Electrical plug and socket

Abstract

The present invention relates to an electrical plug and socket, wherein each of the electrical plug and the electrical socket is adapted to effectively detect the signs of a potential fire, as well as prevent and / or extinguish a fire in the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket.

Description

[0001] Electrical Plug and Socket

[0002] Technical Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to an electrical plug and socket. The invention further relates to an electrical plug and socket that is adapted to effectively detect the signs of a potential fire, and to electrical plugs and sockets which are adapted to prevent and / or extinguish a fire in the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket.

[0004] Background to the Invention

[0005] Many fires in the home or workplace are caused by electrical faults in an electrical component or device, so called ‘electrical fires’. One of the main causes of electrical fires is by worn out plugs and / or sockets (also known as outlets) in which wires have loosened over time and can eventually break leading to a fire. Other causes may be the use of faulty or damaged electrical equipment, or by overloading a socket by connecting several electrical devices to a single socket which may cause wires to overheat.

[0006] Fire detection and suppression systems are key to protecting a building from fire and for keeping people safe, such as by monitoring for smoke and heat and / or by dispersal of fire suppressant or extinguisher onto a fire.

[0007] Fire detection systems, such as heat and / or smoke alarms, commonly detect heat and / or smoke in a room or building and alert people in the immediate vicinity by sounding an alarm so that they can safely evacuate the building before the fire spreads further. One problem with common fire detection systems is that relatively substantial amounts of heat and / or smoke are required to trigger the alarm, especially if the alarm is not located within the immediate vicinity of the source of the heat and / or smoke. Fire detection systems may be linked to fire suppression systems that aim to extinguish a fire as quickly as possible. Once the fire detection system detects heat and / or smoke and has alerted people in the immediate vicinity, the system will dispense a fireretarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material. Such materials may include carbon dioxide, inert gas, liquid chemical agents and dry chemical agents. Common fire suppression systems include water sprinkler systems, which are not ideal for domestic use.

[0008] The aforementioned commonly known systems are only capable of detecting and supressing fires that have already begun to spread. Many electrical fires, such as those in plugs and sockets, begin by emitting only small amounts of heat and / or smoke in a localised area before sparking and spreading into a much larger fire. The aforementioned systems are not generally suitable to detect such small amounts of smoke and / or heat emanating from the electrical device or component and this may lead to the fire spreading beyond the localised area before detection. There is therefore a need to detect and supress fires that are localised to electrical components or devices in order to prevent the spread of fires.

[0009] WO2019197821A1 describes an electrical device that comprises an automatic fire prevention or extinguishing system within the housing of an electrical device. The fire prevention or extinguishing system comprises a heat and / or smoke sensor connected to a signalling system (printed circuit board) which instructs the puncturing of a container containing a fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing or fire-prevention material, wherein the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing or fire-prevention material is dispensed upon detection of heat and / or smoke. The fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing or fire-prevention material is dispensed through at least one conduit which tracks the electrical wiring of the electrical device. Thus, WO2019197821A1 describes fire prevention or extinguishing within a single electrical device or component. WO2019197821 Al does not describe the use of a fire prevention and / or extinguishing system for interconnected electrical parts, such as an electrical plug and socket, wherein the fire may be detected in either of the interconnected parts, and wherein the fire, or potential fire, requires extinguishing in either of the interconnected parts.

[0010] There is therefore a need for an electrical device comprising interconnected parts that can rapidly detect the source of a fire, or potential fire, in at least one of the interconnected parts, and wherein the device can prevent and / or extinguish a fire in the part(s) of the device in which the fire, or potential fire, is detected.

[0011] It is therefore an aim of one or more embodiments of the invention to provide an electrical plug and socket system which can rapidly detect, prevent and / or extinguish a fire localised within the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket to prevent the spread of the fire throughout a room or building.

[0012] It is a further aim of one or more embodiments of the invention to overcome or mitigate at least one problem in the prior art.

[0013] Summary of the Invention

[0014] According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an electrical plug and socket, wherein the electrical plug comprises at least one electrical pin and the electrical socket comprises at least one aperture arranged in use to receive the electrical pin of the electrical plug, and wherein the electrical plug comprises at least one fluid- flow conduit extending from the exterior of the electrical plug to the interior of the electrical plug, and wherein the electrical socket comprises at least one fluid-flow conduit extending from the exterior of the electrical socket to the interior of the electrical socket, and wherein, in use, when the electrical plug and socket are connected, each fluid-flow conduit of the electrical plug connects to a corresponding fluid-flow conduit of the electrical socket to form one or more fluid communication conduit(s) between the interiors of the electrical plug and socket.

[0015] The electrical plug and socket may be any type of electrical plug and socket known in the art. For example, type A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, or O plugs and sockets. The term “electrical plug” and “electrical socket” is intended to also include electrical plugs and sockets forming part of adapters, converters, connectors, extension leads, or any other known electrical outlets and inlets.

[0016] The electrical plug may comprise at least one electrical plug pin. The electrical plug may comprise two or three electrical plug pins.

[0017] An electrical plug and socket may comprise one or more electrical plug and one or more electrical socket.

[0018] In some embodiments, the electrical socket may be selected from the group consisting of: an electrical wall socket, an electrical outlet, an extension lead comprising one or more electrical sockets, an electrical adapter or converter comprising one or more electrical sockets and a male electrical connector.

[0019] The electrical plug may be connected to an electrical device.

[0020] The electrical plug may comprise a plug housing. The electrical socket may comprise a socket housing. The housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket may enclose at least some of the components of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket, such as electrical connections, wires, fuses and the like, for example. In some embodiments, the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket may be openable and closeable, or may be removable from the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. This may be particularly useful for servicing, removing and / or replacing any parts inside the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket.

[0021] The housing of the electrical plug may comprise the plug fluid- flow conduit(s). The plug fluid-flow conduit(s) may extend from the interior of the plug housing to the exterior of the plug housing.

[0022] The housing of the electrical socket may comprise the socket fluid-flow conduit(s). The socket fluid-flow conduit(s) may extend from the interior of the socket housing to the exterior of the socket housing.

[0023] The plug housing may comprise a connecting face from which the electrical pins extend. The plug fluid-flow conduit(s) may extend from the interior of the plug housing to the exterior of the plug connecting face.

[0024] The socket housing may comprise a connecting face which comprises the socket apertures. The socket fluid- flow conduit(s) may extend from the interior of the socket housing to the exterior of the socket connecting face.

[0025] In use, the front face of the electrical plug and the connecting face may be arranged to create a fluid-tight seal between the electrical plug and the electrical socket when the electrical plug and socket are connected, and the plug fluid- flow conduit(s) and socket fluid-flow conduit(s) are connected.

[0026] The term ‘fluid communication’ and ‘fluid-flow’ may be used herein to describe the transfer or flow of at least one fluid between the interiors of the electrical plug and socket. The fluid may be selected from the group consisting of: at least one gas, at least one liquid, at least one foam, at least one powder, at least one particulate solid, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments the fluid is a gas, liquid or foam, preferably a gas.

[0027] In some embodiments, when the electrical plug and socket are connected in use, and the plug fluid- flow conduit(s) and socket fluid-flow conduit(s) are connected to form the fluid communication conduit(s), fluid emanating from the electrical plug or socket may flow between the interior of the electrical plug or socket, through the fluid communication conduit(s) and into the interior of the other of the electrical socket or the electrical plug.

[0028] In some embodiments, the electrical plug may comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or at least 10 plug fluid-flow conduit(s). In some embodiments, the electrical plug may comprise at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, or at least 100 fluid-flow conduits.

[0029] In some embodiments, the electrical socket may comprise at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or at least 10 socket fluid-flow conduit(s). In some embodiments, the electrical socket may comprise at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, or at least 100 socket fluid-flow conduits.

[0030] Preferably, there are the same number of plug fluid-flow conduits and socket fluid-flow conduits.

[0031] Preferably, the electrical plug may comprise a plurality of fluid-flow conduits and the electrical socket may comprise an equivalent number of socket fluid-flow conduits oriented to connect to the plug fluid-flow conduits to form a plurality of fluidcommunication conduits, when the electrical plug and socket are connected, in use. This enables effective fluid communication between the interior of the electrical plug and socket. Preferably, the plurality of fluid communication conduits are configured to enable fluid communication between the majority, or substantially all, areas of the interior of the electrical plug and socket.

[0032] In some embodiments the plug fluid-flow conduits comprise a grid-like or a regular pattern on the connecting face of the electrical plug and the socket fluid-flow conduits comprise an equivalent grid-like or regular pattern on the connecting face of the electrical socket and are oriented such that when the electrical plug and socket are connected the fluid-flow conduits of the electrical plug and socket connect together.

[0033] In some embodiments, the at least one plug and / or socket fluid-flow conduit comprises a fluid-flow aperture. The electrical plug and socket may each comprise at least one fluid-flow conduit comprising at least one fluid-flow aperture located on its connecting face. In some embodiments, when the electrical plug and socket are connected in use, each fluid-flow aperture of the electrical plug may connect to a corresponding fluid-flow aperture of the electrical socket to form one or more fluid communication conduit(s) between the interiors of the electrical plug and socket. The connection between the plug fluid-flow conduits and socket fluid-flow conduits may comprise a leak-proof seal between the electrical plug and socket when connected in use. The leak-proof seal enables the flow or transfer of a fluid between the interior of the electrical plug and the electrical socket when connected in use, whilst minimising the loss of any fluid to the atmosphere external to the electrical plug and socket.

[0034] In other embodiments, the at least one plug fluid- flow conduit comprises a male member or a female member and the at least one socket fluid-flow conduit comprises the corresponding female or male member. In embodiments where the electrical plug comprises more than one fluid-flow conduit, the electrical plug may comprise only female members, only male members, or a mixture of male and female members. In embodiments where the electrical socket comprises more than one fluid-flow conduit, the electrical socket may comprise only female members, only male members, or a mixture of male and female members. In preferred embodiments, the electrical plug comprises only male members, and the electrical socket comprises only female members. When the electrical plug and socket are connected in use, the female members of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket may be arranged to receive a corresponding male member from the other of the electrical socket and / or the electrical plug to form fluid communication conduits. Preferably, all of the male members on the electrical plug may be received by the female members on the electrical socket to form fluid communication conduits and vice versa. The connection between male members and female members may comprise a leak-proof seal between the electrical plug and socket when connected, in use.

[0035] The, or each, male member of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket may comprise a hollow pin, a hollow needle, a tube, a pipe, or the like, which projects from the connecting face of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The, or each, female member of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket may comprise an aperture in the connecting face of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket, or may comprise a hollow pin, needle, tube or pipe extending into the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket and configured to receive a corresponding male member of the electrical socket and / or the electrical plug. In a preferred embodiment, the at least one plug male member comprises a hollow pin and the at least one socket female member comprises an aperture. When the electrical plug and socket are connected in use, the aperture(s) on the electrical socket is / are arranged to receive the hollow pin(s) on the electrical plug to form fluid communication conduit(s), which enable fluid communication between the interior of the electrical plug and the electrical socket. Preferably, all of the hollow pins on the electrical plug may be received by corresponding apertures on the electrical socket to form fluid communication conduits, which enable fluid-communication between the electrical plug and the electrical socket. The hollow pin(s) may have a transverse cross-sectional shape that is complementary to the cross-sectional shape of the aperture(s). The hollow pin(s) may have a length extending from the connecting face of the electrical plug that is less than the length of the electrical plug pins. This allows for the connecting faces of the electrical plug and the electrical socket to abut after the electrical pins of the electrical plug have been connected in the socket apertures and ensures that a secure connection is made between the electrical plug and the electrical socket when connected in use. The diameter, length, and cross-sectional shape of the hollow pin(s) and corresponding aperture(s) may be arranged so that when the electrical plug and socket are connected in use, the connection between the hollow pin(s) and aperture(s) may comprise a leak-proof seal. The shape and size of the hollow pin(s) and aperture(s) may be varied to suit the size and nature of the electrical plug and socket.

[0036] In further embodiments, the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket further comprises at least one heat and / or smoke sensor, associated with the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The electrical plug and / or the electrical socket may comprise at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, or at least 10 heat and / or smoke sensors.

[0037] The heat and / or smoke sensor may be located on the inside and / or the outside of the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The heat and / or smoke sensor may be located within the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. Preferably, the heat and / or smoke sensor is located within the electrical socket.

[0038] In preferred embodiments, the heat and / or smoke sensor may be positioned proximal to, or close to, at least one electrical component of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. There may be a heat and / or smoke sensor next to more than one or all of the electrical components in the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. In some embodiments there is a heat and / or smoke sensor adjacent to at least the wiring in the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. This enables rapid detection of any heat and / or smoke from any electrical components of the electrical plug and socket which may cause a fire.

[0039] The heat and / or smoke sensor may be an ionisation sensor, an optical sensor, a heat sensor, or a multi-sensor sensor that detects both heat and smoke. Preferably, the heat and / or smoke sensor is a gas sensor.

[0040] In further embodiments, the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket further comprises at least one container containing a fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fireprevention material, wherein the at least one container is associated with the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The electrical plug and / or the electrical socket may comprise at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, or at least 10 containers containing the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fireprevention material.

[0041] The, or each, heat and / or smoke sensor may be operably connected to the at least one container containing the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material. In some embodiments, when heat and / or smoke is detected by a heat and / or smoke sensor associated with the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket, the heat and / or smoke sensor triggers the release of the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material from the or at least one container.

[0042] In some embodiments, the container containing the fire-retarding, fireextinguishing, or fire-prevention material is contained within the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. Preferably, the container may be contained within the housing of the electrical socket.

[0043] The container may be arranged to release, dispense, or spray the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material into the housing directly upon actuation. Alternatively, the container may rupture upon actuation. The container may comprise a valve or puncturing mechanism. The container may dispense or release the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material through a release valve or puncturing mechanism when the valve or puncturing mechanism is activated upon receipt of a signal from the or each heat and / or smoke sensor.

[0044] The container may release or dispense the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire prevention material into a conduit upon actuation. The conduit may track or encapsulate electrical wiring within the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material may be dispensed through at least one aperture positioned along the length of the conduit and / or out of at least one terminal end of the conduit. The conduit may have a plurality of apertures positioned along its length. The conduit may have multiple apertures configured to enable dispensing of the fire -retarding, fire-extinguishing or fire-prevention material along the whole length of said conduit substantially simultaneously. The conduit may be arranged to dispense the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material at multiple locations within the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The conduit may be configured such that at least a portion of the electrical wiring is positioned within the conduit. The conduit may be configured such that it at least partially surrounds or encapsulated the electrical wiring. Electrical wiring may extend through the conduit. In use, the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing or fire-prevention material is dispensed along at least a portion of the conduit containing the electrical wiring when heat and / or smoke is detected by the heat and / or smoke sensor.

[0045] In other embodiments, one or more containers may not be contained within the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. Instead, one or more containers may be external to, or remote from, the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. In such embodiments, the one or more containers may further comprise a delivery mechanism for delivering the fire -retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material from the container to the interior of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket upon actuation of the container. The delivery mechanism may comprise a conduit that connects the container to the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. Upon actuation of the container, the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material may be released or dispensed through the conduit to the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The conduit may be arranged to track or encapsulate electrical wiring associated with the electrical plug and socket and / or its components. The conduit may be as described above. The conduit may comprise apertures or be perforated along at least part of the conduit. The conduit may comprise at least one aperture at an end of the conduit located in the electrical plug or socket. The conduit may comprise apertures or perforations along at least part of the length of the conduit and at an end located in the electrical plug or socket. In such embodiments the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material may be dispensed out of the or each aperture into the electrical plug or socket and adjacent to any wiring or other electrical components which the conduit tracks.

[0046] Preferably, the container is contained within the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket and ruptures or is ruptured upon actuation. This enables the rapid and direct distribution of the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material to the interior of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket via the fluid-flow conduits when the electrical plug and socket are connected in use.

[0047] In some embodiments, the container may be affixed to the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket.

[0048] In other embodiments, the container may form part of the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. For example, the housing may comprise an inner and outer wall wherein the inner and outer walls define a container for the fire-retarding, fireextinguishing, or fire-prevention material. The walls containing the fire-retarding, fireextinguishing, or fire-prevention material may act as described above to release the fireretarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material; for example, the walls may be arranged to dispense the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material inwardly into the rest of the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket.

[0049] The container containing the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material may be replaceable or refillable.

[0050] The container may be rigid or flexible. Flexible containers may be better suited to fit into the housing of electrical plugs and / or the electrical sockets which are compact, or for retrofitting into existing electrical plugs and / or the electrical sockets.

[0051] The fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material may be selected from the group consisting of: liquified gas, gas, a compressible material, compressed gas, foam, compressed foam, powder, compressed powders and any combination thereof. Preferably, the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material is a compressed gas, more preferably compressed CO2. Compressed gas may be more advantageous as once released from the container, it rapidly expands, transferring between the interior of the electrical plug and socket via the fluid communication conduits when the electrical plug and socket are connected in use. Therefore, the compressed gas reaches the source of the heat and / or smoke rapidly and very quickly smothers the fire, or rapidly starves the fire of oxygen. Compressed gas also provides the advantage that as it expands it also cools, thus cooling the fire and / or hot component and increasing the fire prevention and / or extinguishing efficiency.

[0052] In preferred embodiments, when the electrical plug and socket are connected in use, any heat and / or smoke that may emanate from the electrical plug can transfer to the electrical socket through a plurality of connected fluid-flow conduits. Alternatively, heat and / or smoke may emanate from the electrical socket and can transfer to the electrical plug through a plurality of connected fluid-flow conduits. A heat and / or smoke sensor may then detect the heat and / or smoke emanating from the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The heat and / or smoke sensor may then trigger the release of a fireretarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material from a container associated with one of the electrical plug or the electrical socket. Once released from the container, the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material is contained within, and spreads throughout, the one of the electrical plug or the electrical socket in which the container is associated, and can also transfer to the other of the electrical plug or the electrical socket via the connected fluid-conduits. In such embodiments, a fire is prevented and / or extinguished rapidly at the source, thus preventing the spread of the fire and reduces the potential harm to the building or individuals in the immediate vicinity. In addition, the electrical plug and socket may also comprise pressure release points to prevent explosion of the electrical pug and / or the electrical socket upon release of the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material from the container.

[0053] In further embodiments, the electrical plug and socket may further comprise a control and monitoring board associated with the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket and that operably connects the, or each, heat and / or smoke sensor to one or more containers containing the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire -prevention material. The control and monitoring board may control one or more heat and / or smoke sensors in the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The control and monitoring board enables the controlled release of the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material from the container when heat and / or smoke is detected in the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The control and monitoring board may further operably connect the, or each, heat and / or smoke sensor to a circuit breaker. The circuit breaker may be configured to cut off the supply of electricity to the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket when heat and / or smoke is detected by the heat and / or smoke sensor. The circuit breaker may be located within the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The circuit breaker may be located external to the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket.

[0054] The control and monitoring board may be located within the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The control and monitoring board may be located external to the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket.

[0055] In preferred embodiments, when the electrical plug and socket are connected in use, upon detection of heat and / or smoke by a heat and / or smoke sensor, a container is arranged to release fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material to the source of the heat and / or smoke in the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket via the fluid communication conduit(s), as well cutting off the supply of electricity to the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. This prevents a fire from starting and / or reduces the chances of a fire spreading.

[0056] In a further embodiment, the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket further comprises at least one warning light and / or sound alarm associated with the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The warning light and / or sound alarm may be positioned so that it is clearly visible to and / or is heard by the user. For example, the warning light and / or sound alarm may be positioned on an external part of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket housing which is visible when the electrical plug and socket are connected. The warning light and / or sound alarm may be located external to the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The warning light and / or sound alarm may illuminate and / or emit a sound when a heat and / or smoke sensor detects heat and / or smoke in the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The warning light and / or sound alarm may illuminate and / or emit a sound when the container containing the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material has been activated. The warning light and / or sound alarm may illuminate and / or emit a sound when the container containing the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material requires changing or replacing. When illuminated, the warning light may be solid or flashing.

[0057] In a further embodiment, the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket further comprise a data receiver and / or transmitter associated with the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The data receiver and / or transmitter may be a Bluetooth or WIFI receiver and / or transmitter. The data receiver and / or transmitter may be operable to send data to and / or receive data from an external computing device. The data receiver and / or transmitter may send data to an external computing device upon receiving a signal from the control and monitoring board. For example, the data may be a warning signal to the owners external computing device, for example a phone. A warning signal has the advantage of alerting the user to the fire, or a potential fire. The data receiver and / or transmitter may operably connect the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket to an existing, or external, fire alarm or fire prevention system. The data receiver and / or transmitter may be located within the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The data receiver and / or transmitter may be located external to the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. In embodiments where one or more electrical component(s) of the electrical plug and socket, or those associated therewith (i.e. the control and monitoring board, the circuit breaker, and / or the warning light and / or sensor), is / are located external to the housing of the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket, the or each electrical component may be connected to the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket via electrical wiring and a conduit. The or each conduit may track or encapsulate the electrical wiring that connects the or each electrical component to the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket. The or each conduit may be connected to the container containing the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material. Upon actuation of the container, the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire prevention material may be released or dispensed through the conduit. The conduit may be as described above. The conduit may comprise apertures or be perforated along at least part of the conduit. The conduit may comprise at least one aperture at an end of the conduit located in the electrical plug or socket. The conduit may comprise apertures or perforations along at least part of the length of the conduit and at an end located in the electrical plug or socket. In such embodiments the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material may be dispensed out of the or each aperture into the electrical plug or socket and adjacent to any wiring or other electrical components which the conduit tracks.

[0058] According to a second aspect of the invention, the electrical plug and socket according to the first aspect of the invention for use in preventing and / or extinguishing electrical fires.

[0059] According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of connecting the electrical plug and socket as claimed in any preceding claim, to enable fluid communication between the electrical plug and socket, the method comprising the step of connecting the electrical plug and socket such that each fluid-flow conduit of the electrical plug connects to each fluid-flow conduit of the electrical socket to form one or more fluid communication conduits between the interiors of the electrical plug and the electrical socket.

[0060] According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided an electrical plug comprising at least one electrical pin and at least one fluid-flow conduit extending from the exterior of the electrical plug to the interior of the electrical plug.

[0061] The electrical plug may be as described in the first aspect of the invention. The electrical plug may comprise any one or any combination of the preferred and optional features defined and described for the electrical plug of the first aspect of the invention.

[0062] The electrical plug may comprise at least one, at least 5, at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, or at least 100 fluid-flow conduit(s). Preferably, the electrical plug may comprise a plurality of fluid-flow conduits.

[0063] According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided an electrical socket comprising at least one aperture arranged in use to receive an electrical pin of an electrical plug and at least one fluid-flow conduit extending from the exterior of the electrical socket to the interior of the electrical socket.

[0064] The electrical socket may be as described in the first aspect of the invention. The electrical socket may comprise any one or any combination of the preferred and optional features defined and described for the electrical socket of the first aspect of the invention. The electrical socket may comprise at least one, at least 5, at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, or at least 100 fluid-flow conduit(s). Preferably, the electrical socket may comprise a plurality of fluid-flow conduits.

[0065] According to a sixth aspect of the invention there is provided an electrical device comprising an electrical plug of the fourth aspect of the invention or an electrical socket of the fifth aspect of the invention.

[0066] The article may be any suitable electrical device, such as, but not limited to a computer, a circuit board, an article of electrical fast moving consumer goods or white goods (e.g. a lamp, washing machine, dishwasher, refrigerator, freezer, cooker, microwave oven, audio-visual equipment, lighting, computer peripherals, an electrical charging device, a telecommunications device and the like).

[0067] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0068] In order that the invention may be more clearly understood embodiments thereof will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, of which:

[0069] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a first embodiment of an electrical plug and socket of the invention, wherein the electrical plug and socket are not connected and comprise a plurality plug fluid-flow conduits and a plurality of socket fluid-flow conduits. Figure 2 illustrates a front view of the connecting faces of a second embodiment of an electrical plug and socket of the invention, the embodiment being similar to Figure 1 where like numerals represent like components.

[0070] Figure 3 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of an electrical plug and socket, the embodiment being similar to Figures 1 and 2 where like numerals represent like components; and wherein (a) the electrical plug and socket are not connected, and (b) the electrical plug and socket are connected in use; and wherein the electrical socket further comprises a heat and / or smoke sensor and a container.

[0071] Figure 4 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of an electrical plug and socket of the invention; the embodiment being similar to Figures 1 to 3 where like numerals represent like components, except the fourth embodiment of the electrical plug and socket comprises an additional heat and / or smoke sensor and an additional container.

[0072] Figure 5 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment of an electrical plug and socket of the invention, wherein (a) the electrical plug and socket are not connected and (b) the electrical plug and socket are connected, and wherein the electrical plug comprises a heat and / or smoke sensor and a container.

[0073] Figure 6 illustrates side cross-sectional views of a sixth embodiment of an electrical plug and socket of the invention, not connected, and wherein the electrical plug comprises a heat and / or smoke sensor and the electrical socket comprises a heat and / or smoke sensor and a container. Figure 7 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a seventh embodiment of an electrical plug and socket of the invention; the embodiment being similar to Figure 3 where like numerals represent like components, except wherein the seventh embodiment of the electrical plug and socket further comprises a control and monitoring board, a data receiver and / or transporter, and a warning light and / or sound alarm.

[0074] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a first embodiment of an electrical plug and socket 1 according to the invention. The electrical plug and socket 1 comprises an electrical plug 10 and an electrical socket 20.

[0075] The electrical plug 10 comprises a plug housing 32 which includes electrical plug pins 50 extending therefrom and a plug connecting face 42. The plug housing 32 further comprises a plurality of hollow fluid-flow conduits in the form of fluid- flow pins 70.

[0076] The electrical socket 20 comprises a socket housing 30 which includes electrical socket apertures 60 and a socket connecting face 40. The socket housing 30 further comprises a plurality of fluid-flow conduits in the form of fluid-flow apertures 72.

[0077] A plurality of fluid-flow pins 70 and fluid-flow apertures 72 are preferred to ensure effective fluid communication between the interior of the electrical plug 10 and the electrical socket 20 when connected in use, and to ensure that fluid-flow occurs into and throughout substantially all internal areas of the electrical plug and socket 1 (i.e. inside the plug housing 32 and the socket housing 30).

[0078] The fluid-flow pins 70 extend from the exterior of the electrical plug 10 to the interior of the electrical plug 10. The fluid-flow pins 70 are hollow pins. The fluid-flow pins 70 are positioned on, and through, the plug connecting face 42. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the fluid-flow pins 70 are cylindrical and shorter in length than the electrical plug pins 50.

[0079] The fluid-flow apertures 72 extend from the exterior of the electrical socket 20 to the interior of the electrical socket 20. The fluid-flow apertures 72 are located on, and through, the socket connecting face 40. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the fluidflow apertures 72 are circular and their shape and size is complementary to the cross- sectional shape of the fluid-flow pins 70 on the electrical plug 10.

[0080] In alternative embodiments, where there are fewer fluid- flow pins and fluid-flow apertures, for example, only 1-4 fluid-flow conduits, the fluid-flow conduits may be larger in size (i.e. having a greater cross-sectional area or diameter) than in the embodiment described in Figure 1, in which there are a plurality of fluid- flow conduits. This is to enable an effective amount of fluid- flow between the interior of the electrical plug and socket. In such embodiments, the fluid-flow pins and fluid- flow apertures may be similar in size to the electrical plug pins and corresponding electrical socket apertures, respectively.

[0081] The socket housing 30 and / or the plug housing 32 contain electrical connections, wires, fuses and the like, for example.

[0082] The electrical plug 10 is connected to the electrical socket 20, or vice versa, by the electrical plug pins 50 connecting with the corresponding electrical socket apertures 60 that receive the electrical plug pins 50, thus enabling the socket connecting face 40 to abut with the plug connecting face 42.

[0083] The fluid-flow pins 70 and fluid-flow apertures 72 are configured so that when the electrical plug 10 and electrical socket 20 are connected in use, the fluid-flow pins 70 are received by the fluid-flow apertures 72 so that the plug connecting face 42 can abut the socket connecting face 40 and a secure connection is made between the electrical plug 10 and the electrical socket 20. The shape and size of the fluid-flow apertures 72 are complementary to the fluid- flow pins 70 so that upon connection of the electrical plug 10 and the electrical socket 20, a leak-proof seal is formed between the electrical plug 10 and the electrical socket 20, and around the fluid-flow pins 70 and the fluid-flow apertures 72.

[0084] Figure 2 illustrates a front view of a second embodiment of an electrical plug and socket of the invention. The embodiment of Figure 2 is similar to the first embodiment described in Figure 1 and like numerals represent like components. In this front view, it is shown that the fluid-flow pins 70 comprise a central aperture 71. The central aperture 71 allows for fluid communication between the interior of the electrical plug 10 and the electrical socket 20 via the fluid-flow pins 70 of the electrical plug 10 and the fluid-flow apertures 72 of the electrical socket 20.

[0085] Figures 3 to 7 show side cross-sectional views of third to seventh embodiments of an electrical plug and socket of the invention. For clarity, Figures 3 to 7 focus solely on the inventive components of the electrical plug and socket of the invention, and therefore known components of an electrical plug and socket, such as the electrical plug pins and corresponding socket apertures, are not shown.

[0086] Figures 3a and 3b illustrate side cross-sectional views of a third embodiment of an electrical plug and socket of the invention. The fifth embodiment is similar to the first and second embodiments described in Figures 1 and 2, where like numerals represent like components; except the third embodiment further comprises a heat and / or smoke sensor 82 and a container 84 containing a fire -retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material, both of which are located in the electrical socket 20.

[0087] The heat and / or smoke sensor 82 is positioned in the socket housing 30. The container 84 containing the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material is also positioned in the socket housing 30. In other embodiments not shown, the container 84 may be located outside of the socket housing 30. The heat and / or smoke sensor 82 is operably connected to the container 84 containing the fire-retarding, fireextinguishing, or fire-prevention material. The heat and / or smoke sensor 82 and the container 84 are positioned proximal to, or close to, the to the fluid-flow apertures 72. The heat and / or smoke sensor 82 and the container 84 are positioned proximal to, or close to, any electrical components in the electrical plug 10 and / or the electrical socket 20.

[0088] Figure 3b illustrates the electrical plug 10 and electrical socket 20 connected in use. When the electrical plug 10 and electrical socket 20 are connected in use, any heat and / or smoke that may emanate from the electrical plug 10 can transfer to the electrical socket 20 through the plurality of connected fluid- flow pins 70 and fluid- flow apertures 72. Alternatively, heat and / or smoke may emanate from the electrical socket 20. The heat and / or smoke is then detected by the heat and / or smoke sensor 82 in the electrical socket 20. The heat and / or smoke sensor 81 then triggers the release of the fire-retarding, fireextinguishing, or fire-prevention material from the container 84 in the electrical socket 20. Once released from the container 84, the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fireprevention material is contained within, and spreads throughout, the socket housing 30, and can also transfer to the electrical plug 10 via the connected fluid-flow pins 70 and fluid-flow apertures 72. In this embodiment, a fire is prevented and / or extinguished rapidly at the source, thus preventing the spread of the fire and reduces the potential harm to the building or individuals in the immediate vicinity. The heat and / or smoke sensor 82 and the container 84 are positioned close to the fluid-flow pins 70 and the fluid-flow apertures 72, and to any electrical components in the socket 20. This is so that heat and / or smoke is rapidly detected by the heat and / or smoke sensor 82, and so that the fireretarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material can rapidly transfer to the source of the heat and / or smoke through the plurality of connected fluid- flow pins 70 and fluidflow apertures 72 upon actuation of the container 84.

[0089] In embodiments where the container 84 is located outside of the socket housing 30, the container 84 may be connected to the electrical socket 20 via a conduit into which the fire retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material can be released and rapidly delivered to the source of the heat and / or smoke.

[0090] In an alternative embodiment, there may be one or more additional heat and / or smoke sensors, and / or containers associated with the electrical socket. Figure 4 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of an electrical plug and socket 1 of the invention. The fourth embodiment comprises similar components to the first to third embodiments described in Figures 1 to 3, wherein like numerals represent like components. However, the fourth embodiment further comprises a second heat and / or smoke sensor 81 and a second container 83 containing a fire-retarding, fire extinguishing, or fire-prevention material, both of which are located in the electrical socket 20.

[0091] The second heat and / or smoke sensor 81 and the second container 83 are positioned in the socket housing 30. The second heat and / or smoke sensor 81 is operably connected to the second container 83. In such embodiments, one of the sensors may be a heat sensor and the other a smoke sensor. In an alternative embodiment, two heat and / or smoke sensors may be operably connected to the same container.

[0092] Figure 5 illustrates side cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment of an electrical plug and socket 2 of the invention. The electrical plug and socket 2 comprises an electrical plug 13 and an electrical socket 23.

[0093] The electrical socket 23 comprises a plurality of fluid-flow apertures 73 and a socket housing 36. The fluid-flow apertures 73 and the socket housing 36 are substantially the same as the fluid-flow apertures 72 and the socket housing 30 of the first to third embodiments described in Figures 1 to 3.

[0094] The electrical plug 13 comprises a plurality of fluid- flow pins 71 and a plug housing 34. The fluid- flow pins 71 and the plug housing 34 are substantially the same as the fluid-flow pins 70 and the socket housing 32 of the first to third embodiments described in Figures 1 to 3.

[0095] The electrical plug 13 comprises a heat and / or smoke sensor 86 and a container 88 containing a fire-retarding, fire extinguishing, or fire-prevention material. The heat and / or smoke sensor 86 and the container 88 are located in the plug housing 34. In other embodiments not shown, the container 88 may be located outside of the plug housing 34. The heat and / or smoke sensor 86 and the container 88 are located proximal to, or close to, the fluid-flow pins 71. The heat and / or smoke sensor 86 is also positioned proximal to, or close to, any electrical components of the electrical plug 13. The heat and / or smoke sensor 86 is operably connected to the container 88 containing the fire-retarding, fireextinguishing, or fire-prevention material. Figure 5b shows the electrical plug and socket 2 connected in use. When the electrical plug and socket 2 are connected in use, any heat and / or smoke that may emanate from the electrical socket 23 can transfer to the electrical plug 13 through the plurality of connected fluid-flow apertures 73 and fluid-flow pins 71. Alternatively, heat and / or smoke may emanate from the electrical plug 13. The heat and / or smoke is then detected by the heat and / or smoke sensor 86 in the electrical plug 13. The heat and / or smoke sensor 86 then triggers the release of the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fireprevention material from the container 88 in the electrical plug 13. Once released from the container 88, the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material is contained within, and spreads throughout, the plug housing 34, and can also transfer to the electrical socket 23 via the plurality of connected fluid- flow pins 71 and fluid- flow apertures 73. In this embodiment, a fire is prevented and / or extinguished rapidly at the source, thus preventing the spread of the fire and reduces the potential harm to the building or individuals in the immediate vicinity.

[0096] In embodiments where the container 88 is located outside of the plug housing 30, the container 88 may be connected to the electrical plug 13 via a conduit into which the fire retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material can be released and rapidly delivered to the source of the heat and / or smoke.

[0097] In a further embodiment not shown, there may be one or more additional heat and / or smoke sensors and / or containers associated with the electrical plug. In such embodiments, one of the heat and / or smoke sensors may detect heat and the other smoke. Figure 6 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a sixth embodiment of an electrical plug and socket 3 of the invention. The electrical plug and socket 3 comprises an electrical plug 14 and an electrical socket 24.

[0098] The electrical plug 14 comprises a plurality of fluid-flow pins 74 and a plug housing 38. The fluid- flow pins 74 and the plug housing 38 are substantially the same as the fluid-flow pins 70 and the plug housing 32 of the first to third embodiments described in Figures 1 to 3.

[0099] The electrical socket 24 comprises a plurality of fluid-flow apertures 75 and a socket housing 39. The fluid-flow apertures 75 and the socket housing 38 are substantially the same as the fluid-flow apertures 72 and the socket housing 30 of the first to third embodiments described in Figures 1 to 3.

[0100] The electrical plug 14 further comprises a first heat and / or smoke sensor 89 and the electrical socket 24 further comprises a second heat and / or smoke sensor 85 and a container 87 containing a fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material. The first heat and / or smoke sensor is located in the plug housing 38. The first heat and / or smoke sensor 89 is located proximal to, or close to, the fluid- flow pins 89. The first heat and / or smoke sensor 89 is also located proximal to, or close to, any electrical components in the electrical plug 14. The second heat and / or smoke sensor 85 and the container 87 are located in the socket housing 39. The second heat and / or smoke sensor 85 and the container 87 are located proximal to, or close to, the fluid-flow apertures 75. The second heat and / or smoke sensor 85 and the container 87 are also located proximal to, or close to, any electrical components in the electrical socket 24. Both of the first heat and / or smoke sensor 89 and the second heat and / or smoke sensor 85 are operably connected to the container 87 containing the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material.

[0101] In this embodiment, when the electrical plug 14 and the electrical socket 24 are connected in use (not shown), any heat and / or smoke that emanates from the electrical plug 14 or the electrical socket 24 can be rapidly detected by either of the first heat and / or smoke sensor 89 in the electrical plug 14 or the second heat and / or smoke sensor 85 in the electrical socket 24. Either of the first and / or second heat and / or smoke sensors 89, 85 then triggers the release of the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material from the container 87 in the electrical socket 24. Once released from the container 87, the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material is contained within, and spreads throughout the socket housing 39 and can transfer to the source of the heat and / or smoke in the electrical plug 14 or the electrical socket 24 via the plurality of connected fluid- flow pins 74 and fluid-flow apertures 75. The advantage of having two heat and / or smoke sensors is that the heat and / or smoke can be rapidly detected at source and the fire prevented and / or extinguished by rapidly delivering the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material to the fire source, or potential fire source. In some embodiments, one of the heat and / or smoke sensor may be a heat sensor and the other a smoke sensor.

[0102] Figure 7 shows a side cross-sectional view of a seventh embodiment of an electrical plug and socket 1 of the invention. The seventh embodiment is similar to the third embodiment described in Figure 3, wherein like numerals represent like components. However, the seventh embodiment further comprises a control and monitoring board 96, a data receiver and / or transmitter 97 and a warning light and / or sound alarm 98. In the embodiment shown in Figure 7, the further components are located in the socket housing 30. However, in alternative embodiments, each of the further components may optionally be located in the plug housing, or external to the plug and socket.

[0103] The control and monitoring board 96 operably connects the heat and / or smoke sensor 82 to the container 84 containing the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fireprevention material. The heat and / or smoke sensor 82 is operably connected to the data receiver and / or transmitter 97. The warning light and / or sound alarm 98 is located on the external face of the socket housing 30 in a position that is clearly visible or heard by the user.

[0104] When the electrical plug and socket 1 is connected in use, the control and monitoring board 96 allows for the controlled release of the fire-retarding, fireextinguishing, or fire-prevention material from the container 84 when heat and / or smoke is detected by the heat and / or smoke sensor 82. The control and monitoring board 96 also operably connects the heat and / or smoke sensor 82 to a circuit breaker (not shown) that cuts off the supply of electricity to the electrical plug 10 and / or the electrical socket 20 when heat and / or smoke is detected by the heat and / or smoke sensor 82. Cutting of the supply of electricity to the electrical plug 10 and / or the electrical socket 20 prevents the fire from sparking and / or spreading further.

[0105] When the electrical plug and socket 1 is connected in use, the data receiver and / or transmitter 97 may send data to an external computing device upon receiving a signal from the heat and / or smoke sensor 82. For example, the data may be a warning signal to the owners external computing device, for example a phone. A warning signal has the advantage of alerting the user to the fire, or potential fire, thus allowing the user to turn off the electricity supply to the electrical plug 10 and / or the electrical socket 20 and / or vacate the area. The data receiver and / or transmitter 87 also sends data to an existing fire alarm or prevention system upon receiving a signal from the heat and / or smoke sensor.

[0106] When the electrical plug and socket 1 is connected in use, the warning light and / or sound alarm 98 is capable of illuminating and / or sounding when the heat and / or smoke sensor 82 detects heat and / or smoke in the electrical plug 10 and / or the electrical socket 20. The warning light and / or sound alarm 88 has the advantage of alerting the user to the fire, or potential fire, thus allowing the user to turn of the electricity supply to the electrical plug 10 and / or the electrical socket 20 and / or vacate the area.

[0107] Another benefit of the electrical plug and socket according to the invention is that when connected in use, the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material can spread throughout the interior of the electrical plug and transfer to the electrical socket via the fluid- flow conduits, or vice versa, thus quenching and / or preventing a fire in two locations or more. Additionally, the electrical plug and socket according to the invention ensures that a fire that starts in one of the electrical plug or the electrical socket doesn’t inadvertently transfer into the other when the electrical plug and socket are connected in use and spread further.

[0108] Although, the above examples and embodiments are to the electrical plug and socket together, the same can apply to an electrical plug alone, or to an electrical socket alone.

[0109] The above embodiments are described by way of example only. Many variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An electrical plug and socket, wherein the electrical plug comprises at least one electrical pin and the electrical socket comprises at least one aperture arranged in use to receive the electrical pin of the electrical plug, and wherein the electrical plug comprises at least one fluid-flow conduit extending from the exterior of the electrical plug to the interior of the electrical plug, and wherein the electrical socket comprises at least one fluid-flow conduit extending from the exterior of the electrical socket to the interior of the electrical socket, and wherein, in use, when the electrical plug and socket are connected, each fluid-flow conduit of the electrical plug connects to a corresponding fluid-flow conduit of the electrical socket to form one or more fluid communication conduit(s) between the interiors of the electrical plug and socket.

2. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in claim 1 , wherein each plug fluidflow conduit is a male member and each socket fluid- flow conduit is a female member arranged to receive a male member of the electrical plug when the electrical plug and socket are connected, in use.

3. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in claim 1 or 2 wherein the electrical plug comprises a connecting face and the electrical socket comprises a connecting face, and wherein the electrical plug comprises a plurality of male members projecting from the connecting face of the electrical plug, and the electrical socket comprises a plurality of female members formed through the connecting face of the electrical socket.

4. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in claim 2 or 3, wherein at least one plug male member comprises a hollow pin and at least one socket female member comprises an aperture.

5. An electrical plug as claimed in claim 4, wherein when the electrical plug and socket are connected, all of the hollow pin(s) on the electrical plug are received by the aperture(s) on the electrical socket to form fluid-flow communication conduit(s), which enable fluid communication between the electrical plug and socket.

6. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the electrical plug comprises a plurality of fluid-flow conduits and the electrical socket comprises an equivalent number of socket fluid-flow conduits oriented to connect to the plug fluid-flow conduits when the electrical plug and socket are connected in use.

7. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the connection between the plug fluid- flow conduits and socket fluid- flow conduits comprises a leak-proof seal between the electrical plug and the electrical socket when the electrical plug and socket are connected, in use.

8. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising at least one heat and / or smoke sensor associated with the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket.

9. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in claim 8, further comprising at least one container containing a fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-preventionmaterial, wherein the at least one container is associated with the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket.

10. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in claim 9, wherein the heat and / or smoke sensor is operably connected to the at least one container containing the fire-retarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material.

11. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in claim 9 or 10, wherein the fireretarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material is selected from the group consisting of: a liquified gas, a gas, a compressible material, a compressed gas, a foam, a compressed foam, a powder, a compressed powder, or any combination thereof.

12. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in claim 11, wherein the fireretarding, fire-extinguishing, or fire-prevention material is a compressed gas; preferably compressed CO2.

13. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in claim any one of claims 9 to 12, further comprising a control and monitoring board associated with the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket that operably connects the heat and / or smoke sensor to the container containing the fire-retarding, fireextinguishing, or fire-prevention material.

14. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in claim 13, wherein the control and monitoring board further connects the heat and / or smoke sensor to a circuit breaker.

15. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a warning light and / or sound alarm associated with the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket.

16. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a Bluetooth or WIFI receiver and / or transmitter associated with the electrical plug and / or the electrical socket.

17. An electrical plug and socket as claimed in any preceding claim, for use in preventing and / or extinguishing electrical fires.

18. A method of connecting the electrical plug and socket as claimed in any preceding claim, to enable fluid communication between the electrical plug and the electrical socket, the method comprising the step of connecting the electrical plug and the electrical socket such that each fluid-flow conduit of the electrical plug connects to each fluid-flow conduit of the electrical socket to form one or more fluid communication conduits between the interiors of the electrical plug and the electrical socket.

19. An electrical plug comprising at least one electrical pin and at least one fluidflow conduit extending from the exterior of the electrical plug to the interior of the electrical plug.

20. An electrical plug as claimed in claim 19, wherein the electrical plug comprises a plurality fluid-flow conduits.

21. An electrical plug as claimed in claim 20, wherein the fluid-flow conduits comprise a plurality of hollow pins.

22. An electrical device comprising an electrical plug as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 21.

23. An electrical socket comprising at least one aperture arranged in use to receive the electrical pin of an electrical plug, in use, and at least one fluid-flow conduit extending from the exterior of the electrical socket to the interior of the electrical socket.

24. An electrical socket as claimed in claim 23, wherein the electrical socket comprises a plurality of fluid-flow conduits.

25. An electrical device comprising an electrical socket of claim 23 or 24.

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