What is the history of power sockets?

The invention of the first power socket

The history of the power socket dates back to the late 1800s, where the first electrical power distribution systems were introduced. But it wasn’t until the early 20th century that the first standardized power socket was invented. In 1915, Harvey Hubbell II introduced the first plug-and-socket device, called the Hubbell Twist-Lock®. It was designed to provide a safer and more reliable electrical connection for industrial and commercial applications.

The evolution of power sockets over the years

After the introduction of the Hubbell Twist-Lock®, power sockets continued to evolve over the years. In the 1920s, the first residential socket design was introduced, which offered a convenient and safe way for homeowners to connect their electrical devices. In the 1960s, the first UK three-pin plug was introduced, which provided better stability and safety than previous designs.

The adoption of international standards for power sockets

As electricity became more widely used around the world, the need for international standards for power sockets became apparent. In the 1950s, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) was established to develop and promote international standards for electrical technologies, including power sockets. Today, the IEC’s standard for power sockets and plugs, known as IEC 60906, is used in many countries around the world.

The emergence of smart power sockets

In recent years, power sockets have gone through another evolution with the emergence of smart home technology. Smart power sockets allow users to control their electrical devices remotely via a smartphone app or a virtual assistant, such as Amazon’s Alexa or Google Assistant. These devices also have features such as scheduling, energy monitoring, and voice control.

The future of power sockets

The future of power sockets is likely to be driven by advances in smart home technology and the increasing need for energy efficiency. Newer designs may include features such as wireless charging, USB ports, and even sensors that can detect if a device is left plugged in when it’s not in use. As the world becomes more connected, power sockets will continue to play a critical role in our daily lives.