U.S. patent application number 11/758999 was filed with the patent office on 2007-12-13 for wall construction for a trailer.
Invention is credited to Rodney P. Ehrlich.
Application Number | 20070283646 11/758999 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38820477 |
Filed Date | 2007-12-13 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070283646 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ehrlich; Rodney P. |
December 13, 2007 |
Wall Construction For A Trailer
Abstract
A sidewall of a trailer includes a first panel having inner and
outer skins and a plurality of metal posts sandwiched between the
skins such that voids are formed between adjacent posts, and a
second panel having inner and outer skins and a plurality of metal
posts sandwiched between the skins such that voids are formed
between adjacent posts. A joint is provided for joining the first
panel and the second panel together.
Inventors: |
Ehrlich; Rodney P.;
(Monticello, IN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
TREXLER, BUSHNELL, GIANGIORGI,;BLACKSTONE & MARR, LTD.
105 WEST ADAMS STREET, SUITE 3600
CHICAGO
IL
60603
US
|
Family ID: |
38820477 |
Appl. No.: |
11/758999 |
Filed: |
June 6, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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60812546 |
Jun 9, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/309.3 ;
52/586.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B62D 33/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
52/309.3 ;
52/586.2 |
International
Class: |
E04B 2/00 20060101
E04B002/00 |
Claims
1. A sidewall of a trailer comprising: a first panel having inner
and outer skins and a plurality of metal posts sandwiched between
said skins such that voids are formed between adjacent posts; a
second panel having inner and outer skins and a plurality of metal
posts sandwiched between said skins such that voids are formed
between adjacent posts; and a joint for joining said first panel
and said second panel together.
2. A sidewall as defined in claim 1, wherein in each said panel,
each said post is attached to said inner skin by at least one of an
adhesive and a fastener.
3. A sidewall as defined in claim 1, wherein in each said panel,
each said post is attached to said outer skin by at least one of an
adhesive and a fastener.
4. A sidewall as defined in claim 1, wherein in each said panel,
each said post is attached to said inner and outer skins by at
least one of an adhesive and a fastener.
5. (canceled)
6. (canceled)
7. A sidewall as defined in claim 1, wherein each said post is
rectangular in cross-section.
8. A sidewall as defined in claim 7 wherein each said post has a
width which is defined as a distance between the outer and inner
skins which is less than a transverse dimension.
9. A sidewall as defined in claim 1, wherein each said panel has a
predetermined height and each said post extends generally along the
entire height of the respective panel.
10. A sidewall as defined in claim 1, wherein in each said panel
said outer skin is spaced apart from said inner skin by a
predetermined width; and further comprising: a bottom rail having a
bottom rail portion extending between said inner and outer skins,
said bottom rail portion generally spanning the width between said
inner and outer skins; and a top rail having a top rail portion
extending between said inner and outer skins, said top rail portion
generally spanning the width between said inner and outer
skins.
11. A sidewall as defined in claim 10, wherein in each said panel,
each said post extends between said bottom rail portion and said
top rail portion.
12-16. (canceled)
17. A sidewall as defined in claim 1, wherein each said panel is
approximately four feet in length, and said posts are spaced from
each other at approximately one foot intervals along said
length.
18. (canceled)
19. A sidewall as defined in claim 1, wherein said joint includes
at least one post.
20. A sidewall as defined in claim 1, wherein said joint is formed
by said inner skins having overlapping end portions which are
secured to one another and said outer skins having overlapping end
portions which are secured to one another, said overlapping end
portions of said outer skins being separated from said overlapping
end portions of said inner skins, and a post provided between said
overlapping end portions of said inner skins and said overlapping
end portions of said outer skins, said post being secured to at
least one of said overlapping end portions of said inner and outer
skins.
21. (canceled)
22. (canceled)
23. A sidewall as defined in claim 20, wherein said post is secured
to at least one of said overlapping end portions of said inner and
outer skins by at least one of a fastener and an adhesive.
24. A sidewall as defined in claim 1, wherein said joint is formed
by said inner skins having end portions, said end portions of said
inner skins having ends which face one another, said outer skins
having end portions, said end portions of said outer skins having
ends which face one another, said end portions of said outer skins
being separated from said end portions of said inner skins, and a
post provided between said end portions of said inner skins and
said end portions of said outer skins, said post being secured to
at least one of said end portions of said inner and outer skins of
said panels.
25. A sidewall as defined in claim 24, wherein said post is secured
to said at least one of said end portions of said inner and outer
skins of said panels by at least one of a fastener and an
adhesive.
26. A sidewall as defined in claim 1, wherein said joint is formed
by said inner skins having end portions, said end portions of said
inner skins having ends which face one another, said outer skins
having end portions, said end portions of said outer skins having
ends which face one another, said end portions of said outer skins
being separated from said end portions of said inner skins, and a
first post provided between said end portions of said inner and
outer skins of said first panel, said first post being secured to
at least one of said end portions of said inner and outer skins of
said first panel, a second post provided between said end portions
of said inner and outer skins of said second panel, said second
post being secured to at least one of said end portions of said
inner and outer skins of said second panel, and means for joining
at least one of said inner skins together and said outer skins
together.
27. The joint as defined in claim 26, wherein said joining means
includes a plate member which joins said inner skins together.
28. The joint as defined in claim 27, wherein said plate member has
first and second opposite end sections and an intermediate section,
said first end section being secured to said end portion of said
inner skin of said first panel, said second end section being
secured to said end portion of said inner skin of said second
panel, said intermediate section generally spanning a distance
between said ends of said inner skins.
29-33. (canceled)
34. The joint as defined in claim 26, wherein said joining means
includes a plate member which joins said outer skins together.
35. The joint as defined in claim 34, wherein said plate member has
first and second opposite end sections and an intermediate section,
said first end section being secured to said end portion of said
outer skin of said first panel, said second end section being
secured to said end portion of said outer skin of said second
panel, said intermediate section generally spanning a distance
between said ends of said outer skins.
36. The joint as defined in claim 35, wherein said first and second
end sections of said plate member are secured to said end portions
of said outer skins by at least one of a fastener and an
adhesive.
37. The joint as defined in claim 26, wherein said first post is
secured to at least one of said end portions of said inner and
outer skins of said first panel by at least one of a fastener and
an adhesive, and wherein said second post is secured to at least
one of said end portions of said inner and outer skins of said
second panel by at least one of a fastener and an adhesive.
38. A sidewall of a trailer comprising: a first panel having inner
and outer skins, said inner skin having an end portion, said outer
skin having an end portion; a second panel having inner and outer
skins, said inner skin of said second panel having an end portion,
said outer skin of said second panel having an end portion; said
end portions of said inner skins having ends which face one
another, said end portions of said outer skins having ends which
face one another, said end portions of said outer skins being
separated from said end portions of said inner skins, a post
provided between said end portions of said inner skins and said end
portions of said outer skins, said post being secured to at least
one of said end portions of said first and second inner and outer
skins.
39. A sidewall as defined in claim 38, wherein said post is secured
to said at least one of said end portions by at least one of a
fastener and an adhesive.
40. A sidewall as defined in claim 38, wherein said first panel
includes a plurality of metal posts sandwiched between said inner
and outer skins of said first panel such that voids are formed
between adjacent posts, and said second panel includes a plurality
of metal posts sandwiched between said inner and outer skins of
said second panel such that voids are formed between adjacent post.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE AND INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE
[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of domestic
priority of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/812,546, filed
Jun. 9, 2006, and entitled "Wall Construction For A Trailer". U.S.
Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/812,546 is hereby incorporated
by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention is generally directed to a sidewall for a
trailer. More particularly, the present invention provides a
sidewall which includes a first panel having inner and outer skins
and a plurality of metal posts sandwiched between the skins such
that voids are formed between adjacent posts, and a second panel
having inner and outer skins and a plurality of metal posts
sandwiched between the skins such that voids are formed between
adjacent posts. A joint is provided for joining the first panel and
the second panel together. The sidewall incorporates the bottom
rail of the trailer and the top rail of the trailer into the
structure of the sidewall.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Prior art trailer sidewalls have typically been formed as
sheet and post, or using composite panels which are joined together
at joints. Such constructions are well-known in the art as shown
for example in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,10,027 and 6,412,854 which are
owned by the Assignee of the present invention.
[0004] The present invention provides a new sidewall construction
for a trailer.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] A sidewall of a trailer is provided. The sidewall includes
at least one inner skin and at least one outer skin which are
spaced apart by posts. A bottom rail has a portion which extends
between the inner and outer skins. A top rail has a portion which
extends between the inner and outer skins. The skins and the bottom
rail are secured together by an adhesive, by fasteners, or by a
combination of adhesive and fasteners. The skins and the top rail
are secured together by an adhesive, by fasteners, or by a
combination of adhesive and fasteners. The inner and outer skins
and the posts are attached together by an adhesive, by fasteners,
or by a combination of adhesive and fasteners.
[0006] The inner and outer skins may be joined to adjacent inner
and outer skins in a number of different manners. In one
embodiment, adjacent inner and outer skins are joined together by
having the inner and outer skins overlap one another. A post may be
provided between the overlapping inner and outer skins and secured
thereto by an adhesive, by fasteners, or by a combination of
adhesive and fasteners. In another embodiment, adjacent inner and
outer skins face, and possibly abut against, one another. A post
may be provided between the facing inner and outer skins and
secured thereto by an adhesive, by fasteners, or by a combination
of adhesive and fasteners. In another embodiment, adjacent inner
and outer skins are separated from one another by a gap and plate
members span the gap between the separated inner and outer skins. A
first post may be provided between one set of the inner and outer
skins. The plate members, the inner and outer skins and the first
post may be secured to one another by an adhesive, by fasteners, or
by a combination of adhesive and fasteners. A second post may be
provided between the other set of the inner and outer skins. The
plate members, the inner and outer skins and the second post may be
secured to one another by an adhesive, by fasteners, or by a
combination of adhesive and fasteners.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The organization and manner of the structure and operation
of the invention, together with further objects and advantages
thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following
description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings,
wherein like reference numerals identify like elements in
which:
[0008] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a
trailer which incorporates sidewalls which are formed in accordance
with features of the present invention;
[0009] FIG. 2 is a partial perspective of the sidewall of FIG. 1
with a portion cut away;
[0010] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the sidewall along line
3-3 of FIG. 2;
[0011] FIG. 4 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the
sidewall of FIG. 1;
[0012] FIG. 4A is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of an
alternative sidewall;
[0013] FIG. 4B is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of an
alternative sidewall;
[0014] FIG. 4C is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of an
alternative sidewall;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a lap joint which can be
used in the first embodiment;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an abutting joint which
can be used in the first embodiment;
[0017] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a
trailer which incorporates sidewalls which are formed in accordance
with features of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a partial perspective of the sidewall of FIG. 7
with a portion cut away;
[0019] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the sidewall along line
9-9 of FIG. 8;
[0020] FIG. 10 is a enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the
sidewall of FIG. 7;
[0021] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a lap joint which can
be used in the second and third embodiments;
[0022] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of an abutting joint which
can be used in the second and third embodiments;
[0023] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the third embodiment of a
trailer which incorporates sidewalls which are formed in accordance
with features of the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 14 is a partial perspective of the sidewall of FIG. 13
with a portion cut away;
[0025] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the sidewall along line
15-15 of FIG. 14;
[0026] FIG. 16 is a enlarged partial cross-sectional view of the
sidewall of FIG. 13;
[0027] FIGS. 17-20 show cross-section views of alternate joints for
joining panels which form the sidewall; and
[0028] FIGS. 21-24 show different cross-sectional view of the posts
that may be used in the joints.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS
[0029] While the invention may be susceptible to embodiment in
different forms, there is shown in the drawings, and herein will be
described in detail, specific embodiments with the understanding
that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification
of the principles of the invention, and is not intended to limit
the invention to that as illustrated and described herein.
[0030] Attention is invited to the first embodiment of the trailer
20 shown in FIGS. 1-5. The trailer 20 includes a body 24 formed
from a pair of rectangular sidewalls 22, a front wall 26, rear
frame and doors 28, a roof structure 30, and a floor structure 32.
The rear of the floor structure 32 is supported by a conventional
rear undercarriage assembly 34 and the front of the floor structure
32 has a landing gear 36 secured thereunder. The floor structure 32
and a lower portion of each sidewall 22 are secured to a respective
bottom rail 38 which extends the length of the trailer 20. The
bottom rails 38 are preferably formed of aluminum, which may be
extruded. The roof structure 30 and an upper portion of each
sidewall 22 are secured to a respective top rail 40 which extends
the length of the trailer 20. The top rails 40 are preferably
formed of aluminum, which may be extruded. The trailer 20 can be
connected to a tractor (not shown) by conventional means, such as a
fifth wheel assembly.
[0031] The sidewalls 22 are formed of a plurality of panels 23
which are identical to one another in configuration and, as such,
only one of the panels 23 is described. Each panel 23 has an outer
skin 42 and an inner skin 46. Adjacent panels 23 of the sidewall 22
are joined together at a joint 44. Each skin 42 and 46 may be
forty-nine (49) inches in length or may have other lengths. Each
outer skin 42 and each inner skin 46 can be formed of a thin metal
skin, preferably formed of aluminum or steel, and can range in
thickness (such as 0.013 to 0.026 for steel skins and 0.050 inches
for aluminum skins) or may be a thin composite material and can
range in thickness (such as 0.026); other suitable or like
materials may also be used. It is to be understood that other
lengths or thicknesses may be used as required by the
application.
[0032] Each panel 23 further includes a plurality of posts 48
mounted between the outer and inner skins 42 and 46. Each post 48
extends along the height of the respective sidewall 22 between the
bottom and top rails 38, 40 and spans the width between the outer
and inner skins 42, 46. Adjacent posts 48 are spaced-apart from one
another such that voids are provided between adjacent posts 48 and
the outer and inner skins 42, 46. The posts 48 are formed of a
metal material, such as aluminum or steel. As illustrated in FIG.
4, the inner skins 46 are preferably attached to the posts 48 by a
structural adhesive 50. As an alternative, as illustrated in FIG.
4A, the outer skins 42a may be attached to the posts 48a (and no
adhesive is provided between the inner skins 46a and the posts 48a)
by adhesive 50a. As another alternative, as illustrated in FIG. 4B,
both the outer and inner skins 42b, 46b may be attached to the
posts 48b by adhesive 50b. As yet another alternative, as
illustrated in FIG. 4C, the adhesive can be eliminated from between
the outer skins 42c and the posts 48c, and from between the inner
skins 46c and the posts 48c.
[0033] As shown, each outer and inner skin 42 and 46 overlaps three
(3) posts 48, but it is to be understood that outer and inner skins
42 and 46 can overlap more or fewer posts 48. The posts 48 provide
all of the structural integrity for the panels 23 such that it is
unnecessary, and even undesirable, to include any type of core
material within the voids formed between adjacent posts 48 as it
will add weight to the panels 23 and the sidewalls 22. First end
portions 59a, 61a of the outer and inner skins 42, 46 extend beyond
one of the posts 48 most proximate to a first end 63 of the panel
23; second end portions 59b, 61b of the outer and inner skins 42,
46 extend beyond another one of the posts 48 most proximate to a
second end 65 of the panel 23.
[0034] As shown in the first embodiment, and specifically in FIG.
5, the adjacent panels 23 are joined together at joints 44, which
are lap joints. At the joints 44, portions 67a of the first end
portions 59a of the outer skins 42 of one panel 23 overlap portions
67b of the second end portions 59b of the outer skins 42 of an
adjacent panel 23, and portions 69a of the first end portions 61a
of the inner skins 46 of the one panel 23 overlap portions 69b of
the second end portions 61b of the inner skins 46 of the adjacent
panel 23. A post 71, which is preferably identical to the posts 48,
is positioned between the overlapping portions 67a, 67b of the
outer skins 42 and the overlapping portions 69a, 69b of the inner
skins 46. Preferably, the post 71 is attached to one of the
overlapping portions 69a, 69b of the inner skins 46 by a structural
adhesive 50. While not illustrated, it is to be understood that
adhesives could also or alternatively be used to attach the post 71
to one of the overlapping portions 67a, 67b of the outer skins 42,
to attach the overlapping portions 67a, 67b of the outer skins 42
together, and to attach the overlapping portions 69a, 69b of the
inner skins 46 together.
[0035] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 6, the posts 71 can be made
wider and the end 63 of the first end portion 59a of one of the
outer skins 42 can face the end 65 of the second end portion 59b of
the adjacent outer skin 42, whether separated from (as
illustrated), or abutting against, one another, with each outer
skin 42 being attached to the post 71 at the joint 44; and the end
63 of the first end portion 61a of one of the inner skins 46 can
face the end 65 of the second end portion 61b of the adjacent inner
skin 46, whether separated from (as illustrated), or abutting
against, one another, with each inner skin 46 being attached to the
post 71 at the joint 44. Preferably, the post 71 is attached to
each of the end portions 61a, 61b of the inner skins 46 by a
structural adhesive 50. While not illustrated, it is to be
understood that adhesives could also or alternatively be used to
attach the post 71 to the end portions 59a, 59b of the outer skins
42.
[0036] Another alternative for forming the joints 44 between
adjacent inner and outer skins 42, 46 is shown and herein discussed
in further detail with regard to FIGS. 17-20. If desired, some or
all of the end portions 59a, 59b; 61a, 61b of the outer skins 42
and/or the inner skins 46 may be stepped by suitable means.
[0037] A conventional scuff plate 52 is proximate to and may abut
against the inner surface of the inner skins 46. The scuff plate 52
may be formed of metal, wood, a composite material, or any other
suitable material.
[0038] At the locations where the joints 44 are provided, a
plurality of spaced apart fasteners 53, preferably rivets, are
provided along the height of the posts 71. As illustrated in FIG.
5, the fasteners 53 extend through both of the overlapping portions
67a, 67b of the outer skins 42, the post 71, and both of the
overlapping portions 69a, 69b of the inner skins 46, thus securing
them all together. It should be noted that, while not a preferred
embodiment, the fasteners 53 would allow for the structural
adhesive 50 securing the inner skins 46 to the post 71, as
illustrated, to not be utilized.
[0039] Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 6, the fasteners 53
extend through the first end portion 59a of the outer skin 42 of
one of the panels 23, the post 71, and the first end portion 61a of
the inner skin 46 of the one panel 23, thus securing them all
together, and further extend through the second end portion 59b of
the outer skin 42 of the other one of the panels 23, the post 71,
and the second end portion 61b of the inner skin 46 of the other
one of the panels 23, thus securing them all together. It should be
noted that, while not a preferred embodiment, the fasteners 53
would allow for the structural adhesive 50 securing the inner skins
46 to the post 71, as illustrated, to not be utilized.
[0040] The lower fasteners 53 may also extend through the scuff
plate 52. The fasteners 53 are provided at spaced apart locations,
such as one and half inches on centers or two inches on centers (it
is to be understood that other spacings may be used), along the
height of the post 71. The fasteners 53 may be provided closer
together if desired. One of the fasteners denoted as 53a is
provided proximate the top of the post 71 and one the fasteners
denoted as fastener 53b is proximate the top of the scuff plate 52.
The lowermost fasteners 53 also extend through the scuff plate 52.
Of these lowermost fasteners, a fastener denoted as 53c is provided
proximate the bottom of the post 71 and a fastener denoted as 53d
is proximate the top of the scuff plate 52.
[0041] At non-joint locations where posts 48 are provided, a
plurality of spaced apart fasteners 54, 56, 58, 60, 62, 64
preferably extend through the outer skin 42, the post 48 and the
inner skin 46. The fasteners 54, 56, 58, 60, 62, 64 are required in
the configuration illustrated in FIG. 4C (where no adhesive is
used), but may be optionally used in the configurations illustrated
in FIGS. 4, 4A and 4B (where adhesive is used). The fasteners 58,
60, 62, 64 are spaced at predetermined intervals, such as for
example twelve inches apart on centers, however, it is to be
understood that other spacings may be used. The lowermost fasteners
54, 56 may also extend through the scuff plate 52. Fastener 54 is
provided proximate the bottom of the post 48 and fastener 56 is
provided proximate the top of the scuff plate 52.
[0042] As best illustrated in FIG. 3, the bottom rail 38 which is
used to connect the sidewall 22 to the floor structure 32 includes
a vertical portion 66 and a horizontal portion 68 which is
generally perpendicular to the vertical portion 66. The horizontal
portion 68 is located at approximately the midpoint of the vertical
portion 66, thereby dividing the vertical portion 66 into an upper
vertical portion 66a and a lower vertical portion 66b. The upper
vertical portion 66a is positioned between the outer skins 42 and
the inner skins 46 along the length of the sidewall 22. The upper
vertical portion 66a has a predetermined height such that the upper
vertical portion 66a extends a predetermined distance upwardly
between the outer and inner skins 42, 46. The upper vertical
portion 66a spans the width between the outer and inner skins 42,
46 and therefore has the same width as the posts 48, 71. The bottom
ends of the posts 48, 71 face the upper end of the upper vertical
portion 66a, such that the bottom ends of the posts 48, 71 sit on
top of the upper end of the upper vertical portion 66a (as
illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3), or such that a gap is provided
therebetween; the gap may be provided for tolerance purposes. The
horizontal portion 68 and the lower vertical portion 66b are
attached to the floor structure 32 by suitable means. The
construction of the bottom rail 38 can be varied for its connection
to the floor structure 32 and the embodiment shown in the drawings
is merely exemplary.
[0043] Two rows of spaced apart fasteners 70, 72, preferably
rivets, are provided along the length of the sidewall 22. The first
row of fasteners 70 are provided proximate the lower end of the
upper vertical portion 66a of the bottom rail 38 and extend through
the respective outer skin 42, the bottom rail 38, the respective
inner skin 46 and the scuff plate 52. The fasteners 70 are
preferably positioned apart from each other two inches on centers,
however other spacings may be provided. The second row of fasteners
72 are provided proximate the upper end of the upper vertical
portion 66a and extend through the respective outer skin 42, the
bottom rail 38, the respective inner skin 46 and the scuff plate
52. The fasteners 72 are preferably positioned apart from each
other two inches on centers, however other spacings may be
provided. At least one row fasteners is provided. Fasteners 53c and
54, which extend through the respective outer skin 42, the
respective posts 48, 71, the respective inner skins 46 and the
scuff plate 52, prevent the bottom ends of the respective posts 48,
71 from moving relative to the bottom rail 38.
[0044] The top rail 40 which is used to connect the sidewall 22 to
the roof structure 30 is formed of a first vertical wall 74, a
second wall 76 which is perpendicular to the first vertical wall
74, a third wall 78 which is perpendicular to the second wall 76
and parallel to the first wall 74, and a fourth wall 80 which is
perpendicular to the third wall 78 and parallel to the second wall
76. The first vertical wall 74 is positioned between the outer
skins 42 and the inner skins 46 along the length of the sidewall
22. The vertical wall 74 has a predetermined height and extends a
predetermined distance downwardly between the outer and inner skins
42, 46. The vertical wall 74 spans the width between the outer and
inner skins 42, 46 and therefore has the same width as the posts
48, 71. The upper ends of the posts 48, 71 face the lower end of
the vertical wall 74 such that the upper ends of the posts 48, 71
may abut against the lower end of the vertical wall 74 (as
illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3), or such that a gap is provided
between the upper ends of the posts 48, 71 and the lower end of the
vertical wall 74; the gap may be provided for tolerance purposes.
The second wall 76 extends inwardly toward the interior of the
trailer 20 and has a plurality of spaced apart apertures provided
therethrough for acceptance of fasteners (not shown), such as
rivets, as described herein. The fourth wall 80 extends outwardly
from the interior of the trailer 20. The fourth wall 80 has a
plurality of spaced apart apertures provided therethrough for
acceptance of fasteners 82, such as rivets, as described
herein.
[0045] The roof structure 30 is formed of a plurality of roof bows
84 which span the width of the trailer 20 and a flat roof sheet 86
which spans the width and length of the trailer 20. The roof bows
84 are provided at predetermined spaced apart positions along the
length of the trailer 20. Each roof bow 84 sits on the second wall
76 and is secured thereto by fasteners, such as rivets. The roof
sheet 86 is attached to the top surface of the roof bows 84 by
structural adhesive and wraps around the fourth wall 80 of the top
rail 40. The roof sheet 86 is attached to the fourth wall 80 of the
top rail 40 by fasteners 82, such as rivets. The roof sheet 48 is
formed of a metal sheet or a strong, reinforced material, such as
KEMLITE.RTM. material or BULITEX.RTM. material or the like.
[0046] A row of spaced apart fasteners 90, preferably rivets, are
provided along the length of the sidewall 22 and extend through the
respective outer skin 42, the first vertical wall 74 of the top
rail 40 and the respective inner skin 46. The fasteners 90 are
preferably positioned apart from each other two inches on centers,
but other spacings may be provided. More than a single row may be
provided. Fasteners 53a and 64, which extend through the respective
outer skins 42, the respective posts 48, 71 and the respective
inner skins 46, prevent the top ends of the respective posts 48, 71
from moving relative to the top rail 40.
[0047] As a result of the construction, the upper vertical portion
66a of the bottom rail 38 and the first vertical wall 74 of the top
rail 40 form a portion of the sidewall 22. Because the bottom rail
38 and the top rail 40 are positioned between the outer and inner
skins 42, 46, the interior dimension of the trailer 20 is increased
over the prior art which provided the bottom and top rails on the
interior of the sidewall.
[0048] In the event of an interior impact, the inner skins 46 of
the panels 23 form the compression side of the sidewall 22 and the
outer skins 42 of the panels 23 form the tension side of the
sidewall 22. In the preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS.
4, 5 and 6, structural adhesive is not used to bond the outer skins
42 to the posts 48, 71 so that if repair becomes necessary, the
fasteners 53, 53a, 53b, 53c, 53d, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62, 64, 70, 72,
78 can be easily removed, such as by drilling same out, to remove
the damaged outer skin 42 and replace same with a new outer skin.
In the event of an exterior impact, the inner skins 46 form the
tension side of the sidewall 22 and the outer skins 42 form the
compression side of the sidewall 22.
[0049] As a result of the construction, the fasteners 54, 56, 58,
60, 62, 64, 70, 72, 78 are in double shear. This allows for fewer
fasteners to be used than in the prior art.
[0050] A suitable adhesive that can be used in this first
embodiment is a one-part or two-part structural adhesive such as
epoxy, acrylic, urethane and the like. Such structural adhesives
are sold, for example, under the tradenames SIKAFAST and
PLEXUS.
[0051] Attention is invited to the second embodiment of the trailer
120 shown in FIGS. 7-11. The trailer 120 includes a body 124 formed
from a pair of rectangular sidewalls 122, a front wall 126, rear
frame and doors 128, a roof structure 130, and a floor structure
132. The rear of the floor structure 132 is supported by a
conventional rear undercarriage assembly 134 and the front of the
floor structure 132 has a landing gear 136 secured thereunder. The
floor structure 132 and a lower portion of each sidewall 122 are
secured to a respective bottom rail 138 which extends the length of
the trailer 120. The bottom rails 138 are preferably formed of
aluminum, which may be extruded. The roof structure 130 and an
upper portion of each sidewall 122 are secured to a respective top
rail 140 which extends the length of the trailer 120. The top rails
140 are preferably formed of aluminum, which may be extruded. The
trailer 120 can be connected to a tractor (not shown) by
conventional means, such as a fifth wheel assembly.
[0052] The sidewalls 122 are formed of a plurality of panels 123
which are identical to one another in configuration and, as such,
only one of the panels 123 is described. Each panel 123 has an
outer skin 142 and an inner skin 146. Adjacent panels 123 of the
sidewall 122 are jointed together at a joint 144. Preferably, each
skin 142 and 146 is four (4) feet in length, but may vary in length
therefrom. Each outer skin 142 and each inner skin 146 can be
formed of a thin metal skin, preferably formed of aluminum or
steel, and can range in thickness (such as 0.013 to 0.026 for steel
skins and 0.050 inches for aluminum skins) or may be a thin
composite material and can range in thickness (such as 0.026);
other suitable or like materials may also be used. It is to be
understood that other lengths or thicknesses may be used as
required by the application.
[0053] Each panel 123 further includes a plurality of posts 148
mounted between the outer and inner skins 142 and 146. Each post
148 extends along the height of the respective sidewall 122 between
the bottom and top rails 138, 140 and spans the width between the
outer and inner skins 142, 146. Adjacent posts 148 are spaced-apart
from one another such that voids are provided between adjacent
posts 148 and the outer and inner skins 142, 146. The posts 148 are
formed of a metal material, such as aluminum or steel. Preferably,
as illustrated in FIG. 10, the outer skins 142 are attached to the
post 148 by structural adhesive 149, and the inner skins 146 are
attached to the post 148 by structural adhesive 150.
[0054] As shown, each outer and inner skin 142 and 146 overlaps
three (3) posts 148, but it is to be understood that outer and
inner skins 142 and 146 can overlap more or fewer posts 148. The
posts 148 provide all of the structural integrity for the panels
123 such that it is necessary, and even undesirable, to include any
type of core material within the voids formed between adjacent
posts 148 as it will add weight to the panels 123 and the sidewalls
122. First end portions 159a, 161a of the outer and inner skins
142, 146 extend beyond one of the posts 148 most proximate to a
first end 163 of the panel 123; second end portions 159b, 161b of
the outer and inner skins 142, 146 extend beyond another one of the
posts 148 most proximate to a second end 165 of the panel 123.
[0055] As shown in the second embodiment, and specifically FIG. 11,
the adjacent panels 123 are joined together at joints 144, which
are lap joints. At the joints 144, portions 167a of the first end
portions 159a of the outer skins 142 of one panel 123 overlap
portions 167b of the second end portions 159b of the outer skins
142 of an adjacent panel 123, and portions 169a of the first end
portions 161a of the inner skins 146 of the one panel 123 overlap
portions 169b of the second end portions 161b of the inner skins
146 of the adjacent panel 123. A post 171, which is preferably
identical to the posts 148, is positioned between the overlapping
portions 167a, 167b of the outer skins 142 and the overlapping
portions 169a, 169b of the inner skins 146. Preferably, the post
171 is attached to one of the overlap portions 169a, 169b of the
inner skins 146 by a structural adhesive 150, and to one of the
overlap portions 167a, 167b of the outer skins 142 by a structural
adhesive 149. Also, the overlap portions 167a, 167b of the outer
skins 142 are preferably attached to one another by a structural
adhesive 143a and the overlap portions 169a, 169b of the inner
skins 146 are preferably attached to one another by a structural
adhesive 143b. While not illustrated and not preferred, it is to be
understood that the joint 144 could be formed without use of one of
the structural adhesives 149, 150.
[0056] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 12, the posts 171 can be
made wider and the end 163 of the first end portion 159a of one of
the outer skins 142 can face the end 165 of the second end portion
159b of the adjacent outer skin 142, whether separated from (as
illustrated), or abutting against, one another, with each outer
skin 142 being attached to the post 171 at the joint 144; and the
end 163 of the first end portion 161a of one of the inner skins 146
can face the end 165 of the second end portion 161b of the adjacent
inner skin 146, whether separated from (as illustrated), or
abutting against, one another, with each inner skin 146 being
attached to the post 171 at the joint 144. Preferably, the post 171
is attached to each of the end portions 161a, 161b of the inner
skins 146 by a structural adhesive 150, and to each of the end
portions 159a, 159b of the outer skins 142 by a structural adhesive
149. While not illustrated and not preferred, it is to be
understood that the joint 144 could be formed without use of one of
the structural adhesives 149, 150.
[0057] Another alternative for forming the joints 144 between
adjacent inner and outer skins 142 and 146 is shown and herein
discussed in further detail with regard to FIGS. 17-20. If desired,
some or all of the end portions 159a, 159b; 161a, 161b of the outer
skins 142 and/or the inner skins 146 may be stepped by suitable
means.
[0058] A conventional scuff plate 152 is proximate to and may abut
against the inner surface of the inner skins 146. The scuff plate
152 may be formed of metal, wood, a composite material, or any
other suitable material. The scuff plate 152 is attached to the
inner skins 146 by structural adhesive.
[0059] As best illustrated in FIG. 9, the bottom rail 138 which is
used to connect the sidewall 122 to the floor structure 132
includes a vertical portion 166 and a horizontal portion 168 which
is generally perpendicular to the vertical portion 166. The
horizontal portion 168 is located at approximately the midpoint of
the vertical portion 166, thereby dividing the vertical portion 166
into an upper vertical portion 166a and a lower vertical portion
166b. The upper vertical portion 166a is positioned between the
outer skins 142 and the inner skins 146 along the length of the
sidewall 122 and bonded thereto by structural adhesive 151 and 153.
Because the bottom rail 138 is clean aluminum, this aids in bonding
of the outer skins 142 and the inner skins 146 with the bottom rail
138. The upper vertical portion 166a has a predetermined height
such that the upper vertical portion 166a extends a predetermined
distance upwardly between the outer and inner skins 142, 146. The
upper vertical portion 166a spans the width between the outer and
inner skins 142, 146 and therefore has the same width as the posts
148, 171. The bottom ends of the posts 148, 171 face the upper end
of the upper vertical portion 166a, such that the bottom ends of
the posts 148, 171 sit on top of the upper end of the upper
vertical portion 166a (as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9), or such
that a gap is provided therebetween; the gap may be provided for
tolerance purposes. The horizontal portion 168 and the lower
vertical portion 166b are attached to the floor structure 132 by
suitable means. The construction of the bottom rail 138 can be
varied for its connection to the floor structure 132 and the
embodiment shown in the drawings is merely exemplary.
[0060] The top rail 140 which is used to connect the sidewall 122
to the roof structure 130 is formed of a first vertical wall 174, a
second wall 176 which is perpendicular to the first vertical wall
174, a third wall 178 which is perpendicular to the second wall 176
and parallel to the first wall 174, and a fourth wall 180 which is
perpendicular to the third wall 178 and parallel to the second wall
176. The first vertical wall 174 is positioned between the outer
skins 142 and the inner skins 146 along the length of the sidewall
122 and is bonded thereto by structural adhesive 155, 157. Because
the top rail 140 is clean aluminum, this aids in bonding of the
outer skins 142 and the inner skins 146 with the top rail 140. The
vertical wall 174 has a predetermined height and extends a
predetermined distance downwardly between the inner and outer skins
142, 146. The vertical wall 174 spans the width between the outer
and inner skins 142, 146 and therefore has the same width as the
posts 148, 171. The upper ends of the posts 148, 171 face the lower
end of the vertical wall 174 such that the upper ends of the posts
148, 171 may abut against the lower end of the vertical wall 174
(as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9), or such that a gap is provided
between the upper ends of the posts 148, 171 and the lower end of
the vertical wall 174; the gap may be provided for tolerance
purposes. The second wall 176 extends inwardly toward the interior
of the trailer 120 and has a plurality of spaced apart apertures
provided therethrough for acceptance of fasteners (not shown), such
as rivets, as described herein. The fourth wall 180 extends
outwardly from the interior of the trailer 120. The fourth wall 180
has a plurality of spaced apart apertures provided therethrough for
acceptance of fasteners 182, such as rivets, as described
herein.
[0061] The roof structure 130 is formed of a plurality of roof bows
184 which span the width of the trailer 120 and a flat roof sheet
186 which spans the width and length of the trailer 120. The roof
bows 184 are provided at predetermined spaced apart positions along
the length of the trailer 120. Each roof bow 184 sits on the second
wall 176 and is secured thereto by fasteners (not shown), such as
rivets. The roof sheet 186 is attached to the top surface of the
roof bows 184 by structural adhesive and wraps around the fourth
wall 180 of the top rail 140. The roof sheet 186 is attached to the
fourth wall 180 of the top rail 140 by fasteners 180, such as
rivets. The roof sheet 148 is formed of a metal sheet or a strong,
reinforced material, such as KEMLITE.RTM. material or BULITEX.RTM.
material or the like.
[0062] As a result of the construction, the upper vertical portion
166a of the bottom rail 138 and the first vertical wall 174 of the
top rail 140 form a portion of the sidewall 122. Because the bottom
rail 138 and the top rail 140 are positioned between the outer and
inner skins 142, 146, the interior dimension of the trailer 120 is
increased over the prior art which provided the bottom and top
rails on the interior of the sidewall.
[0063] As a result of the construction of the trailer 120, the
fasteners used in the sidewall 22 construction of the first
embodiment have been eliminated and the sidewall 122 is formed by
bonding using structural adhesive. If desired, fasteners, such as
those provided in the first embodiment, can be used for shear. It
is to be understood that such fasteners are not necessary for this
second embodiment.
[0064] A suitable adhesive that can be used in this second
embodiment is a one-part or two-part structural adhesive such as
epoxy, acrylic, urethane and the like. Such structural adhesives
are sold, for example, under the tradenames SIKAFAST and
PLEXUS.
[0065] Attention is invited to the third embodiment of the trailer
220 shown in FIGS. 13-16. The trailer 220 includes a body 224
formed from a pair of rectangular sidewalls 222, a front wall 226,
rear frame and doors 228, a roof structure 230, and a floor
structure 232. The rear of the floor structure 232 is supported by
a conventional rear undercarriage assembly 234 and the front of the
floor structure 232 has a landing gear 236 secured thereunder. The
floor structure 232 and a lower portion of each sidewall 222 are
secured to a respective bottom rail 238 which extends the length of
the trailer 220. The bottom rails 238 are preferably formed of
aluminum, which may be extruded. The roof structure 230 and an
upper portion of each sidewall 222 are secured to a respective top
rail 240 which extends the length of the trailer 220. The top rails
240 are preferably formed of aluminum, which may be extruded. The
trailer 220 can be connected to a tractor (not shown) by
conventional means, such as a fifth wheel assembly.
[0066] The sidewalls 222 are formed of a plurality of panels 223
which are identical to one another in configuration and, as such,
only one of the panels 223 is described. Each panel 223 has an
outer skin 242 and an inner skin 246. Adjacent panels 223 of the
sidewall 222 are joined together at a joint 244. Preferably, each
skin 242 and 246 is four (4) feet in length, but may vary in length
therefrom. Each outer skin 242 and each inner skin 246 can be
formed of a thin metal skin, preferably formed of aluminum or
steel, and can range in thickness (such as 0.013 to 0.026 for steel
skins and 0.050 inches for aluminum skins) or may be a thin
composite material and can range in thickness (such as 0.026);
other suitable or like materials may also be used. It is to be
understood that other lengths or thicknesses may be used as
required by the application.
[0067] Each panel 223 further includes a plurality of posts 248
mounted between the outer and inner skins 242 and 246. Each post
248 extends along the height of the respective sidewall 222 between
the bottom and top rails 238, 240 and spans the width between the
outer and inner skins 242, 246. Adjacent posts 248 are spaced-apart
from one another such that voids are provided between adjacent
posts 248 and the outer and inner skins 242, 246. The posts 248 are
formed of a metal material, such as aluminum or steel. Preferably,
as illustrated in FIG. 16, the outer skins 242 are attached to the
post 248 by structural adhesive 249, and the inner skins 246 are
attached to the post 248 by structural adhesive 250.
[0068] As shown, each outer and inner skin 242 and 246 overlaps
three (3) posts 248, but it is to be understood that outer and
inner skins 242 and 246 can overlap more or fewer posts 248. The
posts 248 provide all of the structural integrity for the panels
223 such that it is unnecessary, and even undesirable, to include
any type of core material within the voids formed between adjacent
posts 248 as it will add weight to the panels 223 and the sidewalls
222. First end portions 259a, 261a of the outer and inner skins
242, 246 extend beyond one of the posts 248 most proximate to a
first end 263 of the panel 223; second end portions 259b, 261b of
the outer and inner skins 242, 246 extend beyond another one of the
posts 248 most proximate to a second end 265 of the panel 223.
[0069] As shown in the third embodiment, and specifically FIG. 11,
the adjacent panels 223 are joined together at joints 244, which
are lap joints. At the joints 244, portions 267a of the first end
portions 259a of the outer skins 242 of one panel 223 overlap
portions 267b of the second end portions 259b of the outer skins
242 of an adjacent panel 223, and portions 269a of the first end
portions 261a of the inner skins 246 of the one panel 223 overlap
portions 269b of the second end portions 261b of the inner skins
246 of the adjacent panel 223. A post 271, which is preferably
identical to the posts 248, is positioned between the overlapping
portions 267a, 267b of the outer skins 242 and the overlapping
portions 269a, 269b of the inner skins 246. Preferably, the post
271 is attached to one of the overlap portions 269a, 269b of the
inner skins 246 by a structural adhesive 250, and to one of the
overlap portions 267a, 267b of the outer skins 242 by a structural
adhesive 249. Also, the overlap portions 267a, 267b of the outer
skins 242 are preferably attached to one another by a structural
adhesive 243a and the overlap portions 269a, 269b of the inner
skins 246 are preferably attached to one another by a structural
adhesive 243b. While not illustrated and not preferred, it is to be
understood that the joint 244 could be formed without use of one of
the structural adhesives 249, 250.
[0070] Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 12, the posts 271 can be
made wider and the end 263 of the first end portion 259a of the
adjacent outer skins 242 can face the end 265 of the second end
portion 259b of the adjacent outer skin 242, whether separated from
(as illustrated), or abutting against, one another, with each outer
skin 242 being attached to the post 271 at the joint 244; and the
end 263 of the first end portion 261a of one of the inner skins 246
can face the end 265 of the second end portion 261b of the adjacent
inner skin 246, whether separated from (as illustrated), or
abutting against, one another, with each inner skin 246 being
attached to the post 271 at the joint 244. If desired, some or all
of the end portions 259a, 259b; 261a, 261b of the outer skins 242
and/or the inner skins 246 may be stepped by suitable means.
Preferably, the post 271 is attached to each of the end portions
261a, 261b of the inner skins 246 by a structural adhesive 250, and
to each of the end portions 259a, 259b of the outer skins 242 by a
structural adhesive 249. While not illustrated and not preferred,
it is to be understood that the joint 244 could be formed without
use of one of the structural adhesives 249, 250.
[0071] Another alternative for forming the joints 244 between
adjacent outer and inner skins 242 and 246 is shown and herein
discussed in further detail with regard to FIGS. 17-20.
[0072] A conventional scuff plate 252 is proximate to and may abut
against the inner surface of the inner skins 246. The scuff plate
252 may be formed of metal, wood, a composite material, or any
other suitable material. The scuff plate 252 is attached to the
inner skins 246 by structural adhesive.
[0073] The top rail 240 which is used to connect the sidewall 222
to the roof structure 230 is formed of a first vertical wall 274, a
second wall 276 which is perpendicular to the first vertical wall
274, a third wall 278 which is perpendicular to the second wall 276
and parallel to the first wall 274, and a fourth wall 280 which is
perpendicular to the third wall 278 and parallel to the second wall
276. The first vertical wall 274 is positioned between the outer
skins 242 and the inner skins 246 along the length of the sidewall
222. The vertical wall 274 has a predetermined height and extends a
predetermined distance downwardly between the inner and outer skins
242, 246. The vertical wall 274 spans the width between the outer
and inner skins 242, 246 and therefore has the same width as the
posts 248, 271. If desired, the outer and inner skins 242, 246 may
be adhesively bonded to the vertical wall 274. The upper ends of
the posts 248, 271 face the lower end of the vertical wall 274 (as
illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15), or such that a gap is provided
between the upper ends of the posts 248, 271 and the lower end of
the vertical wall 274; the gap may be provided for tolerance
purposes. The second wall 276 extends inwardly toward the interior
of the trailer 220 and has a plurality of spaced apart apertures
provided therethrough for acceptance of fasteners (not shown), such
as rivets, as described herein. The fourth wall 280 extends
outwardly from the interior of the trailer 220. The fourth wall 280
has a plurality of spaced apart apertures provided therethrough for
acceptance of fasteners 282, such as rivets, as described
herein.
[0074] The roof structure 230 is formed of a plurality of roof bows
284 which span the width of the trailer 220 and a flat roof sheet
286 which spans the width and length of the trailer 220. The roof
bows 284 are provided at predetermined spaced apart positions along
the length of the trailer 220. Each roof bow 284 sits on the second
wall 276 and is secured thereto by fasteners (not shown), such as
rivets. The roof sheet 286 is attached to the top surface of the
roof bows 284 by structural adhesive and wraps around the fourth
wall 280 of the top rail 240. The roof sheet 286 is attached to the
fourth wall 280 of the top rail 240 by fasteners 282, such as
rivets. The roof sheet 248 is formed of a metal sheet or a strong,
reinforced material, such as KEMLITE.RTM. material or BULITEX.RTM.
material or the like.
[0075] A row of spaced apart fasteners 290, preferably rivets, are
provided along the length of the sidewall 222 and extend through
the respective outer skin 242, the first vertical wall 274 of the
top rail 240 and the respective inner skin 246. The fasteners 290
are preferably positioned apart from each other two inches on
centers, but other spacings may be provided. More than a single row
may be provided.
[0076] As a result of the construction, the upper vertical portion
266a of the bottom rail 238 and the first vertical wall 274 of the
top rail 240 form a portion of the sidewall 222. Because the bottom
rail 238 and the top rail 240 are positioned between the outer and
inner skins 242, 246, the interior dimension of the trailer 220 is
increased over the prior art which provided the bottom and top
rails on the interior of the sidewall.
[0077] As best illustrated in FIG. 15, the bottom rail 238 which is
used to connect the sidewall 222 to the floor structure 232
includes a vertical portion 266 and a horizontal portion 268 which
is generally perpendicular to the vertical portion 266. The
horizontal portion 268 is located at approximately the midpoint of
the vertical portion 266, thereby dividing the vertical portion 266
into an upper vertical portion 266a and a lower vertical portion
266b. The upper vertical portion 266a is positioned between the
outer skins 242 and the inner skins 246 along the length of the
sidewall 222. If desired, the outer skins 242 and the inner skins
246 may be adhesively bonded to the upper vertical portion 266a.
The upper vertical portion 266a has a predetermined height such
that the upper vertical portion 266a extends a predetermined
distance upwardly between the outer and inner skins 242, 246. The
upper vertical portion 266a spans the width between the outer and
inner skins 242, 246 and therefore has the same width as the posts
248, 271. The bottom ends of the posts 248, 271 face the upper end
of the upper vertical portion 266a, such that the bottom ends of
the posts 248, 271 sit on top of the upper end of the upper
vertical portion 266a (as illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15), or such
that a gap is provided therebetween; the gap may be provided for
tolerance purposes. The horizontal portion 268 and the lower
vertical portion 266b are attached to the floor structure 232 by
suitable means. The construction of the bottom rail 238 can be
varied for its connection to the floor structure 232 and the
embodiment shown in the drawings is merely exemplary.
[0078] Two rows of spaced apart fasteners 270, 272, preferably
rivets, are provided along the length of the sidewall 222. The
first row of fasteners 270 are provided proximate the lower end of
the upper vertical portion 266a of the bottom rail 238 and extend
through the respective outer skin 242, the bottom rail 238, the
respective inner skin 246 and the scuff plate 252. The fasteners
270 are preferably positioned apart from each other two inches on
centers, however other spacings may be provided. The second row of
fasteners 272 are provided proximate the upper end of the upper
vertical portion 266a and extend through the respective outer skin
242, the bottom rail 238, the respective inner skin 246 and the
scuff plate 252. The fasteners 272 are preferably positioned apart
from each other two inches on centers, however other spacings may
be provided. At least one row fasteners is provided.
[0079] As a result of the construction of the trailer 220, many of
the fasteners used in the sidewall 22 construction of the first
embodiment have been eliminated and most of the sidewall 222 is
formed by bonding using structural adhesive. If desired, a few
shear rivets may be used.
[0080] A suitable adhesive that can be used in this third
embodiment is a one-part or two-part structural adhesive such as
epoxy, acrylic, urethane and the like. Such structural adhesives
are sold, for example, under the tradenames SIKAFAST and
PLEXUS.
[0081] In each embodiment, the posts 48, 71, 148, 171, 248, 271 can
be formed as shown rectangular in cross-section as shown in FIGS.
2, 8 and 14, having inwardly scalloped edges 400 in cross-section
as shown in FIGS. 5, 6, 11, 12 and 17-20, being oblong in
cross-section (FIG. 21), I-beam shaped in cross-section (FIG. 22),
I-beam shaped with curved ends in cross-section (FIG. 23),
generally C-shaped in cross-section (FIG. 24), or may take other
forms not shown. If rectangular, the posts 48, 71, 148, 171, 248,
271 preferably has a width (the distance between the outer and
inner skins 42, 46; 142, 146; 242, 246) which is less than the
traverse dimension of the post 48, 71, 148, 171, 248, 271.
[0082] A preferred spacing for the posts 48, 71, 148, 171, 248, 271
is one (1) foot intervals along the length of the sidewall 22, 122
and 222 and a preferred dimension of each post 48, 71, 148, 171,
248, 271 is 0.25 inches by one (1) inch. It is to be understood
that other quantities, spacing and dimensions may be used depending
on the application. For example, the posts 48, 71, 148, 171, 248,
271 may vary in width or thickness to vary the stiffness of the
sidewall 22, 122, 222.
[0083] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, alternate joints for joining
the skins 42 and 46 are provided.
[0084] In FIG. 17, a plate 402 is provided which extends between
the adjacent ends 63, 65 of the outer skins 42, and a plate 404,
which may be a logistics plate, is provided which extends between
the adjacent ends 63, 65 of the inner skins 46.
[0085] In this joint 44, the ends 63, 65 of the outer skins 42 and
the ends 63, 65 of the inner skins 46 are spaced apart from each
other. The plate 402 has flat end sections 406, 408 and a curved
intermediate section 410 therebetween. The intermediate section 410
curves outwardly from the interior of the trailer 20. The flat end
sections 406, 408 sit against the outer surfaces of the respective
adjacent outer skins 42, at the end portions 59a, 59b thereof, and
the intermediate section 410 spans the distance between the
adjacent ends 63, 65 of the outer skins 42. The intermediate
section 410 is preferably curved or bulged outwardly in order to
increase a size of the gap provided between the ends 63, 65 of the
respective adjacent outer skins 42. If desired, the intermediate
section 410 may transition to a flat (not shown) or to a closed end
at the top and/or bottom ends of the plate 402 for aiding in
connection to the top and bottom rails 30 and 38.
[0086] The plate 404 has flat end sections 412, 414 and an
intermediate section 416 therebetween. The intermediate section 416
has end portions 418, 420 which taper inwardly from the flat end
sections 412, 414 toward the interior of the trailer 20 and a flat
middle portion 422 extending therebetween. The middle portion 422
is not flush with the inner surfaces of the inner skins 46. The
flat end sections 412, 414 sit against the outer surfaces of the
respective adjacent inner skins 46, at the end portions 61a, 61b
thereof, and the intermediate section 416 spans the distance
between the adjacent ends 63, 65 of the inner skins 46. The
intermediate section 416 may have a plurality of logistics
apertures 417 provided therethrough to provide access to the gap
provided between the adjacent ends 63, 65 of the outer and inner
skins 42, 46, if desired.
[0087] A post 71 is positioned between the inner surface of the end
portion 59a of the outer skin 42 and the outer surface of the end
section 412. A plurality of spaced-apart fasteners 424, such as
rivets, extend through the end section 406 of the plate 402, the
end portion 59a of the outer skin 42, the post 71, the end section
412 of the plate 404, and the end portion 61a of the inner skin 46.
Another post 71 is positioned between the inner surface of the end
portion 59b of the outer skin 42 and the outer surface of the end
section 414. A plurality of spaced-apart fasteners 426, such as
rivets, extend through the end section 408 of the plate 402, the
end portion 59b of the outer skin 42, the post 71, the end section
414 of the plate 404, and the end portion 61b of the inner skin
46.
[0088] Alternatively, the end sections 406, 408 of plate 402 can
sit between the inner surface of the end portions 59a, 59b of the
outer skins 42 and the post 71; or the end sections 412, 414 of
plate 404 can sit against the inner surface of the end portions
61a, 61b of the inner skins 46 such that the post 71 sits against
the outer surface of the end portions 61a, 61b of the inner skins
46; or the end sections 412, 414 of plate 404 can sit between the
posts 71 and the inner surface of the end portions 59a, 59b of the
outer skins 42 (although the configuration of the end portions 418,
420 would be slightly changed) such that the post 71 also sits
against the outer surface of the end portions 61a, 61b of the inner
skins 46; or the end sections 412, 414 of plate 404 can sit between
the outer surface of the end portions 59a, 59b of the outer skins
42 and the end sections 406, 408 of plate 402 (although the
configuration of the end portions 418, 420 would be slightly
changed) such that the post 71 sits against both the outer surface
of the end portions 61a, 61b of the inner skins 46 and the inner
surface of the end portions 59a, 59b of the outer skins 42 (in this
configuration, the plates 402, 404 could be integrally formed); or
the plate 402 may be removed and replaced by overlapping outer
skins 42 of the type generally disclosed in FIGS. 5 and 11 (both
outer skins 42 may span the gap or only one of the outer skins 42
may span the gap). In these alternative configurations, the width
of the post 71 is accordingly adjusted. It is to be understood that
other variations of connections between the outer and inner skins
46, 42, between the posts 71, between the end sections 406, 408 of
plate 402, and between the end sections 412, 414 of plate 404, can
be provided in keeping with the spirit of the invention. It is
further to be understood that, if desired, structural adhesives may
be provided to further secure one or more of the outer and inner
skins 46, 42, the posts 71, and the plates 402, 404 together. It is
also to be understood that the plates 402, 404 may be planar
members such that the intermediate sections 410, 416 are planar
with the flat end sections 406, 408; 412, 414.
[0089] In FIG. 18, a plate 402, identical to that shown in FIG. 14,
is provided which extends between the adjacent ends 63, 65 of the
outer skins 42, and a plate 504, which may be a logistics plate, is
provided which extends between the adjacent ends 63, 65 of the
inner skins 46.
[0090] In this joint 44, the adjacent end portions of the inner
skins 46 are stepped by suitable means to form an offset 98 from
the remainder of the inner skin surface. The offset 98 extends to
the ends 63, 65 of the inner skins 46. The plate 504 is planar and
has end sections 512, 514 and an intermediate section 516
therebetween. Logistics apertures 517 may be provided in the
intermediate section 516. The end sections 512, 514 sit against the
inner surfaces of the respective offsets 98 formed in the end
portions 61a, 61b of the adjacent inner skins 46 and the
intermediate section 516 spans the distance between the adjacent
ends 61a, 61b of the inner skins 46. The plate 514 is thus
preferably flush with the remainder of the inner skins 46. It
should be noted that the offsets 98 formed in the end portions 61a,
61b need not extend all the way to the ends 63, 65 of the inner
skins 46 as illustrated, but that, in this instance, minor changes
to the plate 504 would need to be made such that the end sections
512, 514 of the plate 504 would sit against the inner surfaces of
the respective offsets 98 formed in the end portions 61a, 61b of
the adjacent inner skins 46, and such that the intermediate section
516 would not be planar with the end sections 512, 514.
[0091] A post 71 is positioned between the inner surface of the end
portion 59a of the outer skin 42 and the outer surface of the
offset 98 formed in the inner skin 46. A plurality of spaced-apart
fasteners 524, such as rivets, extend through the end section 406
of the plate 402, the end portion 59a of the outer skin 42, the
post 71, the offset 98 of the inner skin 46, and the end section
512 of the plate 504. Another post 71 is positioned between the
inner surface of the end portion 59b of the outer skin 42 and the
outer surface of the offset 98 formed in inner skin 46. A plurality
of spaced-apart fasteners 526, such as rivets, extend through the
end section 408 of the plate 402, the end portion 59b of the outer
skin 42, the post 71, the offset 98 of the inner skin 46, and the
end section 514 of the plate 504.
[0092] Alternatively, the end sections 406, 408 of plate 402 can
sit between the inner surface of the end portions 59a, 59b of the
outer skins 42 and the post 71; or the end sections 512, 514 of
plate 504 can sit against the outer surface of the end portions
61a, 61b of the inner skins 46 such that the posts 71 sit against
the end sections 512, 514; or the end sections 512, 514 of plate
504 can sit between the posts 71 and the inner surface of the end
portions 59a, 59b of the outer skins 42 (although the configuration
of the end portions 518, 520 would be slightly changed) such that
the post 71 also sits against the outer surface of the end portions
61a, 61b of the inner skins 46; or the end sections 512, 514 of
plate 504 can sit between the outer surface of the end portions
59a, 59b of the outer skins 42 and the end sections 406, 408 of
plate 402 (although the configuration of the end portions 518, 520
would be slightly changed) such that the post 71 sits against both
the outer surface of the end portions 61a, 61b of the inner skins
46 and the inner surface of the end portions 59a, 59b of the outer
skins 42 (in this configuration, the plates 402, 504 could be
integrally formed); or the plate 402 may be removed and replaced by
overlapping outer skins 42 of the type generally disclosed in FIGS.
5 and 11 (both outer skins 42 may span the gap or only one of the
outer skins 42 may span the gap). In any of these configurations,
the end sections of the outer skins 42 could also be stepped in a
manner similar to the end portions of the inner skins 46 such that
offset portions are formed. In any of these configurations, the
width of the post 71 is accordingly adjusted. It is to be
understood that other variations of connections between the outer
and inner skins 46, 42, between the posts 71, between the end
sections 406, 408 of plate 402, and between the end sections 512,
514 of plate 504, can be provided in keeping with the spirit of the
invention. It is further to be understood that, if desired,
structural adhesives may be provided to further secure one or more
of the outer and inner skins 42, 46, the posts 71, and the plates
402, 504 together. It is also to be understood that the plate 402
may be a planar member such that the intermediate sections 410 is
planar with the flat end sections 406, 408. It is further to be
understood that the plate 504 may not be a planar member such that
the intermediate section 516 bulges outwardly from the flat end
sections 512, 514.
[0093] As shown in FIGS. 19 and 20, alternate joints 144, 244 for
joining the panels 123 in the second embodiment and the panels 223
in the third embodiment are provided.
[0094] In the joint 144, 244 shown in FIG. 19, the only differences
from the embodiment shown in FIG. 17 is that the fasteners 424, 426
have been eliminated and, instead, structural adhesive 192, 292 is
used to join the skins 142, 242; 146, 246, the plates 402, 404 and
the posts 71 together along the adjacent surfaces thereof.
Therefore, the specifics of the structures of these elements is not
repeated. It should be understood that, while not illustrated or
preferred, that the structural adhesive 192, 292 may be removed
from either between the posts 71 and the outer skins 142, 242, or
from between the posts 71 and the plate 404.
[0095] In the joint 144, 244 shown in FIG. 20, the only differences
from the embodiment shown in FIG. 18 is that the fasteners 524, 526
have been eliminated and, instead, structural adhesive 192, 292 is
used to join the skins 142, 242; 146, 246 the plates 402, 504 and
the posts 71 together along the adjacent surfaces thereof.
Therefore, the specifics of the structures of these elements is not
repeated. It should be understood that, while not illustrated or
preferred, that the structural adhesive 192, 292 may be removed
from either between the posts 71 and the outer skins 142, 242, or
from between the posts 71 and the inner skins 146, 246.
[0096] In each embodiment, the components of the sidewall 22, 122
and 222, such as the inner and outer skins, the posts, the top and
bottom rails, all have flat surfaces, making them ideally suitable
for bonded joints.
[0097] The posts 48, 71, 148, 171, 248, 271 transmit shear. It
should also be noted that the structural adhesives discussed herein
may be identical to one another of different as desired.
[0098] While the present sidewall 22, 122 and 222 is shown and
described with a plurality of outer and inner skins to form the
sidewall, it is to be understood that a single outer skin and/or a
single inner skin could be provided which extends along the entire
length of the sidewall, eliminating the individual panels.
[0099] While preferred embodiments of the present invention are
shown and described, it is envisioned that those skilled in the art
may devise various modifications of the present invention without
departing from the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
* * * * *