DE102021201374A1 - POWERED DRAIN CLEANER WITH FLEXIBLE STEM - Google Patents

Abstract

Drain cleaners are described that include rotatable drums that hold the drain cleaning cable. A motor and an optional gearbox are mounted on the rotating drum to rotate the drain cleaning cable. The drain cleaners can also include a cable clamp attached to the rotatable drum. The drain cleaners are configured so that the rotatable drum is free of positional preferences regardless of the orientation of the drain cleaner.

Description

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62 / 976,714, filed February 14, 2020.

FIELD

The present subject matter relates to drain cleaning machines, systems, and equipment used to perform drain cleaning.

BACKGROUND

Flexible shaft drain cleaners use a flexible cable enclosed in a non-rotating jacket. The cable and jacket are typically located in a circular channel of a drum. The drum rotates when the cable is pulled out of the drum. An electric motor is usually used to drive these machines. The motor is either enclosed in the drain cleaner and rotates with the drum, or the motor is stationary and is positioned outside the drum and drives the cable through several right angle gears.

Flexible shaft drain cleaners typically operate in a horizontal orientation in which the drum rotates about a vertically oriented shaft. This enables the cable to be neatly stacked around the inner drum duct. In addition, in versions of drain cleaners where the motor is enclosed in the drain cleaner and rotates with the drum, the weight of the motor prevents the drain cleaner from operating in a vertical orientation with the drum rotating about a horizontally oriented shaft.

For a variety of reasons described herein, it would be advantageous if a flexible shaft drain cleaner could be operated in a vertical orientation.

SUMMARY

The difficulties and disadvantages associated with the previous approaches are addressed in the present subject matter as follows.

In one aspect, the present subject matter provides a drain cleaner that includes a housing defining an interior hollow area. The drain cleaner also includes a rotatable drum disposed in the interior hollow area defined by the housing. The drum can be rotated about an axis of rotation. The drain cleaner also includes an electric motor that is secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum. The drain cleaner also includes a counterweight that is secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum.

In another aspect, the present article provides a drain cleaner that includes a housing defining an interior hollow area. The drain cleaner also includes a rotatable drum disposed in the interior hollow area defined by the housing. The drum can be rotated about an axis of rotation. The drain cleaner also includes an electric motor that is secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum. The drain cleaner also includes a cable clamp that is secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum. The cable clamp defines (i) a recessed cable passage area along an underside of the cable clamp and (ii) at least one heat transfer fin along an exterior of the cable clamp.

In another aspect, the present subject matter provides a drain cleaner comprising: a housing defining a hollow interior region; a drum defining an inner surface and a channel in which a cable and jacket are disposed, the drum being disposed in the housing and rotatable about a horizontally disposed axis; a motor removably secured to the inner surface of the drum at a first location; a gear detachably secured to the inner surface of the drum at a second location spaced from the first location; and a counterweight secured to or formed along the inner surface of the drum at a third location spaced from the first and second locations. The motor or the gearbox, or both the drum and the gearbox, are located radially outward from the axis of rotation of the drum. The improvement includes that the third location is spaced from the axis of rotation so that the drum is balanced.

As will be recognized, the subject matter described herein is capable of other and different embodiments, and its various details are capable of modification in various respects, all without departing from the claimed subject matter. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

Figure list

• 1 Figure 4 is a perspective, schematic view of an embodiment of a drain cleaner with the cover removed in association with an optional cart, in accordance with the present subject matter.
• 2 Figure 4 is an elevated view of the drain cleaner from FIG 1 with its attached cover.
• 3 Figure 3 is another elevated view of the drain cleaner 2 .
• 4th FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the drain cleaner taken through line IV-IV in FIG 2 .
• 5 Figure 3 is another elevated view of the drain cleaner 1 with the cover removed to illustrate additional details.
• the 6A-6J are assembly exploded views of the drain cleaner and cart 2 .
• 7th Figure 3 is a detailed, exploded assembly view of an outer drum and associated components.
• 8th Figure 3 is another detailed, exploded assembly view of the outer drum, an inner drum, and related components.
• 9 Figure 3 is another detailed, exploded assembly view of a drum housing and associated components.
• 10 Figure 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a counterweight used in certain versions of the drain cleaners of the present subject matter.
• 11 FIG. 13 is another perspective schematic view of the drain cleaner and cart of FIG 1 illustrating the counterweight and an engine.
• 12th Figure 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a cable clamp used in certain versions of the drain cleaners of the present subject matter.
• 13th FIG. 13 is another perspective schematic view of the drain cleaner and cart of FIG 1 illustrating the cable clamp and motor.
• 14th FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the drain cleaner taken along line IV-IV in FIG 2 and shows various components assembled inside the drain cleaner.
• 15th FIG. 14 is a partial sectional view of the drain cleaner of FIG 14th which illustrates in greater detail various bearings used in the drain cleaner.
• 16 Figure 13 is an exploded assembly view of a line winding system and support plates that are optionally used in the drain cleaners of the present subject matter.
• 17th FIG. 3 is a detailed perspective view of a component of the FIG 16 shown cord winding system.
• 18th FIG. 13 is another detailed perspective view of the FIG 17th line winding component shown.
• 19th Figure 13 is a perspective view of the drain cleaner including a plurality of gripping points.
• 20th Figure 3 is a partial perspective view of the drain cleaner illustrating additional aspects.
• 21 Figure 13 is a partially exploded assembly view of a primary drum support assembly illustrating additional aspects.
• 22nd illustrates an optional drain plug in a drum housing.
• 23 illustrates another embodiment of a cable clamp.
• 24 and 25th illustrate an optional i-coupling system used in certain embodiments.
• 26th Figure 3 is a view of another embodiment of a cable clamp.
• 27 Figure 3 is a partial view of another embodiment of a cable clamp.
• 28 FIG. 3 is a schematic cross section of the FIG 26th shown cable clamp and the associated assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Space is often limited when cleaning drains. Large drain cleaning machines that must be operated in a horizontal orientation, ie with a drum rotating around a vertical shaft, take up a lot of space. In drain cleaning machines that use an internal motor, the weight of the motor in the drum makes the drain cleaner run a problem. With a vertically oriented drain cleaner, it is difficult to slide the cord in or out of the drain cleaner when the motor is down the drum is located as the weight of the motor goes up into the Drum rotation must be pulled. Conversely, if the motor is at the top of the drum rotation, the cable can be accidentally or unintentionally pushed out of the drum if gravity rotates the drum so that the motor is at the bottom of the drum rotation. The present object aims to remedy these problems and to enable a drain cleaner to operate in a vertical orientation without these problems.

In many flexible shaft drain cleaners, the motor and typically a gearbox are secured to or are located on the drum, which rotates as the cable is pulled out. In accordance with the present subject matter, since the motor / gearbox is eccentric, i.e. H. radially outward of the drum's axis of rotation, a counterweight is added on an opposite side of the drum to counterbalance the weight of the motor / gearbox. The counterweight is sized, shaped and / or positioned so that when the drum rotates, and typically when the axis of rotation is in a horizontal orientation, the force required to pull cables from the drum is independent of rotation - or the angular position of the drum is the same. In certain embodiments, the motor is also attached to the drum at a slight incline or at a relatively small angle to facilitate adjustment or transition between a gear shaft and the cable. This feature avoids abrupt bends in the cable, which typically lead to later loss of strength in the cable. These aspects are described in more detail in this document.

As described herein, the present subject matter is directed to drain cleaners and their operation using a flexible shaft cable. Details of these drain cleaning machines, their operation, and flexible shaft cables are contained in the referenced parent application, U.S. Serial No. 16 / 420,383, filed May 23, 2019, which is incorporated herein by reference. The term "flexible shaft cable" as used herein refers to a flexible shaft or cable that may optionally include a sheath. It is understood, however, that the present subject matter is not limited to flexible shaft type drain cleaners, but includes other types of equipment as well. Although drain cleaners are known in which a cable is coiled within a housing of the drain cleaner and the cable is rotated about its axis by a motor, as in FIG U.S. Patent 7,367,077 described, there remains a need for an improved powered drain cleaner.

Additional aspects of drain cleaners in accordance with the present subject matter include, but are not limited to, the following.

Drum and case support

The drain cleaners of the present article include a drum or drum assembly, a support, and a drum housing. The drum housing can contain one or more optional wheels. The drum assembly is rotatable about an axis of rotation, is rotatably supported by the support, and is generally enclosed in the drum housing. In many embodiments, the support includes a plurality of feet extending through the drum housing so that the drum housing does not support the weight of the rotating drum assembly during operation and rotation of the drum assembly within the drum housing. Also, when the drain cleaner is in a vertical orientation, the feet lift the wheels off the floor to prevent inadvertent rolling of the drain cleaner. In many embodiments or applications, the drain cleaner is used in conjunction with a wheeled cart.

Counterweight

As previously described, the drain cleaners of the present article employ one or more counterweights that are secured to the rotatable drum assembly. In many embodiments, a single counterweight is used and configured to be relatively lightweight and to fit within the drum assembly. As can be understood, for weight reduction, the counterweight is selectively positioned and secured in one location on the drum assembly so that the moment of inertia of the weight of the counterweight with respect to the axis of rotation of the rotating drum is equal to the moment of inertia of the respective components, e.g. The engine / transmission and cable clamp, which is described in more detail herein. In many embodiments, the counterweight also extends in a curved manner to help balance the mass of the cable clamp and the mass of other components, as described more fully herein.

In a particular embodiment, the counterweight contains at least one section which extends along a curved axis. The counterweight is typically secured to the rotatable drum such that the curved axis of the at least a portion of the counterweight is concentric about the axis of rotation of the drum.

As described herein, in certain embodiments of the drain cleaners of the present article, the rotatable drum assembly has no positional preference. That is, if the drum assembly is set in rotation and then the source of rotational energy is removed or interrupted, the drum will rotate freely until it stops in a random rotational position, rather than a rotational position which is the result of an uneven distribution of the mass of the drum assembly around is the axis of rotation of the drum. This characteristic is evident when the drain cleaner and drum assembly are positioned in a non-horizontal orientation, and is particularly evident when the drain cleaner and drum assembly are in a vertical orientation. the 2-5 show the drain cleaner and drum assembly in a vertical orientation. the 14-15 show the drain cleaner and drum assembly in a horizontal orientation. In many embodiments of the present subject matter, this property is achieved by securing a configured counterweight to the drum assembly to compensate for unevenly distributed mass (es). In many embodiments, the counterweight is dimensioned, shaped and / or selectively arranged a certain radial distance from the axis of rotation of the drum that it balances the drum assembly, ie the drum and other components secured thereto.

Cable clamp

In many embodiments, the drain cleaners of the present article include a cable clamp that is secured to the rotatable drum assembly. The cable clamp promotes easy coupling and decoupling between the gearbox and the cable. Furthermore, once the cable is disconnected from the gearbox, it can be moved axially to disengage and remove it from the drum assembly. In many versions, the cable clamp is configured to also function as a heat sink, since portions of the cable generate a relatively large amount of heat in a bent or curved area that is typically along or near the cable clamp. Inspection holes in the cable clamp make it possible to check the position and condition of the jacket in the bent or curved area.

The drain cleaners of the present article use at least one cable clamp to secure at least a portion of the flexible shaft cable to the rotatable drum assembly. The cable clamp is typically secured with a plurality of fasteners, such as fasteners. B. threaded fasteners secured to the drum assembly. However, the present subject matter also includes securing the cable clamp to the reel assembly by other means. The cable clamp generally defines a recessed cable passage area along its underside and one or more heat transfer fins along its outer areas.

In many embodiments, the cable clamp extends closer to an annular channel within the drum than the embodiment shown in the referenced parent application, US Serial No. 16 / 420,383. In many embodiments, the cable clamp only contacts the cable jacket at spaced arcs along the cable while the surface of the drum is flat and inclined towards the bottom of the annular channel. In many embodiments, the arcs extend further away from the cable so as to provide cooling fins or fins for cooling the cable clamp and cable. In many embodiments it is relatively easy to either replace the cable clamp or to use a different sized cable clamp for different sized cables, e.g. B. a 3/8-inch versus a 1/2-inch cable.

In certain embodiments of the drain cleaners of the present subject matter, the cable clamp includes at least one, and typically a plurality of heat transfer fins. Generally, the heat transfer fins are located along one or more outer or peripheral areas of the cable clamp and serve to dissipate heat that is typically transferred from the underside of the cable clamp and often from a flexible shaft cable that extends within a passageway therealong the underside of the cable clamp is defined. In order to further promote the heat transfer from the cable clamp and its lamellas to the environment, the material of the cable clamp is chosen so that it has a relatively high thermal conductivity k of at least 10 W / m · k, preferably at least 50 W / m · k and in particular has at least 100 W / m · k. A non-limiting example of a preferred material for the cable clamp is aluminum or its alloys, which typically have a thermal conductivity of at least 50 W / m · k. It should be understood, however, that the cable clips of the present article can be formed from a wide variety of other materials.

Support plates

In many embodiments, one or more support plates, and typically a plurality of support plates, are provided along an exterior portion of the drum housing. The backing plates typically increase the rigidity of the drum housing and can also be used in place of nuts or other threaded fasteners to secure heavier or loaded components.

Since the drum housing is typically molded from plastic, the support plates distribute forces or other loads to prevent the plastic from breaking or breaking during operation or from impact or dropping the device.

In many versions, the support plates are formed from metal or other materials that have relatively high strength and / or durability. This allows other components to be attached to a stronger material than the plastic housing of the drum.

As described in more detail herein, the support plates for the motor mount and the support plates for the cable clamp can be configured to mate with the orientation pins / protrusions in the drum assembly, and the respective components can be threaded with fasteners, such as, e.g. B. screws, are secured to the drum assembly. In certain versions, the motor mount support plate includes threaded openings for receiving threaded fasteners to secure the motor to the drum assembly.

Precautions for using cables with multiple dimensions

The drain cleaners of the present article may include provisions to facilitate the use of flexible shafted cables of various sizes with the drain cleaner (s). These provisions include cable clamps that can be replaced with other cable clamps that are dimensioned and configured for a particular flexible shaft cable. These provisions also include spacers or washers that can be positioned between the motor or other components and the drum assembly to accommodate larger diameter cables.

bearings

The use of plain bearings with the drum assembly enables the flexible shaft type drain cleaner to operate in the vertical position. In many embodiments there are two sliding bearings, each with a shoulder for the axial load in addition to the radial loads that they take up. For example, each slide bearing can be made of bronze or some other acceptable material. In many embodiments, the plain bearings are housed in a bearing housing that is mounted on the drum assembly. The bearing housing receives a shaft that is attached to the housing. The shaft is secured within an annular projection with a retaining ring at the distal end of the shaft and may also include a thrust washer trapped between the sliding bearing and the retaining ring. These aspects are described in more detail in this document.

Thrust bearings

In many embodiments, a thrust bearing is positioned near a bearing housing near the center of the drum assembly and enables the flexible shaft type drain cleaner to operate in a horizontal position. In many embodiments, the thrust bearing is removable and therefore exchangeable. The thrust bearing can be attached using threaded fasteners. In many embodiments, the axial bearing rests on an axial surface provided by the drum housing. These aspects are described in more detail in this document.

Telescopic handle

In many embodiments, the cart associated with the drain cleaners includes a telescopic handle. In certain versions, the handle of the cart contains spring-loaded pins that engage both a frame tube and a handle tube. The handle can also have a catch pin that engages when the pins are pulled past the handle holes. These aspects are described in more detail in this document.

Drain cleaner embodiments

the 1-5 illustrate one embodiment of a drain cleaner 10 according to the subject matter. The drain cleaner 10 is in a vertical orientation with an optional cart 250 shown. The drain cleaner 10 is optional on the car 250 attachable, detachable and / or detachable. The car 250 includes at least one wheel and typically uses two or four wheels. The car 250 may also have six wheels (not shown) with an additional pair of wheels on opposite sides of an outwardly protruding support 23A ( 61 ) might be appropriate. The drain cleaner 10 includes a drum housing 20th and a housing cover 160 . In accordance with the present disclosure, the drum housing is 20th generally cylindrical. And the case cover 160 is on the drum housing 20th secured to thereby create a hollow inner region of the drum housing 20th to enclose. the 1 and 5 illustrate how the case cover 160 is removed to the inner area of the drum housing 20th to expose. the 2-4 show the housing cover 160 on the drum housing 20th is attached.

the 6A-6J are exploded assembly views of the drain cleaner 10 . Generally includes the drain cleaner 10 a drum case 20th ( 61 ) and a rotatable drum assembly comprising an outer drum 80 ( 6C ) and an inner drum 100 ( 6B) contains. The drain cleaner 10 also includes an electric motor 120 ( 6A) that on the drum assembly and particularly the inner drum 100 is secured. In certain versions, the drain cleaner includes 10 additionally a counterweight 180 ( 6B) that on the drum assembly and particularly on the inner drum 100 is secured. In certain designs, the drain cleaner includes 10 also a cable clamp 190 ( 6A) attached to the drum assembly and particularly the inner drum 100 is secured. Typically, the drain cleaner includes 10 both the counterweight 180 as well as the cable clamp 190 attached to the drum assembly and particularly the inner drum 100 are secured.

Further referring to the 6B-6C the drum assembly includes the outer drum 80 and the inner drum 100 . Typically the outer drum 80 cylindrically shaped, and the inner drum 100 is also cylindrical in shape. The inner drum 100 is concentric in the outer drum 80 positioned and secured to it, creating an annular channel that extends between the outer drum 80 and the inner drum 100 extends. The drum assembly, ie including the outer drum 80 and the inner drum 100 , is located in an inner hollow area that passes through the drum housing 20th is defined ( 61 ). In another aspect, it could be the inner drum 100 integral with the outer drum 80 be shaped. The drum case 20th is also typically cylindrical or generally so shaped. The drum housing 20th however, have one or more reinforcing ribs or areas in different places. A case cover 160 ( 6G) is detachable on the drum housing 20th attached.

The drain cleaner 10 also includes a primary drum support assembly 40 ( 6D ), a secondary drum support assembly 60 ( 6C ) and one between the primary and secondary support assemblies 40 arranged axial bearing 50 ( 6D ), 60 . The secondary drum support assembly 60 is on the outer drum 80 secured. Typically one or more fasteners 62 used. The secondary drum support assembly 60 contains a central receiving element 64 , a plurality of outwardly extending leg members 66 and an axial plate 69 . The primary drum support assembly 40 contains a central support element or shaft 44 , a plurality of outwardly extending leg members 46 , an axial support plate 49 and a thrust bearing plate 49A . As from the 6C and 6D can be seen, the central receiving element 64 the secondary drum support assembly 60 sized and shaped to be the central support member or stem 44 the primary drum support assembly 40 can accommodate. And the thrust bearing 50 defines a receiving opening 52 which is sized to fit the central support member or stem 44 the primary drum support assembly 40 records. After assembling the in the 6C and 6D components shown is the outer drum 80 rotatable on or over the primary drum support assembly 40 stored. In certain implementations, each of the leg members includes 46 the primary drum support assembly 40 a corresponding foot element 47 and optionally a shoe element 48 .

Referring to 6A includes the drain cleaner 10 additionally a gear 130 , the one with a rotating output 121 of the motor 120 is engaged. In 6A is a section of a drain cleaning cable with a flexible shaft 140 illustrates that a cleaning head 150 at a distal end 141 of the cable 140 having. The drain cleaning cable with a flexible shaft 140 also defines a proximal end 142 that with an exit 132 of the transmission 130 is coupled. The gear 130 and / or the engine 120 are on the drum assembly and particularly the inner drum 100 through one or more mounting brackets 101 secured. As described in more detail herein, is a cable clamp 190 ( 6A) over at least a portion or portion of the flexible shaft drain cleaning cable 140 positioned. While the present disclosure describes a flexible shaft drain cleaning cable, other types of drain cleaning cables could be used. In certain implementations, an alternate coupling is used between the proximal end 142 of the drain cleaning cable with flexible shaft 140 and the exit 132 of the transmission 130 used. This alternative coupling is longer than the one in 6A shown. In such versions, the position of the engine 120 modified to accommodate the alternate clutch.

The drain cleaner 10 can optionally include various controls and / or displays that are shown in 6E shown collectively as 170. In particular, the controls and displays 170 one or more selector switches 172 and circuit breaker 174 contain. The controls and displays 170 typically also include a faceplate 175 attached to the housing cover 160 is secured ( 6G) . Optionally, the drain cleaner 10 also a foot switch 176 to control the operation of the drain cleaner 10 contain.

Referring to the 6F and 6G includes the drain cleaner 10 also provisions for signal and / or power transmission between the housing cover 160 and the rotatable drum assembly, and in particular the inner drum 100 . As can be understood, the housing covers are 160 and the drum housing 20th stationary and generally enclosing the drum assembly and the components attached thereto, ie the inner and outer drums 80 , 100 and the engine 120 . This in the 6F and 6G The arrangements shown include a ring and abrasive capsule assembly 210 and one or more harness assemblies 212 . One or more electronic controls and / or other accessories that come with the controls and displays 170 and / or the engine 120 may include those in 6G generally as components 214 are shown. The drain cleaner 10 also includes a power cord assembly 220 ( 6F) with a plug 221 and an opposite proximal end 222 for connection to the controls 170 and / or the engine 120 . The power cord assembly 220 also include one or more switches, earth leakage circuit breakers (GFCI), and / or the components commonly used as an element 225 are designated.

With further reference to the 6G-6I is the housing cover 160 with one or more fasteners 162 on the drum housing 20th secured. Any fastener 162 is at a catch area 22nd attached along a circumference of the drum 20th is defined. A bolt 164 secures the cable 140 and the cleaning head 150 selectively against the housing cover 160 . In 6H is also a portion of a handle or handle assembly 240 which is described in more detail herein. In 6H is also a guide plate 125 shown forming a channel and electrical wires or hoses in front of the rotating outer and inner drums 80 , 100 protects and a passage between the guide plate 125 and the housing cover 160 of the drum housing 20th enables.

Also referring to 61 can the drum housing 20th in addition, one or more outwardly protruding supports 23A , 23B and 23C included, for example. The pillars 23A-23C are configured to fit the drum housing 20th support and stabilize when the drain cleaner 10 is operated in a vertical orientation in which the drum assembly rotates about a horizontally oriented shaft or axis of rotation. One or more optional foot sleeves 24 can be along a bottom of the prop 23A be arranged. One or more nameplates can be used 25th or other indicia are provided, usually on an outer surface of the drum housing 20th are secured. The pillars 23B , 23C are at the car 250 secured to provide additional support in the vertical orientation.

In 6Y is also an optional line winding assembly 200 illustrated running along an outer portion of the drum housing 20th can be arranged. 6Y also shows a variety of support plates 230 which are described in more detail here. In 6Y is also a portion of the handle assembly previously described 240 shown. The line winding assembly 200 includes a variety of line winding components 202 which are described in more detail herein. 6Y also shows the optional trolley 250 that with the drain cleaner 10 can be used. The car 250 can have one or more areas of engagement 252 for selective attachment to the drain cleaner 10 and especially on the drum housing 20th contain. In certain versions and as in 61 shown contains the drum housing 20th one or more attachment areas 23 for receiving and / or for contact with one or more engagement areas 252 of the carriage 250 . As already mentioned, the car can 250 include a telescopic handle assembly, commonly used as an element 254 is shown.

7th Figure 3 is an exploded detailed view of the primary drum support assembly previously described 40 , the thrust bearing 50 , the secondary drum support assembly 60 and the outer drum 80 . The secondary drum support assembly 60 is on the outer drum 80 secured, typically via a variety of fasteners 62 . In certain versions, the secondary includes a drum support 60 at least one plain bearing 67 which, as already mentioned, absorbs radial loads when the drain cleaner is operated in a vertical orientation. The sliding bearing is typically in the central receiving element 64 arranged. The primary drum support 40 contains the central support element or the shaft 44 to which the plain bearing 67 rotates. Between the primary and secondary drum supports 40 , 60 is the thrust bearing 50 arranged. As mentioned earlier, the thrust bearing takes 50 axial loads on when the drain cleaner 10 is operated in a horizontal orientation.

8th Figure 4 is an exploded detailed view of the assembly that comprises the secondary drum support assembly previously described 60 , the thrust bearing 50 and the outer drum 80 in connection with the inner drum 100 , the counterweight 180 , the cable clamp 190 , the engine 120 , the transmission 130 , the cable 140 and a representative cleaning head 150 shows. As in 8th shown are the counterweight 180 , the motor assembly 120 , the Cable clamp 190 and the transmission 130 on the inner drum 100 secured or otherwise mounted thereon, in particular in an inner region of the inner drum 100 . The attachment of these components to a wall of the inner drum 100 is supported by the bracket already mentioned 101 ( 6A) and the motor mount plate 231 ( 6B) relieved.

9 Figure 3 is another detailed exploded view of the drum housing 20th , the housing cover 160 , in conjunction with sections of the handle assembly 240 . In 9 are also the multiple support plates 230 and the line winding assembly 200 shown. Typically the housing cover 160 sized and shaped to fit snugly over a generally hollow interior area of the drum housing 20th fits and encloses it. For versions in which the drum housing 20th is cylindrically shaped, is the housing cover 160 circular or substantially circular. It should be understood that the present subject matter includes a wide variety of other shapes and configurations for the drum housing 20th and / or the housing cover 160 contains.

10 Figure 3 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the counterweight 180 . 11 is a schematic diagram showing the installation of the counterweight 180 into the inner drum 100 of the drain cleaner 10 shows. As mentioned earlier, contains the counterweight 180 in certain embodiments, at least a portion of the counterweight that extends along a curved axis of the counterweight. This section is in 10 as a section 182 shown. Configuring the counterweight in this way and orienting the counterweight with respect to the drum assembly so that the curved axis of the counterweight or its portion is concentric about the axis of rotation of the drum assembly is used to stabilize the rotating drum assembly during vertical operation of the drain cleaner 10 . This aspect is in 11 in which a curved axis of the counterweight, shown as axis A, is concentric about the axis of the drum assembly, shown as axis B. The counterweight 180 also defines one or more openings 184 for receiving a fastener or other element to thereby create the counterweight 180 on the drum assembly and particularly the inner drum 100 to secure. It should be understood that the present subject matter includes a wide variety of different shapes, geometries, and configurations for the counterweight and is not limited to those shown in FIG 10 shown particular embodiment is limited.

11 also illustrates the drain cleaner 10 and the car 250 , in which the housing cover 160 from the drain cleaner 10 removed to expose an internal hollow area within the drum assembly. 11 shows a typical mounting arrangement for the engine 120 and the counterweight 180 . As previously described, there is the counterweight 180 generally opposite the engine 120 and the gearbox 130 (not shown) to balance these components and other components associated with the drum assembly for rotation about axis B.

In many embodiments and as described herein, the counterweight, e.g. B. the counterweight 180 , removably secured to the drum. However, the present subject matter also encompasses embodiments in which the counterweight is non-removably secured to the drum. For example, the counterweight could be permanently attached or secured to the drum. The counterweight could also be molded integrally with the drum or components of the drum. For example, the counterweight could be incorporated into a cast drum support.

12th Figure 3 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the cable clamp 190 . The cable clamp 190 defines a cable duct 192 running along a bottom of the cable clamp 190 extends. The cable clamp 190 also contains a variety of heat transfer fins 194 along the outer area (s) of the cable clamp 190 . One or more fasteners are typically used to secure the cable clamp 190 to secure the drum assembly, particularly the inner drum 100 , as in 13th shown. In addition, the fasteners that hold the cable clamp 190 to the inner drum 100 secure, also with a cable clamp support plate 232 be led ( 6B) . As mentioned earlier, the cable clamps are 190 typically interchangeable and can be easily removed from the inner drum 100 removed so that a cable clamp that differs in size, shape, configuration, or other aspect can be used.

13th shows the drain cleaner 10 and the car 250 , in which the housing cover 160 from the drain cleaner 10 removed to expose an internal hollow area within the drum assembly. 13th shows a typical mounting arrangement for the engine 120 , the counterweight 180 and the cable clamp 190 . In 13th is also a section of the flexible shafted cable 140 shown. The cable clamp 190 is so above the cable 140 positioned that cable 140 in the cable duct 192 is arranged. The cable clamp 190 is on one wall of the inner drum 100 secured.

In many embodiments, the drain cleaners include 10 both the counterweight 180 as well as the cable clamp 190 . However, the present subject matter includes drain cleaners that neither counterbalance nor counterbalance 180 nor the cable clamp 190 contain. In addition, it is also preferred that the drain cleaners of the present article include a rotatable drum that has no positional preference.

As previously mentioned, the drain cleaners of the present article can be operated in a horizontal orientation, as in FIG 14th shown. 14th Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the drain cleaner 10 and the car 250 who have favourited various in drain cleaner 10 assembled components illustrated. In particular is the inner drum 100 inside the outer drum 80 arranged. The motor 120 and the transmission 130 are on the inner drum 100 secured. The drums 80 , 100 and various components secured thereto are in the drum case 20th arranged and through the housing cover 160 in the drum housing 20th enclosed. As mentioned earlier, the engine is 120 in certain versions at a relatively small angle on the inner drum 100 attached to the transition between the gearbox 130 and the cable 140 (not shown) to facilitate. As in 14th shown, this angle is from a rear plane C of the inner drum 100 to the axis of rotation of the motor 120 measured. Typically, this angle is in a range from 1 ° to 20 °, particularly preferably the angle is in a range from 12 ° to 18 °. 14th also illustrates a feature that affects the operation of the drain cleaner 10 promotes in a horizontal orientation. In particular, includes the primary drum support assembly 40 in certain versions a large number of the foot elements mentioned 47 and shoe elements 48 . The foot elements 47 extend transversely from the leg members 46 . The foot elements 47 are configured to stand out from the drain cleaner 10 extend a distance greater than the maximum distance from other components of the drain cleaner 10 or the car 250 . This allows the drain cleaner 10 and its foot elements 47 (and possibly shoe elements 48 ) touch a floor or a floor surface that is in 14th shown as G, and all other components of the drain cleaner 10 and the car 250 lift up when the drain cleaner 10 is in a horizontal orientation.

15th FIG. 13 is a detail view of a portion of the sectional view of FIG 14th , in which the previously mentioned plain bearings 67 and the thrust bearing 50 that are in the drain cleaner 10 are used, are shown in more detail. In particular, it encloses the receiving area 64 the secondary drum support assembly 60 the plain bearings 67 around the stem 44 the primary drum support assembly 40 extend and / or hold them in place. The plain bearings 67 are between the shaft 44 and the receiving area 64 arranged. The thrust bearing 50 is also between the axial plate 69 the secondary drum support assembly 60 and the thrust bearing plate 49A the primary drum support assembly 40 arranged. The thrust bearing plate 49A has a smooth surface to reduce friction between the thrust bearing plate 49A and the thrust bearing 50 to reduce. As can be seen, the assembly rotates about the axis of rotation B. In 15th are also the outwardly extending leg elements 46 the primary drum support assembly 40 shown.

16 Figure 3 is an exploded assembly view of the optional line winding system 200 that is in the drain cleaner 10 is used. The cord wrapping 200 contains a variety of line winding components 202 and feathers 205 for receiving and holding an electrical power cable, such as. B. the aforementioned power cable assembly 220 ( 6F) to the drain cleaner 10 and its engine 120 to be supplied with electricity. Any cable wrapping component 202 is preferably through an opening 206 on one or more of the aforementioned support plates 230 attached. Any line winding component 202 can have a fastening projection 207 included, which has a square shape matching the shape of the opening 206 mates, allowing each line winding component to be placed in four (4) different orientations, each 90 ° apart. Any line winding component 202 can also have a radial projection 203 included to secure the power cord assembly. Fasteners 208 can in feathers 205 engage to enable the respective line winding component against the drum housing 20th is biased. As will be understood, the cord winding components are 202 along an outer portion of the drum housing 20th arranged and spaced apart for winding a power cord around the assembly of components 202 to promote. The line winding system 200 and / or the line winding components 202 can also be configured to work with the pear tubing 176 used and / or manage it. The spring-loaded property of the line winding components allows the line to be quickly "unloaded" by lifting and rotating the line winding projection 203 and then pulling the cords over a relatively smooth outer edge opposite the lip.

the 17th and 18th are detailed views of a typical line winding component 202 . In particular, each includes line winding component 202 an outwardly extending arm 203 . Any line winding component 202 can also one or more openings 204 for receiving a fastening element 208 for attaching the cord winding component 202 on the drum housing 20th and in particular on a support plate 230 contain.

19th Figure 3 is a perspective view of the drain cleaner 10 with a variety of gripping points or locations. The aforementioned outwardly protruding supports 23A-23C are with the handle assembly 240 shown attached to one of the supports, typically the support farthest from the position of the cart 250 , ie the prop 23A , is removed. The car 250 contains an additional gripping point with a cross bar 251 .

20th Figure 3 is a partial perspective view of the drain cleaner 10 which illustrates further aspects. In particular, there are several cord winding components 202 shown attached to support plates 230 are attached, extending along the drum housing 20th extend. The drum case 20th encloses the rotatable drum assembly (not shown), which is rotatable about the axis B. The drain cleaner 10 is with the car 250 shown.

21 illustrates additional aspects of the 6D and 7th primary drum support assembly illustrated 40 . The primary drum support assembly 40 can be one or more brackets in certain designs 300 contain. The bracket (s) 300 place the assembly 40 an increased rigidity ready. Any bracket 300 is configured to fit into a corresponding shoe element 48 engages and on a leg member 46 and / or a foot element 47 the primary drum support assembly 40 attached or otherwise secured.

22nd illustrates an optional drain plug 305 that goes into the drum housing 20th is built in. The drain plug 305 enables a controlled drainage of liquid from the interior of the housing 20th . Although the present subject matter provides a wide variety of drain plugs and drain assemblies for the drum housing 20th contains, illustrated 22nd a typical shape or configuration for the drain plug 305 . Specifically, the drain plug includes 305 a retaining element 308 and a sealing element 310 . The case 20th defines a drainage opening 312 and in the in 22nd version shown has a retention opening 314 . The sealing element 310 and the drainage hole 312 are sized and / or shaped so that they interlock and seal when inserting the element 310 into the opening 312 a flow of liquid through the opening 312 impede. The drain plug 305 is by inserting the retaining element 308 into the holding opening 314 on the housing 20th attached. The element 308 is frictionally secured and is in the opening 314 held. The present subject matter encompasses a wide variety of other configurations.

23 illustrates an alternate version 320 the in the 6A and 12th shown cable clamp 190 . In the 23 shown cable clamp 320 defines a cable duct 322 running along a bottom of the cable clamp 320 extends. The cable clamp 320 also contains a variety of heat transfer fins 324 along the outer area (s) of the cable clamp 320 . One or more fasteners 326 are typically used to clamp the cable 320 secure to the drum assembly, especially the inner drum 100 , as in 23 shown. In addition, the fasteners 326 with which the cable clamp 320 on the inner drum 100 secured, also by a cable clamp support plate (in 23 not shown). The cable clamp 320 is typically replaceable and can be easily removed from the inner drum 100 removed so that a cable clamp that differs in size, shape, configuration, or other aspect can be used. In 23 is also one in the cable duct 322 arranged drain cleaning cable with flexible shaft 140 illustrated. The cable clamp 320 includes a curved protrusion element 330 extending from a main body of the cable clamp 320 extends. The protruding element 330 extends the cable duct 322 . As in 23 shown has the protruding element 330 has a curved shape and is configured to match that in the cable duct 322 arranged cables 140 provides additional support.

In certain embodiments, one or both of the in 6E illustrated electrical circuit breaker 174 replaced by an i-coupling system, which thus takes over the function of the electrical circuit breaker (s). In 25th is an i-coupling system 340 shown. With reference to 24 is an LED 342 or a similar indicator on the front panel 175 attached to the housing cover 160 is secured, as in 6G shown. In 24 is the in 6E Assembly shown without the circuit breaker 174 illustrated. The LED 342 indicates to a user when the i-clutch has been activated. The i-coupling system 340 generally consists of several components, such as B. the following. An electronics assembly 344 , which can be a printed circuit board (PCB), controls a soft start module 346 and interrupts or disconnects in some other way the power supply to the motor (e.g. motor 120 in 6A) when the electrical current exceeds a specified threshold value or some other predetermined value. An oppressor 348 used to reduce electrical noise and one or more heat sinks 350 can be used to to reduce excessive heat from the electronics and the surrounding assembly. 24 illustrates the one or more selector switches 172 from the in 6E assembly shown.

26th illustrates another embodiment of a cable clamp, called a cable clamp 420 referred to as. In the 26th shown cable clamp 420 defines a cable duct 422 running along a bottom of the cable clamp 420 extends. The cable clamp 420 also contains a variety of heat transfer fins 424 along the outer area (s) of the cable clamp 420 . One or more fasteners 426 are typically used to clamp the cable 420 to the drum assembly and in particular to the inner drum 100 to secure, as in 23 shown. In addition, the fasteners 426 with which the cable clamp 420 on the inner drum 100 secured, can also be guided through a cable clamp support plate (in 26th Not shown). The cable clamp 420 is typically replaceable and can be easily removed from the inner drum 100 removed so that a cable clamp that differs in size, shape, configuration, or other aspect can be used. 26th Also illustrates one in the cable duct 422 arranged drain cleaning cable with flexible shaft 140 . The cable clamp 420 defines one or more threaded openings 452 having access to the one in the cable duct 422 arranged drain cleaning cable with flexible shaft 140 provide. One or more interference fasteners 450 , preferably threaded fasteners configured to fit into the openings 452 are in the corresponding openings 452 positioned. The fasteners 450 are positioned so that they cover the outer sheath of the cable 140 touch or otherwise intervene in them. This configuration creates interference with the stationary outer jacket of the cable 140 ready. The fasteners 450 prevent or at least significantly reduce the potential for movement of the jacket within the cable duct 422 if excessive torque is applied, which can occur especially at elevated temperatures.

For the fasteners 450 a wide range of fasteners and other components can be used. Without being limited to any particular configuration, screws have proven suitable for use as fasteners 450 proven. In certain versions, the screws are machine screws, such as. B. M6 x 1.00 mm. In addition, cup point grub screws have shown advantageous performance. Additional end configurations for the fasteners include, but are not limited to, a knurled end and a pointed end.

In general, the fasteners are configured to be removable. Such a configuration promotes serviceability and cable replacement. Typically, a cable is installed by selecting a suitable cable and connecting one end of the cable to the gearbox. The cable clamp is then aligned (removed from the inner drum) and positioned over the cable. The cable is placed in the labeled cable duct defined along an underside of the cable clamp. In the case of cable clamps with dimension lines or fixing lines, the cable is positioned on the clamp within these lines. The clamp is then secured to its mounting surface with fasteners. Then the interference fasteners, such as those in 26th shown fasteners 450 , tightened, thereby tightening the fasteners 450 in contact with the outer sheath of the cable 140 to press.

27 Figure 3 is a perspective view of a portion of another embodiment of a cable clamp 520 . In this figure is a curved protruding member 530 shown extending from a main body of the cable clamp 520 extends. The protruding element 530 extends over a cable duct 522 running along a bottom of the cable clamp 520 is defined, similar to the protruding member described above 330 , this in 23 is shown. The protruding element 530 contains one or more ribs 560 that touch the drum to the reaction torque of the cable 140 between the drum and the mounting screws (not shown). The ribs are used in many designs 560 to transfer the load and forces into the drum wall instead of transferring all of the reaction torque to the fastening components. This in turn reduces the risk of the fastening components loosening over time and fatigue of the drum under the cable clamp.

28 is a schematic cross-section through the in 26th Assembly shown, which extends through a center of the fastening elements 450 and the cable 140 extends. As can be understood, the cross-section is perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the inner portion of the cable 140 recorded.

In another embodiment, the present article provides a drain cleaner comprising: a housing defining a hollow interior region; a drum defining an inner surface and a channel in which a cable and jacket can be disposed, the drum in the Housing arranged and rotatable about a horizontally arranged axis; a motor removably secured to the inner surface of the drum at a first location; a gear detachably secured to the inner surface of the drum at a second location spaced from the first location; and a counterweight removably secured to the inner surface of the drum at a third location spaced from the first and second locations. The motor or the gear or both the drum and the gear are arranged radially outward from the axis of rotation of the drum. The improvement is that the third point is spaced from the axis of rotation so that the drum is balanced. In particular embodiments, the improvement includes that the third point is spaced from the axis of rotation so that the drum is balanced when it rotates with a first predetermined number of rotations per unit of time.

In certain versions, the counterweight is configured so that the drum remains dynamically balanced when the drum rotates a second predetermined number of rotations per unit of time that is different from the first predetermined number of rotations per unit of time.

In general, the rate of rotation of the drum during operation of the drain cleaner is constant or substantially constant, e.g. B. within 20% of a rate of rotation during extension of a drain cleaning cable or flexible shaft; or during withdrawal of a drain cleaning cable or flexible shaft (excluding start and end phases). However, the present subject matter also encompasses the use or operation of the drain cleaner when the extension or retraction of the drain cleaning cable or flexible shaft is in a non-constant or variable manner. In such cases the rate of rotation of the drum is not constant. In many implementations, the improvements described here still result in the drum being balanced.

In certain versions, the drain cleaner also includes a cable clamp that is rotatable with the drum and removably secured to the inner surface of the drum at a fourth location. In certain versions, the cable clamp defines a recessed cable passage area along an underside of the cable clamp. In still other versions, the cable clamp defines at least one heat transfer fin that extends along and outwardly from an outer surface area of the cable clamp.

The present article offers a wide range of features and advantages. The advantages include the quiet operation of the drum rotation.

A variety of alternative embodiments are conceivable, such as. B. the following. When loading the drain cleaner into a vehicle, another gripping point is required at the lower front end of the drain cleaner. This handle has two gripping points to make it easier to grasp and load the device. This handle can also be used when negotiating a curb or step.

Many more advantages will no doubt become apparent as this technology is used and developed in the future.

All patents, applications, standards, and articles mentioned herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

The present subject matter includes all functional combinations of the features and aspects described herein. So if z. For example, if one feature is described in connection with one embodiment and another feature is described in connection with another embodiment, it is understood that the present subject matter includes embodiments having a combination of these features.

As described above, the present subject matter solves many problems associated with prior strategies, systems, and / or devices. It is recognized, however, that various changes in the details, materials and arrangements of components described and illustrated herein to explain the nature of the present subject matter can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the principle and scope of the claimed subject matter, such as as expressed in the appended claims.

• Ausführungsform 1: Abflussreiniger, umfassend:
  • ein Gehäuse;
  • eine rotierbare Trommel, die in dem Gehäuse angeordnet ist, wobei die Trommel um eine Rotationsachse rotierbar ist;
  • einen Elektromotor, der an der Trommel gesichert und mit der Trommel rotierbar ist; und ein Gegengewicht, das an der Trommel gesichert und mit der Trommel rotierbar ist.

For a better understanding of the invention, further embodiments are described below:

• Embodiment 1: Drain cleaner comprising:
  • a housing;
  • a rotatable drum disposed in the housing, the drum being rotatable about an axis of rotation;
  • an electric motor secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum; and a counterweight secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum.

Embodiment 2: The drain cleaner according to embodiment 1, wherein the counterweight is configured so that when the drum rotates about the axis of rotation, the rotatable drum is free from having any positional preference.

Embodiment 3: The drain cleaner of Embodiment 1, wherein the counterweight includes at least a portion that extends along a curved axis of the counterweight.

Embodiment 4: The drain cleaner according to embodiment 3, wherein the counterweight is secured to the drum in such a way that the curved axis of the counterweight is aligned concentrically about the axis of rotation of the drum.

Embodiment 5: The drain cleaner of Embodiment 1, further comprising: a cable clamp secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum.

Embodiment 6: The drain cleaner of embodiment 5, wherein the cable clip defines (i) a recessed cable passage area along a bottom of the cable clip and (ii) at least one heat transfer fin along an outside of the cable clip.

Embodiment 7: The drain cleaner according to embodiment 5, wherein the cable clamp contains a material which has a thermal conductivity of at least 10 W / m · k.

Embodiment 8: The drain cleaner according to Embodiment 1, further comprising: a gear that is secured to the drum and is rotatable with the drum.

Embodiment 9: The drain cleaner of Embodiment 1, wherein the drum defines an annular channel for receiving and storing drain cleaning cables.

• ein Gehäuse, das einen inneren hohlen Bereich definiert;
• eine rotierbare Trommel, die in dem inneren hohlen Bereich angeordnet ist, der durch das Gehäuse definiert ist, wobei die Trommel um eine Rotationsachse rotierbar ist;
• einen Elektromotor, der an der Trommel gesichert ist und mit der Trommel rotierbar ist;
• eine Kabelklemme, die an der Trommel gesichert und mit der Trommel rotierbar ist;
• wobei die Kabelklemme (i) einen vertieften Kabeldurchgangsbereich entlang einer Unterseite der Kabelklemme und (ii) zumindest eine Wärmeübertragungslamelle entlang einer Außenseite der Kabelklemme definiert.

Embodiment 10: Drain cleaner comprising:

• a housing defining an interior hollow area;
• a rotatable drum disposed in the interior hollow region defined by the housing, the drum rotatable about an axis of rotation;
• an electric motor secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum;
• a cable clamp secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum;
• wherein the cable clamp defines (i) a recessed cable passage area along an underside of the cable clamp and (ii) at least one heat transfer fin along an exterior of the cable clamp.

Embodiment 11: The drain cleaner according to embodiment 10, wherein the cable clamp contains a material which has a thermal conductivity of at least 10 W / m · k.

• ein Gegengewicht, das an der Trommel gesichert ist und mit der Trommel rotierbar ist, wobei die Kabelklemme (i) einen vertieften Kabeldurchgangsbereich entlang einer Unterseite der Kabelklemme und (ii) zumindest eine Wärmeübertragungslamelle entlang einer Außenseite der Kabelklemme definiert.

Embodiment 12: The drain cleaner of Embodiment 10, further comprising:

• a counterweight secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum, the cable clamp defining (i) a recessed cable passage area along an underside of the cable clamp and (ii) at least one heat transfer fin along an exterior of the cable clamp.

Embodiment 13: The drain cleaner of embodiment 12, wherein the counterweight includes at least a portion that extends along a curved axis of the counterweight.

Embodiment 14: The drain cleaner according to embodiment 13, wherein the counterweight is secured to the drum such that the curved axis of the counterweight is concentrically aligned about the axis of rotation of the drum.

• ein Gehäuse, das einen hohlen inneren Bereich definiert;
• eine Trommel, die eine innere Oberfläche und einen Kanal definiert, in dem ein Kabel und ein Mantel angeordnet sind, wobei die Trommel in dem Gehäuse angeordnet und um eine horizontal angeordnete Achse rotierbar ist;
• einen Motor, der abnehmbar an der inneren Oberfläche der Trommel an einer ersten Stelle gesichert ist;
• ein Getriebe, das abnehmbar an der inneren Oberfläche der Trommel an einer zweiten Stelle gesichert ist, die von der ersten Stelle beabstandet ist; und
• ein Gegengewicht ist gesichert an oder geformt entlang der inneren Oberfläche der Trommel an einer dritten Stelle, die von der ersten und zweiten Stelle beabstandet ist;
• wobei der Motor oder das Getriebe oder sowohl die Trommel als auch das Getriebe radial nach außen von der Rotationsachse der Trommel gelegen sind;
• wobei die Verbesserung umfasst, dass die dritte Stelle von der Rotationsachse beabstandet ist, so dass die Trommel ausgeglichen ist, wenn sie mit einer ersten vorbestimmten Anzahl von Rotationen pro Zeiteinheit rotiert.

Embodiment 15: In a drain cleaner comprising:

• a housing defining a hollow interior region;
• a drum defining an inner surface and a channel in which a cable and jacket are disposed, the drum being disposed in the housing and rotatable about a horizontally disposed axis;
• a motor removably secured to the inner surface of the drum at a first location;
• a gear detachably secured to the inner surface of the drum at a second location spaced from the first location; and
• a counterweight is secured to or molded along the inner surface of the drum at a third location spaced from the first and second locations;
• wherein the motor or the gearbox or both the drum and the gearbox are located radially outward from the axis of rotation of the drum;
• wherein the improvement comprises the third location being spaced from the axis of rotation so that the drum is balanced when rotating a first predetermined number of rotations per unit time.

Embodiment 16: The drain cleaner of embodiment 15, wherein the counterweight is configured so that when the drum rotates a second predetermined number of rotations per unit time that is different from the first predetermined number of rotations per unit time, the drum remains dynamically balanced.

Embodiment 17: The drain cleaner of Embodiment 15 further comprising a cable clamp rotatably and removably secured with the drum to the inner surface of the drum at a fourth location.

Embodiment 18: The drain cleaner of Embodiment 17, wherein the cable clamp defines a recessed cable passage area along a bottom of the cable clamp.

Embodiment 19: The drain cleaner of embodiment 18, wherein the cable clamp further defines at least one heat transfer fin that extends along and outwardly from an outer surface area of the cable clamp.

QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Patent literature cited

• US 7367077 [0013]

Claims (21)

Drain cleaner comprising: a housing; a rotatable drum disposed in the housing, the drum being rotatable about an axis of rotation; an electric motor secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum; and a counterweight secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum. Drain cleaner after Claim 1 wherein the counterweight is configured so that when the drum rotates about the axis of rotation, the rotatable drum is free from having any positional preference. Drain cleaner after Claim 1 or 2 wherein the counterweight includes at least a portion that extends along a curved axis of the counterweight. Drain cleaner after any of the Claims 1 until 3 wherein the counterweight is secured to the drum such that the curved axis of the counterweight is concentric about the axis of rotation of the drum. The drain cleaner of any preceding claim further comprising: a cable clamp secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum. Drain cleaner after Claim 5 wherein the cable clamp defines (i) a recessed cable passage area along an underside of the cable clamp and (ii) at least one heat transfer fin along an exterior of the cable clamp. Drain cleaner after any of the Claims 5 or 6th wherein the cable clamp comprises a material that has a thermal conductivity of at least 10 W / m · k. The drain cleaner of any preceding claim further comprising: a gearbox secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum. The drain cleaner of any preceding claim, wherein the drum defines an annular channel for receiving and storing drain cleaning cables. Drain cleaner comprising: a housing defining an interior hollow area; a rotatable drum disposed in the interior hollow region defined by the housing, the drum rotatable about an axis of rotation; an electric motor secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum; a cable clamp secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum; wherein the cable clamp defines (i) a recessed cable passage area along an underside of the cable clamp and (ii) at least one heat transfer fin along an exterior of the cable clamp. Drain cleaner after Claim 10 wherein the cable clamp comprises a material having a thermal conductivity of at least 10 W / m · k. The drain cleaner after any of the Claims 10 or 11 , further comprising: a counterweight secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum, the cable clamp defining (i) a recessed cable passage area along a bottom of the cable clamp and (ii) at least one heat transfer fin along an outside of the cable clamp. Drain cleaner after Claim 12 wherein the counterweight includes at least a portion that extends along a curved axis of the counterweight. Drain cleaner according to one of the Claims 12 or 13th wherein the counterweight is secured to the drum such that the curved axis of the counterweight is concentric about the axis of rotation of the drum. In a drain cleaner comprising: a housing defining a hollow interior region; a drum defining an inner surface and a channel in which a cable and jacket are disposed, the drum being disposed in the housing and rotatable about a horizontally disposed axis; a motor removably secured to the inner surface of the drum at a first location; a gear detachably secured to the inner surface of the drum at a second location spaced from the first location; and a counterweight is secured or molded on or along an inner surface of the drum at a third location spaced from the first and second locations; wherein the motor or the gearbox or both the drum and the gearbox are located radially outward from the axis of rotation of the drum; the improvement comprising the third location being spaced from the axis of rotation so that the drum is balanced. Drain cleaner after Claim 15 wherein the improvement comprises the third location being spaced from the axis of rotation so that the drum is balanced when rotating a first predetermined number of rotations per unit time. Drain cleaner after any of the Claims 15 or 16 wherein the counterweight is configured such that when the drum rotates a second predetermined number of rotations per unit of time that is different from the first predetermined number of rotations per unit of time, the drum remains dynamically balanced. Drain cleaner after any of the Claims 15 until 17th wherein the counterweight is removably secured to the inner surface of the drum at the third location. Drain cleaner after any of the Claims 15 until 18th further comprising a cable clamp rotatably and removably secured with the drum to the inner surface of the drum at a fourth location. Drain cleaner after Claim 19 wherein the cable clamp defines a recessed cable passage area along a bottom of the cable clamp. Drain cleaner after any of the Claims 19 or 20th wherein the cable clamp further defines at least one heat transfer fin extending along and outwardly from an outer surface area of the cable clamp.

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