Cable closure end cap

A cable closure end cap arrangement is provided, to achieve a sealing between a cable splice closure, and a cable end in communication therewith. The arrangements according to the invention may be adapted to accommodate more than one cable extending into an end of a cable closure. Preferred arrangements comprise a composite of inner and outer members, each having a bore therein. Each bore is preferably defined by an arrangement of concentric rings, or a circular ridge/trough arrangement. The circular rings include transverse walls extending therebetween, in a preferred manner permitting an accordion-like flexibility. The accordion-like rings accommodate: cables of different sizes; cables at various angles relative to the end cap arrangement and the cable closure; and, movement of the cable closure, for example upon an aerial messenger wire. End cap arrangements according to the present invention are mounted by means of a slit in communication with each bore. Preferred end cap arrangements are made from a rubber, or thermoplastic rubber material, for flexibility and long life.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
The present invention relates to cable splice closures, in particular to 
end caps or to end seals which provide for a sealing relationship between 
cables and cable splice closures. The invention particularly concerns 
cable splice closures such as are frequently used in the 
telecommunications industry. 
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
Cables, such as telecommunication cables, may carry hundreds and sometimes 
thousands of pairs of insulated wires, enclosed within flexible shields or 
tubular sheaths. When two or more cable ends are joined together, as for 
example when extending a cable or when tapping into an extended cable, a 
splice or splice area is created. Generally, the splice area should be 
enclosed, for protection from the environment. For example, if the closure 
is an aerial closure, used with aerially suspended cables, protection 
against damaging interference from weather elements, animals, plants and 
so forth may be necessary or desired. If the enclosure is a buried 
enclosure, protection against ground water, burrowing animals, and soil 
interference is generally required. 
Structures adapted for enclosing such portions of cables are frequently 
referred to as "splice closures". Such closures are typically adapted to 
enclose therein at least two, and sometimes more "cable ends". The term 
"cable end" and variants thereof, as used herein, refers to an area of 
exposure of insulated conductors, i.e., wires and any additional wrappings 
or coverings involved. 
Splice closures, or cable closures, generally comprise an elongate, 
typically cylindrical, casing having first and second opposite ends. 
Cables to be joined at the splice area are generally directed into the 
casing through the casing ends. At each of the casing ends, seal means are 
generally required in order to ensure an environmental seal around the 
cables, i.e. between the cables and the cable enclosure. 
Generally, a plurality of features are desirable in any preferred seal 
system or arrangement for use in association with cable closure ends. 
First, generally the seal system should be such that it can be readily 
mounted around, or removed from association with, a continuous cable 
system. That is, the cable cannot generally be threaded through a single 
aperture, rather the seal arrangement should be adapted for mounting about 
an already positioned cable or cable splice. 
Secondly, preferably the seal system is appropriate for accommodating a 
variety of sizes of cables, so that it can be conveniently applied in the 
field. Also, it should, preferably, be capable of adjustment for various 
directions of extension of associated cables, for example non-coaxial, 
and/or non-parallel, cables extending into a cable splice. A related 
problem concerns movement of the cable closure, for example under high 
winds or the like. Again, it is preferred that the seal system be such as 
to accommodate such movement without substantial loss of the protective 
seal(s). 
It is also preferred that the seal system be replaceable as necessary, for 
example to accommodate new cables, new cable sizes, or merely to ensure a 
good environmental seal over a long period of time. 
Other desirable features and seal systems for cable splice enclosures 
concern features facilitating easy and convenient assembly, since often 
assembly is done in the field. Field assembly may occasionally be under 
adverse weather conditions, or difficult working conditions, for example 
in suspension from a ladder, bucket arrangement or the like. Preferably 
the seal system is such that standard-sized, easy-to-manufacture, parts 
can be utilized, each part being individually customizable or tailorable 
(post-manufacture) to suit a particular cable arrangement. Also, 
preferably the seal system should be such as can be readily manufactured 
from not only conveniently handled and readily available materials, but 
also materials which can withstand adverse environmental conditions. 
The above is only a limited discussion of the many features desirable in a 
sealant system for cable closures. It will be apparent from the following 
descriptions that problems to be addressed and preferably overcome by such 
a system are numerous. 
An end closure system for a cable splice enclosures is disclosed in U.S. 
Pat. No. 4,262,168. The system disclosed therein comprises a split washer 
system. According to the system, a composite end seal or washer comprises 
two mating half-washers, each offset along a diameter and slit along an 
offset radius. As a result of the slit, which communicates between an edge 
the washer and central aperture, the washer can be placed over an already 
positioned cable. The system includes a plurality of concentric cut-out 
portions, to accommodate arrangements of various sizes. A cut-out portion 
or area is a section which can be cut open, by various means such as with 
shears or the like, for various reasons. 
While the system of '168 is highly advantageous for many applications, it 
is not readily adaptable to systems involving a plurality of cables. 
Further, this system generally appears to require use of a mastic sealant, 
or tape, in association therewith, to achieve a good seal. Further, the 
system does not readily accommodate cable movement, non-coaxial alignment, 
or cable alignment not along a longitudinal axis of the closure. 
A conical enclosure is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,468,620. A plurality of 
cables is accommodated, through the utilization of a plurality of cones. 
Each cone has a deformable, external, longitudinal rib, to provide snug 
engagement with a cable. While this arrangement also has its advantages, 
it does not appear to be convenient to assemble and, further, it is not 
apparent that it is appropriate for substantially universal application. 
That is, the cones apparently cannot be readily adapted to a wide variety 
of cable sizes, even though a small amount of adjustment can apparently be 
accommodated by the flexible longitudinal rib. Further, the arrangement 
does not appear particularly convenient to assemble and place in position. 
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,581,265 and 4,610,921 disclose wrap-around closure 
systems. The particular systems shown utilizes a fabric system that has 
conical ends tightly closed by means of: zippers; hook and loop closure 
systems; or the like. 
Other splice closure systems are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,209,067; 
3,816,642; and 4,079,193. All three illustrate attempts at addressing some 
of the above relating concerns. 
None of the previously available arrangements for providing end seals have 
been satisfactory with respect to addressing the above related problems 
and concerns. What has been needed has been a convenient and satisfactory 
system. 
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION 
The objects of the present invention include the provision of an end cap 
arrangement utilizable to provide end seals in a cable closure or the 
like. 
It is another object to the invention to provide a preferred end cap 
arrangement particularly well-adapted for use in aerial closure systems. 
It is another object to the invention to provide an end cap arrangement 
including means readily accommodating: more than one cable extending 
therethrough; cables of different sizes; cables of different angles of 
orientation and extension relative to the closures; closures of various 
types including hardshell closures; closure movement; and, inclement 
weather conditions. 
It is another object of the present invention to provide a preferred end 
cap arrangement which is relatively easy to manufacture, assemble and 
place in an operation, and which is otherwise particularly well-adapted 
for its proposed usages. 
Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent 
from the following descriptions, taken in connection with the accompanying 
drawings, wherein are set forth by way of illustration and example certain 
embodiments of the present invention. 
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
The present invention concerns end seal arrangements for cable splice 
closures or the like. A cable splice closure generally comprises an 
elongate casing positionable around portions of a cable arrangement, 
particularly a cable splice whereat two or more cable ends are brought 
together. In the telecommunications industry such arrangements generally 
involve 2 or more cables, the ends of which are brought, and spliced, 
together at a cable splice. The splice may involve hundreds or thousands 
of individual wire ends, spliced to one another. 
Cable splice closures are generally needed for both aerial and buried cable 
systems. While the present invention is utilizable in both types of 
environments, it is particularly well-adapted for use with aerial 
closures. Aerial closures are closures which, in use, are suspended from a 
messenger wire, support cable or the like, above the ground. 
Seal arrangements of concern to the present invention comprise end cap 
arrangements for splice closures. End cap arrangements according to the 
present invention preferably comprise a relatively soft rubber, or 
thermoplastic rubber, wall member readily deformable to form a good, 
tight, environmental seal with respect to cables or the like extending 
therethrough, and cable enclosures or the like extending around an outer 
edge thereof. For the preferred embodiment, an end cap arrangement wherein 
the wall member comprises a composite of first and second members is 
provided in association with each of opposite ends of a hardshell cable 
enclosure. End cap arrangements including features and advantages 
according to the present invention may be utilized in a variety of shapes 
or designs of enclosures, as will be understood from the detailed 
description. 
In general, the wall member includes at least one longitudinal cable bore 
therein. Each cable bore is defined by a plurality of substantially 
concentric ring members spaced from one another by transverse wall 
sections. The transverse wall sections are positioned generally centrally 
along a longitudinal extension of the associated ring members and bore, to 
define a ridge/trough arrangement including ridges directed toward both of 
opposite longitudinal directions from the transverse wall sections. The 
transverse wall sections on opposite sides of each associated ring member 
are longitudinally spaced from one another to form a discontinuous central 
wall extending through the concentric ring members, but oriented 
substantially normal thereto. The result is a flexible, accordion-like, 
seal system defined by the concentric rings and adapted for flexible 
sealing with cables of various sizes and angles of extension. 
Mounting means providing convenient mounting on cables is provided. 
Generally, the mounting means comprises a slit arrangement provided in 
association with each bore. It is noted that each bore may be occluded by 
a cut-out portion during manufacture and before use. Also, unused bores, 
if any, may be left so occluded. 
Preferably anchor means are provided to facilitate mounting in an 
associated enclosure. For example, mounting ears on the wall member may be 
used to engage a mounting recess in an associated enclosure by means of a 
friction fit. 
Also preferably, the transverse wall members define first and second sets 
of transverse wall members: with all members of the first set of 
transverse wall members being aligned substantially co-planar with one 
another, and in a first plane normal to the ring members; and, with all 
members of the second set of transverse wall members aligned substantially 
co-planar with one another, in a second plane parallel to the first plane, 
but off-set therefrom. This generates a preferred, flexible, sealing 
system. 
As indicated previously, preferred embodiments involve wall members formed 
by first and second members positioned against one another along an 
interface surface. 
Preferably, the first and second members, or right and left members, of 
each end cap are formed in a manner matable with one another, to 
facilitate sealing and assembly. Further, preferably each includes a 
mounting ear or the like, by which an associated enclosure can be engaged. 
As a result of such mounting ears, secure attachment to a casing, in a 
preferred orientation, may be ensured. For preferred embodiments, the 
mounting ear arrangement is such that problems of having the end cap 
members becoming unintentionally dislodged from an association with an 
open, suspended, aerial closure are minimized. 
End cap arrangements according to the present invention may include a 
single aperture or bore therein, for accommodation of a single cable, or 
plurality of apertures or bores therein, for accommodation of a plurality 
of cables. In addition, auxiliary cut-out areas may be provided, to 
selectively accommodate auxiliary wires or the like. That is, a cut-out 
area can be selectively cut open, to provide for extension of a wire 
therethrough. 
Again, in preferred embodiments, each cable bore comprises a series of 
concentric sidewalls or ridges, attached to one another by the central 
transverse wall sections. Means are provided to facilitate removal of 
selected ones of the concentric sidewalls, to permit adjustment to 
different sized cables. 
For preferred embodiments wherein each end cap comprises first and second 
members, a preferred arrangement of engagement is provided so that the 
above described geometry of concentric sidewalls and transverse walls is 
readily achieved. Viewed from either face, the result is an end cap 
arrangement having a bore (or bores) defined by alternating troughs and 
ridges; i.e. having a preferred ridge/trough arrangement. 
As indicated above, for mounting, each bore in each end cap member is 
split, by means of a cut line or slit extending to the bore and 
communicating with an outer edge of the end cap member. This facilitates 
mounting upon a cable or the like, without the need of threading the cable 
through the bore. It will be understood from the detailed descriptions 
that should the end cap member include more than one cable bore, it will 
generally include more than one such cable bore slit. 
Again, each cable member bore extends through the center of a relatively 
soft arrangement of concentrically aligned ridges and troughs, as 
described. This provides a flexible system which can be easily cut-out to 
accommodate cables of various sizes. Further, as a result of the 
flexibility a good sealing effect can be readily achieved. The alternating 
ridges are preferably separated such that adjacent troughs are not of the 
same depth, due to the arrangement of transverse wall sections, which 
define the depth of the troughs. The result is a conduit or bore 
arrangement which, in cross-section, does not have a single substantially 
continuous vertical wall extending throughout. That is, the concentric 
ridges or rings are attached to one another by a discontinuous wall. As a 
result of this, an increase in flexibility to accommodate cables of 
various diameters or alignments is achieved. Further, some cable movement 
during operation is accommodated. 
Preferably, each end cap member bore extends through a portion of the end 
cap comprising a plurality of oppositely directed extensions, which form 
the alternating ridges and troughs. For substantially every extension 
toward an inside portion or face of each end cap member, there are two 
concentric extensions directed to an outside portion of the end cap 
member. The inside extensions, it will be observed from the detailed 
descriptions, generally each comprise an opposite side of each transverse 
wall section or trough between outside extensions. This arrangement 
facilitates an overall system in which the cross-section does not have a 
single continuous vertical wall between concentric rings, as described 
above. Also, it provides for preferred mating with an associated end cap 
member. 
For preferred embodiments, mating end cap members are brought together with 
an inside surface of each end cap member oriented toward an inside surface 
of the associated end cap member. Preferably, ridge members on inside 
surfaces of mating end cap members are oriented such as to mate, or 
interlock, with one another to provide an overall preferred seal 
arrangement, as described in detail below. 
For the preferred embodiment, each end cap member includes cut-out portions 
therein, which can selectively be cut-out to accommodate auxiliary wires 
or the like, for example ground wires associated with a cable splice 
arrangement; the cut-out portions of adjacent cap members generally 
overlapping one another. 
The drawings constitute a part of this specification include exemplary 
embodiments of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms. It 
is to be understood that in some instances relative component sizes, and 
material thicknesses, may be shown exaggerated to facilitate an 
understanding of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
As required, detailed embodiments of the present invention as disclosed 
herein. It is to be understood, however, that the detailed embodiments 
disclosed are merely exemplary of the invention, which may be embodied in 
various forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details 
disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a 
basis for the claims and a representative basis for teaching one skilled 
in the art to variously employ the present invention in virtually any 
appropriately detailed system, structure or arrangement. 
The reference numeral 1, FIG. 1, generally designates a splice closure in 
which an end cap arrangement according to the present invention is 
utilized. It will be understood from the details described herein that an 
end cap arrangement involving features according to the present invention 
may be utilized in a variety of closure systems, splice closure 1 merely 
providing an exemplary environment. Splice closure 1 generally comprises 
casing 2 openable along a seam 3, for access to an interior thereof. 
Generally, casing 2 includes a hinge, out of view, so that a bottom half 4 
can be swung away from a top half 5, when opened. Latches 6 provide for 
secure closure, when desired. 
Generally, casing 2 is preferably formed from a relatively hard material 
such as plastic or metal. Preferably casing 2 is made of plastic, so that: 
it is readily formed; and, is substantially resistant to damage from the 
environment. 
The particular splice closure 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 is an aerial splice 
closure 10. That is, the closure 10, in use, is suspended from an aerial 
cable 11, typically referred to as a messenger wire. 
A variety of means may be utilized to effect mounting upon support cable or 
messenger 11. For the embodiment described and shown, mounting is 
accomplished by a hanger means comprising hanger members 12. Generally, 
for aerial splice closures 10, electrical conduction means is provided so 
that aerial messenger wire 11 can be utilized as a ground, to protect a 
cable splice enclosed within the closure 1. For the embodiment 
illustrated, this is provided by the hanger members 12. 
Still referring to FIG. 1, splice closure 1 is generally cylindrical and 
has first and second ends 14 and 15 respectively. For the embodiment 
shown, ends 14 and 15 are substantially identical, but are directed 
oppositely to one another. There is no absolute requirement, however, that 
they be so, in order to take advantage of certain features of the 
invention. 
For the embodiment shown, an end cap arrangement is positioned in each of 
the ends 14 and 15. Referring to end 14, which is in view, end cap 
arrangement 19 is provided, through which cables 20 and 21 extend. Cables 
20 and 21, it will be understood, extend to a cable splice, not shown, 
enclosed within the splice closure 1. 
End cap arrangement 19, depicted in detail in FIGS. 2 through 11, is 
adapted to accommodate two cables 20 and 21, passing therethrough. It will 
be understood, especially by reference to the alternate embodiment of FIG. 
12, that end cap arrangements according to the present invention can be 
developed to accommodate various other numbers of cable members, including 
a single cable member only, or some other number. 
Still referring to FIG. 1, the purpose of end cap arrangements such end cap 
arrangement 19 is generally to provide an environmental seal about cables, 
such as cables 20 and 21, extending therethrough and into the closure 1. 
Preferred end cap arrangements, such as end cap arrangement 19, according 
to the present invention are not formed integral with the casing 2. That 
is, they are generally removable therefrom and replaceable therein. An 
advantage to this is that good seals may be obtained for cables of various 
shapes, sizes, directions of extension etc. Generally, end cap 
arrangements according to the present invention are formed from a 
relatively soft rubber, or highly rubberized, material; an example of a 
suitable material being a thermoplastic rubber having a durometer between 
64 to 80, Shore A hardness and including a small quantity of a lubricant. 
A specific example is a thermoplastic rubber from Monsanto Chemical Co., 
Akron, Ohio, sold under the trademark Santoprene. 
Such relatively soft materials, when used for the end cap arrangement 19, 
are capable of flexing under stress during use, especially to accommodate 
movement of the cables relative to one another without substantial loss of 
seal. 
The end cap arrangement 19, of a preferred embodiment of the present 
invention, is mounted in casing 2 in such a manner that it is retained in 
position, even when the casing 2 is opened along seam 3. Referring to FIG. 
2, the end cap arrangement 19 is shown positioned in the top half 5 of 
casing 2. The particular end cap arrangement 19 depicted includes an 
anchoring means comprising first and second oppositely positioned and 
extending mounting ears 25 and 26. The mounting ears 25 and 26 are 
received within and behind opposite tabs 27, in the casing 2. As a result 
of being positioned behind tabs 27, the mounting ears 25 and 26 tend to 
retain the end cap arrangement 19 suspended and locked in an appropriate 
position, within the casing 2, even if the casing 2 is opened along seam 
3. For preferred embodiments, the mounting ears 25 and 26 are formed from 
a relatively soft rubber material, and a snap-fit or friction-fit 
arrangement is utilized to accommodate locking. 
Also referring to FIG. 2, it will be understood that end cap arrangement 19 
is snugly received within a recess 30 in a casing 2, to facilitate secure 
mounting without substantial likelihood of end cap arrangement 
longitudinal movement; i.e., movement along a longitudinal axis of casing 
2. This is readily understood by comparison of FIGS. 2 and 2A, FIG. 2A 
showing the end cap arrangement 19, of FIG. 2, not associated with the 
casing 2. 
Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, the end cap 19 is received within the casing 2, 
behind outer lip 31, in a manner which provides a good sealing 
arrangement. The lip 31 results from recess 30. 
For the preferred embodiment, the end cap arrangement 19 includes two 
separable members or sections 39 and 40, mated to one another generally 
along phase line or interface 41, FIG. 2A. Member 39 is referred to herein 
as the "left" member; with face 43 being referred to as the outer face, 
and face 44 the inner face, of the left member 39. Also, generally, member 
40 is referred to herein as the "right" member; with face 46 being the 
outer face, and face 47 being the inner face, of right member 40. The 
terms "left" and "right" when used in reference to member 39 and 40, 
generally refer to orientation during use, i.e. whether the member is on 
the right or left of the other to a user opening the bottom half 4 of the 
closure, and looking at the edges of the members. The terms "inner" and 
"outer" when used with respect to faces of the members 39 and 40, 
generally refer to whether the face is directed toward a mating member, or 
away from a mating member, during use. The terms "inner", "outer", "right" 
and "left" as used herein are meant only to refer to relative positions 
and/or orientations, for convenience, and are not to be understood to be 
in any manner otherwise limiting. 
Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the end cap arrangement 19 of the embodiment 
shown includes a pair of bores 48 and 49. When used, bores 40 and 49 
extend completely through the end cap arrangement 19, for passage of 
cables therethrough. When the end cap arrangement 19 is constructed, 
however, bores 48 and 49 may be blocked or occluded by relatively thin 
cut-out pieces of material. It will be understood, by reference to all 
Figs., that various numbers of bores may be extended through end cap 
arrangements 19 according to the present invention. The embodiment 
depicted in FIGS. 1 through 11 is an arrangement having two bores, since 
two bores are necessary to accommodate the pair of cables 20 and 21 
depicted in FIG. 1. Alternate arrangements may be utilized in various 
applications. 
Advantages to the present invention are derived from this specific nature 
of the bores, 48 and 49. Again, each bore 48 and 49 extends, when used, 
completely through end cap arrangement 19. That is, each half 39 and 40 
includes a pair of bores therein, the bores generally overlapping and 
mating with, in a substantially co-axial manner, an appropriate bore in 
the adjacent section. This will be understood by reference to FIGS. 4 and 
5. 
Referring to FIG. 3, it is noted that bore 50 forms that portion of bore 48 
in member 39 and is generally centrally located in an arrangement 54 of 
concentric rings or sidewalls 55. Referring to FIG. 4, each sidewall 55 is 
defined by a ridge/trough arrangement. It is noted that in FIG. 4 bore 50 
is shown closed, i.e. not yet cut-out for use to extend the cable 
therethrough. 
A variety of numbers of the concentric rings 55 can be cut out of bore 50 
by shears, scissors or the like, to accommodate cables of various sizes. 
Comparing FIG. 4 to FIG. 5, for example, it will be understood that in 
adapting section 39 for use in FIG. 5, the innermost ring 58 of the 
concentric rings 55, FIG. 4, has been substantially completely removed to 
accommodate the relatively large diameter cable 20. In this manner, an end 
cap arrangement 19 according to the present invention can be adjusted in 
size to accommodate various cables. 
Also upon examination of FIGS. 3, 4 and 5, it will be understood that bore 
51 forms that portion of bore 49 in member 39. Bore 51 is similarly 
constructed, and operates in a similar manner, to bore 50, with concentric 
rings 60 formed from a plurality of alternating ridges and troughs, in a 
ridge/trough arrangement. 
A comparison of the cross-sections of bores 50 and 51, in FIGS. 4 and 5, 
leads to a recognition that the two bores 50 and 51 are not shown having 
the same numbers of concentric rings or ridges, i.e., ridges 55 and 60 
respectively. From this it may be readily understood that a variety of 
numbers of concentric ridges can be utilized in defining bores of end cap 
arrangements according to the present invention, the illustrations of 
FIGS. 3, 4 and 5 merely providing examples. Generally, the numbers of 
concentric rings or ridges will be dictated by such concerns as the number 
of cables likely to be passed through the arrangement 19, and the various 
sizes of cables that it is believed the arrangement 19 should be adapted 
to accommodate, in the field. 
As will be understood from the following further descriptions, and the 
drawings, the particular ridge/trough arrangement illustrated for the 
present invention provides substantial advantages in use. Generally, it 
will be desired to have a sufficient number of ring members, such as ring 
members 55 or 60, present so that even if several inner ridges are cut out 
to accommodate a large diameter cable, sufficient ring members are left to 
yield many of the advantages of the preferred ridge/trough arrangement, 
yet to be described. 
Referring to FIG. 5, the innermost ring 64, about bore 50 in use, due to 
the ridge/trough or concentric ring arrangement provides an elongate 
surface 65, to seal over a relatively wide portion of cable 20. Due 
especially to construction from relatively soft material, and in the 
preferred geometry described, surface 65 is, in use, compressed against 
cable 20 to provide a substantial, elongate, relatively tight, centrally 
located, environmental seal. A similar observation is made with the 
respect to innermost ring 67 of bore 51, and the surface 68 thereof. 
Still referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the unique ridge/trough arrangement, 
generally designated at reference numeral 70, will be understood. In 
particular, between each ridge or ring, for example rings 55 associated 
with bore 50, there is a trough 72. The troughs 72 may be viewed as 
divided into two sets of alternating troughs 73 and 74, troughs 73 being 
shallower than troughs 74. Interconnecting the entire arrangement is an 
arrangement of vertical or transverse wall sections 78, generally divided 
into alternating segments 79 and 80. Segments 79 generally define and 
represent the bottoms of shallow troughs 73, and segments 80 generally 
define and represent a bottom wall of deeper troughs 74. The result is an 
overall wall 78 which does not have a continuous planar extension 
throughout. Rather, wall 78 is defined by two longitudinally off-set 
groups of segments 79 and 80; for the preferred embodiment segments 79 
being substantially co-planar with one another and segments 80 being 
substantially co-planar with one another, two planes being off-set but 
both substantially centrally located along a longitudinal extension of 
bore 48. It is noted that both planes extend substantially perpendicular 
or normal to a direction of longitudinal extension of the ring members 55 
or bore 48. 
Advantages from this arrangement will be understood by reference to FIGS. 4 
and 5, and the following. The absence of a single substantially continuous 
vertical (or transverse) wall permits an accordion-like collapse, of rings 
or walls 55, or some of rings 55, toward one another as a cable, for 
example, cable 20, is extended therethrough. Thus, a relatively tight 
pressure seal can be provided in the area of surfaces 65, FIG. 20. 
Further, the absence of a substantially continuous vertical wall, i.e., 
the absence of a wall not provided with off-set sections as illustrated in 
FIGS. 4 and 5, permits accommodation of cable 20, even when the cable 20 
is directed through the bore 50 in a manner of off-set alignment, i.e., 
not substantially perpendicular to end cap section 39. That is, off-set 
extension of, or movement of, cable 20 relative to section 39 in the 
general directions of arrows 85, FIG. 5, can be readily accommodated. 
Numerous advantages result from this. For example, a rocking movement of 
enclosure 1 on messenger wire 11, in high winds or the like, can be 
accommodated since the seal, with the accordion-like walls, or 
discontinuous transverse walls, can adjust. Further, cables such as cable 
20 need not be brought directly into enclosure 1 from a direction 
perfectly perpendicular to end cap 39, in order to achieve a good seal, 
rather some varying angles from perpendicular can be accommodated. Also, 
the arrangement of alternating troughs and ridges facilitates cutting out 
various ridges as necessary to accommodate cables of various sizes, 
compare for example, FIGS. 4 and 5. The central positioning of sections 78 
accommodate flexing in both directions indicated by arrow 85, as well as 
in other directions. 
Referring to FIG. 4, it will be understood that member 40 has a similar 
construction. For example section 40 includes main bore 90 (a portion of 
through bore 48 in the overall arrangement), oriented to be aligned with 
bore 50. Bore 90 is surrounded by concentric rings or ridges 91. The 
ridges 91 are separated by troughs 92, which may be viewed as divided into 
alternating deep troughs 93 and shallow troughs 94, defined by transverse 
wall segments 99 and 100. The result is formation of a discontinuous 
vertical wall 101 of longitudinally off-set segments 99 and 100; segments 
99 forming the bottom or back walls of deep troughs 93, and segments 100 
forming the bottom or back walls of shallow troughs 94. 
The preferred mating relationship for the inside section 40 and the outside 
section 39 will also be understood by reference to FIGS. 4 and 5. In 
particular, the preferred design is such that while the bores 50 and 90 
overlap, the shallow troughs of one side are oriented directed toward the 
deep troughs of the other side, and vise versa. The result is an overall 
arrangement of concentrically aligned sidewalls or ridges attached to one 
another by transverse wall segments; the transverse wall segments 
generally not all being co-planar, but rather being divided into 
alternating sets of segments offset slightly from one another, along a 
longitudinal extension of a central axis for the associated bore. This 
generates a preferred arrangement having the flexibility characteristics 
previously described. In other words, interface 41 preferably extends 
through the discontinuous wall formed by cooperating members 39 and 40. 
Referring still to FIGS. 4 and 5, it will be understood that a second bore 
105 of inside section 40 is similarly constructed. 
Mating of the two pieces to one another, for the embodiment shown, results 
from features illustrated in FIG. 5 that generally concern the concentric 
rings. In particular, the deeper troughs of each end cap member, and the 
bottom walls (or transverse wall segments) associated therewith, can be 
received within spaces formed behind the shallow troughs of the other end 
cap member, and the bottom walls thereof. 
In order to achieve substantial uniformity in strength and thickness of 
ridges, it is noted that sections of the ridges are formed such as to be 
approximately half as thick as other sections. When the members 39 and 40 
mate together, an overall arrangement of ridges or rings having relatively 
uniform thicknesses is provided. This is illustrated in FIG. 5, for 
example, by rings 110 and 111; ring 110 being in member 39 and ring 111 in 
member 40. Each ring 110 and 111 includes an internally directed section, 
112 and 113 respectively. Sections 112 and 113 are approximately half as 
thick as outer sections 115 and 116 of the rings. Section 112 and 113, 
however, are oriented such that during mating, FIG. 4, an overall 
thickness approximately equal to that of sections 115 and 116 is provided. 
It is noted that for the preferred embodiment the rings do not have a 
substantially constant thickness of cross-section throughout their entire 
extension across arrangement 19, but rather each has a slightly wider 
central portion than end portion. This generally facilitates construction 
of each of members 39 and 40 by methods such as molding or the like. 
It is noted that other means may be provided to facilitate mating of the 
pieces. For example, a pin and aperture arrangement is formed in an area 
within the peripheral rim 125 of the arrangement 19, FIG. 7 and 10. 
Specifically, a pin 126 is mounted in member 39, and a recess 127 is 
formed in member 40. The pin 126 is provided with a wide section, 128, to 
facilitate an interference fit with recess 127. 
Other features, of end cap arrangements 19 according to the present 
invention, may be understood by examination of FIGS. 6 through 11. 
Referring to FIG. 6, end cap section 39 is shown in front elevation, i.e. 
surface 43 is viewed. Bores 50 and 51 are readily viewable, each centered 
within its arrangement of concentric rings 55 and 60. Further, mounting 
ear 25 is readily viewable. 
Referring to FIG. 7, a backside or internal surface 44 of section 39 is 
viewable. It is noted that along an outer annular section 130 of the inner 
surface 44, section 39 includes troughs 131. Troughs 131 generally lead to 
a lighter, more flexible, arrangement. Further, surface 44 is shown with a 
plurality of bores 132 therein. Bores 132 do not, in normal use, extend 
completely through section 39. However, they represent relatively thin 
sections of the material from which member 39 is formed. These sections 
can be readily cut-out if desired, to open an auxiliary bore. That is, a 
worker can cut-out one or more of sections 132 to extend auxiliary wires 
therethrough if desired. It will be understood, especially from 
examination of FIGS. 9, 10 and 11, that the mating section 40, of 
arrangement 19, contains similar cut-out sections therein. 
It is noted that in FIG. 8 a side elevational view of the member 
illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7 is shown. 
Referring still to FIGS. 6 and 7, means for mounting section 39 in 
association with an elongate cable will be understood. In particular, line 
133, FIG. 6, represents a cut line or slit extending from an outer 
periphery or edge 137 of section 39 to the center of bore 50. Cut line 
133, continues through an entire thickness of section 39. As a result of 
slit 133, section 39 can be spread open or twisted, to fit around a cable 
member. It is noted that each trough is provided with an end area or wall 
138, in the vicinity of cut line 133. That is, cut line 133 extends 
through a section 139 of continuous material in member 39. In a similar 
manner cut line 140 communicates with bore 51. It will be understood that 
a slit can be associated with any and all bores of a member such as member 
39 that are to be fit around a cable in a snug manner. 
In FIGS. 9, 10 and 11 analogous views of the right member 40 are presented. 
It is noted that the right member 40, for example, includes: mounting ear 
26; bores 90 and 105; cut lines or slits 150 and 151; cut-out auxiliary 
bores 154; annular recesses 155; and similar features to member 39. 
One feature is particularly worthy of note, with respect to the two members 
39 and 40. FIGS. 6 and 9 reveal that the slits of overlapping bores 50 and 
90, i.e. cut lines 133 and 150, do not extend at the same angle and in an 
overlapping relationship to one another. That is, they are non-coplanar 
and do not overlap when the two sections 39 and 40 are mated, FIG. 4. 
Rather, they extend at angles to one another, and only cross over a short 
extension. This is advantageous, as it minimizes the likelihood of there 
forming a leak along the slits which can extend completely through the 
assembly 19, FIG. 4. It will be understood that a similar arrangement may 
be used with respect to slits 138 and 151, of bores 51 and 105 
respectively. 
It will also be understood from the descriptions above that an overall 
arrangement formed in two sections is preferred. First, advantages result 
with respect to the slits, as previously described. That is, there is 
little likelihood of a leak occurring completely throughout the 
arrangement, along the slits, since the slits are divided into separate 
and non-overlapping halves or segments. Further, the ridge arrangement, 
having a vertical (transverse) wall separated into alternating segments 
offset from one another, is relatively readily achieved in an arrangement 
formed from two halves, whereas it might be more difficult to mold in a 
single-piece arrangement. Also, a relatively thick overall arrangement can 
be provided in a manner that can still be readily flexed or twisted (as 
separate halves) about the cut lines, for mounting upon a cable or the 
like. 
It is previously been explained that advantages to end cap arrangements 
according to the present invention may be provided in arrangements other 
than those having two bores extending therethrough. This is exemplified by 
arrangement 200, depicted in an alternate embodiment of FIG. 12. 
Arrangement 200 includes a single central bore 201 with a single slit 202, 
and a plurality of alternating ridges and troughs, or ridge/trough 
arrangement 205, according to the present invention. It is also noted that 
mounting ear 206 is depicted. 
It is to be understood that while detailed descriptions of the preferred 
embodiments have been illustrated and described, the invention is not to 
be limited to the arrangement of parts and specific features herein 
described and shown. Rather, the descriptions are merely of exemplary 
embodiments of the invention, which may be embodied in various forms.