초록 ▼

A sidewall of a trailer is formed from at least two composite panels joined together by a novel joining configuration. Each panel is formed from inner and outer thin metal skins and a plastic core sandwiched between the skins. In several embodiments, at least one of the skins has at least one end co

A sidewall of a trailer is formed from at least two composite panels joined together by a novel joining configuration. Each panel is formed from inner and outer thin metal skins and a plastic core sandwiched between the skins. In several embodiments, at least one of the skins has at least one end coined to as to compress the core between the skins to define a coined end section. A logistics plate and a splicing member are used to join the panels together and are secured thereto by rivets. The logistics plate and/or the splicing member may sit against the coined end sections. In other embodiments, a logistics plate is secured by rivets to the panels for joining them together. The splicing member is eliminated and instead, the outer skin of at least one panel is extended to lie behind the logistics plate. In yet other embodiments, one end of each panel has a thickness which is less than the other end of the panel, which may be formed by coining or by a tapered panel. The skins at the greater thickness end of the panel freely project beyond an end of the core member. The lesser thickness end is inserted between the skins of the other panel at the greater thickness end and secured thereto by rivets. An insert may be used between the skins where the rivets are inserted in any of the embodiments to substantially prevent compression of the panels.

대표청구항 ▼

[ The invention claimed is:] [22.] A plurality of panels adapted for use in a sidewall of a trailer body and the like comprising: each said panel having first and second opposite ends and comprising an inner skin, an outer skin and a core member sandwiched between said inner skin and said outer skin

[ The invention claimed is:] [22.] A plurality of panels adapted for use in a sidewall of a trailer body and the like comprising: each said panel having first and second opposite ends and comprising an inner skin, an outer skin and a core member sandwiched between said inner skin and said outer skin, said inner and outer skins at said first end of each said panel are coined so as to compress said core member between said inner and outer skins at said first end of each said panel such that said first end of each said panel has a thickness which is less than said second end of each said panel, said first end of one of said panels being inserted between said skins of another of said panels and secured to said skins at said second end of said another of said panels.