DESC:FORM 2
THE PATENT ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENT RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10; rule 13)
“MAGNETICALLY COUPLED TWO-PART SWITCHBOARD PLATE ASSEMBLY”
Falcon Control Systems & Automation Pvt. Ltd, having address of, Flat 12 Shashank Society, 444 Manmala Tank Road, Matunga West, Opp. Starcity Cinema, Mumbai- 400016
THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED
2
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to electrical switchboard plates, and more particularly to an improved switchboard plate system comprising a fixed and a detachable part that utilize magnetic attraction for tool-free, safe, and damage-free installation and removal.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Switchboard plates, also referred to as wall plates or cover plates, serve both functional and aesthetic purposes in residential, commercial, and industrial electrical systems. These plates are designed to enclose and protect electrical outlets, switches, and other related components. Functionally, they act as a critical safety barrier, preventing accidental contact with live electrical wires. Aesthetically, they contribute to the interior decor, with availability in a wide range of designs, materials, and finishes to suit various style preferences.
[0003] The switchboard plate market encompasses several types, including modular switch plates that allow for customizable arrangements of switches and outlets, single-gang plates that cover one device, and multi-gang plates capable of housing multiple switches or outlets. Specialty plates have also emerged for applications involving dimmer switches, USB ports, and other non-standard devices. In terms of material, switchboard plates are commonly fabricated from metal (such as aluminum (interchangeably referred to as “aluminium”) or steel), plastic, wood, or glass, each offering distinct advantages in terms of durability, appearance, and cost.
[0004] Typically, switchboards are installed using screws or wall anchors and are mounted flush or recessed within wall-mounted electrical boxes. However, numerous challenges and drawbacks persist in the current state of the art. During maintenance or repair operations, damages often occur due to overtightening of screws, improper use of tools, or insufficient wall reinforcement. Forceful or improper removal of the plate can damage the wall surface, the fasteners, or the plate itself—particularly when made from fragile materials like glass or wood. Additionally, the risk of damaging internal wiring during such procedures poses
3
serious safety hazards, including the possibility of short circuits or electrical failures.
[0005] Accordingly, there exists a need for an improved switchboard plate system that addresses these deficiencies by enhancing installation and removal processes, improving mechanical stability, protecting internal wiring, and mitigating risks associated with overloading and component damage.
SUMMARY
[0006] The present invention relates to improvements in switchboard plate assemblies, and more particularly, to a novel two-part switchboard plate system that enables tool-free, damage-free installation and removal using magnetic coupling. The invention addresses long-standing challenges associated with conventional switchboard plates, including damage to walls and panels during removal, risk of wire disconnection or electrical faults, and difficulty in maintaining or upgrading installed plates.
[0007] In conventional systems, switchboard plates are secured using screws or wall anchors that penetrate the wall and hold the plate firmly in position. While effective in providing mechanical stability, this method often results in complications during maintenance or removal, such as stripping of screw holes, cracking of delicate plate materials, or inadvertent damage to internal wiring. Furthermore, repeated installation and removal can weaken the wall structure or reduce the overall safety of the installation.
[0008] To overcome these limitations, the present invention provides a switchboard plate assembly comprising two separate components: a fixed base plate and a detachable cover plate. The fixed base plate is permanently mounted onto the wall surface using conventional methods, such as screws or adhesive anchors, and includes one or more embedded magnetic elements or metal elements on the outward-facing surface. These magnets are positioned to align with corresponding magnetic elements embedded within the detachable cover plate.
4
[0009] The detachable cover plate, which forms the visible, user-facing portion of the switchboard, is designed for a plug-and-play magnetic connection. When brought into close proximity to the fixed base plate, the embedded magnets attract and securely hold the cover plate in place without the need for mechanical fasteners. This magnetic coupling ensures firm attachment during regular use while also enabling easy, non-destructive removal when access to the underlying electrical components is required.
[0010] This configuration offers multiple advantages. First, it significantly reduces the risk of damaging the wall or plate during maintenance, as no tools are required for removal. Second, it protects internal wiring by eliminating the need to apply force near the electrical junctions. Third, it provides flexibility in upgrading or replacing switchboard plates with minimal effort, especially in modular electrical systems. Additionally, the absence of external screws or hardware contributes to a cleaner, more modern appearance.
[0011] By incorporating this two-part magnetic switchboard plate design, the present invention provides a safer, more user-friendly, and aesthetically superior alternative to conventional switchboard plates. It is particularly suited for environments where frequent access to electrical components is necessary or where high-end interior finishes demand a seamless installation without visible fasteners.
[0012] Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure relate to an improved electrical switchboard plate assembly that enables secure, tool-free installation and removal while minimizing wall and wiring damage typically associated with conventional screw-mounted switchboard plates. The assembly comprises two primary components: a fixed base plate and a detachable cover plate. The base plate is configured to be permanently affixed to a wall surface using conventional mounting methods such as screws, wall plugs, or adhesive anchors. Embedded within the outward-facing surface of the base plate is a first set of magnetic or ferromagnetic coupling elements, which are arranged in a predefined spatial configuration.
5
[0013] The detachable cover plate forms the visible, user-facing portion of the assembly and includes a second set of magnetic or ferromagnetic coupling elements that align with the first set when the plate is brought into close proximity to the base plate. The magnetic coupling elements between the fixed and detachable plates are arranged in a non-uniform or polarity-specific pattern, thereby ensuring precise orientation, improved alignment, and resistance to lateral slippage. This configuration enables a flush, secure attachment of the cover plate without requiring mechanical fasteners, screws, or tools, allowing the user to install or remove the cover plate easily and repeatedly without damaging the internal wiring or surrounding wall.
[0014] To ensure safety and long-term usability, the magnetic holding force is tuned to enable firm retention during routine use while allowing manual removal with reasonable effort. The assembly is suitable for a wide range of applications, including single-gang, multi-gang, and modular switchboard configurations, and can be constructed from various materials such as plastic, aluminum, stainless steel, glass, or wood, depending on the desired aesthetic and functional requirements.
[0015] In certain embodiments, the detachable cover plate further integrates an IoT-enabled sensor module configured to monitor environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, motion, or ambient light. The sensor module may transmit data wirelessly via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Zigbee protocols to a central hub or mobile device. Power to the sensor module may be provided by an internal battery or through inductive coupling or conductive contacts interfacing with the fixed base plate. This configuration allows for seamless integration of smart functionalities while preserving the advantages of tool-free installation and easy access for maintenance or battery replacement.
[0016] Overall, the present invention offers a significant improvement in the usability, safety, and aesthetics of electrical switchboard systems by enabling secure, reversible, and non-destructive mounting through magnetic coupling, with optional integration of smart sensing technologies.
6
[0017] In the context of the present invention, suitable magnetic coupling elements include powerful and compact neodymium magnets (NdFeB), which are rare-earth magnets known for their exceptional magnetic strength relative to their size. These are especially beneficial for applications where strong holding force is required in limited space, such as between a switchboard’s fixed base plate and a detachable cover plate. Alternatively, samarium cobalt (SmCo) magnets may be used, offering similar strength along with high thermal stability, making them suitable for environments exposed to elevated temperatures or electrical heating. For applications requiring greater flexibility or cost-efficiency, rubberized flexible magnets—composed of ferrite powder embedded in a polymer matrix—can provide adequate magnetic holding force for lightweight or curved surfaces, although with reduced strength compared to rare-earth magnets. Ceramic or ferrite magnets, while less powerful, serve well in low-load applications and offer a more economical option for non-precision alignments.
[0018] Complementing the magnetic components, suitable ferromagnetic coupling elements include mild steel inserts, which offer high magnetic permeability and can be easily embedded into the cover plate’s structure via molding or mechanical fastening. Galvanized iron (GI) discs or thin plates are another practical choice, offering both corrosion resistance and excellent magnetic attraction. For improved durability and corrosion performance, nickel-plated steel elements can be incorporated into the detachable cover, especially where parts may be exposed or visible in premium interior applications. Additionally, certain grades of stainless steel, such as 430, exhibit ferromagnetic properties and can be utilized either structurally or decoratively. In more advanced designs, iron-based alloy inserts can be precision-stamped and positioned in specific patterns to aid in both magnetic attraction and keyed alignment, preventing rotational misalignment or slippage.
[0019] Common practical pairings include neodymium disc magnets embedded in the fixed base plate, with matching steel or iron insets in the cover plate; or vice versa. For assemblies prioritizing aesthetics, the magnets may be concealed behind plastic or decorative layers, while the ferromagnetic inserts
7
remain hidden within the cover plate structure, enabling a seamless, screwless finish that is both functionally secure and visually appealing. The choice of coupling elements ultimately depends on the desired pull strength, environmental conditions, manufacturing constraints, and aesthetic considerations.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF ACCOMPANING DRAWINGS
[0020] FIGs. 1A-1C illustrates different views of the magnetic switchboard plate assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0021] The present invention relates to electrical fixtures, and more particularly, to an improved switchboard plate assembly comprising a fixed base plate and a detachable cover plate that are magnetically coupled, enabling tool-free, damage-free, and orientation-specific attachment and removal. The invention further extends to embodiments integrating smart sensor modules within the detachable plate for enhanced functionality in smart home or building automation systems.
[0022] An electrical switchboard plate assembly is disclosed comprising a fixed base plate and a detachable cover plate configured to be magnetically coupled in a secure and reversible manner without mechanical fasteners. The base plate includes magnetic or ferromagnetic elements arranged in a predefined spatial pattern, while the cover plate includes complementary elements to ensure flush alignment and resistance to lateral displacement. The system enables tool-free installation and removal, reduces damage to internal wiring and wall structures, and supports single-gang, multi-gang, or modular configurations. In certain embodiments, the cover plate integrates a sensor module capable of environmental sensing and wireless data transmission, powered by an internal battery or inductive coupling. The invention enhances safety, maintainability, and aesthetics in residential, commercial, and smart building applications.
[0023] The present invention provides a two-part switchboard plate system that addresses the aforementioned drawbacks through the use of magnetic coupling between a fixed wall-mounted plate and a detachable cover plate. The
8
key inventive feature lies in enabling secure, reversible attachment using magnets and corresponding ferromagnetic materials, eliminating the need for visible fasteners or tools during routine access
[0024] The assembly includes two primary components:
[0025] Fixed Base Plate: This component is mounted permanently to the wall using conventional methods such as screws, wall anchors, or adhesives. It contains either a set of embedded magnets or ferromagnetic elements (such as a steel plate or insert) or metal studs/plates located on the outward-facing surface.
[0026] Detachable Cover Plate: This user-facing portion of the switchboard plate is configured to magnetically engage with the fixed base plate. Depending on the configuration, the cover plate contains either magnetic elements or ferromagnetic components complementary to the fixed plate.
[0027] It may be appreciated that, the arrangement of magnet and metal can be reversed, i.e., the detachable plate can have metal structures only and fixed plate can have magnets.
[0028] When brought into close proximity, magnetic attraction securely holds the two parts together. The arrangement is designed such that only one of the two plates (either fixed or detachable) needs to house magnets, while the other can include a metallic (magnet-attracting) material. This reduces manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining effective magnetic engagement.
[0029] This magnetic attachment system offers several distinct advantages. First, it allows for rapid, tool-free removal of the cover plate without damaging the wall, the plate, or internal wiring. Second, it enables easy inspection, cleaning, or replacement, making it ideal for modular and frequently serviced electrical setups. Third, it provides a seamless, screw-free exterior finish, enhancing the overall aesthetics of the installation.
[0030] The invention is adaptable to a variety of configurations including single-gang, multi-gang, and modular switchboards. It may be constructed from a wide range of materials, including plastic, aluminum, stainless steel, glass, and wood, depending on the desired strength, finish, and visual effect.
9
[0031] In conclusion, the invention introduces a magnetically coupled switchboard plate system with a fixed and a detachable component, in which magnetic force between a magnet and a metal counterpart provides a stable, reversible connection. This system overcomes the deficiencies of conventional screw-mounted plates by improving safety, convenience, durability, and design flexibility.
[0032] In one embodiment of the present invention, the detachable cover plate is integrated with an IoT-enabled sensor module to enhance the functionality of the switchboard system. The sensor module may include, but is not limited to, environmental sensors such as temperature, humidity, motion detection, or light level sensors. The module is embedded within the detachable plate and is powered either through a compact internal battery or inductive coupling with the base plate.
[0033] The sensor data can be transmitted wirelessly via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Zigbee to a central hub, mobile device, or cloud platform for monitoring and automation purposes. For example, a motion sensor within the plate may trigger lighting systems or notify a home automation controller when movement is detected in a room. A temperature or humidity sensor can be used to regulate HVAC systems.
[0034] In this embodiment, the magnetic coupling mechanism not only enables physical attachment of the plate but also allows for quick detachment for sensor maintenance or battery replacement, without requiring tools or disturbing the wall-mounted base. Additionally, conductive contacts or wireless charging elements may optionally be incorporated into the interface between the fixed and detachable plates to provide continuous power to the IoT module.
[0035] This smart embodiment expands the utility of the switchboard plate beyond mechanical protection and aesthetics, enabling integration into modern smart home or smart building systems.
[0036] In an embodiment, the present invention provides a novel electrical switchboard plate assembly that overcomes the limitations of conventional screw-based systems by enabling tool-free, damage-free mounting and demounting of a
10
switchboard cover using a magnetic coupling mechanism. The system comprises two primary components: a fixed base plate and a detachable cover plate.
[0037] The fixed base plate is designed to be mounted on a wall surface using conventional methods such as screws, adhesive anchors, or wall plugs. Embedded on its outward-facing surface is a set of magnetic or ferromagnetic elements arranged in a predefined spatial configuration. The detachable cover plate, which forms the visible surface of the switchboard, carries a corresponding set of magnetic or ferromagnetic elements that align with the base plate to form a secure and flush connection.
[0038] To ensure orientation-specific alignment and minimize lateral displacement, the magnetic elements are arranged in a non-uniform polarity pattern or a keyed spatial configuration. This arrangement enforces proper mounting orientation, improves mechanical stability, and prevents misalignment or slippage once attached. The magnetic coupling strength is selected such that the cover plate can be securely retained during regular use while also allowing for manual removal without the use of tools or the application of excessive force near sensitive wiring connections.
[0039] The cover and base plates may be fabricated from various materials such as polycarbonate, ABS plastic, aluminum, stainless steel, tempered glass, or wood, based on the desired structural or aesthetic attributes. The design is adaptable to various electrical switch formats including single-gang, multi-gang, and modular switchboard layouts.
[0040] In certain advanced embodiments, the detachable cover plate further includes a sensor module integrated into its structure. The sensor module may comprise one or more sensors such as temperature, humidity, motion, or ambient light sensors. The sensor module can wirelessly transmit data using protocols such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or Zigbee to a building management system, smart home controller, or mobile application. Power to the sensor module may be provided either through a compact internal battery or via inductive power transfer or conductive contacts interfacing with the fixed base plate. This configuration enables seamless power delivery while preserving the ability to easily detach the
11
cover plate for maintenance or battery replacement without disrupting the base plate or underlying wiring.
[0041] The invention provides multiple advantages over conventional systems. It eliminates the need for screws or external fasteners, thereby reducing visual clutter and preserving the aesthetics of high-end interiors. It prevents mechanical damage to the wall or internal wiring during removal or reinstallation and simplifies maintenance, inspection, and upgrades of electrical components. Moreover, the optional integration of smart functionality expands its applicability to smart buildings and automation environments, enabling the switchboard plate to act as both a protective cover and an active sensing interface.
[0042] FIGs. 1A-1C illustrates different views of the magnetic switchboard plate assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0043] Embodiments of the present invention provides an electrical switchboard plate assembly (100, 200) that includes a fixed base plate (102, 202) configured for permanent mounting on a wall surface (1000) and a detachable cover plate (106, 206) designed for secure, tool-free, and reversible attachment. The fixed base plate comprises a first set of coupling elements—either magnetic (104-1, 104-2, 104-3, ...104-N) or ferromagnetic (204-1, 204-2, 204-3, ...204-N)—embedded or mounted on its outward-facing surface in a predefined spatial arrangement. These coupling elements may include neodymium magnets (NdFeB), which are known for their high magnetic strength and compact size, or ferromagnetic inserts made from mild steel, galvanized iron, or nickel-plated stainless steel.
[0044] The detachable cover plate (106, 206) comprises a corresponding second set of coupling elements—either magnetic (208-1, 208-2, 208-3, …208-N) or ferromagnetic (108-1, 108-2, 108-3, …108-N)—arranged to align with the first set in such a manner that the plates connect magnetically in a flush and secure manner. This configuration ensures reversible attachment without mechanical fasteners, enabling tool-free installation and removal while avoiding stress near sensitive electrical connections. Importantly, the coupling elements are arranged
12
in a polarity-specific or asymmetric spatial layout to enforce correct alignment, prevent rotational misfit, and minimize lateral slippage during or after installation.
[0045] The fixed base plate (102, 202) may be mounted using conventional hardware such as screws, wall plugs, or adhesive anchors. Depending on the embodiment, the magnetic elements may be located in the fixed plate while the cover plate includes ferromagnetic inserts, or vice versa. For example, the fixed plate can include rare-earth magnets embedded within plastic or metal enclosures, while the detachable cover includes mild steel or galvanized iron inserts fitted into preformed cavities. Alternatively, the cover plate can house the magnets while the base plate includes the ferromagnetic inserts.
[0046] The materials used for constructing the base and cover plates can include polycarbonate or ABS plastic for lightweight, moldable designs, or more premium finishes like aluminum, stainless steel, glass, or wood for aesthetic or architectural applications. In certain variants, the detachable cover plate may also feature a beveled or recessed edge that aligns with a mating contour in the base plate, helping to lock the cover against lateral displacement once mounted.
[0047] The magnetic coupling strength is preferably calibrated to produce a pull-off force ranging from 2 to 10 Newtons, allowing reliable retention under vibration or normal usage while enabling manual removal without requiring tools. The system supports modular and multi-gang switchboard arrangements, allowing scalability and ease of upgrade in both residential and commercial settings.
[0048] In advanced embodiments, the detachable cover plate (106) or base plate (202) further includes an embedded IoT-enabled sensor module (110, 210) capable of measuring one or more environmental parameters. The sensor module may include sensors such as temperature sensors, humidity sensors, passive infrared (PIR) motion sensors, or ambient light detectors. These sensors may wirelessly transmit data using Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or other industry-standard protocols to a smart home hub, mobile app, or cloud service. Power to the sensor module may be supplied via a compact lithium battery or inductively from the base plate through embedded coils, and optionally through conductive pogo pins or charging pads positioned at the interface between the two plates. The
13
magnetic coupling system enables easy detachment for maintenance, calibration, or battery replacement, without disturbing the base plate or underlying wiring.
[0049] The method of installation for such a system comprises mounting the fixed base plate (102, 202) onto the wall surface (1000) using screws, anchors, or adhesives, ensuring the embedded coupling elements are properly exposed. Thereafter, the detachable cover plate (106, 206), which includes complementary magnetic or ferromagnetic elements, is brought into alignment such that it magnetically engages with the base plate. No tools, screws, or mechanical fasteners are required for this engagement, allowing repeated attachment and detachment in a safe, user-friendly, and non-destructive manner.
[0050] The present invention provides a novel two-part switchboard plate assembly comprising a fixed base plate and a detachable cover plate that engage through magnetic coupling. The system is designed to address limitations of conventional screw-based switchboard plates by enabling secure, tool-free, and damage-free installation and removal. The base plate is permanently affixed to the wall surface and includes embedded magnetic or ferromagnetic coupling elements arranged in a specific spatial configuration to align with complementary elements embedded within the detachable cover plate.
[0051] During operation, the fixed base plate is mounted onto a wall surface using traditional fasteners such as screws or anchors. The outward-facing side of the base plate incorporates a predefined number of magnetic or ferromagnetic elements—such as neodymium magnets or mild steel inserts—positioned strategically to form a polarity-sensitive or asymmetric layout. The detachable cover plate, forming the visible aesthetic surface, includes a corresponding set of coupling elements. When brought into proximity, the magnetic attraction securely locks the cover plate onto the base plate in a flush and orientation-specific manner. This coupling eliminates the need for tools and prevents damage to internal wiring or wall finishes.
[0052] The arrangement may further incorporate a locking geometry, beveled edges, or polarity-based alignment that ensures resistance to lateral slippage and enforces a correct mounting orientation. The design is scalable to single-gang,
14
multi-gang, or modular switchboard configurations, and supports diverse aesthetic materials like ABS plastic, aluminum, glass, or wood. In an extended embodiment, the detachable plate includes a smart sensor module powered either through an internal battery or via inductive coupling with the base plate. The sensor module can collect and wirelessly transmit environmental data (e.g., motion, temperature) to a smart controller. This technical implementation allows repeated access for inspection, replacement, or cleaning without physical or electrical disruption, making it suitable for both standard residential and intelligent building environments.
[0053] FIG. 1A illustrates a simplified three-dimensional exploded view of the switchboard plate system. The assembly consists of a fixed base plate (left) and a detachable cover plate (right), shown separated for clarity. The base plate is rectangular with rounded corners and includes four mounting holes located near each corner, intended for screws or wall anchors. Additionally, it features three circular recesses or cavities, which represent the magnetic or ferromagnetic coupling elements—such as neodymium disc magnets or steel inserts—embedded in a triangular configuration. The detachable cover plate, similarly rectangular, has a central cutout (e.g., for switch operation) and is designed to magnetically attach to the base plate. The positional correspondence between the magnets in the base and the cover ensures that the plate locks into the correct orientation and sits flush against the wall.
[0054] FIG. 1B depicts a top-down schematic view of a first embodiment of the magnetic switchboard assembly (100), showing its structural components in exploded form for reference alignment. The wall surface (1000) hosts the fixed base plate (102), which houses a plurality of magnetic elements (104-1 through 104-N) embedded on its outer surface. These may be implemented using rare-earth magnets like NdFeB for high holding strength. On the right side of the figure is the detachable cover plate (106), which includes corresponding ferromagnetic elements (108-1 through 108-N) such as mild steel or galvanized iron inserts. These elements are aligned such that when the cover is brought near the base, the magnetic attraction holds the plate securely in place. A recessed
15
housing (110) may optionally accommodate structural features or guiding elements. The spatial arrangement of magnetic elements in a specific pattern ensures slippage resistance and enforces correct alignment.
[0055] FIG. 1C illustrates a variant configuration (200), wherein the placement of magnetic and ferromagnetic elements is reversed from FIG. 1B. In this embodiment, the base plate (202) mounted on the wall (1000) includes a set of ferromagnetic elements (204-1 to 204-N), while the detachable cover plate (206) includes embedded magnets (208-1 to 208-N). A sensor module (210) may be integrated into the base plate to support smart functionality. This arrangement demonstrates the interchangeable nature of magnetic and ferromagnetic positioning between components, thereby offering design flexibility and potential cost optimization during manufacturing. As with the previous embodiment, the two plates magnetically engage in a flush and secure manner, and the coupling elements are configured to ensure mechanical stability and ease of detachment.
[0056] To summarize, the present invention provides a two-part switchboard plate assembly designed for tool-free, damage-free installation and removal. The system comprises a fixed base plate mounted on a wall and a detachable cover plate that connects magnetically. Only one of the plates contains magnetic elements, while the other includes a ferromagnetic material to enable secure coupling. This arrangement eliminates the need for screws or mechanical fasteners, reducing the risk of damage during maintenance and enhancing aesthetic appeal. The invention is compatible with various configurations including single-gang, multi-gang, and modular setups, and may be manufactured using materials such as plastic, metal, wood, or glass. The system offers improved safety, convenience, and adaptability in both residential and commercial electrical installations. ,CLAIMS:CLAIMS:
WE CLAIM:
1. An electrical switchboard plate assembly (100, 200) comprising:
a fixed base plate (102, 202) configured to be permanently affixed to the wall surface (1000) and comprising a first set of magnetic coupling elements (104-1, 104-2, 104-3, … 104-N) or a first set of ferromagnetic coupling elements (204-1, 204-2, 204-3, … 204-N) disposed in a predefined spatial arrangement on an outward-facing surface; and
a detachable cover plate (106, 206) comprising a second set of magnetic coupling elements (208-1, 208-2, 208-3, …. 208-N) or a second set of ferromagnetic coupling elements (108-1, 108-2, 108-3, … 108-N) arranged to align with the first set such that the cover plate (106, 206) is magnetically and removably secured to the base plate (102, 202) in a flush manner, wherein:
the coupling elements are arranged in a non-uniform polarity or position-specific configuration to ensure orientation-specific alignment and minimize lateral slippage,
the magnetic coupling allows for reversible, tool-free installation and removal without applying force near electrical junctions; and
the assembly is devoid of visible mechanical fasteners and is configured to enable repeatable access to underlying electrical components without damaging the wall or internal wiring.
2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the fixed base plate (102, 202) is affixed to the wall using screws, wall plugs, or adhesive anchors, and the fixed base plate comprises:
one or more permanent magnets and the detachable cover plate comprises ferromagnetic inserts; or
one or more ferromagnetic inserts and the detachable cover plate comprises permanent magnets.
17
3. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the first and second sets of coupling elements comprise neodymium magnets arranged to maintain magnetic engagement during vibration or movement.
4. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the spatial arrangement of the coupling elements comprises an asymmetric or keyed pattern to enforce a single mounting orientation of the cover plate.
5. The assembly of claim 1, wherein one of the fixed base plate or the detachable cover plate is composed of a material selected from: polycarbonate, ABS plastic, stainless steel, aluminum, glass, or wood.
6. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the cover plate includes a bevelled or recessed edge profile configured to fit into a corresponding contour in the base plate to prevent horizontal displacement after installation.
7. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the magnetic coupling is configured to achieve a pull-off force in the range of 2–10 Newtons to allow secure attachment while enabling manual detachment.
8. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the detachable cover plate or fixed the base plate comprises:
an IoT-enabled sensor module (110, 210) configured to monitor one or more environmental parameters, wherein:
the sensor module comprises one or more sensors selected from the group consisting of: temperature sensors, humidity sensors, motion sensors, and ambient light sensors;
the sensor module is configured to transmit sensor data wirelessly via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, or other wireless communication protocols;
the sensor module is powered by an internal battery or via inductive power transfer between the fixed base plate and the detachable cover plate;
18
the interface between the fixed and detachable plates comprises conductive contacts or wireless charging elements for delivering continuous power to the sensor module; and
the magnetic attachment enables rapid detachment of the cover plate for battery replacement or sensor maintenance without requiring tools or disturbing the fixed base plate.
9. A method of installing an electrical switchboard plate assembly as claimed in claim 1, the method comprising:
mounting a fixed base plate onto a wall surface using screws or adhesive anchors, the base plate including magnetic or ferromagnetic elements;
aligning a detachable cover plate comprising complementary magnetic or ferromagnetic elements; and
magnetically coupling the detachable cover plate to the base plate without using mechanical fasteners or tools.