Okay, I'll play devil's advocate here.
Cool, someone has to.
Where does the NEC specify that a required receptacle be only a straight-blade or "non-nubbed" type, or must or must not be of any particular configuration?
It does not, but it does require we use 15 or 20 amp 125 volt receptacles.
While a locking receptacle can meet this I bet the 'special purpose' receptacle is rated less than 15 amps.
Even if the receptacle is rated 15 or 20 amps I would also bet the circuit supplying it is not.
I doubt the home automation equipment uses an 1800 watt or larger dimmer for a table lamp.