AU2016203931B2 - Electrical device mounting system - Google Patents

Abstract

Disclosed is an apparatus for allowing an electrical unit to be mounted flush with respect to a surface. In one aspect, there is provided a retainer for receiving the electrical unit, and for moving from a first position in which the electrical unit is flush with the surface or at least partially recessed therefrom, to a second position in which at least a portion of the electrical unit protrudes from the surface to allow the electrical unit to be removed and allow access behind the electrical unit. Also disclosed are a method of mounting an electrical unit to the surface and removing the electrical unit from a cavity behind the surface.

Description

ELECTRICAL DEVICE MOUNTING SYSTEM PRIORITY

[0001] This application claims priority from Australian Patent Application No. 2015902227 filed on 12 June 2015. The entire content of this document is 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" 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 Provisional Patent Application No 2015275233 entitled "Switch Assembly with Rotatable Operational Part" Australian Patent Application No 2015275225 entitled "Electrical System, Apparatus and Method"

[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 receiver for at least partial insertion into an aperture in a surface, the receiver comprising: a mounting portion for mounting the receiver to a mounting support; and a retainer for retaining an electrical unit wherein the retainer is moveable with respect to the mounting portion and wherein the retainer is able to be moved from a first position to a second position, the first position allowing the electrical unit, when retained by the retainer, to be retained at least partially recessed from the surface or flush with the surface and the second position allowing the electrical unit, when retained by the retainer, to at least partially protrude from the surface via the aperture.

[0009] In one embodiment, the retainer is pivotally moveable with respect to the mounting portion.

[0010] In one embodiment, the retainer is slidingly moveable with respect to the mounting portion.

[0011] In one embodiment, the retainer is slidingly and pivotally moveable with respect to the mounting portion.

[0012] In one embodiment, the retainer is able to be moved from the first position to the second position by releasing a securer.

[0013] In one embodiment, the securer is released by actuation of an actuator.

[0014] In one embodiment, the securer is released by use of a magnet.

[0015] In one embodiment, the securer is released wirelessly.

[0016] In one embodiment, the retainer is biased towards the second position and moves from the first position to the second position upon releasing the securer.

[0017] According to a second aspect, there is provided a method of mounting an electrical unit to a surface, the method comprising: inserting the electrical unit into a receiver according to the first aspect.

[0018] In one embodiment, the method further comprises moving the retainer into the first position such that the electrical unit lies flush with the surface or recessed from the surface.

[0019] According to a third aspect, there is provided a method of removing an electrical unit from a cavity behind a surface, wherein the electrical unit is mounted flush with the surface or recessed from the surface, the method comprising; causing a retainer of a receiver according to the first aspect, to move from a first position in which the electrical unit is flush with the surface or recessed from the surface, to a second position in which at least a portion of the electrical unit protrudes from the surface; and removing the electrical unit from the retainer.

[0020] According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of mounting a receiver for supporting an electrical unit to a surface surrounding an aperture, the method comprising; mounting a mounting portion of the receiver to the surface; covering at least a portion of the surface surrounding the aperture with a coating; and covering at least a portion of the mounting portion with the coating.

[0021] According to a fifth aspect, there is provided an arrangement comprising: an electrical unit, a support supporting the electrical unit such that the electrical unit is mounted flush with a surface, in a first state; and a support actuator for, upon actuation, causing the support to move with respect to the surface such that the electrical unit is no longer flush with the surface, in a second state.

[0021A] According to a sixth aspect, there is provided a receiver for at least partial insertion into an aperture in a surface, the receiver comprising: a mounting portion for mounting the receiver to a mounting support; and a retainer for removably receiving and retaining an electrical unit having a front face with a user interface, wherein the retainer is moveable with respect to the mounting portion and wherein the retainer is able to be moved from a first position to a second position, the first position allowing the front face of the electrical unit, when retained by the retainer, to be retained recessed from the surface or flush with the surface and such that the front face of the electrical unit is accessible to a user via the aperture, and the second position allowing the front face of the electrical unit, when retained by the retainer, to at least partially protrude from the surface via the aperture to allow removal of the electrical unit from the retainer by the user.

[0021B] According to a seventh aspect, there is provided a method of mounting an electrical unit having a front face with a user interface to a surface, the method comprising: inserting the electrical unit into a receiver according to the sixth aspect such that the front face with the user interface of the electrical unit is accessible by a user.

[0021C] According to an eighth aspect, there is provided a method of removing an electrical unit having a front face with a user interface, from a cavity behind a surface, wherein the front face of the electrical unit is flush with the surface or recessed from the surface, the method comprising: causing a retainer of a receiver according to the sixth aspect retaining the electrical unit, to move from a first position in which the front face of the electrical unit is flush with the surface or recessed from the surface, to a second position in which at least a portion of the front face of the electrical unit protrudes from the surface; and removing the electrical unit from the retainer.

[0021D] According to a ninth aspect, there is provided an arrangement comprising: a receiver according to the sixth aspect; and an electrical unit having a front face with a user interface inserted into the receiver such that the front face is accessible by a user.

4a

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure IA - shows an embodiment of an electrical device mounted flush to a surface according to one aspect described herein;

[0023] Figure 1B - shows a side view of one embodiment of the arrangement of Figure IA;

[0024] Figure 1C - shows a side view of another embodiment of the arrangement of Figure IA;

[0025] Figure 2 - shows a generalised arrangement of a receiver;

[0026] Figure 3 - shows an embodiment of a surface and an aperture for use in mounting the receiver of Figure 3;

[0027] Figure 4A - shows one embodiment of a moveable interface as a sliding interface;

[0028] Figure 4B - shows an embodiment of a moveable interface as a pivoting interface;

[0029] Figure 4C - shows another embodiment of a sliding interface;

[0030] Figure 4D - shows an embodiment of a moveable interface as both a pivoting and a sliding interface;

[0031] Figure 5A - shows the receiver of Figure 2 with electrical device for inserting into the receiver;

[0032] Figure 5B - shows the arrangement of Figure 5A with the electrical device inserted into the receiver;

[0033] Figure 6A - shows a side view of the arrangement of Figure 5B mounted flush to the surface in a first position with a sliding moveable connector;

[0034] Figure 6B - shows the arrangement of Figure 6A in a second position;

[0035] Figure 7A - shows a side view of the arrangement of Figure 5B mounted flush to the surface in a first position with a pivoting moveable connector;

[0036] Figure 7B - shows the arrangement of Figure 7A in a second position;

[0037] Figure 8A - shows a top view of another embodiment of the arrangement of Figure 5B in a first position;

[0038] Figure 8B - shows the arrangement of Figure 8A in which the retainer pivots on a side vertical axis to cause a side of the electrical unit to protrude from the surface in a second position;

[0039] Figure 9 - shows another embodiment of the arrangement in which the electrical unit is able to be mounted within the aperture in the surface to lie recessed from the surface;

[0040] Figure 10 - shows another embodiment of the arrangement in which the electrical unit is able to be mounted within the aperture in the surface to lie recessed from the surface at an angle;

[0041] Figure 11A - shows an embodiment of the receiver with a securer retaining the retainer in a first position;

[0042] Figure 11B - shows the arrangement of Figure 11A with the securer released causing the retainer to assume the second position;

[0043] Figure 12 - shows a particular embodiment of the receiver;

[0044] Figure 13 - shows an exploded view of the components of the receiver of Figure 12;

[0045] Figure 14A - shows a front view of the receiver of Figure 12;

[0046] Figure 14B - shows a top end view of the receiver of Figure 12;

[0047] Figure 14C - shows a rear view of the receiver of Figure 12;

[0048] Figure 14D - shows a right side view of the receiver of Figure 12;

[0049] Figure 14E - shows a left side view of the receiver of Figure 12;

[0050] Figure 14F - shows a rear end view of the receiver of Figure 12;

[0051] Figure 15A - shows the internal components of a securer in more detail;

[0052] Figure 15B - is an exploded view of the components of the securer of Figure 15A;

[0053] Figure 16A - shows a right side perspective view of the receiver about to be installed;

[0054] Figure 16B - shows a left side perspective view of the receiver about to be installed;

[0055] Figure 16C - shows a front perspective view of the receiver installed;

[0056] Figure 17 - shows a rear view of the mounting portion mounted to the sublayer and a rear view of the retainer about to be connected to the mounting portion;

[0057] Figure 18 - shows a front perspective view of the receiver installed;

[0058] Figure 19 - shows the arrangement of Figure 18 with at least one further layer partially applied to the surface sublayer;

[0059] Figure 20 - shows the arrangement of Figure 19 with a final layer partially applied to the at least one further layer to provide the surface;

[0060] Figure 21 - shows the arrangement of Figure 20 with the final layer completely applied to the at least one further layer to provide the surface;

[0061] Figure 22- shows the arrangement of Figure 21 with an electrical unit being a switch unit about to be inserted into the receiver;

[0062] Figure 23 - shows the arrangement of Figure 21 with an electrical unit 300 being a power socket and switch unit;

[0063] Figure 24 - shows a rear view of Figure 22 with electrical unit received within receiver 2000;

[0064] Figure 25 - shows the arrangement of Figure 22 with the electrical unit 300 received in the receiver;

[0065] Figure 26 - shows the arrangement of Figure 23 with the electrical unit received in the receiver;

[0066] Figure 27 - shows the arrangement of Figure 25 with the retainer in the second position;

[0067] Figure 28 - shows the arrangement of Figure 26 with the retainer in the second position;

[0068] Figure 29 - shows another embodiment in which the retainer moves into the second position evenly;

[0069] Figure 30A - shows a perspective front view of a generic embodiment of a base unit according to one aspect;

[0070] Figure 30B - shows a perspective rear view of the base unit of Figure 30A;

[0071] Figure 31 - shows an example of one type of power converter suitable for use with one embodiment of the base unit;

[0072] Figure 32A - shows a side view of the base unit with power input;

[0073] Figure 32B - shows a front perspective view of the base unit with an embodiment of a transmitter coil;

[0074] Figure 32C - shows a front perspective view of the base unit with another embodiment of the transmitter coil;

[0075] Figure 33 - shows a base unit according to another embodiment, including a base supply power output;

[0076] Figure 34 - shows a perspective rear view of a cover unit according to one embodiment;

[0077] Figure 35A - shows a perspective rear view of a cover unit according to another embodiment;

[0078] Figure 35B - shows a perspective rear view of a cover unit according to another embodiment;

[0079] Figure 36 - shows a side view of cover unit connected to base unit to allow power and/or data to be transferred between the two units inductively;

[0080] Figure 37 - shows an embodiment of the base unit with a base switch interface;

[0081] Figure 38 - shows a front perspective view of a base unit with a data input;

[0082] Figure 39 - shows a front perspective view of a base unit with a base data output;

[0083] Figure 40 - shows a front perspective view of a base unit with a base supply power output;

[0084] Figure 41 - shows a cover unit with a cover connector;

[0085] Figure 42 - shows a cover unit with a cover power input;

[0086] Figure 43 - shows a cover unit with a user interface;

[0087] Figure 44 - shows a cover unit with a cover data input;

[0088] Figure 45- shows a cover unit with a cover data output;

[0089] Figure 46 - shows a cover unit with a cover switch interface;

[0090] Figure 47 - shows a system according to one embodiment;

[0091] Figure 48 - shows a system according to another embodiment;

[0092] Figure 49A - shows the embodiments of Figures 30A to 48 applied to the receiver with the base unit connected to the retainer in the first position and the cover unit about to be connected to the base unit;

[0093] Figure 49B - shows the arrangement of Figure 49A with the cover unit connected to the base unit and lying flush with the surface;

[0094] Figure 49C - shows the arrangement of Figure 49B with the retainer in the second position;

[0095] Figure 50A - shows another embodiment of the receiver arrangement using the two part electrical system in which the base unit is installed separately to the retainer, and the cover unit about to be connected to the base unit;

[0096] Figure 50B - shows the arrangement of Figure 50A with the cover unit connected to the base unit and the retainer in the first position;

[0097] Figure 50C - shows the arrangement of Figure 50B with the retainer in the second position; and

[0098] Figure 51- shows a front perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 49A.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0099] Figure 1A shows an electrical unit 300 installed or mounted with respect to a surface 55. In this embodiment, electrical unit 300 is installed such that its front face 301 is flush with the surface. It will be understood that the front face 301 is the face of the electrical unit 300 that is visible to a user when the electrical unit 300 is installed. The front face 310 may have within it, user interface elements such as a button, touch switch, display or speaker. In some embodiments, one or more of these user interfaces 1201 can protrude from the front face. In other embodiments, the user interface does not protrude from the front face 301.

[00100] A flush mounting can be very desirable in that it provides enhanced aesthetics and can provide architectural and design advantages over electrical units that protrude from a surface such as a wall, a floor or a desk.

[00101] Such flush mounting however, is difficult to achieve and provides challenges when wanting to remove the electrical unit from the surface or access the wiring or mounting components behind it.

[00102] Figure 1B shows a side view of one embodiment of the arrangement of Figure 1A, in which the user interface 1201 protrudes from the front face of electrical unit 300 and thus protrudes beyond the surface 55.

[00103] Figure IC shows a side view of another embodiment of the arrangement of Figure 1A, in which the user interface 1201 does not protrude from the front face of electrical unit 300 and thus does not protrude beyond the surface 55.

[00104] Figure 2 shows an embodiment of an aspect described herein, to enable the arrangement of any one or more of Figures 1A to IC. In this aspect, there is provided a receiver 2000 for at least partial insertion into an aperture 56 in the surface 55 (see Figure 3). In this embodiment, the receiver 2000 comprises a mounting portion 2100 for mounting the receiver to a mounting support (not shown in this view). Receiver 2000 also comprises a retainer 2200 for retaining the electrical unit 300 In this embodiment, the retainer 2200 is moveable with respect to the mounting portion 2100 and the retainer 2200 is able to be moved from a first position to a second position.

[00105] The first position allows the electrical unit 300, when retained by the retainer 2200, to be retained at least partially recessed from the surface 55, or flush with the surface 55 as previously described with reference to Figures 1A to IC. The second position allows the electrical unit 300, when retained by the retainer 2200, to at least partially protrude from the surface 55 via the aperture 56 as will be described in more detail below.

[00106] Moveable interface 2300 is shown representatively in Figure 2, and provides for an interface between mounting portion 2100 and retainer 2200. In one embodiment, moveable interface 2300 is a hinge. In another embodiment, moveable interface 2300 is a sliding interface. In some embodiments, retainer 2200 and mounting portion 2100 are "loosely connected" by moveable interface 2300 in that they are not physically fixed to each other and can simply slide and/or rotate with respect to one another. In other embodiments, retainer 2200 and mounting portion 2100 are moveably fixed to each other by way of a hinge for example.

[00107] Figure 3 shows surface 55, with an aperture 56 therein. Surface 55 may be provided by any suitable object such as a wall, a floor, a ceiling, a door or a desk. The various embodiments and aspects described herein will be described with reference to the surface 55 being a surface of a wall, however, it will be appreciated that the various aspects and embodiments can be equally applied to any suitable application including the objects referred to above. Furthermore, aperture 56 can take on any suitable shape, including rectangular, square, triangular and circular, and may be formed to suit the shape of the electrical unit 300 being used for the particular application.

[00108] In one embodiment of the moveable interface 2300, moveable interface 2300 is a sliding interface. In one particular embodiment as shown in Figure 4A, the sliding interface comprises a sleeve portion 2301 connected to the mounting portion 2100 for receiving a projection portion 2302 connected to the retainer 2200. In this embodiment, projection portion 2302 slides within sleeve portion 230Ito move retainer 2200 between the first position to the second position.

[00109] Figure 4B shows moveable interface 2300 as a pivoting interface. In one embodiment of pivoting interface, moveable interface 2300 is provided by a cylindrical pin 2306 (connected to retainer 2200) received in pin aperture 2305. This arrangement allows retainer 2200 to pivot between the first position and the second position.

[00110] In Figure 4C, another embodiment of the moveable interface 2300 as a sliding interface is shown. In this embodiment, a sliding aperture 2303 is provided, in which is received pin 2304 to provide moveable interface 2300 as a sliding interface.

[00111] Figure 4D shows another embodiment of moveable interface 2300. In this embodiment, moveable interface 2300 allows for both sliding and pivoting motion, with cylindrical pin 2306 received in a curved aperture 2307. This arrangement allows for retainer 2200 to slide and pivot, resulting also in the retainer 2200 moving outwards towards the user as will be described in more detail further below.

[00112] It will be appreciated that any other suitable combinations and arrangements of moveable interfaces can be provided. One further example will be described in more detail below with reference to an embodiment of the receiver 2000.

[00113] Figure 5A shows receiver 2000 comprising retainer 2200 and mounting portion 2100. Retainer 2200 is moveable with respect to the mounting portion 2100 via moveable interface 2300 as previously described. Electrical unit 300 is shown separated from retainer 2200. The arrow indicates that electrical unit 300 can be inserted into or received by retainer 2200 to thereby retain electrical unit 300 when inserted. It will be appreciated that the electrical unit 300 can be any suitable type of electrical arrangement or device that is in use, mounted to a surface. Examples include a switch unit, a display unit, a speaker or audio device, an electrical socket arrangement, including an arrangement to provide supply or mains power, or a device that provides regulated power via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port for example. Electrical deice 300 can also be a data transfer unit, to transfer data wirelessly (for example using radio frequency (RF) signal or optical signals) or via a hard connection using any suitable data transfer device and/or protocol. Examples of wireless transfer devices include Bluetooth@, BLE@ or ZigBee@. Examples of hard connection data ports include RJ-45 type connectors, RJ11, RJ14, RJ25, RJ48, RJ61, XLR connectors, XLD connectors, DIN connectors, BNC connectors and USB ports.

[00114] In the embodiment shown in Figure 5A, electrical unit 300 is a switch unit with a user interface 1201, in this embodiment, provided by three buttons. These buttons could be for example, push buttons, optical switches or touch switches. In this embodiment, electrical unit 300 has a front face 301 which surrounds the user interface 1201.

[00115] Figure 5B shows electrical unit 300 inserted into and retained by retainer 2200. The means of retention could be by any suitable means, including friction fit, adhesive, hook and loop arrangement, clipping connectors and magnetic retention.

[00116] Figure 6A shows a side view of the arrangement of Figure 5B when mounted with respect to the surface 55. In this embodiment, receiver 2000 is mounted within a cavity 57 behind a wall 58 which provides surface 55. Receiver 2000 is mounted with respect to surface 55 by mounting mounting portion 2100 to a mounting support 54. Mounting support 54 can be any suitable support, including a part of wall 58, the surface 55, one or more struts within the cavity 57, or a dedicated support provided to support receiver 2000.

[00117] In the arrangement of Figure 6A, retainer 2200 with retained electrical unit 300 is shown in a first position, being in this example, a position that causes electrical unit 300 to lie flush with the surface 55.

[00118] Figure 6B shows the arrangement of Figure 6A but with retainer 2200 with retained electrical unit 300 in a second position, in this example, with electrical unit 300 protruding at least partially from surface 55. This is accomplished by allowing retainer 2200 to slide outwards with respect to the surface 55 and with respect to the mounting portion 2100 as previously described. As will be appreciated, this position allows purchase on electrical unit 300 to allow it to be withdrawn from retention by retainer 2200 and removed from surface 55. This allows access to wiring to electronics behind electrical unit 300 and also allows convenient replacement of the same or a different electrical unit 33 as will be described in more detail below.

[00119] Figure 7A shows the arrangement of Figure 6A with electrical unit 300 mounted flush with surface 55. In one embodiment of this embodiment, electrical unit 300 is contained entirely within retainer 2200. In this arrangement however, the retainer 2200 is pivotally moveable with respect to mounting portion 2100, such that upon movement of the retainer 2200 from the first position of Figure 7A to the second position, at least a part of the electrical unit 300 is caused to protrude from surface 55 to allow subsequent removal.

[00120] Figure 8A shows another arrangement of receiver 2000 with electrical unit 300 retained in retainer 2200, installed behind a surface 55. Figure 8A shows the arrangement from above, showing the top of electrical unit 300. Again, in this view, it can be seen that electrical unit 300 lies flush with the surface 55, in a first position. Figure 8B shows the arrangement in a second position, causing at least a portion of electrical unit 300 to protrude from surface 55. In this arrangement, retainer 2200 is pivotally moveable with respect to mounting portion 2100 (not shown in this view). This arrangement causes a side edge of the electrical unit 300 to protrude, rather than a lower edge as is the case in the arrangement of Figure 7B.

[00121] Figure 9 shows another embodiment, in which electrical unit 300 is retained by retainer 2200 in a first position that causes the front face 301 of electrical unit 300 to be recessed within surface 55 rather than flush with surface 55. To remove electrical unit 55 from its mounting, retainer 2200 is caused to move from a first position as shown in Figure 9 to a second position as shown in Figures 6B, 7B or 8B as previously described.

[00122] In yet a further embodiment as shown in Figure 10, electrical unit 300 is retained by retainer 2200 in a first position that causes at least a portion of the front face 301 of electrical unit 300 to be recessed within surface 55 rather than flush with surface 55, thus being at least partially recessed, but in this embodiment, is oriented at an angle with respect to the surface 55. To remove electrical unit 300 from its mounting, retainer 2200 is caused to move from a first position as shown in Figure 10 to a second position as shown in Figures 6B, 7B or 8B as previously described. These alternative embodiments can be selected according to physical constraints or limitations of the environment, or for design and aesthetic reasons.

[00123] In some embodiments, the first position is a natural resting place for the retainer 2200, such that it will only move to the second position upon a force acting on it.In other embodiments, the retainer 2200 is biased towards the second position, such that it must be secured by a securer 2400 (see Figure 11 and related description below) in the first position. Examples of biasing forces that might act on retainer 2200 when in the first position include a spring force located behind retainer 2200 such that upon the securer being released, one or more springs will push the retainer 2200 towards the second position. In other embodiments, the biasing force is gravity. In such an embodiment, the retainer 2200 is weighted non-uniformly (for example weighted at an upper end, a lower end or a side) so as to fall into the second position when the securer is released. In other embodiments, the electrical unit 300 is weighted non-uniformly so as to pull retainer 2200 into the second position when the securer is released.

[00124] Figure 11A shows a general embodiment of a receiver 2000 comprising retainer 2200, mounting portion 2100 and moveable interface 2300. In this view, retainer 2200 is retaining electrical unit 300 in a first position, such that the front face 301 of electrical unit 300 is flush with the surface 55. In this embodiment, retainer 2200 is biased from the first position to the second position, the biasing force represented by arrow 2500. Retainer 2200 is secured in the first position by securer 2400.

[00125] Figure 11B shows the arrangement of Figure 11A after the securer 2400 has been released, causing retainer 2200 to have moved into the second position, resulting in at least a portion of the front face 301 of electrical unit to protrude from surface 55.

[00126] Securer 2400 can be provided by any suitable means including a pin arrangement, a magnet that is releasable (such as an electromagnet) or that may be overcome by a stronger magnet, a gearing system, a snap-lock arrangement, or a friction fit that can be overcome by a user applying a pulling action to the electrical unit to overcome the frictional forces securing the retainer 2200 in the first position.

[00127] The securer 2400 may be released by any suitable means, including by manual actuation of a switch or button from external to the surface 55, by use of a magnet to actuate the release of the securer, by remote means such as a remote control device transmitting a release signal, by the user tapping the surface 55 or the electrical device 300 in a special sequence that is recognised by the securer as a release signal, or by voice or other audio command generated from external of the surface 55.

[00128] Figure 12 shows an embodiment of receiver 2000, comprising retainer 2200 moveable with respect to a mounting portion 2100. In this embodiment, mounting portion 2100 is provided by a frame that in use, is mounted directly on to a surface sublayer 51 as described in more detail below in relation to Figures 16 - 17. Receiver 2000 can be made from any suitable material including metal (e.g. aluminium), plastic and even wood.

[00129] Figure 13 shows an exploded diagram of the parts of receiver 2000. Shown there are mounting portion 2100, retainer 2200 and securer 2400. In this embodiment, securer 2400 comprises main body 2401 and two teeth elements 2402 and 2403. The operation of securer 2400 will be described in more detail below.

[00130] Hook elements 2101, 2102, 2103 are provided in this embodiment to provide additional securement in mounting receiver 2000 as will be described in more detail below. Hook element screws 2104, 2105, 2106 act on hook elements 2101, 2102, 2103 to provide the securing force as will be described below. Electrical device retention bars 2201 and 2202 are provided in this embodiment as a means of fixing electrical device 300 to the retainer 2200.

[00131] Figures 14A to 14F show a range of views of receiver 2000 from different angles. Figure 14A - shows a front view of the receiver of Figure 12, Figure 14B shows a top end view of the receiver of Figure 12; Figure 14C shows a rear view of the receiver of Figure 12; Figure 14D shows a right side view of the receiver of Figure 12, Figure 14E shows a left side view of the receiver of Figure 12 and Figure 14F shows a rear end view of the receiver of Figure 12.

[00132] Figures 15A and 15B show one embodiment of the securer 2400, and in particular, a view of its internal components. Figure 15A shows the inside of securer 2400, including securer release 2404, with cogs which engage with corresponding cogs on drivers 2405 and 2406. Drivers 2405 and 2406 are mounted to posts 2407 and 2408 respectively, and engage with teeth elements 2402 and 2403 (see Figure 13 for example). In use, when securer release 2404 is actuated (e.g. by a user pushing on the release), the movement of securer release 2404 causes each of the drivers 2405 and 2406 to pivot about posts 2407 and 2408, causing teeth elements 2402 and 2406 to be moved inwardly to disengage, thus allowing mounting portion 2100 to move outwards as previously described.

[00133] Figure 15B shows an exploded view of the securer 2400 and its components, including main body 2401, cover 2401a, securer release 2404 and drivers 2405 and 2406.

[00134] Figure 16A shows a right-side perspective view and Figure 16B shows a left perspective view of the receiver 2000 about to be installed. Shown is receiver 2000 comprising mounting portion 2100 and retainer 2200, and a surface sublayer 51 having aperture 56. In one embodiment, surface sublayer 51 is a base structure such as plasterboard and in some embodiments, will be covered by at least one further coating to provide surface 55 as will be described in more detail below. In other embodiments, surface 55 is provided by surface sublayer 51 when no further layers are added.

[00135] Figure 17 shows a rear view of the arrangement of Figures 16A and 16B when the mounting portion 2100 has been mounted to the surface sublayer 51. This view also shows retainer 2200 being positioned to be connected to mounting portion 2100. In this embodiment, the retainer 2200 is "connected" to mounting portion 2100 via moveable interface 2300 which in this embodiment, is provided by projection portions 2302 of the retainer 2200 being received in sleeve portions 2301 of the mounting portion 2100. The arrangement is restrained by stop portions 2308 on mounting portion 2100 being received in stop recesses 2309 on retainer 2200. This provides a stop to restrict the movement of retainer 2200 with respect to mounting portion 2100 to restrict the movement between the first position and the second position. This arrangement can also be seen in Figures 14D and 14E.

[00136] A rear view of the receiver 2000 installed with retainer 2100 interfaced via movable interface 2300 can be seen in Figure 14C previously referred to.

[00137] It will be appreciated that the mounting interface 2300 is not fixed in that the movement is provided simply by the two parts sliding with respect to one another, and the retainer 2200 is easily separated from the mounting portion 2100 by removing stop portions 2308 from the respective stop recesses 2309. This may be done by slightly flexing the parts to allow them to separate.

[00138] In this view, hook elements 2101, 2102 and 2103 can be seen, secured by respective hook element screws 2104, 2105 and 2106. Hook elements 2101 and 2102 can be seen to abut and push against the back of sublayer 51 to effectively sandwich sublayer 51 between the hook elements 2101 and 2102 and the frame 2110 of mounting portion 2100 that rests against the surface of sublayer 51 as seen in Figure 16C. This sandwiching force can be increased by more tightly screwing in the hook element screws.

[00139] Figure 18 shows a front perspective view of the receiver 2000 installed within the aperture 56 of surface sublayer 51 after interfacing retainer 2200 to the mounting portion 2100 as shown in Figure 17.

[00140] In the configuration of the receiver 2000 of the present embodiment, the frame 2110 of the mounting portion 2100 lies on top of the surface sublayer 51 and protrudes above this sublayer (for example by about 0.5mm or less to about 2mm or more). According to one aspect described herein, the installation continues by applying at least one further layer 52 (see Figure 19) to surface sublayer 51. This at least one further layer will depend upon the nature of the surface or wall as will be understood by persons versed in the building trade for example. For example, if the surface sublayer is plasterboard, the at least one further sublayer 52 could be one or more of plaster, a sealant layer, tiles, or a further plasterboard sheet.

[00141] Figure 19 shows the arrangement of Figure 18 with the at least one further layer 52, such as plaster, in the process of being applied to the surface sublayer 51. This process will cover frame 2110 of mounting portion 2100 such that the surface 52' of at least one further layer 52 is flush with, or nearly flush with, the inside perimeter 2111 of receiver 2000. In practice, the at least one further layer can be 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more further layers.

[00142] Figure 20 shows the arrangement of Figure 19 when the at least one further layer 52 has been completely applied to provide the surface of the at least one further layer 52'. In one embodiment, a final layer 53 is applied to the surface of at least one further layer 52'. In some embodiments, this final layer 53 is paint. In other embodiments, the final layer 53 is a sealant. In other embodiments the final layer 53 is wallpaper. The surface of final layer 53 provides the surface 55. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the surface 55 is provided by the surface of the at least one further layers 52.

[00143] Figure 21 shows the arrangement of Figure 20 with the final layer 53 completely applied. This leaves surface 55 flush with the inside perimeter 2111.

[00144] It will be appreciated that each of these steps may be carried out by the same individual one after the other, or by separate individuals at different times. For example, in one embodiment, one individual (for example a builder) creates the aperture 56 in sublayer 51. The builder or an electrician then installs the receiver 2000 in the aperture 56 on the same day to the stage indicated in Figure 18. A plasterer then later applies the at least one further layer 52 a number of days later. A painter then applies the final layer 53 a number of weeks later.

[00145] It will also be appreciated that in some embodiments, a blank or other masking means can be used to allow the at least one further layer 52 and the final layer 53 to be applied up to the inside perimeter 2111, but not be allowed to ingress beyond that point into the receiver 2000.

[00146] Figure 22 shows the arrangement of Figure 21 with an electrical unit 300 being a switch unit about to be inserted into receiver 2000. Switch unit 300 can be secured to retainer 2200 by any suitable means, including magnetic means, temporary adhesive means, hook and loop means, friction fit or by screws being received in respective screw holes in electrical device retention bars 2201 and 2202. It will be appreciated that electrical unit 300 can be any suitable electrical unit including a switch unit with 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more switches. These switches can be any type of switch including touch switches, push button switches and rocker switches, and/or a combination of one or more of these types. Electrical unit 300 in other embodiments, can have other types of user interface such as a video screen, motion capture device, audio receiver, speaker, lights or other sensors. In other embodiments, electrical unit 300 can have one or more data interfaces, including RJ-45 type connectors, RJ11, RJ14, RJ25, RJ48, RJ61, XLR connectors, XLD connectors, DIN connectors, BNC connectors and USB ports. In other embodiments still, electrical unit 300 can have one or more wireless interfaces including Bluetooth@, BLE@ or ZigBee@. Any combination of the above is also possible.

[00147] Figure 23 shows the arrangement of Figure 21 with an electrical unit 300 being a power socket and switch unit.

[00148] Figure 24 shows a rear view of Figure 22 with electrical unit 300 received within receiver 2000. In use, depending upon the nature of the electrical unit, during installation, a suitably qualified person will connect the electrical unit 300 to a source of power, such as mains or supply voltage, by connecting wires to terminals 302. In other embodiments, electrical unit 300 need not be connected to a source of power, for example, in the case where electrical unit 300 has on board battery power.

[00149] Figure 25 shows the arrangement of Figure 22 with the electrical unit 300 received in the receiver 2000. As can be seen in this figure, electrical unit 300 lies flush with the surface 55. In this particular embodiment, specifically, the front face 301 of electrical unit 300 lies flush with the surface 55. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the switches may protrude from the front face 301 and thus themselves do not lie flush with the surface 55.

[00150] Figure 26 shows the arrangement of Figure 23 with the electrical unit 300 received in the receiver 2000. As can be seen in this figure, electrical unit 300 lies flush with the surface 55. In this particular embodiment, specifically, the front face 301 of electrical unit 300 lies flush with the surface 55. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, the switches may protrude from the front face 301 and thus themselves do not lie flush with the surface 55, and the sockets can lie flush with the surface.

[00151] Figure 27 shows the arrangement of Figure 25 with the retainer 2200 in the second position. This causes the electrical unit 300 to protrude at least partially from the surface 55, thus allowing purchase on and access to the electrical unit 300 and allowing access to the space behind it. Electrical unit 300 may then be removed from retainer 2200 and replaced with another electrical unit 300. As will be appreciated, the retainer 2200 assumes the second position upon an action by the user, such as actuating the securer 2400 (see Figure 24 for example) to release the retainer 2200 or otherwise cause it to move outwards as previously described.

[00152] Figure 28 shows the arrangement of Figure 26 with the retainer 2200 in the second position. In this embodiment, the second position results in electrical unit 300 moving outwards and horizontally.

[00153] In another embodiment, retainer 2200 moves from the first position into the second position by sliding outwards as a whole, rather than pivoting about an axis. This embodiment will result in the electrical unit 300 moving from its flush position with surface 55 to at least partially protrude therefrom as shown in Figure 29. In this example, electrical unit 300 also has user interface 1201 as a number of switches as well as a visual display.

[00154] Thus in a broad sense, in one aspect, there is provided an arrangement comprising an electrical unit 300, a support or receiver supporting the electrical unit such that the electrical unit is mounted flush with a surface, in a first state; and a support actuator for, upon actuation, causing the support or receiver to move with respect to the surface such that the electrical unit is no longer flush with the surface, in a second state. In one embodiment, the support actuator is the securer release previously described in its various forms. In another embodiment, the support actuator is one or more active drivers such as a motor, which upon actuation, causes the support to move from the first position to the second position and in some embodiments, from the second position to the first position. The actuation may be done by various means including actuating a button or other interface on or near the arrangement, or by actuating a button or other interface on a remote control device that sends a wireless signal (e.g. RF signal or infra-red signal) to a signal receiver which causes the support actuator to actuate to thereby move the support or receiver between the first and second positions.

[00155] The above has described the application of a receiver to an electrical unit of a single piece. According to another aspect described herein, electrical unit 300 comprises two sections, being a base unit 100 and a cover unit 200.

[00156] In one aspect described herein, there is provided a base unit 100 for electrical connection to a mains or supply power. Figure 30A shows a front perspective view of a general embodiment of base unit 100 and Figure 30B shows a rear perspective view of the base unit 100 of Figure 30A. In one aspect, the base unit 100 comprises a mounting region 110 for mounting the base unit 100 to a surface such as a wall or the retainer 2100 previously described. In some embodiments, the surface is a wall. In some other embodiments, the surface is a floor. In some other embodiments, the surface is a wall of a box or other enclosure. In other embodiments, the surface is a frame for supporting the base unit 100 such as the retainer 2200 previously described.

[00157] In some embodiments, the mounting region 110 is itself a surface which will come into contact with the surface to which the base unit 100 is to be mounted.In other embodiments, the mounting region 110 is a pin, tab or other connector.

[00158] As shown in Figure 30A, 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 30A 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.

[00159] 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 30A). In some countries, the mains, or supply power is provided as an alternating current (AC) electrical signal of about 240V (for example between about 220V and 260V) and about 50Hz frequency. In other countries, mains or supply power is provided as an AC signal of between about 100V and 130V. Some systems use a frequency of about 50Hz while others use a frequency of about 60Hz. Some supply power systems are single phase and others may be three-phase. It will be understood that any electrical power that would be considered to be supply or mains power can be used.

[00160] In some embodiments, base unit 100 will also comprise a base power output 150 (see Figure 30A) for providing output power to the cover unit 200 when cover unit 200 is connected to base unit 100.

[00161] 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.

[00162] 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.

[00163] 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.

[00164] In some embodiments, the base power output will be shielded or otherwise protected so that no electrically-live element is easily accessible by a user when the base unit 100 is installed. In some embodiments, the default state of the base 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.

[00165] 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 31. 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.

[00166] As described above, in some embodiments, base power output 150 is provided by an inductive power transfer system.

[00167] Figure 32A shows a side view of a base unit 100 for mounting to a surface, and for connection to a source of power, such as mains or supply power. In this aspect, the base unit 100 comprises base supply power input 130 provided by an input terminal block for receiving mains or supply power 50, a first side 410 of an induction power transfer system 400 connected to the base supply power input 130 for receiving power from the supply power 50 and for radiating energy from a coil of the first side. In this arrangement, first side 410 also acts as power converter 140 in that it receives mains or supply power at its input and outputs power in a different form as will be described in more detail below.

[00168] 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 32B, 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 32C. 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.

[00169] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 33, base unit 100 comprises abase 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.

[00170] In another aspect, there is provided a cover unit 200 as shown in Figure 34. 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.

[00171] The cover connector 220 is shown generically in Figure 34 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.

[00172] 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.

[00173] According to another aspect described herein, cover power input 210 is a second side 420 of the inductive power transfer system 400. Figure 35A shows cover unit 200 with cover power input 210 provided by a receiving coil 424 of second side 420. Functional electronics 280 is connected to second side 420 to receive power to power any components of the functional circuitry.

[00174] Figure 35B shows another embodiment in which receiving coil 424 is provided in a more compact area.

[00175] 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. 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.

[00176] In one embodiment, the method of transmitting data from the primary side (i.e. base unit 100 to the secondary side (i.e. cover unit 200) is by way of modulation of the excitation frequency of the primary coil in accordance with the input data. This modulation may be done using analogue techniques in one embodiment, but may also be done via a microcontroller in other embodiments.

[00177] 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.

[00178] In one embodiment, the method of transmitting data from the secondary side (i.e., the cover unit 200) to the primary side (i.e. base unit 100) is by way of amplitude modulation by applying modulation signals on the LC resonant circuit in accordance with the data input to the cover unit 200. Such data may be input by any suitable means, including by the user actuating one or more user inputs such as a button on the cover unit, or by remote means which transmit data wirelessly to cover unit 200.

[00179] Figure 36 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 as previously described.

[00180] 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.

[00181] Further technical details are described in a co-pending Australian Patent Application No. 2015275226 entitled "Inductive Power Transfer In An Electrical Outlet" previously incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[00182] 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 37 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.

[00183] 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. Details of a range of possible switching arrangements providing an interface between base unit 100 and cover unit 200 are described in Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Switch Assembly, System and Method", Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Push Button Switch Assembly", and Australian Provisional Patent Application entitled "Switch Assembly with Rotatable Operational Part", each of which are previously incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[00184] In other embodiments, as shown in Figure 38, base until 100 also comprises abase 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.

[00185] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 39, base unit 100 comprises abase 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.

[00186] 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.

[00187] 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.

[00188] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 40, base unit 200 comprises abase 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.

[00189] In another aspect, there is provided a cover unit 200 as shown in Figure 41. 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.

[00190] The cover connector 220 is shown generically in Figure 41 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.

[00191] In other embodiments, cover unit 200 comprises a cover power input 210 for receiving power output from base unit 100 as shown in Figure 42.

[00192] 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.

[00193] 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.

[00194] In some embodiments, cover power input 210 is provided by the secondary side of the inductive power transfer system previously described.

[00195] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 43, 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.

[00196] In other embodiments, as shown in Figure 44, 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.

[00197] In some embodiments as shown in Figure 45, 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.

[00198] 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.

[00199] In some embodiments, cover data output 250 is provided by the secondary side of the inductive power transfer system previously described.

[00200] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 comprises a cover switch interface 260 as shown in Figure 46, 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.

[00201] 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.

[00202] In some embodiments, functional circuitry 280 is controlled by user interface 230.

[00203] In some embodiments, cover unit 200 comprises a memory 270 for storing data.

[00204] In another aspect, there is provided an electrical unit 300 comprising the base unit 100 and the cover unit 200 as shown in Figure 47. In this embodiment, base unit 100 is mounted to surface 40 (for example a wall) via mounting region 110 and electrically connected to supply power 50 via base supply power input 130. Cover unit 200 is connected to base unit 100 via base connector 120 and cover connector 220.

[00205] In another embodiment of electrical unit 300, shown in Figure 48, 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.

[00206] 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.

[00207] 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.

[00208] 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.

[00209] Further details regarding this aspect are described in Australian Provisional Patent Application No. 2014905210 entitled "Electrical System, Apparatus and Method", the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[00210] It will be appreciated that the embodiments described with reference to Figures 30A to 48 can be used with the receiver described herein. In these embodiments, electrical unit 300 is provided as two separate units, in which the base unit 100 is fixed to, or in relation to, receiver 2000, and cover unit 200 is connected to base unit 100 to lie flush with the surface 55. When the retainer 2200 is actuated to move from the first position to the second position as previously described, cover unit 200 is caused to protrude from the surface 55 to allow it to be removed easily.

[00211] Figure 49A shows a representative cross-sectional side view of receiver 2000 installed behind surface 55. In this arrangement, base unit 100 is connected to retainer 2200, which is in the first position and cover unit 200 is about to be connected to base unit 100 as previously described.

[00212] Figure 49B shows the arrangement of Figure 49A with the cover unit 200 connected to base unit 100 and lying flush with surface 55. From a front perspective view, this will appear as in Figure 1A. Figure 49C shows the arrangement of Figure 49B with the retainer 2200 in the second position. This causes at least a portion of cover unit 200 to protrude form surface 55, allowing it to be removed.

[00213] In another embodiment of this arrangement, as shown in Figure 50A, base unit 200 is installed behind, or otherwise separate from retainer 2200. In the view of Figure 50A, cover unit 200 is about to be connected to base unit 100 as previously described. In Figure 50B, cover unit 200 is connected to both base unit 100 and retainer 2200. Again, from a front perspective view, this will appear as in Figure 1A. In Figure 50C, upon actuation of retainer 2200 into the second position, cover unit 200 is caused to separate from base unit 100 which remains in place behind surface 55, and causes cover unit to at least partially protrude from surface 55 to allow it to be removed.

[00214] Figure 51 shows a front perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 49A, which shows base unit 100 installed in receiver 2000 and cover unit 200 about to be connected to base unit 100.

[00215] 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.

[00216] 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.

[00217] 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 embodiments 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 (13)

1. A receiver for at least partial insertion into an aperture in a surface, the receiver comprising: a mounting portion for mounting the receiver to a mounting support; and a retainer for removably receiving and retaining an electrical unit having a front face with a user interface, wherein the retainer is moveable with respect to the mounting portion and wherein the retainer is able to be moved from a first position to a second position, the first position allowing the front face of the electrical unit, when retained by the retainer, to be retained recessed from the surface or flush with the surface and such that the front face of the electrical unit is accessible to a user via the aperture, and the second position allowing the front face of the electrical unit, when retained by the retainer, to at least partially protrude from the surface via the aperture to allow removal of the electrical unit from the retainer by the user.

2. A receiver as claimed in claim 1 wherein the retainer is pivotally moveable with respect to the mounting portion.

3. A receiver as claimed in claim 1 wherein the retainer is slidingly moveable with respect to the mounting portion.

4. A receiver as claimed in claim 1 wherein the retainer is slidingly and pivotally moveable with respect to the mounting portion.

5. A receiver as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the retainer is able to be moved from the first position to the second position by releasing a securer.

6. A receiver as claimed in claim 5 wherein the securer is released by actuation of a securer release.

7. A receiver as claimed in claim 5 wherein the securer is released by use of a magnet.

8. A receiver as claimed in claim 5 wherein the securer is released wirelessly.

9. A receiver as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8 wherein the retainer is biased towards the second position and moves from the first position to the second position upon releasing the securer.

10. A method of mounting an electrical unit having a front face with a user interface to a surface, the method comprising: inserting the electrical unit into a receiver as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9 such that the front face with the user interface of the electrical unit is accessible by a user.

11. A method as claimed in claim 10 further comprising moving the retainer into the first position such that the front face of the electrical unit lies flush with the surface or recessed from the surface.

12. A method of removing an electrical unit having a front face with a user interface, from a cavity behind a surface, wherein the front face of the electrical unit is flush with the surface or recessed from the surface, the method comprising: causing a retainer of a receiver as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9 retaining the electrical unit, to move from a first position in which the front face of the electrical unit is flush with the surface or recessed from the surface, to a second position in which at least a portion of the front face of the electrical unit protrudes from the surface; and removing the electrical unit from the retainer.

13. An arrangement comprising: a receiver as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9; and an electrical unit having a front face with a user interface inserted into the receiver such that the front face is accessible by a user.