Abstract: Joining member for joining an adjacent pair of plates on a side of a cargo carrier are formed by a rectilinear strip having an inner surface including a pair of flanges positioned between two rows of aperatures straddling a channel of uniform depth. A sealing strip fixed in the channel having a width about equal to the distance between said pair of flanges, a length equal to the rectilinear strip length, and a thickness greater than the channel depth seals the line of adjacency between the pair of plates. Alternatively, an inner strip including openings aligned with the channel for receiving logistics fittings is employed where the plates are spaced apart to permit the channel defining flanges to project between the plates.

Abstract: A panel of a trailer is adhesively bonded to a plurality of horizontal and vertical support rail structures which are secured to the main body of the trailer. Each of the structures include a pair of rail elements through which loads are transmitted into the panel by means of adhesively bonded joints between edges of the panel and the rail elements to provide sealing and support for the panel.

Abstract: A blind rivet is disposed to be inserted through openings in a pair of structures. The rivet includes a main stem having a pliable sleeve disposed therearound. The rivet includes a head portion on one end and an enlarged portion or bulb on the other. The rivet is held in place as the head portion is drawn outwardly causing the bulb portion to expand the sleeve so as to provide clinching of the two structures. After the expansion of the sleeve, the stem is driven back into the openings in the structure.