the user 108 operates the controller 102 by pressing downwards onto the first end 312 of the first actuator 206. This causes the first actuator 206 to be moved from its first position to its intermediate position.

-19 -Figure 8 is schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a side view cross section of the controller 102 with the first actuator 206 in its intermediate position. In this embodiment, the downwards force on the first end 312 of the first actuator 206 causes the first actuator 206 to rotate about the first actuator axis 326. The first end 312 of the first actuator 206 is moved downwards and the second end 314 of the first actuator 206 is moved upwards. This rotation of the first actuator 206 about the first actuator axis 326 moves the first cam 320 over the upper surface of the lever 304, away from the first lever end 312 and towards the second lever end 314. In particular, the first cam 320 is moved out of the first recess 374 and over the rib 378. In its intermediate position, as shown in Figure 8, the first cam 320 is in contact with the upper surface of the rib 378.

By virtue of this rotation of the first actuator 206 and movement of the cam 320, the first cam 320 applies a downwards force against the upper surface of the lever 304 (between the first lever end 370 and the lever axis 373).

This causes the lever 304 to rotate about the lever axis 373. The first lever end 370 is moved downwards and the second lever end 372 (comprising the slot 380) is moved upwards. As such, the converter element 382 of the converter device 306, which is held in the slot 380, is moved upwards (i.e. away from the base 202 towards the cover 204).

In this embodiment, the user 108 continues to press downwards onto the first end 312 of the first actuator 206. This causes the first actuator 206 to be moved from its intermediate position to its second position.

Figure 9 is schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a side view cross section of the controller 102 with the first actuator 206 in its second position. In this embodiment, the downwards force on the first end 312 of the first actuator 206 causes the first actuator 206 to further rotate about the first actuator axis 326. This rotation of the first actuator 206 about the first actuator axis 326 moves the first cam 320 further over the upper surface of the lever 304, away from the first lever end 312 and towards the second lever end 314. In particular, the first cam 320 moves from the rib 378 and into the second recess 376.

-20 -In this embodiment, the cam 320 remains in contact with the upper surface of the lever 304 during its movement between the first and second positions, at least in part due to the biasing force applied to the lever 304 by the spring 305. The cam 320 may be considered to slide over the upper surface of the lever 304.

In this embodiment, the spring 305 exerts a downwards force against the second lever end 372, i.e. the action of the spring 305 forces the first lever end 370 upwards against the first cam 320. The spring 305 acts to oppose rotation of the lever 304 by the first actuator 206. In this embodiment, as the first actuator 206 is moved from its intermediate position to its second position, and the first cam 320 is moved from the rib 378 into the second recess 376, the lever 304 is rotated about the lever axis 373 by the spring. In particular, the spring 350 causes the first lever end 370 to move upwards against the first cam 320 so that the first cam 320 is located in the second recess 376. Also, the spring 305 causes the second lever end 372 (comprising the slot 380) to be moved downwards. As such, the converter element 382 of the converter device 306, which is held in the slot 380, is moved downwards (i.e. towards the base 202 and away from the cover 204).

In this embodiment, the above-described actuation of the converter device 306 (i.e. the upwards and/or subsequent downwards movement of the converter element 382 caused by moving of the first actuator from its first position to its second position) results in generation of electrical power by the converter device 306. This electrical power is supplied from the converter device 306 to the transmitter 310 via the PCB 308.

The first actuator can be moved from its second position back to its first position by the user pressing down on the second end 314. This would cause the first cam 320 to be moved from the second recess 376 back into the first recess 374, and cause the lever 304 to actuate the converter device 306, in a similar manner to that described above.

What will now be described with reference to Figures 10 to 12 is the provision of electrical power from the converter device 306 to the transmitter 310 via the PCB 308. This is described with reference to the manipulation by the user 108 of the first actuator 206. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the second actuator 208 is operable in an analogous manner.

Figure 10 is schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a front view cross section of the controller 102. The cross section shown is taken transversely across the controller 102 through the first and third arms 351, 353 In Figure 10, the first actuator 206 is in its first position, as described in more detail above with respect to Figure 7. The first end 312 of the first actuator 206 extends above the upper surface of the cover 204, while the second end 314 of the first actuator 206 is substantially flush with the upper surface of the cover 204. Also, when the first actuator 206 is in its first position, the first further protrusion 401 (located on the lower surface of the first actuator 206 at or proximate to the first end 332) is located above and spaced apart from the first arm 351.

Figure 11 is schematic illustration (not to scale) showing the front view cross section of the controller 102 with the first actuator 206 in its intermediate position, as described in more detail above with respect to Figure 8. In this embodiment, the downwards force on the first end 312 of the first actuator 206 causes the first actuator 206 to rotate about the first actuator axis 326. The first end 312 of the first actuator 206 is moved downwards and the second end 314 of the first actuator 206 is moved upwards. Thus, the first further protrusion 401 is moved downwards towards to first arm 351.

Figure 12 is schematic illustration (not to scale) showing the front view cross section of the controller 102 with the first actuator 206 in its second position, as described in more detail above with respect to Figure 9. In this -22 -embodiment, the downwards force on the first end 312 of the first actuator 206 causes the first actuator 206 to further rotate about the first actuator axis 326. This rotation of the first actuator 206 about the first actuator axis 326 moves the first further protrusion 401 into contact with the first arm 351, and to exert a downwards force onto the first arm 351. In this way, the first arm 351 is caused to bend such that the distal end of the first arm 351 moves downwards, and the first electrically conductive element 361 is brought into contact with the upper surface of the PCB 308. In particular, the first arm 351 is moved such that the first electrically conductive element 361 closes the first gap 396 thereby to close or complete the first circuit 391.

In this embodiment, the arms of the actuator housing may be moved by the first/second further protrusions of an actuator pushing against the arms (e.g. the first and second arms 351, 352 may be moved by the first and second further protrusions 401, 402 of the first actuator 206 pushing them downwards, respectively). In other embodiments, (for example, in an embodiment in which the controller 102 is a single-gang controller), the arms of the actuator housing may be moved by a different part of an actuator pushing against them, for example the protrusions 322, 324, 342, 344. The transmitter 310 may detect the closing of the first circuit 391 in any appropriate way, e.g. by detecting current flowing through the first circuit 391 (the current being a portion of that received from the converter device 306). The transmitter 310 may transmit a first command in response to receiving electric power from the converter device 306 and detecting that the first circuit 391 is closed.

Thus, a wireless controller for a wireless switch system is provided.

Advantageously, the above described system provides for energy-self-sufficient electromechanical switching. As such, requirements for batteries or mains electricity for the controller tends to be eliminated or at least reduced.

The above described system tends to reduce the use of materials, which may include but is not limited to copper or other electrically conductive wiring, rare-earth metals, and plastic conduits/housing, in lighting systems and the like.

-23 -Advantageously, the above described controller allows for the use of only a single converter device (e.g. energy harvesting device) for use with multiple actuators. For example, a single energy harvester can be coupled to multiple actuators in a multi-gang (i.e. multi-actuator) controller. Thus, a need for multiple converter devices (e.g. a respective converter device for each actuator) tends to be eliminated.

The above described controller tends to provide that the actuator is bistable. The controller may be considered to be a latching switched that may be latched or is stable in two different positions. In other words, the actuator advantageously tends to be stable in each of its first and second positions. This tends to result from the actuator cam being securely located in a respective lever recess in each of its first and second positions. This provides that the actuator is held in place by the lever and prevented or opposed from moving until a force sufficient to overcome the retaining force of the lever is applied to the actuator by the user. Thus, the controller tends to allow for implementation of an alternate action toggle switch, e.g. of the type commonly used in the United Kingdom to control light fixtures in buildings.

Advantageously, the above described system tends not to require that both the wireless control and the corresponding load be connected to the same circuit. This tends to be in contrast to a traditional wired light switch and load. As such, some of the constraints on the relative positioning of the switch/controller and the load tends to be relaxed. Advantageously, the above described controller may be used as a handheld remote-control device, avoiding the need to mount the wireless controller on a wall. Nevertheless, the above-described controller may be implemented as a fixed-position (e.g. wall-mounted) switch that is similar in appearance and effect to traditional switches used with wired fixtures.

In the above embodiments, the controller is a two-gang, i.e. two-actuator, controller. However, in other embodiments, the controller comprises a different number of actuators. For example, in some embodiments, the controller comprises only a single actuator. Figure 13 is a schematic illustration (not to scale) showing a further embodiment of the controller 102, which comprises -24 -only a single actuator (for convenience, labelled in Figure 13 using the reference numeral 206 of the first actuator). In other embodiments, the controller comprises three or more (e.g. 3 or 4) actuators.

The lever may be adapted for use with multiple actuators, e.g. at least one, two, three, or four actuators. This may be achieved by adapting the first lever end to receive multiple actuators/cams. In this way, the lever may be configured to couple multiple actuators to a common power source (e.g. a common converter device). By way of example, the first recess 374 and the second recess 376 may be each partitioned by a plurality of walls 379 into four recess sections by the walls 379. Each recess section pair may receive the cam of a respective different actuator (or indeed, may be unused so that no cam is received). In this way, the lever 304 may be coupled to one, two, three, or four actuators to provide for a single-gang, double-gang, triple-gang, or quadruple-gang controller, respectively. In other embodiments, the recesses of the lever are each partitioned into a different number of recess sections (e.g. more than four or less than four) by a different number of walls.

In the above embodiments, the various components of the system comprise or are formed of the materials as indicated above. However, in other embodiments, one or more of the components of the system are formed of or comprise a different material to that indicated above, instead of or in addition to that material indicated above.

In the above embodiments, the controller comprises a converter device, specifically a transducer configured to convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. However, in other embodiments, the controller comprises a different power source instead of or in addition to the converter device. Examples of appropriate power sources include, by are not limited to, a battery, mains electricity, and a photovoltaic device.

In the above embodiments, the lever comprises a slot at or proximate to its second lever end. However, in other embodiments, the second lever end is coupled to the power source in a different may, other than by a slot that receives a part of the power source.

-25 -In the above embodiments, the controller is a controller of a wireless light switch system for use in a building. However, in other embodiments, the controller is configured to control a different type of system other than a light switch system. The controller may be used to controller any electrical switch system, example of which include, but are not limited to, electronic devices, electric fans, doors, blinds, curtains, heating systems (which may include electric heaters such as electric radiators), etc.

Claims

-26 -CLAIMS1. An actuation mechanism for a controller of a wireless electric switch system, the actuation mechanism comprising: an actuator configured to rotate about a first axis between a first position and a second position; and a lever configured to rotate about a second axis, the lever comprising a first lever end and a second lever end opposite to the first lever end, the second axis located between the first lever and the second lever end; wherein the actuator and the lever are arranged such that a first surface of the lever faces the actuator, the first surface of the lever being a surface between the first lever end and the second axis, the actuator comprises a cam extending towards the lever and engaging the lever at the first surface; and the actuator and the lever are configured such that rotation of the actuator between the first position and the second position causes the cam to move over the first surface between a first location on the first surface and a second location on the first surface and to exert a force on the first surface, thus causing the lever to rotate about the second axis.
2. The actuation mechanism of claim 1, wherein the actuator is a bi-stable actuator.
The actuation mechanism of claim 1 or 2, wherein: the lever comprises a rib on the first surface, the rib extending towards the actuator; and the actuator and the lever are configured such that the rotation of the actuator between the first position and the second position causes the cam to move over the rib. 4.
The actuation mechanism of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein: the lever comprises a first recess and a second recess, the first and second recesses being recesses in the first surface; and the actuator and the lever are configured such that the rotation of the actuator between the first position and the second position causes the cam to move between being located in the first recess and being located in the second recess.
5. The actuation mechanism of claim 4 when dependent on claim 3, 10 wherein the rib is located between the first recess and the second recess.
6. The actuation mechanism of any of claims 1 to 5, further comprising biasing means configured to force the first surface of the lever against the cam.
7. The actuation mechanism of claim 6, wherein the biasing means is a spring coupled to a second surface of the lever, the second surface of the lever being a surface between the second lever end and the second axis.
8. The actuation mechanism of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the lever comprises a slot located at or proximate to the second lever end.
9. The actuation mechanism of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein: the actuation mechanism further comprises an actuator housing, the actuator is coupled to the actuator housing such that the actuator is rotatable, relative to the actuator housing, about the first axis between the first position and the second position, -2 8 -the actuator comprises a first actuator end and a second actuator end opposite to the first actuator end, the first axis located between the first actuator end and the second actuator end; the actuator comprises: a first protrusion located between the first actuator end and the first axis; and a second protrusion located between the second actuator end and the first axis; the actuator housing comprises a first arm and a second arm; the actuator and the actuator housing are configured such that movement of the actuator into the first position causes the first protrusion to engage with and exert a force on the first arm, thereby causing movement of the first arm; and the actuator and the actuator housing are configured such that 15 movement of the actuator into the second position causes the second protrusion to engage with and exert a force on the second arm, thereby causing movement of the second arm.
10. The actuation mechanism of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein: the actuation mechanism further comprises at least one further actuator; each further actuator is configured to rotate about a respective axis between respective first and second positions; each further actuator comprises a respective further cam extending towards the lever and engaging the lever at the first surface; and each further actuator and the lever are configured such that rotating that further actuator between its first position and its second position causes the further cam of that further actuator to move over the first surface between a respective further first location on the first surface and a further second location -29 -on the first surface and to exert a force on the first surface, thus causing the lever to rotate about the second axis.
11. The actuation mechanism of claim 10 when dependent on claim 9, wherein: each further actuator is coupled to the actuator housing such that that further actuator is rotatable, relative to the actuator housing, about its axis between its first position and its second position; each further actuator comprises a respective first further actuator end and a respective second further actuator end opposite to its first further actuator end, the axis of that further actuator being located between the first further actuator end and the second further actuator end of that further actuator; each further actuator comprises: a first further protrusion located between the first further actuator end and the axis of that further actuator; and a second further protrusion located between the second further actuator end and the axis of that further actuator; the actuator housing comprises, for each further actuator, a respective further first arm associated with that further actuator and a respective further second arm associated with that further actuator; the further actuators and the actuator housing are configured such that, for each further actuator, movement of that further actuator into its first position causes the first further protrusion of that further actuator to engage with and exert a force on the further first arm associated with that further actuator, thereby causing movement of that further first arm; and the further actuators and the actuator housing are configured such that, for each further actuator, movement of that further actuator into its second position causes the second further protrusion of that further actuator to engage with and exert a force on the further second arm associated with that further actuator, thereby causing movement of that further second arm.
12. The actuation mechanism of claim 9, or any claim dependent on claim 9, wherein each arm comprises a respective electrically conductive portion located at or proximate to a distal end of that arm.
13. A controller for a wireless electric switch system, the controller comprising: an actuation mechanism according to any of claims 1 to 12; a power source; and a transmitter; wherein the actuation mechanism, the power source, and the transmitter are configured such that activation of the power source by operation of the actuation mechanism causes the power source to provide electrical power to the transmitter; and the transmitter is configured to transmit a signal in response to receiving electrical power from the power source.
14. The controller of claim 13, wherein the controller is a wireless light switch for controlling a light fixture.
15. The controller of claim 13 or 14, wherein the transmitter is a radiofrequency transmitter configured to transmit a radiofrequency signal.
16. The controller of any of claims 13 to 15, wherein the power source is an energy harvesting device configured to convert mechanical energy imparted to the energy harvesting device by the lever of the actuation mechanism into the electrical power.
17. The controller of any of claims 13 to 16, wherein the actuation mechanism is in accordance with claim 9 or any claim dependent on claim 9; each arm of the actuator housing comprises a respective electrically conductive portion; the actuation mechanism, the power source, and the transmitter are configured such that, for each arm, movement of that arm by the actuator causes the electrically conductive portion of that arm to move so as to close a respective different electrical circuit; and the transmitter is connected to each of the respective different electrical circuits.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit a different signal depending on which of the different electrical circuits is closed.
19. An assembly for use in a controller of a wireless electric switch system, the assembly comprising: an actuator, and an actuator housing; the actuator is coupled to the actuator housing such that the actuator is rotatable, relative to the actuator housing, about a first axis between a first position and a second position; the actuator comprises a first actuator end and a second actuator end opposite to the first actuator end, the first axis located between the first actuator 25 end and the second actuator end; the actuator comprises: a first protrusion located between the first actuator end and the first axis; and -32 -a second protrusion located between the second actuator end and the first axis; the actuator housing comprises a first arm and a second arm; and the actuator and the actuator housing are configured such that movement of the actuator into the first position causes the first protrusion to engage with and exert a force on the first arm, thereby causing movement of the first arm; and the actuator and the actuator housing are configured such that movement of the actuator into the second position causes the second 10 protrusion to engage with and exert a force on the second arm, thereby causing movement of the second arm.
20. The assembly of claim 19, wherein: the switch actuator assembly further comprises at least one further 15 actuator; each further actuator is coupled to the actuator housing such that that further actuator is rotatable, relative to the actuator housing, about its axis between its first position and its second position; each further actuator comprises a respective first further actuator end and a second further actuator end opposite to the first further actuator end, the axis of that further actuator being located between the first further actuator end and the second further actuator end of that further actuator; each further actuator comprises: a first further protrusion located between the first further actuator end and the axis of that further actuator; and a second further protrusion located between the second further actuator end and the axis of that further actuator; -33 -the actuator housing comprises, for each further actuator, a respective further first arm associated with that further actuator and a respective further second arm associated with that further actuator; the further actuators and the actuator housing are configured such that, for each further actuator, movement of that further actuator into its first position causes the first further protrusion of that further actuator to engage with and exert a force on the further first arm associated with that further actuator, thereby causing movement of that further first arm; and the further actuators and the actuator housing are configured such that, for each further actuator, movement of that further actuator into its second position causes the second further protrusion of that further actuator to engage with and exert a force on the further second arm associated with that further actuator, thereby causing movement of that further second arm.
21. A system comprising: an assembly according to claim 19 or 20; a power source; and a transmitter; wherein the switch actuator assembly, the power source, and the transmitter are configured such that activation of the power source by operation of the switch actuator assembly causes the power source to provide electrical power to the transmitter; and the transmitter is configured to transmit a signal in response to receiving electrical power from the power source.
22. The system of claim 21, wherein each arm of the actuator housing comprises a respective electrically conductive portion; and -34 -the switch actuator assembly, the power source, and the transmitter are configured such that, for each arm, movement of that arm by the actuator causes the electrically conductive portion of that arm to move so as to close a respective different electrical circuit.
23. The system of claim 22, wherein the transmitter is configured to transmit a different signal depending on which of the different electrical circuits is closed.
24. A controller for a wireless electric switch system, the controller 10 comprising: a plurality of actuators; a common power source; a coupling mechanism coupling the plurality of actuators to the common power source; and a transmitter; wherein the plurality of actuators, the coupling mechanism, the common power source, and the transmitter are configured such each actuator is independently controllable to cause the coupling mechanism to activate the common power source so as to cause the common power source to provide electrical power to zo the transmitter; and the transmitter is configured to transmit a signal in response to receiving electrical power from the power source.
25. The switch of claim 24, wherein the common power source is an energy harvesting device configured to convert mechanical energy imparted to the energy harvesting device by the coupling mechanism into the electrical power.