Patent Description:
<CIT> discloses a fish tape assembly according to the preamble of claim <NUM> and a method of setting a torque level of a motor of a fish tape tool according to the preamble of claim <NUM>.

According to its abstract and description <CIT> relates to a powered fish tape reel system for efficiently pushing and drawing fish tape within an elongate tubular structure. The powered fish tape reel system includes a hub member for receiving and dispensing a length of fish tape, a first cover and a second cover surrounding the hub member, and a motor unit mechanically connected to the hub member for rotating the hub member in a desired direction at a desired rotational speed.

<CIT> also discloses a fish tape assembly according to the preamble of claim <NUM>.

The present invention provides, in one aspect, a fish tape assembly comprising a fish tape tool including a housing, a chamber defined in the housing and a motor supported by the housing. The fish tape assembly further comprises a fish tape drum configured to be inserted into the chamber of the housing. The fish tape drum contains a fish tape and includes a rotatable drum portion configured to rotate in response to receiving torque from the motor. The fish tape tool includes a sensor configured to detect which type of fish tape is in the fish tape drum inserted into the chamber of the housing. The fish tape tool is configured to set a torque level of the motor, to rotate the fish tape drum, based on the type of fish tape detected by the sensor.

The present invention provides, in another aspect, a method of setting a torque level of a motor of a fish tape tool, such that the motor can rotate a fish tape drum. The method comprises inserting the fish tape drum into the fish tape tool, and detecting, with a sensor on the fish tape tool, a type of fish tape in the fish tape drum. The method further comprises, in response to detecting the type of fish tape in the fish tape drum, setting the torque level of the motor, and rotating the fish tape drum with the motor at the set torque level.

Also provided is a fish tape drum comprising a frame and a drum portion rotatable relative to the frame. The drum portion has an outer wall and an inner wall. The fish tape drum further comprises a length of fish tape arranged between the inner and outer walls, and a constricting assembly configured to bias the length of fish tape toward the inner wall.

Also provided is a fish tape drum comprising a frame including a lead channel and an exit. The lead channel leads to the exit. The fish tape drum further comprises a drum portion rotatable relative to the frame. The drum portion has a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and a circumferential wall extending between the first and second sidewalls. The drum portion further comprises a length of fish tape arranged between the first and second sidewalls. The length of fish tape is configured to be dispensed from the drum portion through the lead channel and the exit. A central plane is defined at a location that is equidistant from the first and second sidewalls. The lead channel is offset from central plane.

Also provided is a fish tape drum comprising a frame and a drum portion rotatable relative to the frame. The drum portion has an outer wall. The fish tape drum further comprises a length of fish tape having an anchor end, an opposite moving end configured to move relative to the drum as the drum rotates relative to the frame, and an intermediate portion in between the anchor end and the moving end. The fish tape drum further comprises a pushing member biased toward the outer wall. The pushing member is configured to push the intermediate portion of fish tape toward the outer wall.

Also provided is a fish tape drum comprising a frame and a drum portion rotatable relative to the frame. The drum portion has an outer wall, an inner wall, and a slot arranged between the outer and inner walls. The fish tape drum further comprises an anchor member moveable within the slot between the outer and inner walls, and a length of fish tape having an anchor end secured to the anchor member and an opposite moving end configured to move relative to the drum as the drum rotates relative to the frame.

Also provided is a fish tape assembly comprising a fish tape tool including a housing, a chamber defined in the housing and a motor supported by the housing. The fish tape assembly further comprises a fish tape drum configured to be inserted into the chamber of the housing. The fish tape drum includes a frame configured to engage with the housing of the fish tape tool and a drum portion configured to receive torque from the motor of the fish tape tool. The drum portion is rotatable relative to the frame. The drum portion has an outer wall, an inner wall, and a slot arranged between the outer and inner walls. The fish tape drum further comprises an anchor member moveable within the slot between the outer and inner walls, and a length of fish tape having an anchor end secured to the anchor member and an opposite moving end configured to move relative to the drum as the drum rotates relative to the frame.

As shown in <FIG>, a fish tape assembly includes a fish tape tool <NUM> having a housing <NUM>, a motor <NUM> (<FIG>) for driving an output reel <NUM> (<FIG>), and a selectively removable and rechargeable battery <NUM> for powering the motor <NUM>. The fish tape tool <NUM> receives a fish tape drum <NUM> (<FIG>) that contains a length of fish tape <NUM> having a moving end <NUM> extending out of the fish tape drum <NUM> and the fish tape tool <NUM>. As explained further below, when the fish tape drum <NUM> is received in the fish tape tool <NUM>, the output reel <NUM> can rotate to move the moving end <NUM> out of or into the housing <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the housing <NUM> includes a base <NUM> and a door <NUM> having an inner edge <NUM> defining an aperture <NUM>. The door <NUM> is pivotably coupled to the base <NUM> via a hinge joint <NUM>. An interior chamber <NUM> is defined within the housing <NUM>. The door <NUM> moves with respect to the base <NUM> between a closed position (<FIG>), in which the interior chamber <NUM> is not accessible, and an open position, in which the interior chamber <NUM> is accessible. The open position is shown in <FIG>, with the door <NUM> removed for clarity, and in <FIG>. A latch <NUM> on the base <NUM> is slideable between a locked position, in which the door <NUM> is locked in the closed position, and an unlocked position, in which the door <NUM> may be pivoted to the open position.

With continued reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the housing <NUM> includes a handle <NUM> coupled to the base <NUM>. The handle <NUM> includes a trigger <NUM> for actuating the motor <NUM> and a directional shuttle <NUM> that can slide between a dispensing position and a retracting position. In the dispensing position, the motor <NUM> and the output reel <NUM> rotate in a dispensing direction, such that the fish tape <NUM> is dispensed from the fish tape drum <NUM> (and tool <NUM>). In the retracting position, the motor <NUM> and the output reel <NUM> rotate in a retracting direction that is opposite the dispensing direction, such that the fish tape <NUM> is retracted into the fish tape drum <NUM> (and tool <NUM>). The handle <NUM> includes a light <NUM>, such as an LED, that is illuminated when the trigger is depressed <NUM> to actuate the motor <NUM>.

The fish tape tool <NUM> also includes a controller <NUM> for variably controlling the speed of the motor <NUM>, and thus the speed at which the fish tape <NUM> is dispensed or retracted. In some embodiments, the controller varies the speed of the motor <NUM> in response to a degree of depression of the trigger. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> varies the speed of the motor <NUM> based on pulse width modulation. In some embodiments, the fish tape tool <NUM> includes a potentiometer to vary the speed of the motor <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the base <NUM> includes a channel <NUM> leading from the interior chamber <NUM> to an exit <NUM> out of the housing <NUM>. The channel <NUM> includes a hall effect sensor <NUM>, whose function will be described later herein. The base <NUM> also includes radially inward-extending ribs <NUM>. With continued reference to <FIG>, the output reel <NUM> includes radially outward-extending legs <NUM> and a keyway recess <NUM>. As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the fish tape tool <NUM> includes a transmission <NUM> for transferring torque from the motor <NUM> to the output reel <NUM>. The transmission <NUM> terminates in a drive key <NUM> arranged in the keyway recess <NUM>, such that the output reel <NUM> can receive torque from the transmission <NUM>, and thus rotate relative to the base <NUM>. In some embodiments the transmission <NUM> includes a clutch mechanism. As explained in further detail below, the clutch mechanism is used to disconnect the output reel <NUM> from the transmission <NUM>, such that torque cannot be transferred from the output reel <NUM> to the transmission <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, <FIG>, the fish tape tool <NUM> includes a crank hub <NUM> including an outer shelf <NUM>, an inner shelf <NUM>, and a pair of detent members <NUM> between the outer and inner shelves <NUM>, <NUM>. The detent members <NUM> each include a radially outward-extending lip <NUM> and an axially extending tab <NUM>. The detent members <NUM> are moveable between radially inward and outward positions, as explained in further detail below.

The outer shelf <NUM> includes a lever <NUM> moveable between an extended position shown in <FIG> and a collapsed position shown in <FIG>. The lever <NUM> includes a detent <NUM> that is receivable in a recess <NUM> extending through the outer and inner shelves <NUM>, <NUM>, such that when the lever <NUM> is moved to the collapsed position of <FIG>, the lever <NUM> is locked against the crank hub <NUM> unless an operator pulls the detent <NUM> out of the recess <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the inner shelf <NUM> includes radially outward-extending legs <NUM> in which radially outward-extending recesses <NUM> are defined on each leg <NUM>. Thus, the crank hub <NUM> may be engaged for rotation with the output reel <NUM> by setting the legs <NUM> of the output reel <NUM> within the recesses <NUM> of the crank hub <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the fish tape drum <NUM> includes a drum portion <NUM> including first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM>. The drum portion <NUM> retains the length of fish tape <NUM> and defines radially outward-extending recesses <NUM> at an inner diameter <NUM> thereof. A frame <NUM> is arranged between the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM> and defines an exit <NUM> for the fish tape <NUM>. The frame <NUM> also defines radially inward-extending recesses <NUM> at an outer edge <NUM> thereof. As explained in further detail below, the drum portion <NUM> is rotatable relative to the frame <NUM>.

This fish tape <NUM> includes an anchor end that is opposite of the moving end <NUM>. The anchor end of the fish tape <NUM> is anchored within the drum portion <NUM> of the fish tape drum <NUM>. In some embodiments, the anchor end of the fish tape <NUM> is anchored within the fish tape drum <NUM> at the inner diameter <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM> by a screw boss. Proximate the anchor end, the length of fish tape <NUM> includes a detectable element, such as a magnet that is detectable by the hall effect sensor <NUM> in the channel <NUM>. Thus, during a dispensing operation, when a predetermined amount of fish tape <NUM> has been dispensed out from the fish tape tool <NUM>, the magnet passes by the hall effect sensor <NUM>, which sends a signal to the controller <NUM>. In response to the signal, the controller <NUM> determines that the predetermined amount of fish tape <NUM> has been dispensed out of the fish tape tool, and alerts the operator, e.g. via a different color or flashing pattern from the light <NUM>, that the predetermined amount of fish tape <NUM> has been dispensed.

To install the fish tape drum <NUM> in the fish tape tool <NUM>, an operator slides the latch <NUM> to the unlocked position and then pivots the door <NUM> to the open position, as shown in <FIG>. The operator then inserts the fish tape drum <NUM> into the interior chamber <NUM>, aligning the exit <NUM> of the frame <NUM> with the channel <NUM> of the base <NUM> and the ribs <NUM> with the recesses <NUM> of the frame <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Thus, the frame <NUM> of the fish tape drum <NUM> is prevented from rotating with respect to the base <NUM>. The operator then positions the fish tape <NUM> in the channel <NUM> and arranges the moving end <NUM> outside of the exit <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The operator then closes the door <NUM> and moves the latch <NUM> to the locked position, thereby securing the fish tape drum <NUM> within the internal chamber <NUM> of the housing <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the operator may now operate the fish tape tool <NUM> to dispense fish tape <NUM> from the housing <NUM> without insertion of the crank hub <NUM>, because the legs <NUM> of the output reel <NUM> are positioned within the recesses <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM> of the fish tape drum <NUM>. However, the subsequent operation described below will include insertion of the crank hub <NUM> into the housing <NUM> and operation therewith.

To insert the crank hub <NUM> into the housing <NUM>, the operator pushes the tabs <NUM> of the detent members <NUM> of the crank member <NUM> radially inward, causing the detent members <NUM> to be held in a radially inward position (<FIG>). The crank hub <NUM> may then be inserted through the aperture <NUM> of the door <NUM>, in an alignment whereby the legs <NUM> of the reel output <NUM> are arranged in the recesses <NUM> of inner shelf <NUM> of the crank hub <NUM>, and the legs <NUM> of the inner shelf <NUM> are received in the recesses <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>. Thus, the crank hub <NUM> is locked for rotation with the output reel <NUM> and the drum portion <NUM> is locked for rotation with the crank hub <NUM>. Once the crank hub <NUM> has been inserted, the operator moves the tabs <NUM> outward, causing the detent members <NUM> to move to a radially outward position, such that the lips <NUM> are captured underneath the edge <NUM> of the door <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Thus, the crank hub <NUM> is axially locked with respect to the housing <NUM>, and now prevented from slipping out of the aperture <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG>, the drum portion <NUM> is rotatable relative to the frame <NUM> by virtue of an inner edge <NUM> of the frame <NUM> being positioned within a channel <NUM> defined between the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>. The length of fish tape <NUM> stored in the drum portion <NUM> has been omitted from <FIG> for clarity.

With the fish tape drum <NUM> and the crank hub <NUM> secured in the housing <NUM>, the operator may now operate the fish tape tool <NUM>. The operator slides the shuttle <NUM> to the dispensing position and depresses the trigger <NUM>, thereby actuating the motor <NUM>. The transmission <NUM> transmits torque from the motor <NUM> to the reel output <NUM> via the drive key <NUM> in the keyway recess <NUM>. Because the legs <NUM> of the output reel <NUM> are arranged in the recesses <NUM> of the crank hub <NUM>, and the legs <NUM> of the crank hub <NUM> are received in the recesses <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>, the crank hub <NUM> transmits rotation from the output reel <NUM> to the drum portion <NUM>. As the drum portion <NUM> of the fish tape drum <NUM> rotates, the moving end <NUM> of the fish tape <NUM> is forced to move away from tool <NUM> and through, e.g., a conduit or wall.

As described above, if the operator completely depresses the trigger <NUM>, the controller <NUM> causes the motor <NUM>, and thus the fish tape <NUM>, to move at a first, maximum speed. If the operator partially depresses the trigger <NUM>, the controller <NUM> causes the motor <NUM>, and thus the fish tape <NUM>, to move a second speed that is slower than the first speed. While the operator is depressing the trigger <NUM> and the fish tape <NUM> is being dispensed, the light <NUM> is illuminated to indicate to the operator that fish tape is being dispensed. When the predetermined amount of fish tape <NUM> has been dispensed out from the fish tape tool <NUM>, the magnet on the fish tape <NUM> passes by the hall effect sensor <NUM>, which sends a signal to the controller <NUM>. In response to the signal, the controller <NUM> alerts, e.g. via the light <NUM>, the operator that the predetermined amount of fish tape <NUM> has been dispensed. With this notification, the operator releases the trigger <NUM>, thus stopping the motor <NUM>.

In order to retract the fish tape <NUM> back into the tool <NUM> and fish tape drum <NUM>, the operator may slide the shuttle <NUM> to the retracting position, thus switching the rotational direction of motor <NUM> and fish tape drum <NUM>, and operate the motor <NUM> to reel in the fish tape <NUM> by depressing the trigger <NUM>. At some point during retraction, it is possible that the fish tape <NUM> may become entangled within a conduit or wall, or the moving end <NUM> may become caught or snagged. To prevent damage to the motor <NUM> and transmission <NUM>, the controller <NUM> is capable of determining that the fish tape <NUM> has become entangled or snagged and in response, deactivates the motor <NUM>. In some embodiments, the controller <NUM> monitors the current drawn by the motor <NUM> from the battery <NUM> during operation. If and when the fish tape <NUM> becomes snagged or entangled, the amount of current that the motor <NUM> draws will be above a predetermined threshold. The controller <NUM> detects that the current drawn is above the predetermined threshold, and in response deactivate the motor <NUM>.

Instead of powered retraction, as some point the operator may switch the lever <NUM> to the extended position, as shown in <FIG>, and crank the fish tape <NUM> back into the tool <NUM> manually, via the crank hub <NUM>. Specifically, as the operator rotates the lever <NUM>, and thus the crank hub <NUM>, with respect to the housing <NUM>, the drum portion <NUM> of the fish tape drum <NUM> is also caused to rotate because the legs <NUM> of the crank hub <NUM> are locked in the recesses <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>. Rotation of the crank hub <NUM> also causes rotation of the output reel <NUM>, because the legs <NUM> of the output reel <NUM> are arranged in the recesses <NUM> of the crank hub <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the lever <NUM> is used to overcome the cogging torque of the motor <NUM>. In other words, as the crank hub <NUM> is manually rotated, the output reel <NUM> rotates and transfers torque back through the transmission <NUM>.

In other embodiments, however, a clutch mechanism is included to decouple the output reel <NUM> from the transmission <NUM>, allowing the output reel <NUM> to spin freely with respect to the transmission <NUM> when the crank hub <NUM> manually rotates the output reel <NUM>. Thus, in embodiments with a clutch, torque is not transmitted back from the output reel <NUM> to the transmission <NUM> as the operator manually cranks the crank hub <NUM> with the lever <NUM>. For instance, upon the lever <NUM> being moved to the extended position, the crank hub <NUM> may push the key <NUM> out of the keyway recess <NUM>, such that the output reel <NUM> may rotate relative to the transmission <NUM> when it receives torque from manual rotation of the crank hub <NUM>. Though manual operation of the tool <NUM> via the crank hub <NUM> is described here with respect to retracting the fish tape <NUM> into the tool <NUM>, manual operation via the crank hub <NUM> can also be used to dispense fish tape <NUM> from the tool <NUM>.

Once the fish tape <NUM> has been retracted into the tool <NUM>, the operator may need to use a new fish tape drum <NUM> with a new type of fish tape <NUM> that is different from the current fish tape <NUM>. For instance, the operator may need to change between conductive and non-conductive fish tape <NUM>. Thus, the operator must remove the currently-installed fish tape drum <NUM>.

To remove the fish tape drum <NUM>, the operator moves the tabs <NUM> of the detent members <NUM> of the crank hub <NUM> radially inward, causing the detent members <NUM> to be held in a radially inward position, as shown in <FIG>. The lips <NUM> of the detent members <NUM> are thus moved radially inward of edge <NUM>, allowing the crank hub <NUM> to be removed from the aperture <NUM> of the door <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The latch <NUM> is then moved to the unlocked position, allowing the door <NUM> to be moved to the open position, as shown in <FIG>. The operator is then able to remove the fish tape drum <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, and replace it with a different fish tape drum <NUM>, as described above.

<FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> illustrate a different embodiment of a fish tape drum <NUM>. The fish tape drum <NUM> includes a drum portion <NUM> including first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM>. The first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM> are each separately and rotatably supported by a frame <NUM> of the fish tape drum <NUM>. A length of fish tape <NUM> (omitted in <FIG> and <FIG> for clarity) is retained between the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>. Each of the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM> defines radially outward-extending recesses <NUM> that serve the same function as the recesses <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM> of fish tape drum <NUM>. The first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM> are jointly rotatable relative to the frame <NUM> in the same manner as the drum portion <NUM> is rotatable relative to the frame <NUM> of the fish tape drum <NUM>, as explained above, in order to dispense or retract the fish tape <NUM> from or into the fish tape drum <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> and <FIG> the frame <NUM> may include a shelf portion <NUM>. Thus, in the embodiments of <FIG> and <FIG> and <FIG>, the fish tape tool <NUM> omits door <NUM> as shown in <FIG> and instead, when the fish tape drum <NUM> is received in the interior chamber <NUM>, the shelf portion <NUM> of the frame <NUM> rests on the base <NUM> of the housing <NUM> of the tool <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Latches <NUM> on the fish tape tool <NUM>, such as over-center latches, are used to secure the shelf portion <NUM> to the base <NUM> in order to prevent the fish tape drum <NUM> from slipping out of the base <NUM>. As shown in the embodiment of <FIG>, the shelf portion <NUM> includes hooks <NUM> engagable by the latches <NUM> and gripping recesses <NUM> graspable by the operator to insert or remove the fish tape drum <NUM> into the interior chamber <NUM> of the fish tape tool <NUM>. Also, in the embodiments of <FIG> and <FIG> and <FIG>, the crank hub <NUM> is omitted and thus, the output reel <NUM> rotates the drum portion <NUM> of the fish tape drum <NUM> directly, via the arrangement of legs <NUM> of the output reel <NUM> in the recesses <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the frame <NUM> includes a nozzle <NUM> extending from an external surface <NUM> of the frame <NUM> and including a nozzle channel <NUM> defining an exit <NUM> for the fish tape <NUM>. With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the exit <NUM> of the nozzle channel <NUM> has an exit width EW and an exit height EH. At least one of the exit width EW and the exit height EH are respectively less than a moving end height MH and a moving end width MW of a moving end <NUM> of the fish tape <NUM>, which is arranged outside the fish tape drum <NUM>. Thus, the moving end <NUM> is prevented from entering exit <NUM>. The frame <NUM> also defines a plurality of radially inward-extending recesses <NUM> at the external surface <NUM>, which serve the same function as the recesses <NUM> of frame <NUM> of fish tape drum <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the frame <NUM> includes a separator rib <NUM> extending radially inward from an inner surface <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. The separator rib <NUM> includes a rib channel <NUM> extending through the rib <NUM> and leading to the nozzle channel <NUM>, thus providing a passage for the fish tape <NUM> to exit and enter the drum portion <NUM>. In some embodiments, the fish tape <NUM> is not provided in a single layer design. In other words, the fish tape <NUM> is not stacked one revolution on top of the next in a single column stack, such that multiple revolutions of the fish tape <NUM> are arranged approximately on the same plane as one another between the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM>. Instead, the fish tape is freely located throughout the space in between the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM>. In order to prevent the fish tape <NUM> from tangling and binding as the fish tape <NUM> is being dispensed from or retracted into the drum portion <NUM>, the fish tape <NUM> in the drum portion <NUM> is prevented by the separating rib <NUM> from applying pressure against the portion of the fish tape <NUM> that is exiting or entering the rib channel <NUM>, nozzle channel <NUM>, and exit <NUM>.

With continued reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, the frame <NUM> includes a diverter rib <NUM> extending approximately <NUM>° around the circumference of the inner surface <NUM> of the frame <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the diverter rib <NUM> includes a nose <NUM> having a first angled face <NUM> that is not parallel to the first clamshell <NUM> and a second angled face <NUM> that is not parallel to the second clamshell <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the nose <NUM> is arranged proximate to and on the same circumferential plane as the rib channel <NUM>. As the fish tape <NUM> is retracted into the fish tape drum <NUM>, instead of becoming frictionally locked on the diverter rib <NUM>, the fish tape <NUM> is deflected away from the diverter rib <NUM> by one of the first or second angled faces <NUM>, <NUM>, such that the fish tape <NUM> is moved towards and into contact with one of the first or second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM>, which are rotating with respect to the frame <NUM> during the retraction operation.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG> and <FIG>, the first clamshell <NUM> includes first slots <NUM> and the second clamshell <NUM> includes second slots <NUM> that are arranged in locations that correspond to the first slots <NUM>, such that the first and second slots <NUM>, <NUM> are aligned. The first and second slots <NUM>, <NUM> extend between an inner wall <NUM> defining an inner diameter and an outer wall <NUM> defining an outer diameter of the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM>, and thus the drum portion <NUM>. An anchor member, such as pin <NUM>, is arranged within a first slot <NUM> and a corresponding second slot <NUM>. The pin <NUM> is moveable along the slots <NUM>, <NUM>, between a first position, in which the pin <NUM> is proximate the inner wall <NUM>, and a second position, in which the pin <NUM> is proximate the outer wall <NUM>. In other embodiments, such as the embodiment of <FIG>, the first clamshell <NUM> includes just one first slot <NUM> and the second clamshell <NUM> includes just one second slot <NUM>.

The fish tape <NUM> includes an anchor end that is opposite of the moving end <NUM> and secured to the pin <NUM>. In a retracting operation, when an operator is retracting the fish tape <NUM> into the drum portion <NUM>, the pin <NUM> will automatically move towards the first position in response to the retracting rotation of the drum portion <NUM> until the pin <NUM> arrives at the first position. As the drum portion <NUM> continues its retracting rotation, the pin <NUM> will remain in the first position until the retracting operation is completed or the operator stops the retracting operation. Then, if an operator switches to a dispensing operation, as the fish tape <NUM> is dispensed from the drum portion <NUM>, the pin <NUM> will move from the first position towards the second position in response to the dispensing rotation of the drum portion <NUM> until the pin <NUM> arrives at the second position. As the drum portion <NUM> continues its dispensing rotation, the pin <NUM> will remain in the second position until the dispensing operation is completed or the operator stops the dispensing operation.

In another embodiment of fish tape drum <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the anchor end of the fish tape <NUM> is secured at a fastening point <NUM> proximate the outer wall <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>. Thus, in the embodiment of <FIG>, when the fish tape drum <NUM> includes a non-single layer tape, locating the fastening point <NUM> proximate the outer wall <NUM> of the drum portion eliminates "back-wind" and prevents the fish tape <NUM> from fouling when the fish tape <NUM> is dispensed under load.

In a different embodiment of the fish tape drum <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the drum portion <NUM> includes an inner annular wall <NUM> to separate the drum portion <NUM> into an outer annular chamber <NUM> and an inner annular chamber <NUM>. The inner annular wall <NUM> can be used to limit space inside the drum portion <NUM> for different types of fish tape. For instance, steel fish tape takes up less volume than the non-conductive fish tape. Thus, an operator can load the steel tape into the outer annular chamber <NUM>, allowing the steel tape to fit more snugly within the drum portion <NUM> than in embodiments where the inner annular wall <NUM> is omitted. In this manner, the time it takes to dispense the steel tape can be reduced after the operator has pulled the trigger <NUM> for a dispensing operation.

In some embodiments, a first insert <NUM> and a second insert <NUM> are removably arranged between the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>, such that a channel <NUM> is defined between the first and second inserts <NUM>, <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. In some embodiments, the first insert is removably coupled to the first clamshell <NUM> and the second insert <NUM> is removably coupled to the second clamshell <NUM>, such that the first and second inserts <NUM>, <NUM> are respectively coupled for rotation with the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM>, which are coupled for co-rotation themselves. By arranging the first and second inserts <NUM>, <NUM> within the drum portion <NUM>, the axial spacing between the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM> is limited to the channel <NUM>. Thus, when using single layer fish tape (omitted from <FIG> for clarity), the fish tape is limited to align itself, revolution upon revolution, within the channel <NUM>. By forcing the single layer fish tape to be a single stacked column of tape within the channel <NUM>, friction between the revolutions of fish tape is reduced.

In some embodiments, a third insert <NUM> is removably arranged in the drum portion <NUM> between the inner and outer walls <NUM>, <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The first clamshell <NUM> is clear plastic in <FIG> to illustrate the position of the third insert <NUM> relative to the inner and outer walls <NUM>, <NUM>. The fish tape <NUM> is arranged in a circumferential channel <NUM> between the third insert <NUM> and the outer wall <NUM>. A first radial distance D1 is defined between the inner and outer walls <NUM>, <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM> and a second radial distance D2 is defined between the third insert <NUM> and the outer wall <NUM>. The second radial distance D2 is less than the first radial distance D1, such that the third insert <NUM> functions to limit the radial space in which the fish tape <NUM> is arranged in the drum portion <NUM>, i.e. the channel <NUM>, making the third insert <NUM> an effective addition for shorter-length fish tape <NUM>. Specifically, by inserting the third insert <NUM> into the drum portion <NUM>, the lag time between initiating a feeding operation with trigger <NUM> and the point at which the moving end <NUM> of the fish tape <NUM> begins dispensing is reduced for shorter-length fish tape <NUM>.

In some embodiments, instead of a diverter rib <NUM>, the frame <NUM> includes bearings <NUM> on an inner edge <NUM> adjacent the inner surface <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. Specifically, the bearings <NUM> are arranged in bores <NUM> in the inner edge <NUM> and are configured to rotate with respect to the inner edge <NUM>. In some embodiments, the bearings <NUM> are needle bearings. The outer wall <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM> is configured to move along the bearings <NUM> as the drum portion <NUM> rotates relative to the frame <NUM>, thus reducing friction between the outer wall <NUM> and the frame <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the exit <NUM> for the fish tape <NUM> is modified such that the exit width EW is wider than the moving end width MW, while the exit height EH still remains less than the moving height MH of the moving end <NUM> of the fish tape, as shown in <FIG>. The exit width EW is much greater than the exit height EH, such that the fish tape <NUM> is not restricted as it is dispensed or retracted into the exit <NUM>. In some embodiments, the length of the exit width EW is more than four times the length than the exit height EH. Also, because the exit height EH is less than the moving height MH of the moving end <NUM>, the moving end <NUM> is prevented from being retracted into the exit <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a fourth insert <NUM> is removably arranged in the drum portion <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>. The fourth insert <NUM> has a first wall <NUM> and a second wall <NUM> forming a cross-sectional V-shape. An acute angle α is defined between the first and second walls <NUM>, <NUM>. The fourth insert <NUM> also includes a joining portion <NUM> that joins the first and second walls <NUM>, <NUM>. The joining portion <NUM> is approximately parallel to an axis of rotation <NUM> about which the drum portion <NUM> rotates. In the illustrated embodiment, the joining portion <NUM> is spaced from the inner wall <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of ribs <NUM> enable the fourth insert <NUM> to be removably coupled to the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>. A channel <NUM> is defined between the first and second walls <NUM>, <NUM> and in operation, the fish tape <NUM> is arranged in the channel <NUM> (but is omitted from <FIG> for clarity).

As shown in <FIG>, a distance between the first and second walls <NUM>, <NUM> increases when moving in a direction from the rotational axis <NUM> toward the outer wall <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>. In other words, the channel <NUM> gets progressively wider when moving in a direction from the rotational axis <NUM> toward the outer wall <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>. The fourth insert <NUM> thus provides a wider space for the fish tape <NUM> near the outer wall <NUM>, proximate the channel <NUM> leading to the exit <NUM>, and a narrower space for the fish tape <NUM> near joining portion <NUM>. The progressively widening channel <NUM> helps the fish tape <NUM> to layer more evenly in the drum portion <NUM> and prevents the fish tape <NUM> from tangling during a feeding operation. The progressively widening channel <NUM> also helps prevent steel fish tape from binding.

In some embodiments of the separator rib <NUM>, the rib channel <NUM> arranged in the separator rib <NUM> is defined by two side walls <NUM>, <NUM> and a bottom wall <NUM> of the separator rib <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. The separator rib <NUM> further includes an angled protrusion <NUM> extending inwardly from the bottom wall <NUM> and having an angled edge <NUM> that forms an acute angle β with respect to the bottom wall <NUM>. Thus, as the fish tape <NUM> stacks on itself during a retracting operation, the angled protrusion <NUM> tends to push the layers of fish tape <NUM> off to either side of the separator rib <NUM>, in order to inhibit the fish tape <NUM> from forming in a single column layered on itself.

In the embodiments of <FIG> and <FIG> the drum portion <NUM> includes an intermediate wall <NUM> coupled between the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM> and radially arranged between the inner and outer walls <NUM>, <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>. Only the intermediate wall <NUM> is shown in <FIG>, for clarity. However, the intermediate wall <NUM> is shown in the drum portion <NUM> in <FIG>. The fish tape <NUM> is arranged between the intermediate wall <NUM> and the outer wall <NUM> within the drum portion <NUM>.

The intermediate wall <NUM> includes a well <NUM> that functions as a spring seat for a pair of biasing members, such as springs <NUM>. The springs <NUM> respectively bias a pair of holding members <NUM> outwardly from the intermediate wall <NUM>. The holding members <NUM> each include an aperture <NUM> in which the movable anchor, such as the pin <NUM>, is retained. Thus, the pin <NUM>, arranged in the slots <NUM>, <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>), is biased by the springs <NUM> toward the second position of the pin <NUM>, in which the pin <NUM> is proximate the outer wall <NUM>, such that during a retracting or dispensing operation, an anchor end <NUM> of the fish tape <NUM> is biased toward the outer wall <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM> to eliminate tangling of the fish tape <NUM> until the spring force is overcome. In the embodiments of <FIG> and <FIG>, the first position of the pin <NUM> is proximate the intermediate wall <NUM> rather than the inner wall <NUM>. Thus, the intermediate wall <NUM> functions as an "inner wall" for the embodiments of <FIG> and <FIG>, because the fish tape <NUM> is arranged between intermediate wall <NUM> and the outer wall <NUM>, and because the pin <NUM> only moves between the intermediate wall <NUM> and the outer wall <NUM>.

In the embodiment of <FIG>, the anchor end <NUM> of the fish tape <NUM> is looped over the pin <NUM> and welded to itself at a weld point <NUM>, which provides a high strength connection of the fish tape <NUM> to the pin <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a fish tape tool <NUM> that is similar to the fish tape tool of <FIG>, except for the following differences explained below. Specifically, the fish tape tool <NUM> includes a second motor <NUM> that is coupled to a drive roller <NUM> via a belt <NUM> or second transmission. The drive roller <NUM> and an adjacent idler roller <NUM> are arranged proximate the nozzle <NUM> or rib channel <NUM> (not shown in <FIG> but see <FIG>). In the embodiment of <FIG>, the first motor <NUM> is used only to retract the fish tape <NUM>. The second motor <NUM> is included only for dispensing the fish tape <NUM>, which is wedged between the drive roller <NUM> and idler roller <NUM> by a clamping force. Thus, in a dispensing operation, the second motor <NUM> rotates the drive roller <NUM> and because the fish tape <NUM> is clamped between the drive and idler rollers <NUM>, <NUM>, rotation of the drive roller <NUM> forces the fish tape <NUM> out of the nozzle <NUM>. In the embodiment of <FIG>, the first transmission <NUM> has a clutch to clutch out the first motor <NUM> during a dispensing operation and the second motor <NUM> also has a clutch mechanism, such as in the second transmission, to clutch out the second motor <NUM> during a retracting operation. Thus, during the dispensing operation, even though dispensing of the fish tape <NUM> causes the drum portion <NUM> to rotate relative to the frame <NUM>, thus causing the output reel <NUM> to rotate, rotation of the output reel <NUM> is not translated back through to the first motor <NUM> because of the clutch in the transmission <NUM>. During a retracting operation, even though retraction of the fish tape <NUM> causes the drum portion <NUM> to rotate relative to the frame <NUM>, thus causing the drive roller <NUM> to rotate as the fish tape <NUM> moves between the driver roller <NUM> and the idler roller <NUM>, rotation of the drive roller <NUM> is not translated to the second motor <NUM> because of the clutch mechanism, e.g., in the second transmission.

<FIG> illustrates a fish tape tool <NUM> that is similar to the fish tape tool of <FIG>, except for the following differences explained below. Specifically, the fish tape tool <NUM> includes the drive roller <NUM> and idler roller <NUM> of the embodiment of <FIG>, but omits the second motor <NUM> and the belt <NUM> or second transmission. Instead, a belt <NUM> or second transmission transmits torque between the motor <NUM> and the drive roller <NUM>. In the embodiment of <FIG>, the drive and idler rollers <NUM>, <NUM> include one way needle bearings. Thus, during the dispensing operation, the drive roller <NUM> receives torque from the motor <NUM> via the belt <NUM> or second transmission and the fish tape <NUM> is forced out of the nozzle <NUM> in a similar manner as in the embodiment of <FIG>. During a retracting operation, as the fish tape <NUM> is retracted between the drive and idler rollers <NUM>, <NUM>, the drive and idler rollers <NUM>, <NUM> spin freely via the one way needle bearings, such that rotation of the drive roller <NUM> does not transmit torque back to the motor <NUM> via the belt <NUM> or second transmission.

<FIG> illustrates a fish tape tool <NUM> that is similar to the fish tape tool of <FIG>, except for the following differences explained below. Specifically, the fish tape tool <NUM> includes the drive roller <NUM> and idler roller <NUM> of the embodiment of <FIG>, but omits the belt <NUM> or second transmission between the motor <NUM> and the drive roller <NUM>. Instead, the outer wall <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM> of the fish tape drum <NUM> includes a ring gear <NUM> that meshes with the drive roller <NUM>. Thus, during the dispensing operation, the drum portion <NUM> is rotated by the output reel <NUM>, causing the ring gear <NUM> to rotate the drive roller <NUM>, such that the fish tape <NUM> is forced out of the nozzle <NUM> in a similar manner as in the embodiment of <FIG>. During a retracting operation, as the fish tape <NUM> is retracted between the drive and idler rollers <NUM>, <NUM>, the drive and idler rollers <NUM>, <NUM> spin freely via the one way needle bearings, such that rotation of the drive roller <NUM> does not transmit torque back to the motor <NUM> via the ring gear <NUM>.

As discussed above and shown in <FIG>, in some embodiments, there are a plurality of different fish tape drums 182a, 182b, 182c, each containing a different type of fish tape <NUM>, such as steel, conductive, non-conductive, etc. Depending on which fish tape drum 182a, 182b, 182c is inserted into the fish tape tool <NUM>, the motor <NUM> may need to generate a different level of torque to rotate output reel <NUM> to rotate the drum portion <NUM> of the fish tape drum <NUM>, because some fish tapes <NUM> are relatively weaker or stronger than others. Thus, according to the present invention, the fish tape tool <NUM> includes a sensor <NUM> (<FIG>) to detect what type of fish tape <NUM> is in the fish tape drum <NUM> inserted into the chamber <NUM> of the housing <NUM>. The sensor <NUM> is in electrical communication with the controller <NUM>, which is in communication with the motor <NUM>.

In some embodiments, each of the fish tape drums 182a, 182b, 182c includes a detectable element 183a, 183b, 183c, such as a magnet, RFID tag, or barcode, that is indicative of the type of fish tape <NUM> in the respective fish tape drum 182a, 182b, 182c. The detectable elements 183a, 183b, 183c are respectively detectable by the sensor <NUM> of the fish tape tool <NUM> when the respective fish tape drums 182a, 182b, <NUM> are received in the chamber <NUM>. For example, the sensor <NUM> may be a hall-effect sensor, an RFID reader, or barcode reader. Thus, based on the sensor <NUM> detecting one of the detectable elements 182a, 182b, 182c, the controller <NUM> is able to determine what type of fish tape <NUM> is in the fish tape drum <NUM> loaded into the fish tape tool <NUM>.

Based on the type of fish tape <NUM> determined by the controller <NUM>, the controller <NUM> can accordingly adjust the torque that is generated by the motor <NUM> to rotate output reel <NUM> without requiring the operator to make any proactive adjustment to the fish tape tool <NUM>. For instance, when the controller <NUM> determines that a relatively weaker fish tape <NUM> is in fish tape drum <NUM>, the controller <NUM> will cause the motor <NUM> to generate less torque than if the controller <NUM> has detected that a relatively stronger fish tape <NUM> is in the fish tape drum <NUM>. Likewise, when the controller <NUM> determines that a relatively stronger fish tape <NUM> is in fish tape drum <NUM>, the controller <NUM> will cause the motor <NUM> to generate more torque than if the controller <NUM> has detected that a relatively weaker fish tape <NUM> is in the fish tape drum <NUM>. In this manner, the fish tape tool <NUM> avoids breaking a relatively weaker fish tape <NUM> by reducing the torque applied to the drum portion <NUM> of the fish tape drum <NUM> via the output reel <NUM>. Also, the fish tape tool <NUM> can apply more torque to the drum portion <NUM> when the fish tape drum <NUM> contains a relatively stronger type of fish tape <NUM>.

In other embodiments, the detectable element <NUM> is omitted from the fish tape drum <NUM>, and the sensor <NUM> is a weight sensor configured to detect the weight of the fish tape drum <NUM> and fish tape <NUM> therein. Thus, based on the weight detected by the sensor <NUM>, the controller <NUM> can determine what type of fish tape <NUM> is in the drum <NUM> and adjust the torque generated by the motor <NUM>, as described above.

In other embodiments, the detectable element <NUM> is omitted and the sensor <NUM> is configured to sense the dielectric constant of the fish tape <NUM> within the fish tape drum <NUM>. Thus, the sensor <NUM> can detect whether the fish tape <NUM> in the fish tape drum <NUM> is conductive or non-conductive when the fish tape drum <NUM> is received in the chamber <NUM>. Based on whether the sensor <NUM> has detected conductive or non-conductive fish tape <NUM>, the controller <NUM> can determine what type of fish tape is in the drum <NUM> and adjust the torque generated by the motor <NUM>, as described above.

<FIG> illustrate an embodiment similar to the embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG>, with the following differences explained below. In addition to the well <NUM> which holds the holding member <NUM>, the intermediate wall <NUM> also includes a plurality of secondary wells <NUM>. Like the well <NUM> which has one or more springs <NUM>, the secondary wells <NUM> each include one or more pusher springs <NUM>. However, unlike the well <NUM> and springs <NUM>, the one or more pusher springs <NUM> of the secondary wells <NUM> each bias a respective pushing member <NUM> radially outward from the intermediate wall <NUM> and toward the outer wall <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM> of the fish tape drum <NUM>. Thus, like the embodiments of <FIG> and <FIG>, the intermediate wall <NUM> of the embodiment of <FIG> functions as an "inner wall", because the fish tape <NUM> is arranged between intermediate wall <NUM> and the outer wall <NUM>, and because the pin <NUM> only moves between the intermediate wall <NUM> and the outer wall <NUM>.

As shown schematically in <FIG>, each pair of adjacent secondary wells <NUM> and pushing members <NUM> is equally spaced from one another. In other words, the same angle θ is defined between each pair of adjacent secondary wells <NUM> and pushing members <NUM>. Also, the same angle θ is defined between the well <NUM> for the holding member <NUM> and anchor <NUM>, and each of the secondary wells <NUM> and pushing members <NUM> adjacent the well <NUM>, holding member <NUM> and pin <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, there are three secondary wells <NUM> and pushing members <NUM>, such that the angle θ is <NUM>°. However, in other embodiments there can be more pushing members <NUM>, such that the angle θ is smaller than <NUM>°, and in other embodiments, there can be fewer pushing members <NUM>, such that the angle is θ greater than <NUM>°.

The pushing members <NUM> each include a body <NUM> and head <NUM> oriented transverse to the body <NUM>. At least a portion of the bodies <NUM> are arranged in the secondary wells <NUM> and the heads <NUM> are arranged outside the secondary wells <NUM>. In operation of the embodiment of <FIG>, the pin <NUM> function exactly as in the embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG>. However, unlike the embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG>, the heads <NUM> of the pushing members <NUM> of the embodiment of <FIG> engage and push an intermediate portion of the fish tape <NUM> that is in between the moving end <NUM> and the anchor end <NUM> radially outward to increase tension of the fish tape <NUM> and thereby inhibit the intermediate portion of fish tape <NUM> from becoming tangled in the free space in between the intermediate wall <NUM> and the outer wall <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in some embodiments, the drum portion <NUM> of the fish tape drum <NUM> includes a flexible constricting assembly <NUM> radially arranged between the intermediate wall <NUM> and the outer wall <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>. In the embodiment of <FIG>, only the well <NUM> for holding members <NUM> (omitted from <FIG> for clarity) is shown on the intermediate wall <NUM>, but in other embodiments, the intermediate wall <NUM> could be the intermediate wall <NUM> of <FIG>, thus including a plurality of secondary wells <NUM> and pushing members <NUM>.

The flexible constricting assembly <NUM> includes a channel member <NUM> that is coupled to the frame <NUM>. The channel member <NUM> has a channel <NUM> leading to the nozzle channel <NUM>, thus providing a passage for the fish tape <NUM> to exit and enter the drum portion <NUM>, similar to the rib channel <NUM> of <FIG>. The flexible constricting assembly <NUM> also includes a first inner ring <NUM> and a second inner ring <NUM> that are moveable with respect to one another as described in further detail below. The flexible constricting assembly <NUM> also includes a coupling member <NUM> coupled to a side of the frame <NUM> opposite the channel member <NUM>. The first inner ring <NUM> is pivotably coupled to the channel member <NUM> via a first pivot linkage <NUM>, and the second inner ring <NUM> is pivotably coupled to the coupling member <NUM> via a second pivot linkage <NUM>. In other embodiments, the coupling member <NUM> is omitted and the second inner ring <NUM> is pivotably coupled directly to the frame <NUM> via the second pivot linkage <NUM>. The first inner ring <NUM> includes an opening <NUM> for the fish tape <NUM> to pass to and from the channel <NUM> of the channel member <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the flexible constricting assembly <NUM> also includes a plurality of constant force springs <NUM> that are respectively rotatably mounted on posts <NUM> arranged on the first and second inner rings <NUM>, <NUM>. The constant force springs <NUM> mounted on the posts <NUM> of the first inner ring <NUM> are wrapped around the second inner ring <NUM> and have ends <NUM> that are coupled to the second inner ring <NUM> via fasteners <NUM>. The constant force springs <NUM> mounted on the posts <NUM> of the second inner ring <NUM> are wrapped around the first inner ring <NUM> and have ends <NUM> that are coupled to first inner ring <NUM> via fasteners <NUM>. As shown <FIG>, the length of each constant force spring <NUM> is thus tensioned over the length of the first and second inner rings <NUM>, <NUM>. Therefore, the constant force springs <NUM> function to apply a constricting force on the first and second inner rings <NUM>, <NUM>, causing them to move toward each other, reducing the diameter of their combined circumference. In turn, the first and second inner rings <NUM>, <NUM> bias the fish tape <NUM> radially inward toward the intermediate wall <NUM>.

As the first and second inner rings <NUM>, <NUM> are moved toward each other by the constant force springs <NUM>, the first and second pivot linkages <NUM>, <NUM> pivot radially inward. However, the flexible constrict assembly <NUM> is flexible, and thus, during a dispensing or retracting operation, as the fish tape <NUM> is dispensed or retracted into the fish tape drum <NUM>, the fish tape <NUM> may tend to move radially outward in the fish tape drum <NUM>, which in some embodiments can be due to the pin <NUM> and pushing members <NUM> biasing the fish tape <NUM> radially outward. Thus, as the fish tape <NUM> tends to move radially outward, the first and second inner rings <NUM>, <NUM> expand against the biasing force of the constant force springs <NUM>, and the first and second pivot linkages <NUM>, <NUM> pivot radially outward to accommodate this expansion.

Therefore, the flexible constricting assembly <NUM> works together with the intermediate wall <NUM> to keep the fish tape <NUM> arranged in the limited space therebetween, but also accommodates the radial expansion and contraction of the fish tape <NUM> during dispensing and retracing operations. For example, without the flexible constricting assembly <NUM>, when starting a dispensing operation, the fish tape <NUM> tends to radially expand toward the outer wall <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>. During this radial expansion, the fish tape <NUM> tends to tangle because of the large volume of free space between the intermediate wall <NUM> and the outer wall <NUM>. In contrast, when the flexible constricting assembly <NUM> is included with the fish tape drum <NUM>, the flexible constrict assembly prevents said radial expansion, and thus inhibits tangling of the fish tape <NUM>.

In some embodiments, as shown in <FIG>, the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM> respectively include first and second sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM> of the drum portion <NUM>, and the first and second clamshells <NUM>, <NUM> together define a circumferential wall <NUM> extending between the first and second sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>. A central plane P is defined at a location that is equidistant from the first and second sidewalls <NUM>, <NUM>. In the embodiment of <FIG>, the nozzle <NUM>, nozzle channel <NUM>, and exit <NUM> of the frame <NUM> are all shifted to one side of the frame <NUM>, such that they are all offset from the central plane P and proximate the second sidewall <NUM>, rather than being intersected by the central plane P, as in the embodiments of <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>. Also, instead of locating the separator rib <NUM> and rib channel <NUM> (e.g. as shown in <FIG>) of the frame <NUM>, such that they are intersected by the central plane P, the frame <NUM> of the embodiment of <FIG> includes an angled rib <NUM> and a lead channel <NUM> that are both offset from the central plane P and proximate the second sidewall <NUM>. The lead channel <NUM> is in communication with the nozzle channel <NUM>, such that like the rib channel <NUM> of <FIG>, the lead channel <NUM> of <FIG> is configured to permit the fish tape <NUM> to pass between the drum portion <NUM> and the nozzle channel <NUM>.

Claim 1:
A fish tape assembly comprising:
a fish tape tool (<NUM>) including a housing (<NUM>), a chamber (<NUM>) defined in the housing and a motor (<NUM>) supported by the housing; and
a fish tape drum (<NUM>) configured to be inserted into the chamber of the housing, the fish tape drum containing a type of fish tape (<NUM>) and including a rotatable drum portion configured to rotate in response to receiving torque from the motor,
characterised in that:
the fish tape tool includes a sensor (<NUM>) configured to detect the type of fish tape in the fish tape drum inserted into the chamber of the housing; and
the fish tape tool is configured to set a torque level of the motor, to rotate the fish tape drum, based on the type of fish tape detected by the sensor.