Base for a retrofit remote control device

A base configured to be mounted over a paddle actuator of an installed mechanical switch that controls whether power is delivered to an electrical load, the base comprising:

• a frame that defines a first end wall, a second end wall, and opposed side walls that extend between the first end wall and the second end wall, the frame defining an opening and a rear surface, wherein when the base is mounted over the paddle actuator, the opening receives a protruding portion of the paddle actuator therein and the rear surface abuts a bezel of the mechanical switch;
• a biasing member comprising:
• a pair of spring supports;
• a pair of spring contacts;
• and
• a plurality of spring arms, wherein each of the plurality of spring arms extends between a respective one of the pair of spring supports and a respective one of the pair of spring contacts to couple the respective one of the pair of spring supports to the respective one of the pair of spring contacts, each of the plurality of spring arms being compliant to bias the spring contacts against a rear surface of the faceplate;
• and
• a ribbon portion that attaches the biasing member to the frame,
• wherein when the base is mounted over the paddle actuator, the ribbon portion extends through a gap between the bezel and the faceplate such that the frame is located on a front side of the faceplate and the pair of spring supports extend into a wallbox to which the mechanical switch is installed.