Importance

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Abstract

An integrated seal assembly is provided, as is a coaxial cable system component incorporating the seal assembly with a connector for coupling to an externally threaded port. The seal assembly includes a bellows-type seal formed at least partially of a conductive elastomer and having an elastically deformable tubular body and a plurality of sealing surfaces, and an integral joint-section intermediate an anterior end and a posterior end that assists in the axial deformation of the seal in response to axially-directed force. One of the sealing surfaces engages a corresponding surface of an internally threaded nut or housing. The component is engagable with an externally threaded port via the internally threaded connector. The anterior end of the seal fits over the port and a sealing surface of the seal is capable of sealing axially against a shoulder of the port while the seal body covers the otherwise exposed externally threaded port. Upon tightening of the nut on the port, the seal deflects in the axial direction to accommodate a variety of distances between the connector and the shoulder of the port. Additionally, the seal is capable of expanding to allow a second sealing surface to contact and seal against a variety of smooth outside diameters of the port. The versatility of the seal allows an operator to use one connector of a system component on a wide variety of externally threaded ports without the risk of a faulty seal at the connection or a poor connection due to an improper seal.

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First Claim