Patent Publication Number: US-11651913-B1

Title: Locking device for a toggle light switch

Description:
CLAIM OF PRIORITY 
     This U.S. non-provisional utility patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. non-provisional utility patent application Ser. No. 17/168,442, filed Feb. 5, 2021. U.S. non-provisional utility patent application Ser. No. 17/168,442 claimed priority to provisional utility patent application 62/983,607, filed Feb. 29, 2020. 
     FIELD OF INVENTION 
     This invention relates to classifications for electric switches and to one or more sub-classifications for interlocking, locking, or latching mechanisms. Specifically, this invention is a locking device for a standard toggle light switch. 
     BACKGROUND OF INVENTION 
     Most switches in use today are secured in an outlet box in a wall or in a machine. In the front surface of the switch are threaded holes, which receive screws that fasten a switch plate to the switch, called hereinafter switch plate screws. These switch plate screws are inserted through holes in the switch plate. An opening or cutout is provided in the switch plate through which the actuator member of the toggle switch protrudes. A problem arises with switches which control lights in areas where the lights must be kept on, or off, for periods of time, or which control other electrical devices, such as burglar alarms and security cameras, in which the toggle switch can be accidentally operated by a person. 
     Devices for preventing switch operation have been developed using covers or open-sided members located over the actuator member of a switch and installed to a switch plate by clips or by one or more of the switch plate screws. Such devices are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,102,471, 4,363,944, 4,506,120, and U.S. Design Pat. Nos. D301,336, D301872, D351,376, and D408,018. Other devices provide an electrical switch protective cover, as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,955,702, having a movable frame hinge-attached to a stationary frame mounted to a switch plate, where the stationary frame has an opening through which the actuator member of the switch extends into an enclosed cavity of the movable frame when closed against the stationary frame. Other types of devices for preventing operation of a switch have a plate or arm member which lies against the actuator member of a switch to prevent its operation. The plate or arm is anchored to the switch plate by one or more of the switch plate screws, such as described, for example, in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,876,425, 4,468,544, 5,009,610 and 9,177,734, and U.S. Design Pat. No. D372,224. U.S. Pat. No. 5,324,897 shows a switch locking device having a one-piece locking body mounted by two screws to a switch plate with an opening receiving the switch to maintain the switch in a desired position. This patent also shows a mounted plate with a cutout to maintain the switch in a position. More complex locking devices mounted to a switch plate can be found in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,260,528 and 5,543,593. U.S. Pat. No. 6,627,816 tried to attach a part to the actuating member with no bolts, but the part works like a cover only. It will be completely loose and cannot withhold any force trying to manipulate the switch. 
     Almost all mentioned patents describe devices which require installation by attachment to a switch plate to anchor the device to either cover the actuator member or lie against the actuator member of the switch. Such devices are often not useful with switch plate designs that lack screws or features onto which the device may attach. Moreover, installation to a switch plate using tools, such as a screwdriver, increases the possible risk of electrical shock if the switch electrically shorts. For example, through the switch plate screws, due to improper installation or a damaged switch. This can result in a hazardous condition, especially where the device is of an electrically conductive material. In addition, most of the inventions above are big and bulky and will change the appearance of the environment they are in. 
     What the market really needs is a snap-on light switch lock that is secure and does not require any tools for installation. A device that is flush with the light switch and blends with the home décor. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     This summary is intended to disclose the present invention, a locking device for a toggle light switch. Embodiments of the invention are presented to illustrate and inform one skilled in the art. 
     The first embodiment of the present invention is an integral body comprised of a partial rectangular cuboid member, a planar torque arm member, and at least one planar locking member. The partial rectangular cuboid member has a top surface, exterior side surfaces, interior side surfaces, and an opening. The planar torque arm has a first end and a second end. The partial rectangular cuboid member is attached to first end of the planar torque arm member, forming an obtuse angle. 
     In this embodiment, the present invention has a single planar locking member. The planar locking member has a tapered first end. The second end of the planar locking member is attached to the second end of the planar torque arm. The planar locking member has an outer surface with protrusions. 
     The second embodiment of the present invention is an integral body comprised of a partial rectangular cuboid member, a planar torque arm member, and two planar locking members. The partial rectangular cuboid member has a top surface, exterior side surfaces, interior side surfaces, and an opening. The planar torque arm has a first end and a second end. The partial rectangular cuboid member is attached to the first end of the planar torque arm member, forming an obtuse angle. 
     In this embodiment, the present invention has two planar locking members. The two planar locking members each have a tapered first end. The two planar locking member each have a flat inner surface and an outer surface with protrusions. The second end of the first planar locking member is attached to the second end of the planar torque member. The second end of the second planar locking member is attached to the partial rectangular cuboid member, extending parallel from a side surface, disposed opposite to the first planar locking member. 
     The third embodiment of the present invention is an integral body comprised of a partial rectangular cuboid member, a pentagon-shaped locking tab extending from the partial rectangular cuboid member, a planar torque arm member, and a planar locking member. The partial rectangular cuboid member has a top surface, four exterior side surfaces, four interior side surfaces, and an opening. The planar torque arm has a first end and a second end. The partial rectangular cuboid member is attached to first end of the planar torque arm member, forming an obtuse angle. The first end of the planar torque arm member is attached to one of the exterior side surfaces at the opening. 
     In this embodiment, the present invention has a single planar locking member. The planar locking member has a tapered first end. The second end of the planar locking member is attached to the second end of the planar torque arm. The planar locking member has an outer surface with protrusions. 
     The locking tab is attached to one of the exterior side surfaces of the partial rectangular cuboid at the opening. The locking tab is attached to an exterior side surface that is adjacent to the exterior side surface to which the first end of the planar torque arm is attached. The locking tab has a pentagonal shape. The junction of the locking tab and the exterior side surface to which it is attached creates a notch. 
     By applying pressure on the exterior surfaces of the first embodiment of the present invention, the planar locking member will slide into an interstice between the switch plate and the rotary hub. The toggle of the switch will get inserted into the partial rectangular cuboid member. The protrusions on locking member will fill the interstice, preventing the rotary hub from rotating, thereby locking the toggle in place. 
     By applying pressure on the exterior surfaces of the second embodiment of the present invention, the first planar locking member will slide into an interstice between the switch plate and the rotary hub. The toggle of the switch will get inserted into the partial rectangular cuboid member. The second planar locking member will slide into an interstice between the switch plate and the switch toggle. The two planar locking members will prevent the toggle and rotary hub from moving. The protrusions on each of the locking members will fill their respective interstice. 
     By applying pressure on the exterior surfaces of the third embodiment of the present invention, the planar locking member will slide into an interstice between the switch plate and the rotary hub. The locking tab will slide into a separate interstice between the switch plate and the side of the rotary hub. The toggle of the switch will get inserted into the partial rectangular cuboid member. The protrusions on the locking member will fill the interstices, preventing the rotary hub from rotating, thereby locking the toggle in place. The notch in the locking tab will lock against the inner surface toggle switch housing. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The present invention is illustrated with 21 drawings on 8 sheets. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate various example embodiments. In the drawings: 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG.  2    is a front view of the first embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG.  3    is a side view of the first embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG.  4    is a side isolation view of a feature of the first embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG.  5    is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG.  6    is a side view of the second embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG.  7    is a side isolation of a first feature of the second embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG.  8    is a side isolation of a second feature of the second embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG.  9    is a perspective view of the first embodiment of the present invention held relative to a standard toggle light switch. 
         FIG.  10    is a perspective view of the first embodiment of the present invention mounted, in situ, to a standard toggle light switch. 
         FIG.  11    is a side view of the first embodiment of the present invention held relative to the standard toggle light switch. 
         FIG.  12    is a side view of the first embodiment of the present invention mounted, in situ, to a standard toggle light switch. 
         FIG.  13    is a perspective view of the second embodiment of the present invention mounted, in situ, to a standard toggle light switch. 
         FIG.  14    is a perspective view of the second embodiment of the present invention held relative to the standard toggle light switch. 
         FIG.  15    is a side view of the second embodiment of the present invention held relative to the standard toggle light switch. 
         FIG.  16    is a side view of the second embodiment of the present invention mounted, in situ, to a standard toggle light switch. 
         FIG.  17    is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG.  18    is a reverse perspective view of the third embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG.  19    is a side view of the third embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG.  20    is a perspective view of the third embodiment of the present invention held relative to the standard toggle light switch. 
         FIG.  21    is a perspective view of the third embodiment of the present invention mounted, in situ, to a standard toggle light switch. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The following descriptions are not meant to limit the invention, but rather to add to the summary of invention, and illustrate the present invention, a locking device for a toggle light switch. The present invention is illustrated with a variety of drawings showing the primary embodiments of the present invention, with various diagrams and figures explaining its workings. The drawings are those needed to help one skilled in the art to understand and replicate the present invention. 
     Certain terminology is used in the following description for convenience only and is not limiting. The article “a” is intended to include one or more items, and where only one item is intended the term “one” or similar language is used. To assist in the description of the present invention, words such as short, long, top, bottom, side, upper, lower, front, rear, inner, outer, right and left are used to describe the relative size and orientation of the present invention, a teether, with respect to the accompanying figures. The terminology includes the words above specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import. 
     The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers are used across the descriptions of the drawings and embodiments to refer to the same or similar elements. The embodiments of the claimed subject matter may be described, modified, and adapted, and other implementations are possible. For example, substitutions, additions, or modifications, which, perform identical functions to the embodiments disclosed, may be made to the elements illustrated in the drawings. Accordingly, the following detailed description does not limit the claimed subject matter. The proper scope of the claimed subject matter is defined by the claims contained herein. The claimed subject matter improves over the prior art by providing a locking device for a standard toggle light switch which does not need to be mounted, or require the removal of the light switch wall plate. 
       FIGS.  1 - 4  and  9 - 12    illustrate a first embodiment of the present invention  1 , an integral body comprised of a partial rectangular cuboid member  2 , a planar torque arm member  8 , and at least one planar locking member  11 . The partial rectangular cuboid member  2  has a top surface  20  (shown in  FIG.  9   ), four side surfaces  3 ,  5 ,  6  (Shown in  FIG.  1   ),  64 ,  65  (shown in  FIG.  9   ) and an opening  30 . The partial rectangular cuboid member has an exterior (e.g.,  3 ,  5 ,  6 ) and an interior (e.g.,  4 ,  7 ). The planar torque arm member  8  has a first end  81 , attached to the partial rectangular cuboid member  2  at the side surface  65 , adjacent to the opening  30  and distal to the top surface  20 ; and a second end  82 . The connection between the partial rectangular cuboid member  2  and the planar torque arm member  8  forms an obtuse angle  9 . 
     In this embodiment, the present invention  1  has a single planar locking member  11 . The planar locking member  11  has a tapered first end  12 . The second end  10  of the planar locking member  11  is attached to the second end  82  of the planar torque arm. The planar locking member  11  has an outer surface  15  with protrusions  14 . 
       FIGS.  5 - 8  and  13 - 16    illustrate a second embodiment of the present invention  101 , an integral body comprised of a partial rectangular cuboid member  122 , a planar torque arm member  8 , and two planar locking members  11  and  108 . The partial rectangular cuboid member  106  has a top surface  120  (shown in  FIG.  5   ), four side exterior surfaces  22 ,  50  (Shown in  FIG.  5   ),  121  (Shown in  FIG.  14   ),  122  (shown in  FIG.  6   ), and an opening  52 . The partial rectangular cuboid member has an exterior (e.g.,  22 ,  52 ,  121 ,  122 ) and an interior (e.g.,  106 ). The planar torque arm member  8  has a first end  81 , attached to the partial rectangular cuboid member at the side surface  121 , adjacent to the opening  52  and distal to the top surface  120 ; and a second end  82 . The connection between the partial rectangular cuboid member  122  and the planar torque arm member  66  forms an obtuse angle  9 . 
     In this embodiment, the present invention  101  has two planar locking members  11  and  108 . The first planar locking member  11  has a tapered first end  12 . The second end  10  of the first planar locking member  11  is attached to the second end  82  of the planar torque arm. The first planar locking member  11  has an outer surface  15  with protrusions  14 . The second planar locking member  108  has a tapered first end  112 . The second end  113  of second planar locking member is attached to the partial rectangular cuboid  122  by extending parallel from a side surface  50 , distal to the top surface  120  of the partial rectangular cuboid member  122 . The second planar locking member  108  has an inner surface  111  and an outer surface with protrusions  114 . 
       FIGS.  9 - 12    illustrate a first embodiment of the present invention  1 , and the standard toggle light switch  200  having a mounting body  24 , before installation (shown in  FIG.  9    and  FIG.  11   ) and after installation (shown in  FIG.  10    and  FIG.  12   ). 
     By applying pressure on the surface  16  of the present invention  1 , the single planar locking member  11  will slide into the interstice  25  at the base of the rotary hub  26 . and the switch toggle  28  gets inserted into partial rectangular cuboid member  2  through opening  30 . The protrusions  14  on locking member  11  will fill the interstice  25  at the base of the rotary hub  26  and lock the toggle  28  in place. 
       FIGS.  13 - 16    illustrate the second embodiment of the present invention  101 , and the standard toggle light switch  200  having a mounting body  24 , before installation (shown in  FIG.  9    and  FIG.  11   ) and after installation (shown in  FIG.  10    and  FIG.  12   ). 
     By applying pressure on the surface  66  and  120  the present invention  101 , the two planar locking member  11  and  108  will be positioned to lock the toggle  28  in place. The first planar locking member  11  slides into a first interstice  25  at the base of the rotary hub  26 . The second planar locking member  108  slides into a second interstice  27  near the toggle  28 . The toggle  28  gets inserted into partial rectangular cuboid member  122  through opening  52 . The protrusions  14  on locking member  11  will fill the interstice  25 . The protrusions  114  on locking member  108  will fill the interstice  27 . The toggle  28  will thus be locked the toggle in place. 
       FIGS.  17 - 21    illustrate a third embodiment of the present invention  301 , an integral body comprised of a partial rectangular cuboid member  302 , a planar torque arm member  308 , a locking tab  330  extending from a side surface  322  of the partial rectangular cuboid member  302 , and a planar locking member  311 . The partial rectangular cuboid member  302  has a top surface  320  (shown in  FIG.  21   ), four side surfaces  322 ,  329 ,  350 ,  307  and an opening  354 . The partial rectangular cuboid member has an exterior (e.g.,  322 ,  329 ,  350 ,  320 ) and an interior (e.g.,  307 ). The planar torque arm member  308  has a first end  355 , attached to the partial rectangular cuboid member  302  at the side surface  307 , adjacent to the opening  354  and distal to the top surface  320 ; and a second end  382 . The connection between the partial rectangular cuboid member  302  and the planar torque arm member  308  forms an obtuse angle  309 . 
     In this embodiment, the present invention  301  has a single planar locking member  311 . The planar locking member  311  has a tapered first end  312 . The second end  310  of the planar locking member  311  is attached to the second end  382  of the planar torque arm. The planar locking member  311  has an outer surface with protrusions  314 . 
     The locking tab  330  is pentagon-shaped. The locking tab  330  joins the side surface  322  of the partial rectangular cuboid member  302  at a junction  381 , which forms a notch  331 . 
       FIGS.  20 - 21    illustrate the third embodiment of the present invention  301  being attached to a standard toggle light switch  200  having a mounting body  24 , before installation (shown in  FIG.  20   ) and after installation (shown in  FIG.  21   ). 
     By applying pressure on the surface  308  of the planar torque arm member  308  of the present invention  301 , the single planar locking member  311  will slide into the interstice  25  at the base of the rotary hub  26 . The switch toggle  28  inserts into the partial rectangular cuboid member  302  through the opening  354 . The protrusions  314  on locking member  311  fill the interstice  25  at the base of the rotary hub  26  and lock the toggle  28  in place. The locking tab  330  inserts into another interstice  21  at the side of the rotary hub  26 . When fully inserted, the notch  331  of the locking tab  330  will lock against the toggle switch housing  29 . 
     The first  1 , second  101 , and third  301  embodiments of the current invention  1 ,  101 ,  301  have an integral body that can be fabricated from at least one of polyvinyl chloride (“PVC”), polypropylene (“PP”), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (“ABS”), polycarbonate (“PC”), nylon, high-density polyethylene (“HDPE”), low-density polyethylene (“LDPE”), polyethylene terephthalate (“PET”) and a thermoplastic elastomer (“TPE”). 
     Embodiments described above with reference to functions or acts, comprise methods. The functions/acts noted above may occur out of the order as shown or described. For example, two functions/acts shown or described in succession may in fact be executed substantially concurrently or the functions/acts may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality/acts involved. While certain embodiments have been described, other embodiments may exist. Further, the disclosed methods&#39; functions/acts may be modified in any manner, including by reordering functions/acts and/or inserting or deleting functions/acts, without departing from the spirit of the claimed subject matter. 
     Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features and/or methodological acts, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features or acts described above. Rather, the specific features and acts described above are disclosed as example forms of implementing the claims.