Drain cleaning device

Abstract

A drain cleaning device has a housing, a drum assembly held by the housing, the drum assembly comprising an inner drum, an outer drum, and a space formed between them configured for storing a flexible rope. The drum assembly is configured to rotate about a pivot axis. A drain cleaning device may include a motor held by the drum assembly, the motor having an output shaft, and a battery compartment held by the drum assembly configured to accommodate a battery pack that supplies power to the motor.The drum arrangement defines an outer diameter measured through the axis of rotation, and the drum arrangement defines a height measured in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation; and the ratio defined by the outer diameter of the drum arrangement and the height of the drum arrangement is between 2.5 and 3.5.

Description

Reference to related applications

[0001] This application claims priority over preliminary US patent application No. 63 / 637,988, which was filed on April 24, 2024, the entire contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Background of the Revelation

[0002] The present application relates to drain cleaning devices for cleaning drains, pipes or other conduits, in particular a drain cleaner with a flexible shaft.

[0003] Flexible shaft drain cleaners are known as high-speed drain cleaners because they contain motors that rotate the rope at higher speeds. This increased speed is achieved by directly driving the rope with the torque of a motor / drive mechanism. Furthermore, flexible shaft drain cleaners incorporate improved ropes to withstand these higher speeds. Flexible shaft pulleys differ from traditional drain cleaner ropes and typically feature coiled ropes encased in sheathing. overview

[0004] In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a drain cleaning device comprising: a housing; a drum assembly held by the housing, the drum assembly comprising an inner drum, an outer drum and a space bounded between them for storing a flexible cable ora drum assembly is configured to rotate about an axis of rotation; a motor held by the drum assembly, the motor having an output shaft; and a battery compartment supported by the drum assembly, the battery compartment being configured to hold a battery pack that supplies power to the motor; the drum assembly defining an outside diameter measured through the axis of rotation; the drum assembly defining a height measured in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation; and the ratio of the outside diameter of the drum assembly to the height of the drum assembly defined by the drum assembly being between 2.5 and 3.5.

[0005] In some aspects, the techniques described here relate to a drain cleaning device comprising: a housing; a drum assembly held by the housing, the drum assembly comprising an inner drum, an outer drum, and a space bounded between them, the drum assembly configured to rotate about an axis of rotation, the drum assembly defining an outside diameter measured through the axis of rotation; a motor held by the drum assembly, the motor having an output shaft defining a motor axis; a gearbox coupled to the output shaft and held by the drum assembly; a flexible rope mounted in the space, the flexible rope configured to receive a torque from the motor;and a rope guide held by the drum assembly, wherein the rope guide is configured to guide a section of the flexible rope from the motor to the space, the rope guide forming an arc extending between the output shaft and the space, the arc having a radius extending from a virtual center point of the arc; wherein a ratio defined by the outer diameter of the drum assembly to the radius of the arc is between 2.0 and 6.0.

[0006] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a drain cleaning device comprising: a housing with a top, a bottom opposite the top, a back, and a front opposite the back; a drum assembly held by the housing, the drum assembly comprising an inner drum, an outer drum, and an intermediately bounded space configured for storing a flexible rope, the drum assembly configured to rotate about a pivot axis; a motor held by the drum assembly, the motor having an output shaft; a battery compartment supported by the drum assembly, configured to receive a set of batteries that supplies power to the motor; and a foot pedal that can be actuated to switch on the motor, the foot pedal being storeable in the drum assembly.

[0007] Further aspects of the invention will become apparent from the detailed description and the accompanying drawings. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a front perspective view of a drain cleaning device. Fig. Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the drain cleaning device. Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of the drain cleaning device. Fig. 1 along lines 3-3 in Fig. 1. Fig. 3A is a perspective view of the drain cleaning device from Fig. 3 with a detailed illustration of a flat bearing. Fig. 3B is a perspective view of the drain cleaning device from Fig. 1, with parts removed. Fig. Figure 4 is a top view of the drain cleaning device made of Fig. 1, with parts removed. Fig. Figure 5 is a perspective view of the drain cleaning device. Fig. 1 with a frame arrangement. Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the drain cleaning device. Fig. 1 with a handle in a retracted position or position. Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective view of a battery compartment of the drain cleaning device. Fig. 1 in a first position or location. Fig. Figure 8 is a perspective view of the battery compartment. Fig. 8 in a second position or position. Fig. Figure 9 is a front view of a drain cleaning device according to a further embodiment. Fig. Figure 10 is a front view of a drain cleaning device according to a further embodiment. Fig. Figure 11 is a perspective view of a storage device for use with the drain cleaning device from Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 12 is a front view of the drain cleaning device made of Fig. 1 with a reversing switch according to a further embodiment. Fig. Figure 13 is a front view of a drain cleaning device according to a further embodiment. Fig. Figure 14 is a perspective view of a foot pedal for use with the drain cleaning device from Fig. 1 according to a further embodiment.

[0008] Before embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it should be noted that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of the construction and the arrangement of the components set out in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention allows for other embodiments and various methods of implementation or execution. Detailed description

[0009] Fig. 1 and Fig. Figure 2 shows a drain cleaning device 10 that can be used to remove and clean deposits 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 configured to rotate a drain cleaning rope 12 at a relatively high speed. As described below, the drain cleaning rope 12 can contain a wrapped rope or other suitable rope arranged within a sheath. The wrapped rope is driven (e.g., rotated) by the drain cleaning device 10 within the sheath to remove deposits from a conduit. In the illustrated embodiment, the drain cleaning device 10 can be referred to as a mini or small flexible-shaft drain cleaner.For example, the drain cleaning device 10 may have a rope with a diameter of 1 / 4 inch and a length of about 35 feet, while standard flexible-shaft drain cleaning devices may have a rope with a diameter of 5 / 16 inch and a length of about 75 feet. Generally, the rope 12 has a total length between 30 and 50 feet. Therefore, the drain cleaning device 10 is lighter and easier to transport than conventional flexible drain cleaning devices.

[0010] The drain cleaning device 10 comprises a housing 14 and a drum assembly 16, which is supported or held by the housing 14. The housing 14 has a handle 18 on a first side or top of the housing 14 and a stand 22 on a second side or bottom of the housing 14. The housing 14 has a control section 26, which is positioned below the handle 18. The control section 26 has a rotary knob 30 for speed control and a direction switch 34. An actuating element (e.g., a foot pedal 36) is arranged within the drum assembly 16, which can be actuated to activate the drain cleaning device 10. In some embodiments, the foot pedal 36 can be coupled to a part of the control section 26 (e.g., via a cable) to activate the drain cleaning device 10.In other embodiments, the drain cleaning device 10 can be activated by a drill-like trigger or button. The drill-like trigger or button can be positioned on the control section 26 of the housing 14 or on another section of the drain cleaning device 10 (e.g., on the handle 18). In some embodiments, the housing 14 can be supported by a cage-like frame arrangement 38 that holds the drain cleaning device 10, as shown in [Figure]. Fig. Figure 5 shows that the frame assembly 38 or the housing 14 may have wheels 40, which enable a user to transport the drain cleaning device 10 across a surface. The frame assembly 38 may be formed from several rods and connecting elements joined together by welding, fasteners, or the like.

[0011] In the illustrated embodiment, the handle 18 is in a first position or position ( Fig. 1) and a second position or location ( Fig. 6) movable (e.g., pivotable). The first position can also be referred to as the unfolded position, extended position, or working position. The second position can 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 connected to the housing 14 by means of fasteners, pivot joints, or other known coupling elements. 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 requiring less space to facilitate work in confined spaces. In other embodiments, the handle 18 can be extendable to facilitate transport of the drain cleaning device 10 by a user.For example, the handle 18 can be moved linearly and / or telescoped between the first and second layers. The drain cleaning device 10 is in an upright position ( ). Fig. 1), in which the stand 22 supports the drain cleaning device 10 on a surface, and a working position ( Fig. 3), in which the rear of the housing 14 supports the drain cleaning device 10 on the surface, is movable. However, the drain cleaning device 10 can be operated in both the upright and working positions. Using the drain cleaning device 10 in the upright position reduces its overall space requirement.

[0012] According to Fig. In the embodiment shown, the drum assembly 16 is held by the housing 14 and is rotatable relative to the housing 14 about a pivot axis 54. The drum assembly 16 is held to the housing 14 by a support shaft 58, which defines the pivot axis 54. The drum assembly 16 has an outer drum 62 and an inner drum 66 coupled to the outer drum 62, which rotates with it. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer and inner drums 62 and 66 are cylindrical with an open front end and a closed rear end. The inner drum 66 has a smaller diameter than the outer drum 62 to form a space 70 between them. The drain cleaning rope 12 can be held in the space 70. A bearing 72 is arranged between the inner drum 66 and the support shaft 58 to allow rotation of the drum assembly 16 relative to the support shaft 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the drum assembly 16 is loosely mounted on the support shaft 58.In other words, the drum assembly 16 can rotate freely on the support shaft 58. In other embodiments, the drum assembly 16 can be driven by a motor to rotate with or around the support shaft 58. Additionally, several flat bearings 73 ( Fig. 3A) arranged between the drum assembly 16 and the housing 14. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3B, the planar bearings 73 are spaced circumferentially around an inner surface of the housing 14 between the housing 14 and the outer drum 62. Each planar bearing 73 has a housing 75 that forms a slot 76 for receiving a rolling bearing 77 (e.g., metal balls) that can roll in place. The rolling bearings 77 protrude from the slot 76 and engage a rear face of the drum assembly 16, allowing the drum assembly 16 to rotate smoothly about the axis of rotation 54 without unwanted friction between the housing 14 and the drum assembly 16.

[0013] It was further on Fig. Reference is made to Figure 3; the drum assembly 16 defines a diameter D, measured through the axis of rotation 54 between the outer circumference of the outer drum 62. The drum assembly 16 also defines a height H, measured in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the diameter D can be in a range between 14 inches and 22 inches. The height H can be in a range between 4 inches and 8 inches. Thus, a ratio between the diameter D and the height H of the drum assembly 16 is defined. The ratio of the diameter D to the height H of the drum assembly 16 can be in a range between 1.75 and 5.5. In other embodiments, the ratio of the diameter D to the height H of the drum assembly 16 can be in a range between 2.5 and 3.5. In some embodiments, the ratio of the diameter D to the height H of the drum assembly 16 can be at least 2.In other embodiments, the ratio of the diameter D to the height H of the drum assembly can be less than 5. Furthermore, the space 70 between the inner drum 62 and the outer drum 66 is dimensioned such that the rope 12 can be stacked within the drum assembly 16. In particular, the space 70 is dimensioned such that the rope 12 remains stacked in a single row when the rope 12 is retracted into or inserted into the drum assembly 16. Stacking the rope 12 limits the formation of tangling in the rope 12 and improves the efficiency of inserting and removing the rope 12 from the drum assembly 16. The diameter D and the height H of the drum assembly 16 generally depend on the size of the rope to be used with the drain cleaning device 10. For example, a rope with a smaller diameter can have additional length and still fit into the drum assembly 16.In contrast, a rope with a larger diameter and similar length would require a larger drum assembly to fit inside. Consequently, the rope 12 and the drum assembly 16 can be selectively removed from the housing 14 and replaced by drum assemblies and / or ropes of different sizes and types.

[0014] According to Fig. 1 and Fig. 3 A drum cover 74 is arranged over the space 70 to secure the rope 12 between the inner drum 66, the outer drum 62, and the drum cover 74. The drum cover 74 has a rope outlet 78 that leads the rope 12 out of the drum assembly 16, and a rope clamp 46 next to the rope outlet 78 to hold the rope 12 when not in use. The drum cover 74 can be attached to the housing 14 by means of fasteners. The drum cover 74 has several openings 80 through which a user can view and inspect the rope 12. In the Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the rope outlet 78 is located on the right side of the drum cover 74, or in the 3 o'clock position. The rope outlet 78 is also arranged such that the rope 12 extends tangentially to the drum cover 74 when not in use. In other embodiments, the rope outlet 78 can be located on the underside of the drum cover 74, or in the 6 o'clock position; on the left side of the drum cover 74, or in the 9 o'clock position; or on the top of the drum cover 74, or in the 12 o'clock position. In some embodiments, the drum cover 74 can have multiple rope outlets 78 arranged at different positions around the drum cover 74. In other embodiments, the rope outlet 78 can be arranged within a 360-degree radius around the drum cover 74.In further embodiments, the drum cover 74 can be rotatable relative to the drum assembly 16 in order to change the position of the rope exit 78 according to the wishes of a user.

[0015] According to Fig. 1 carries or holds the inner drum 66 of the drum assembly 16 a motor housing 82, a battery housing 86, a storage container 88 and a rope guide housing 90. In Fig. 4 A motor 94 is mounted in the motor housing 82. In some embodiments, the motor 94 can be a brushless DC motor. In other embodiments, the motor 94 can contain brushes. The motor 94 has an output shaft 96, which defines a motor axis 98. The output shaft 96 is configured to be directly coupled to the drain cleaning rope 12 in order to set the rope 12 in rotation. The motor axis 98 is offset from the axis of rotation 54 of the drum assembly 16. More precisely, the motor axis 98 is spaced from the axis of rotation 54 but arranged perpendicular to it. The motor axis 98 is also oriented at an oblique angle to a vertical plane A (when the drain cleaning device 10 is in the upright position) that extends through the axis of rotation 54. The vertical plane A extends through the support shaft 58, the motor 94 and the storage container 88.In other embodiments, the output shaft 96 can be oriented differently.

[0016] A gearbox 100 or gearbox train is also mounted in the motor housing 82 and arranged between the motor 94 and the output shaft 96. In the illustrated embodiment, the gearbox 100 transmits the torque from the motor 94 to the output shaft 96, so that the output shaft 96 directly drives the wound rope, causing it to rotate within the sheath. For example, the gearbox 100 can be a planetary gearbox with one or more stages, a planetary gearbox with one bevel gear set, a planetary gearbox with two bevel gear sets, only two bevel gear sets, a spur gear gearbox, a helical gear gearbox, a multi-speed gearbox, or a continuously variable transmission. In some embodiments, the gearbox 100 can be considered part of the motor 94. In another embodiment, the gearbox 100 can be a separate component from the motor 94, which can be replaced by another gearbox.The gearbox 100 and the motor 94 are dimensioned such that the space requirement within the inner drum 66 is reduced. In particular, the motor 94 and the gearbox 100 define an overall length along the motor shaft 98 that is between 3 inches and 4 inches, and an overall diameter that is between 1 inch and 3 inches.

[0017] According to Fig. In section 4, the battery housing 86 forms a battery compartment 102, which is designed to receive a battery pack t. The battery pack 106 can have any number of different nominal voltages (e.g., 12 V, 18 V, etc.) and be composed of any number of different chemicals (e.g., lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, etc.). The battery pack 106 can supply power to the motor 94 to activate it. The battery pack 106 is a removable battery pack. The battery pack 106 is also a rechargeable battery pack. Alternatively, the motor 94 can be powered via cables from a remote power source (e.g., a household wall outlet).

[0018] In the illustrated embodiment, the battery pack 106 is mounted such that its longitudinal axis runs parallel to the vertical plane A. In other embodiments, the battery pack 106 can be inserted into the battery compartment 102 in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 54. In further embodiments, the battery compartment 102 can be arranged at a different location on the drain cleaning device 10. For example, the battery compartment 102 can be attached to the housing 14. In such an embodiment, the battery pack 106 does not rotate with the drum assembly 16 during a drain cleaning process. Furthermore, the battery compartment 102 can be arranged adjacent to the center of the inner drum 66. In some embodiments, the battery compartment 102 can be placed in a first position ( Fig. 7) and a second layer or position ( Fig. 8) be movable. The first position can also be referred to as the mounting position. The second position can also be referred to as the storage position. In the mounting position, the battery compartment 102, for example, accommodates the battery pack 106 in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation 54. The battery compartment 102 can then be moved (e.g., pivoted) into the storage position so that the battery pack 106 is mounted with its longitudinal axis perpendicular to the axis of rotation 54. By providing a battery compartment 102 that accommodates the battery pack 106 in the mounting position, a user can easily fix the battery pack 106 and then pivot the battery compartment 102 into the storage position to remove the battery pack 106 from an area where it would obstruct the operation of the drain cleaning device 10 and to limit the overall space requirement of the drain cleaning device 10.

[0019] A control electronics unit 114 is arranged in the motor housing 82. In some embodiments, the control electronics unit 114 may be arranged in a housing separate from the motor housing 82. The control electronics unit 114 is oriented in a vertical position. In other words, the longitudinal axis of the control electronics unit 114 is generally oriented perpendicular to the vertical plane A. In some embodiments, the control electronics unit 114 may be oriented with its longitudinal axis at an oblique angle to the vertical plane A. In further embodiments, the control electronics unit 114 may be oriented with its longitudinal axis parallel or perpendicular to the vertical plane A. The control electronics unit 114 may include a controller or a processor that controls the operation of the drain cleaning device 10. In some embodiments, the controller is implemented as a microprocessor with separate memory.In other embodiments, the controller can be implemented as a microcontroller (with memory on the same chip). In further embodiments, the controller can be implemented using multiple processors. Furthermore, the controller can be implemented partially or completely, for example, as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and the like, and the memory may be unnecessary or modified accordingly. The memory can comprise non-volatile, computer-readable memory that stores instructions received by and executed by the controller to perform the functions of the drain cleaning device 10 described herein. The memory can, for example, include a program memory area and a data memory area.The program memory area can include combinations of different memory types, such as read-only memory and random access memory.

[0020] According to Fig. 4 The rope guide housing 90 is coupled to the inner drum 66 adjacent to the motor housing 82. The rope guide housing 90 forms a cavity and a guide channel 120 (e.g., a rope guide) extending from the cavity. The output shaft 96 of the 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 into the inner drum 66 and extends into the space 70 formed between the inner drum and the outer drum 62, 66. A first end of the rope 12 is connected to the output shaft 96 of the motor 94 and extends through the rope guide housing 90 and into the space 70 formed between the outer drum and the inner drum 62, 66.

[0021] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, a length L is defined between the end of the output shaft 96 of the motor 94 and the beginning of the guide channel 120. The size of the space defined by the length L allows the use of alternative gears in conjunction with the motor 94 and the cable 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the length L is between 1.0 inch and 4.0 inches. In general, a shorter length L between the motor 94 and the guide channel 120 allows for a smaller footprint for the motor 94 and the gear 100. The guide channel 120 also forms an arc between the gear 100 and the space 70. The arc can have a radius R extending from a virtual center point of the arc with a length between 3.0 inches and 6.0 inches. Thus, a ratio between the diameter of the drum assembly 16 and the radius R of the arc is defined, which is between 2.0 and 8.0.In some embodiments, the motor 94 and the gearbox 100 can be angled relative to the inner surface of the inner drum 66. The motor 94 and the gearbox 100 can be arranged at an angle between 2 and 7 degrees relative to the inner surface of the inner drum 66.

[0022] The storage container 88 is arranged on the side of the pivot axis 54 diametrically opposite the motor 94. The storage container 88 can accommodate additional battery sets 106, the foot pedal 36, rope accessories, etc. The storage container 88 has a cover 124, which is optionally movable (e.g., pivotable) to enclose storage materials within the container. The cover 124 can be moved into an open or closed position while remaining connected to the storage container 88, or it can be removed from the storage container in the open position. The cover 124 can be attached to the storage container 88 by a clip, a buckle, or another fastening element. In other embodiments, the storage container 88 can be arranged at a different location on the drain cleaning device 10.For example, the storage container 88 can be arranged at a different location in the inner drum 66 or on the housing 14 next to the control section. In the illustrated embodiment, the foot pedal 36 is held by the storage container 88 with a longitudinal axis of the foot pedal 36 perpendicular to the vertical plane A. In other embodiments, the foot pedal 36 can be held at a different location on the drain cleaning device 10. For example, the storage container 88 can hold the foot pedal 36 such that a longitudinal axis of the foot pedal is parallel to the vertical plane A. Fig. 9). Alternatively, the foot pedal 36 can be attached to the motor housing 82 ( Fig. 10). In further embodiments, the drain cleaning device 10 may have further storage options. For example, the drain cleaning device 10 may have magnetic strips, storage hooks, storage rods 126 ( Fig. 11), button couplings, etc., to which rope accessories 128 and other components of the drain cleaning device 10 can be coupled. The support rods 126 can, for example, be arranged on an outer circumference of the housing 14. Each support rod 126 can extend over a recessed area formed in the housing 14. The rope accessories 128 can be coupled to the support rods 126 (e.g., suspended from them), and the recessed areas can at least partially accommodate the rope accessories 128 to cover and protect them.

[0023] According to Fig. 1. The direction switch 34 can be actuated to specify the direction in which the motor 94 rotates the rope (i.e., forward or backward). In the illustrated embodiment, the direction switch 34 is a slide switch that can be moved into the forward and reverse positions. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 12, the direction switch 34 can be a toggle switch in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the direction switch 34 can have a Hall-effect sensor that is activated when the toggle switch 34 is moved. The toggle switch can reduce the overall dimensions of the control section 26. The toggle switch can be momentary or latching. For example, the toggle switch may need to be held in the forward and / or reverse direction to actuate the drain cleaning device 10. Alternatively, the toggle switch can remain in the forward and / or reverse direction until actuated by an external force. A control electronics 122 ( Fig. 3) is housed within the control section 26 of the housing 14. The control electronics 122 serve for communication and for sending signals from the direction switch 34 and the speed controller 30 to the control electronics 114 in the motor housing 82. The control electronics 122 may be similar to the control electronics 114 described above. Generally, the user operates the drain cleaning device 10 while the motor 94 rotates the rope in the forward direction. However, if the user operates the drain cleaning device 10 in reverse for too long or continuously, this can lead to wear of the rope. To prevent or mitigate this, the control electronics 114 controls the motor 94 so that it does not run continuously in reverse, but rather in short intervals.In some embodiments, the drain cleaning device 10 may have an indicator such as an LED light or an audible alarm to alert the user that the motor 94 is running in reverse or has been running in reverse for too long. In another embodiment, the drain cleaning device 10 may have a mechanical mechanism such as a spring-loaded lever or button that a user presses in addition to normal operation to put the drain cleaning device 10 into reverse mode. For example, a reverse button may be arranged on the control section 26 of the housing 14, which a user holds down while activating the motor 94 so that the motor 94 runs in reverse and the rope 12 rotates backward.

[0024] The speed controller 30 can be rotated to a set position to control the speed at which the motor 94 rotates the rope 12. In other embodiments, the speed controller 30 can be a variable speed controller, allowing a user to control the speed or rotational speed of the motor based on the position of the speed controller 30 or a trigger used as an actuating element. In other embodiments, the control section 26 can be located at a different position on the drain cleaning device 10. For example, the control section 26 can be, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 13, the handle 18 and / or the control section 26 can be located on the motor housing 82 or at another location within the inner drum 66. In this embodiment, the handle 18 and / or the control section 26 can be located away from the housing 14 to further reduce the overall dimensions of the drain cleaning device 10. Furthermore, no wiring, slip rings, or the like would be required to run from the drum assembly 16 to the housing 14 to electrically connect the motor 94 and the control section 26. Alternatively, the control section 26 can be located, as shown in Figure 13, on the motor housing 82 or at another location within the inner drum 66. Fig. 14, attached to the foot pedal 36. In this way, the user can position the foot pedal 36 in a convenient operating position and has access to all the controls required to operate the drain cleaning device 10. Furthermore, the control section 26 can extend over the inner drum 66 and be connected to the housing 14 and / or the frame assembly 38, as shown in Fig.5 is shown.

[0025] In the illustrated embodiment, the drain cleaning rope 12 is also known as a flexible rope shaft. Compared to typical drain cleaning ropes, the flexible rope shaft has a wound or spooled rope enclosed in a sheath. The wound rope can be rotated within the sheath by the motor 94. The flexible rope shaft 12 has a first end that is coupled to the motor 94 and a second end that can be inserted into a drain to facilitate cleaning. In particular, the wound rope is directly coupled to the output shaft 96 of the motor 94 at the first end of the rope 12 to rotate the wound rope within the sheath. The output shaft 96 can be coupled to the rope 12 via a splined connection, a setscrew, or the like.The section of rope 12 between the first and second ends extends from the output shaft 96 through the cavity such that it is wound up within the space 70 between the inner drum and the outer drum 62, 66. The second end of the rope extends from the space 70 and through the rope outlet 78 on the drum cover 74.

[0026] In some embodiments, the drain cleaning device 10 has a clutch arranged between the output shaft 96 of the motor 94 and the first end of the rope 12. The clutch can be actuated to allow slippage between the output shaft 96 and the rope 12 when the output torque of the motor 94 exceeds a predetermined limit, thereby protecting the rope 12. The clutch could, for example, be a mechanical clutch, such as a radial roller clutch. Alternatively, the clutch could be a ball-spring clutch, a friction plate, a friction cone, an electromechanical clutch, or the like. The mechanical clutch can have a first setting for when the motor 94 rotates the output shaft 96 in the forward direction and a second setting for when the motor 94 rotates the output shaft 96 in the reverse direction. The first and second settings can be different.For example, the second setting can allow the clutch to slip at a lower predetermined limit than the first setting.

[0027] In other embodiments, the clutch can be an electronic clutch that detects the output torque of the motor 94, for example, by sensing the current supplied to the motor 94 by the battery pack 106. The electronic clutch can then allow slippage if it detects that the output torque of the motor 94 has exceeded a predetermined limit. Alternatively, the electronic clutch can detect when the current exceeds the predetermined limit and communicate with the control electronics 114 to switch off the drain cleaning device 10. Using an electronic clutch reduces the space required for the gearbox 100 and the motor 94 within the inner drum 66.

[0028] During operation of the drain cleaning device 10, a user can insert the second end of the rope 12 into a drain or other pipe. As the rope 12 extends from the drum assembly 16, the drum assembly 16 rotates in a first direction. Once the second end of the rope encounters a blockage, the user can press the foot pedal 36 to activate the motor 94 and rotate the coiled rope within the sheath. Depending on the position of the direction switch 34, the coiled rope rotates either clockwise or counterclockwise within the sheath. As the coiled rope rotates, the rope accessories help to remove the debris or blockage. Alternatively, the user can first push the second end of the rope 12 past the debris in the drain before activating the motor 94.The user can then press the foot pedal 36 to activate the motor 94 while retracting the rope 12 from the drain. The motor 94 rotates the wound rope and, consequently, the rope accessories to remove the debris or blockage. The user can also adjust the speed control 30 to adapt the rotational speed of the wound rope and rope accessories if needed for a larger or smaller blockage. As the rope 12 is retracted from the drain, the drum assembly 16 rotates in a second direction, opposite to the first, to rewind the rope 12 back into space 70. Once the drain is sufficiently clear of debris and blockages, the user can retract the rope 12 from the drain to store it in the drum assembly 16.

[0029] In some embodiments, the 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 the control electronics 114 based on user input via the external device. For example, a user may use the external device to set 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.

[0030] By equipping a drain cleaning device 10 with a motor 94 that directly drives a rope, the rope can be rotated with a higher torque than in drain cleaning devices that drive a drum assembly to generate friction for rotating the rope. Rotating the rope with higher torque allows for more efficient cleaning of a drain or other conduit.

[0031] Although the invention is described with reference to specific embodiments, variations and modifications within the scope and basic concept of the invention are possible. Various features and advantages are listed in the following claims. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 63 / 637,988

[0001]

Claims

[1] A drain cleaning device, comprising: a case; a drum assembly which is held by the housing, wherein the drum assembly comprises an inner drum, an outer drum and a space formed in between which is designed to receive a flexible rope, wherein the drum assembly is designed to rotate about an axis of rotation; a motor which is held by the drum assembly, the motor having an output shaft; and a battery compartment held by the drum assembly, the battery compartment being configured to accommodate a set of batteries that powers the motor; wherein the drum arrangement defines an outer diameter measured through the axis of rotation; wherein the drum arrangement defines a height measured in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation; and where the ratio defined by the outer diameter of the drum assembly and the height of the drum assembly is between 2.5 and 3.

5. [2] The drain cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the outer diameter of the drum arrangement is less than 18 inches. [3] The drain cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the space is designed such that the flexible rope remains stacked in a single row. [4] The drain cleaning device according to claim 1, which further comprises a handle attached to the housing, wherein the handle is movable into a storage position in which the handle is flush with the housing or is set back from the housing and a working position in which the handle extends out of the housing. [5] The drain cleaning device according to claim 1, which further comprises a cage-like frame arrangement with several rods supporting the housing. [6] The drain cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the inner drum and the outer drum are cylindrical with an open front end and a closed rear end. [7] The drain cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the battery compartment is movable into a first position in which the battery pack can be coupled to the battery compartment and a second position in which the battery pack and / or the battery compartment avoid obstructing the operation of the drain cleaning device. [8] The drain cleaning device according to claim 7, wherein a longitudinal axis of the battery pack is parallel to the axis of rotation when the battery pack is coupled to the battery compartment and the battery compartment is in the first position, and wherein the longitudinal axis of the battery pack is perpendicular to the axis of rotation when the battery pack is coupled to the battery compartment and the battery compartment is in the second position. [9] The drain cleaning device according to claim 1, further comprising: a control electronics system for controlling the operation of the motor; an actuating element for operating the motor; and a reversing switch that is connected to the control electronics. [10] The drain cleaning device according to claim 9, wherein the reversing switch is a toggle switch. [11] The drain cleaning device according to claim 1, wherein the drum arrangement is a first drum arrangement carrying a rope of a first size, wherein the drain cleaning device further comprises a second drum arrangement carrying a rope of a second size which differs from the first size, and wherein the first and the second drum arrangement are interchangeable. [12] A drain cleaning device, comprising: a case; a drum assembly which is held by the housing, wherein the drum assembly comprises an inner drum, an outer drum and a space formed in between, wherein the drum assembly is configured to rotate about an axis of rotation, wherein the drum assembly defines an outer diameter measured through the axis of rotation; a motor which is held by the drum assembly, wherein the motor has an output shaft which defines a motor axis; a gearbox that is coupled to the output shaft and held by the drum assembly; a flexible rope that is stored in the space, wherein the flexible rope is designed, to absorb torque from the engine; and a rope guide which is held by the drum assembly, wherein the rope guide is configured to guide a section of the flexible rope from the motor to the space, wherein the rope guide forms an arc extending between the output shaft and the space, the arc having a radius extending from a virtual center point of the arc; where the ratio, defined by the outer diameter of the drum assembly to the radius of the arc, is between 2.0 and 6.

0. [13] The drain cleaning device according to claim 12, wherein a length is defined between the output shaft of the motor and the rope guide and wherein the length is between 1 and 4 inches. [14] The drain cleaning device according to claim 12, wherein the motor, the gearbox and the rope guide are attached to an inner surface of the inner drum. [15] The drain cleaning device according to claim 14, wherein the motor and the gearbox are held at an angle relative to the inner surface of the drum assembly. [16] The drain cleaning device according to claim 15, wherein the motor shaft forms an angle between 2 and 7 degrees relative to the inner surface of the inner drum. [17] The drain cleaning device according to claim 12, which further comprises an electronic coupling that detects an output torque of the motor. [18] A drain cleaning device, comprising: a case with a top, a bottom opposite the top, a back and a front opposite the back; a drum assembly held by the housing, wherein the drum assembly comprises an inner drum, an outer drum and a space formed in between which is designed to receive a flexible rope, wherein the drum assembly is rotatable about an axis of rotation; a motor held by the drum assembly, the motor having an output shaft; a battery compartment held by the drum assembly, the battery compartment being configured to receive a set of batteries that supplies power to the motor; and a foot pedal designed to activate the motor, the foot pedal being storable in the drum assembly. [19] The drain cleaning device according to claim 18, which further comprises a storage container arranged in the drum arrangement. [20] The drain cleaning device according to claim 19, wherein the foot pedal is detachably attached to the storage container. [21] The drain cleaning device according to claim 19, wherein the storage container is arranged on a side of the axis of rotation diametrically opposite the motor. [22] The drain cleaning device according to claim 18, which further comprises a motor housing held by the drum assembly, wherein the motor is arranged in the motor housing. [23] The drain cleaning device according to claim 22, wherein the foot pedal in the drum arrangement is held by the motor housing. [24] The drain cleaning device according to claim 18, further comprising: a control electronics system for controlling the operation of the motor; an actuating element for switching on the motor; and a reversing switch that is connected to the control electronics. [25] The drain cleaning device according to claim 24, wherein the actuating element and the reversing switch are arranged on the foot pedal. [26] The drain cleaning device according to claim 18, wherein the housing supports a support rod designed to hold a rope accessory.

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