Patent Publication Number: US-6909060-B1

Title: Cover for electrical switch

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   This application is a divisional application of a divisional application by Shotey, et al. entitled “COVER FOR ELECTRICAL SWITCH”, Ser. No. 10/055,123, filed Jan. 22, 2002 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,586,694; which is a divisional of application by Shotey, et al. entitled “COVER FOR ELECTRICAL SWITCH”, Ser. No. 09/479,805, filed Jan. 8, 2000 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,384,354, which is incorporated herein by reference. 

   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   1. Field of the Invention 
   The present invention relates generally to electrical switches for switching electrical appliances such as lights, fans, etc. on and off and, more specifically, to covers for electrical switches. 
   2. Description of the Related Art 
   Electrical switches such has those used in residential and commercial buildings to turn on and off lights, fans, etc. have been used for years and have undergone relative few design changes. Although various designs have been used in the past, two of such designs, i.e., the toggle switch and the rocker switch, are the most common. 
   In a standard toggle switch design, the switch includes a switch handle or toggle (i.e., an actuator) physically connected to a switching mechanism. The switch handle and switching mechanism are mounted to a yoke or backing plate. The switch handle and correspondingly the switching mechanism have two positions, i.e., an “on” position and an “off” position. When the handle is placed in or moved to the “on” position, contacts within the switching mechanism close to pass current and thereby cause the appliance to actuate. When the handle is toggled or moved to the “off” position, the contacts associated with the “on” position are opened, thereby turning off the appliance. 
   A rocker switch differs from a toggle switch primarily in the size and shape of the switch handle, and its path of movement. Whereas the switch handle of a toggle switch generally is thin and rectangular, typically measuring about 0.5 inches on a side and less than one inch long, a rocker switch typically includes two flat planes which join at a center or axial line. The planes typically are about one inch wide (along the axis), and each plane generally is about 1 to 1.25 inches long (perpendicular to the axis). The rocker portion of the switch thus is typically about 1 inch wide by about 2 to 2.5 inches long. The rocker is movably housed in a rectangular housing which generally comprises part of the backing plate or yoke. 
   Both toggle switches and rocker switches have been limited in some applications and for some users in that the size of the toggle or the rocker portion of the switch is too small. They also do not stand out far from the wall, which in some instances is disadvantageous. Moreover, in some instances the toggle or the rocker switch portion become marred, damaged, stained, or the like. Similarly, it may be desirable to change the color or appearance of the toggle or rocker switch portion, perhaps throughout a home or building. This can be relatively burdensome in that the individual electrical switches typically would have to be purchased, the old switches removed, including electrical disconnection, and the new ones installed. This can be time consuming and expensive. 
   OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION 
   Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a cover for an electrical switch that can effectively cover up an existing electrical switch, and can enlarge the size of the switch handle, e.g., the toggle or rocker portion of the switch. 
   Another object of the invention is to provide a cover for an electrical switch that affords a cost-effective means to change the appearance of an existing electrical switch. 
   Additional objects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by means of the instrumentalities and combinations pointed out in the appended claims. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   To achieve the foregoing objects, and in accordance with the purposes of the invention as embodied and broadly described in this document, a cover is provided for an electrical switch. The electrical switch comprises a yoke and a switch handle. The cover comprises a handle cover sized and shaped to substantially conform to, and fit over, the switch handle. The handle cover has rotation points disposed parallel to an axis and includes two planar surfaces, wherein each of the planar surfaces is parallel to and passes through the axis. The planar surfaces preferably lie in different planes. The cover plate according to this aspect of the invention has a switch handle aperture for receiving the handle cover. The cover plate includes contact points for receiving the rotation points in movable relation. Preferably, the rotation points comprise axles, and the contact points comprise bearings or axle bearings for rotatably receiving the axles. 
   The cover plate preferably includes a front surface that extends outwardly from the electrical switch. In some embodiments, the front surface includes at least one mounting aperture. Preferably the front surface is free of apertures other than the handle cover aperture and the at least one mounting aperture. In the presently preferred embodiments, the front surface of the cover plate in areas other than the handle cover aperture and the at least one mounting aperture is continuous and has uniform topography, and the cover plate is a single, solid component except for the blade apertures and the at least one mounting aperture. 
   According to an option for the invention, the handle cover includes a pair of longitudinal ends, the cover plate includes a back surface, and the back surface includes at least one guide for contacting one of the longitudinal ends to guide the handle cover during movement. 
   In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a cover for an electrical switch is provided. The cover comprises a handle cover assembly including a handle cover member sized and shaped to substantially conform to and fit over the switch handle and a face member in which the handle cover member is slidably disposed. The handle cover member includes a handle cover that forms a cavity for receiving the switch handle. The electrical switch cover according to this embodiment also includes a cover plate having a handle cover aperture for receiving the handle cover assembly. 
   In a preferred embodiment according to this aspect of the invention, the handle cover member includes a slide plate fixedly coupled to the handle cover. The face member preferably has a substantially rectangular face area, and may include at least one post for aligning the cover with the electrical switch. In some embodiments, the face member may include a yoke extension or, preferably, two such yoke extensions. 
   The cover plate includes a front surface which extends outwardly from the electrical switch. Preferably the front surface includes at least one mounting aperture, and the front surface is free of apertures other than the handle cover aperture and the at least one mounting aperture. Again, preferably, the front surface of the cover plate in areas other than the handle cover aperture and the at least one mounting aperture is continuous and has uniform topography, and the cover plate is a single, solid component except for the blade apertures and the at least one mounting aperture. 
   In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a cover is provided for an electrical switch, wherein the electrical switch includes a yoke and a switch handle. The cover comprises a handle cover sized and shaped to substantially conform to and fit over the switch handle. The handle cover includes a handle cover cavity for receiving the switch handle. The handle cover also preferably includes a slide plate fixedly coupled to the handle cover. 
   The cover also includes a cover plate having a handle cover aperture for slidably receiving the handle cover. Preferably but optionally, the cover plate includes a front surface that extends outwardly from the electrical switch, the front surface includes at least one mounting aperture, and the front surface is free of apertures other than the handle cover aperture and the at least one mounting aperture. In some embodiments, the front surface of the cover plate in areas other than the handle cover aperture and the at least one mounting aperture is continuous and has uniform topography. Preferably the cover plate is a single, solid component except for the handle cover aperture and the at least one mounting aperture. 
   In accordance with still another aspect of the invention, a cover is provided for an electrical switch, wherein the electrical switch includes a yoke and a switch handle. The cover according to this aspect of the invention comprises a handle cover sized and shaped to substantially conform to and fit over the switch handle. The handle cover includes a handle cover cavity for receiving the switch handle. The cover also includes a cover plate having a handle cover aperture for slidably receiving the handle cover. 
   Preferably, the handle cover includes a slide plate fixedly coupled to the handle cover. Also preferably, the cover plate includes a front surface that extends outwardly from the electrical switch, the front surface includes at least one mounting aperture, and the front surface is free of apertures other than the handle cover aperture and the at least one mounting aperture. In the presently preferred embodiments, the front surface of the cover plate in areas other than the handle cover aperture and the at least one mounting aperture is continuous and has uniform topography, and the cover plate is a single, solid component except for the handle cover aperture and the at least one mounting aperture. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate presently preferred embodiments of the invention and, together with the general description given above and the detailed description of the preferred embodiments given below, serve to explain the principles of the invention. 
     FIG. 1 is an expanded or exploded perspective view of an electrical switch cover according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention, which involves a rocker switch type design; 
     FIG. 2 shows a front view of the electrical switch cover of FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the yoke to which the electrical switch cover of FIG. 1 is applied; 
     FIG. 4 shows a front view of the yoke of FIG. 3; 
     FIG. 5 shows a side view of the yoke of FIG. 3, wherein the switch handle is in a first or “on” position; 
     FIG. 6 shows a side view of the yoke of FIG. 3 as shown in FIG. 5, but wherein the switch handle is in a second or “off” position; 
     FIG. 7 shows a side view of the cover of FIG. 1, wherein the switch handle cover is in the first or “on” position; 
     FIG. 8 shows a side view of the cover of FIG. 1 as shown in FIG. 7, but wherein the switch handle cover is in the second or “off” position; 
     FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the switch handle cover plate for the switch cover shown in FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 10 shows a front view of the switch handle cover of FIG. 9; 
     FIG. 11 shows a back perspective view of the switch handle cover of FIG. 9; 
     FIG. 12 shows a back view of the switch handle cover shown in FIG. 9; 
     FIG. 13 shows a side view of the switch handle cover shown in FIG. 9; 
     FIG. 14 shows an end view of the switch handle cover plate shown in FIG. 9; 
     FIG. 15 shows a perspective view of the cover plate of the switch cover shown in FIG. 1; 
     FIG. 16 shows a front view of the cover plate shown in FIG. 15; 
     FIG. 17 shows a back or rear perspective view of the cover plate of FIG. 15; 
     FIG. 18 shows a back view of the cover plate of FIG. 15; 
     FIG. 19 shows a side view of the cover plate of FIG. 15; 
     FIG. 20 shows a side cutaway view of the cover plate of FIG. 15, taken along line  20 — 20  of FIG. 16; 
     FIG. 21 shows an end view of the cover plate of FIG. 15; 
     FIG. 22 shows a cutaway view of the cover plate of FIG. 15, taken along line  22 — 22  of FIG. 18; 
     FIG. 23 shows an expanded or exploded perspective view of an electrical switch cover according to a second preferred embodiment of the invention, which involves an electrical switch cover for a toggle-type electrical switch; 
     FIG. 24 shows a front view of the electrical switch cover of FIG.B  23 ; 
     FIG. 25 shows a front perspective view of the handle cover assembly of the electrical switch cover shown in FIG. 23; 
     FIG. 26 shows a front view of the handle cover assembly of FIG. 25; 
     FIG. 27 shows a back or rear perspective view of the handle cover assembly shown in FIG. 25; 
     FIG. 28 shows a rear view of the handle cover assembly shown in FIG. 25; 
     FIG. 29 shows a side view of the handle cover assembly shown in FIG. 25, wherein the switch handle cover is in a first or “on” position; 
     FIG. 30 shows a side view of the handle cover assembly shown in FIG. 25 as shown in FIG. 29, but wherein the switch handle cover is in a second or “off” position; 
     FIG. 31 shows a side cutaway view of the switch handle cover assembly of FIG. 25, taken along line  31 — 31  shown in FIG. 26, 
     FIG. 32 shows an end view of the handle cover assembly shown in FIG. 25; 
     FIG. 33 shows an end cutaway view of the switch handle cover assembly of FIG. 25, taken along line  33 — 33  as shown in FIG. 28; 
     FIG. 34 shows a front perspective view of the cover plate of the switch cover shown in FIG. 23; 
     FIG. 35 shows a front view of the cover plate shown in FIG. 34; 
     FIG. 36 shows a back or rear perspective view of the cover plate shown in FIG. 34; 
     FIG. 37 shows a back or rear view of the cover plate shown in FIG. 34; 
     FIG. 38 shows a side view of the cover plate shown in FIG. 34; 
     FIG. 39 shows a side cutaway view of the cover plate shown in FIG. 34, taken along line  39 — 39  as shown in FIG. 35; 
     FIG. 40 shows an end view of the cover plate shown in FIG.34; 
     FIG. 41 shows an end cutaway view of the cover plate shown in FIG. 34, taken along line  41 — 41  as shown in FIG. 37; 
     FIG. 42 shows a front perspective view of an electrical switch cover according to a third preferred embodiment of the invention, which involves a cover for a toggle-type electrical switch; 
     FIG. 43 is an expanded or exploded front perspective view of the cover of FIG. 42; 
     FIG. 44 shows a front view of the cover of FIG. 42; 
     FIG. 45 shows a back perspective view of the cover shown in FIG. 42; 
     FIG. 46 shows a back view of the cover shown in FIG. 42; 
     FIG. 47 shows a side view of the cover shown in FIG. 42; 
     FIG. 48 shows a side cutaway view of the cover of FIG. 42, taken along line  48 — 48  in FIG. 46; 
     FIG. 49 shows an end view of the cover of FIG. 42; 
     FIG. 50 shows an end cutaway view of the cover of FIG. 42, taken along line  50 — 50  in FIG. 46; 
     FIG. 51 shows a front perspective view of the handle cover for the cover of FIG. 42; 
     FIG. 52 shows a front view of the handle cover of FIG. 51; 
     FIG. 53 shows a rear perspective view of the cover handle of FIG. 51; 
     FIG. 54 shows a rear view of the cover handle of FIG. 51; 
     FIG. 55 shows a side view of the cover handle of FIG. 51; 
     FIG. 56 shows an end view of the cover handle of FIG. 51; 
     FIG. 57 shows a front perspective view of the cover plate for the cover of FIG. 42; 
     FIG. 58 shows a front view of the cover plate of FIG. 57; 
     FIG. 59 shows a rear perspective view of the cover plate of FIG. 57; 
     FIG. 60 shows a rear view of the cover plate of FIG. 57; 
     FIG. 61 shows a side view of the cover plate of FIG. 57; 
     FIG. 62 shows a cutaway side view of the cover plate of FIG. 57, taken along  62 — 62  of FIG. 60; 
     FIG. 63 shows an end view of the cover plate of FIG. 57; 
     FIG. 64 shows an end cutaway view of the cover plate of FIG. 57, taken along lines  64 — 64  of FIG. 60; 
     FIG. 65 shows a front perspective view of a cover plate in accordance with a fourth preferred embodiment of the invention; 
     FIG. 66 shows a front view of the cover plate of FIG. 65; 
     FIG. 67 shows a rear perspective view of the cover of FIG. 65; 
     FIG. 68 shows a rear view of the cover plate of FIG. 65; 
     FIG. 69 shows a side view of the cover plate shown in FIG. 65; 
     FIG. 70 shows a side cutaway view of the cover plate of FIG. 65, taken along lines  70 — 70  of FIG. 68; 
     FIG. 71 shows an end view of the cover plate of FIG. 65; and 
     FIG. 72 shows an end cutaway view of the cover plate of FIG. 65, taken along lines  72 — 72  of FIG. 68. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
   Reference will now be made in detail to the presently preferred embodiments of the invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the drawings. It should be noted, however, that the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details, representative devices, and illustrative examples shown and described in this section in connection with the preferred embodiments. 
   In accordance with the invention, a cover is provided for an electrical switch. The electrical switch includes a yoke and a switch handle. For purposes of this aspect of the invention, the preferred form of electrical switch is the so-called rocker switch design. In accordance with this aspect of the invention, the electrical switch includes a handle cover sized and shaped to substantially conform to and fit over the switch handle of the electrical switch. The handle cover has rotation points disposed parallel to an axis. The switch also includes two planar surfaces, and each of the planar surfaces is parallel to and passes through the axis. 
   An electrical switch cover  10  according to a first preferred embodiment of the invention is shown in FIGS. 1, 2 and 7 through 22. FIG. 1 shows a front perspective view in expanded or exploded form. 
   Electrical switch cover  10  is adapted to be fitted to an electrical switch  12  which includes a yoke  14  and a switch handle  16  of the rocker type. An example of a rocker-style electrical switch for which this embodiment of the invention is well suited to cover is shown in FIG. 1, and separately in FIGS. 3-6. Rocker switch  12  as shown in these drawing figures and as further described below is representative of the types of rocker switches which the cover according to the first preferred embodiment is adapted to cover, but is merely illustrative of such rocker switch designs. The details of its design are not necessarily intended to be limiting as they relate to the invention. 
   Switch  12  with yoke  14  and switch handle  16  are shown are shown separately in FIGS. 3-6. Yoke  14  includes a pair of mounting screw holes  18  at each of its longitudinal ends for mounting switch  12  to a wall box (not shown), and a single mounting screw hole  20  at each such end for mounting a cover plate to the switch. 
   Switch handle  16  includes two flat planar surfaces  16   a  and  16   b  which join at a center or axial line A. The planes are about  1{fraction (1/16)} inches wide (along axis A). Each plane is about    1{fraction (3/16)} inches long along a longitudinal axis L, so that switch handle 16 of switch 12 is about    1{fraction (1/16)} inches wide by about    2⅜ inches long. Switch handle 16 is movably housed in a rectangular housing 22 which generally comprises part of the backing plate or yoke 14. Rectangular housing 22 also includes a rectangular lip extending along a periphery of switch handle 16 in a surrounding relation, as shown in FIG.  1. Switch handle  16  is biased so that it can alternately assume one of two positions. In the first position, illustrated in FIG. 5, switch handle  16  is depressed at the bottom (plane  16   b ) and extends outwardly at the top (plane  16   a ). This corresponds to the “on” position for switch  12 . In the second position, illustrated in FIG. 6, switch handle  16  is depressed at the top (plane  16   a ) and extends outwardly at the bottom (plane  16   b ). This corresponds to the “off” position for the switch  12 . 
   Typically such rocker switch would be covered by a cover plate (not shown), but such cover plate would be removed prior to covering the remainder of the switch with the cover assembly of this embodiment. 
   With reference to FIG. 1, cover  10  includes a switch handle cover  24  and a cover plate  26 . FIG. 7 shows a side view of cover  10  with handle cover  24  in a first or “on” position corresponding to the first or “on” position of switch  12  (FIG. 5). Similarly, FIG. 8 shows cover  10  with handle cover  24  in a second or “off” position different from the first position, in this instance, corresponding to the second of “off” position of switch  12  (FIG. 6). Cover  10 , i.e., the assembly of handle cover  24  and cover plate  26 , is substantially the same size as or slightly larger than cover plates generally available in the commercial market place. Cover  10  according to this embodiment measures about 4.75 inches long (along longitudinal axis L) by 3 inches wide (perpendicular to axis L along the plane of cover  10 , corresponding to the drawing sheet in FIG. 2). 
   FIGS. 9 through 14 show various views of handle cover  24 . FIG. 9 shows a front perspective view, FIG. 10 shows a front elevational view, FIG. 11 shows a rear perspective view, FIG. 12 shows a rear elevational view, FIG. 13 shows a side view or left), and FIG. 14 shows a top or bottom view. 
   The handle cover is adapted to cover the handle of the switch. The handle cover preferably conforms, at least generally, to the shape of the underlying switch cover, although variations are possible and even preferred in some instances. Handle cover  24  according to this embodiment has outside measurements of about  2⅞ inches in length by about    1½ inches in width by about {fraction ( 5/16)} inches maximum depth. 
   Handle cover  24  on its outer surface includes two planar surfaces  24   a  and  24   b  corresponding respectively to planar surfaces  16   a  and  16   b  of switch handle  16 . An axial line A′ corresponding to axis A divides plane  24   a  from plane  24   b . Each plane  24   a  and  24   b  measures about  1⅜ inches longitudinally by about    1{fraction (7/16)} inches in width. Planes 24   a  and  24   b  are not coplanar, but instead are angled with respect to one another at about the same angle as is encountered for planes  16   a  and  16   b  of switch handle  16 , which generally is between about 7 to 10 degrees. In the preferred embodiment, planes  24   a  and  24   b  are angled at about 8 degrees with respect to one another. 
   Handle cover  24  includes a cavity  28  on its back side for receiving and generally mating with switch handle  16 . Cavity  28  has internal dimensions of about  2{fraction (11/16)} inches by about    1{fraction (5/16)} inches. Cavity 28 has a maximum depth (at the longitudinal ends) of about {fraction ( 1/4)} inches, and a minimum depth (at axis A′) of about ⅛ inch. 
   Handle cover  24  is rotatably mounted to cover plate on the back side of cover plate by suitable rotation points. Rotation points as the term is used herein refers to means for securing the handle cover to the cover plate so that the handle cover can move or rotate in general relation with the movement of the underlying switch handle, which in this embodiment involves a rotating movement. In this embodiment, the rotation points comprise a pair of collinear axles  30 , one on each side of handle cover  24  at their midpoints. The cooperation of these axles with cover plate  26  will be described below. This arrangement permits handle cover  24  to rotate or toggle from the first or “on” position to the second or “off” position and vice versa. 
   Cover plate  26 , shown separately in FIGS. 15-22, includes a substantially-rectangular aperture  32  into which handle cover  24  fits. Aperture  32  is slightly larger than the length and width dimensions of handle cover  24 . When handle cover  24  is attached to cover plate  26  as shown in FIGS. 2, 7 and 8, the non-elevated one of planes  24   a  and  24   b  is substantially even with the adjoining portion of outer surface  26   a  of cover plate  26  so that the non-elevated plane ( 24   a  or  24   b ) at aperture  32  forms a substantially smooth, uniform-textured surface including outer surface  26   a  of cover plate  26  and the non-elevated plane ( 24   a  or  24   b ). A small ridge  34  optionally may be provided at the peripheral edge of aperture  32 , for example, to facilitate seating and guiding of the side portions of handle cover  24 . Although there may be a visible seam between cover plate  26  and handle cover  24  at aperture  32 , this seam is not pronounced. Cover plate  26  and the non-elevated plane ( 24   a  or  24   b ) of handle cover  24  according to this embodiment thus are mated to create a substantially smooth and substantially continuous surface, with the exception of the seam at aperture and ridge  34 , if used. 
   Cover plate  26  may include mounting screw apertures  36 , in addition to aperture  32 . Mounting screw apertures  36  are positioned and sized to align and cooperate with yoke mounting screw apertures  20 . In accordance with this preferred embodiment, however, other than mounting screw apertures  36  and the rectangular aperture  32  for handle cover  24 , cover plate  26  is substantially continuous, and has uniform, preferably smooth or lightly-textured topography. A number of surface geometries are possible for cover plate  26 . The back surface  26   b  of cover plate  26  preferably is rounded or curved, so it can easily cover and house the outer portion of the electrical switch to be covered (not shown). Front surface  26   a  preferably has a gently curved profile as well, although many other designs and geometries may be suitable, depending upon the application. In accordance with this preferred embodiment, outer surface  26   a  of cover plate  26  preferably has rounded or curved profiles at the peripheral edges, and is otherwise free of any surface discontinuities, such as indentations, projections, and the like. 
   Cover plate  26  includes contact points for receiving the rotation points in movable relation. Contact points as the term is used herein refers generally to means which operate in conjunction with the rotation points to permit the desired movement of the handle cover in cooperation with the switch handle. The rotation points and contacts points may comprise, for example, an axle and housing or bearing arrangement, a pin and seat arrangement, etc. In this preferred embodiment, the contact points comprise a pair of bearings  38  disposed on the longitudinal sides of aperture  32  approximately at their midpoints. Each bearing  38  includes a stanchion and a bearing surface, the latter of which receives the axle  30  in rotatable relation. 
   Preferably, the back surface of the cover plate includes at least one guide for contacting one of the longitudinal ends to guide the handle cover during movement. In this embodiment, a pair of stanchions  40  are provided approximately at the center of the width dimension within aperture  32 , one at the top and one at the bottom, to serve as guides for the outer or longitudinal ends of handle cover  24 . 
   Cover  10  may be installed on electrical switch  12  in the following manner. If there is a cover plate (not shown) originally on switch  12 , it is removed in known manner. Handle cover  24  then is positioned into cover plate  26  so that axles  30  are positioned in bearings  38  and handle cover  24  fits into aperture  32  as shown in FIG. 1. Cover  10 , with handle cover  24  matted with cover plate  26 , then is attached to switch  12  by passing screws (not shown) through apertures  36  of cover plate  26  and into threaded apertures  18  in switch  12 . 
   Cover  10  operates in conjunction with switch  12  in the following manner. Handle cover  24  loosely contains switch handle  16 . Assuming switch handle  16  and handle cover  24  are in the first or “on” position, one merely depresses plane  16   b  of handle cover  24  as one would do with switch  16  if used by itself. This causes handle cover  24  and switch handle  16  to move to the second or “off” position. 
   Cover  10  is advantageous, for example, in that it serves to enlarge somewhat the effective size of the switch handle, and in that it covers the original switch and switch handle for cosmetic and other reasons while working in cooperation with the original switch and handle to preserve its operating characteristics and functionality. This can provide substantial time and costs savings when replacing switches throughout an entire house or building. 
   In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a cover is provided for an electrical switch which, as with electrical switch  12 , includes a yoke and a switch handle, preferably a toggle-type switch handle. The cover according to this aspect of the invention comprises a handle cover assembly including a handle cover member sized and shaped to substantially conform to and fit over the switch handle, and a face member in which the handle cover member is slidably disposed. The handle cover member includes a handle cover which forms a cavity for receiving the switch handle. The cover further includes a cover plate having a handle cover aperture for receiving the handle cover assembly. 
   A cover  110  according to a preferred embodiment of this aspect of the invention is depicted in FIGS. 23-41. In this embodiment, the cover is ideally suited for use in covering a commercially-known toggle switch, such as switch  112  as shown in FIG. 23. Switch  112  includes a yoke  114  and a switch handle  116 . Yoke mounting screw apertures  118  and  120  are provided in the same manner as apertures  18  and  20  in the first preferred embodiment described above. 
   In accordance with this embodiment, cover  110  includes a handle cover assembly  124  and a cover plate  126 . Various views of the handle cover assembly and its components are shown in FIGS. 25-33. Handle cover assembly  124  includes a handle cover member  150  and a face member  152 . Handle cover assembly  124  serves essentially the same functions as handle cover  24  of the first embodiment, for example, to cover the switch handle while generally conforming to it in shape and size and while accommodating the movement of the switch handle, although the specific manner in which this is done varies somewhat to accommodate the differences in design and operation of the toggle-type switch as opposed to the rocker-type switch. Accordingly, handle cover member  150  is sized and shaped to substantially conform to and fit over switch handle  116 . 
   As noted, handle cover assembly  124  in this embodiment includes two components, i.e., a handle cover member  150  and a face member  152 . Handle cover member  150  is slidably disposed within face member  152 . 
   Handle cover member  150  includes a handle cover box  154  which forms a cavity  156  for receiving switch handle  116 . Handle cover member  150  also includes a slide plate  158  which is integral with handle cover box. The outside of handle cover  154  measures about ⅝ inches long by ⅜ inches wide by ½ inches deep (to slide plate  158 ). Slide plate measures about 2 inches long by ⅞ inches wide. Both the front surface  158   a  and the back surface  158   b  of slide plate  158  are substantially flat. 
   Handle cover member  150  is disposed to movably mate with face member  152  and slide along the longitudinal dimension L from the first position (FIG. 29) to the second position (FIG. 30). 
   Face member  152  includes a substantially rectangular face plane  160 , a substantially rectangular back plane  162 , a peripheral flange  164 , and a yoke extension  166 . Face plane  160  comprises a substantially planar surface which substantially mates with front surface  126   a  of cover plate  126 . Back plane  162  lies opposite face plane  160 . Back plane includes a pair of guides  168  with securing flanges which are coupled to and extend outwardly from guides  168 . Peripheral flange  164  extends around the outside of face plane  160 , and includes a ridge  172  for mating with cover plate  126  as described in greater detail below. 
   At least one post, in this embodiment two posts  174 , are provided on and extending from back plane  162  for aligning cover  110  with electrical switch  112 . Yoke extension  166  extends longitudinally from peripheral flange  164  and includes a first pair of mounting screw apertures  176  for receiving mounting screws for attaching handle cover assembly  150  to aperture  118  switch  112 , and a second pair of mounting screw apertures  118  are provided for securing cover plate  126  to handle cover assembly  124  (see, e.g., FIG. 23). 
   Handle cover assembly overall measures approximately 4.125 inches longitudinally and about 1.5 inches in width. Face member  152 , and more specifically elevated, substantially rectangular face plane  160 , measures about  2⅝ inches long by    1¼ inches wide. Face plane 160 is elevated about {fraction ( 1/4)} inch above peripheral flange  164 , which extends around face plane  160 . Peripheral flange  164  extends outwardly in the length and width dimensions about ⅛ inch relative to the outer or peripheral edge  160   a  of face plane  160 . Yoke extension  166  extends outwardly in the longitudinal dimension L from each end of peripheral flange about ¾ inches. 
   Slide plate  158  of handle cover member  150  measures about 2 inches long by ⅞ inches wide. Guides  168  are parallel to one another and are spaced from one another slightly further than the width of slide plate  158  so that slide plate  158  is secured by, but moves longitudinally within, guides  168  on back plane  162 . Guides  168  thus slidably receive, retain and guide handle cover member  150 , and more particularly the peripheral longitudinal edges  158   a  and  158   b  of slide plate  158 . 
   Cover plate  126  includes a front surface  126   a  which extends outwardly from electrical switch  112 . Front surface  126   a  includes a substantially rectangular aperture  132  with a ridge  134  at its periphery. At least one mounting aperture, in this case two mounting screw apertures  136 , extend through cover plate  126 . In this preferred embodiment, front surface  126   a  is free of apertures other than handle cover aperture  132  and the at least one mounting aperture, here apertures  136 . In this embodiment, front surface  126   a  of cover plate  126  in areas other than handle cover member aperture  132  and the at least one mounting aperture is continuous and has uniform topography. Preferably, cover plate  126  is a single, solid component except for handle cover aperture  132  and the at least one mounting aperture, here apertures  136 . 
   In this embodiment, handle cover aperture  132  is slightly larger than the length and width dimensions of face plane  160 , and it is slightly less in depth dimension relative to the depth dimension of peripheral flange  164 , so that face plane  160  fits into and mates with aperture  132  to form a snug fit, and to form a substantially smooth, uniform-textured surface including the outer or front surface  126   a  of cover plate  126  and face plane  160 . Although there is a visible seam between cover plate  126  and face plane  160  at aperture  132 , this seam is not pronounced. Cover plate  126  and face plane  160  in this preferred embodiment thus are mated to create a substantially smooth and substantially continuous surface, with the exception of seam at aperture  132 . 
   A number of surface geometries are possible for cover plate  126  and face plane  160 . The back surface  126   b  of cover plate preferably is rounded or curved, so it can easily cover and house the outer portion of electrical switch  112 . The outer or front surface  126   a  of cover plate  126  may assume a number of different geometries. In accordance with this preferred embodiment, outer surface  126   a  preferably has rounded or curved profiles at the peripheral edges, and is otherwise free of any surface discontinuities, such as indentations, projections, and the like. 
   Cover  110  may be installed on electrical switch  112  in the following manner. Any cover plate (not shown) originally on switch  112  is removed in known manner. Handle cover assembly  124  then is attached to electrical switch  112  as shown in FIG. 23 by passing screws through apertures  176  of handle cover assembly  124  and into apertures  118  of switch  112 . Cover plate  126  then is attached to handle cover assembly  124  by passing screws through apertures  136  of cover plate  126  and into threaded apertures  118  in handle-cover assembly. 
   Cover  110  operates in conjunction with switch  110  in the following manner. Handle cover box  154  loosely contains switch handle  116 . Assuming switch handle  116  and handle cover box  154  are in the first or “on” position, one merely moves handle cover box  154  downwardly as one would do with switch  116  if used by itself. This causes handle cover box  154  and switch handle  116  to move downwardly to the second or “off” position by moving slide plate  158  downward longitudinally along guides  168 . Movement of slide plate  158  is stopped at the second or “off” position by the abutment of the longitudinal end of slide plate  158  against the interior portion of peripheral flange  164  at the longitudinal end of back plane  162 . 
   In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a cover is provided for an electrical switch. The electrical switch includes a yoke and a switch handle, as described above. In the preferred implementation, the switch handle comprises a toggle-type device. 
   In accordance with this aspect of the invention, the cover comprises a handle cover sized and shaped to substantially conform to and fit over the switch handle. The handle cover includes a handle cover cavity for receiving the switch handle. 
   A cover  200  according to a presently preferred embodiment of this aspect of the invention is shown in FIG. 42. Cover  200  is shown in expanded or exploded view in FIG. 43. Cover  200  is adapted to cover a toggle-type switch, such as switch  112 , having a switch handle  116 . Cover  200  includes a handle cover  202  sized and shaped to substantially conform to and fit over switch handle  116 . Handle cover  202  includes a handle cover cavity  204  into which switch handle  116  can be inserted. Handle cover cavity  204  is formed by a handle cover box  205 . Handle cover  202  on its outer surface includes a slide surface  206  comprising two attached or integrally formed, substantially parallel rails, and on its inner or back surface includes a slide surface  207 , also comprising a pair of substantially parallel rails. 
   Further in accordance with this aspect of the invention, the cover includes a cover plate having a handle cover aperture for slidably receiving the handle cover. As implemented in the preferred embodiment, cover  200  includes a cover plate  208 . Cover plate  208  includes a front surface  210  that extends outwardly from electrical switch  112 . Front surface  210  includes at least one mounting aperture  212  (here there are two such apertures) for mounting cover plate  208  to electrical switch  112 , and a handle cover aperture  214 . Front surface  210  is free of apertures other than handle cover aperture  214  and mounting apertures  212 . In this illustrative but preferred embodiment, front surface  210  of cover plate  208  in areas other than handle cover aperture  214  and mounting apertures  212  is continuous and has uniform topography. Moreover, cover plate  208  is a single, solid component except for handle cover aperture  214  and mounting apertures  212 . 
   Cover plate  208  includes a back surface  216  opposite front surface  210 . Back surface  216  includes a handle cover housing channel  217 , which in turn includes a slide surface  218 . A series of tabs  220  are provided at the periphery of channel  217  and slide surface  218 . When handle cover  202  is mated with cover plate  208 , as generally shown in FIGS. 42 through  50 , handle cover  202  resides in handle cover housing channel  217  so that handle cover box  205  extends through handle cover aperture  214  and is movable or slidable within it along longitudinal axis L. Slide surface  206  of handle cover  202  contacts slide surface  218  of cover plate  208  in sliding relation along longitudinal axis L. Cover plate tabs  220  loosely contact back peripheral edge  207  of handle cover  202  to permit handle cover  202  to slide longitudinally but while retaining handle cover  202  in mating relation with cover plate  208  and in channel  217  between stops  222 . 
   Cover  200  may be installed on electrical switch  112  essentially in the same manner as that described above for cover  110 . In operation, cover  200  would be attached to electrical switch  112  as generally shown in FIG. 43 in exploded view, and as in FIGS. 42 and 44 through 50 in fully assembled form. As one moves handle cover box  205  between its upward and downward longitudinal positions, switch handle  116  of electrical switch  112  is correspondingly moved or toggled between its upward and downward longitudinal positions to activate and deactivate the switch. 
   The illustrative design of cover  200  provides the same advantages as cover  110 , as noted above. Cover  200  affords an additional potential advantage in that it comprises fewer parts than cover  110 , and therefore may be manufactured and used more cost effectively. 
   The design of cover plate  208  is not necessarily limiting, and other cover plate designs are possible. For example, a cover plate  230  includes a front surface  232 , mounting apertures  234 , and a handle cover aperture  236 . Other than handle cover aperture  236  and mounting apertures  234 , front surface  232  of cover plate  230  is continuous and has uniform topography. Cover plate  230  comprises a single, solid component except for these apertures. Cover plate  230  is adapted to be used with handle cover  202 , as shown in FIGS. 51 through 56. Accordingly, handle cover aperture  236  is sized and configured to receive handle cover box  205 . Cover plate  230  has a back surface  238  that includes a handle cover housing channel  240 , a slide surface  242 , tabs  244 , and end stops  246 , as described above with respect to channel  217 , sliding surface  218 , tabs  220  and end stops  222 , respectively. The to manner of installation and operation of cover plate  230  is essentially identical to cover  200 . 
   Additional advantages and modifications will readily occur to those skilled in the art. For example, the absolute and/or relative dimensions of the embodiments provided above may be different from those disclosed herein, depending upon the intended application. Therefore, the invention in its broader aspects is not limited to the specific details, representative devices and methods, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures may be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of the general inventive concept as described herein.