Fish tape deployment

Abstract

Disclosed is a device for deploying fish tape comprising a) a body assembly including: i. a worm drive comprising a worm and a worm wheel, wherein axial rotation of the worm leads to rotation of the worm wheel around an axis of the worm wheel; and ii. a sheave comprising a circumferential groove wherein the sheave coaxially rotates with the worm wheel, the worm wheel and the sheave together constituting a wheel pair; and b) a cover assembly comprising a traction element, the body assembly and the cover assembly together having an open state and a closed state, wherein in the closed state the body assembly and the cover assembly are mated so that the traction element of the cover assembly prevents a fish tape positioned inside the groove from laterally exiting the groove and rotation of said sheave axially propels a fish tape positioned in said groove.

Description

[0001] FISH TAPE DEPLOYMENT

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to devices for deploying fish tape and methods of use thereof.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In the construction field, electrical conduits, for example PVC pipes, are built into or behind walls. Wiring (including cables, fibers and the like) for providing electrical power, communication and the like are installed in the conduits, for example after the walls are built or when new wiring is required. Since wiring is very flexible, it is not practical to push wiring through an electrical conduit.

[0006] Fish tape (also called draw wire, draw tape, or electrician's snake) is a tool used for routing wiring through electrical conduits. Fish tape is sufficiently flexible yet sufficiently rigid to be pushed into and through electrical conduits including curves and elbows.

[0007] In an exemplary use, a user pushes the distal end of a fish tape through an electrical conduit starting from a proximal opening thereof. In some instances, such pushing is accompanied by pulling the fish tape back or axially rotating the fish tape to pass through a curved portion of the conduit, such as an elbow. When the distal end of the fish tape emerges from the distal opening of the electrical conduit, the user attaches a string (or similar) to the distal end of the fish tape and pulls the fish tape together with the string back out through the proximal opening of the electrical conduit. The user then detaches the fish tape from the string, attaches the desired wiring to the string, then pulls the string together with the wiring through the conduit.

[0008] Fish tape can be deployed manually, with non-motorized devices (such as that disclosed in U.S. 11,855,424) and motorized fish tape dispensers (e.g. Cordless Electric Powered Fish Tape Dispenser MT2001P by Lishou Industrial Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China).

[0009] It would be useful to have methods and device suitable for deploying fish tape that have one or more advantages over known methods and devices. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The invention, in some embodiments, relates to devices suitable for deploying fish tape and methods of use thereof.

[0011] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the teachings herein, there is provided a device suitable for deploying fish tape, comprising: a) a body assembly including: i. a worm drive comprising a worm and a worm wheel functionally-associated with the worm, so that axial rotation of the worm leads to rotation of the worm wheel around an axis of the worm wheel; and ii. a sheave comprising a circumferential groove physically-associated with the worm wheel so that the sheave coaxially rotates with the worm wheel, the worm wheel and the physically-associated sheave together constituting a wheel pair, the groove of the sheave dimensioned to contain a fish tape therein; and b) a cover assembly comprising a traction element, the body assembly and the cover assembly together having at least two states: an open state wherein the groove of the sheave is exposed allowing positioning of a fish tape in the groove, and a closed state wherein the body assembly and the cover assembly are mated so that the traction element of the cover assembly prevents a fish tape positioned inside the groove from laterally exiting the groove and so that rotation of the sheave axially propels a fish tape positioned in the groove.

[0012] In some embodiments, the worm drive comprises a single wheel pair. Alternatively, in some embodiments the worm drive comprises at least two wheel pairs: wherein grooves of the respective sheaves of the at least two wheel pairs are aligned so that a fish tape can be placed in the grooves without kinking; and wherein respective worm wheels of the at least two wheel pairs are functionally associated with the worm so that rotation of the worm leads to simultaneous rotation of the worm wheels.

[0013] In some embodiments, the groove is selected from the group of grooves consisting of a V-groove, a U-groove and an undercut U-groove. In some embodiments, the surface of the groove (the surface of groove that is in contact with a fish tape) is smooth. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the surface of the groove comprises surface features to increase traction between the groove and a fish tape located therein.

[0014] In some embodiments, a fish tape that is being axially propelled in the device is also axially rotated. In some such embodiments, the groove of the sheave comprises features that interact with a fish tape located therein so that rotation of the sheave that axially propels the fish tape also leads to axial rotation of the fish tape.

[0015] In some embodiments, in the open state the cover assembly and the body assembly are physically separated.

[0016] In some embodiments, the cover assembly and the body assembly are movably physically connected and: in the open state the cover assembly is moved away from the body assembly so that the groove of the sheave is exposed; and in the closed state the cover assembly is moved towards the body assembly so that the body assembly and the cover assembly are mated.

[0017] In some such embodiments, the cover assembly and the body assembly are movably physically connected by a hinge.

[0018] In some embodiments, in the closed state the traction element of the cover assembly presses a fish tape positioned inside the groove against a surface of the groove.

[0019] In some embodiments, the traction element comprises an immobile concave surface against which an axially propelled fish tape contained in the groove can slide.

[0020] In some embodiments, the traction element comprises a retention wheel which rotates when contacted by an axially-propelled fish tape contained in the groove of the sheave. In some such embodiments, such a retention wheel includes a circumferential groove.

[0021] In some embodiments, the device further comprises an electric motor for axially rotating the worm. In some embodiments the shaft of such an electric motor is directly attached to the worm, so that when the electric motor is activated, the shaft axially rotates the worm without any intervening gear. In some embodiments, the device further comprises components allowing provision of electrical power to the electric motor for operation thereof. In some embodiments, the device is configured to reversibly attach to a power tool, wherein operation of an attached power tool leads to axial rotation of the worm. In some such embodiments, such configuration comprises an end of the worm being configured to attach to a chuck of the power tool. In some such embodiments, the device is further configured to prevent rotation of the body assembly relative to an attached power tool.

[0022] Aspects and embodiments of the invention are described in the specification herein below and in the appended claims.

[0023] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0024] Some embodiments of the invention are described herein with reference to the accompanying figures. The description, together with the figures, makes apparent to a person having ordinary skill in the art how some embodiments of the invention may be practiced. The figures are for the purpose of illustrative discussion and no attempt is made to show structural details of an embodiment in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention. For the sake of clarity, some objects depicted in the figures are not to scale.

[0025] In the Figures:

[0026] FIGs. 1A to 1G schematically depict an embodiment of a device according to the teachings herein:

[0027] FIG. 1A presents a perspective view towards the top front of the device in a closed state,

[0028] FIG. IB presents a perspective view towards the side of the device in an open state,

[0029] FIG. 1C presents a view towards the top of the device in an open state,

[0030] FIG. ID presents a view towards the front of the device in an open state,

[0031] FIG. IE presents a perspective view towards the top front of the internal mechanism in a closed state of the device,

[0032] FIG. IF presents a perspective view towards the top front of the internal mechanism in a closed state of the device,

[0033] FIG. 1G presents a schematic view of details of wheel-pair construction; FIGs. 2A, 2B and 2C schematically depict embodiments of sheaves with different groove cross section;

[0034] FIG. 3 schematically depicts an embodiment of a device comprising features allowing axial rotation of a fish tape, a perspective view into the device in the open state; and FIG. 4 presents a perspective view towards the side of an embodiment of a device in a closed state with a fish tape.

[0035] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] The invention, in some embodiments, relates to devices suitable for deploying fish tape and methods of use thereof.

[0037] The principles, uses and implementations of the teachings of the invention may be better understood with reference to the accompanying description and figures. Upon perusal of the description and figures present herein, one skilled in the art is able to implement the teachings of the invention without undue effort or experimentation. In the figures, like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout.

[0038] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth herein. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. The phraseology and terminology employed herein are for descriptive purpose and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0039] An exemplary embodiment of a device according to the teachings herein, device 10, is schematically depicted in FIGs. 1 A to 1HG

[0040] FIG. 1A presents a perspective view towards the top front of device 10 in a closed state; FIG. IB presents a perspective view towards a side of device 10 in an open state; FIG. 1C presents a view towards the top of device 10 in an open state; FIG. ID presents a view towards a front end 12 of device 10 in an open state; FIG. IE presents a perspective view towards the top front of an internal mechanism 14 in a closed state of device 10; FIG. IF presents a perspective view towards the top front of internal mechanism 14 in a closed state of device 10, and FIG. 1G presents a schematic view of details of construction of a wheelpair 16. Device 10 comprises a body assembly 18 that includes a body shell 18a and cover assembly 20 that includes a cover shell 20a. Body shell 18a and cover shell 20a may contain additional components of device 10.

[0041] As seen in FIGs. 1 A-G, and in particular detail in FIGs. IE and IF, body assembly 18 of device 10 includes (in device 10, inside body shell 18a): i. a worm drive 22 comprising a worm 24 and a worm wheel 26 functionally- associated with worm 24, so that rotation of worm 24 around worm-axis 24a leads to rotation of worm wheel 26 around worm wheel axis 26a; and ii. a sheave 28 comprising a circumferential groove 30 physically-associated with worm wheel 26 so that sheave 28 coaxially rotates with worm wheel 26, worm wheel 26 and physically-associated sheave 28 together constituting a wheel pair 16, groove 30 of sheave 28 dimensioned to contain a fish tape 32 therein.

[0042] As seen in FIGs. 1 A-G, device 10 comprises four wheel pairs 24.

[0043] Details of the construction of wheel pairs 24 of device 10 are depicted in FIG. 1G. In FIG. 1G, a sheave assembly 34 is a monolithic unit of machined metal including sheave 28, mounting ring 36 and axle 38 on which are mounted a worm wheel 26 (which hub is secured on mounting ring 36 using a cylindrical press fit) and a bearing 40.

[0044] Cover assembly 20 (in device 10, inside cover shell 20a), comprises a traction element 42. In device 10, traction element 42 comprises three independently-rotatable retention wheels 44 of plastic.

[0045] Body assembly 18 and cover assembly 20 together have at least two states, a closed state as depicted in FIGs. 1A, IE and IF and an open state as depicted in FIGs. IB, 1C and ID.

[0046] As seen in particular detail in FIGs. IB and 1C in the open state, groove 30 of sheave 28 is exposed, allowing positioning of fish tape 32 in groove 30. FIGs. IB and 1C show positioning of fish tape 32 in groove 30. A person having ordinary skill in the art, perusing the figures, is able to understand how fish tape 32 can be easily removed from groove 30 by moving device 10 away from fish tape 32 and how fish tape 32 can subsequently be positioned in groove 30, at any portion along the length of fish tape 32, by simply placing fish tape 32 into groove 30. As seen in particular detail in FIGs. IE and IF, in the closed state, body assembly 18 and cover assembly 20 are mated so that retention wheels 44 of traction element 42 of cover assembly 20 prevent fish tape 32 positioned inside groove 30 from laterally exiting groove 30. Further, traction element 42 ensures that there is sufficient traction between fish tape 32 and groove 30 so that rotation of sheave 28 axially propels fish tape 32 that is positioned in groove 30.

[0047] For use of the device to deploy a fish tape, the fish tape is first positioned in the groove.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, while the device is in the open state (e.g., Figure IB) a user places a length of fish tape 32 in exposed groove 30 of a sheave 28. The user then puts the device in the closed state so that body assembly 18 and cover assembly 20 are mated. As seen in Figures IE and IF, in the closed state, traction element 42 (specifically retention wheels 44 of traction element 42), prevents fish tape 32 from laterally exiting groove 30 and ensures that there is sufficient traction between fish tape 32 and groove 30. Such an embodiment is suitable for any type of fish tape that is of dimensions suitable for deployment with the specific embodiment of the device that is being used.

[0049] Alternatively, while the device is in a closed state a user threads a distal tip 32a of fish tape 32 in a path that passes through grooves 30 of sheaves 28 and the grooves of retention wheels 44 of traction element 42 from a back end 46 of device 10. The user then propels fish tape 32 axially in a distal direction 48, for example by manually pushing fish tape 32 in distal direction 48 from back end 46 towards front end 12 and / or by rotating worm 24 around worm axis 24a in the appropriate direction (manually or with the help of a motor).

[0050] Alternatively, while the device is in a close state, a user threads a proximal tip 32b of fish tape 32 in a path that passes through grooves 30 of sheaves 28 and the grooves of retention wheels 44 of traction element 42 from front end 12 of device 10. The user then propels fish tape 32 axially in a proximal direction 50, for example by manually pushing fish tape 32 in proximal direction 50 from front end 12 towards back end 46 and / or by rotating worm 24 around worm axis 24a in the appropriate direction (manually or with the help of a motor). Once proximal tip 32b of fish tape 32 emerges from back end 46 of device 10.

[0051] Once a fish tape is positioned in the groove and the device is in the closed state, rotation of worm 24 around worm axis 24a (manually or with the help of a motor) causes simultaneous rotation of worm wheel 26 and sheave 28 around worm wheel axis 26a. The rotation of sheave 28 axially propels fish tape 32 that is positioned in groove 30 either in a distal direction 48 (in FIG. IE, counterclockwise rotation of sheaves 28) or in a proximal direction 50 (in FIG. IE, clockwise rotation of sheaves 28).

[0052] In some embodiments of the device, the worm drive comprises a single wheel pair.

[0053] In some preferred embodiments, the worm drive comprises at least two wheel pairs. For example, in device 10 depicted in FIGs. 1A to 1G, worm drive 22 comprises four wheel pairs 16. In such embodiments, the grooves of the respective sheaves of the at least two wheel pairs are aligned so that a fish tape can be placed in the grooves of the sheaves of the at least two wheel pairs without kinking; and the respective worm wheels of the at least two wheel pairs are functionally associated with the same worm so that rotation of the worm leads to simultaneous rotation of all of the worm wheels where the surfaces of the grooves (which the fish tape contacts) move at the same rate. At least one advantage of at least two wheel pairs over a single is that the traction between the device and a fish tape is greater with a greater number of wheel pairs.

[0054] The diameter of the sheaves of a wheel pair are any suitable dimensions. Considering the dimensions of the typical fish tape, the dimensions of a sheave is typically between about 1 cm and about 4 cm.

[0055] The cross sectional shape of the grooves of the sheaves is any suitable shape that allows containing a fish tape and provides sufficient traction to propel a contained fish tape. As known in the art, suitable cross sectional shapes for sheaves include a U-groove (FIG. 2A), an undercut U-groove (FIG. 2B), and a V-groove (FIG. 2C).

[0056] As seen in FIGs. ID and IF, in device 10, grooves 30 have a V-groove cross section.

[0057] In some embodiments, the surface of the groove is smooth. In such embodiments, the traction between the device and the fish tape, inter alia considering the dimensions and surface of the fish tape, the cross sectional shape and dimensions of the groove of the sheaves and the number of sheaves, is sufficient to propel a fish tape.

[0058] In some embodiments, the surface of the groove comprises surface features to increase traction between the groove and a fish tape located therein. Such features can include one or more of surface treatment that increases a surface roughness, bumps, projections, channels, indentations, protrusions, strips and the like. In some embodiments, the device is configured so that a fish tape that is being axially propelled is also axially rotated. Such axial rotation allows a fish tape to more easily pass bends and curves during deployment of fish tape in an electrical conduits. For reasons obvious to a person having ordinary skill in the art, a substantially-straight fish tape can be axially rotated during deployment but a fish tape that is wound on a reel cannot be practically axially rotated.

[0059] In some embodiments, the device comprises a feature such as a plate, a pin or a wheel that applies an asymmetrical lateral force to a fish tape that is being propelled by a sheave of a wheel pair of the device.

[0060] In some embodiments, the groove of the sheave comprises features 60 that interact with a fish tape located therein so that rotation of the sheave that axially propels the fish tape also leads to axial rotation of the fish tape. Exemplary such features include asymmetric roughness of the groove surface, helical slots or ridges on the groove surface and a groove having an asymmetrical cross section. In Figure 3, an embodiment of a device, device 58, includes helical ridges on the surfaces of the grooves 30 of sheaves 28.

[0061] The body assembly and the cover assembly together have at least two states: an open state where the groove of the sheave is exposed (e.g. FIG. 1C) and a closed state where the traction element of the cover assembly prevents a fish tape positioned inside the groove from laterally exiting the groove (e.g. FIGs. 1 A, IE). In some embodiments, in the open state, the cover assembly and the body assembly are physically separated, i.e. are two separate assemblies with no physical connection.

[0062] Alternatively, in some embodiments the cover assembly and the body assembly are movably physically connected and: in the open state the cover assembly is moved away from the body assembly so that the groove of the sheave is exposed; and in the closed state the cover assembly is moved towards the body assembly so that the body assembly and the cover assembly are mated.

[0063] For example, in some such embodiments, the cover assembly and the body assembly are movably physically connected by a hinge. In device 10 depicted in FIGs. 1A to 1G, body assembly 18 and cover assembly 20 are movably physically connected by a hinge 52 and retained in the closed state with a hasp 54. To go from the closed state to an open state, hasp 54 is opened, then cover assembly 20 is moved away from body assembly 18 by rotation around hinge 52.

[0064] As described above, in the closed state the body assembly and the cover assembly are mated so that the traction element of the cover assembly prevents a fish tape positioned inside the groove of the sheave from laterally exiting the groove and also that rotation of the sheave axially propels a fish tape positioned in the groove.

[0065] In some embodiments, in the closed state the traction element of the cover assembly presses a fish tape positioned inside the groove against a surface of the groove. In device 10 depicted in FIGs. 1A to 1G, the three retention wheels 44 of traction element 42 press fish tape 32 against a surface of groove 30 (see FIGs. IE and IF).

[0066] Any suitable traction element having any suitable configuration can be used.

[0067] In some embodiments, the traction element comprises an immobile concave surface against which an axially propelled fish tape contained in the groove can slide. For example, in some such embodiments the immobile concave surface is a curved plate of polished steel.

[0068] In some embodiments, the traction element comprises a retention wheel which rotates when contacted by an axially-propelled fish tape contained in the groove of the sheaves. In some such embodiments, the retention wheel includes a circumferential groove. In device 10, traction element 42 comprises three retention wheels 44 which have circumferential grooves (see FIG. IB).

[0069] In some embodiments, at least part of the traction element is spring-loaded to ensure that components of the traction element press against a fish tape with sufficient force to help ensure a desired level of traction between the fish tape and the groove. In device 10, traction element 42 is spring loaded, being connected to the inner surface of cover assembly shell 20a with a leaf spring (not depicted).

[0070] In some embodiments, a device according to the teachings herein comprises an electric motor for axially rotating the worm. Device 10 depicted in FIGs. 1 A-H comprises an electric motor inside the portion of body assembly shell 18a indicated by 18a" in FIGs. 1A, IB and 1C.

[0071] In preferred embodiments, a shaft of such an electric motor is directly attached to the worm, so that when the electric motor is activated, the shaft of the electric motor axially rotates the worm without any intervening gear. This is possible in part due to the use of a worm drive that can have an inherently high reduction ratio allowing a high-RPM electric motor to be used to rotate a sheave 28 a sufficiently low rate to controllably deploy a fish tape.

[0072] In device 10 depicted in FIGs. 1A-G, the electric motor is directly attached to the worm without any intervening gear.

[0073] In some embodiments the device is configured (e.g. comprises an electric switch) so that an operator can choose at least two device states: a first state where the worm is not rotating so that a fish tape positioned in the groove of the sheave is not propelled and a second state where the worm is rotating in a first direction so that a fish tape positioned in the groove of the sheave is propelled in a direction relative to device 10, defined as a distal (deploying) direction.

[0074] In some embodiments, the device is configured so that an operator can choose only the two device states described above. In some such preferred such embodiments, the configuration comprises the device comprising a two-state electric switch (e.g. a two-position rocker switch, a push-button switch), as known in the art, having: an "ON" state which allows electricity to reach the electric motor to rotate the worm in the first direction; and an "OFF" state which prevents electrical power from reaching the electric motor. Such embodiments have the advantage of being very simple to manufacture and use, cheap and less prone to malfunction.

[0075] Cover assembly 20 of device 10 depicted in FIGS. 1 A-1G comprises a two-state pushbutton switch 56 that is functionally associated with the electric motor and is biased to be ordinarily in an "OFF" state (see FIG. 1 A). , In the "OFF" state, switch 56 is pushed outwards from cover assembly 20 by one or more elastic components (e.g. a leaf spring, a coil spring) and electricity does not reach the electric motor. When switch 56 is pressed downwards (e.g. by the base of the thumb of a user holding device 10), switch 56 allows electricity to reach the electric motor to rotate worm 24 in a first direction so that sheaves 28 rotate in a counterclockwise direction thereby propelling fish tape 32 in a distal direction 48, useful for deploying fish tape into an electrical conduit. A user wishing to propel fish tape 32 in the opposite direction, e.g. to withdraw fish tape 32 from an electrical conduit, puts device 10 in the open state, lifts fish tape 32 off of groove 30, rotates device 10 by 180 degrees, positions fish tape 32 back in groove 30 and puts device 10 back in the closed state. Subsequent pressing of switch 56 leads to rotation of worm 24 and sheaves 28 to propel fish tape in the distal direction 48 (relative to device 10), but due to the 180 degree rotation of device 10 fish tape 32 is moved in the opposite direction to previously, e.g., is withdrawn from an electrical conduit.

[0076] In some embodiments, the device has a partially-closed state where the cover assembly and the body assembly are mated so as to prevent a fish tape positioned inside a groove of a sheave from laterally exiting the groove; and the device being configured so that application of a sufficient compressing force brings the cover assembly and the body assembly together to the closed state from the partially-closed state and release of the compressing force allows the cover assembly and the body assembly to move apart to the partially-closed state from the closed state. In some such embodiments, while the device is in the closed state, a switch is in a state that allows electricity to reach an electrical motor that is a component of the device, to rotate the worm of the device.

[0077] Device 62 depicted in FIG. 4 is substantially similar to device 10 discussed hereinabove with some substantial differences. One substantial difference is that device 62 is devoid of a hasp 54 and a switch 56 that is disposed on the outside of body assembly 18 or cover assembly 20. Instead, device 62 comprises a switch (e.g., a microswitch) inside body assembly shell 18a. For use, from an open state, a fish tape 32 is placed onto grooves of the sheaves. Subsequently, the user rotates cover assembly 20 around hinge 52 so that device 62 is in a partially-closed state. In the partially-closed state, the hand of the user encircles body assembly 18 and cover assembly 20 with the base of the thumb applying pressure to the top of cover assembly 20 which is sufficient for the traction element to prevent fish tape 32 from falling out of device 62. When the user wants to propel fish tape 32, the user closes the hand, which brings body assembly 18 and cover assembly 20 closer together to a closed state. In the closed state, the switch located inside body assembly shell 18a contacts a portion of cover assembly 20. As a result of the contact, the switch allows electricity to reach the electrical motor of device 62 to rotate the worm in order to propel the fish tape 32. If the user releases the hand, body assembly 18 and cover assembly 20 move apart as a result of the action of a leaf spring that is a component of traction element 42 so that device 62 goes to the partially- closed state and the switch is then in a state that prevents electricity from reaching the electrical motor. It is important to note that in FIG. 4, device 62 is depicted without the electric motor and without the portion of the body assembly shell 18a that contains the electric motor, so that the proximal end of worm 24 is seen. When fully assembled, the shaft of the electric motor is directly attached to the proximal end of worm 24 without any intervening gear.

[0078] In some embodiments, the device is configured so that an operator can choose at least one additional device state, a state where the worm is rotating in a second direction opposite the first direction so that a fish tape positioned in the groove of the sheave is propelled in a proximal (withdrawing) direction relative to device 10. In some such embodiments, the configuration comprises the device comprising a three-state electric switch (e.g. a three- position rocker switch) as known in the art having: a "FORWARD" state which allows electricity to reach the electric motor to rotate the worm in the first direction; an "OFF" state which prevents electrical power from reaching the electric motor, and a "BACK" state which allows electricity to reach the electric motor to rotate the worm in the second direction. Such embodiments are useful as these allow a user to use the same device to move a worm tape distally or proximally with the flick of a switch, without needing to reorient the fish worm relative to the device.

[0079] In some embodiments, a device of the teachings herein comprises components allowing provision of electrical power to the electric motor for operation thereof. Such components can include one or more of a power cable, a rechargeable battery that is a component of the device and a cradle configured for reversible attachment of a battery as known in the art of power tools. Device 10 depicted in Figs 1 A-1G comprises a rechargeable battery inside the portion of body assembly shell 18a indicated by 18a" in FIGs. 1A, IB and 1C.

[0080] In some embodiments, the device is configured to reversibly attach to a power tool, wherein operation of an attached power tool leads to axial rotation of the worm. Suitable power tools include a drill, a screwdriver, an impact wrench, an impact driver, a drill driver, a combi drill and an angle drill. Typically, the configuration is for reversible attachment to a hand-held power tool.

[0081] In typical such embodiments, use of the device to deploy fish tape includes using the activation switch of an attached power tool to activate the power tool which rotates the worm, and subsequently the worm wheel and sheave in order to propel a fish tape positioned in the groove of the sheave.

[0082] In some such embodiments, the configuration comprises an end of the worm being configured to attach to a chuck of the power tool. For example, In FIG. 1G, device 10 is depicted without the electric motor and without the portion of the body assembly shell 18a that contains the electric motor, so that the proximal end of worm 24 is seen. In such a state, device 10 can be attached to a power tool such as a drill, specifically, the exposed proximal end of worm 24 is directly connected to the power tool using the chuck of the power tool

[0083] In preferred such embodiments, the device is further configured to prevent rotation of the body assembly relative to an attached power tool, for example, by provision of a rod or flange that prevents such rotation.

[0084] In some embodiments, a device according to the teachings herein comprises a light source configured to project a beam of light in a volume in a proximal direction from the device, that is to say, in the volume towards which a fishtape is propelled by the device for deployment. In preferred embodiments the light is visible light, especially white light. Any suitable light source can be used, in some embodiments at least one light-emitting diode, in some embodiments multiple light-emitting diodes. In some embodiments, the beam has a single beam angle (i.e., is a circular-base cone). In some embodiments, the beam has multiple beam angles, e.g., is wider in one direction and narrower in another direction (e.g., is an ovalbase cone, square).

[0085] The largest beam angle and the smallest beam angle of the beam are any suitable beam angles, typically both being not greater than about 180° and even not greater than about 150°. In some embodiments, the beam angles are both not less than about 2°, not less than about 5° and even not less than about 10°.

[0086] In some embodiments, the light source comprises a dedicated switch, allowing a user to turn the light source on independently of axially propelling a fish tape. Device 10 comprises a light source 64 (See FIGs. 1A and ID), a white-light LED assembly that, when activated, projects a circular base conical beam of light in distal direction 48. Light source 64 an independent power source (button cells (not depicted) held inside cover assembly 20) Activation / deactivation of light source 64 is independent of other functions of device 64. and comprises pressing on the protrusion labelled 64 which functions both as a lens to help shape a beam of projected light and as a toggle switch to activate / deactivate light source 64.

[0087] In some embodiments, a light source receives power from a power source that is used to power an electrical motor that is used to rotate the worm.

[0088] In some embodiments, a light source is activated using the same switch that is used to activate an electrical motor to drive a worm of the device. Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. In case of conflict, the specification, including definitions, takes precedence.

[0089] As used herein, the terms “comprising”, “including”, "having" and grammatical variants thereof are to be taken as specifying the stated features, integers, steps or components but do not preclude the addition of one or more additional features, integers, steps, components or groups thereof. As used herein, the indefinite articles "a" and "an" mean "at least one" or "one or more" unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0090] As used herein, when a numerical value is preceded by the term "about", the term "about" is intended to indicate + / -10%. As used herein, a phrase in the form “A and / or B” means a selection from the group consisting of (A), (B) or (A and B). As used herein, a phrase in the form “at least one of A, B and C” means a selection from the group consisting of (A), (B), (C), (A and B), (A and C), (B and C) or (A and B and C).

[0091] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0092] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the scope of the appended claims.

[0093] Citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A device (10, 58) suitable for deploying fish tape, comprising: a) a body assembly (18) including: i. a worm drive (22) comprising a worm (24) and a worm wheel (26) functionally-associated with said worm (24), so that axial rotation of said worm (24) leads to rotation of said worm wheel (26) around an axis (26a) of said worm wheel (26); and ii. a sheave (28) comprising a circumferential groove (30) physically- associated with said worm wheel (26) so that said sheave (28) coaxially rotates with said worm wheel (26), said worm wheel (26) and said physically- associated sheave (28) together constituting a wheel pair (16), said groove (30) of said sheave (28) dimensioned to contain a fish tape (32) therein; and b) a cover assembly (20) comprising a traction element (42), said body assembly (18) and said cover assembly (20) together having at least two states: an open state wherein said groove (30) of said sheave (28) is exposed allowing positioning of a fish tape (32) in said groove (30), and a closed state wherein said body assembly (18) and said cover assembly (20) are mated so that said traction element (42) of said cover assembly (20) prevents a fish tape (32) positioned inside said groove (30) from laterally exiting said groove (30) and so that rotation of said sheave (28) axially propels a fish tape (32) positioned in said groove (30).

2. The device (10, 58) of claim 1, said worm drive comprising at least two said wheel pairs (16): wherein grooves (30) of respective sheaves (28) of said at least two wheel pairs (16) aligned so that a fish tape (32) can be placed in said grooves (30) without kinking; and wherein respective worm wheels (26) of said at least two wheel pairs (16) are functionally associated with said worm (24) so that rotation of said worm (24) leads to simultaneous rotation of said worm wheels (26).

3. The device (10, 58) of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein said groove (30) is selected from the group of grooves consisting of a V-groove, a U-groove and an undercut U-groove.

4. The device (10, 58) of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the surface of said groove (30) is smooth.

5. The device (10, 58) of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a surface of said groove (30) comprises surface features to increase traction between said groove (30) and a fish tape (32) located therein.

6. The device (58) of any one of claims 1 to 6, configured so that a fish tape (32) that is being axially propelled is also axially rotated.

7. The device (58) of claim 6, wherein said groove (30) of said sheave (28) comprises features (60) that interact with a fish tape (32) located therein so that rotation of said sheave (28) that axially propels the fish tape (32) also leads to axial rotation of the fish tape (32).

8. The device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein in said open state said cover assembly (20) and said body assembly (18) are physically separated.

9. The device (10, 58) of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein said cover assembly (20) and said body assembly (18) are movably physically connected and: in said open state said cover assembly (20) is moved away from said body assembly (18) so that said groove (30) of said sheave (28) is exposed; and in said closed state said cover assembly (20) is moved towards said body assembly (18) so that said body assembly (18) and said cover assembly (20) are mated.

10. The device (10, 58) of claim 9, wherein said cover assembly (20) and said body assembly (18) are movably physically connected by a hinge (52).

11. The device (10, 58) of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein in said closed state said traction element (42) of said cover assembly (20) presses a fish tape (32) positioned inside said groove (30) against a surface of said groove (30).

12. The device (10, 58) of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said traction element (42) comprises an immobile concave surface against which an axially propelled fish tape (32) contained in said groove (30) can slide.

13. The device (10, 58) of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein said traction element (42) comprises a retention wheel (44) which rotates when contacted by an axially-propelled fish tape (32) contained in said groove (30).

14. The device (10, 58) of claim 13, wherein said retention wheel (44) includes a circumferential groove.

15. The device (10, 58) of any one of claims 1 to 14, further comprising an electric motor for axially rotating said worm (24).

16. The device (10, 58) of claim 15, wherein a shaft of said electric motor is directly attached to said worm (24), so that when said electric motor is activated, said shaft axially rotates said worm (24) without any intervening gear.

17. The device (10, 58) of any one of claims 15 to 16, further comprising components allowing provision of electrical power to said electric motor for operation thereof.

18. The device (10, 58) of any one of claims 1 to 14, configured to reversibly attach to a power tool, wherein operation of an attached power tool leads to axial rotation of said worm (24).

19. The device (10, 58) of claim 18, wherein said configuration comprises an end of said worm (24) being configured to attach to a chuck of said power tool.

20. The device (10, 58) of any one of claims 18 to 19, further configured to prevent rotation of said body assembly (18) relative to an attached power tool.

Images