Patent Document

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
   This application is a continuation in part of U.S. Ser. No. 11/095,316 filed Mar. 31, 2005, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,097,500, which is a continuation in part of U.S. Ser. No. 10/876,386 filed Jun. 25, 2004, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,186,127. 

   FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
   Embodiments of the invention relate generally to data transmission system components, and more particularly to a nut seal assembly for use with a connector of a coaxial cable system component for sealing a threaded port connection, and to a coaxial cable system component incorporating the seal assembly. 
   BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
   Community antenna television (CATV) systems and many broadband data transmission systems rely on a network of coaxial cables to carry a wide range of radio frequency (RF) transmissions with low amounts of loss and distortion. A covering of plastic or rubber adequately seals an uncut length of coaxial cable from environmental elements such as water, salt, oil, dirt, etc. However, the cable must attach to other cables, components and/or to equipment (e.g., taps, filters, splitters and terminators) generally having threaded ports (hereinafter, “ports”) for distributing or otherwise utilizing the signals carried by the coaxial cable. A service technician or other operator must frequently cut and prepare the end of a length of coaxial cable, attach the cable to a coaxial cable connector, or a connector incorporated in a coaxial cable system component, and install the connector on a threaded port. This is typically done in the field. Environmentally exposed (usually threaded) parts of the components and ports are susceptible to corrosion and contamination from environmental elements and other sources, as the connections are typically located outdoors, at taps on telephone polls, on customer premises, or in underground vaults. These environmental elements eventually corrode the electrical connections located in the connector and between the connector and mating components. The resulting corrosion reduces the efficiency of the affected connection, which reduces the signal quality of the RF transmission through the connector. Corrosion in the immediate vicinity of the connector-port connection is often the source of service attention, resulting in high maintenance costs. 
   Numerous methods and devices have been used to improve the moisture and corrosion resistance of connectors and connections. These include, for example, wrapping the connector with electrical tape, enclosing the connector within a flexible boot which is slid over the connector from the cable, applying a shrink wrapping to the connector, coating the connector with plastic or rubber cement, and employing tubular grommets of the type discussed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,674,818 (McMills, et al.) and in U.S. Pat. No. 4,869,679 (Szegda), for example. 
   Although these methods work, more or less, if properly executed, they all require a particular combination of skill, patience, and attention to detail on the part of the technician or operator. For instance, it may be difficult to apply electrical tape to an assembled connection when the connection is located in a small, enclosed area. Shrink wrapping may be an improvement under certain conditions, but shrink wrap application typically requires applied heat or chemicals, which may be unavailable or dangerous. Rubber-based cements eliminate the need for heat, but the connection must be clean and the cement applied somewhat uniformly. These otherwise attainable conditions may be complicated by cold temperatures, confined or dirty locations, etc. Operators may require additional training and vigilance to seal coaxial cable connections using rubber grommets or seals. An operator must first choose the appropriate seal for the application and then remember to place the seal onto one of the connective members prior to assembling the connection. Certain rubber seal designs seal only through radial compression. These seals must be tight enough to collapse onto or around the mating parts. Because there may be several diameters over which the seal must extend, the seal is likely to be very tight on at least one of the diameters. High friction caused by the tight seal may lead an operator to believe that the assembled connection is completely tightened when it actually remains loose. A loose connection may not efficiently transfer a quality RF signal causing problems similar to corrosion. 
   Other seal designs require axial compression generated between the connector nut and an opposing surface of the port. An appropriate length seal that sufficiently spans the distance between the nut and the opposing surface, without being too long, must be selected. If the seal is too long, the seal may prevent complete assembly of the connector or component. If the seal is too short, moisture freely passes. The selection is made more complicated because port lengths may vary among different manufacturers. 
   In view of the aforementioned shortcomings and others known by those skilled in the art, the inventor has recognized a need for a seal and a sealing connector that addresses these shortcomings and provides other advantages and efficiencies. 
   SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
   Embodiments of the invention are directed to a seal assembly and to various coaxial cable system components, including but not limited to connectors, filters, and terminators, which incorporate a seal assembly in accordance with the described embodiments. 
   An embodiment of the invention is directed to a seal assembly for use with a connector. An intended function of the seal assembly is to prevent the ingress of moisture and contaminants, and the detrimental effects of environmental changes in pressure and temperature on a coaxial cable connection. In an exemplary embodiment, a seal assembly includes a nut component and a bellows-type elastomer seal having an elastically deformable tubular body attached to the nut component, wherein the seal and nut form an integrated seal assembly. In an aspect, the nut component has an interior surface at least a portion of which is threaded, a connector-grasping portion, and a seal-grasping surface portion. The seal-grasping surface portion may be on either the interior or exterior surface of the nut component. In an aspect, at least part of the seal-grasping portion is a smooth surface or a roughened surface suitable to frictionally engage a rear sealing surface of the seal. In an aspect, at least part of the seal-grasping portion is a surface suitable to adhesively engage the rear sealing surface of the seal. In an alternative embodiment, the nut component further includes a nut-turning surface portion along an external perimeter surface of the nut component. In an aspect, the nut-turning surface portion can have at least two flat surface regions suitable for engagement with the jaws of a tool. In an aspect, the nut-turning surface portion is a knurled surface, which lends itself to manual manipulation. 
   According to an aspect, the seal consists of an elastically deformable tubular body having a forward sealing surface, a rear sealing portion including an sealing surface that integrally engages the nut component, and an integral joint-section intermediate an anterior end and a posterior end of the tubular body, wherein, upon axial compression of the tubular body, the tubular body is adapted to expand radially at the integral joint-section. According to various aspects, the seal is made of a compression molded, elastomer material. In one aspect, the material is a silicone rubber material. In another aspect, the material is a propylene material. Other suitable elastomers are available. 
   In an alternative embodiment, the seal assembly further comprises a seal ring having an inner surface and an outer surface, wherein the inner surface has a diameter such that the seal ring is press-fit against an exterior surface of the rear sealing portion of the seal. In an aspect, the seal ring has an outwardly extending flange along a posterior perimeter of the seal ring. In an aspect, the outer surface of the seal ring is knurled. 
   Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a connector for connecting a coaxial cable to a port. According to an exemplary embodiment, the connector includes a tubular connector body, means for attaching the first end of the connector body to the coaxial cable, and a seal assembly. In an aspect, the seal assembly is the seal assembly in its various aspects described herein above and in the detailed description that follows. An exemplary connector is an F-connector. 
   A further embodiment of the invention is directed toward a seal assembly for use with a termination device to seal and terminate the unused output ports. Termination devices are used by to match the impedance of the coaxial cables, and to prevent theft of the cable signal by non-subscribers who could otherwise simply attach a coaxial cable themselves to any vacant output port. An example of such a termination device is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,491,546 to Perry, the disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein. According to an exemplary embodiment, the invention comprises a housing having internal threads at one end for connection to a port and a seal assembly. The termination device may also include a resistor within the housing. The housing at the threaded end of the termination device includes a seal-grasping, cylindrical surface for the mating of the seal. In an aspect, the seal assembly is, in its various aspects, described herein above and in the detailed description that follows. 
   An alternative embodiment of the invention is directed toward a seal assembly for a tamper-resistant termination device. The tamper-resistant termination device includes a housing, an outer shell and a seal assembly. One end of the housing includes internal threads for connection to the unused threaded port and a seal-grasping, cylindrical outer surface. The outer shell surrounds and rotates independently about the housing. One end of the outer shell includes an opening for the insertion of a specialized tool for mating with the housing to selectively install or remove the housing from the threaded port. In an aspect, the baffle-type elastomer seal described above is seated in a groove on the cylindrical outer surface of the housing. The outer shell at least partial covers the end of the seal and assists in retaining the seal in place. 
   Yet another embodiment of the invention is directed toward a seal assembly for use with a filter or trap. Filters are used in coaxial cable systems for selectively removing or attenuating signals at particular frequencies so that the selected signals will not reach a subscriber&#39;s location in a usable form. An example of such a filter or trap for use in a cable system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,278,525 to Palinkas, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. According an exemplary embodiment, the invention comprises a filter housing which contains the filtering components, male and female connectors at respective ends of the housing, and a seal assembly. In an aspect, the seal assembly is the seal assembly in its various aspects described herein above and in the detailed description that follows. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     For a further understanding of these and objects of the invention, reference will be made to the following detailed description of the invention which is to be read in connection with the accompanying drawing, where: 
       FIGS. 1A , B, C represent a specification drawing of a seal according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; 
       FIG. 2  is an enlarged partially sectioned perspective view of a seal assembly portion of the connector shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 3  is an exploded perspective view of a connector according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention; 
       FIG. 4  is an exploded perspective view of a nut seal assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention; 
       FIG. 5  is an exploded perspective view of a nut seal assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention; 
       FIG. 6  is a partially sectioned perspective view of a coaxial cable connector in accordance with an exemplary embodiment the invention; 
       FIG. 7  is a perspective assembled view of the connector incorporating the nut seal assembly shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
       FIG. 8  is a perspective assembled view of the connector incorporating the nut seal assembly shown in  FIG. 4 ; 
       FIG. 9  is a perspective assembled view of the connector incorporating the nut seal assembly shown in  FIG. 5 ; 
       FIG. 10A  is a plan view of an exemplary connector prior to engagement with an illustrative externally threaded port; 
       FIG. 10B  is a partially sectioned plan view of the exemplary connector in  FIG. 10A  upon complete engagement with the illustrative externally threaded port; 
       FIG. 11A  is a plan view of an exemplary connector prior to engagement with a different illustrative externally threaded port; 
       FIG. 11B  is a partially sectioned plan view of the exemplary connector in  FIG. 11A  upon complete engagement with the illustrative externally threaded port; 
       FIG. 12A  is a plan view of an exemplary connector prior to engagement with a different illustrative externally threaded port; and 
       FIG. 12B  is a partially sectioned plan view of the exemplary connector in  FIG. 12A  upon complete engagement with the illustrative externally threaded port. 
       FIG. 13  is a partial cross sectional view of a modified embodiment of a seal assembly portion of the invention; 
       FIG. 14  is a partially sectioned perspective view of a modified alternative embodiment of a seal assembly portion of the invention; 
       FIG. 15  is a partially sectioned perspective view of a second modified embodiment of a seal assembly portion of the invention; 
       FIG. 16  is a partial cross sectional view of a second modified embodiment of a seal assembly portion of the invention. 
       FIG. 17  is a partially cross sectioned perspective view of a termination device incorporating the nut seal assembly of the present invention. 
       FIG. 18  is a partially cross sectioned perspective view of a tamper-resistant termination device incorporating the nut seal assembly of the present invention. 
       FIG. 19  is a partially cross-sectioned perspective view of a alternative embodiment of a tamper-resistant termination device incorporating the nut seal assembly of the present invention. 
       FIG. 20  is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a filter housing incorporating the nut seal assembly of the present invention. 
       FIG. 21  is a partially cross-sectioned perspective view of the filter housing of  FIG. 20 . 
       FIG. 22  is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a filter housing including at least one textured surface that is located adjacent to an outer sleeve. 
       FIG. 23  is a partially cross-sectioned perspective view of the second embodiment of a filter housing of  FIG. 22  including the textured surfaces and the outer sleeve. 
       FIG. 24  is an exploded perspective view of contents of the filter housing of  FIGS. 22-23 . 
       FIG. 25  is a partially cross-sectioned perspective view of the second embodiment of a filter housing of  FIGS. 22-24  that excludes the outer sleeve. 
       FIG. 26A  is a partially cross sectioned perspective view of an embodiment of the nut seal assembly including an internal shoulder. 
       FIG. 26B  is a partially cross sectioned exploded perspective view of the embodiment of the nut seal assembly of  FIG. 26A . 
       FIG. 27A  is a partially cross sectioned perspective view of an embodiment of the nut seal assembly including a compression ring located between a nut body and a seal. 
       FIG. 27B  is a partially cross sectioned exploded perspective view of the embodiment of the nut seal assembly of  FIG. 27A . 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
   Embodiments of the invention are directed to a seal assembly for use with a coaxial cable system component and to a coaxial cable system component including a seal assembly in accordance with the described embodiments. Throughout the description, like reference numerals will refer to like parts in the various drawing figures. 
   For ease of description, the coaxial cable system components such as connectors, termination devices, filters and the like, referred to and illustrated herein will be of a type and form suited for connecting a coaxial cable or component, used for CATV or other data transmission, to an externally threaded port having a ⅜ inch -32 UNEF  2 A thread. Those skilled in the art will appreciate, however, that many system components include a rotatable, internally threaded nut that attaches the component to a typical externally threaded port, the specific size, shape and component details may vary in ways that do not impact the invention per se, and which are not part of the invention per se. Likewise, the externally threaded portion of the port may vary in dimension (diameter and length) and configuration. For example, a port may be referred to as a “short” port where the connecting portion has a length of about 0.325 inches. A “long” port may have a connecting length of about 0.500 inches. All of the connecting portion of the port may be threaded, or there may be an unthreaded shoulder immediately adjacent the threaded portion, for example. In all cases, the component and port must cooperatively engage. According to the embodiments of the present invention, a sealing relationship is provided for the otherwise exposed region between the component connector and the externally threaded portion of the port. 
   A preferred embodiment of the invention is directed to a seal assembly  90  for use with a coaxial connector, exemplary aspects of which are illustrated in  FIGS. 2-5 . As shown, the coaxial connector  10  is disposed around an axis of rotation  81  that intersects a cavity  82  formed by the seal  60 . In a general aspect  90 - 1  illustrated in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , the seal assembly  90  includes a seal  60  and a nut component  40 . The seal and the nut component form an integral assembly as illustrated in  FIG. 2 . 
   An exemplary seal  60  is illustrated in  FIGS. 1A ,  1 B,  1 C, and  FIG. 2 . The seal  60  has a generally tubular body that is elastically deformable by nature of its material characteristics and design. In general, the seal  60  is a one-piece element made of a compression molded, elastomer material having suitable chemical resistance and material stability (i.e., elasticity) over a temperature range between about −40° C. to +40° C. A typical material can be, for example, silicone rubber. Alternatively, the material may be propylene, a typical O-ring material. Other materials known in the art may also be suitable. The interested reader is referred to http://www.applerubber.com for an exemplary listing of potentially suitable seal materials. 
   The body of seal  60  has an anterior end  58  and a posterior end  59 , the anterior end being a free end for ultimate engagement with a port, while the posterior end is for ultimate connection to the nut component  40  of the seal assembly. The seal has a forward sealing surface  68 , a rear sealing portion  61  including an interior sealing surface  62 , also referred to as a nut grasping surface  62 , that integrally engages the nut component (described in greater detail below), and an intermediate section  65  intermediate the anterior end  58  and the posterior end  59  of the tubular body. The forward sealing surface  68  at the anterior end of the seal  60  may include annular facets  68   a ,  68   b  and  68   c  to assist in forming a seal with the port. 
   Alternatively, forward sealing surface  68  may be a continuous rounded annular surface that forms effective seals through the elastic deformation of the internal surface and end of the seal compressed against the port. The integral joint-section includes a portion of the length of the seal which is relatively thinner in radial cross-section to encourage an outward expansion or bowing of the seal upon its axial compression. In the exemplary embodiment, the nut grasping surface includes an interior sealing surface  62  which forms an annular surface on the inside of the tubular body, and an internal shoulder  67  of the tubular body adjacent the posterior end  59 , as illustrated in  FIG. 11B . 
   In its intended use, compressive axial force may be applied against one or both ends of the seal depending upon the length of the port intended to be sealed. The force will act to axially compress the seal whereupon it will expand radially in the vicinity of the intermediate section  65 . In an aspect, the intermediate section  65  is located axially asymmetrically intermediate the anterior end  58  and the posterior end  59  of the tubular body, and adjacent an anterior end  62 ′ of the interior sealing surface  62 , as illustrated. 
   In a preferred embodiment, the tubular body has an interior diameter, D 2 , at the intermediate section  65  equal to about 0.44 inches in an uncompressed state. The tubular body has a length, L, from the anterior end  58  to the posterior end  59  of about 0.36 inches in an uncompressed state. However, it is contemplated that the joint-section  65  can be designed to be inserted anywhere between the interior sealing surface  62  and anterior end  58 . The seal is designed to prevent the ingress of corrosive elements when the seal is used for its intended function. 
   The nut component  40  of the seal assembly  90 , illustrated by example in  FIGS. 2 and 3 , has an interior surface, at least a portion  41  of which is threaded, a connector-grasping portion  42 , and an exterior surface  45  including a seal-grasping surface portion  47 . In an aspect, the seal-grasping surface  47  can be a flat, smooth surface or a flat, roughened surface suitable to frictionally and/or adhesively engage the interior sealing surface  62  of the seal  60 . In an exemplary aspect, the seal-grasping surface  47  may also contain a ridge  48  that together with the seal grasping surface forms a groove or shoulder that is suitably sized and shaped to correspondingly engage the internal shoulder  67  of the seal adjacent the interior sealing surface  62  in a locking-type interference fit between the nut component  40  and the seal  60  as illustrated in  FIG. 2 . 
   The exemplary nut component  40  further includes a nut-turning surface portion  46  on surface  45 . In the exemplary aspect shown in  FIG. 3 , the nut-turning surface portion  46  has at least two flat surface regions that allow engagement with the surfaces of a tool such as a wrench. Typically, the nut-turning surface in this aspect will be hexagonal. Alternatively, the nut turning surface may be a knurled surface to facilitate hand-turning of the nut component. Upon engagement of the seal with the nut component, a posterior sealing surface  64  of the seal abuts a side surface  43 , also referred to as an end surface  43 , of the nut as shown in  FIG. 2  to form a sealing relationship in that region. 
   In an exemplary aspect, the connector-grasping portion  42  of the nut component  40  is an internally-projecting shoulder that engages a flange  25  on the connector post  23  (described below) in such a manner that the nut component (likewise, the seal assembly  90 ) can be freely rotated as it is held in place as part of the connector. 
   An additional exemplary aspect  90 - 2  of the seal assembly is illustrated in  FIG. 4 . The seal assembly of the invention may further include a seal ring  180  having an inner surface  182  and an outer surface  184 . The inner surface has a diameter such that the seal ring is slid over the nut component and creates a press-fit against an exterior rear surface portion  61  of the seal that is radially adjacent the interior sealing surface  62  (See  FIG. 2 ). This press fit over the posterior end  59  of the seal  60  enhances the sealing characteristics between the nut  40  and the interior  62  and posterior  64  sealing surfaces (See  FIG. 2 ). In an exemplary aspect, the outer surface  184  of the seal ring  180  is knurled to facilitate hand-turning of the seal assembly. Flat portions  46  of the nut turning surface may remain exposed to additionally facilitate the use of a tool for turning the assembly. 
   A further exemplary aspect  90 - 3  of the seal assembly is illustrated in  FIG. 5 . A seal ring  180 ′ has a flange  183  extending outwardly from a posterior perimeter of the seal ring. As in the case of seal ring  180  described above, an internal surface  182  of seal ring  180 ′ creates a press-fit against the exterior surface portion  61  of the seal that is radially adjacent the interior sealing surface  62 . The flange  183  provides a surface that facilitates pushing the seal ring into its assembled position. As described above, flat portions  46  of the nut turning surface may remain exposed to additionally facilitate the use of a tool for turning the assembly. 
   Another embodiment of the invention is directed to a connector  10  as shown, for example, in  FIGS. 3 and 6 , for connecting a coaxial cable to a port  100 ,  110  and  120  as shown for illustration in  FIGS. 10-12  respectively. The exemplary connector  10 , illustrated in exploded view in  FIG. 3 , includes a tubular connector body  20  having first and second ends  21  and  22 , respectively. The connector body  20  accepts and retains a coaxial cable  12  as shown in  FIG. 6 , by any one of many methods well known in the art. Well known means for attaching a connector body to the cable include hexagonal, circular or conical crimping and the radial compression of components caused by the axial or threaded rotational movement of tapered or stepped sleeves or rings. The exemplary connector  10  includes a connector post  23  (See  FIG. 3 ) that functions, as is well known in the art, to electrically engage the outer conductor of the coaxial cable. Furthermore, the post  23  has a flange  25 , which upon assembly with the connector body  20  provides a slot  26  (See  FIG. 6 ) between the flange and the second end  22  of the body  20 . Connector  10  further includes a nut component such as nut component  40  described above. The connector grasping shoulder  42  of the nut component  40  shown in  FIG. 2  engages the slot  26 , allowing the nut component to be an integral, rotatable part of the connector upon assembly. In the exemplary connector  10 , a compression ring  24  slides over the connector body  20  to secure the integrity of the connector assembly. As described previously, seal  60  and nut component  40  form integral seal assembly  90  (See  FIG. 2 ), which are part of connector  10 . A cut-away view of exemplary connector  10  is shown in  FIG. 6  and, as assembled, as connector  10 - 1  in  FIG. 7 . Alternative exemplary connectors  10 - 2 ,  10 - 3 , incorporating respective seal assemblies  90 - 2 ,  90 - 3  (See  FIGS. 4-5  respectively), are illustrated in  FIGS. 8 and 9 , respectively. 
   Exemplary illustrations of the intended use and configurations of connector  10  are shown in  FIGS. 10-12 . Referring to  FIG. 10A , connector  10 - 1  is positioned in axial alignment with a “short” externally threaded port  100 . Short port  100  has a length of external threads  102  extending from a terminal end  108  to an enlarged shoulder  106 . The length of the external threads  102  is shorter than the length, L, of seal  60  (i.e., seal  60  in uncompressed state). 
   Referring to  FIG. 10B , connector  10 - 1  and short port  100  are shown “connected”. Seal  60  is axially compressed between nut  40  and enlarged shoulder  106  of port  100 . Posterior sealing surface  64  is axially compressed against side surface  43  of nut  40  and the end face  68   a  (See  FIG. 2 ) of forward sealing surface  68  is axially compressed against enlarged shoulder  106  thus preventing ingress of environmental elements between nut  40  and enlarged shoulder  106  of the port  100 . 
   Referring to  FIG. 11A , connector  10 - 1  is positioned in axial alignment with a “long” externally threaded port  110 . Long port  110  is characterized by having a length of external threads  112  extending from a terminal end  114  of port  110  to an unthreaded diameter  116  that is approximately equal to the major diameter of external threads  112 . Unthreaded portion  116  then extends from external threads  112  to an enlarged shoulder  118 . The length of external threads  112  in addition to unthreaded portion  116  is longer than the length that seal  60  extends outward from side surface  43  when seal  60  is in an uncompressed state. 
   Connector  10 - 1  and long port  110  are shown connected in  FIG. 11B . Seal  60  is not axially compressed between nut  40  and enlarged shoulder  118 . Rather, internal sealing surface  62  is radially compressed against the seal grasping surface  47  of nut  40  and the interior portion (annular facets)  68   b  and  68   c  (See  FIGS. 1B ) of forward sealing surface  68  are radially compressed against unthreaded portion  116 , preventing the ingress of environmental elements between nut  40  and unthreaded portion  116  of port  110 . The radial compression of both internal sealing surface  62  against seal grasping surface  47  of nut  40  and forward sealing surface  68  against unthreaded portion  116  is created by an interference fit between the sealing surfaces and their respective mating surfaces. 
     FIG. 12A  shows connector  10 - 1  positioned in axial alignment with an alternate externally threaded port  120 . The portions  126 ,  122  of alternate port  120  are similar to those of long port  110  ( FIG. 11 ), however, the diameter of the unthreaded portion  126  is larger than the major diameter of the external threads  122 . 
   As shown in  FIG. 12B , connector  10 - 1  is connected to alternate port  120 . Internal sealing surface  62  is radially compressed against seal grasping surface  47  (See  FIG. 5 ) of nut  40  and forward sealing surface  68  is radially compressed against unthreaded portion  126 , preventing the ingress of environmental elements between nut  40  and unthreaded portion  126 . The radial compression of both the internal sealing surface  62  against seal grasping surface  47  of nut  40  and forward sealing surface  68  against unthreaded portion  126  is created by an interference fit between the sealing surfaces and their respective mating surfaces. 
   A modified embodiment of the seal assembly  90 ′ is illustrated in  FIGS. 13 and 14 . The materials function and operation of the modified embodiment of the seal assembly is substantially similar to the exemplary embodiment described above with the exception that the posterior portion of the seal  60 ′ attaches to the interior surface rather than the exterior surface of the nut component  40 ′. The modified embodiment of the seal also has a generally tubular body that is elastically deformable by nature of its material characteristics and design. The tubular body of seal  60 ′ has an anterior end  58  and a posterior end  59 , the anterior end being a free end for ultimate engagement with a port, while the posterior end is for ultimate connection to the nut component  40 ′ of the alternative seal assembly. The seal has a forward sealing surface  68  that may either have facets or a continuously curved surface, a rear sealing portion  61  including an exterior sealing surface  62 ′ that integrally engages the nut component (described in greater detail below), and an intermediate section  65  intermediate the anterior end  58  and the posterior end  59  of the tubular body. The sealing surface  62 ′ is an annular surface on the exterior of the tubular body. The seal  60 ′ may also have a ridge  67 ′ at the posterior end  59  which together with the nut grasping surface  62 ′ locks in an interference fit with a corresponding shoulder  48  on the nut component  40 ′, as illustrated. In its intended use, compressive axial force may be applied against one or both ends of the seal depending upon the length of the port intended to be sealed. The force will act to axially compress the seal whereupon it will expand radially in the vicinity of the intermediate section  65 . 
   The nut component  40 ′ of the modified seal assembly  90 ′ (See  FIG. 13 ) and connector  10 ′ (See  FIG. 14 ), illustrated by example in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , has an interior surface, at least a portion  41  of which is threaded, a connector-grasping portion  42 , and an interior surface including a seal-grasping surface portion  47 . In an aspect, the seal-grasping surface  47  can be a flat, smooth surface or a flat, roughened surface suitable to frictionally and/or adhesively engage the interior sealing surface  62 ′ of the seal  60 ′. In an aspect, the seal-grasping surface  47  contains a shoulder  48  that is suitably sized and shaped to engage the ridge  67  of the posterior end  59  of the seal  60 ′ sealing surface groove  62 ′ in a locking-type interference fit as illustrated in  FIGS. 13 and 14 . 
   The modified nut component  40 ′ further includes nut-turning surface portions  46  on surface  45 . Upon engagement of the seal with the nut component, a sealing surface  64 ′ of the seal abuts a end surface  43 ′ of the nut as shown in  FIGS. 13 and 14  to form a sealing relationship in that region. This modified embodiment of the seal assembly may be substituted for the preferred seal assembly of  FIGS. 4 through 9  in the exemplary embodiments incorporating connectors and seal rings as described above. 
   A second modified embodiment of the seal assembly is illustrated in  FIGS. 15 and 16 . The seal-grasping surface  47  similarly can be a flat, smooth surface or a flat, roughened surface suitable to frictionally and/or adhesively engage the interior sealing surface of the seal  60 . In this modified embodiment, however, the forward ridge that formed the interlocking interference fit between corresponding shoulders  48  and  67  (See  FIG. 13 ) of the nut and the seal, respectively, have been eliminated. Rather, the nut seal is retained on the seal grasping surface due to either the compressive force of the elastomer material of the seal member on the seal grasping surface  47  or the frictional forces between these surfaces, alone or in conjunction with an adhesive bond between the seal grasping surface  47  of the nut  40  and the nut grasping surface  62  of the seal  60 . In all other aspects, this second modified embodiment of the nut seal assembly and connectors incorporating the same operate in the same manner as exemplary embodiment of the assembly discussed above and depicted in  FIGS. 1 through 12 . 
   A modified embodiment of the invention incorporated in a termination device or terminator is depicted in  FIG. 17 . The terminator  130  includes a housing  30  having a first end  32  and a second end  33 , and a seal assembly  90 - 2 . The first end  32  of the housing includes a bore defining an inner surface. A portion of the inner surface has interior threads  31  for engaging the threads of an unused cable port. The inner surface may also include a resistor chamber  35  for holding a resistor  36 . The resistor matches the impedance of a coaxial cable to maintain the integrity of the signal carried to subscribers. The second end  33  of the housing may have an external surface including two or more flats  39 , also referred to as flat surfaces, for the engagement of a tool such as a wrench. The external surface may be hexagonal in shape. 
   The first end of the housing also an exterior surface including a seal-grasping surface portion  37 . In an aspect, the seal-grasping surface  37  can be a flat, smooth surface or a flat, roughened surface suitable to frictionally and/or adhesively engage the interior sealing surface  62  of the seal  60 . In an exemplary aspect, the seal-grasping surface  37  may also contain a ridge  38  that together with the seal grasping surface forms a groove or shoulder that is suitably sized and shaped to correspondingly engage the internal shoulder  67  of the seal adjacent the interior sealing surface  62  in a locking-type interference fit between the terminator housing  30  and the seal  60  as illustrated in  FIG. 17 . 
   In all aspects, the seal  60  is substantially as the exemplary seal described above and as illustrated in  FIGS. 1A ,  1 B,  1 C, and  FIG. 2 . The seal  60  has a generally tubular body that is elastically deformable by nature of its material characteristics and design. The seal has a forward sealing surface  68 , a rear sealing portion  61  including an interior sealing surface  62  that integrally engages either the cylindrical outer surface of the housing  37  or the ridge  38 , and an intermediate section  65  intermediate the anterior end  58  and the posterior end  59  of the tubular body. 
   The seal assembly of the invention incorporated in a termination device may further include a seal ring  180  having an inner surface  182  and an outer surface  184 . In all aspects, the seal ring  180  is as described above and as illustrated in  FIG. 4 . The seal ring inner surface has a diameter such that the seal ring is slid over the terminator housing  30  and creates a press-fit against an exterior rear surface portion  61  of the seal that is radially adjacent the interior sealing surface  62 . This press fit over the posterior end  59  of the seal  60  enhances the sealing characteristics between the housing  30  and the interior  62  and posterior  64  sealing surfaces. In an exemplary aspect, the outer surface  184  of the seal ring  180  is knurled to facilitate hand-turning of the seal assembly. In all other aspects, this embodiment of the seal assembly incorporated on the terminator operates in the same manner as exemplary embodiment of the assembly discussed above and depicted in  FIGS. 1 through 12 . 
   A further modified embodiment of the invention incorporated in a tamper-resistant termination device is depicted in  FIG. 18 . The terminator  130   a  includes a generally cylindrical housing  30   a  having a first end  32  and a second end  33 , an outer shell  70  (See  FIG. 5 ) with a first end  72  and a second end  73 , and a seal assembly  90 - 2 . The first end  32  of the housing includes a bore defining an inner surface. A portion of the inner surface has interior threads  31  for engaging the threads of an unused cable port. The outer shell  70  rotates independently of the housing  30  and has an opening  74  at the second end for the insertion of a specialized tool (not shown) for mating with a complementary structure  75  on the second end of the housing. Once the tool is properly engaged with the housing, rotation of the tool causes rotation of the housing  30  to selectively install or remove the housing from the threaded port. In all aspects, the seal  60  is substantially the exemplary seal described above and as illustrated in  FIGS. 1A ,  1 B,  1 C, and  FIG. 2 . 
   The first end  72  of the shell also an exterior surface including a seal-grasping, cylindrical surface portion  77 . In an aspect, the seal-grasping surface  77  can be a flat, smooth surface or a flat, roughened surface suitable to frictionally and/or adhesively engage the interior sealing surface  62  of the seal  60 . In an exemplary aspect, the seal-grasping surface  77  may also contain a ridge  78  that together with the seal grasping surface forms a groove or shoulder that is suitably sized and shaped to correspondingly engage the internal shoulder  67  of the seal adjacent the interior sealing surface  62  in a locking-type interference fit between the outer shell  70  and the seal  60  as illustrated in  FIG. 18 . 
   The seal assembly of the invention incorporated in the tamper resistant termination device may further include a seal ring  180  having an inner surface  182  and an outer surface  184 . In all aspects, the seal ring  180  is as described above and as illustrated in  FIG. 4 . The seal ring inner surface has a diameter such that the seal ring is slid over the outer shell  70  and creates a press-fit against an exterior rear surface portion  61  of the seal that is radially adjacent the interior sealing surface  62 . This press fit over the posterior end  59  of the seal  60  enhances the sealing characteristics between the outer shell  70  and the interior  62  and posterior  64  sealing surfaces. In all other aspects, this embodiment of the seal incorporated on the tamper-resistant terminator operates in the same manner as the exemplary embodiment of the seal discussed above and depicted in  FIGS. 1 through 12 . 
   A still further modified embodiment of the invention incorporated in another tamper-resistant termination device is depicted in  FIG. 19 . The terminator  130   b  is in many features similar to the termination device  130   a  of  FIG. 18 . The second end  73  of the outer shell also includes external threads  76  for the mating of a coaxial cable connector (not shown). Such a termination device may be positioned between a previously used output port and the corresponding drop line when the service to that particular subscriber is suspended without requiring that the full wiring to that subscriber be removed. Service can be restored simply by removing the interposed termination device and reconnecting the cable to the port. 
   In lieu of the seal ring, the first end  72  of the outer shell  70  has an inner surface  78  and an outer surface  79 . The inner surface  78  of the first end of the outer shell is  70  configured to be radially above the seal-grasping, cylindrical surface  37  of the terminator housing  30   b  and creates a press-fit against an exterior rear surface portion  61  of the seal that is radially adjacent the interior sealing surface  62 . In other all aspects, this embodiment of the seal  60  incorporated on the tamper-resistant terminator  130   b  operates in the same manner as exemplary embodiment of the seal assembly discussed above and depicted in  FIG. 18 . 
   A modified embodiment of the invention incorporated in a filter or trap  140  is depicted in  FIGS. 20 and 21 . The filter includes a generally cylindrical housing  145  having a first end  142  including an internally threaded connector  141  and a second end  143  including an externally threaded connector  14 , and a seal assembly  90 - 3  surrounding the internally threaded connector  141  at the first end of the filter housing. The exterior surface of the internally threaded connector includes a seal-grasping surface portion  147 . In an aspect, the seal-grasping surface  147  can be a flat, smooth surface or a flat, roughened surface suitable to frictionally and/or adhesively engage the interior sealing surface  62  of the seal  60 . In an exemplary aspect, the seal-grasping surface  147  may also contain a ridge  148  that together with the seal grasping surface forms a groove or shoulder that is suitably sized and shaped to correspondingly engage the internal shoulder  67  of the seal adjacent the interior sealing surface  62  in a locking-type interference fit between the connector  141  and the seal  60  as illustrated in  FIGS. 2 ,  17  and  18 . 
   In all aspects, the seal  60  is substantially the exemplary seal described above and as illustrated in  FIGS. 1A ,  1 B,  1 C, and  FIG. 2 . The seal  60  has a generally tubular body that is elastically deformable by nature of its material characteristics and design. The seal has a forward sealing surface  68 , a rear sealing portion  61  including an interior sealing surface  62  that integrally engages either the seal-grasping surface  147  of the connector  141  or the ridge  148 , and an intermediate section  65  intermediate the anterior end  58  and the posterior end  59  (See  FIG. 16 ) of the tubular body. 
   The seal assembly of the invention incorporated in a filter housing may further include a seal ring  180 ′ having an inner surface  182  and an outer surface  184  (See  FIG. 17 ). In all aspects, the seal ring  180 ′ is as described above and as illustrated in  FIG. 5 . The seal ring inner surface has a diameter such that the seal ring  180 ′ is slid over the internally threaded connector and creates a press-fit against an exterior rear surface portion  61  of the seal that is radially adjacent the interior sealing surface  62 . This press fit over the posterior end  59  (See  FIG. 16 ) of the seal  60  enhances the sealing characteristics between the connector  141  and the interior  62  and posterior  64  sealing surfaces. In an exemplary aspect, the outer surface  184  of the seal ring  180  may include a flange  183  (See  FIG. 5 ) to facilitate pushing the seal ring into its assembled position and to facilitate hand-turning of the seal assembly. In all other aspects, this embodiment of the seal assembly incorporated on the filter operates in the same manner as exemplary embodiment of the assembly discussed above and depicted in  FIGS. 5 and 9 . 
     FIG. 22  is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a filter housing including at least one textured surface that is located adjacent to an outer sleeve. As shown, the filter housing  245  is disposed around an axis of rotation  81  and incorporates the nut seal assembly including a seal  60  that was previously described (See  FIGS. 4-5 ). Like shown in  FIGS. 20-21 , the filter housing  245  is of a generally cylindrical shape and has a first end  242  including an internally threaded connector (See  FIG. 21 ) and a second end  243  including an externally threaded connector  144 , like shown in  FIG. 20 . The outer sleeve  240  is typically constructed from a sheet of metal that is shaped to form a cylindrical outer surface of the filter housing  245 . 
   Unlike that shown in  FIGS. 20-21 , the filter housing  245  includes at least one textured surface  248   a ,  248   b . Each textured surface  248   a ,  248   b  is configured to enable a person, such as a CATV maintenance person, also referred to as an installer, to hand grip and rotate the filter housing  245  in either direction around its rotational axis  81 . 
   In one intended use scenario, an installer, hand grips the filter housing  245  at points of physical contact located along at least one of the textured surfaces  248   a ,  248   b . In another use scenario, the installer employs a tool, such as a wrench, to grip and to apply a rotational force to the flat portions  46  of the outer surface of the nut  40  in order to rotate the filter housing  245  in either direction around its rotational axis  81 . 
   Each textured surface  248   a ,  248   b  is configured to enhance frictional contact between itself and the hand of the installer. As shown and by way of example, each textured surface includes a plurality of substantially parallel ridge lines. Each textured surface  248   a ,  248   b  is not limited to any one surface pattern and can include a mixed variety of raised and un-raised surface shapes and topologies, including point shaped peaks and/or combinations of other shaped ridge patterns. In some embodiments, the textured surface  248   a ,  248   b  can include simple knurling and/or sticky and/or elastomeric grips. 
   In accordance with the invention, as a result of the inclusion of the textured surfaces  248   a ,  248   b  into the filter housing  245 , the installer can hand grip and generate a sufficient rotational force upon the filter housing  245  in order to install or uninstall the filter housing  245  onto another mating connector, such as provided by a CATV distribution box port, for example. Optionally, the installer can apply a tool to the nut  40  to install or uninstall the filter housing  245  to another mating connector. 
     FIG. 23  is a partially cross-sectioned perspective view of the second embodiment of a filter housing  245  of  FIG. 22  including the textured surfaces  248   a ,  248   b  and the outer sleeve  240 . Like shown in  FIG. 21 , a seal assembly  90 - 3  includes a seal  60 , and surrounds the internally threaded connector  141  at the first end  242  of the filter housing  245 . The seal  60  is substantially as previously described and as illustrated in  FIGS. 1A ,  1 B,  1 C, and  FIG. 2 , for example. The outer sleeve  240  is typically constructed from a sheet of metal that is shaped to form a cylindrical outer surface of the filter housing  245 . 
   Like that shown in  FIG. 21 , the exterior surface of the internally threaded connector  141  includes a seal-grasping surface portion  147 . In one embodiment, the seal-grasping surface  147  can be a flat, smooth surface or a flat, roughened surface suitable to frictionally and/or adhesively engage the interior sealing surface  62  of the seal  60 . Optionally, the seal-grasping surface  147  may also contain a ridge  148  that together with the seal grasping surface  147  forms a groove or a shoulder  148  that is suitably sized and shaped to correspondingly engage an internal shoulder  67  of the seal  60  adjacent the interior sealing surface  62  in a locking-type interference fit between the connector  141  and the seal  60  as also illustrated in  FIGS. 2 ,  17  and  18 . 
   As shown, the seal assembly  90 - 3  of the invention that is incorporated in the filter housing  245  includes the textured surface  248   a . In some embodiments, the textured surface  248   a  also functions as a seal ring  180  (See  FIG. 4 ) having an inner surface  182  and an outer surface  184  (See  FIGS. 4-5 ). The seal ring  180  functions as described and illustrated in association with  FIG. 4 . As shown, the inner surface  182  of the sealing ring  180  radially surrounds the exterior rear surface portion  61  (See  FIG. 4 ) of the seal  60 . The exterior rear surface portion  61  of the seal surrounds the seal-grasping surface portion  147  of the filter housing  245 . 
     FIG. 24  is an exploded perspective view of the filter housing of  FIGS. 22 and 23 . As shown, the filter housing  245  includes textured surfaces  248   a ,  248   b  an outer sleeve  240 , an “o ring”  252 , an insulated insert body  254 , a printed circuit board  256  including a contact pin  256   a  and a collet contact  256   b , an internally threaded seal grasping component  258 , a seal  60  and an electrode insulator component  260 . 
   The “o ring”  252  is typically made of a compressible insulator, such as rubber. The insulated insert body  254  radially surrounds the collet contact  256   b  and provides isolation from the filter housing  245 . The printed circuit board (PCB)  256  includes electrical components that collectively process a signal traveling between the first end  242  and the second end  243  of the filter housing  245 . Processing of the signal includes filtering and optionally other types of signal conditioning. 
   As assembled, the contact pin  256   a  is substantially centered (eqi-distant) between the threads of the internally threaded connector  141  (See  FIG. 23 ) which resides within the internally threaded seal grasping component  258 . The seal  60  attaches to the internally threaded seal grasping component  258  at the first end  242  of the filter housing  245 . The electrode insulator component  260  radially surrounds the contact pin  256   a  of the PCB  256 . 
     FIG. 25  is a partially cross-sectioned perspective view of the second embodiment of a filter housing  245  of  FIGS. 22-24  that excludes the outer sleeve  240 . As shown, an inner sleeve  270 , like the outer sleeve  240 , is also typically constructed from a sheet of metal that is shaped to form a cylindrical surface. As shown, the inner sleeve  270  includes a plurality ( 3 ) of top openings  272  that provide access to a printed circuit board  256  that is surrounded by the inner sleeve  270 . 
   The inner sleeve  270  also includes a plurality of side openings  274 . Each side opening  274  has a straight upper edge that is a folded edge of a folded portion of the inner sleeve that once filled each side opening  274 . The folded portion is folded into a cavity (not shown) formed by the inner sleeve  270  and is disposed in a substantially horizontal position (not shown) to form a shelf to support (mount) the PCB  256 . The folded portion is also referred to as being “tabbed” into the cavity (not shown) formed by the inner sleeve  270 . The shelf formed is also referred to as a “tab”. 
   A person, such as a CATV maintenance person, can insert at least one tool through the top openings  272  to physically access and adjust the operation one or more of the electrical components of the PCB  256 . For example, a maintenance person can physically access and tune one or more inductors residing within the PCB  256  via the top openings  272  before incorporating the outer sleeve  270  (See  FIGS. 22-24 ) into the filter housing  245 . 
   In some embodiments, the outer sleeve  270  is rolled at the first end  242  and the second end  243  of the housing over an o-ring (not shown) to surround and seal the PCB  256 . 
     FIG. 26A  is a partially cross sectioned perspective view of an embodiment of the nut seal assembly  90   a  including an internal shoulder  48   a . A modified nut component  40   a  has an interior surface, at least a portion  41  of which is threaded. A combination of a rear attachment  49   a , that is configured to surround a portion of the exterior of the nut  40   a , forms a cavity  51   a  to receive a posterior end  59   a  of an embodiment of a seal  60   a . A surface along the nut  40   a  and within the cavity  51   a  includes a notch (groove)  47   a  which functions to engage the seal  60   a . As shown, the notch  47   a  includes a shoulder  48   a  that is suitably sized and shaped to engage in a locking-type interference fit a ridge  67   a  of the posterior end  59   a  of the seal  60   a.    
   Upon engagement of the seal  60   a  with the nut  40   a  component, a sealing surface  64   a  of the seal  60   a  abuts an end surface  43  a of the rear attachment  49   a . The seal  60   a  is shown to have an intermediate section  65   a . The seal  60   a , nut  40   a  and rear attachment  49   a  as attached to each other, rotate together and can also rotate together independently of a component (not shown) that is rotatingly attached to a rear side of the rear attachment  49   a . The rear side of the rear attachment  49   a  is opposite to that of the seal  60   a  which is located on a forward side of the rear attachment  49   a . This modified embodiment of the seal assembly  90   a  may be substituted for the preferred seal assembly of  FIGS. 4 through 9  in the exemplary embodiments incorporating connectors and seal rings as described above. 
     FIG. 26B  is a partially cross sectioned exploded perspective view of the embodiment of the nut seal assembly  90   a  of  FIG. 26A . As shown, the nut seal assembly  90   a  includes the seal  60   a , the modified nut  40   a  and the rear attachment  49   a . The rear attachment  49   a  is configured to slide over and surround the modified nut  40   a . The combination of the modified nut  40   a  and a rear attachment  49   a  are configured to receive the seal  60   a  via the cavity  51   a  (See  FIG. 26B ) formed from the same combination. 
     FIG. 27A  is a partially cross sectioned perspective view of an embodiment of the nut seal assembly  90   b  including a compression ring  24   b  located between a modified nut  40   b  and a seal  60   b . A modified nut component  40   b  has an interior surface, at least a portion  41  of which is threaded. A portion of the exterior of the nut  40   b  forms a cavity  51   b  to receive a posterior end  59   b  of an embodiment of a seal  60   b  and a compression ring  24   b . The compression ring  24   b  is configured to press fit into the cavity  51   b  along with the seal  60   b.    
   Upon engagement of the seal  60   b  and the compression ring  24   b  with the nut  40   b  component, a sealing surface  64   b  of the compression ring  24   b  abuts an end surface  43   b  of the nut  40   b . The seal  60   b  is shown to have an intermediate section  65   b . The seal  60   b , nut  40   b  and compression ring  24   b  as attached to each other, rotate together and can also rotate together independently of a component (not shown) that is rotatingly attached to a rear side of the rear attachment  49   a . The rear side of the rear attachment  49   a  is opposite to that of the seal  60   a  which is located on a forward side of the rear attachment  49   a . This modified embodiment of the seal assembly  90   b  may be substituted for the preferred seal assembly of  FIGS. 4 through 9  in the exemplary embodiments incorporating connectors and seal rings as described above. 
     FIG. 27B  is a partially cross sectioned exploded perspective view of the embodiment of the nut seal assembly  90   b  of  FIG. 27A . As shown, the nut seal assembly  90   b  includes a seal  60   b , a modified nut  40   b  and a compression ring  24   b . The compression ring  24   b  is configured to slide over the nut seal  60   b  and to slide under an outer lip  57   b  of the modified nut  40   b . The modified nut  40   b  is configured to receive a combination of the seal  60   b  and the compression ring  24   b  via the cavity  51   b  formed from the combination. 
   While the invention has been described in terms of exemplary embodiments and aspects thereof, and with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to the exemplary and illustrative embodiments. Rather, various modifications and the like could be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Technology Category: h