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emeritus · 9th Jun 2019, 1:33 am

MK patented both types in the mid-1970's. From memory, the patent for the earlier type mentioned its suitability for 2pin sockets as well as the UK's 13A socket. The patent for the later type mentioned the fact that , with their original design, a Europlug would operate the shutters of a UK 13A socket. Their new invention provided the shutters with recesses specifically designed to engage the pins of a Europlug to prevent insertion. As MK's patents expired many years ago, anyone is free to use their designs of shutter but I haven't noticed any 13A sockets other than MK with them.

9th Jun 2019, 1:33 am	#155
emeritus Dekatron Join Date: Jan 2012 Location: Brentwood, Essex, UK. Posts: 5,349	Re: Any other plug collectors out there? MK patented both types in the mid-1970's. From memory, the patent for the earlier type mentioned its suitability for 2pin sockets as well as the UK's 13A socket. The patent for the later type mentioned the fact that , with their original design, a Europlug would operate the shutters of a UK 13A socket. Their new invention provided the shutters with recesses specifically designed to engage the pins of a Europlug to prevent insertion. As MK's patents expired many years ago, anyone is free to use their designs of shutter but I haven't noticed any 13A sockets other than MK with them. Last edited by emeritus; 9th Jun 2019 at 1:41 am.