Abstract: Power tools such as cutting saws with rotary powered blades are described. Also described are various accessories for tools used with cylindrical workpieces such as pipes are described. The accessories include a clamp and saw joint assembly, various quick connection assemblies between a saw and a clamping system, a plunge guide assembly, a latch plate assembly, an interlock switch, a blade guard system, and a chip management system or chip deflector. Also described are related methods of use.

Abstract: Power tools such as cutting saws with rotary powered blades are described. Also described are various accessories for tools used with cylindrical workpieces such as pipes are described. The accessories include a clamp and saw joint assembly, various quick connection assemblies between a saw and a clamping system, a plunge guide assembly, a latch plate assembly, an interlock switch, a blade guard system, and a chip management system or chip deflector. Also described are related methods of use.

Abstract: Power tools such as cutting saws with rotary powered blades are described. Also described are various accessories for tools used with cylindrical workpieces such as pipes are described. The accessories include a clamp and saw joint assembly, various quick connection assemblies between a saw and a clamping system, a plunge guide assembly, a latch plate assembly, an interlock switch, a blade guard system, and a chip management system or chip deflector. Also described are related methods of use.

Abstract: Systems for energizing a drain cleaning cable within a drain line or other region of interest are described. A signal transmitter on an end portion of the cable enables the cable end portion to be sensed or located when in a pipe or conduit underground. Also described are electrically conductive drivetrains for transferring rotary power.

Abstract: Shear tools are described. In one version, the shear tools include a pair of pivotally movable jaws positioned between sideplates. Various shearing dies are also described. Also described are systems and related methods utilizing the shear tools and dies which enable convenient shearing or severing of workpieces such as threaded rods.

Abstract: Wrenches commonly known as “pipe wrenches” which include sidewall surface configurations within a channel extending through a housing component of the wrench are described. Also described are wrenches that include one or more shim components that can be positioned in the housing channel. In addition, methods for reducing failure or fracturing of the wrench due to application of high side or lateral loads are described.

Abstract: Systems and methods for identifying one or more points of interest in pipes or drain lines are described. Examples of points of interest include blockages caused by debris in the pipe or drain line. The systems are incorporated into drain cleaning machines. Also described are drain cleaning machines utilizing the systems.

Abstract: Drain cleaning machines having various fluid management provisions are described. The various fluid management provisions serve to direct and collect fluid and debris carried with a drain cleaning cable undergoing retraction into the machine.

Abstract: Motor dampening provisions are described. Incorporation and use of the motor dampener(s) in a rotary type drain cleaning machine enables elimination of a clutch in the machine. Also described are clutch-free drive systems using the motor dampener(s). Also described are torque countering members that are used in conjunction with the motor dampener(s).

Abstract: Electrically powered crimp tools are described. Also described are methods of operating the tools and methods of crimping. The tools include a housing, an electric motor, a roller screw assembly, and a jaw assembly. In particular versions of the tools the jaw assembly includes a cam linkage member that is manually displaced by a user to more easily open the jaws after performing a crimp.

Abstract: Various surface cam planetary mechanisms are described that convert rotational motion to linear reciprocating motion. Also described are assemblies using such mechanisms such as pump drives. A surface cam component used in the mechanisms includes a cam race that exhibits an undulating surface.

Abstract: Systems for cutting cylindrical workpieces such as pipe are described. The systems include a clamping assembly and can be used in various methods. In one method, the clamping assembly and a cutting tool or saw is used on a rotating workpiece. In another method, the clamping assembly and a cutting tool or saw is used on a stationary workpiece. Also described are frames that can be secured to the clamping assembly.

Abstract: Power tools such as cutting saws with rotary powered blades are described. Also described are various accessories for tools used with cylindrical workpieces such as pipes are described. The accessories include a clamp and saw joint assembly, various quick connection assemblies between a saw and a clamping system, a plunge guide assembly, a latch plate assembly, an interlock switch, a blade guard system, and a chip management system or chip deflector. Also described are related methods of use.

Abstract: Power drive tools are described. The tools include one or more threading pawls, one or more release pawls, and a drive ring selectively positionable relative to the tool and engaged with the pawls to selectively extend or retract the pawls. Also described are tools that include one or more lights to illuminate a workpiece. Also described are tools having distally located shoulder regions at which force may readily be applied. In addition, gear train assemblies for use in the power drive tools are described.

Abstract: Wheeled transport carts are described which are configured for transporting drain cleaning equipment such as drain cleaning machines and drain cleaning cable. The carts include engagement provisions that enable a drain cleaning machine to be affixed to the cart and preclude unintended separation from the cart during use or transport. The engagement provisions also enable the drain cleaning machine to be quickly and easily separated from the cart. Also described are methods of transporting such equipment using the carts. In addition, systems of the cart(s) with various equipment are described.

Abstract: Systems and methods are described for governing and monitoring operations of tools. The systems include a registration and control computer, one or more mobile devices, and one or more tools. The tools include electronic locking provisions which upon activation selectively enable tool operation.