Abstract: A variety of active cover plate configurations with prongs configured to contact side screw terminals of electrical receptacles are described. In one illustrative embodiment, an active cover plate includes a multi-gang face plate configured to be installed over a multi-gang light switch installation, the multi-gang faceplate including at least two apertures sized to accept a manually manipulatable element of switches in the multi-gang light switch installation. Prongs extend rearward from the multi-gang faceplate around at least one of the apertures.

Abstract: In one example, a modified electrical device includes a body and at least one connector on the body to make power and control connections with an active cover plate. In some embodiments, a wall plate system may include a modified electrical device or receptacle and/or an active cover plate.

Abstract: The invention relates generally to an illuminable wall socket plate for replacing existing wall socket plates in one simple installation step. The illuminable wall socket plate obtains electric current from a socket to power a light by connecting metal tabs on the back side of the illuminable wall socket plate to socket terminals, and transferring electric current from the socket terminals to a light in the wall socket plate through conductive material, in accordance with the invention described herein.

Abstract: A variety of active cover plate configurations with prongs configured to contact side screw terminals of electrical receptacles are described.

Abstract: A variety of active cover plate configurations with prongs configured to contact side screw terminals of electrical receptacles are described.

Abstract: A variety of active cover plate configurations with prongs configured to contact side screw terminals of electrical receptacles or switches are described.

Abstract: An active cover plate includes a face plate, a load and an electrically insulated power extractor extending rearward from the face plate to interface with an electrical receptacle, wherein the power extractor extracts electrical power from the electrical receptacle to energize the load. A method for installing an active cover plate on an electrical receptacle is also provided.