What are these plastic "wings" for on Power adapters?

[metalphreak]

So I recently bought some wallplug power adapters for various projects, and the ones that came have these funny plastic "wings" on either side. It's really annoying because you can no longer plug two in next to each other on a standard power board or wall socket  I can't think of any legitimate reason why. It's not like a 5V 1A adapter is going to get very hot. The only thing I can think of, is that they use a similar fabrication mould for all versions (the size is similar to the chunky UK style plug)

Is there some kind of safety regulation that forced them to do this?

Pic:

[mikeselectricstuff]

My guess is it's to accommodate the full range of international variants, teh UK one being the biggest (and best of course).

[ziq8tsi]

It appears to say "100-240V", so they almost certainly make it with various pin configurations.  But recessed sockets like Schuko will need extra or different moulding protrusions anyway, so I am unsure of the benefit of leaving the UK wings on.

Still, better than the opposite problem of neglecting the clearance (and fuse) requirements of BS1363...

[deephaven]

Blimey, what's that from?

[Mechatrommer]

ergonomics?

[Zero999]

My guess is it's to accommodate the full range of international variants, teh UK one being the biggest (and best of course).

You're right, nothing beats the UK plug for safety and durability. I heard somewhere the EU were talking about standardising to an inferiour German plug but our government wouldn't have it. If they're going to standardise it, the EU should adopt the UK plug but that won't happen because it would be too expensive.

[Leo Bodnar]

ergonomics?

Up until you step on one in the darkness!  Ouch 
I like UK plug - it's large, ugly, bulletproof, traditionally unique and somehow likeable. 

[Sionyn]

yes nothing beats good old BS1363

[Mechatrommer]

ergonomics?

Up until you step on one in the darkness!  Ouch 
I like UK plug - it's large, ugly, bulletproof, traditionally unique and somehow likeable.  

will be more ouch in the dark as its built with ruggedness in mind. notice the small back footprint of the winged adapter? not just we can easily grab it and the wing protect your finger from reaching the wall plug (electricity?) it also can easily flip if you step on those metal pins, and the chance of it facing upward is lesser if it fall on the floor.