Patent Publication Number: US-2021172162-A1

Title: Powered drain cleaner with flex shaft

Description:
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part (CIP) application and claims priority from U.S. nonprovisional application Ser. No. 16/420,383 filed on May 23, 2019, which claims priority upon U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/797,744 filed Jan. 28, 2019. This application also claims priority from U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 62/976,714 filed Feb. 14, 2020. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The present subject matter relates to drain cleaning machines, systems, and equipment used in performing drain cleaning. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Flex shaft type drain cleaners use a flexible cable enclosed within a non-rotating sheath. The cable and sheath typically are positioned inside a round channel of a drum. The drum rotates when cable is pulled out from the drum. To power these machines, an electric motor is typically used. The motor is either enclosed within the drain cleaner and rotates with the drum, or the motor is stationary and positioned outside the drum and drives the cable through multiple right-angle gear boxes. 
     Flex shaft type drain cleaners are typically operated in a horizontal orientation, in which the drum rotates about a vertically oriented shaft. This enables the cable to stack neatly around the interior drum channel. In addition, for versions of the drain cleaners in which the motor is enclosed within the drain cleaner and rotates with the drum, the weight of the motor inhibits the drain cleaner from being operated in a vertical orientation, in which the drum rotates about a horizontally oriented shaft. 
     For a variety of reasons described herein, it would be beneficial for a flex shaft type drain cleaner to be able to operate in a vertical orientation. 
     SUMMARY 
     The difficulties and drawbacks associated with previous approaches are addressed in the present subject matter as follows. 
     In one aspect, the present subject matter provides a drain cleaner comprising a housing defining an interior hollow region. The drain cleaner also comprises a rotatable drum disposed in the interior hollow region defined by the housing. The drum is rotatable about an axis of rotation. The drain cleaner also comprises an electric motor secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum. The drain cleaner also comprises a counterweight secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum. 
     In another aspect, the present subject matter provides a drain cleaner comprising a housing defining an interior hollow region. The drain cleaner also comprises a rotatable drum disposed in the interior hollow region defined by the housing. The drum is rotatable about an axis of rotation. The drain cleaner also comprises an electric motor secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum. The drain cleaner also comprises a cable clamp secured to the drum and rotatable with the drum. The cable clamp defines (i) a recessed cable passage region along an underside of the cable clamp and (ii) at least one heat transfer fin along an exterior of the cable clamp. 
     In yet another aspect, the present subject matter provides a drain cleaner comprising a housing defining an hollow interior region; a drum defining an interior surface and a channel in which a cable and sheath are disposed, wherein the drum is disposed in the housing and rotatable about a horizontally disposed axis; a motor removably secured to the interior surface of the drum at a first location; a gearbox removably secured to the interior surface of the drum at a second location spaced from the first location; and a counterweight secured to or formed along the interior surface of the drum at a third location spaced from the first and second locations. The motor or the gearbox or both the drum and the gearbox are located radially outwardly from the axis of rotation of the drum. The improvement comprises the third location being spaced from the axis of rotation so that the drum is balanced. 
     As will be realized, the subject matter described herein is capable of other and different embodiments and its several details are capable of modifications in various respects, all without departing from the claimed subject matter. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative and not restrictive. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective schematic view of an embodiment of a drain cleaner with a cover removed in association with an optional cart, in accordance with the present subject matter. 
         FIG. 2  is an elevational view of the drain cleaner of  FIG. 1  with its cover attached. 
         FIG. 3  is another elevational view of the drain cleaner of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 4  is a cross sectional view of the drain cleaner taken across line IV-IV in  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 5  is another elevational view of the drain cleaner of  FIG. 1  with its cover removed and illustrating additional details. 
         FIGS. 6A-6J  are exploded assembly views of the drain cleaner and cart of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 7  is a detailed exploded assembly view of an outer drum and associated components. 
         FIG. 8  is another detailed exploded assembly view of the outer drum, an inner drum, and associated components. 
         FIG. 9  is another detailed exploded assembly view of a drum housing and associated components. 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a counterweight used in certain versions of the drain cleaners of the present subject matter. 
         FIG. 11  is another perspective schematic view of the drain cleaner and cart of  FIG. 1  illustrating the counterweight and a motor. 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a cable clamp used in certain versions of the drain cleaners of the present subject matter. 
         FIG. 13  is another perspective schematic view of the drain cleaner and cart of  FIG. 1  illustrating the cable clamp and motor. 
         FIG. 14  is a cross sectional view of the drain cleaner taken across line IV-IV in  FIG. 2  illustrating various components assembled within the interior of the drain cleaner. 
         FIG. 15  is a partial sectional view of the drain cleaner of  FIG. 14  illustrating in greater detail various bearings used in the drain cleaner. 
         FIG. 16  is an exploded assembly view of a cord wrap system and support plates optionally utilized in the drain cleaners of the present subject matter. 
         FIG. 17  is a detailed perspective view of a component of the cord wrap system depicted in  FIG. 16 . 
         FIG. 18  is another detailed perspective view of the cord wrap component shown in  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of the drain cleaner including a plurality of gripping points. 
         FIG. 20  is a partial perspective view of the drain cleaner illustrating additional aspects. 
         FIG. 21  is a partial exploded assembly view of a primary drum support assembly illustrating additional aspects. 
         FIG. 22  illustrates an optional drain plug in a drum housing. 
         FIG. 23  illustrates another embodiment of a cable clamp. 
         FIGS. 24 and 25  illustrate an optional i-clutch system used in certain embodiments. 
         FIG. 26  is a view of another embodiment of a cable clamp. 
         FIG. 27  is a partial view of another embodiment of a cable clamp. 
         FIG. 28  is a schematic cross section of the cable clamp and related assembly depicted in  FIG. 26 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS 
     When cleaning drains, space is often limited. Large drain cleaning machines that must operate in a horizontal orientation, i.e., drum rotating around a vertical shaft, take up a significant amount of space. Also, for drain cleaning machines using an internal motor, the motor weight being in the drum presents issues for operation of the drain cleaner. For a vertically oriented drain cleaner, when the motor is located at the bottom of the drum rotation, the cable is very difficult to be pushed in or pulled out of the drain cleaner because the weight of the motor must be pulled up to the top of the drum rotation. Conversely, when the motor is located at the top of the drum rotation, cable can be forced out of the drum accidently or unintentionally when gravity causes the drum to rotate such that the motor is located at the bottom of the drum rotation. The present subject matter is directed to remedying these issues and enable a drain cleaner to be operated in a vertical orientation without these issues. 
     In many flex shaft type drain cleaners, the motor and typically also a gearbox, are secured to or located on the drum which rotates as cable is being pulled out. In accordance with the present subject matter, since the motor/gearbox is located off center, i.e., located radially outward from an axis of rotation of the drum, a counterweight is added on an opposite side of the drum to counter the weight of the motor/gearbox. The counterweight is sized, shaped, and/or positioned so that when the drum is rotated, and typically when the axis of rotation is in a horizontal orientation, the force required to pull cable from the drum is the same regardless of the rotational or angular position of the drum. Also, in certain embodiments, the motor is mounted to the drum on a small incline or at a relatively small angle to promote a match or transition between a gearbox shaft and the cable. This feature avoids abrupt bends in the cable which typically lead to subsequent losses of strength in the cable. These aspects are described in greater detail herein. 
     As described herein, the present subject matter is directed to drain cleaners and their operation utilizing flex shaft cable. Details of these drain cleaning machines, their operation, and flex shaft cable are provided in the noted parent application, U.S. Ser. No. 16/420,383 filed May 23, 2019, herein incorporated by reference. The term “flex shaft” cable as used herein refers to a flexible shaft or flexible cable which may optionally include a sheathing. However, it will be understood that the present subject matter is not limited to flex shaft type drain cleaners, and encompasses other types of equipment. Although drain cleaners are known in which a cable is coiled inside a housing of the drain cleaner and the cable is rotated about its axis by a motor, such as described in U.S. Pat. 7,367,077, a need remains for an improved powered drain cleaner. 
     Additional aspects of drain cleaners in accordance with the present subject matter include, but are not limited to, the following. 
     Drum and Housing Support 
     The drain cleaners of the present subject matter include a drum or drum assembly, a support, and a drum housing. The drum housing can include one or more optional wheels. The drum assembly is rotatable about an axis of rotation, is rotatably supported by the support, and is generally enclosed within the drum housing. In many embodiments, the support includes a plurality of feet that extend through the drum housing so that during operation and rotation of the drum assembly within the drum housing, the drum housing does not support the weight of the rotating drum assembly. Also, when the drain cleaner is in a vertical orientation, the feet lift the wheels off the ground to prevent the drain cleaner from unintended rolling. In many embodiments or applications, the drain cleaner is used in association with a wheeled cart. 
     Counterweight 
     As previously described, the drain cleaners of the present subject matter utilize one or more counterweights secured to the rotatable drum assembly. In many embodiments, a single counterweight is used and is configured so that it is relatively light weight and fits into the drum assembly. As will be understood, in order to reduce the weight of the counterweight, it is selectively located and secured to a location on the drum assembly such that the moment of inertia of the weight of the counterweight with respect to the axis of rotation of the rotating drum is equal to the moment of inertia of corresponding components, for example the motor/gearbox and cable clamp, described in greater detail herein. In many embodiments, the counterweight also extends in an arcuate manner in order to promote balancing the cable clamp mass and mass of other components as described in greater detail herein. 
     In a particular embodiment, the counterweight includes at least one portion that extends along an arcuate axis. The counterweight is typically secured to the rotatable drum such that the arcuate axis of the at least one portion of the counterweight is concentrically oriented about the axis of rotation of the drum. 
     As described herein, in certain embodiments of the drain cleaners of the present subject matter, the rotatable drum assembly does not exhibit any positional preference. That is, upon imparting rotational motion to the drum assembly and then removing or discontinuing the rotational power source, the drum freely rotates until stopping at a random rotational position, rather than a rotational position which is the result of uneven distribution of mass of the drum assembly about the axis of rotation of the drum. This characteristic is evident upon positioning the drain cleaner and drum assembly in a non-horizontal orientation and particularly evident when the drain cleaner and drum assembly are in a vertical orientation.  FIGS. 2-5  illustrate the drain cleaner and drum assembly in a vertical orientation.  FIGS. 14-15  illustrate the drain cleaner and drum assembly in a horizontal orientation. In many embodiments of the present subject matter, this characteristic is achieved by securing a configured counterweight to the drum assembly to counter balance any unequally distributed mass(es). In many embodiments, the counterweight is sized, shaped, and/or selectively located at a particular radial distance from the axis of rotation of the drum, to counter balance the drum assembly, i.e., the drum and other components secured thereto. 
     Cable Clamp 
     In many embodiments, the drain cleaners of the present subject matter include a cable clamp secured to the rotatable drum assembly. The cable clamp promotes easy coupling and decoupling between the gearbox and the cable. Further, once the cable is disconnected from the gearbox, the cable may be axially moved to disengage and remove from the drum assembly. In many versions, the cable clamp is configured to also function as a heat sink since portions of the cable in a bent or arcuate region typically located alongside or near the cable clamp, generate a relatively large amount of heat. Sight holes in the cable clamp enable viewing the location and condition of the sheath in the bent or arcuate region. 
     The drain cleaners of the present subject matter utilize at least one cable clamp to secure at least a portion of the flex shaft cable to the rotatable drum assembly. The cable clamp is typically secured to the drum assembly by a plurality of fasteners such as for example threaded fasteners. However, the present subject matter includes securing the cable clamp to the drum assembly by other means. The cable clamp generally defines a recessed cable passage region along its underside, and one or more heat transfer fins along its exterior regions. 
     In many embodiments, the cable clamp extends closer to an annular channel within the drum than the embodiment shown in the noted parent application, U.S. Ser. No. 16/420,383. In many embodiments, the cable clamp only contacts the cable sheathing at spaced apart arches along the cable while the drum surface is flat and sloped towards the base of the annular channel. In many embodiments, the arches extend further away from the cable so as to provide cooling fins or ribs for cooling the cable clamp and cable. In many embodiments, it is relatively easy to either replace the cable clamp or to utilize a differently sized cable clamp for different sized cable, for example a ⅜ inch vs. a ½ inch cable. 
     In certain embodiments of the drain cleaners of the present subject matter, the cable clamp includes at least one, and typically a plurality of heat transfer fins. Generally, the heat transfer fins are located along one or more exterior or peripheral regions of the cable clamp and serve to dissipate heat typically transmitted from the underside of the cable clamp, and often from flex shaft cable extending within a passage defined along the underside of the cable clamp. In order to further promote heat transfer from the cable clamp and its fins to the environment, the material of the cable clamp is selected to exhibit a relatively high thermal conductivity k of at least 10 W/m·k, preferably at least 50 W/m·k, and particularly at least 100 W/m·k. A non-limiting example of a preferred material for the cable clamp is aluminum or its alloys which typically exhibit a thermal conductivity of at least 50 W/m·k. However, it will be understood that the cable clamps of the present subject matter can be formed from a wide array of other materials. 
     Support Plates 
     In many embodiments, one or more support plates and typically a plurality of support plates are provided along an exterior region of the drum housing. The support plates typically increase rigidity of the drum housing and can also be used in place of nuts or other threaded fasteners to secure heavier or loaded components. 
     Since the drum housing is typically formed from plastic, the support plates distribute forces or other loads to prevent the plastic from fracturing or breaking during operation, or from impact or dropping of the unit. 
     In many versions, the support plates are formed from metal or other materials which exhibit relatively high strength and/or durability. This enables other components to be affixed to a stronger material than the plastic drum housing. 
     As described in greater detail herein, motor mount support plates and cable clamp support plates can be configured to match up with orientation pins/protrusions in the drum assembly and respective components can be secured to the drum assembly with threaded fastener(s), such as screws. In certain versions, the motor mount support plate includes threaded apertures for receiving threaded fasteners to secure the motor to the drum assembly. 
     Provisions for Using Multi-Sized Cables 
     The drain cleaners of the present subject matter can include provisions that facilitate the use of different sized flex shaft cables with the drain cleaner(s). These provisions include cable clamps which can be replaced with other cable clamps sized and configured for a particular flex shaft cable. These provisions also include spacer(s) or shim(s) that can be positioned between the motor or other components and the drum assembly for accommodating larger diameter cables. 
     Journal Bearings 
     The use of journal bearings with the drum assembly allow for the flex shaft type drain cleaner to operate in the vertical position. In many embodiments, there are two journal bearings that each include a shoulder for axial loading in addition to radial loads which they accommodate. Each journal bearing can be made of bronze, for example, or other acceptable material. In many embodiments, the journal bearings are mounted within a bearing housing that is mounted to the drum assembly. The bearing housing accepts a shaft attached to the housing. The shaft is secured within an annular protrusion with a retainer ring at the distal end of the shaft, and may also include a thrust washer captured between the journal bearing and the retainer ring. These aspects are described in greater detail herein. 
     Thrust Bearings 
     In many embodiments, a thrust bearing is positioned proximate a bearing housing near the center of the drum assembly and allows the flex shaft type drain cleaner to operate in a horizontal position. In many embodiments, the thrust bearing is removable and therefore, replaceable. The thrust bearing can be attached using threaded fasteners. In many embodiments, the thrust bearing rides against a thrust surface provided by the drum housing. These aspects are described in greater detail herein. 
     Telescoping Handle 
     In many embodiments, the cart associated with the drain cleaners includes a telescoping handle. In certain versions, the handle of the cart includes spring loaded pins that engage both a frame tube and a handle tube. The handle can also utilize a catch pin that engages if the pins are pulled passed the handle holes. These aspects are described in greater detail herein. 
     Drain Cleaner Embodiments 
       FIGS. 1-5  illustrate an embodiment of a drain cleaner  10  in accordance with the present subject matter. The drain cleaner  10  is shown in a vertical orientation with an optional cart  250 . The drain cleaner  10  is selectively attachable, detachable, and/or releasable from the cart  250 . The cart  250  includes at least one wheel and typically utilizes two or four wheels. The cart  250  could further include six wheels (not shown) wherein an additional pair of wheels could be attached to opposite sides of an outwardly projecting support  23 A ( FIG. 6I ). The drain cleaner  10  comprises a drum housing  20  and a housing cover  160 . According to the present disclosure, the drum housing  20  is generally cylindrical. And the housing cover  160  is secured to the drum housing  20  to thereby enclose a hollow interior region of the drum housing  20 .  FIGS. 1 and 5  illustrate the housing cover  160  removed to thereby reveal the interior region of the drum housing  20 .  FIGS. 2-4  show the housing cover  160  attached to the drum housing  20 . 
       FIGS. 6A-6J  are exploded assembly views of the drain cleaner  10 . Generally, the drain cleaner  10  comprises a drum housing  20  ( FIG. 6I ), and a rotatable drum assembly which includes an outer drum  80  ( FIG. 6C ) and an inner drum  100  ( FIG. 6B ). The drain cleaner  10  also comprises an electric motor  120  ( FIG. 6A ) secured to the drum assembly and particularly the inner drum  100 . In certain versions, the drain cleaner  10  additionally comprises a counterweight  180  ( FIG. 6B ) secured to the drum assembly and particularly the inner drum  100 . Furthermore, in certain versions the drain cleaner  10  also comprises a cable clamp  190  ( FIG. 6A ) secured to the drum assembly and particularly the inner drum  100 . Typically, the drain cleaner  10  comprises both the counterweight  180  and the cable clamp  190  secured to the drum assembly and particularly the inner drum  100 . 
     Referring further to  FIGS. 6B-6C , the drum assembly includes the outer drum  80  and the inner drum  100 . Typically, the outer drum  80  is cylindrically shaped, and the inner drum  100  is also cylindrically shaped. The inner drum  100  is concentrically positioned within the outer drum  80  and secured thereto, thereby creating an annular channel extending between the outer drum  80  and the inner drum  100 . The drum assembly, i.e., including the outer drum  80  and the inner drum  100 , is disposed within an interior hollow region defined by the drum housing  20  ( FIG. 6I ). In another aspect, the inner drum  100  could be integrally formed with the outer drum  80 . The drum housing  20  is also typically cylindrically shaped or generally so. However, in many versions, the drum housing  20  can include one or more strengthening ribs or regions at various locations. A housing cover  160  ( FIG. 6G ) is releasably attached to the drum housing  20 . 
     The drain cleaner  10  also comprises a primary drum support assembly  40  ( FIG. 6D ), a secondary drum support assembly  60  ( FIG. 6C ), and a thrust bearing  50  ( FIG. 6D ) disposed between the primary and secondary support assemblies  40 ,  60 . The secondary drum support assembly  60  is secured to the outer drum  80 . Typically, one or more fasteners  62  are used. The secondary drum support assembly  60  includes a central receiving member  64 , a plurality of outwardly extending leg members  66 , and a thrust plate  69 . The primary drum support assembly  40  includes a central support member or shaft  44 , a plurality of outwardly extending leg members  46 , a thrust support plate  49  and a thrust bearing plate  49 A. As will be further understood by reference to  FIGS. 6C and 6D , the central receiving member  64  of the secondary drum support assembly  60  is sized and shaped to receive the central support member or shaft  44  of the primary drum support assembly  40 . And the thrust bearing  50  defines a receiving aperture  52  sized to accommodate the central support member or shaft  44  of the primary drum support assembly  40 . Upon assembly of the components shown in  FIGS. 6C and 6D , the outer drum  80  is rotatably supported on or via the primary drum support assembly  40 . In certain versions, each of the leg members  46  of the primary drum support assembly  40  include a corresponding foot member  47  and optional shoe member  48 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 6A , the drain cleaner  10  additionally comprises a gearbox  130  in engagement with a rotary output  121  of the motor  120 .  FIG. 6A  illustrates a portion of a flex shaft drain cleaning cable  140  having a cleaning head  150  at a distal end  141  of the cable  140 . The flex shaft drain cleaning cable  140  also defines a proximal end  142  which is coupled to an output  132  of the gearbox  130 . The gearbox  130  and/or the motor  120  are secured to the drum assembly and particularly to the inner drum  100  by one or more mounting brackets  101 . As described in greater detail herein, a cable clamp  190  ( FIG. 6A ) is positioned over at least a region or portion of the flex shaft drain cleaning cable  140 . While the present disclosure describes a flex shaft drain cleaning cable, other types of drain cleaning cables could be utilized. In certain versions, an alternate coupling is used between the proximal end  142  of the flex shaft drain cleaning cable  140  and the output  132  of the gearbox  130 . This alternate coupling is longer in length than that depicted in  FIG. 6A . In such versions, the location of the motor  120  is changed to accommodate the alternate coupling. 
     The drain cleaner  10  may optionally comprise various controls and/or indicators collectively depicted as  170  in  FIG. 6E . Specifically, the controls and indicators  170  can include one or more selector switches  172  and electrical circuit breakers  174 . The controls and indicators  170  typically also include a faceplate  175  which is secured to the housing cover  160  ( FIG. 6G ). The drain cleaner  10  may also optionally include a foot operated switch  176  for governing operation of the drain cleaner  10 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6F and 6G , the drain cleaner  10  also comprises provisions for signal and/or power delivery between the housing cover  160  and the rotatable drum assembly and particularly the inner drum  100 . As will be understood, the housing cover  160  and the drum housing  20  are stationary and generally enclose the drum assembly and components attached thereto, i.e., the inner and outer drums  80 ,  100  and the motor  120 . These provisions depicted in  FIGS. 6F and 6G  include a ring and slip capsule assembly  210  and one or more harness assemblies  212 . One or more electronic controls and/or other accessories associated with the controls and indicators  170 , and/or the motor  120  can be included, generally depicted in  FIG. 6G  as components  214 . The drain cleaner  10  also comprises a power cord assembly  220  ( FIG. 6F ) having a plug  221 , an opposite proximal end  222  for connecting to the controls  170 , and/or the motor  120 . The power cord assembly  220  also includes one or more switches, ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI), and/or the components collectively referenced as item  225 . 
     Referring further to  FIGS. 6G-6I , the housing cover  160  is secured to the drum housing  20  by one or more fasteners  162 . Each fastener  162  is affixed to a capture region  22  defined along a periphery of the drum  20 . A latch  164  selectively secures the cable  140  and the cleaning head  150  against the housing cover  160 .  FIG. 6H  also depicts a portion of a handle or handle assembly  240  described in greater detail herein.  FIG. 6H  also illustrates a guide plate  125  to create a channel and protect electrical wires or hoses from the rotating outer and inner drums  80 ,  100  and allow passage between the guide plate 125  and the housing cover  160  of the drum housing  20 . 
     Referring further to  FIG. 6I , the drum housing  20  can additionally include one or more outwardly projecting supports  23 A,  23 B, and  23 C for example. The supports  23 A- 23 C are configured to support and stabilize the drum housing  20  when the drain cleaner  10  is operated in a vertical orientation, in which the drum assembly rotates about a horizontally oriented shaft or axis of rotation. One or more optional feet grommets  24  can be located along an underside of the support  23 A. One or more nameplates  25  or other indicia can be provided, typically secured to an external surface of the drum housing  20 . Supports  23 B,  23 C are secured to the cart  250  for providing additional support while in the vertical orientation. 
       FIG. 6J  also illustrates an optional cord wrap assembly  200  which can be located along an external region of the drum housing  20 .  FIG. 6J  also shows a plurality of support plates  230  described in greater detail herein.  FIG. 6J  also shows a portion of the previously noted handle assembly  240 . The cord wrap assembly  200  includes a plurality of cord wrap components  202 , described in greater detail herein.  FIG. 6J  also shows the optional cart  250  which can be used with the drain cleaner  10 . The cart  250  can include one or more engagement regions  252  for selective affixment with the drain cleaner  10  and in particular to the drum housing  20 . In certain versions, and as shown in  FIG. 6I , the drum housing  20  includes one or more mounting regions  23  for receiving and/or contacting an engagement region(s)  252  of the cart  250 . As previously noted, the cart  250  can include a telescoping handle assembly generally shown as item  254 . 
       FIG. 7  is a detailed exploded assembly view illustrating the previously described primary drum support assembly  40 , the thrust bearing  50 , the secondary drum support assembly  60 , and the outer drum  80 . The secondary drum support assembly  60  is secured to the outer drum  80 , typically via a plurality of fasteners  62 . In certain versions, the secondary drum support  60  includes at least one journal bearing  67  which as previously noted accommodates radial loads when the drain cleaner is operated in a vertical orientation. The journal bearing is typically disposed in the central receiving member  64 . The primary drum support  40  includes the central support member or shaft  44  about which the journal bearing  67  rotates. Disposed between the primary and secondary drum supports  40 ,  60  is the thrust bearing  50 . As previously noted, the thrust bearing  50  accommodates axial loads when the drain cleaner  10  is operated in a horizontal orientation. 
       FIG. 8  is a detailed exploded assembly view illustrating the previously described secondary drum support assembly  60 , the thrust bearing  50 , and the outer drum  80 , in association with the inner drum  100 , the counterweight  180 , the cable clamp  190 , the motor  120 , the gearbox  130 , the cable  140 , and a representative cleaning head  150 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , the counterweight  180 , the motor assembly  120 , the cable clamp  190 , and the gearbox  130 , are all secured to or otherwise mounted to the inner drum  100 , and particularly within an interior region of the inner drum  100 . Mounting of these components to a wall of the inner drum  100  is facilitated using the previously noted bracket  101  ( FIG. 6A ) and the motor mount support plate  231  ( FIG. 6B ). 
       FIG. 9  is another detailed exploded assembly view showing the drum housing  20 , the housing cover  160 , in association with portions of the handle assembly  240 .  FIG. 9  also illustrates the plurality of support plates  230 , and the cord wrap assembly  200 . Typically, the housing cover  160  is sized and shaped to closely fit over and enclose a generally hollow interior region of the drum housing  20 . For versions in which the drum housing  20  is cylindrically shaped, the housing cover  160  is circular or substantially so. It will be understood that the present subject matter includes a wide array of other shapes and configurations for the drum housing  20  and/or the housing cover  160 . 
       FIG. 10  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the counterweight  180 .  FIG. 11  is a schematic illustration showing installation of the counterweight  180  within the inner drum  100  of the drain cleaner  10 . As previously noted, in certain versions the counterweight  180  includes at least a portion of the counterweight that extends along an arcuate axis of the counterweight. That portion is depicted in  FIG. 10  as portion  182 . Configuring the counterweight in this manner and orienting the counterweight with respect to the drum assembly such that the arcuate axis of the counterweight or its portion is concentrically oriented about the axis of rotation of the drum assembly serves to stabilize the rotating drum assembly during vertical operation of the drain cleaner  10 . This aspect is illustrated in  FIG. 11  in which an arcuate axis of the counterweight shown as axis A is concentrically oriented about the axis of the drum assembly, shown as axis B. The counterweight  180  also defines one or more apertures  184  for receiving a fastener or other member to thereby secure the counterweight  180  to the drum assembly and particularly the inner drum  100 . It will be understood that the present subject matter includes a wide array of different shapes, geometries, and configurations for the counterweight and is not limited to the particular embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 10 . 
       FIG. 11  also illustrates the drain cleaner  10  and the cart  250  in which the housing cover  160  has been removed from the drain cleaner  10  to reveal an interior hollow region within the drum assembly.  FIG. 11  shows a typical mounting arrangement for the motor  120  and the counterweight  180 . As previously described, the counterweight  180  is located generally opposite from the motor  120  and gearbox  130  (not shown) so as to counter balance those components and other components associated with the drum assembly, with respect to rotation about axis B. 
     In many embodiments, and as described herein, the counterweight such as counterweight  180 , is removably secured to the drum. However, the present subject matter also includes embodiments in which the counterweight is not removably secured to the drum. For example, the counterweight could be permanently affixed or secured to the drum. The counterweight could also be integrally formed with the drum or components of the drum. For example, the counterweight could be incorporated into a cast drum support. 
       FIG. 12  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the cable clamp  190 . The cable clamp  190  defines a cable channel  192  extending along an underside of the cable clamp  190 . The cable clamp  190  also includes a plurality of heat transfer fins  194  along exterior region(s) of the cable clamp  190 . One or more fasteners are typically used to secure the cable clamp  190  to the drum assembly, and particularly to the inner drum  100  as shown in  FIG. 13 . Additionally, the fasteners securing the cable clamp  190  to the inner drum  100  may also pass through a cable clamp support plate  232  ( FIG. 6B ). As previously noted, the cable clamps  190  are typically replaceable and can be easily removed from the inner drum  100  so that a cable clamp differing in size, shape, configuration, or some other aspect, can be used. 
       FIG. 13  illustrates the drain cleaner  10  and the cart  250  in which the housing cover  160  has been removed from the drain cleaner  10  to reveal an interior hollow region within the drum assembly.  FIG. 13  shows a typical mounting arrangement for the motor  120 , the counterweight  180 , and the cable clamp  190 .  FIG. 13  also illustrates a portion of the flex shaft cable  140 . As will be understood, the cable clamp  190  is positioned over the cable  140  such that the cable  140  is disposed in the cable channel  192 . The cable clamp  190  is secured to a wall of the inner drum  100 . 
     In many embodiments, the drain cleaners  10  include both of the counterweight  180  and the cable clamp  190 . However, the present subject matter includes drain cleaners free of either the counterweight  180  or the cable clamp  190 . Furthermore, it is also preferred that the drain cleaners of the present subject matter include a rotatable drum that is free of exhibiting any positional preference. 
     As previously noted, the drain cleaners of the present subject matter can be operated in a horizontal orientation such as depicted in  FIG. 14 .  FIG. 14  is a cross sectional view of the drain cleaner  10  and the cart  250  illustrating various components assembled within the drain cleaner  10 . Specifically, the inner drum  100  is positioned within the outer drum  80 . The motor  120  and gearbox  130  are secured to the inner drum  100 . The drums  80 ,  100  and various components secured thereto are disposed within the drum housing  20  and enclosed within the drum housing  20  by the housing cover  160 . As previously noted, in certain versions, the motor  120  is mounted to the inner drum  100  at a relatively small angle, to promote transition between the gearbox  130  and the cable  140  (not shown). Referring to  FIG. 14 , this angle is measured from a back plane C of the inner drum  100  to the axis of rotation of the motor  120 . Typically, this angle is within a range of 1° to 20°, more preferably, the angle is within a range of 12° to 18°.  FIG. 14  also illustrates a feature promoting operation of the drain cleaner  10  in a horizontal orientation. Specifically, in certain versions the primary drum support assembly  40  includes a plurality of the noted foot members  47  and shoe members  48 . The foot members  47  extend transversely from the leg members  46 . The foot members  47  are configured to extend from the drain cleaner  10  a distance that is greater than the maximum distance of other components of the drain cleaner  10  or the cart  250 . This enables the drain cleaner  10  and its foot members  47  (and shoe members  48  if used) to contact a floor or ground surface shown as G in  FIG. 14 , and elevate all other components of the drain cleaner  10  and the cart  250  when the drain cleaner  10  is in a horizontal orientation. 
       FIG. 15  is a detailed view of a portion of the sectional view of  FIG. 14  showing in greater detail the previously noted journal bearings  67  and thrust bearing  50  used in the drain cleaner  10 . Specifically, the receiving region  64  of the secondary drum support assembly  60  encloses and/or retains journal bearings  67  which extend about the shaft  44  of the primary drum support assembly  40 . The journal bearings  67  are positioned between the shaft  44  and the receiving region  64 . The thrust bearing  50  is also positioned between the thrust plate  69  of the secondary drum support assembly  60  and the thrust bearing plate  49 A of the primary drum support assembly  40 . Thrust bearing plate  49 A has a smooth finish to reduce friction between the thrust bearing plate  49 A and thrust bearing  50 . As will be understood, the assembly rotates about axis of rotation B.  FIG. 15  also depicts outwardly extending leg members  46  of the primary drum support assembly  40 . 
       FIG. 16  is an exploded assembly view of the optional cord wrap system  200  used in the drain cleaner  10 . The cord wrap  200  includes a plurality of cord wrap components  202  and springs  205  for receiving and retaining an electrical power cord such as the noted power cord assembly  220  ( FIG. 6F ) for delivering electrical power to the drain cleaner  10  and to its motor  120 . Each cord wrap component  202  is preferably affixed to one or more of the previously noted support plates  230  through an aperture  206 . Each cord wrap component  202  may include a mounting projection  207  having a square shape which mates with the shape of aperture  206 , thereby allowing each cord wrap component to be in four (4) different orientations 90° apart from each orientation. Each cord wrap component  202  may also include a radial projection  203  for securing the power cord assembly. Fasteners  208  may engage with springs  205  to allow for the respective cord wrap component to be biased towards the drum housing  20 . As will be understood, the cord wrap components  202  are located along an exterior region of the drum housing  20  and spaced apart to promote winding of a power cord about the collection of components  202 . The cord wrap system  200  and/or the cord wrap components  202  can also be configured to be used with and/or manage the foot bulb hose  176 . The spring biased feature of the cord wrap components enable for quick “dumping” of the cords by lifting and rotating the cord wrap projection  203  and then pulling the cords over a relatively smooth outer edge opposite the lip. 
       FIGS. 17 and 18  are detailed views of a typical cord wrap component  202 . Specifically, each cord wrap component  202  includes an outwardly extending arm  203 . Each cord wrap component  202  can also include one or more apertures  204  for receiving a fastener  208  for affixing the cord wrap component  202  to the drum housing  20 , and more particularly to a support plate  230 . 
       FIG. 19  is a perspective view of the drain cleaner  10  having a plurality of gripping points or locations. The previously noted outwardly projecting supports  23 A- 23 C are depicted with the handle assembly  240  mounted to one of the supports, typically a support farthest from the location of the cart  250 , i.e., support  23 A. Cart  250  includes an additional gripping point with a cross-bar  251 . 
       FIG. 20  is a partial perspective view of the drain cleaner  10  illustrating additional aspects. Specifically, the plurality of cord wrap components  202  affixed to support plates  230  extending along the drum housing  20  are depicted. The drum housing  20  encloses the rotatable drum assembly (not shown) which is rotatable about axis B. The drain cleaner  10  is shown with the cart  250 . 
       FIG. 21  illustrates additional aspects of the primary drum support assembly  40  depicted in  FIGS. 6D and 7 . The primary drum support assembly  40  may in certain versions include one or more brackets  300 . The bracket(s)  300  provide increased stiffness to the assembly  40 . Each bracket  300  is configured to engage with a corresponding shoe member  48 , and can be affixed or otherwise secured to a leg member  46  and/or a foot member  47  of the primary drum support assembly  40 . 
       FIG. 22  illustrates an optional drain plug  305  incorporated in the drum housing  20 . The drain plug  305  allows for liquid within the interior of the housing  20  to be drained therefrom in a controlled manner. Although the present subject matter includes a wide array of drain plugs and drain assemblies for the drum housing  20 ,  FIG. 22  illustrates a typical form or configuration for the drain plug  305 . Specifically, the drain plug  305  includes a retention member  308  and a sealing member  310 . The housing  20  defines a drain aperture  312 , and in the version depicted in  FIG. 22 , a retention aperture  314 . The sealing member  310  and the drain aperture  312  are sized and/or shaped to sealingly engage together and prevent flow of liquid through the aperture  312  upon insertion of the member  310  in the aperture  312 . The drain plug  305  is attached to the housing  20  by insertion of the retention member  308  in the retention aperture  314 . The member  308  is frictionally secured and retained in the aperture  314 . The present subject matter includes a wide array of other configurations. 
       FIG. 23  illustrates an alternate version  320  of the cable clamp  190  shown in  FIGS. 6A and 12 . The cable clamp  320  depicted in  FIG. 23  defines a cable channel  322  extending along an underside of the cable clamp  320 . The cable clamp  320  also includes a plurality of heat transfer fins  324  along exterior region(s) of the cable clamp  320 . One or more fasteners  326  are typically used to secure the cable clamp  320  to the drum assembly, and particularly to the inner drum  100  as shown in  FIG. 23 . Additionally, the fasteners  326  securing the cable clamp  320  to the inner drum  100  may also pass through a cable clamp support plate (not shown in  FIG. 23 ). The cable clamp  320  is typically replaceable and can be easily removed from the inner drum  100  so that a cable clamp differing in size, shape, configuration, or some other aspect, can be used.  FIG. 23  also illustrates a flex shaft drain cleaning cable  140  disposed within the cable channel  322 . The cable clamp  320  includes an arcuate projection member  330  extending from a main body of the cable clamp  320 . The projection member  330  extends the cable channel  322 . As shown in  FIG. 23 , the projection member  330  is arcuate in shape and is configured to provide additional support to the cable  140  disposed in the cable channel  322 . 
     In certain embodiments, one or both of the electrical circuit breakers  174  depicted in  FIG. 6E  are replaced by an i-clutch system which thus serves to function as the electrical circuit breaker(s). Referring to  FIG. 25 , an i-clutch system  340  is shown. Referring to  FIG. 24 , an LED  342  or other similar indicator is mounted on the faceplate  175  which is secured to the housing cover  160 , depicted in  FIG. 6G .  FIG. 24  illustrates the assembly shown in  FIG. 6E  without the circuit breakers  174 . The LED  342  provides indication to a user when the i-clutch has been activated. The i-clutch system  340  generally comprises several components such as the following. An electronics assembly  344  which may be a printed circuit board (PCB), controls a soft start module  346  and cuts or otherwise disconnects electrical power to the motor (such as motor  120  in  FIG. 6A ) when electrical current exceeds a set threshold or other predetermined value. A suppressor  348  is utilized to reduce electrical noise and one or more heat sink(s)  350  can be used to reduce excessive heat from the electronics and surrounding assembly.  FIG. 24  illustrates the one or more selector switches  172  from the assembly depicted in  FIG. 6E . 
       FIG. 26  illustrates another embodiment of a cable clamp designated as cable clamp  420 . The cable clamp  420  depicted in  FIG. 26  defines a cable channel  422  extending along an underside of the cable clamp  420 . The cable clamp  420  also includes a plurality of heat transfer fins  424  along exterior region(s) of the cable clamp  420 . One or more fasteners  426  are typically used to secure the cable clamp  420  to the drum assembly, and particularly to the inner drum  100  as shown in  FIG. 23 . Additionally, the fasteners  426  securing the cable clamp  420  to the inner drum  100  may also pass through a cable clamp support plate (not shown in  FIG. 26 ). The cable clamp  420  is typically replaceable and can be easily removed from the inner drum  100  so that a cable clamp differing in size, shape, configuration, or some other aspect, can be used.  FIG. 26  also illustrates a flex shaft drain cleaning cable  140  disposed within the cable channel  422 . The cable clamp  420  defines one or more threaded apertures  452  that provide access to the flex shaft drain cleaning cable  140  disposed within the cable channel  422 . One or more interference fasteners  450  and preferably threaded fasteners configured to matingly engage the apertures  452 , are positioned in the corresponding apertures  452 . The fasteners  450  are positioned to contact or otherwise engage the outer sheath of the cable  140 . This configuration provides interference with the stationary outer sheath of the cable  140 . The fasteners  450  prevent or at least significantly reduce the potential for movement of the sheath within the cable channel  422  when excessive torque is applied which can occur particularly at elevated temperatures. 
     A wide array of fasteners and other components can be used for fasteners  450 . Without being limited to any particular configuration, screws have been found to be suitable for use as fasteners  450 . In certain versions, the screws are machine screws such as M6×1.00 mm. In addition, cup point set screws have exhibit favorable performance. Additional end configurations for the fasteners include, but are not limited to, a knurled end and a pointed end. 
     Generally, the fasteners are configured to be removable. Such a configuration promotes ease in service and cable replacement. Typically, a cable is installed by selecting an appropriate cable and connecting a cable end to the gearbox. Next, the cable clamp (removed from the inner drum) is aligned and positioned over the cable. The cable is disposed in the noted cable channel defined along an underside of the cable clamp. For cable clamps having dimension or locating lines, the cable is positioned within these lines on the clamp. The clamp is then secured to its mounting surface by mounting components. Then, the interference fasteners such as fasteners  450  depicted in  FIG. 26 , are tightened to thereby urge the fasteners  450  into contact with the outer sheath of the cable  140 . 
       FIG. 27  is a perspective view of a portion of another embodiment of a cable clamp  520 . This figure depicts an arcuate projection member  530  extending from a main body of the cable clamp  520 . The projection member  530  extends a cable channel  522  defined along an underside of the cable clamp  520 , similar to previously described projection member  330  depicted in  FIG. 23 . The projection member  530  includes one or more ribs  560  that contact the drum to distribute reaction torque from the cable  140  between the drum and mounting screws (not shown). In many versions, the ribs  560  serve to transfer load and forces into the drum wall rather than all of the reaction torque being applied to the mounting components. This in turn reduces the potential for mounting components from becoming loose over time and also reduces the potential for drum fatigue under the cable clamp. 
       FIG. 28  is a schematic cross section taken in the assembly depicted in  FIG. 26 , extending through a center of the fasteners  450  and the cable  140 . As will be understood, the cross section is taken perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the inner portion of the cable  140 . 
     In another embodiment, the present subject matter provides a drain cleaner comprising a housing defining an hollow interior region; a drum defining an interior surface and a channel in which a cable and sheath may be disposed, wherein the drum is disposed in the housing and rotatable about a horizontally disposed axis; a motor removably secured to the interior surface of the drum at a first location; a gearbox removably secured to the interior surface of the drum at a second location spaced from the first location; and a counterweight removably secured to the interior surface of the drum at a third location spaced from the first and second locations. The motor or the gearbox or both the drum and the gearbox are located radially outwardly from the axis of rotation of the drum. The improvement comprises the third location being spaced from the axis of rotation so that the drum is balanced. In particular versions, the improvement comprises the third location being spaced from the axis of rotation so that the drum is balanced when rotating at a first predetermined number of rotations per unit time. 
     In certain versions, the counterweight is configured so that, when the drum is rotating at a second predetermined number of rotations per unit time different from the first predetermined number of rotations per unit time, the drum remains dynamically balanced. 
     Generally, during operation of the drain cleaner, the rotational rate of the drum is constant or substantially so, for example within ±20% of a rotational rate during extending of a drain cleaning cable or flex shaft; or during withdrawal of a drain cleaning cable or flex shaft (excluding start and end phases). However, the present subject matter includes use or operation of the drain cleaner when extending or withdrawing of drain cleaning cable or flex shaft occurs in a non-constant or variable manner. In such instances, the rotation rate of the drum will be non-constant. In many versions, the improvements described herein still result in the drum being balanced. 
     In certain versions, the drain cleaner further comprises a cable clamp rotatable with the drum and removably secured to the inner surface of the drum at a fourth location. In particular versions, the cable clamp defines a recessed cable passage region along an underside of the cable clamp. In still further versions, the cable clamp further defines at least one heat transfer fin extending along and outwardly from an exterior surface region of the cable clamp. 
     The present subject matter provides a wide array of features and benefits. Advantages include smooth operation of the drum rotation. 
     A variety of alternative embodiments are contemplated such as the following. When loading the drain cleaner into a vehicle, another gripping point is needed on the lower front end of the drain cleaner. This handle has two gripping points to make it easier to grab and load the unit. This handle can also be used when negotiating a curb or step. 
     Many other benefits will no doubt become apparent from future application and development of this technology. 
     All patents, applications, standards, and articles noted herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
     The present subject matter includes all operable combinations of features and aspects described herein. Thus, for example if one feature is described in association with an embodiment and another feature is described in association with another embodiment, it will be understood that the present subject matter includes embodiments having a combination of these features. 
     As described hereinabove, the present subject matter solves many problems associated with previous strategies, systems and/or devices. However, it will be appreciated that various changes in the details, materials and arrangements of components, which have been herein described and illustrated in order to explain the nature of the present subject matter, may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the principle and scope of the claimed subject matter, as expressed in the appended claims.