Drain cleaning device

Abstract

A drain cleaning device includes a housing, a spool assembly supported by the housing, the spool assembly including an inner spool, an outer spool, and a space defined therebetween, the space configured to store a flexible cable. The spool assembly is configured to rotate about an axis of rotation. The drain cleaning device can include a motor supported by the spool assembly, including an output shaft, and a battery receptacle supported by the spool assembly, configured to receive a battery pack that supplies power to the motor. The spool assembly defines an outer diameter measured through the axis of rotation, wherein the spool assembly defines a height measured in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation; and wherein a ratio defined by the outer diameter of the spool assembly to the height of the spool assembly is between 2.5 and 3.5.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 637,988, filed April 24, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This application relates to drain cleaning devices for cleaning drain pipes, pipes or other conduits, and more particularly to flexible shaft drain cleaners. Background Technology

[0004] Flexible shaft drain cleaners are known as high-speed drain cleaners because they include a motor that rotates the cable at a higher speed. This higher speed is achieved by directly driving the cable with torque from the motor / drive mechanism. Furthermore, flexible shaft drain cleaners incorporate improved cables to withstand these higher speeds. Flexible shaft cables differ from traditional drain cleaner cables and typically consist of a wound cable wrapped in a sheath. Utility Model Content

[0005] In some aspects, the present invention relates to a drain cleaning device comprising: a housing; a reel assembly supported by the housing, the reel assembly including an inner reel, an outer reel, and a space defined therebetween, the space configured to store a flexible cable, the reel assembly being configured to rotate about a rotation axis; a motor supported by the reel assembly, the motor including an output shaft; and a battery socket supported by the reel assembly, the battery socket being configured to receive a battery pack supplying power to the motor; wherein the reel assembly defines an outer diameter measured by the rotation axis; wherein the reel assembly defines a height measured in a direction parallel to the rotation axis; and wherein the ratio defined by the outer diameter of the reel assembly to the height of the reel assembly is between 2.5 and 3.5.

[0006] In some aspects, the present invention relates to a drain cleaning device comprising: a housing; a reel assembly supported by the housing, the reel assembly including an inner reel, an outer reel, and a space defined therebetween, the reel assembly being configured to rotate about a rotation axis, the reel assembly defining an outer diameter measured by the rotation axis; a motor supported by the reel assembly, the motor including an output shaft defining a motor axis; a transmission device coupled to the output shaft and supported by the reel assembly; a flexible cable stored in the space, the flexible cable being operable to receive torque from the motor; and a cable guide supported by the reel assembly, the cable guide being configured to guide a portion of the flexible cable from the motor into the space, the cable guide defining an arc extending between the output shaft and the space, the arc including a radius extending from a virtual center of the arc; wherein the ratio defined by the outer diameter of the reel assembly to the radius of the arc is between 2.0 and 6.0.

[0007] In some aspects, the present invention relates to a drain cleaning device comprising: a housing including a top side, a bottom side opposite to the top side, a rear side, and a front side opposite to the rear side; a reel assembly supported by the housing, the reel assembly including an inner reel, an outer reel, and a space defined therebetween, the space configured to store a flexible cable, the reel assembly being configured to rotate about a rotation axis; a motor supported by the reel assembly, the motor including an output shaft; a battery socket supported by the reel assembly, the battery socket being configured to receive a battery pack supplying power to the motor; and a foot pedal operable to activate the motor, the foot pedal being supported within the reel assembly.

[0008] Other aspects of this invention will become apparent upon careful reading of the detailed description and accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1 This is a front-view perspective view of the drain cleaning device.

[0010] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 Rear-view perspective of the drain cleaning device.

[0011] Figure 3 It is along Figure 1 The line 3-3 was cut Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a drain cleaning device.

[0012] Figure 3A yes Figure 3 A perspective view of a drain cleaning device, showing the surface bearings in detail.

[0013] Figure 3B yes Figure 1 A perspective view of the drain cleaning device, with parts of it removed.

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 1 A floor plan of the drain cleaning system, in which parts have been removed.

[0015] Figure 5 It includes framework components. Figure 1 A three-dimensional view of a drain cleaning device.

[0016] Figure 6 yes Figure 1 A perspective view of a drain cleaning device, with the handle in the retracted position.

[0017] Figure 7 It is in the first position. Figure 1 A 3D view of the battery socket of the drain cleaning device.

[0018] Figure 8It is in the second position. Figure 1 A 3D view of the battery socket of the drain cleaning device.

[0019] Figure 9 This is a front view of a drain cleaning device according to another embodiment.

[0020] Figure 10 This is a front view of a drain cleaning device according to another embodiment.

[0021] Figure 11 Is with Figure 1 A perspective view of a storage component used in conjunction with a drain cleaning device.

[0022] Figure 12 It is according to another embodiment with a reverse switch Figure 1 Front view of the drain cleaning device.

[0023] Figure 13 This is a front view of a drain cleaning device according to another embodiment.

[0024] Figure 14 According to another embodiment, and Figure 1 A three-dimensional diagram of a foot pedal used in conjunction with a drain cleaning device.

[0025] Before explaining any embodiment of this invention in detail, it should be understood that the application of this invention is not limited to the details of the construction and arrangement of the components described in the following description or shown in the drawings. This invention can have other embodiments and can be practiced or implemented in various ways. Detailed Implementation

[0026] Figure 1 and Figure 2 A drain cleaning device 10 is shown, operable to remove and clean debris from pipes or other conduits. In the illustrated embodiment, the drain cleaning device 10 is a flexible shaft drain cleaner. The drain cleaning device 10 is operable to rotate a drain cleaning cable 12 at a relatively high speed. As described below, the drain cleaning cable 12 may include a coiled cable or other suitable cable positioned within a sheath. The coiled cable is driven (e.g., rotated) by the drain cleaning device 10 within the sheath to remove debris from the conduit. In the illustrated embodiment, the drain cleaning device 10 may be referred to as a mini or small flexible shaft drain cleaner. For example, the drain cleaning device 10 may include approximately 35 feet of 1 / 4-inch diameter cable, while a standard flexible drain cleaner may include approximately 75 feet of 5 / 16-inch diameter cable. Typically, the cable 12 includes a total length of 30-50 feet. Therefore, the drain cleaning device 10 is lighter and easier to transport than a standard flexible drain cleaner.

[0027] The drain cleaning device 10 includes a housing 14 and a reel assembly 16 supported by the housing 14. The housing 14 includes a handle 18 on a first or top side of the housing 14 and a bracket 22 on a second or bottom side of the housing 14. The housing 14 includes a control portion 26 positioned below the handle 18. The control portion 26 includes a speed control dial 30 and a direction switch 34. An actuator (e.g., a foot pedal 36) is supported within the reel assembly 16 and is operable to activate the drain cleaning device 10. In some embodiments, the foot pedal 36 may be coupled to a portion of the control portion 26 (e.g., via a cable) to activate the drain cleaning device 10. In other embodiments, the drain cleaning device 10 may be activated using a drill-type trigger or a button. The drill-type trigger or button may be located on the control portion 26 of the housing 14 or on another portion of the drain cleaning device 10 (e.g., on the handle 18). In some embodiments, the housing 14 may be supported by a cage-like frame assembly 38, which supports the drain cleaning device 10, such as... Figure 5 As shown. The frame assembly 38 or housing 14 can support the wheels 40, which allow the user to transport the drain cleaning device 10 on the surface. The frame assembly 38 can be formed of a plurality of rods and links coupled together by welding, fasteners, etc.

[0028] In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 18 can be in a first position ( Figure 1 ) and second position ( Figure 6 The handle 18 can move (e.g., pivot) between the first and second positions. The first position may also be referred to as the extended position, unfolded position, or use position. The second position may also be referred to as the retracted position, folded position, or storage position. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 18 pivots approximately 90 degrees between the first and second positions. Thus, the handle 18 can be coupled to the housing 14 using fasteners, pivot joints, or other known couplings. When the handle 18 is in the retracted position, it is generally flush with the housing, making the drain cleaning device 10 more compact and occupying a smaller area, facilitating operation in a more compact space. In other embodiments, the handle 18 may be an extendable handle to aid in the user's transport of the drain cleaning device 10. For example, the handle 18 may slide and / or extend linearly between the first and second positions. The drain cleaning device 10 can be in an upright position (… Figure 1 ) and location of use ( Figure 3 The drain cleaning device 10 can be moved between two positions. In the upright position, the bracket 22 supports the drain cleaning device 10 on the surface, and in the use position, the rear of the housing 14 supports the drain cleaning device 10 on the surface. However, the drain cleaning device 10 can be used in either the upright or use position during operation. Using the drain cleaning device 10 in the upright position reduces the overall footprint of the drain cleaning device 10.

[0029] See Figure 3 The reel assembly 16 is supported by the housing 14 and is rotatable relative to the housing 14 about a rotation axis 54. The reel assembly 16 is supported on the housing 14 by a support shaft 58 defining the rotation axis 54. The reel assembly 16 includes an outer reel 62 and an inner reel 66 coupled to the outer reel 62 to rotate therewith. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer reel 62 and the inner reel 66 are cylindrical, having an open front end and a closed rear end. The inner reel 66 has a smaller diameter than the outer reel 62 to define a space 70 between them. The drain cleaning cable 12 can be supported within the space 70. A bearing 72 is positioned between the inner reel 66 and the support shaft 58 to allow the reel assembly 16 to rotate relative to the support shaft 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the reel assembly 16 is idly supported on the support shaft 58. In other words, the reel assembly 16 is allowed to rotate freely on the support shaft 58. In other embodiments, the spool assembly 16 may be driven by a motor to rotate together with or about the support shaft 58. Additionally, a plurality of surface bearings 73 ( Figure 3A It is positioned between the reel assembly 16 and the housing 14. For example... Figure 3B As shown, surface bearings 73 are circumferentially spaced around the inner surface of housing 14 between housing 14 and outer drum 62. Each surface bearing 73 includes a housing 75 that defines a slot 76 to receive a rolling bearing 77 (e.g., a metal ball) that allows rolling in place. The rolling bearing 77 extends from the slot 76 and engages the rear surface of drum assembly 16 to allow smooth rotation of drum assembly 16 about axis of rotation 54 without causing unwanted friction between housing 14 and drum assembly 16.

[0030] See also Figure 3The spool assembly 16 defines a diameter D, measured via a rotation axis 54, between the outer peripheries of the outer spool 62. The spool assembly 16 also defines a height H, measured in a direction parallel to the rotation axis 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter D can range between 14 inches and 22 inches. The height H can range between 4 inches and 8 inches. This defines the ratio between the diameter D and the height H of the spool assembly 16. The ratio of the diameter D to the height H of the spool assembly 16 can range between 1.75 and 5.5. In other embodiments, the ratio of the diameter D to the height H of the spool assembly 16 can range between 2.5 and 3.5. In some embodiments, the ratio of the diameter D to the height H of the spool assembly 16 can be at least 2. In other embodiments, the ratio of the diameter D to the height H of the spool assembly can be less than 5. Furthermore, the dimensions of the space 70 between the inner spool 62 and the outer spool 66 are designed to allow the cable 12 to be stacked within the spool assembly 16. Specifically, the dimensions of space 70 are designed to keep the cables 12 stacked in a single row when the cables 12 are retracted or inserted into the reel assembly 16. This stacking of the cables 12 limits tangling and improves efficiency when moving the cables 12 into and out of the reel assembly 16. The diameter D and height H of the reel assembly 16 depend approximately on the size of the cables used with the drain cleaning device 10. For example, cables with a smaller diameter can include additional length and still fit within the reel assembly 16. In contrast, cables with a larger diameter and similar length would require a larger reel assembly to fit within. Therefore, the cables 12 and the reel assembly 16 can be selectively removed from the housing 14 and replaced with reel assemblies and / or cables of different sizes and types.

[0031] See Figure 1 and Figure 3 A reel cover 74 is positioned above space 70 to secure cable 12 between inner reel 66, outer reel 62, and reel cover 74. Reel cover 74 includes a cable outlet 78 that guides cable 12 out of reel assembly 16 and a cable clamp 46 adjacent to cable outlet 78 to support cable 12 when not in use. Reel cover 74 can be coupled to housing 14 by fasteners. Reel cover 74 includes a plurality of openings 80 to allow a user to view and inspect cable 12. Figure 1In the illustrated embodiment, cable outlet 78 is located on the right-hand side or at the 3 o'clock position of the reel cover 74. Cable outlet 78 is also positioned such that when cable 12 is not in use, cable 12 extends tangentially relative to the reel cover 74. In other embodiments, cable outlet 78 may be located at the bottom or 6 o'clock position of the reel cover 74, on the left-hand side or at the 9 o'clock position of the reel cover 74, or on the top side or at the 12 o'clock position of the reel cover 74. In some embodiments, the reel cover 74 may include multiple cable outlets 78 located at different positions around the reel cover 74. In other embodiments, cable outlets 78 may be located within a 360-degree range around the reel cover 74. In other embodiments, the reel cover 74 may be rotatable relative to the reel assembly 16 to change the position of the cable outlets 78 as needed by the user.

[0032] See you again Figure 1 The inner drum 66 of the drum assembly 16 supports the motor housing 82, battery housing 86, storage container 88, and cable guide housing 90. (Go to...) Figure 4 Motor 94 is supported within motor housing 82. In some embodiments, motor 94 may be a DC brushless motor. In other embodiments, motor 94 may include brushes. Motor 94 includes an output shaft 96 defining a motor axis 98. Output shaft 96 is configured to be directly coupled to drain cleaning cable 12 to rotate cable 12. Motor axis 98 is offset from the axis of rotation 54 of the reel assembly 16. More specifically, motor axis 98 is spaced apart from but perpendicular to the axis of rotation 54. Motor axis 98 is also oriented at an angle relative to a vertical plane A extending through the axis of rotation 54 (when drain cleaning device 10 is in the upright position). Vertical plane A extends through support shaft 58, motor 94, and storage container 88. In other embodiments, output shaft 96 may be oriented in other configurations.

[0033] The transmission 100 or gear train is also supported within the motor housing 82 and positioned between the motor 94 and the output shaft 96. In the illustrated embodiment, the transmission 100 transmits torque from the motor 94 to the output shaft 96, such that the output shaft 96 directly drives the wound cable to rotate within the sheath. For example, the transmission 100 may include a planetary gear system comprising a single or multiple stages, a planetary gear set with bevel gears, a planetary gear set with two bevel gears, only two bevel gears, a spur gear set, a helical gear set, a multi-speed gearbox, or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). In some embodiments, the transmission 100 may be considered part of the motor 94. In other embodiments, the transmission 100 may be a separate component from the motor 94, which may be interchangeable with another transmission. The dimensions of the transmission 100 and the motor 94 are designed to minimize the space used within the inner drum 66. Specifically, the motor 94 and the transmission 100 define a total length along the motor axis 98 between 3 inches and 4 inches, and a total diameter between 1 inch and 3 inches.

[0034] See also Figure 4 The battery housing 86 defines a battery socket 102 configured to receive the battery pack t. The battery pack 106 may include any of a number of different nominal voltages (e.g., 12V, 18V, etc.) and may be configured to have any of a number of different chemistries (e.g., lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, etc.). The battery pack 106 is operable to power the motor 94 to drive the motor 94. The battery pack 106 is a removable battery pack. The battery pack 106 is also a rechargeable battery pack. Alternatively, the motor 94 may be powered by a remote power source (e.g., a household power outlet) via a power cord.

[0035] In the illustrated embodiment, the battery pack 106 is mounted such that its longitudinal axis extends parallel to the vertical plane A. In other embodiments, the battery pack 106 may be inserted into the battery socket 102 in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 54. In other embodiments, the battery socket 102 may be positioned elsewhere on the drain cleaning device 10. For example, the battery socket 102 may be mounted on the housing 14. In such embodiments, the battery pack 106 does not rotate with the reel assembly 16 during the drain cleaning operation. Furthermore, the battery socket 102 may be positioned adjacent to the center of the inner reel 66. In some embodiments, the battery socket 102 may be in a first position ( Figure 7 ) and second position ( Figure 8The battery receptacle 102 can be moved between two positions. The first position may also be referred to as the attachment position. The second position may also be referred to as the storage position. For example, in the attachment position, the battery receptacle 102 receives the battery pack 106 in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 54. The battery receptacle 102 can then be moved (e.g., pivoted) to the storage position such that the battery pack 106 is mounted with its longitudinal axis perpendicular to the axis of rotation 54. Providing the battery receptacle 102 to receive the battery pack 106 in the attachment position allows the user to easily attach the battery pack 106 and then pivot the battery receptacle 102 to the storage position to remove the battery pack 106 without interfering with the operation of the drain cleaning device 10 and limiting the total footprint of the drain cleaning device 10.

[0036] Control electronics 114 are disposed within the motor housing 82. In some embodiments, control electronics 114 may be disposed in a housing separate from the motor housing 82. Control electronics 114 is oriented in a vertical configuration. In other words, the longitudinal axis of control electronics 114 is substantially perpendicular to the vertical plane A. In some embodiments, control electronics 114 may be oriented at an angle to the vertical plane A. In other embodiments, control electronics 114 may be oriented with its longitudinal axis parallel or perpendicular to the vertical plane A. Control electronics 114 may include a controller or processor for controlling the operation of the drain cleaning device 10. In some embodiments, the controller is implemented as a microprocessor with a separate memory. In other embodiments, the controller may be implemented as a microcontroller (with memory on the same chip). In other embodiments, the controller may be implemented using multiple processors. Furthermore, the controller may be implemented partially or entirely as, for example, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc., and may not require memory or may modify the memory accordingly. The memory may include a non-transitory computer-readable storage device that stores instructions received and executed by the controller to perform the functions of the drain cleaning device 10 described herein. Memory may include, for example, program storage areas and data storage areas. Program storage areas may include a combination of different types of memory, such as read-only memory and random access memory.

[0037] See Figure 4A cable guide housing 90 is coupled adjacent to a motor housing 82 to an inner drum 66. The cable guide housing 90 defines a cavity and a guide channel 120 (e.g., a cable guide) extending from the cavity. An output shaft 96 of a motor 94 extends from the motor housing 82 into the cavity in a direction aligned with the guide channel 120. The guide channel 120 leads to the inner drum 66 and extends into a space 70 defined between the inner drum 62 and the outer drum 66. A first end of a cable 12 is coupled to the output shaft 96 of the motor 94 and extends through the cable guide housing 90 into the space 70 defined between the outer drum 62 and the inner drum 66.

[0038] like Figure 4 As shown, a length L is defined between the end of the output shaft 96 of the motor 94 and the starting point of the guide channel 120. The size of the space defined by the length L allows for alternative drives used with the motor 94 and cable 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the length L is between 1.0 inch and 4.0 inches. Generally, a smaller length L between the motor 94 and the guide channel 120 results in a smaller footprint for the motor 94 and drive 100. The guide channel 120 also defines an arc between the drive 100 and the space 70. The arc may include a radius R extending from the virtual center of the arc, with radius R between 3.0 inches and 6.0 inches. This defines a ratio between the diameter of the spool assembly 16 and the radius R of the arc, between 2.0 and 8.0. In some embodiments, the motor 94 and drive 100 may be angled relative to the inner surface of the inner spool 66. The motor 94 and drive 100 may be positioned at an angle between 2 degrees and 7 degrees relative to the inner surface of the inner spool 66.

[0039] Storage container 88 is located on the side of rotation axis 54 opposite in diameter to motor 94. Storage container 88 can store additional battery pack 106, foot pedal 36, cable accessories, etc. Storage container 88 includes a cover 124, which is selectively movable (e.g., pivotable) to enclose stored materials within storage container 88. Cover 124 can move between open and closed positions while remaining coupled to storage container 88, or can be removed from storage container when in the open position. Cover 124 can be coupled to storage container 88 by clips, buckles, or other fasteners. In other embodiments, storage container 88 can be positioned elsewhere on drain cleaning device 10. For example, storage container 88 can be positioned elsewhere in inner roll 66 or on housing 14 adjacent to control section. In the illustrated embodiment, foot pedal 36 is supported by storage container 88, and the longitudinal axis of foot pedal 36 is perpendicular to vertical plane A. In other embodiments, foot pedal 36 can be supported elsewhere on drain cleaning device 10. For example, foot pedal 36 can be supported by storage container 88, and the longitudinal axis of the foot pedal is parallel to vertical plane A. Figure 9Alternatively, the foot pedal 36 can be supported on the motor housing 82. Figure 10 In other embodiments, the drain cleaning device 10 may include other storage options. For example, the drain cleaning device 10 may include a magnetic strip, a storage hook, or a storage rod 126. Figure 11 Other components of the cable accessory 128 and the drain cleaning device 10 can be coupled to these magnetic strips, storage hooks, storage rods 126, key couplers, etc. Storage rods 126 can be located, for example, on the outer periphery of the housing 14. Each storage rod 126 can extend across a recessed area formed in the housing 14. Cable accessories 128 can be coupled to (e.g., suspended from) the storage rods 126, and the recessed area can at least partially receive the cable accessories 128 to assist in covering and protecting them.

[0040] See you again Figure 1 The direction switch 34 is operable to switch the direction in which the motor 94 rotates the cable (i.e., forward or reverse). In the illustrated embodiment, the direction switch 34 is a slide switch that can slide between a forward position and a reverse position. Figure 12 As shown, in some embodiments, the direction switch 34 may be a toggle switch. In other embodiments, the direction switch 34 may include a Hall effect sensor activated when the toggle switch 34 is moved. A toggle switch can reduce the overall footprint of the control section 26. The toggle switch may be a momentary switch or may be locked in place. For example, it may be necessary to hold the toggle switch in the forward and / or reverse directions to operate the drain cleaning device 10. Alternatively, the toggle switch may be held in the forward and / or reverse directions until subjected to an external force. Control electronics 122 ( Figure 3The control section 26 of the housing 14 is supported. Control electronics 122 are operable to transmit signals from the direction switch 34 and speed control dial 30 to control electronics 114 within the motor housing 82. Control electronics 122 may be similar to control electronics 114 described above. Normally, the user will use the drain cleaning device 10 with the motor 94 rotating the cable in the forward direction. However, if the user uses the drain cleaning device 10 in the reverse direction for too long or continuously, it may cause cable wear. To prevent or stop such use, control electronics 114 controls the motor 94 to run in reverse in a burst rather than continuously. In some embodiments, the drain cleaning device 10 may include indicators, such as LED lights or audible alarms, to inform the user that the motor 94 is in the reverse state or has been in the reverse state for too long. In another embodiment, the drain cleaning device 10 may include a mechanical mechanism, such as a spring-loaded lever or button, which the user presses in addition to normal actuation to cause the drain cleaning device 10 to operate in reverse mode. For example, a reverse button can be located on the control section 26 of the housing 14. When the user activates the motor 94, the user keeps pressing the button so that the motor 94 runs in reverse and rotates the cable 12 in the reverse direction.

[0041] The speed control dial 30 can be rotated to a set position to control the speed at which the motor 94 rotates the cable 12. In other embodiments, the speed control dial 30 can be a variable speed control, allowing the user to control the motor speed based on the position of the speed control dial 30 or as a trigger used as an actuator. In other embodiments, the control unit 26 can be supported elsewhere on the drain cleaning device 10. For example, as... Figure 13 As shown, the control section 26 can be located elsewhere on the motor housing 82 or inside the inner drum 66. In this embodiment, the handle 18 and / or the control section 26 can be removed from the housing 14 to further reduce the overall footprint of the drain cleaning device 10. Furthermore, wiring, slip rings, etc., will not need to extend from the drum assembly 16 to the housing 14 to electrically connect the motor 94 and the control section 26. Alternatively, as... Figure 14 As shown, the control unit 26 can also be supported on the foot pedal 36. This allows the user to position the foot pedal 36 in a convenient operating position and have easy access to all controls needed to operate the drain cleaning device 10. Furthermore, as... Figure 5 As shown, the control section 26 can span the inner roll 66 and be coupled to the housing 14 and / or the frame assembly 38.

[0042] In the illustrated embodiment, the drain cleaning cable 12 is also referred to as a flexible spool cable. Compared to a typical drain cleaning cable, the flexible spool cable comprises a wound cable encased in a sheath. The wound cable is operable to rotate within the sheath by a motor 94. The flexible spool cable 12 includes a first end coupled to the motor 94 and a second end operable to extend into the drain pipe for easy cleaning. Specifically, the wound cable is directly coupled at the first end of the cable 12 to the output shaft 96 of the motor 94 to allow the wound cable to rotate within the sheath. The output shaft 96 can be coupled to the cable 12 using a spline connection, a retaining screw, or the like. The portion of the cable 12 between the first and second ends extends from the output shaft 96 through a cavity to coil within a space 70 between an inner spool 62 and an outer spool 66. The second end of the cable extends from the space 70 and passes through a cable outlet 78 on a spool cover 74.

[0043] In some embodiments, the drain cleaning device 10 includes a clutch disposed between the output shaft 96 of the motor 94 and a first end of the cable 12. If the output torque of the motor 94 exceeds a predetermined limit, the clutch is operable to allow slippage between the output shaft 96 and the cable 12 to protect the cable 12. For example, the clutch can be a mechanical clutch, such as a radial roller clutch. Alternatively, the clutch can be a ball spring clutch, a friction plate clutch, a friction cone clutch, and an electromechanical clutch. The mechanical clutch may include a first setting for rotating the output shaft 96 in the forward direction and a second setting for rotating the output shaft 96 in the reverse direction. The first and second settings may also differ. For example, the second setting may allow the clutch to slip at a predetermined limit lower than the second setting.

[0044] In other embodiments, the clutch may be an electronic clutch, which senses the output torque of the motor 94, for example, by sensing the current supplied from the battery pack 106 to the motor 94. The electronic clutch can then allow slippage if it senses that the output torque from the motor 94 is above a predetermined limit. Alternatively, the electronic clutch can sense when the current exceeds a predetermined limit and communicate with control electronics 114 to de-energize the drain cleaning device 10. Using an electronic clutch reduces the amount of space required for the drive unit 100 and the motor 94 within the inner drum 66.

[0045] During operation of the drain cleaning device 10, the user can extend the second end of the cable 12 into a drain pipe or other conduit. As the cable 12 is released from the reel assembly 16, the reel assembly 16 rotates in the first direction. Once the second end of the cable encounters a blockage, the user can depress the foot pedal 36 to start the motor 94 and cause the cable winding to rotate within the sheath. Depending on the position of the direction switch 34, the cable winding will rotate clockwise or counterclockwise within the sheath. As the cable winding rotates, the cable accessory assists in removing debris or blockages. Alternatively, the user can first force the second end of the cable 12 through debris in the drain pipe before starting the motor 94. Then, the user can depress the foot pedal 36 to start the motor 94 while retracting the cable 12 from the drain pipe. The motor 94 rotates the cable winding and thus the cable accessory to remove debris or blockages. If larger or smaller blockages need to be addressed, the user can also adjust the speed control dial 30 to adjust the rotation speed of the cable winding and cable accessory. As cable 12 is retracting from the drain outlet, the reel assembly 16 rotates in a second direction opposite to the first direction to wind cable 12 back into space 70. Once the drain pipe has been sufficiently cleared of debris and blockages, the user can retract cable 12 from the drain pipe to store the cable in the reel assembly 16.

[0046] In some implementations, control electronics 114 may include a wireless communication device for communicating with an external device such as a smartphone or tablet. The wireless communication device communicates with control electronics 114 based on user input from the external device. For example, a user may use the external device to define operating parameters of the drain cleaning device 10, such as the minimum and maximum torque or revolutions per minute of the output shaft 96 of the motor 94.

[0047] Compared to drain cleaning devices that rely on a drive drum assembly to generate friction to rotate the cable, the motor 94 that directly drives the cable in the drain cleaning device 10 allows the cable to rotate with higher torque. Rotating the cable with higher torque cleans drains or other conduits more efficiently.

[0048] Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with certain embodiments, variations and modifications are possible within the scope and spirit of the invention. Various features and advantages are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A drain pipe cleaning device, characterized in that, include: case; A reel assembly supported by the housing, the reel assembly including an inner reel, an outer reel, and a space defined between the inner reel and the outer reel, the space being configured to store a flexible cable, the reel assembly being configured to rotate about a rotation axis; A motor, supported by the reel assembly, includes an output shaft; and A battery socket, supported by the reel assembly, configured to receive a battery pack that supplies power to the motor; The roll assembly defines an outer diameter measured via the axis of rotation; The spool assembly is defined at a height measured in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation; and The ratio defined by the outer diameter of the roll assembly to the height of the roll assembly is between 2.5 and 3.

5.

2. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The outer diameter of the roll assembly is less than 18 inches.

3. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The space is configured to keep the flexible cables stacked in a single row.

4. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes a handle supported by the housing, the handle being movable between a storage position and a use position, in which the handle is flush with or recessed relative to the housing, and in the use position, the handle extending from the housing.

5. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, It further includes a cage-like frame assembly, the cage-like frame assembly including a plurality of rods supporting the housing.

6. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The inner and outer rolls are cylindrical, with an open front end and a closed rear end.

7. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The battery socket is movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the battery pack is coupled to the battery socket, and in the second position, the battery pack and / or the battery socket are prevented from interfering with the operation of the drain cleaning device.

8. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 7, characterized in that, When the battery pack is coupled to the battery socket and the battery socket is in the first position, the longitudinal axis of the battery pack is parallel to the axis of rotation, and when the battery pack is coupled to the battery socket and the battery socket is in the second position, the longitudinal axis of the battery pack is perpendicular to the axis of rotation.

9. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, Further includes: Control electronics, the control electronics being used to control the operation of the motor; An actuator for actuating the motor; and A reverse switch that communicates with the control electronics.

10. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The reverse switch is a toggle position switch.

11. The drain pipe cleaning device as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The reel assembly is a first reel assembly that supports a cable of a first size, wherein the drain cleaning device further includes a second reel assembly that supports a cable of a second size different from the first size, and wherein the first reel assembly and the second reel assembly are interchangeable.

12. A drain pipe cleaning device, characterized in that, include: case; A spool assembly supported by the housing, the spool assembly including an inner spool, an outer spool, and a space defined between the inner spool and the outer spool, the spool assembly being configured to rotate about a rotation axis, the spool assembly defining an outer diameter measured through the rotation axis; A motor, supported by the reel assembly, the motor including an output shaft defining a motor axis; A transmission device, which is coupled to the output shaft and supported by the drum assembly; A flexible cable, stored within the space, operable to receive torque from the motor; and A cable guide, supported by the reel assembly, configured to guide a portion of the flexible cable from the motor into the space, the cable guide defining an arc extending between the output shaft and the space, the arc including a radius extending from a virtual center of the arc; The ratio defined by the outer diameter of the roll assembly to the radius of the arc is between 2.0 and 6.

0.

13. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 12, characterized in that, A length is defined between the output shaft of the motor and the cable guide, and the length is between 1 inch and 4 inches.

14. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The motor, the transmission device, and the cable guide are supported on the inner surface of the inner drum.

15. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 14, characterized in that, The motor and the transmission are supported by the drum assembly at an angle relative to the inner surface.

16. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 15, characterized in that, The motor axis defines an angle between 2 and 7 degrees relative to the inner surface of the inner drum.

17. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 12, characterized in that, It further includes an electronic clutch that senses the output torque of the motor.

18. A drain pipe cleaning device, characterized in that, include: A housing, the housing including a top side, a bottom side opposite to the top side, a rear side, and a front side opposite to the rear side; A reel assembly supported by the housing, the reel assembly including an inner reel, an outer reel, and a space defined between the inner reel and the outer reel, the space being configured to store a flexible cable, the reel assembly being configured to rotate about a rotation axis; A motor, supported by the drum assembly, the motor including an output shaft; A battery socket, supported by the reel assembly, configured to receive a battery pack that supplies power to the motor; and A foot pedal, operable to activate the motor, is supported within the reel assembly.

19. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 18, characterized in that, It further includes a storage container located within the roll assembly.

20. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 19, characterized in that, The foot pedal is removably supported by the storage container.

21. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 19, characterized in that, The storage container is located on the side of the rotation axis opposite to the diameter of the motor.

22. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 18, characterized in that, It further includes a motor housing supported by the reel assembly, wherein the motor is positioned within the motor housing.

23. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 22, characterized in that, The motor housing supports the foot pedal within the drum assembly.

24. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 18, characterized in that, Also includes: Control electronics, the control electronics being used to control the operation of the motor; An actuator for actuating the motor; and A reverse switch that communicates with the control electronics.

25. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 24, characterized in that, The actuator and the reverse switch are positioned on the foot pedal.

26. The drain pipe cleaning device as described in claim 18, characterized in that, The housing support is configured as a storage rod to support cable accessories.

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