Abstract: A wireless tractor-trailer point-to-point communication system which includes a coordinator and at least one node. The system may include a plurality of clusters, each of which comprises a plurality of devices such as sensors. One of the devices of each cluster is configured to receive information from the other devices in the cluster, and transmit information to the coordinator. The coordinator not only receives information about the network, but may also be configured to route the information to other networks. The network could be disposed on a tractor-trailer, wherein the devices comprise different sensors, such as pressure sensors, temperature sensors, voltage sensors and switch controls, all of which are located in areas relatively close to each other.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel joint which includes an anchoring system between composite plate side walls of a trailer body. The anchoring system includes track members which are provided at multiple points on each side wall. Beams extend between the respective track members by attachments and are attached thereto. The beams can be moved up and down along the tracks and support cargo or a removable deck which supports the cargo. The track members can also be removed from the joints without dismantling the entire joint. Splicing members are attached at the joints on the outside of the trailer body.

Abstract: A sidewall for a semi-trailer is provided. The sidewall includes composite side panels, a baserail and a splicing member. The panels are formed of inner and outer skins and a core member therebetween. An upper portion of the panels is secured to a top rail of the semi-trailer. A lower portion of the baserail is secured to a bottom rail of the semi-trailer. The upper portion of the baserail and the lower portion of the panels overlap such that an outer surface of the baserail is positioned against the inner skin of the panels. The upper portion of the baserail and the lower portion of the panels are secured together by the splicing member which is positioned against the outer skin of the panels, and the outer surface of the baserail. The splicing member also supports the panels at the bottom end thereof.

Abstract: 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. A logistics plate and overlapping outer skins of the panels are used to join the panels together and are secured thereto by rivets.

Abstract: 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. A logistics plate and a splicing member are used to join the panels together and are secured thereto by rivets.

Abstract: A door lock mechanism includes a sleeve mounted on the door of a trailer which extends a substantial dimension of the door. A lockrod is disposed in the sleeve and a handle assembly is connected to the bottom thereof. The handle assembly has structure and the top of the lockrod has structure which engage corresponding structures on the trailer, thereby locking the door in place. The handle assembly is used to rotate the lockrod, thereby selectively locking and unlocking the door. An end cap is disposed at each end of the sleeve, and the lockrod extends through an opening in the respective end caps. A thrust bearing is disposed between the end cap and the handle assembly and between the other end cap and the structure. The handle assembly includes a handle and structure that engages structure on the trailer, thereby locking the handle in place.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel joint which includes an anchoring system between composite plate side walls of a trailer body. The anchoring system includes track members which are provided at multiple points on each side wall. Beams extend between the respective track members by attachments and are attached thereto. The beams can be moved up and down along the tracks and support cargo or a removable deck which supports the cargo. The track members can also be removed from the joints without dismantling the entire joint. Splicing members are attached at the joints on the outside of the trailer body.

Abstract: A system having dual functionality implemented on a semi-trailer is provided. The system includes a sensor attached to a rear of the semi-trailer, a processing and display assembly, other systems associated with the semi-trailer, and wiring connected therebetween. The wiring may also be connected to other systems associated with the semi-trailer. The sensor senses the distance between a back end of the semi-trailer and an object behind the semi-trailer. Based on the distance sensed, the processing and display assembly flashes colored lights, visible to the semi-trailer driver, to inform the driver of the distance to an object behind the semi-trailer. The processing and display assembly also monitors the status of other systems associated with the semi-trailer. Based on the status, the processing and display assembly continuously shines colored lights, visible to the semi-trailer driver, to inform the driver of the status of the other systems.

Abstract: The present invention provides a novel joint which includes an anchoring system between composite plate side walls of a trailer body. The anchoring system includes track members which are provided at multiple points on each side wall. Beams extend between the respective track members by attachments and are attached thereto. The beams can be moved up and down along the tracks and support cargo or a removable deck which supports the cargo. The track members can also be removed from the joints without dismantling the entire joint. Splicing members are attached at the joints on the outside of the trailer body.

Abstract: A method of attaching a logistics rail to a trailer sidewall is disclosed. The trailer sidewall includes an inner skin, an outer skin, a member mounted between the inner and outer skins, and a core between the inner and outer skins. A vertical channel is formed between the inner skin and the member. The inner skin is cut to expose the channel. Thereafter, the logistics rail is inserted within the member. The logistics rail has a plurality of slots therethrough so that items can be attached to the trailer sidewall. Finally, the logistics rail is attached to the member.

Abstract: A refrigerated trailer includes a floor and a pair of sidewalls which extend upwardly from the floor. Each sidewall is formed of inner and outer skins and a plastic core provided therebetween. A plurality of posts are also provided between the inner and outer skins. The posts have predetermined heights which vary along a predetermined pattern along the length of the trailer.