In yet another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a tank vehicle. The tank vehicle includes a main body that has a front bulkhead, a rear bulkhead opposite to the front bulkhead, an exterior wall operably engaged with the front bulkhead and the rear bulkhead, and at least one interior chamber defined collectively by the front bulkhead, the rear bulkhead, and the exterior wall, wherein the at least one interior chamber being adapted to carry a load. The tank vehicle also includes a false bulkhead that is removably engaged with the main body, the false bulkhead is located a distance away from one of the front bulkhead and the rear bulkhead. The tank vehicle also includes a rear lighting assembly that is operably engaged with one of the rear bulkhead and the false bulkhead. The main body is capable of concealing drainage of precipitation exterior to the at least one interior chamber between the rear bulkhead and the false bulkhead.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include an extension wall operably engaged with the exterior wall; wherein the extension wall extends outwardly away from one of the front bulkhead and the rear bulkhead and is configured to drain precipitation exterior to the at least one interior chamber between the rear bulkhead and the false bulkhead. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include an exterior chamber defined by the false bulkhead, the extension wall, and one of the front bulkhead and the rear bulkhead for concealing drainage of precipitation from a top end of the main body to a bottom end of the main body; wherein the exterior chamber is defined exterior to the interior chamber of the main body. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the rear lighting assembly comprises: at least one signaling device operably engaged with one of the rear bulkhead and the false bulkhead; wherein the at least one signaling device is configured to emit a set of indicator lights through the false bulkhead to indicate travel of the tank vehicle. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a first material that makes the main body; and a second material that makes the false bulkhead, wherein the second material is different than the first material. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a first material forming the rear bulkhead; and a second material forming the false bulkhead and is different than the first material; wherein the first material is configured to enable each indicator light of the set of indicator lights emitted by the rear lighting assembly to be directed towards the false bulkhead; and wherein the second material is configured to transmit each indicator light of the set of indicator lights. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the extension wall further comprises: an outer surface extending between a first end of the extension wall and a second end of the extension wall; and an inner surface extending between the first end and the second end that is opposite to the outer surface and that is in communication with the rear bulkhead; wherein the inner surface and the rear bulkhead collectively define a cavity for housing the at least one signaling device when the false bulkhead is removed. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the extension wall further comprises: an outer surface extending between a first end and a second end; and an inner surface extending between the first end and the second end that is opposite to the outer surface and that is in communication with the rear bulkhead; wherein the inner surface, the rear bulkhead, and the false bulkhead collectively define the exterior chamber for housing the at least one signaling device. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include at least one upper drain opening defined in the extension wall; wherein the extension wall is configured to drain precipitation through the exterior chamber at the at least one upper drain opening. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include at least one lower drain opening defined in the extension wall and is vertically below the at least one upper drain opening; wherein the extension wall is configured to drain precipitation through the exterior chamber at the at least one upper drain opening and the at least one lower drain opening. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a divider operably engaged with the rear bulkhead and spaced apart from the false bulkhead; wherein the divider separates the at least one signaling device and at least another signaling device of the rear lighting assembly from one another. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the divider comprises: a first end operably engaged with the rear bulkhead and a second end opposite to the first end and spaced apart from the rear bulkhead; a first side wall extending between the first end and the second end that faces towards a first portion of the inner surface of the extension wall; and a second side wall extending between the first end and the second end that faces towards a second portion of the inner surface of the extension wall; wherein the first side wall and the second side wall face in opposing directions. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a first compartment collectively defined by the rear bulkhead, the inner surface of the extension wall, and the first side wall of the divider; and a second compartment collectively defined by the rear bulkhead, the inner surface of the extension wall, and the second side wall of the divider; wherein the at least one signaling device is located inside of the first compartment and the at least another signaling device is located inside of the second compartment. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include at least one upper drain opening defined in the extension wall; at least one lower drain opening defined in the extension wall and is vertically below the at least one upper drain opening; wherein the at least one upper drain opening and the at least one lower drain opening are defined inside one of the first compartment and the second compartment. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a mounting wall extending inwardly from the inner surface of the extension wall at a location between the first end of the extension wall and the second end of the extension wall; wherein the extension wall and the mounting wall are configured to receive and operably engage with the false bulkhead.

In yet another aspect, an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure may provide a method. The method includes steps of sending a travel response to a rear lighting assembly of a tank vehicle; emitting a set of indicating lights, by a signaling device of the rear lighting assembly, through a false bulkhead of the tank vehicle; signaling a plurality of driving states of the tank vehicle when in travel; and concealing drainage of precipitation exterior to at least one interior chamber defined between a rear bulkhead of the tank vehicle and the false bulkhead.

This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the step of emitting the set of indicating lights through the false bulkhead further includes that the set of indicating lights is transmitted through the false bulkhead free from obstructing a view of the signaling device. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the step of emitting the set of indicating lights through the false bulkhead further includes that the set of indicating lights is diffused through the false bulkhead to obstruct a view of the signaling device. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include that the step of concealing drainage of precipitation exterior to the at least one interior chamber further comprises: draining the precipitation through at least one upper drain opening defined in an extension wall of the tank vehicle and into an exterior chamber defined between the rear bulkhead and the false bulkhead external to the at least one interior chamber; and draining the precipitation through at least one lower drain opening defined in the extension wall of the tank vehicle from the exterior chamber. This exemplary embodiment or another exemplary embodiment may further include a step of reflecting at least one indicating light of the set of indicating lights, by the rear bulkhead of the tank vehicle, towards the false bulkhead.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Sample embodiments of the present disclosure are set forth in the following description, are shown in the drawings and are particularly and distinctly pointed out and set forth in the appended claims.

FIG. 1 is left side elevation view of a trailer operably engaged with a vehicle, wherein the trailer is equipped with a drainage system in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a rear elevation view of the trailer equipped with the drainage system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3A is a partial top plan view of the trailer equipped with the drainage system taken in the direction of line 3A-3A shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3B is a partial top plan view of the trailer equipped with the drainage system taken in the direction of line 3B-3B shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4A is a partial top, rear, left side isometric perspective view of the trailer equipped with the drainage system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4B is an exploded perspective view of the trailer equipped with the drainage system, wherein a rear false bulkhead of the drainage system is removed from the trailer.

FIG. 4C is an exploded perspective view of the trailer equipped with the drainage system, wherein a conduit of the drainage system is removed from the trailer.

FIG. 5 is a partial sectional view of the trailer equipped with the drainage system taken in the direction of line 5-5 shown in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5A is an enlargement of the highlighted region in FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 is a partial sectional view of the trailer equipped with the drainage system taken in the direction of line 6-6 shown in FIG. 3A, wherein rainwater is accumulated in a trough of the trailer.

FIG. 7 is an operational view of the trailer equipped with the drainage system shown in FIG. 1, wherein rainwater drains from upper openings defined in a drainage portion to lower openings defined in the drainage portion of the drainage system, and wherein the rear false bulkhead is removed from the trailer for viewing the drainage operation.

FIG. 8 is a partial top, rear, left side perspective isometric view of another trailer equipped with a drainage system in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a partial sectional view of the trailer equipped with the drainage system in FIG. 8 taken in the direction of line 9-9 shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is an operational view of the trailer equipped with the drainage system shown in FIG. 8, wherein rainwater drains from the trough to a gutter of the drainage system and away from the trailer.

FIG. 11A is a partial top, rear, second side isometric perspective view of a trailer equipped with a rear lighting assembly in accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11B is an exploded perspective view of the trailer equipped with the rear lighting assembly shown in FIG. 11A, wherein a false bulkhead of the rear lighting assembly is removed from the trailer and is made of translucent material.

FIG. 12 is a rear elevation view of the trailer equipped with the rear lighting assembly shown in FIG. 11A, wherein the false bulkhead of the rear lighting assembly is removed from the trailer.

FIG. 13A is an operational view of the trailer equipped with the false bulkhead shown in FIG. 11B, wherein at least two signaling device of the rear lighting assembly emit a running light signal through the false bulkhead.

FIG. 13B is another operational view of the trailer equipped with the false bulkhead shown in FIG. 11B, but a first signaling device of the rear lighting assembly emits a first turning indicator light to indicate a first direction of travel for the trailer.

FIG. 13C is another operational view of the trailer equipped with the false bulkhead shown in FIG. 11B, but a second signaling device of the rear lighting assembly emits a second turning indicator light to indicate a second direction of travel for the trailer.

FIG. 13D is another operational view of the trailer equipped with the false bulkhead shown in FIG. 11B, but both the first and second signaling devices of the rear lighting assembly emits a braking indicator light to indicate a braking or deceleration of the trailer.

FIG. 13E is another operational view of the trailer equipped with the false bulkhead shown in FIG. 11B, but at least two reverse signaling device of the rear lighting assembly emit reverse light signals through the false bulkhead.

FIG. 14 is a rear elevation view of the trailer equipped with an alternative false bulkhead of the rear lighting assembly.

FIG. 15 is an exemplary method flowchart.

Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a trailer or towed vehicle, which is generally indicated by the reference number 1. The trailer 1 illustrated in FIG. 1 is a tank trailer. It will be understood that the illustrated trailer 1 is 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 in FIG. 1, the trailer 1 has a front end 1A, an opposing rear end 1B, and a longitudinal direction defined therebetween where the trailer 1 may travel forwardly and backwardly along the longitudinal direction when operably engaged with a towing vehicle (described below). The trailer 1 also has a first side or left side 1C, an opposing second side or right side 1D, and a transverse direction defined therebetween where the trailer 1 may travel laterally (i.e., turning left and/or right) along the transverse direction when operably engaged with a towing vehicle (described below). The trailer 1 also has a top end 1E, an opposing bottom end 1F, and a vertical direction defined therebetween for draining accumulated precipitation, which is described in more detail below.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the trailer 1 may be mechanically connected to a vehicle or towing vehicle, which is generally indicated by the reference number 2. In FIG. 1, the vehicle 2 is a semi-truck mechanically connected to the trailer 1. It will be understood that the illustrated vehicle 2 is 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 to FIG. 1, the trailer 1 may include a main body 10. The main body 10 may be operably engaged with a frame 3 of the trailer 1. The frame 3 includes at least one wheel and/or tire 4 operably engaged with the frame 3 for suitable moving and transporting the trailer 1 with the vehicle 2. The frame 3 may include any suitable components and/or assemblies for loading and unloading cargo or a load from the main body 10, parking or maintaining the trailer 1 when disconnected from the vehicle 2, providing energy or power to the trailer when disconnected from the vehicle 2, and other suitable components and/or assemblies of the like.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the main body 10 may have a front end 10A, an opposing rear end 10B, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The main body 10 also has a first side or left side 10C, an opposing second side or right side 10D, and a transverse axis defined therebetween. The main body 10 also has a top end 10E, an opposing bottom end 10F, and a vertical axis defined therebetween. The main body 10 also includes a circumferential wall or exterior wall 12 that extends from the front end 10A to the rear end 10B along the longitudinal axis. The circumferential wall 12 also operably engages with frame 3 for maintaining the main body 10 with the frame 3.

Referring to FIG. 3B, the main body 10 may include a front bulkhead 14 operably engaged with the circumferential wall 12 at the front end 10A of the main body 10 proximate to the vehicle 2. The main body 10 may also include an opposing rear bulkhead 16 (see FIGS. 3A and 4B-7) operably engaged with the circumferential wall 12 at the rear end 10B of the main body 10. Additionally, the circumferential wall 12, the front bulkhead 14, and the rear bulkhead 16 may collectively define at least one interior chamber 17 that extends from the front bulkhead 14 to the rear bulkhead 16.

The at least one interior chamber 17 may be accessible at various location along the main body 10 for loading cargo into the at least one interior chamber 17 and/or and for unloading cargo from the at least one interior chamber 17. As illustrated in FIG. 1, a piping system “PS” of the trailer 1 may be in fluid communication with the at least one interior chamber 17 of the main body 10 for loading cargo into the at least one interior chamber 17 and for unloading cargo from the at least one interior chamber 17. In other exemplary embodiments, any suitable number of inlets and outlets may be defined in the main body 10 for loading cargo into the at least one interior chamber 17 and for unloading cargo from the at least one interior chamber 17.

While the main body 10 defines at least one interior chamber 17 accessible 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 to FIGS. 1-7, the trailer 1 includes a drainage system 20 in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure. The drainage system 20 may conceal or mask any potential stains or rust created on one or both of the front bulkhead 14 and rear bulkhead 16 via rainwater or other forms of liquid precipitation (e.g., melted ice, snow, sleet, and other forms of liquid precipitation). Drainage system 20 is operably engaged with the main body 10. The drainage system 20 is positioned exterior to the at least one interior chamber 17 of the main body 10 in which fluid or liquid is conveyed or drained outside of the interior chamber 17 and away from the trailer 1. As illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3B, the drainage system 20 may be configured for concealing drainage of fluid or liquid (such as rainwater) from the trough 21 to the bottom end of the main body 10 and away from the trailer 1. The drainage system 20 is considered advantageous at least because the drainage system 20 may prevent against unwanted stains or blemishes caused by precipitation dripping down the exposed front bulkhead 14 or rear bulkhead 16.

Referring to FIGS. 1-4A, the drainage system 20 may include a trough 21. The trough 21 may be operably engaged with the main body 10 along the top end 10E of the main body 10. The trough 21 may extend between the front and rear ends 10A, 10B of the main body 10. The trough 21 may also extend beyond the front bulkhead 14 and the rear bulkhead 16 of the main body 10, which is described in more detail below.

As illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3B, the trough 21 may include a front wall 21A, an opposing rear wall 21B, a first side or left wall 21C, and an opposing second side or right wall 21D. The trough 21 may define a channel 21E collectively by the front wall 21A, rear wall 21B, left wall 21C, and right wall 21D. The channel 21E also extends along the entire length of the trough 21 parallel to the longitudinal axis of the trailer 1. The channel 21E defined by the trough 21 may be configured to gather and capture liquid or fluid that enters into the channel 21E. As illustrated in FIGS. 6-7, rainwater “RW” or other forms of precipitation may be gathered and captured in the channel 21E. Additionally, the trough 21 may be configured to convey rainwater “RW” or other forms of precipitation in liquid form from the top end 10E of the main body 10 towards an on-board drainage system, which is described in more detail below.

Referring to FIG. 5, the trough 21 may define a plurality of through-holes 18F at the rear end 10B of the main body 10. The plurality of through-holes 18F defined by the trough 21 may be configured to receive and house a set of brake lights 19 where the set of brake lights 19 is operably engaged with the trough 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the set of brake lights 19 operably engaged with the trough 21 is used as the third brake light for the trailer 1.

In the illustrated embodiment, the main body 10 may be made of a first material, which includes the circumferential wall 12, the front bulkhead 14, the rear bulkhead 16, and the trough 21. As such, the main body 10 may be made from a metal material, specifically aluminum. Additionally, the circumferential wall 12, the front bulkhead 14, the rear bulkhead 16, and the trough 21 may 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.

As illustrated in FIGS. 4B-7, the drainage system 20 may include at least one drainage portion 22 that is operably engaged with the main body 10. More particularly, the at least one drainage portion 22 may be a portion of the circumferential wall 12 of the main body 10. In the illustrated embodiment, a first or front drainage portion 22A of the circumferential wall 12 may extend forwardly away from the front bulkhead 14 parallel to the longitudinal axis of the trailer 1. As illustrated in FIGS. 3A, 4B-5A, and 7, a second or rear drainage portion 22B of the circumferential wall 12 may extend rearwardly away from the rear bulkhead 16 parallel to the longitudinal axis of the trailer 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the circumferential wall 12, the front drainage portion 22A, and the rear drainage portion 22B is a unibody, monolithic member that is continuous and uninterrupted. In one exemplary embodiment, one of a front drainage portion and a rear drainage portion of a drainage system is operably engaged with a circumferential wall of a main body via an attachment mechanism (e.g, joining mechanism, fusing mechanism, welding mechanism, etc.). In another exemplary embodiment, a front drainage portion and a rear drainage portion of a drainage system are operably engaged with a circumferential wall of a main body via attachment mechanisms (e.g, joining mechanisms, fusing mechanisms, welding mechanisms, etc.)

In the illustrated embodiment, the drainage system 20 includes the front drainage portion 22A and the opposing rear drainage portion 22B. The front drainage portion 22A and the opposing rear drainage portion 22B are each adapted or configured to drain accumulated precipitation from the trough 21 and away from the trailer 1 exterior to the interior chamber 17 of the main body 10. Such configuration of the drainage portions 22A, 22B prevents the potential leakage and contamination of accumulated precipitation into the interior chamber 17 of the main body 10 as compared to common drainage solutions in the art. Additionally, the first and second drainage portions 22A, 22B are substantially similar to one another and are positioned with the circumferential wall 12 in a mirrored-image orientation. Inasmuch as the drainage portions 22A, 22B are substantially similar, the following description will relate to the rear drainage portion 22B. It should be understood, however, that the description of the rear drainage portion 22B applies equally to the front drainage portion 22A.

As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the rear drainage portion 22B may include a front end 23A proximate to the rear bulkhead 16 and an opposing rear end 23B remoted from the rear bulkhead 16. The rear drainage portion 22B may also include a first side or left side 23C and an opposing second side or right side 23D. The rear drainage portion 22B may also include a top end 23E and an opposing bottom end 23F. The rear drainage portion 22B may also have an inner surface 24A that is defined circumferentially about the rear drainage portion 22B. The inner surface 24A may extend from the rear bulkhead 16 to the rear end 23B of the rear drainage portion 22B. The rear drainage portion 22B may also have an opposing outer surface 24B that is defined circumferentially about the rear drainage portion 22B. The outer surface 24B may also extend from the rear bulkhead 16 to the rear end 23B of the rear drainage portion 22B. As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 5A, the rear drainage portion 22B may define a first set of attachment openings 26. Each attachment opening of the first set of attachment openings 26 may extend entirely through the rear drainage portion 22B in which the inner surface 24A and the outer surface 24B are in fluid communication with one another through the first set of attachment openings 26. Such use of the first set of attachment openings 26 is described in more detail below.

The drainage system 20 may include at least one upper drain opening 30 defined in rear drainage portion 22B extending entirely through the rear drainage portion 22B. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the drainage system 20 may include a first upper drain opening 30A and an adjacent second upper opening 30B that extend entirely through the rear drainage portion 22B in which the inner surface 24A and the outer surface 24B are in fluid communication with one another through each of the first and second upper drain openings 30A, 30B. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the first and second upper drain openings 30A, 30B are defined proximate to the top end 10E of the main body 10. The first and second upper drain openings 30A, 30B may also be in fluid communication with the trough 21 due to the first and second upper drain openings 30A, 30B being defined inside of the channel 21E of said trough 21. Similarly, third and fourth upper drain openings 30C, 30D defined by the front drainage portion 22A may also be in fluid communication with the trough 21 due to the third and fourth upper drain openings 30C, 30C being defined inside of the channel 21E of said trough 21.

The structural configuration of the first and second upper drain openings 30A, 30B and the trough 21 is considered advantageous at least because the first and second upper drain openings 30A, 30B may provide drainage of the accumulated precipitation from the trough 21, through the rear drainage portion 22B, and away from the main body 10 and the trailer 1. In one exemplary embodiment, a portion of a trough may be sloped from a medial point of the trough towards a rear drainage portion to suitable drain liquid precipitation away from the main body that is both concealed and isolated from the interior chamber 17 of the main body 10. Moreover, the first and second upper drain openings 30A, 30B omit additional drainage members (e.g., conduits or pipe members) for draining liquid precipitation to prevent freezing or clogging with frozen precipitation or unwanted debris commonly attributed to drainage members. Similarly, the structural configuration of the third and fourth upper drain openings 30C, 30D and the trough 21 mirror the same advantageous as the first and second upper drain openings 30A, 30B and the trough 21 but on the opposing side of the trailer 1.

The drainage system 20 may include at least one lower drain opening 32 defined in rear drainage portion 22B extending entirely through the rear drainage portion 22B. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the drainage system 20 may include a first lower drain opening 32A and an adjacent second lower opening 32B that extend entirely through the rear drainage portion 22B in which the inner surface 24A and the outer surface 24B are in fluid communication with one another through each of the first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B. As illustrated in FIG. 3A, the first and second upper drain openings 32A, 32B are defined proximate to the bottom end 10F of the main body 10. The first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B may also be in fluid communication with the trough 21 and the first and second upper drain openings 30A, 30B. Similarly, third and fourth lower drain openings 32C, 32D of the front drainage portion 22A may also be in fluid communication with the third and fourth upper openings 30C, 30D and trough 21.

The structural configuration of the first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B defined by the rear drainage portion 22B is considered advantageous at least because the first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B may provide drainage of the accumulated precipitation from the trough 21 and away from the main body 10 and the trailer 1. As illustrated in FIGS. 3A, 4B-5A, and 7, the first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B may be aligned with the first and second upper drain openings 30A, 30B to allow for consistent flow of accumulated precipitation along a vertical axis through each associated upper and lower drain opening. Additionally, the curvature of the rear drainage portion 22B allows the inner surface 24A to act as a funnel to convey any excess fluid to drain towards one or both of the first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B. Moreover, the first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B omit additional drainage members (e.g., conduits or pipe members) for draining liquid precipitation to prevent freezing or clogging with frozen precipitation or unwanted debris commonly attributed to drainage members. Similarly, the structural configuration of the third and fourth lower drain openings 32C, 32D of the front drainage portion 22A mirror the same advantageous as the first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B but on the opposing side of the trailer 1.

The rear drainage portion 22B may define at least one upper through-hole 34 and at least one lower through-hole 36 therein. As illustrated in FIGS. 4B-4C, the rear drainage portion 22B defines an upper through-hole 34 and an opposing lower through-hole 36. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper through-hole 34 and the lower through-hole 36 may be aligned with one another that the upper through-hole 34 and the lower through-hole 36 are coaxial with one another. Similarly, the front drainage portion 22A may also define an upper through-hole 34 (see FIG. 3B) and a lower through-hole (not illustrated) substantially similar to the upper and lower through-holes 34, 36 of the rear drainage portion 22B. Such use of the upper and lower through-holes 34, 36 of each of the front drainage portion 22A and the rear drainage portion 22B is described in more detail below.

The trailer 1 may also include at least one insulated conduit 40 that is operably engaged with one or both of the front and rear drainage portions 22A, 22B of the drainage system 20. As illustrated in FIGS. 3A-7, a front conduit 40A may be operably engaged with the front drainage portion 22A via the associated upper and lower through-holes 34. Similarly, a rear conduit 40B may be operably engaged with rear drainage portion 22B via the associated upper and lower through-holes 34, 36. The front and rear conduits 40A, 40B are substantially similar to one another and are positioned with the front and rear drainage portions 22A, 22B in a mirrored-image orientation. Inasmuch as the front and rear conduits 40A, 40B are substantially similar, the following description will relate to the rear conduit 40B. It should be understood, however, that the description of the rear conduit 40B applies equally to the front conduit 40A.

As illustrated in FIGS. 4B-4C, the rear conduit 40B defines an open top end 41A, an opposing open bottom end 41B, and a passageway 41C defined therebetween. As illustrated in FIG. 4B, the top end 41A of the rear conduit 40B may be operably engaged with the rear drainage portion 22B inside of the upper through-hole 34 and proximate to the top end 10E of the main body 10. The bottom end 41B of the rear conduit 40B may be operably engaged with the rear drainage portion 22B inside of the lower through-hole 36 and proximate to the bottom end 10F of the main body 10. The rear conduit 40B may also be sized and configured to receive and house electrical wiring, mechanical lines, and other components for providing power or energy to electrical and mechanical devices on the trailer 1. As illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 5-5A, a group of electrical wiring “W” may be housed inside of the rear conduit 40B. The group of electrical wiring “W” may include at least one electrical wire. As illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 5A, the group of electrical wiring “W” may include a first wire “W1” that electrically connects the set of brake lights 19 mounted in the trough 21 to the vehicle 2 for operating the set of brake lights 19 when towing the trailer 1. The group of electrical wiring “W” may include a second wire “W2” that electrically connects other devices on the trailer 1 to the vehicle 2 or to other programmable devices on the trailer 1 (e.g., pumps, electrical switches, actuators, etc.).

As illustrated in FIGS. 3A and 6-7, the rear conduit 40B may be in fluid communication with the trough 21 due to the upper through-hole 34 of the rear drainage portion 22B being defined inside of the channel 21E of the trough 21. In the illustrated embodiment, the top end 41A is sealed once the electrical wiring and other components are housed inside of the rear conduit 40B. In one exemplary embodiment, a rear conduit may convey accumulated precipitation from the top end 41A, via the trough 21, and exits through the bottom end 41B. Moreover, the bottom end 41B is sealed once the electrical wiring and other components are housed inside of the rear conduit 40B. The front conduit 40A may be sealed substantially similar to the rear conduit 40B.

As illustrated in FIGS. 4C and 5, the rear conduit 40B may define a bend 42 between the top end 41A and the bottom end 41B of the rear conduit 40B. The bend 42 may be defined based on the curvilinear shape of the rear bulkhead 16 such that the rear conduit 40B is positioned away from the rear bulkhead 16 and not contacting the rear bulkhead 16. The front conduit 40A may also define a substantially similar bend based on the curvilinear shape of the front bulkhead 14.

Similar to the rear conduit 40B, the front conduit 40A may be configured to provide substantially similar options as provided by the rear conduit 40B. As illustrated in FIG. 3B, the front conduit 40A may also house a group of electrical wiring “W3” for providing electrical power or energy to other device and components operably engaged with the trailer 1 to load and unload cargo.

The structural arrangement between the front and rear conduits 40A, 40B and the front and rear drainage portions 22A, 22B is considered advantageous at least because the front and rear conduits 40A, 40B may house electrical wires and mechanical lines exterior to the interior chamber 17 of the main body 10 to prevent against interactions with the cargo housed inside said interior chamber 17. Such isolation of electrical wires in one or both of the front and rear conduits 40A, 40B may prevent electrical shortages due to the electrical wiring being completely removed from the chamber 17. Such isolation of mechanical lines (i.e., pneumatic lines, hydraulic lines, etc.) in one of both of the front and rear conduits 40A, 40B may prevent clogging or destruction of mechanical system due to the mechanical lines being completely removed from the interior chamber 17.

The drainage system 20 may also include at least one removable false bulkhead 50 operably engaged with one of the front drainage portion 22A and the rear drainage portion 22B. The at least one removable false bulkhead 50 is independent from one of the front bulkhead 14 and the rear bulkhead 16 of the main body 10. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3B, the drainage system 20 may include a front false bulkhead 50A that is operably engaged with the front drainage portion 22A. Referring to FIGS. 1, 3A, and 4A-5A, the drainage system 20 may also include a first or rear false bulkhead 50B that is operably engaged with the rear drainage portion 22B. The front (or second) and rear (or first) false bulkheads 50A, 50B are substantially similar to one another and are positioned with the front and rear drainage portions 22A, 22B in a mirrored-image orientation. Inasmuch as the false bulkheads 50A, 50B are substantially similar, the following description will relate to the rear false bulkhead 50B. It should be understood, however, that the description of the rear false bulkhead 50B applies equally to the front false bulkhead 50A.

As illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4B and 5-5A, the rear false bulkhead 50B may include a base plate 52. The base plate 52 may have an inner surface 54 facing in a direction towards the rear bulkhead 16 of the main body 10. The base plate 52 may also have an opposing outer surface 56 facing in an opposite direction away from the rear bulkhead 16 of the main body 10. The base plate 52 may also define a plurality of apertures 57 that extends entirely through the base plate 52 where the inner surface 54 and the outer surface 56 are in fluid communication with one another through each aperture of the plurality of apertures 57. The plurality of apertures 57 is also sized and configured to receive a plurality of brake lights 58 (see FIG. 5) in which the plurality of brakes lights 58 would operably engaged with the base plate 52 via said plurality of apertures 57. Since the plurality of apertures 57 are used for operably engaging the plurality of brake lights to the rear false bulkhead 50B, the plurality of apertures 57 may be omitted from the front false bulkhead 50B.

Still referring to FIGS. 4B and 5-5A, the rear false bulkhead 50B may also include a circumferential lip 60 that is formed in the base plate 52 via a bend 61. The circumferential lip 60 may extend laterally away from the bend 61 towards the base plate 52 and towards the rear bulkhead 16 of the main body 10. As illustrated in FIGS. 5-5A, the circumferential lip 60 may define a second set of attachment openings 62 where each attachment opening of the second set of attachment openings 62 extends entirely through the circumferential lip 60. Such use of the second set of attachment openings 62 is described in more detail below. Upon assembly of the rear false bulkhead 50B with the rear drainage portion 22B, a portion of the circumferential lip 60 operably engages with the interior surface 24A of the rear drainage portion 22B inside of the rear drainage portion 22B. Upon assembly, an exterior chamber 63B is defined between the rear bulkhead 16 of the main body 10 and the rear false bulkhead 50B surrounded by the rear drainage portion 22B. The exterior chamber 63B is isolated from the interior chamber 17 defined by the main body 10. Similarly, another exterior chamber 63A is defined between the front bulkhead 14 of the main body 10 and the front false bulkhead 50A surrounded by the front drainage portion 22A. This exterior chamber 63A is also isolated from the interior chamber 17 defined by the main body 10. Such use of the exterior chambers 63A, 63B is described in more detail below.

Referring to FIGS. 5-5A, a plurality of attachment members 80 may be used to operably engage the rear false bulkhead 50B with the rear drainage portion 22B via the first and second sets of attachment openings 26, 62. Each attachment member of the plurality of attachment members 80 may include a threaded connector 82 configured to threadably engage with an associated nut 84. As illustrated in FIG. 5A, a threaded connector 82 of an attachment member of the plurality of attachment members 80 may be feed through aligned attachment openings of the first and second sets of attachment openings 26, 62. The threaded connector 82 may maintain the position of the rear false bulkhead 50B with the rear drainage portion 22B via the nut 84 threadably engaging with the threaded connector 82. In other exemplary embodiment, any suitable number of attachment members may be used to operably engage a false rear bulkhead with a rear expansion member. Similarly, the plurality of attachment member 80 may be used to operably engage the front false bulkhead 50A with the front drainage portion 22A.

As illustrated in FIG. 5A, a bead of epoxy 86 may be applied circumferential about the rear drainage portion 22B and the rear false bulkhead 50B for providing additional attachment support between the main body 10 and the rear false bulkhead 50B. In the illustrated embodiment, the bead of epoxy 86 may be applied along the rear end 23B of the rear drainage portion 22B and along the circumferential lip 60 of the rear false bulkhead 50B. The epoxy 86 may be any suitable substance or cargo that is able to adhere and/or attach the rear false bulkhead 50B to the rear drainage portion 22B of the circumferential wall 12 while preventing any fluid or precipitation from permeating through once applied. Similarly, a bead of epoxy may be applied circumferential about the front drainage portion 22A and the front false bulkhead 50A for providing additional attachment support between the main body 10 and the front false bulkhead 50A.

The structural configuration of the false bulkheads 50A, 50B with the drainage portions 22A, 22B is considered advantageous at least because the drainage of accumulated precipitation along an outer surface of the trailer 1 (at either the front or rear ends 1A, 1B) may be masked and/or concealed via the false bulkheads 50A, 50B. In other words, the accumulated precipitation may drain behind one or both of the false bulkheads 50A, 50B inside of one or both of the exterior chambers 63A, 63B. Such drainage concealment of the accumulated precipitation may prevent the displaying of unwanted stains or grime on the front end 1A or the rear end 1B of the trailer 1. By concealing the drainage, bystanders or drivers near the trailer 1 may not confuse the drainage stains or grime as the trailer 1 leaking cargo loaded in the trailer 1 (e.g., gasoline, hazardous chemicals, etc.)

The structural configuration of the drainage system 20 when using false bulkheads 50A, 50B with the drainage portions 22A, 22B is considered advantageous at least because such omission of piping and/or plumbing prevents the potential of freezing lines with frozen precipitation or clogging with debris. In one instance, the upper drain openings 30 defined in the drainage portions 22A, 22B simply convey accumulated precipitation into the exterior chambers 63A, 63B and towards the lower drain openings 32 defined in the drainage portions 22A, 22B to drain said accumulated precipitation. With the elimination of the piping and/or plumbing components, the accumulated precipitation may easily travel through these upper and lower drain openings 30, 32 due to size, shape, and configuration of the openings 30, 32 and the exterior chambers 63. Furthermore, removal of debris or frozen precipitation may be easily removed from the exterior chambers 63A, 63B by simply removing the attachment members 80 from one of the false bulkheads 50A, 50B and the one of the drainage portions 22A, 22B.

In the illustrated embodiment, the main body 10 and its associated parts and/or components are made from a first material, and the at least one removable false bulkhead 50 (one or both of the front removable false bulkhead 50A and the rear removable false bulkhead 50B) is made of a second material; the second material is different than the first material. In one example, the main body 10 may be made from aluminum, and the at least one removable false bulkhead 50 may be made from stainless steel. In another example, the main body 10 may be made from aluminum, and the at least one removable false bulkhead 50 may be made from a fabric and/or fibrous material.

Having now described the components and assemblies of the trailer 1 along with the associated drainage system 20, the method of use and/or operation of the trailer 1 with the associated drainage system 20 is described below.

Upon a towing operation, the trailer 1 may be mechanically connected to the vehicle 2 in any suitable configuration. In the current embodiment, the trailer 1 and the vehicle 2 are mechanically connected via a fifth-wheel trailer connection. Once connected, the vehicle 2 may begin towing the trailer 1 and use it for various purposes.

Upon towing, the trailer 1 and vehicle 2 may incur different forms of precipitation during normal operation (e.g., rainwater, snow, sleet, ice, etc.). During this precipitation period, precipitation may contact the top end 10E of the main body 10 where precipitation may be accumulated inside the of the channel 21E of the trough 21. As shown in FIG. 6, precipitation, such as rainwater, may fall from the surrounding atmosphere and interact with the trailer 1. The rainfall of the rainwater is denoted by arrows labeled “RF” in FIG. 6, and accumulated rainwater in the trough 21 is labeled “RW” in FIG. 6. As the rainwater “RW” or other liquid forms of precipitation begin to accumulate in the trough 21, the trough 21 is adapted to convey the rainwater “RW” towards the upper drain openings 30A, 30B, 30C, 30D defined by the front drainage portion 22A and the rear drainage portion 22B. As stated above, the process of draining accumulated precipitation from the trailer 1 will be focused on the rear portion the drainage system 20. It should be understood that this process of draining accumulated precipitation is substantially similar to the front portion of the drainage system 20.

As illustrated in FIG. 7, the rainwater “RW” is conveyed from the chamber 18E of the trough 21 and into the first and second upper drain openings 30A, 30B of the rear drainage portion 22B. As the rainwater “RW” enters the first and second upper drain openings 30A, 30B, the rainwater “RW” moves downwardly from the first and second upper drain openings 30A, 30B towards the first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B. During this transition, the rainwater “RW” may move laterally to either side of the first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B due to external forces placed on the rainwater “RW” (e.g., centrifugal force placed on the trailer 1 when turning with vehicle 2) or the flow rate of the rainwater “RW.” In these specific cases, the rainwater “RW” may contact the interior surface 24A of the rear drainage portion 22B and/or the rear false bulkhead 50B and be directed towards the first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B. The structural configuration of the both the rear drainage portion 22B and the rear false bulkhead 50B allows for rainwater “RW” or other types of precipitation to be funneled through the trailer 1 exterior to the interior chamber 17 of the main body 10 even through the rainwater “RW” or other types of precipitation were not directly drained through one or both of the first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B from one or both of the first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B. As the rainwater “RW” or other type of precipitation moves through the first and second lower drain openings 32A, 32B, the rainwater “RW” is drained into the exterior environment of the trailer 1 and away from said trailer 1.

During this drainage process, the rainwater “RW” may not enter into or pass through the upper through-hole 34 or the lower through-hole 36 of the rear drainage portion 22B due to the rear conduit 40B being sealed from exterior elements. In other words, the passageway 41C of the rear conduit 40B may be isolated from exterior elements to protect electrical wiring or mechanical plumbing for the trailer 1. As such, the precipitation accumulated in the trough 21 may pass over the upper through-hole 34 due to the conduit 40B being sealed. It should be understood that the drainage process explained above may be substantially similar to the upper and lower through-holes 34 of the front drainage portion 22A in that the front conduit 40A may be sealed to prevent against drainage of accumulated precipitation through said front conduit 40A.

The drainage system 20 of the trailer 1 is considered advantageous at least because the drainage of accumulated precipitation along an outer surface of the trailer 1 (at either the front or rear end 1A, 1B) may be masked and/or concealed via the false bulkheads 50A, 50B. In other words, the accumulated precipitation may drain behind one or both of the false bulkheads 50A, 50B inside of one or both of the exterior chambers 63A, 63B. Such drainage concealment of the accumulated precipitation may prevent the displaying of unwanted stains or grime on the front end 1A or the rear end 1B of the trailer 1. By concealing the drainage, bystanders or drivers proximate to the trailer 1 may not confuse the drainage stains or grime as the trailer 1 leaking cargo loaded in the trailer 1 (e.g., gasoline, hazardous chemicals, etc.)

The drainage system 20 of the trailer 1 is also considered advantageous at least because the drainage system 20 may prevent against clogging or freezing pipes when draining accumulated precipitation from a top end of a trailer. The drainage system 20 omits the use of drainage pipes and uses the upper and lower openings 30, 32 of the drainage system 20 to adequately drain different types of accumulated precipitation. In one instance, the drainage system 20 may allow for accumulated snow, sleet, or similar types of accumulated precipitation to adequately drain through the drainage portions 20A, 20B. Moreover, the removable false bulkheads 50A, 50B provides ease of accessing the exterior chambers 63A, 63B if precipitation freezes inside of these exterior chambers 63A, 63B or if debris is contained inside of these exterior chambers 63A, 63B.

FIGS. 8-10 illustrate another trailer 100 similar to the trailer 1 described above and illustrated in FIGS. 1-7, except as detailed below. The trailer 100 includes a drainage system 120 that is different than the drainage system 20 illustrated in FIGS. 8-10.

Referring to FIGS. 8-10, the trailer 100 includes a main body 110 that may have a front end (not illustrated), an opposing rear end 110B, and a longitudinal axis defined therebetween. The main body 110 also has a first side or left side 110C, an opposing second side or right side 110D, and a transverse axis defined therebetween. The main body 110 also has a top end 110E, an opposing bottom end 110F, and a vertical axis defined therebetween. The main body 110 also includes a circumferential wall 112 that extends from the front end to the rear end 110B along the longitudinal axis. The circumferential wall 112 may also operably engage with a frame (not illustrated) for maintaining the main body 10 with the frame.

Referring to FIG. 3B, the main body 110 may include a front bulkhead (not illustrated) operably engaged with the circumferential wall 112 at the front end of the main body 110 proximate to a vehicle (not illustrated). The main body 110 may also include an opposing rear bulkhead 116 operably engaged with the circumferential wall 112 at the rear end 110B of the main body 110. Additionally, the circumferential wall 112, the front bulkhead, and the rear bulkhead 116 may collectively define at least one interior chamber 117 that extends from the front bulkhead to the rear bulkhead 116 similar to the interior chamber 17 of the main body 10 described above.

Referring to FIGS. 8-10, the trailer 100 includes a drainage system 120 (i.e., a drainage system) that is operably engaged with the main body 110. The drainage system 120 may include a trough 121. The trough 121 may be operably engaged with the main body 110 along the top end 110E of the main body 110 and extends between the front and rear ends of the main body 110. The trough 121 may also extend beyond the front bulkhead and the rear bulkhead 116 of the main body 110, which is described in more detail below.

The trough 121 may have a front end 121A, an opposing rear end 121B, a first side wall or left wall 121C, and an opposing second side wall or right wall 121D. The trough 121 may define a channel 121E collectively by the first end 121A, the rear end 121B, the left wall 121C, and the right wall 121D. The trough 121 extends along the entire length of the trough 121 parallel to the longitudinal axis of the trailer 100. The channel 121E defined by the trough 121 may be configured to gather and capture liquid or fluid that enters into the channel 121E. As illustrated in FIG. 10, rainwater “RW” or other forms of precipitation may be gathered and captured in the channel 121E.

Referring to FIG. 5, the trough 121 may define a plurality of through-holes 121F at the rear end 110B of the main body 110. The plurality of through-holes 121F defined by the trough 121 may be configured to receive and house a set of brake lights 119 where the set of brake lights 119 is operably engaged with the trough 121. In the illustrated embodiment, the set of brake lights 119 operably engaged with the trough 121 is used as the third brake light for the trailer 100.

Additionally, the trough 121 may define at least one slot 121G extending entirely through the trough 121 at the rear end 110B of the main body 110. The at least one slot 121G may be configured to convey rainwater “RW” or other forms of precipitation in liquid form from the top end 110E of the main body 110 towards an on-board drainage system, which is described in more detail below. In the illustrated embodiment, the trough 121 defines a first slot 121G1 and an adjacent second slot 121G2 positioned relative to a transverse axis of the trough 121.

In the illustrated embodiment, the main body 110 may be made of a first material, and the circumferential wall 112, the front bulkhead, the rear bulkhead 116, and the trough 121 may be made of a second, different material. As such, the main body 110 may be made from a metal material, specifically aluminum. Each of the circumferential wall 112, the front bulkhead, the rear bulkhead 116, and the trough 121 may 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.

As illustrated in FIGS. 8-10, the drainage system may include a drainage portion or gutter 122 that is positioned exterior to the at least one interior chamber 117 of the main body 110 in which fluid or liquid is conveyed or drained outside of the interior chamber 117. The gutter 122 may be configured for draining fluid or liquid (such as rainwater) from the trough 121 to the rear end of the main body 110 at a distance away from the trailer 100. The gutter 122 is considered advantageous at least because the gutter 122 may prevent against unwanted stains or blemishes caused by precipitation dripping down the exposed rear bulkhead 116.

As illustrated in FIGS. 8-10, the gutter 122 may include a base plate 123. The base plate 123 may include a front end 123A that is operably engaged with the main body 110 proximate to the rear end 110B and an opposing rear end 123B remote from the base plate 123. As shown in FIG. 9, the rear end 123B of the base plate 123 is defined at a distance “D” away from the rear bulkhead 116. Such distance “D” between the rear end 123B of the base plate 123 and the rear bulkhead 116 allows for adequate distance in which accumulated precipitation may be drained away from the trailer 100 without creating unwanted stains or blemishes caused by precipitation dripping down the exposed rear bulkhead 116.

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 10, the base plate 123 may also define a curvilinear shape that extends from a left or first side 123C of the base plate to an opposing right or second side 123C of the base plate 123. The curvilinear shape of the base plate 123 provides ease of draining accumulated precipitation from trough 121 and away from the trailer 100, which is described in more detail below. The base plate 123 may also have a top surface 124 that extends between the left and right sides 122C, 122D and an opposing bottom surface that extends between the left and right sides 122C, 122D.

Referring to FIGS. 8-10, the gutter 122 may include at least one rail 128. The at least one rail 128 may be operably engaged with the top surface 124 of the base plate 123. The at least one rail 128 may also be aligned with the at least one slot 121G of the trough 121 in that the at least one rail 128 is configured to direct the flow of the accumulated precipitation from the trough 121 and away from the rear bulkhead 116 of the main body 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the gutter 122 includes a first rail 128A and a second rail 128B. Each of the first and second rails 128A, 128B may be operably engaged with the top surface 124 of the gutter 122 where the first and second rails 128A, 128B extend away from the top surface 124. In one exemplary embodiment, first and second rails of a gutter may be defined in the gutter 122 where the first and second rails extend into a top surface of the gutter towards a bottom surface of the gutter.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first rail 128A is aligned with the first slot 121G1 of the trough 121 to direct the flow of the accumulated precipitation from the trough 121 and away from the rear bulkhead 116 of the main body 110. Similarly, the second rail 128B is aligned with the second slot 121G2 of the trough 121 to direct the flow of the accumulated precipitation from the trough 121 and away from the rear bulkhead 116 of the main body 110. The first and second rails 128A, 128B are also offset from one another in that the first rail 128A directs a volume of accumulated precipitation towards the right side 123D of the base plate 123, and the second rail 128B directs another volume of accumulated precipitation towards the left side 123C of the base plate 123. Moreover, the first and second rails 128A, 128B may define a central passage 129 that increases in diameter from the front end 123A of the base plate 123 to the rear end 123B of the base plate 123.

Having now described the components of the trailer 100, specifically the trough 121 and the gutter 122, the method of use can now be discussed.

Upon towing, the trailer 100 and vehicle may incur different forms of precipitation during normal operation (e.g., rainwater, snow, sleet, ice, etc.). During this precipitation period, precipitation may contact the top end 110E of the main body 110 where precipitation may be accumulated inside the of the channel 121E of the trough 121. As shown in FIG. 10, precipitation, such as rainwater “RW”, may fall from the surrounding atmosphere and interact with the trailer 100. As the rainwater “RW”, or other liquid forms of precipitation, begin to accumulate in the trough 121, the trough 121 is adapted to convey the rainwater “RW” towards the first and second slots 121G1, 121G2 defined in the trough 121. As stated above, the process of draining accumulated precipitation from the trailer 100 will be focused on the rear portion the drainage system 120. It should be understood that this process of draining accumulated precipitation is substantially similar to a front gutter if equipped to a trailer such as trailer 100.

As illustrated in FIG. 10, the rainwater “RW” is conveyed from the chamber 118A of the trough 121 and into the first and second slots 121G1, 121G2. As the rainwater “RW” enters the first and second slots 121G1, 121G2, the rainwater “RW” moves laterally from the first and second slots 121G1, 121G2 towards gutter 122, specifically the first and second rails 128A, 128B. During this transition, the rainwater “RW” may move laterally away from or against the first and second rails 128A, 128B due to external forces placed on the rainwater “RW” (e.g., centrifugal force placed on the trailer 100 when turning with vehicle) or the flow rate of the rainwater “RW.” In these specific cases, the rainwater “RW” may contact both the first and second rails 128A, 128B and be directed towards the rear end 123B of the base plate 123. Additionally, the curvilinear shape of the base plate 123 provides additional guidance to the rainwater “RW” by forcing the rainwater “RW” to move towards the first and second rails 128A, 128B. The structural configuration of the gutter 122 allows for rainwater “RW” or other types of precipitation to be funneled away from the trailer 100 at a desired distance to prevent unwanted stains or blemishes caused by precipitation dripping down the exposed rear bulkhead 116.

FIGS. 11A-14 illustrate another trailer or towed vehicle generally indicated by the reference number 200. Trailer 200 is similar to trailer 1 discussed above and illustrated in FIGS. 1-7, except as detailed below.

In the present disclosure, trailer 200 includes a front end (not illustrated), a rear end 200B, a left side 200C, a right side 200D, a top end 200E, and a bottom end 200F that are substantially similar to the front end 1A, rear end 1B, left side 1C, right side 1D, top end 1E, and bottom end 1F of trailer 1.

In the present disclosure, trailer 200 also includes a main body 210 that has a circumferential wall 212, a front bulkhead (not illustrated), a rear bulkhead 216, and at least one interior chamber 217 that are substantially similar to main body 10 of trailer 1 that has circumferential wall 12, front bulkhead 14, rear bulkhead 16, and at least one interior chamber 17. Trailer 200 also includes a trough 220 that is substantially similar to trough 21 of trailer 1. Trailer 200 also includes exterior brake lights 221A, 221B that are substantially similar to brake lights 19.

Trailer 200 also includes an extension wall 222 that has a front end 222A, a rear end 222B, an inner surface 222C, and an exterior surface 222D that are substantially similar to front end 23A, rear end 23B, inner surface 24A, and exterior surface 24B of extension wall 22 of trailer 1. In this instance, however, extension wall 222 also defines a rear opening 222E that extends between the front end 222A and the second end 222B. It should be noted that interior chamber 217 and rear opening 222E are free from fluidic communication with one another due to the rear bulkhead 216. Extension wall 222 of trailer 200 also defines a first upper drain opening 224A, a second upper drain openings 224B, a first lower drain opening 226A, and a second lower drain opening 226B that are substantially similar to first upper drain opening 30A, second upper drain openings 30B, first lower drain opening 32A, and second lower drain opening 32B of extension wall 22B.

In this embodiment, however, trailer 200 may also include at least one divider 230 that operably engages with at least one of the rear bulkhead 216 and extension wall 222. As best seen in FIGS. 11B-12, divider 230 includes a first or front end 230A that operably engages with the rear bulkhead 216 external to the interior chamber 217, and a second or rear end 230B that is opposite to the front end 230A and is spaced apart from a false bulkhead, which is discussed in greater detail below. Divider 230 also includes a first side wall 230C that extends transversely between the front end 230A and the rear end 230B, and a second side wall 230D that extends transversely between the front end 230A and the rear end 230B and is opposite to the first side wall 230C. In the present disclosure, the first side wall 230C and the second side wall 230D face in opposing directions. Divider 230 also includes a top end 230E that is positioned vertically above the front end 230A, the rear end 230B, the first side wall 230C, and the second side wall 230D and that operably engages with the extension wall 222, particularly the inner surface 222C of extension wall 222. Divider 230 also includes a bottom end 230F that is positioned vertically below the front end 230A, the rear end 230B, the first side wall 230C, and the second side wall 230D and that operably engages with the extension wall 222, particularly the inner surface 222C of extension wall 222. Such use and purpose of divider 230 is discussed in greater detail below.

In operation, divider 230 provides various uses for trailer 200. In one instance, vertical walls of the divider 230 (i.e., first side wall 230C and second side wall 230D) may act as funnels and/or guides to convey any excess fluid from one or both of the first and second upper drain openings 224A, 224B to one or both of the first and second lower drain openings 226A, 226B. In another instance, the vertical walls of the divider 230 (i.e., first side wall 230C and second side wall 230D) may act as mounting surfaces or points for one or more sets of auxiliary signaling devices of a rear lighting assembly of the trailer 200; such sets of auxiliary signaling devices of a rear lighting assembly are discussed in greater detail below.

Trailer 200 also includes a mounting wall 232 that operably engages with the extension wall 222. As best seen in FIGS. 11B-12, mounting wall 232 extends radially inwards from the inner surface 222C of the extension wall 222. In the present disclosure, mounting wall 232 includes an outer edge 232A that extends circumferentially about the mounting wall 232 and operably engages with the inner surface 222C of the extension wall 222. Mounting wall 232 also includes an inner edge 232B that extends circumferentially about the mounting wall 232 and is opposite to the outer edge 232A. In the present disclosure, the inner edge 232B is also free from engaging with the extension wall 222. Mounting wall 232 also includes a first or interior surface 232C that extends between the outer edge 232A and the inner edge 232B and faces in a direction towards the rear bulkhead 216. Mounting wall 232 also includes a second or exterior surface 232D that extends between the outer edge 232A and the inner edge 232B and faces in a direction towards the rear end 222B of extension wall 222. In the present disclosure, exterior surface 232D is configured to operably engage with a false bulkhead of trailer 200 that is spaced apart from and positioned rearwardly of the rear bulkhead 216, which is discussed in greater detail below.

Trailer 200 may also include at least one removable false bulkhead 240 that operably engages with at least one of the extension wall 222, the divider 230, and the mounting wall 232. The at least one removable false bulkhead 240 is independent from one or both of the front bulkhead and the rear bulkhead 216 of the main body 210. As best seen in FIGS. 11A-11B, trailer 200 includes a single false bulkhead 240 that operably engages with the extension wall 222 and the mounting wall 232. In the present disclosure, false bulkhead 240 is remote and spaced apart from the rear bulkhead 216 in trailer 200. Stated differently, the false bulkhead 240 is free from engagement with the rear bulkhead 216.

As best seen in FIG. 11B, false bulkhead 240 may include an inner surface 240A facing in a direction towards the rear bulkhead 216 of the main body 210. In the present disclosure, the inner surface 240A is continuous and uninterrupted along the entire surface area of inner surface 240A. False bulkhead 240 may also include an outer surface 240B that faces in a direction away from the rear bulkhead 216 of the main body 210 and opposite to the inner surface 240A. In the present disclosure, the outer surface 240B is also continuous and uninterrupted along the entire surface area of outer surface 240B. In the present disclosure, the inner surface 240A also operably engages with the mounting wall 232, particularly with the exterior surface 232D of mounting wall 232, when trailer 200 is assembled. False bulkhead 240 may also include a surrounding edge 240C that extends circumferential about the false bulkhead 240 and is positioned between the inner surface 240A and the outer surface 240B. In the present disclosure, the surrounding edge 240C also operably engages with the extension wall 222, particularly with the inner surface 222C of extension wall 222, when trailer 200 is assembled.

Upon assembly of trailer 200, false bulkhead 240 is flush or even with the extension wall 222 such that the false bulkhead 240 is observed as the rearmost end of trailer 200 when viewed from a side elevation view (see FIG. 11A) or a rear view (see FIGS. 13A-13E). More particularly, the outer surface 240B of the false bulkhead 240 is flush or even with the rear end 222B of the extension wall 222 when viewed from a side elevation view or a rear view.

False bulkhead 240 may be adapted to display or provide graphics 242 on the outer surface 240B of the false bulkhead 240 that faces rearwardly away from the trailer 200. As illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13E, graphics 242 may display any suitable print, engraving, etching, photograph, design, or any other suitable visual art or typographical marking of the like. Such use of the graphics 242 on false bulkhead 240 is considered advantageous at least because the graphics 242 may provide advertising and marketing methods for a company using said false bulkhead assembly 240 on the trailer 200. As such, the graphics 242 may 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 trailer 200.

It should be understood that false bulkhead 240 is also made of a second material that is different than a first material of the main body 210 (including circumferential wall 212 and rear bulkhead 216). In the present disclosure, false bulkhead 240 is made of a material that allows light, particularly visible light wavelengths, to pass through the false bulkhead 240 when emitted by a rear lighting assembly of trailer 200, which is discussed in greater detail below. In the present disclosure, main body 210, circumferential wall 212, and the rear bulkhead 216 is made of a material that reflects light. During operation, rear bulkhead 216 may be configured to reflect light, emitted by a rear lighting assembly of trailer 200, towards the false bulkhead 240.

In one example, false bulkhead 240 may be made of a translucent material, partially or entirely, to diffuse light emitted by a rear lighting assembly of trailer 200 through false bulkhead 240 that obstructs a view of one or more signaling devices of a rear lighting assembly of trailer 200 (see FIGS. 13A-13E). In this example, the translucent material may be a polymer or plastic material to diffuse light emitted by a rear lighting assembly of trailer 200 through false bulkhead 240 that obstructs a view of one or more signaling devices of the rear lighting assembly of trailer 200. Upon such light emission, graphics 242 may also be illuminated by the light from the rear lighting assembly of trailer 200 when the light emitted by the rear lighting assembly is brighter than natural light surrounding trailer 200.

In another example, an alternative false bulkhead 240′ may be made of a transparent or clear material, partially or entirely, to transmit light emitted by a rear lighting assembly of trailer 200 through false bulkhead 240′ without obstructing a view of one or more signaling devices of the rear lighting assembly of trailer 200 (see FIG. 14). In this example, the translucent material may be a polymer or plastic material to transmit light emitted by a rear lighting assembly of trailer 200 through false bulkhead 240′ without obstructing a view of one or more signaling devices of the rear lighting assembly of trailer 200. Upon such light emission, graphics 242 may also be illuminated by the light from the rear lighting assembly of trailer 200 when the light emitted by the rear lighting assembly is brighter than natural light surrounding trailer 200.

It should be appreciated that extension wall 222 and false bulkheads 240, 240′ may also have a structural configuration of any suitable false bulkhead discussed and illustrated herein. In one example, extension wall 222 and false bulkheads 240, 240′ may include the structural configuration of extension wall 22 and false bulkhead 50 to operably engage the false bulkhead 240, 240′ with the extension wall 222.

It should also be understood that extension wall 222 may also be made from the first material discussed herein or the second material discussed herein. In the present disclosure, extension wall 222 is made of the first material (as discussed above) that reflect light outwardly towards the false bulkhead 240 when emitted by a rear lighting assembly of trailer 200, which is discussed in greater detail below. In one example, however, extension wall 222 may be made of a translucent material, partially or entirely, to diffuse light emitted by a rear lighting assembly of trailer 200 through false bulkhead 240 that obstructs a view of one or more signaling devices of the rear lighting assembly of trailer 200. In another example, extension wall 222 may be made of a transparent material, partially or entirely, to transmit light emitted by a rear lighting assembly of trailer 200 through false bulkhead 240 without obstructing a view of one or more signaling devices of the rear lighting assembly of trailer 200.

Trailer 200 may also include an exterior chamber 244 collectively defined by the rear bulkhead 216, the extension wall 222, and the false bulkhead 240 when assembled with extension wall 222. In the present disclosure, the exterior chamber 244 is defined from the rear bulkhead 216, along the inner surface 222C of extension wall 22, to the inner surface 240A of the false bulkhead 240. The exterior chamber 244 is also separated from the interior chamber 217 of main body 210 by the rear bulkhead 216; as such, the interior chamber 217 of main body 120 and the exterior chamber 244 are free from being in fluid communication with one another.

Still referring to exterior chamber 244, divider 230 is configured to separate the exterior chamber 244 into a first compartment 244A and a second compartment 244B. As best seen in FIGS. 11B-12, first compartment 244A is collectively defined by the rear bulkhead 216, a first portion of the inner surface 222C of the extension wall 222, the first side wall 230C of the divider 230, and a first portion of the inner surface 240A of false bulkhead 240. Still referring to FIGS. 11B-12, second compartment 244B is collectively defined by the rear bulkhead 216, a second portion of the inner surface 222C of the extension wall 222, the second side wall 230D of the divider 230, and a second portion of the inner surface 240A of false bulkhead 240. As discussed in greater detail below, the divider 230 is configured to separate signaling devices and sets of auxiliary signaling devices of a rear lighting assembly of trailer 200 for signaling driving states and/or directions of travel of trailer 200.

Trailer 200 also includes a rear lighting assembly 250. As discussed in greater detail below, rear lighting assembly 250 is configured to indicate to surrounding drivers and pedestrians the driving states or directions of travel of the trailer 200 along the entire rear end 200B of trailer 200. With such indication, surrounding drivers and pedestrians may clearly see and anticipate the driving states or directions of travel of the trailer 200 when traveling along a roadway. Such components and devices of rear lighting assembly 250 are discussed in greater detail below.

Rear lighting assembly 250 includes at least one turn signaling device 252 that operably engages with one of the rear bulkhead 216 and the false bulkhead 240 and is housed inside of the exterior chamber 244. As best seen in FIGS. 11B-12, rear lighting assembly 250 includes a first turn signaling device 252 that operably engages with the rear bulkhead 216 and is housed inside of the exterior chamber 244. Still referring to FIGS. 11B-12, rear lighting assembly 250 also includes a second turn signaling device 254 that operably engages with the rear bulkhead 216 and is housed inside of the exterior chamber 244. When trailer 200 is towed by vehicle 2, each of the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 is configured to emit at least one light signal at the false bulkhead 240 in response to one or more actions made by driver of the vehicle 2; such emission of at least one light signal by one or both of the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 is discussed in greater detail below.

In the present disclosure, the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 are also separated and spaced apart from the one another by the divider 230. As best seen in FIG. 12, the first turn signaling device 252 is housed inside of the first compartment 244A and the second turn signaling device 254 is housed inside of the second compartment 244B. When trailer 200 is towed by vehicle 2, each of the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 is configured to emit at least one light signal inside the first compartment 244A and the second compartment 244B in response to one or more actions made by driver of the vehicle 2 to signal that the trailer 200 and vehicle are turning or traveling in a lateral direction relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200 (see FIGS. 13A-13D); such emission of at least one light signal by one or both of the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 is discussed in greater detail below.

It should be understood that while the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 are encased inside of the exterior chamber 244 from the external elements that surrounds trailer 200, first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 may be configured to operate with such external elements. In one instance, first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 may be configured to operate with such external elements (i.e., dirt, precipitation, and road debris) when the trough 220, the first and second upper drain openings 224A, 224B, and the first and second lower drain openings 226A, 226B are included with trailer 200. As such, the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 are sealed and protected from being hindered by dirt, precipitation and/or other debris that enters into the exterior chamber at the first and second upper drain openings 224A, 224B or the first and second lower drain openings 226A, 226B.

Rear lighting assembly 250 also includes a set of first auxiliary or peripheral signaling devices 256. In the present disclosure, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 operably engages with at least one of the extension wall 222 and the divider 230 and is housed inside of the exterior chamber 244, particularly the first compartment 244A. As best seen in FIGS. 11B-12, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 includes a first auxiliary signaling device 256A that operably engages with the inner surface 222C of the extension wall 222 and the first side wall 230C of the divider 230 inside of the first compartment 244A. The set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 may also include a second auxiliary signaling device 256B and a third auxiliary signaling device 256C that only operably engage with the inner surface 222C of the extension wall 222 inside of the first compartment 244A. During operation, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 may emit one or more light signals in conjunction with the one or more light signals emitted by the first turn signaling device 252.

While the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 includes three auxiliary signaling devices 256A, 256B, 256C, any suitable number of auxiliary signaling devices may be included in a rear lighting assembly as dictated by the implementation, including the depth of an extension wall discussed herein, the size, shape, and configuration of a false bulkhead discussed herein, and other various considerations. Examples of suitable numbers of auxiliary signaling devices to be included in a rear lighting assembly include zero, one, at least one, two, three, four, five, and other suitable numbers of auxiliary signaling devices that may be included in a rear lighting assembly as dictated by the implementation.

It should be understood that while the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 is encased inside of the exterior chamber 244 from the external elements that surrounds trailer 200, set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 may be configured to operate with such external elements. In one instance, set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 may be configured to operate with such external elements (i.e., dirt, precipitation, and road debris) when the trough 220, the first and second upper drain openings 224A, 224B, and the first and second lower drain openings 226A, 226B are included with trailer 200. As such, each auxiliary signaling device of the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 is sealed and protected from being hindered by dirt, precipitation and/or other debris that enters into the exterior chamber at the first and second upper drain openings 224A, 224B or the first and second lower drain openings 226A, 226B.

Rear lighting assembly 250 also includes a set of second auxiliary or peripheral signaling devices 258. In the present disclosure, the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 operably engages with at least one extension wall 222 and the divider 230 and is housed inside of the exterior chamber 244, particularly the second compartment 244B. As best seen in FIGS. 11B-12, the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 includes a first auxiliary signaling device 258A that operably engages with the inner surface 222C of the extension wall 222 and the second side wall 230D of the divider 230 inside of the second compartment 244B. The set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 may also include a second auxiliary signaling device 258B and a third auxiliary signaling device 258C that only operably engage with the inner surface 222C of the extension wall 222 inside of the second compartment 244B. During operation, the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 may emit one or more light signals in conjunction with the one or more light signals emitted by the second signaling device 254.

While the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 includes three auxiliary signaling devices 258A, 258B, 258C, any suitable number of auxiliary signaling devices may be included in a rear lighting assembly as dictated by the implementation, including the depth of an extension wall discussed herein, the size, shape, and configuration of a false bulkhead discussed herein, and other various considerations. Examples of suitable numbers of auxiliary signaling devices to be included in a rear lighting assembly include zero, one, at least one, two, three, four, five, and other suitable numbers of auxiliary signaling devices that may be included in a rear lighting assembly as dictated by the implementation.

It should be understood that while the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 is encased inside of the exterior chamber 244 from the external elements that surrounds trailer 200, set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 may be configured to operate with such external elements. In one instance, set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 may be configured to operate with such external elements (i.e., dirt, precipitation, and road debris) when the trough 220, the first and second upper drain openings 224A, 224B, and the first and second lower drain openings 226A, 226B are included with trailer 200. As such, each auxiliary signaling device of the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 is sealed and protected from being hindered by dirt, precipitation and/or other debris that enters into the exterior chamber at the first and second upper drain openings 224A, 224B or the first and second lower drain openings 226A, 226B.

Rear lighting assembly 250 may also include at least one reverse signaling device 260 that operably engages with one of the rear bulkhead 216 and the false bulkhead 240 and is housed inside of the exterior chamber 244. As best seen in FIGS. 11B-12, rear lighting assembly 250 includes a first reverse signaling device 260 that operably engages with the rear bulkhead 216 and housed inside of the exterior chamber 244. Still referring to FIGS. 11B-12, rear lighting assembly 250 also includes a second reverse signaling device 262 that operably engages with the rear bulkhead 216 and is housed inside of the exterior chamber 244. When trailer 200 is towed by vehicle 2, each of the first reverse signaling device 260 and the second reverse signaling device 262 is configured to emit at least one light signal at the false bulkhead 240 in response to one or more actions made by driver of the vehicle 2 to signal that the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 are traveling in reverse relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200; such emission of at least one light signal by one or both of the first reverse signaling device 260 and the second reverse signaling device 262 is discussed in greater detail below.

In the present disclosure, the first reverse signaling device 260 and the second turn signaling device 262 are also separated and spaced apart from the one another by the divider 230. As best seen in FIG. 12, the first reverse signaling device 260 is housed inside of the first compartment 244A and the second reverse signaling device 262 is housed inside of the second compartment 244B. When trailer 200 is towed by vehicle 2, each of the first reverse signaling device 260 and the second reverse signaling device 262 is configured to emit at least one light signal inside the first compartment 244A and the second compartment 244B in response to one or more actions made by driver of the vehicle 2 (see FIG. 13E); such emission of at least one light signal by one or both of the first reverse signaling device 260 and the second reverse signaling device 262 is discussed in greater detail below.

It should be understood that while the first reverse signaling device 260 and the second turn signaling device 262 are encased inside of the exterior chamber 244 from the external elements that surrounds trailer 200, the first reverse signaling device 260 and the second turn signaling device 262 may be configured to operate with such external elements. In one instance, the first reverse signaling device 260 and the second turn signaling device 262 may be configured to operate with such external elements (i.e., dirt, precipitation, and road debris) when the trough 220, the first and second upper drain openings 224A, 224B, and the first and second lower drain openings 226A, 226B are included with trailer 200. As such, the first reverse signaling device 260 and the second turn signaling device 262 are sealed and protected from being hindered by dirt, precipitation and/or other debris that enters into the exterior chamber at the first and second upper drain openings 224A, 224B or the first and second lower drain openings 226A, 226B.

It should be appreciated that while the first reverse signaling device 260 and the second reverse signaling device 262 are configured to signal the trailer 200 and the vehicle 2 are traveling in reverse relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200, other signaling devices of rear lighting assembly 250 may be used to signal such reverse traveling. In one instance, the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 may be configured to signal that the trailer 200 and the vehicle 2 are traveling in reverse relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200 in conjunction with the first reverse signaling device 260 and the second reverse signaling device 262. In this instance, the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 may emit a different hue indicator or color of light (i.e., emitting a white light to signal a reverse direction) to signal and/or indicate that the trailer 200 and the vehicle 2 are traveling in reverse relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. In another instance, the first reverse signaling device 260 and the second reverse signaling device 262 may be omitted and the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 may be configured to signal that the trailer 200 and the vehicle 2 are traveling in reverse relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. In this instance, the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 may emit a different hue indicator or color of light (i.e., emitting white light to signal a reverse direction) to signal and/or indicate that the trailer 200 and the vehicle 2 are traveling in reverse relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200.

It should be appreciated that each of the first turn signaling device 252, the second turn signaling device 254, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256, the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258, the first reverse signaling device 260, and the second reverse signaling device 262 may be any suitable device that is configured to emit light for signaling the driving states or the directions of travel for trailer 200. In one exemplary embodiment, each of the first turn signaling device 252, the second turn signaling device 254, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256, the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258, the first reverse signaling device 260, and the second reverse signaling device 262 may be light emitting diodes (LEDs) that are configured to emit light for signaling the driving states or the directions of travel for trailer 200.

Rear lighting assembly 250 may also include a controller 264. As best seen in FIG. 12, controller 264 is electrically connected with each of the first turn signaling device 252, the second turn signaling device 254, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256, the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258, the first reverse signaling device 260, and the second reverse signaling device 262 by a main electrical connection 266. In the present disclosure, the main electrical connection 266 is split into a first electrical connection 266A that electrically connects the first turn signaling device 252 with the controller 264, a second electrical connection 266B that electrically connects the second turn signaling device 254 with the controller 264, a third electrical connection 266C that electrically connects the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 with the controller 264, a fourth electrical connection 266D that electrically connects the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 with the controller 264, a fifth electrical connection 266E that electrically connects the first reverse signaling device 260 with the controller 264, and a sixth electrical connection 266F that electrically connects the second reverse signaling device 262 with the controller 264. Such electrical connections enables the controller 264 to operate and command one or more of the first turn signaling device 252, the second turn signaling device 254, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256, the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258, the first reverse signaling device 260, and the second reverse signaling device 262 to emit signal lights when initiated by driver of vehicle 2.

In the present disclosure, controller 264 is configured to output one or more signals, via the set of electrical connections 266, to one or more of the first turn signaling device 252, the second turn signaling device 254, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256, the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258, the first reverse signaling device 260, and the second reverse signaling device 262 in response to receiving one or more actions by the driver of vehicle 2. In one example, controller 264 may be provided with trailer 200 and electrically connects with a computer or processing unit of the vehicle 2 to enabling signaling and/or indication of the driving states or directions of travel of the trailer 200 based on one or more actions made by the driver of vehicle 2. In this instance, a second wiring harness 270 (see FIG. 12) may be used to electrically connect the controller 264 with the computer or processing unit of the vehicle 2 to enable electrical communication. In another example, controller 264 may be a computer or processing unit of the vehicle 2 that enables signaling and/or indication of the driving state or direction of travel of the trailer 200 based on one or more actions made by the driver of vehicle 2. In this instance, a wiring harness or electrical connection may be used to electrically connect each of the first turn signaling device 252, the second turn signaling device 254, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256, the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258, the first reverse signaling device 260, and the second reverse signaling device 262 with the controller 264 to enable electrical communication.

Rear lighting assembly 250 may also include a power source 268 that operably engages with the controller 264 by an electrical connection 269. In the present disclosure, the power source 268 is located with trailer 200 to provide electrical power to the first turn signaling device 252, the second turn signaling device 254, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256, the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258, the first reverse signaling device 260, and the second reverse signaling device 262, and the controller 264. In this instance, power source 268 may be a battery or similar device that is capable of storing and outputting electrical energy. In one alternative embodiment, power source 268 may also be at least one battery or electrical storage device that is provide with or preexists on vehicle 2 that provides electrical power to the first turn signaling device 252, the second turn signaling device 254, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256, the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258, the first reverse signaling device 260, the second reverse signaling device 262, and the controller 264.

Having now described the components and devices of trailer 200 that includes rear lighting assembly 250, methods of using the rear lighting assembly 250 when towing trailer 200 with vehicle 2 are described in greater detail below.

Prior to using rear lighting assembly 250, the driver of vehicle 2 mechanically engages the trailer 200 with the vehicle 2 for towing capabilities. Once engaged, the driver of vehicle 2 may then electrically connect the trailer 200 with the vehicle 2 via one or more wiring harnesses 270 provided with trailer 200 to electrically connect the rear lighting assembly 250 with the vehicle 2. Particularly, the driver of vehicle 2 may connect the wiring harness 270 of trailer 200 with a computer or processing unit of vehicle 2. Once connected, the rear lighting assembly 250 and the vehicle 2 may then communicate with one another to enable the rear lighting assembly 250 to indicate the driving states or directions of travel of the trailer 200 and the vehicle 2. During operation, the rear lighting assembly 250 indicates various lights to drivers and pedestrians of the driving states or directions of travel of the trailer 200 along the entire rear end 200B of trailer 200. Various lights emitted by the rear lighting assembly 250 through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate the driving states or directions of travel of the trailer 200 are discussed below.

In a first instance, rear lighting assembly 250 may emit a first indicator light 280A through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate running lights for trailer 200. As best seen in FIG. 13A, controller 264 may command each of the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 to emit the first indicator light 280A through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate running lights for trailer 200. In this instance, the first indicator light 280A is emitted at a first brightness for indicating running lights for trailer 200. Controller 264 may only command each of the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 to emit the first indicator light 280A through the false bulkhead 240 when headlights of vehicle 2 are activated by the driver for various reasons, including lack of visibility due to darkness or precipitation experienced by the trailer 200 and vehicle 2. Additionally, the graphics 242 provided on the outer surface 240B of false bulkhead 240 may also be illuminated when each of the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 emit the first indicator light 280A through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate running lights for trailer 200; such illumination of the false bulkhead 240 is denoted by shading labeled 241A in FIG. 13A.

In the first instance, it should be appreciated that controller 264 may also command the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 and the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 to emit the first indicator light 280A in conjunction with the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254 to indicate running lights for trailer 200. As such, the controller 264 may command each of the first turn signaling device 252, the second turn signaling device 254, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256, and the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 to emit the first indicator light 280A through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate running lights for trailer 200. Such light emission by the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 and the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 enables greater illumination through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate running lights of trailer 200.

In a second instance, rear lighting assembly 250 may emit a second indicator light 280B through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate a first turning direction or first lateral direction of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. As best seen in FIG. 13B, controller 264 may command the first turn signaling device 252 to emit the second indicator light 280B inside of the first compartment 244A and through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate the first turning direction or first lateral direction of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200; such illumination of a first portion of the false bulkhead 240 is denoted by shading labeled 241B in FIG. 13B. In this instance, the second indicator light 280B is emitted at a second brightness that is greater than the first brightness at the first indicator light 280A. Controller 264 may only command the first turn signaling device 252 to emit the second indicator light 280B through the false bulkhead 240 when driver desires to signal that the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 are traveling in the first turning direction or first lateral direction relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. While not illustrated herein, controller 264 may only command the first turn signaling device 252, while leaving the second turn signaling device 254 in an OFF state, to emit the second indicator light 280B through the false bulkhead 240 when driver desires to signal that the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 are traveling in the first turning direction or first lateral direction relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200.

In the second instance, it should be appreciated that controller 264 may also command the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 to emit the second indicator light 280B to indicate the first turning direction of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. As such, the controller 264 may command each of the first turn signaling device 252 and the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 to emit the second indicator light 280B inside of the first compartment 244A and through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate the first turning direction or first lateral direction of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. Such light emission by the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256, in conjunction with the first turn signaling device 252, enables greater illumination through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate the first turning direction to pedestrians and drivers that are positioned behind of the rear end 200B of trailer 200.

In the second instance, it should also be appreciated that controller 264 may also command the first turn signaling device 252 and the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 to emit a series of second indicator lights 280B to indicate the first turning direction of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. Stated differently, controller 264 may command the first turn signaling device 252 and the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 to periodically emit or flash the second indicator light 280B to indicate the turning direction to pedestrians and drivers that are positioned behind the rear end 200B of trailer 200.

In the second instance, one or more of the brake lights of the exterior lights 221B below the false bulkhead 240 may emit and flash lights to indicate the first turning direction of the trailer 200 and the vehicle 2. In one instance, two or more brake lights of the exterior lights 221B proximate to the first turn signaling device 252 and the set of first auxiliary signaling lights 256 may be commanded to emit and flash lights to indicate the first turning direction of the trailer 200 and the vehicle 2 in concert with the first turn signaling device 252 and the set of first auxiliary signaling lights 256.

In a third instance, similar to the second instance, rear lighting assembly 250 may emit a third indicator light (represented by lines labeled 280B in FIG. 13C) through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate a second turning direction or second lateral direction of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200; the second turning direction is opposite to the first turning direction shown in FIG. 13B. As best seen in FIG. 13C, controller 264 may command the second turn signaling device 254 to emit the third indicator light inside of the second compartment 244B and through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate the second turning direction or second lateral direction of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200; such illumination of a second portion of the false bulkhead 240 is denoted by shading labeled 241B in FIG. 13C. In this instance, the third indicator light 280B is emitted at a third brightness that is greater than the first brightness of the first indicator light 280A and equal to the second brightness of the second indicator light 280B. Controller 264 may only command the second turn signaling device 254 to emit the third indicator light 280B through the false bulkhead 240 when the driver desires to signal that the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 are traveling in the second turning direction or second lateral direction relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. While not illustrated herein, controller 264 may only command the second turn signaling device 254, while leaving the first turn signaling device 252 in an OFF state, to emit the third indicator light 280B through the false bulkhead 240 when driver desires to signal that the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 are traveling in the second turning direction or second lateral direction relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200.

In the third instance, it should be appreciated that controller 264 may also command the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 to emit the third indicator light 280B to indicate the second turning direction of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. As such, the controller 264 may command each of the second turn signaling device 254 and the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 to emit the third indicator light 280B inside of the second compartment 244B and through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate the second turning direction or second lateral direction of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. Such light emission by the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258, in conjunction with the second turn signaling device 254, enables greater illumination through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate the turning direction to pedestrians and drivers that are positioned behind of the rear end 200B of trailer 200.

In the third instance, it should also be appreciated that controller 264 may also command the second turn signaling device 254 and the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 to emit a series of third indicator lights 280B to indicate the second turning direction of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. Stated differently, controller 264 may command the second turn signaling device 254 and the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 to periodically emit or flash the third indicator light 280B to indicate the turning direction to pedestrians and drivers that are positioned behind the rear end 200B of trailer 200.

In the third instance, one or more of the brake lights of the exterior lights 221B below the false bulkhead 240 may emit and flash lights to indicate the second turning direction of the trailer 200 and the vehicle 2. In one instance, two or more brake lights of the exterior lights 221B proximate to the second turn signaling device 254 and the set of second auxiliary signaling lights 258 may be commanded to emit and flash lights to indicate the second turning direction of the trailer 200 and the vehicle 2 in concert with the second turn signaling device 254 and the set of second auxiliary signaling lights 258.

In a fourth instance, rear lighting assembly 250 may emit a fourth indicator light 280B through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate braking and/or deceleration of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 in a first longitudinal direction relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. As best seen in FIG. 13D, controller 264 may command each of the first turn signaling device 252 and second turn signaling device 254 to emit the fourth indicator light 280B simultaneously through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate the braking and/or deceleration of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200; such illumination of first and second portions of the false bulkhead 240 is denoted by shading labeled 241B in FIG. 13D. In this instance, the fourth indicator light 280B is emitted at a fourth brightness that is greater than the first brightness of the first indicator light 280A and equal to the second brightness of the second indicator light 280B and the third brightness of the third indicator light 280B. Controller 264 may only command the first turn signaling device 252 and second turn signaling device 254 to emit the fourth indicator light 280B through the false bulkhead 240 when the driver initiates a braking action when driving the vehicle 2 to signal that the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 are braking and/or decelerating in the first longitudinal direction relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200.

In the fourth instance, it should be appreciated that controller 264 may also command the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 and the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 to emit the fourth indicator light 280B, in conjunction with the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254, to indicate braking and/or deceleration of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 in the first longitudinal direction relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. As such, the controller 264 may command each of the first turn signaling device 252, the second turn signaling device 254, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256, and the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 to emit the fourth indicator light 280B through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate braking and/or deceleration of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 in the first longitudinal direction relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200. Such light emission by the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 and the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 enables greater illumination through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate the braking of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 to pedestrians and drivers that are positioned behind the rear end 200B of trailer 200.

In the fourth instance, one or more of the brake lights of the exterior lights 221A, 221B above and below the false bulkhead 240 may emit lights to indicate the braking or deceleration of the trailer 200 and the vehicle 2. In one instance, all exterior lights 221A, 221B emit lights to indicate the braking or deceleration of the trailer 200 and the vehicle 2 in concert with the first turn signaling device 252, the second turn signaling device 254, the set of first auxiliary signaling lights 256, and the set of second auxiliary signaling lights 258.

In a fifth instance, rear lighting assembly 250 may emit a fifth indicator light 280C through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate a reversing of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 in a second longitudinal direction relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200; the second longitudinal direction is opposite to the first longitudinal direction. As best seen in FIG. 13E, controller 264 may command each of the first reverse signaling device 260 and second reverse signaling device 262 to emit the fifth indicator light 280C simultaneously through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate the second longitudinal direction of the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 relative to the longitudinal direction of trailer 200; such illumination of first and second portions of the false bulkhead 240 is denoted by shading labeled 241C in FIG. 13E. In this instance, the fifth indicator light 280C is emitted at a fifth brightness that is greater than the first brightness of the first indicator light 280A and equal to the second brightness of the second indicator light 280B, the third brightness of the third indicator light 280B, and the fourth brightness of the fourth indicator light 280B. Controller 264 may command the first reverse signaling device 260 and second reverse signaling device 262 to emit the fifth indicator light 280C through the false bulkhead 240 when the driver provides the vehicle 2 in a reverse gear so that the trailer 200 and vehicle 2 travel in reverse and/or in the second longitudinal direction.

While not illustrated herein, rear lighting assembly 250 may emit a sixth indicator light through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate traffic hazards experienced by trailer 200 and vehicle 2. In this instance, controller 264 may command each of the first turn signaling device 252 and second turn signaling device 254 the sixth indicator light simultaneously through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate traffic hazards experienced by trailer 200 and vehicle 2. In this instance, the sixth indicator light would be emitted at a sixth brightness that is greater than the first brightness of the first indicator light 280A and equal to the second brightness of the second indicator light 280B, the third brightness of the third indicator light 280B, and the fourth brightness of the fourth indicator light 280B. It should be understood that the sixth indicator light emitted by the first turn signaling device 252 and second turn signaling device 254 are substantially similar to the second indicator light 280B and the third indicator light 280B. Controller 264 may only command the first turn signaling device 252 and second turn signaling device 254 to emit the sixth indicator light 280 through the false bulkhead 240 when the driver actuates a traffic hazards feature inside of vehicle 2.

In the sixth instance, it should be appreciated that controller 264 may also command the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 and the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 to emit the sixth indicator light, in conjunction with the first turn signaling device 252 and the second turn signaling device 254, to indicate traffic hazards experienced by trailer 200 and vehicle 2. As such, the controller 264 may command each of the first turn signaling device 252, the second turn signaling device 254, the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256, and the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 to emit the sixth indicator light through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate traffic hazards experienced by trailer 200 and vehicle 2. Such light emission by the set of first auxiliary signaling devices 256 and the set of second auxiliary signaling devices 258 enables greater illumination through the false bulkhead 240 to indicate the traffic hazards experienced by trailer 200 and vehicle 2.

FIG. 15 is a method 300. An initial step 302 of method 300 includes sending a travel response to a rear lighting assembly of a tank vehicle. Another step 304 of method 300 includes emitting a set of indicating lights, by a signaling device of the rear lighting assembly, through a false bulkhead of the tank vehicle. Another step 306 of method 300 includes signaling a plurality of driving states of the tank vehicle when in travel. Another step 308 of method 300 includes concealing drainage of precipitation exterior to at least one interior chamber defined between a rear bulkhead of the tank vehicle and the false bulkhead.

Optional and/or additional steps may be further included in method 300. An optional step of method 300 may further include that the step of emitting the set of indicating lights through the false bulkhead further includes that the set of indicating lights is transmitted through the false bulkhead free from obstructing a view of the signaling device. An optional step of method 300 may further include that the step of emitting the set of indicating lights through the false bulkhead further includes that the set of indicating lights is diffused through the false bulkhead to obstruct a view of the signaling device. An optional step of method 300 may further include that the step of concealing drainage of precipitation exterior to the at least one interior chamber further comprises: draining the precipitation through at least one upper drain opening defined in an extension wall of the tank vehicle and into an exterior chamber defined between the rear bulkhead and the false bulkhead external to the at least one interior chamber; and draining the precipitation through at least one lower drain opening defined in the extension wall of the tank vehicle from the exterior chamber. An optional step of method 300 may further include a step of reflecting at least one indicating light of the set of indicating lights, by the rear bulkhead of the tank vehicle, towards the false bulkhead.

Various inventive concepts may be embodied as one or more methods, of which an example has been provided. The acts performed as part of the method may be ordered in any suitable way. Accordingly, embodiments may be constructed in which acts are performed in an order different than illustrated, which may include performing some acts simultaneously, even though shown as sequential acts in illustrative embodiments.

While various inventive embodiments have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and/or structures for performing the function and/or obtaining the results and/or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and/or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the inventive embodiments described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and/or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the inventive teachings is/are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize, or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific inventive embodiments described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing embodiments are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, inventive embodiments may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Inventive embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and/or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and/or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the inventive scope of the present disclosure.

The above-described embodiments can be implemented in any of numerous ways. For example, embodiments of technology disclosed herein may be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination thereof. When implemented in software, the software code or instructions can be executed on any suitable processor or collection of processors, whether provided in a single computer or distributed among multiple computers. Furthermore, the instructions or software code can be stored in at least one non-transitory computer readable storage medium.

The articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.” The phrase “and/or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims (if at all), should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and/or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and/or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a reference to “A and/or B”, when used in conjunction with open-ended language such as “comprising” can refer, in one embodiment, to A only (optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including other elements); etc. As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and/or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and/or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of” or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.” “Consisting essentially of,” when used in the claims, shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent law.

As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition also allows that elements may optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, “at least one of A and B” (or, equivalently, “at least one of A or B,” or, equivalently “at least one of A and/or B”) can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B (and optionally including other elements); etc.