FALSE BULKHEAD ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR RETAINING A FLEXIBLE BULKHEAD

A false bulkhead assembly for engagement with a vehicle, said false bulkhead assembly comprising a frame adapted to be engaged with the vehicle and a cover operably engaged with the frame. The false bulkhead assembly is provided to effectively hide a front bulkhead or a rear bulkhead of a tank trailer. The false bulkhead assembly is provided to hide from public view any staining from the overflow of accumulated precipitation from a trough or other structure on the tank body. The false bulkhead assembly is also provided to display graphics and other similar visual images to provide advertising and marketing characteristics to a specific company when using this false bulkhead assembly of a specific tank trailer or tank vehicle.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure is directed to a trailer. More particularly, the present disclosure is directed to exterior assemblies for a tank trailer. Specifically, the present disclosure is directed to a false, flexible bulkhead assembly for a trailer. The false bulkhead assembly is configured to display graphics and other similar visual images while also hiding, from public view, unwanted stains or blemishes that form on an associated front or rear bulkhead of the trailer due to overflow of accumulated precipitation from an upper region of the trailer.

BACKGROUND

Tank trailers and tank vehicles that are designed to transport any liquid or gaseous materials within an associated tank or tanks are greatly regulated under United States federal law. These restrictions are implemented into this specific market to help improve safety and protection when transporting hazardous and/or dangerous liquid or gaseous loads inside of these tank trailers and tank vehicles. With such regulations, current manufacturers of tank trailers and tank vehicles are limited to making various modifications to said tank trailers and tank vehicles. As such, current tank trailers and tank vehicles in the marketplace are substantially similar to one another due to these regulations.

Moreover, tank trailers, tank vehicles, and other similar enclosed trailers and vehicles experience different types of weather and precipitation depending on the climate and region in which the tank trailers operated. Generally, tank trailers include a trough or a similar enclosure on a top portion of the trailer for specific purposes based on the type of tank trailer. These troughs can accumulate rainwater or other types of precipitation therein when the tank trailers are stationary and parked or when in operation and being towed by a vehicle (e.g., a semi-trailer truck). Such accumulation of rainwater or other precipitation inside of the trough may spill over the trough and onto the front or rear exterior bulkheads of the trailer. Such spilling can cause unwanted stains or grime on the front end or the rear end of the trailer. Even more so, these unwanted stains or grime can be seen by bystanders or drivers near the trailer, which could ultimately confuse these bystanders or drivers that the drainage stains or grime are leaking material or liquid stains loaded in the trailer (e.g., gasoline, hazardous chemicals, etc.). In other words, the harmless spilling of precipitation from the trough of a trailer could create unwanted concerns and logistic delays due to drivers noticing these stains as a potential hazard on the road.

SUMMARY

The false bulkhead assembly disclosed herein is provided to effectively hide a front bulkhead or a rear bulkhead of a tank trailer. The false bulkhead assembly is provided to hide from public view any staining from the overflow of accumulated precipitation from a trough or other structure on the tank body. The false bulkhead assembly is also provided to display graphics and other similar visual images to provide advertising and marketing characteristics to a specific company when using this false bulkhead assembly of a specific tank trailer or tank vehicle. The provision of the false bulkhead assembly does not require any modification of the actual tank trailer itself and therefore the tank trailer remains in compliance with federal regulations. As such, the false bulkhead assembly with a tank trailer or tank vehicle disclosed herein addresses some of the inadequacies of previously known tank trailers or tank vehicles lacking such false bulkhead assembly.

In one aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a false bulkhead assembly for engagement with a vehicle. The false bulkhead assembly comprises a frame adapted to be engaged with the vehicle; and a cover operably engaged with the frame.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the frame is removably engaged with the vehicle. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the cover is selectively positionable outwardly from a wall of the vehicle. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the cover is selectively positionable parallel to the wall of the vehicle. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the cover is a fibrous material. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a retaining member operable to secure the cover to the frame. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide a clip provided on the frame and operable to secure the frame to a wall of the vehicle. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide graphics provided on the cover.

In another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide in combination a trailer comprising a main body having a front bulkhead, a rear bulkhead, and an exterior wall extending between the front bulkhead and the rear bulkhead; and a false bulkhead assembly positioned adjacent one of the front bulkhead and the rear bulkhead of the trailer.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the trailer further comprises an attachment portion; wherein the false bulkhead assembly is removably engageable with the attachment portion. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide the false bulkhead assembly further comprises: a frame operably engageable with the attachment portion; and a cover operably engaged with the frame. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide the false bulkhead assembly further includes graphics provided on the cover. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the frame further comprises a base wall; and a clip extending from the base wall, wherein the clip is configured to operably engage the frame with the attachment portion of the trailer. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the clip further comprises a support arm extending away from the base wall; and an attachment arm extending outwardly away from a first end of the support arm, wherein the attachment arm and support arm are moveable between a straight position and a bent position when operably engaging the attachment arm with the attachment portion. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the clip further comprises: a protrusion extending away from an opposing second end of the attachment arm, wherein the protrusion is configured to operably engage with the attachment portion. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the attachment portion further comprises a groove extending into the attachment portion, wherein the groove is configured to receive and house the protrusion. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide that the false bulkhead assembly further comprises a retaining member configured to retain the cover with the frame.

In another aspect, and exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method of concealing a bulkhead of a vehicle. The method comprises the steps of providing a false bulkhead assembly including a frame and a cover; engaging the frame with an attachment portion of the vehicle; and hiding a region of the vehicle with the cover.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide steps of engaging a clip of the frame with the attachment portion of the vehicle; and securing a cover with the frame via a retaining member. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further provide steps of inserting a portion of the cover into a recess defined by the clip of the frame; inserting the retaining member into the recess defined by the clip of the frame; and retaining the portion of the cover, via the retaining member, within the recess of the clip.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG.1illustrates a trailer or towed vehicle, which is generally indicated by the reference number1. The trailer1illustrated inFIG.1is a tank trailer. It will be understood that the illustrated trailer1is exemplary only and any type of trailer is contemplated to be represented by the illustrated trailer. Exemplary trailers considered suitable herein include enclosed trailers, dry van trailers, dump trailers, transfer trailers, pneumatic tank trailers, liquid tank trailers, horse trailers, livestock trailers, tilt trailers, utility trailers, and any other similar trailers of the like for the purpose of being towed.

As illustrated inFIG.1, the trailer1has a front end1A, an opposing rear end1B, and a longitudinal direction defined therebetween where the trailer1may travel forwardly and backwardly along the longitudinal direction when operably engaged with a towing vehicle (described below). The trailer1also has a first side or left side1C, an opposing second side or right side1D, and a transverse direction defined therebetween where the trailer1may travel laterally (i.e., turning left and/or right) along the transverse direction when operably engaged with a towing vehicle (described below). The trailer1may also have a top end1E, an opposing bottom end1F, a vertical direction defined therebetween.

It should be understood that the terms “front,” “rear,” “left,” “right,” “top,” “bottom,” and other directional derivatives used herein are to describe the orientation of the trailer1and associated components or assemblies of the trailer1illustrated in the attached figures. Such use of these terms herein should in no way be considered to limit the orientation in which the trailer1and associated components or assemblies of the trailer1may be utilized during operation.

Still referring toFIG.1, the trailer1may be mechanically connected to a vehicle or towing vehicle, which is generally indicated by the reference number2. InFIG.1, the vehicle2is a semi-trailer truck mechanically connected to the trailer1. It will be understood that the illustrated vehicle2is exemplary only and any type of vehicle is contemplated to be represented by the illustrated vehicle. Exemplary vehicles considered suitable herein include motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, cars, sport utility vehicles (SUV), pickup trucks, vans, recreational vehicles, commercial trucks, and any other vehicles of the like for the purpose of towing a trailer.

Still referring toFIG.1, the trailer1may include a main body10. The main body10may be operably engaged with a frame3of the trailer1. The frame3includes at least one wheel and/or tire4operably engaged with the frame3for suitable moving and transporting the trailer1with the vehicle2. The frame3may include any suitable components and/or assemblies for loading and unloading material or matter from the main body10, parking and maintaining the trailer1when disconnected from the vehicle2, providing energy or power to the trailer when disconnected from the vehicle2, and other suitable components and/or assemblies of the like.

Referring toFIGS.1and2, the main body10may have a front end10A, an opposing rear end10B, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The main body10also has a first side or left side10C, an opposing second side or right side10D, and a transverse axis defined therebetween. The main body10also has a top end10E, an opposing bottom end10F, and a vertical axis defined therebetween. The main body10also includes an exterior wall or circumferential wall12that extends from the front end10A to the rear end10B along the longitudinal axis. The circumferential wall12also operably engages with frame3for maintaining the main body10with the frame3.

Referring toFIG.1, the main body10may include a front bulkhead14operably engaged with the circumferential wall12at the front end10A of the main body10proximate to the vehicle2. The main body10may also include an opposing rear bulkhead16(seeFIGS.4B and5) operably engaged with the circumferential wall12at the rear end10B of the main body10. Additionally, the circumferential wall12, the front bulkhead14, and the rear bulkhead16may collectively define at least one interior chamber17that extends from the front bulkhead14to the rear bulkhead16(seeFIG.5).

The at least one interior chamber17may be accessible at various location along the main body10for loading material into the at least one interior chamber17and/or and for unloading product or material from the at least one interior chamber17. As illustrated inFIG.1, a piping system “PS” of the trailer1may be in fluid communication with the at least one interior chamber17of the main body10for loading material into the at least one interior chamber17and for unloading product or material from the at least one interior chamber17. In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable number of inlets and outlets may be defined in the main body10for loading material into the at least one interior chamber17and for unloading product or material from the at least one interior chamber17.

While the main body10defines at least one interior chamber17accessible by the piping system “PS”, any suitable number of interior chambers may be defined by the main body and accessible by any suitable number of pipes in a piping system. In one exemplary embodiment, a main body may include an interior bulkhead positioned between a front bulkhead and a rear bulkhead where the main body defines a first interior chamber between the front bulkhead and the interior bulkhead and a second interior chamber between the rear bulkhead and the interior bulkhead. In another exemplary embodiment, a main body may include a plurality of interior bulkheads positioned between a front bulkhead and a rear bulkhead where the main body defines a plurality of interior chambers between each interior bulkhead, the front bulkhead, and the rear bulkhead.

Referring toFIGS.1-4B, the main body10may include a trough18. The trough18may be operably engaged with the main body10along the top end10E of the main body10. The trough18may extend between the front and rear ends10A,10B of the main body10. In the illustrated embodiment, the trough18extends beyond the rear bulkhead16(seeFIGS.4B-5). The trough18may also extend beyond the front bulkhead14and the rear bulkhead16of the main body10. The trough18may define a channel18A that extends along the entire length of the trough18parallel to the longitudinal axis of the trailer1. The channel18A defined by the trough18may be configured to gather and capture liquid or fluid that enters into the channel18A. For example, the trough18may gather or collect rainwater or other forms of precipitation in the channel18A. Additionally, the trough18may be configured to convey rainwater or other forms of precipitation in liquid form from the top end10E of the main body10towards an on-board drainage system of the trailer1, which is described in more detail below.

Referring toFIG.5, the trough18may define a plurality of through-holes18B at the rear end10B of the main body10. The plurality of through-holes18B defined by the trough18may be configured to receive and house a set of brake lights19where the set of brake lights19is operably engaged with the trough18. In the illustrated embodiment, the set of brake lights19operably engaged with the trough18is used as the third brake light for the trailer1.

In the illustrated embodiment, the main body10may be made of a first material, which includes the circumferential wall12, the front bulkhead14, the rear bulkhead16, and the trough18. As such, the main body10may be made from a metal material, specifically aluminum. Additionally, the circumferential wall12, the front bulkhead14, the rear bulkhead16, and the trough18may be made from aluminum material. In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable metal material may be used to make a main body (and its associated components) for a trailer described and illustrated herein.

Referring toFIGS.1and3-6D, the trailer1includes an attachment portion30operably engaged with the circumferential wall12of the main body10. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment portion30may be a portion of the circumferential wall12that extends beyond the rear bulkhead16and remote from the interior chamber17. In other words, the attachment portion30and the circumferential wall12are a single, unitary member include on the trailer1. In other exemplary embodiment, an attachment portion may be separate member from a circumferential wall of a main body. As illustrated inFIGS.4B-5, the attachment portion30may include a front end30A proximate to the rear end10B of the main body10and an opposing rear end30B. The attachment portion30may also include a first side or left side30C proximate to the left side10C of the main body10and an opposing second side or right side30D proximate to the right side10D of the main body10. The attachment portion30may also include a top end30E proximate to the top end10E of the main body10and an opposing bottom end30F proximate to the bottom end10F of the main body10.

The attachment portion30may also include an inner surface32that extends from the front end30A to the rear end30B. The attachment portion30may also include an opposing outer surface34that extends from the front end30A to the rear end30B. In the illustrated embodiment, the outer surface34of the attachment portion30is continuous and uninterrupted with the outer surface of the circumferential wall12. The attachment portion30also defines a central passageway36that is defined between the front and rear ends30A,30B of the attachment portion30.

Referring toFIGS.6A-6D, the attachment portion30defines a circumferential groove38. The circumferential groove38defined in the attachment portion30extends into the attachment portion30from the outer surface34towards the inner surface32. The circumferential groove38may also be defined between the front end30A and the rear end30B of the attachment portion30proximate to the rear end30B of the attachment portion30. The circumferential groove38may be continuous and uninterrupted along the entire length of the attachment portion30. In other exemplary embodiments, a plurality of discrete circumferential grooves may be defined in an attachment portion of a trailer. Such use and purpose of the circumferential groove38is described in more detail below.

As illustrated inFIGS.1-6D, a false bulkhead assembly40may be operably engaged with the attachment portion30. The false bulkhead assembly40may be adapted to be removable between a disengaged position (seeFIGS.4B and6A) and an engaged position (seeFIGS.1-4A,5,5A, and6B-6D) with the attachment portion30. In the illustrated embodiment, the false bulkhead assembly may include a flexible bulkhead (described below) that is made of a different material than the main body10and its associated components (i.e., circumferential wall12, front bulkhead14, rear bulkhead16, and trough18).

Referring toFIGS.4A-4B, the false bulkhead assembly40may include a frame42. The frame42may be adapted to be operably engaged with the attachment portion30between the disengaged position and the engaged position described above. As illustrated inFIGS.4A-4B, the frame42may include a front end42A and an opposing rear end42B. The frame42may also include a first side or left side42C and an opposing second side or right side42D. The frame42may also include a top end42E and an opposing bottom end42F.

Referring toFIGS.4B-6B, the frame42may include a circumferential base wall44. Referring toFIGS.6A-6B, the circumferential base wall44may have a front end44A proximate to the front end42A of the frame42and an opposing rear end44B proximate to the rear end42B of the frame42. Still referring toFIGS.6A-6B, the circumferential base wall44may include an inner surface46that extends along the front end44A of the circumferential base wall44facing in a direction towards the rear bulkhead16. The circumferential base wall44may also include an opposing outer surface48that extends along the rear end44B of the circumferential base wall44facing in an opposing direction away from the rear bulkhead16.

As illustrated inFIGS.6A-6B, the circumferential base wall44may include a clip50. The clip50may be circumferentially disposed about the entire length of the circumferential base wall44. The clip50may include a support arm52that extends radially away from the circumferential base wall44proximate to the rear end44B of the circumferential wall44. The clip50may also include an attachment arm54that has a front end54A remote from the support arm52and an opposing second end54B operably engaged with the support arm52. In the illustrated embodiment, the circumferential base wall44, the support arm52, and the attachment arm54may be a unibody, monolithic member that is continuous and uninterrupted. In one exemplary embodiment, a circumferential base wall, a support arm, and an attachment arm may be separate members from one another. In the illustrated embodiment, the support arm52and the attachment arm54are flexible and/or resilient between a bending position (seeFIG.6A) and a straight position (seeFIG.6B) when operably engaging the frame42with the attachment portion30.

Still referring toFIGS.6A-6B, the clip50may also include a protrusion56on the attachment arm54. The protrusion56may be positioned at the front end54A of the attachment arm54and may extend away from the attachment arm54towards the base member44. The protrusion56may be configured to operably engage with the attachment portion30, specifically inside of the circumferential groove38of the attachment portion30. During operation, the protrusion56is slideably inserted into the circumferential groove38of the attachment portion30where the protrusion56is positioned orthogonal to the attachment portion30when the clip50is operably engaged with the attachment portion30.

The structural configuration between the attachment portion30and the clip50of the frame42is considered advantageous at least because the orthogonal arrangement between the attachment portion30and the clip50prevents the false bulkhead assembly40from disengaging from the attachment portion30when being towed by vehicle2. In other words, orthogonal arrangement between the attachment portion30and the clip50prevents the false bulkhead assembly40from disengaging from the attachment portion30when an airstream passes over the false bulkhead assembly40when being towed by vehicle2. As such, the protrusion56of the clip50provides lateral support to maintain the clip50with the attachment portion30inside of the circumferential groove38. Such actions of assembling the false bulkhead assembly40with the attachment portion30and disassembling of the false bulkhead assembly40from the attachment portion30are described in more detail.

In the illustrated embodiment, the frame42interlockingly engages with the attachment frame30via the clip50of the frame42and the circumferential groove38defined by the attachment frame30. Specifically, the frame43interlockingly engages with the attachment frame30via a snap-fit mechanism, particularly a cantilever snap-fit mechanism. In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable structural arrangement may be used to operably engage a frame of a false bulkhead assembly with an attachment portion of a trailer. Examples of operably engaging a frame to an attachment portion include attaching, affixing, binding, clamping, coupling, connecting, fastening, fixing, latching, linking, locking, mounting, press-fitting, ratcheting, riveting, securing, welding, and other suitable examples of operably engaging a frame of a false bulkhead assembly with an attachment portion of a trailer.

In the illustrated embodiment, the frame42of the false bulkhead assembly40operably engages inside of the attachment portion30proximate to the outer surface34of the attachment portion30. In one exemplary embodiment, a frame of the false bulkhead assembly may operably engage inside of an attachment portion proximate to an inner surface of the attachment portion. In another exemplary embodiment, a frame of the false bulkhead assembly may operably engage inside of an attachment portion between inner and outer surfaces of the attachment portion. In yet another exemplary embodiment, a frame of the false bulkhead assembly may operably engage with an attachment portion on an inner surface of the attachment portion. In yet another exemplary embodiment, a frame of the false bulkhead assembly may operably engage with an attachment portion on an outer surface of the attachment portion. In yet another exemplary embodiment, a frame of the false bulkhead assembly may operably engage with an attachment portion on both inner and outer surfaces of the attachment portion.

Still referring toFIGS.6A-6B, a channel58may be collectively defined by the circumferential base wall44, the support arm52, and the attachment arm54. The channel58may be configured to receive a portion of the attachment portion30that extends from the rear end30B towards the front end30A. During operation, the rear end30B of the attachment portion30may initially operably engage with the inner surface46the circumferential base wall44the protrusion56of the clip50. The attachment portion30and the frame42may be interlocked with one another once the protrusion56operably engages with the attachment portion30inside of the circumferential groove38and the rear end30B of the attachment portion30directly abuts the support arm52. The channel58collectively defined by the circumferential base wall44, the support arm52, and the attachment arm54allows for a portion of the attachment portion30to operably engage with the circumferential base wall44, the support arm52, and the attachment arm54to provide further structural support and rigidity between the attachment portion30and the false bulkhead assembly40once assembled together.

Referring toFIGS.6A-6D, the circumferential base wall44may include a front projection60A extending away from the circumferential base wall44and an opposing rear projection60B extending away from the circumferential base wall44. The front and rear projections60A,60B may be extending along the entire length of the circumferential base wall44where the front and rear projections60A,60B are continuous and uninterrupted. The rear projection60B may define a sloped surface61that extends from the rear end44B of the circumferential base wall44towards the front end44A of the circumferential base wall44. As illustrated inFIGS.6C-FIG.6D, a recess62is defined between the front and rear projections60A,60B by an interior wall64. In addition, the recess62may have a first diameter “D1” that is defined between the front projection60A and the rear projection60B. Such use and purpose of the recess62is described in more detail below.

As illustrated inFIGS.2,4A-5, and6C-6D, the false bulkhead assembly40may include a cover70that is operably engaged with the frame42. The cover70may be adapted to be removable from the frame42for replacing the cover70with a new, different cover for various reasons (stated below). The cover70is also adapted to be made from a material that is flexible and resilient. In one exemplary embodiment, a cover may be made a fibrous material that is flexible and resilient. Examples of suitable fibrous material for a cover include synthetic polymeric fibers, metallic fibers, ceramic fibers, and other suitable types of fibrous material of the like may be used based on particular applications of the cover.

The cover70may include an interior surface72, an opposing exterior surface74, and an outermost edge76that is disposed circumferentially about the cover70between the front and rear surfaces72,74. The cover70may also be adapted to provide graphics78on the exterior surface74of the cover70facing rearwardly away from the trailer1. As illustrated inFIGS.2-4B, the graphics78may display any suitable print, engraving, etching, photograph, design, or any other suitable visual art or typographical marking of the like. Such use of the graphics78on the cover70is considered advantageous at least because the graphics78may provide advertising and marketing methods for a company using said false bulkhead assembly40on the trailer1. As such, the graphics78may be custom to a specific entity or product that displays a company's or product name, a company's trademark, or any other suitable use for advertising and marketing a specific company or a specific product being hauled in a tank trailer or tank vehicle like trailer1.

As illustrated inFIGS.6C-6D, the false bulkhead assembly40may include a retaining member80. The retaining member80may be configured to retain and hold a portion of the cover70inside of the recess62of the circumferential base wall44. As illustrated inFIGS.6C-6D, the retaining member80may include a plurality of points or tips82to define a star-shaped cross-section. The plurality of tips82allows the retaining member80to adequately retain the cover70inside of the recess62by operably engaging with the interior wall64. In other exemplary embodiments, the retaining member80may define any suitable cross-sectional shape or configuration for operably engaging the cover70with the circumferential base wall44. Examples of suitable cross-sectional shapes or configurations for a retaining member include triangular, circular, semi-circular, square, rectangular, pentagonal, hexagonal, octagonal, and other suitable cross-sectional shapes or configurations for a retaining member to maintain a cover with a circumferential base wall. Moreover, the retaining member80made be formed of an elastic or resilient material that allows the retaining member80to transition its size, shape, or configuration when operably engaged with the circumferential base wall44inside of the recess62. Such transformation of retaining member80is described in more detail below.

As illustrated inFIG.6C, the retaining member80may define a second diameter “D2” when disengaged with the circumferential base wall44. In the illustrated embodiment, the second diameter “D2” of the retaining member80that is greater than the first diameter “D1” defining the recess62. Such difference in diameters between the retaining member80and the recess62of the circumferential base wall44allows the retaining member80to suitable retain a portion of the cover70circumferentially about the frame42. During assembly of the false bulkhead assembly40, the retaining member80may transform from a second diameter “D2” to a third diameter “D3” (seeFIG.6D), which is less than the second diameter “D2” yet substantially equal to the first diameter “D1” of the recess62. Such transformation of the retaining member80occurs due to its elastic and/or resilient material transforming when engaged with the interior wall64inside of the recess62. If, however, the retaining member80is removed from the circumferential base wall44, the retaining member80may transform from the third diameter “D3” to the second diameter “D2” due to its elastic and/or resilient tendencies.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cover70is press-fitted into the circumferential base wall44of the frame42via the retaining member80. In other exemplary embodiments, a cover of a false bulkhead assembly may be operably engaged with a circumferential base wall of a frame in any suitable configuration. Examples of operably engaging a cover of a false bulkhead assembly with a circumferential base wall of a frame include attaching, affixing, binding, clamping, coupling, connecting, fastening, fixing, interlocking, latching, linking, locking, mounting, ratcheting, riveting, securing, welding, and other suitable ways of operably engaging a cover of a false bulkhead assembly with a circumferential base wall of a frame.

The structural configuration between the cover70and the retaining member80is considered advantageous at least because the cover70may be interchangeable with another, different cover when removing and reinstalling the retaining member80into the frame42. By having this structural configuration, a user of the false bulkhead assembly40may be able to change the cover70with another different cover due to various considerations, including removing the current cover70due to cover70being deteriorated or fade, updating the company name or company logo with a new cover, and other considerations of the like. In one instance, a first cover may be installed with a frame of a false bulkhead assembly having first graphics, and a second cover, different than the first cover, may be installed with the frame of the false bulkhead assembly having second graphics where the first cover is removed from the false bulkhead assembly.

As illustrated inFIG.5, an exterior chamber90may be defined between the rear bulkhead16of the main body10and the cover70once the false bulkhead assembly40is fully assembled and the operably engaged with the attachment portion30as described above. While not illustrated herein, the exterior chamber90may be housed with trailer accessories and/or devices that are concealed by the false bulkhead assembly40and exterior to the interior chamber17. In one instance, electrical wiring, mechanical lines, and other similar devices or components may be housed inside of the exterior chamber90such that these devices and components are hidden exterior to the interior chamber17. Such routing of trailer devices and components exterior to the interior chamber17of the main body10prevents hazardous material or product loaded inside of the interior chamber17to interact with electrical or mechanical components. Such isolation of electrical or mechanical components from the interior chamber17may prevent electrical shortages or mechanical issues caused by the hazardous material or product loaded inside of the interior chamber17. In another instance, the exterior chamber90may provide a drainage chamber for exterior drainage systems of the trailer1and may conceal any stains or grime on the rear bulkhead16created by accumulated precipitation dripping on the rear bulkhead16.

Having now described the components and assemblies of the trailer1with the false bulkhead assembly40, a method of use and operation of the trailer1with the false bulkhead assembly40is described below.

Prior to a towing operation, the false bulkhead assembly40may be introduced to the attachment portion30of the trailer1. As illustrated inFIG.6A, the front end42A of the frame42is linearly moved towards the rear end30B of the attachment portion30to operably engage the false bulkhead assembly40with the attachment portion30. The linear movement of the frame42is denoted by an arrow labeled “LM1” inFIG.6A. Upon introduction of the frame42, the clip50begins to transition from a straight position to a bent position upon contacting the attachment portion30. Specifically, the support arm52and the attachment arm54begin to transition from the straight position (FIG.6B) to the bent position (FIG.6A) upon contacting the attachment portion30.

The frame42may continue to be laterally moved along the attachment portion30until the rear end30B of the attachment portion30directly abuts the support arm52inside of the channel58(seeFIG.66). Additionally, frame42may continue to be laterally moved along the attachment portion30until the protrusion56operably engages with the attachment portion30inside of the circumferential groove38(seeFIG.66). As illustrated inFIG.6B, the protrusion56of the attachment portion30moves upwardly into the circumferential groove38of the attachment portion30once the protrusion56is directly over the circumferential groove38and is no longer impeded by the attachment portion30. The upward linear movement of the attachment arm54is denoted by an arrow labeled “LM2” shown inFIG.6B. This process of laterally moving the frame42on the attachment portion30is continued until the protrusion56is fully seated about the entire circumference of the attachment portion30. As illustrated inFIG.6B, the frame42of the false bulkhead assembly40is operably engaged with the attachment portion30.

Prior to a towing operation, the cover70may be operably engaged with the frame42via the retaining member80. As illustrated inFIG.6C, a portion of the cover70measured from the outermost end76of the cover70towards the central point of the cover70may be introduced to the circumferential base wall44. Additionally, the retaining member80may also be introduced to the circumferential base wall44. Prior to engagement with the frame42, the retaining member80defines the second diameter “D2” as described above.

Once introduced, the portion of the cover70may be downwardly inserted into the recess62of the circumferential base wall44between the front and rear projections60A,60B. During the insertion of the cover70, the retaining member80may also be downwardly inserted into the recess62of the circumferential base wall44between the front and rear projections60A,60B. The downward linear insertion of the retaining member80is denoted by an arrow labeled “LM3” inFIG.6D. During this insertion, the retaining member80transforms from the second diameter “D2” to the third diameter “D3” when operably engaging with the interior wall64between the first and second projections60A,60B. The plurality of tips82of the retaining member80is also pressed inwardly via the interior wall64of the circumferential base wall44. Such transformation of the retaining member80allows for suitable retention between the cover70and the frame42when the trailer1is being towed by the vehicle2. As illustrated inFIG.6D, the cover70of the false bulkhead assembly40is operably engaged with the frame42of the false bulkhead assembly40.

As stated above, the false bulkhead assembly40is removable from the attachment portion30for various reasons, including obtaining access to exterior chamber90, obtaining access to the rear bulkhead, and other various reasons of the like. In this situation, the attachment arm54is moved downwardly away from the attachment portion30until the protrusion56is outside of the circumferential groove38and disengaged from the attachment portion30. Once the protrusion56is disengaged from the attachment portion30, the frame32, including the cover70and retaining member80, may be moved rearwardly away from the attachment portion30and away from the trailer1.

Additionally, the cover70may be removed for a new cover for various reasons, including the current cover being damaged, replacing the current cover with another cover having a new typographical print or design, and other various reasons of the like. Such removal of the cover70may be performed when the frame42of the false bulkhead assembly40is still operably engaged with the attachment portion30or when the frame42of the false bulkhead assembly40is operably disengaged from the attachment portion30. In this situation, the retaining member80is moved upwardly away from the recess62until the entire retaining member80is disengaged from the interior wall64and the cover70. Once disengaged, the cover70is also moved upwardly away from the recess62until the entire cover70is disengaged from the interior wall64. Upon successful removal of the cover70and the retaining member80from the frame42, a new cover with the retaining member80may be introduced to and inserted into the recess62in the same process stated above. In one exemplary embodiment, a new retaining member substantially similar to retaining member80may be inserted with the new cover.

While the false bulkhead assembly40is operably engaged with a trailer or towed vehicle1, a false bulkhead assembly described and illustrated herein may be operably engaged to any suitable vehicle or transportation machine. Examples of suitable vehicles or transportation machines that be configured to operably engaged with a false bulkhead assembly include motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, cars, sport utility vehicles (SUV), pickup trucks, vans, recreational vehicles, commercial trucks, semi-trailer trucks, tank vehicles, and any other similar vehicles.

FIG.7illustrates a method100flowchart for concealing a bulkhead of a vehicle. An initial step102of method100includes providing a false bulkhead assembly including a frame and a cover. Another step104includes engaging the frame with an attachment portion of the vehicle. Another step106includes hiding a region of the vehicle with the cover.

In an exemplary embodiment, method100may include additional steps for concealing a bulkhead of a vehicle. Optional steps include engaging a clip of the frame with the attachment portion; securing a cover with the frame via a retaining member; and concealing the rear bulkhead of the vehicle via the false bulkhead assembly. Optional steps include inserting a portion of the cover into a recess defined by the clip of the frame; inserting a retaining member into the recess defined by the clip of the frame; and retaining the portion of the cover, via the retaining member, within the recess of the clip. Optional steps include introducing a false bulkhead assembly to a main body of a trailer; securing a clip of the false bulkhead into the attachment portion; securing a first cover with the false bulkhead assembly; and concealing the rear bulkhead and the electrical wiring of the trailer via the false bulkhead assembly. Optional steps may further provide the steps of moving an attachment arm of the clip on the attachment portion; inserting the attachment portion into a channel defined by the clip; bending the attachment arm of the clip from a straight position to a bent position; and inserting a protrusion of the attachment arm into a circumferential groove defined in the attachment portion. An optional step may further provide that the step of inserting a protrusion of the attachment arm into a circumferential groove defined in the attachment portion further includes the protrusion being orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the attachment portion. Optional steps may further provide the steps of introducing a portion of the first cover into a recess defined by the clip of the false bulkhead assembly; inserting a retaining member into the recess defined by the clip of the false bulkhead assembly; and retaining the portion of the first cover, via the retaining member, within the recess of the clip. An optional step may further provide that the first cover includes a first typographical printing. Optional steps may further provide the steps of removing the retaining member from the recess and the first cover; removing the first cover from the recess; introducing a portion of a second cover into the recess defined by the clip of the false bulkhead assembly, wherein second cover includes a second typographical printing different than the first typographical printing; inserting the retaining member into the recess defined by the clip of the false bulkhead assembly; and retaining the portion of second first cover, via the retaining member, within the recess of the clip. An optional step may further provide a step of effecting to conceal drainage of precipitation in an exterior chamber defined between a rear bulkhead of a main body and the false bulkhead assembly.