BS1363 Socket with plug detection

[richmf24]

Hi

I have a project where we need a signal from the BS1363 socket that detects when a plug is present and removed.

Has anyone seen a socket with this feature?

Thanks

 

[Spark123]

Not seen it on the small plugs and sockets, some of the big ceeform sockets have pilot pins in them.
How important are aesthetics?
Would a fused connection unit be better?

 

[holmslaw]

..

 

[JohnW2]

I have never seen such a system and doubt if one exists, because if the thing thats plugged in is switched off, there's nothing to measure.

Except for the physical prsence of the plug. As Spark 123 said, I've seen a potential facility to achieve this with other types of socket, but that's not ging to be the case with BS1363 ones.

With a BS1363 socket, the OP might have to resort to 'lateral thinking'approaches, such as an IR beam across the space occupied by a plug when inserted.

Kind Regards, John.

 

[holmslaw]

..

 

[Monkeh]

It'd be relatively simple to do.. if you were making the socket from scratch. Just have the shutters press a microswitch.

 

[JohnD]

Perhaps, if you explain exactly what/why you are trying to achieve, somebody might come up with a solution.

Best reply yet.

 

[mattylad]

However without that we can only speculate lol

Is there room to drill a small hole and stick a proximity sensor through to detect when the plug is in?
This could then interface with other circuitry.

OR a hall effect device inside the plate and a magnet in the plug somewhere.

I can see a relay being needed somewhere

 

[ban-all-sheds]

Perhaps, if you explain exactly what/why you are trying to achieve, somebody might come up with a solution.

As part of the explanation, please say what the consequences would be of:

1) Plug being in, detector saying "plug not present".

2) Plug not in, detector saying "plug present".

3) Plug in but fuse blown or not present.