CA2895528C - Light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer - Google Patents
Light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2895528C CA2895528C CA2895528A CA2895528A CA2895528C CA 2895528 C CA2895528 C CA 2895528C CA 2895528 A CA2895528 A CA 2895528A CA 2895528 A CA2895528 A CA 2895528A CA 2895528 C CA2895528 C CA 2895528C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- housing
- front panel
- cover
- flange
- top flange
- Prior art date
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Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R19/00—Wheel guards; Radiator guards, e.g. grilles; Obstruction removers; Fittings damping bouncing force in collisions
- B60R19/02—Bumpers, i.e. impact receiving or absorbing members for protecting vehicles or fending off blows from other vehicles or objects
- B60R19/48—Bumpers, i.e. impact receiving or absorbing members for protecting vehicles or fending off blows from other vehicles or objects combined with, or convertible into, other devices or objects, e.g. bumpers combined with road brushes, bumpers convertible into beds
- B60R19/50—Bumpers, i.e. impact receiving or absorbing members for protecting vehicles or fending off blows from other vehicles or objects combined with, or convertible into, other devices or objects, e.g. bumpers combined with road brushes, bumpers convertible into beds with lights or registration plates
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
- B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
- B60Q1/30—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating rear of vehicle, e.g. by means of reflecting surfaces
- B60Q1/301—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating rear of vehicle, e.g. by means of reflecting surfaces by means of surfaces, e.g. metal plate, reflecting the light of an external light source
- B60Q1/3015—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating rear of vehicle, e.g. by means of reflecting surfaces by means of surfaces, e.g. metal plate, reflecting the light of an external light source combined with a lamp
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
- B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
- B60Q1/30—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating rear of vehicle, e.g. by means of reflecting surfaces
- B60Q1/305—Indicating devices for towed vehicles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R19/00—Wheel guards; Radiator guards, e.g. grilles; Obstruction removers; Fittings damping bouncing force in collisions
- B60R19/02—Bumpers, i.e. impact receiving or absorbing members for protecting vehicles or fending off blows from other vehicles or objects
- B60R19/42—Bumpers, i.e. impact receiving or absorbing members for protecting vehicles or fending off blows from other vehicles or objects extending primarily along the sides of, or completely encircling, a vehicle
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R19/00—Wheel guards; Radiator guards, e.g. grilles; Obstruction removers; Fittings damping bouncing force in collisions
- B60R19/02—Bumpers, i.e. impact receiving or absorbing members for protecting vehicles or fending off blows from other vehicles or objects
- B60R19/48—Bumpers, i.e. impact receiving or absorbing members for protecting vehicles or fending off blows from other vehicles or objects combined with, or convertible into, other devices or objects, e.g. bumpers combined with road brushes, bumpers convertible into beds
- B60R19/50—Bumpers, i.e. impact receiving or absorbing members for protecting vehicles or fending off blows from other vehicles or objects combined with, or convertible into, other devices or objects, e.g. bumpers combined with road brushes, bumpers convertible into beds with lights or registration plates
- B60R2019/505—Bumpers, i.e. impact receiving or absorbing members for protecting vehicles or fending off blows from other vehicles or objects combined with, or convertible into, other devices or objects, e.g. bumpers combined with road brushes, bumpers convertible into beds with lights or registration plates with lights
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Lighting Device Outwards From Vehicle And Optical Signal (AREA)
Abstract
A light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer frame includes an elongate housing having a hollow interior accessible through an open rear side, and a cover which is pivotal relative to the housing to span the rear opening in the closed position. Vehicular signalling lights are mounted in the rear cover to be pivotal with the cover. Each of the housing and the cover has a respective hinge component which is extruded integrally therewith such that the hinge components interlock to define the relative pivotal movement between the cover and the housing. Ends caps are fastened to opposing ends of the housing to be readily removable therefrom and function to restrict the cover in a lateral direction between the opposing ends while allowing the relative pivotal movement.
Description
LIGHT BAR BUMPER ASSEMBLY FOR A VEHICULAR TRAILER
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a bumper assembly for a trailer frame in which the bumper assembly supports an array of vehicular signalling lights therein, and more particularly, the present invention relates to a bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer supporting vehicular lights therein in which a portion of the bumper assembly is movable between a closed position and an open position providing access to wiring for the lights within a hollow interior of the bumper assembly.
BACKGROUND
Cargo transport trailers of the type commonly transported by connection to a highway tractor truck are required to be provided with vehicular signalling lights similar to road vehicles for i) illuminating the boundary of the vehicle to improve visibility to others, ii) signalling braking to other vehicles, and iii) signalling turning of trailer in either direction to other vehicles. Such signalling lights are typically incorporated into tubular bar spanning laterally across a rear end of the trailer frame to also function as a rear bumper of the trailer frame. Wiring from the vehicle controls to individual light assemblies mounted along the tubular bar must typically be threaded through the tubular bar to the different light assemblies. The tubular bar provides limited access for replacement of wiring or light assemblies. Furthermore, the wiring typically rests along a bottom of the hollow interior of the tubular bar such that any moisture collected in the tubular bar can contribute to premature corrosion of the wiring. Furthermore, in the event of any damage from a collision for example, typically the entire light bar assembly must be replaced.
European Patent application 2 431 236 by Lago and United States Patent Nos. 4,901,895 by Gancarz, 5,364,142 by Coiner, 5,016,932 by Carter, Date recue / Date received 2021-12-16
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a bumper assembly for a trailer frame in which the bumper assembly supports an array of vehicular signalling lights therein, and more particularly, the present invention relates to a bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer supporting vehicular lights therein in which a portion of the bumper assembly is movable between a closed position and an open position providing access to wiring for the lights within a hollow interior of the bumper assembly.
BACKGROUND
Cargo transport trailers of the type commonly transported by connection to a highway tractor truck are required to be provided with vehicular signalling lights similar to road vehicles for i) illuminating the boundary of the vehicle to improve visibility to others, ii) signalling braking to other vehicles, and iii) signalling turning of trailer in either direction to other vehicles. Such signalling lights are typically incorporated into tubular bar spanning laterally across a rear end of the trailer frame to also function as a rear bumper of the trailer frame. Wiring from the vehicle controls to individual light assemblies mounted along the tubular bar must typically be threaded through the tubular bar to the different light assemblies. The tubular bar provides limited access for replacement of wiring or light assemblies. Furthermore, the wiring typically rests along a bottom of the hollow interior of the tubular bar such that any moisture collected in the tubular bar can contribute to premature corrosion of the wiring. Furthermore, in the event of any damage from a collision for example, typically the entire light bar assembly must be replaced.
European Patent application 2 431 236 by Lago and United States Patent Nos. 4,901,895 by Gancarz, 5,364,142 by Coiner, 5,016,932 by Carter, Date recue / Date received 2021-12-16
2 5,979,953 by Rinehart, and 7,347,597 by French disclose various examples of bumper assemblies for vehicles, but none provide a suitable degree of access to light assemblies in a rear panel of a light bar bumper assembly to allow for independent replacement of the light assemblies, the rear panel, and/or wiring to the light assemblies.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to one aspect of the invention there is provided a light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer frame comprising:
a housing arranged for mounting in fixed relation to a rear end of the trailer frame including:
a front panel spanning laterally between two opposed ends of the housing in an upright orientation;
a top flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the top flange along a length of the front panel between the ends of the housing; and a bottom flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the bottom flange along the length of the front panel between the ends of the housing at a location spaced below the top flange to define a rear opening in the housing between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange;
a cover comprising a rear panel supported on the housing so as to be movable between a closed position in which the rear panel spans the rear opening along the length of the housing between the ends thereof and an open position in which the rear panel extends away from the rear opening such that the rear opening is substantially unobstructed by the rear panel; and
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to one aspect of the invention there is provided a light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer frame comprising:
a housing arranged for mounting in fixed relation to a rear end of the trailer frame including:
a front panel spanning laterally between two opposed ends of the housing in an upright orientation;
a top flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the top flange along a length of the front panel between the ends of the housing; and a bottom flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the bottom flange along the length of the front panel between the ends of the housing at a location spaced below the top flange to define a rear opening in the housing between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange;
a cover comprising a rear panel supported on the housing so as to be movable between a closed position in which the rear panel spans the rear opening along the length of the housing between the ends thereof and an open position in which the rear panel extends away from the rear opening such that the rear opening is substantially unobstructed by the rear panel; and
3 a plurality of vehicular signalling lights mounted in the rear panel for movement together with the cover between the open and closed positions.
By supporting the lights in a movable panel, both the wiring in the hollow interior of the bumper assembly and the wiring connections to the internal side of the lights can be readily accessed for ease of replacement of individual components as required. The modular construction of the housing and cover also allows only part of the bumper assembly to be replaced independent of the remainder of the assembly in the event that damage occurs to only one portion of the light bar assembly.
The cover is coupled to the housing for relative pivotal movement between the open position and the closed position. Preferably the cover is pivotal relative to the housing between the open and closed positions about a pivot axis located at the rear edge of the bottom flange.
The assembly may further comprise: i) a first hinge component integrally formed on the cover such that the first hinge component and the cover comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material, and ii) a second hinge component on the housing such that the second hinge component and the housing comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material. Preferably the first and second hinge components are shaped to mate with one another for relative pivotal movement to define a pivot axis of the cover relative to the housing between the open and closed positions thereof.
When the housing further includes a pair of end caps supported at opposing ends of the housing in fixed relation to the housing, preferably the first hinge component of the cover is restrained in the lateral direction by the end caps.
Each end cap preferably spans a full height between the top flange and the bottom flange and spanning a full depth between the front panel and the rear
By supporting the lights in a movable panel, both the wiring in the hollow interior of the bumper assembly and the wiring connections to the internal side of the lights can be readily accessed for ease of replacement of individual components as required. The modular construction of the housing and cover also allows only part of the bumper assembly to be replaced independent of the remainder of the assembly in the event that damage occurs to only one portion of the light bar assembly.
The cover is coupled to the housing for relative pivotal movement between the open position and the closed position. Preferably the cover is pivotal relative to the housing between the open and closed positions about a pivot axis located at the rear edge of the bottom flange.
The assembly may further comprise: i) a first hinge component integrally formed on the cover such that the first hinge component and the cover comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material, and ii) a second hinge component on the housing such that the second hinge component and the housing comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material. Preferably the first and second hinge components are shaped to mate with one another for relative pivotal movement to define a pivot axis of the cover relative to the housing between the open and closed positions thereof.
When the housing further includes a pair of end caps supported at opposing ends of the housing in fixed relation to the housing, preferably the first hinge component of the cover is restrained in the lateral direction by the end caps.
Each end cap preferably spans a full height between the top flange and the bottom flange and spanning a full depth between the front panel and the rear
4 panel in the closed position.
The end caps may be fixed to the housing using threaded or compression fasteners such that the end caps are readily releasable from the housing.
The assembly may further include a mounting channel supported on the front panel within a hollow interior of the housing to extend laterally between the two opposed ends of the housing. The mounting channel and the front panel may be a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material.
According to one embodiment, the cover may further include a fastener flange protruding forwardly from the rear panel adjacent to the top flange in the closed position in which the fastener flange of the cover and the top flange of the housing are arranged to receive common fasteners therethrough to selectively retain the cover in the closed position. Preferably the fastener flange is received below the top flange in the closed position of the cover in this instance. The top flange of the housing may include a recessed channel formed therein which is arranged to receive said common fasteners therein.
In further embodiments, the fastener flange may depend from a rear end of the top flange of the housing such that fasteners may be fastened to the fastener flange of the housing through the rear flange of the cover to secure the cover in the closed position.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer frame comprising:
a front panel spanning laterally between two opposed ends of the front panel and being arranged for mounting in an upright orientation in fixed relation to a rear end of the trailer frame;
a top flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the top flange along a length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel; and a bottom flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a
The end caps may be fixed to the housing using threaded or compression fasteners such that the end caps are readily releasable from the housing.
The assembly may further include a mounting channel supported on the front panel within a hollow interior of the housing to extend laterally between the two opposed ends of the housing. The mounting channel and the front panel may be a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material.
According to one embodiment, the cover may further include a fastener flange protruding forwardly from the rear panel adjacent to the top flange in the closed position in which the fastener flange of the cover and the top flange of the housing are arranged to receive common fasteners therethrough to selectively retain the cover in the closed position. Preferably the fastener flange is received below the top flange in the closed position of the cover in this instance. The top flange of the housing may include a recessed channel formed therein which is arranged to receive said common fasteners therein.
In further embodiments, the fastener flange may depend from a rear end of the top flange of the housing such that fasteners may be fastened to the fastener flange of the housing through the rear flange of the cover to secure the cover in the closed position.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided a light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer frame comprising:
a front panel spanning laterally between two opposed ends of the front panel and being arranged for mounting in an upright orientation in fixed relation to a rear end of the trailer frame;
a top flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the top flange along a length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel; and a bottom flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a
5 rear edge of the bottom flange along the length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel at a location spaced below the top flange;
a rear panel spanning between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange at a location spaced rearwardly from the front panel;
a plurality of vehicular signalling lights mounted in the rear panel;
at least one of the top flange and the rear panel defining a cover which is pivotal relative to a remainder of the bumper assembly between an open position in which the hollow interior of the bumper assembly is accessible through an access opening and a closed position in which a hollow interior of the bumper assembly is enclosed;
a first hinge component integrally formed on the cover such that the first hinge component and the cover comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material; and a second hinge component on the remainder of the bumper assembly such that the second hinge component and the remainder comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material;
the first and second hinge components being shaped to mate with one another for relative pivotal movement to define a pivot axis of the cover relative to the remainder of the bumper assembly between the open and closed positions thereof.
Preferably the first and second hinge components interlock with one another such that the cover cannot be removed from the remainder of the housing.
a rear panel spanning between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange at a location spaced rearwardly from the front panel;
a plurality of vehicular signalling lights mounted in the rear panel;
at least one of the top flange and the rear panel defining a cover which is pivotal relative to a remainder of the bumper assembly between an open position in which the hollow interior of the bumper assembly is accessible through an access opening and a closed position in which a hollow interior of the bumper assembly is enclosed;
a first hinge component integrally formed on the cover such that the first hinge component and the cover comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material; and a second hinge component on the remainder of the bumper assembly such that the second hinge component and the remainder comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material;
the first and second hinge components being shaped to mate with one another for relative pivotal movement to define a pivot axis of the cover relative to the remainder of the bumper assembly between the open and closed positions thereof.
Preferably the first and second hinge components interlock with one another such that the cover cannot be removed from the remainder of the housing.
6 Preferably the first hinge component of the cover is restrained in the laterally direction by the end caps of the bumper assembly.
According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer frame comprising:
a front panel spanning laterally between two opposed ends of the front panel and being arranged for mounting in an upright orientation in fixed relation to a rear end of the trailer frame;
a top flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the top flange along a length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel; and a bottom flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the bottom flange along the length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel at a location spaced below the top flange;
a rear panel spanning between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange at a location spaced rearwardly from the front panel;
a plurality of vehicular signalling lights mounted in the rear panel;
at least one of the top flange and the rear panel defining a cover which is pivotal relative to a remainder of the bumper assembly between an open position in which the hollow interior of the bumper assembly is accessible through an access opening and a closed position in which a hollow interior of the bumper assembly is enclosed; and a mounting channel supported on the front panel within the hollow interior of the bumper assembly to extend laterally between the two opposed ends of the front panel.
The mounting channel and the front panel preferably comprise a single,
According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer frame comprising:
a front panel spanning laterally between two opposed ends of the front panel and being arranged for mounting in an upright orientation in fixed relation to a rear end of the trailer frame;
a top flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the top flange along a length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel; and a bottom flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the bottom flange along the length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel at a location spaced below the top flange;
a rear panel spanning between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange at a location spaced rearwardly from the front panel;
a plurality of vehicular signalling lights mounted in the rear panel;
at least one of the top flange and the rear panel defining a cover which is pivotal relative to a remainder of the bumper assembly between an open position in which the hollow interior of the bumper assembly is accessible through an access opening and a closed position in which a hollow interior of the bumper assembly is enclosed; and a mounting channel supported on the front panel within the hollow interior of the bumper assembly to extend laterally between the two opposed ends of the front panel.
The mounting channel and the front panel preferably comprise a single,
7 unitary, seamless body of extruded material.
One embodiment of the invention will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of the light bar bumper assembly;
Figure 2 is a schematic representation of the light bar bumper assembly supported on a trailer frame;
Figure 3 is a rear elevational view of the housing and the cover of the bumper assembly in a closed position;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of the housing and the cover of the bumper assembly in the closed position;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of the housing and the cover of the bumper assembly in an open position;
Figure 6 is a sectional view of the housing and the cover of the bumper assembly along the line 6-6 of Figure 3, shown in the open position; and Figure 7 is a sectional view of the housing and the cover of the bumper assembly along the line 6-6 of Figure 3, shown in the closed position.
In the drawings like characters of reference indicate corresponding parts in the different figures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to the accompanying figures, there is illustrated a vehicular light bar bumper assembly generally indicated by reference numeral 10. The assembly 10 is particularly suited for use with a vehicular trailer frame 12 of the type commonly towed by highway tractor trucks, including flat deck trailers, box trailers, hopper trailers and the like for example.
One embodiment of the invention will now be described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 is a perspective view of the light bar bumper assembly;
Figure 2 is a schematic representation of the light bar bumper assembly supported on a trailer frame;
Figure 3 is a rear elevational view of the housing and the cover of the bumper assembly in a closed position;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of the housing and the cover of the bumper assembly in the closed position;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of the housing and the cover of the bumper assembly in an open position;
Figure 6 is a sectional view of the housing and the cover of the bumper assembly along the line 6-6 of Figure 3, shown in the open position; and Figure 7 is a sectional view of the housing and the cover of the bumper assembly along the line 6-6 of Figure 3, shown in the closed position.
In the drawings like characters of reference indicate corresponding parts in the different figures.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Referring to the accompanying figures, there is illustrated a vehicular light bar bumper assembly generally indicated by reference numeral 10. The assembly 10 is particularly suited for use with a vehicular trailer frame 12 of the type commonly towed by highway tractor trucks, including flat deck trailers, box trailers, hopper trailers and the like for example.
8 In general the trailer frame 12 typically extends in a longitudinal direction from a front end 14 having a king pin connection for connection to the towing vehicle 16 to a rear end 18 supported on a set of wheels such that the trailer frame is supported for rolling movement together with the towing vehicle in a forward working direction.
The assembly 10 generally includes a housing 20 arranged for mounting in fixed relation to the trailer frame 12, a cover 22 supported on the housing for movement relative to the housing between a closed position in which a hollow interior of the housing is enclosed by the cover and an open position in which the hollow interior is accessible through an opening in the housing, and vehicular signaling lights 24 supported on one or both of the housing 20 and/or cover 22. Wiring for the lights 24 is generally supported within the hollow interior of the housing.
The housing 20 generally includes a front panel 26 which is generally rectangular and mounted in a vertical orientation when supported on the trailer frame so as to be elongate in a lateral direction perpendicular to the forward working direction of the trailer. The front panel 26 spans the full width in the lateral direction between two opposing ends 28 of the housing. The front panel further spans the full height of the assembly between a top end 30 and a bottom edge 32 of the front panel.
A top flange 34 of the housing is similarly rectangular in shape and elongate in the lateral direction to span the full length of the housing between the two opposing ends 20. The top flange is perpendicular relative to the front panel so as to be generally horizontal in the mounted position to project rearward from the top edge of the front panel to a rear edge 36 of the top flange.
The majority of the top flange 34 lies in a generally horizontal common plane with the exception of an elongate channel 38 formed in the top flange to span
The assembly 10 generally includes a housing 20 arranged for mounting in fixed relation to the trailer frame 12, a cover 22 supported on the housing for movement relative to the housing between a closed position in which a hollow interior of the housing is enclosed by the cover and an open position in which the hollow interior is accessible through an opening in the housing, and vehicular signaling lights 24 supported on one or both of the housing 20 and/or cover 22. Wiring for the lights 24 is generally supported within the hollow interior of the housing.
The housing 20 generally includes a front panel 26 which is generally rectangular and mounted in a vertical orientation when supported on the trailer frame so as to be elongate in a lateral direction perpendicular to the forward working direction of the trailer. The front panel 26 spans the full width in the lateral direction between two opposing ends 28 of the housing. The front panel further spans the full height of the assembly between a top end 30 and a bottom edge 32 of the front panel.
A top flange 34 of the housing is similarly rectangular in shape and elongate in the lateral direction to span the full length of the housing between the two opposing ends 20. The top flange is perpendicular relative to the front panel so as to be generally horizontal in the mounted position to project rearward from the top edge of the front panel to a rear edge 36 of the top flange.
The majority of the top flange 34 lies in a generally horizontal common plane with the exception of an elongate channel 38 formed in the top flange to span
9 the full length in the lateral direction between the two opposing ends 28 of the housing. The channel includes a base flange 40 which is parallel but recessed downwardly relative to the remainder of the top flange 34 while being connected to the top flange by side flanges 42 connected between opposing edges of the base flange 40 and respective portions of the top flange 34 on either side of the channel.
The channel thus forms a recessed trough relative to the common plane of the remainder of the top flange.
The housing further includes a bottom flange 44 which similarly projects rearwardly from the front panel 26 to a respective rear edge 46 at a location spaced below the top flange so as to be parallel to the top flange. A bottom flange remains spaced above the bottom edge of the front panel but at a location which is closer to the bottom edge than the top of the front panel. In this manner, a portion of the front panel 26 projects downwardly beyond the bottom flange 44 at the front side of the housing.
The rear edge 46 of the bottom flange 44 includes an integral hinge component 47 formed therein which includes a first arcuate portion 48 and a second hook portion 50. The first portion 48 extends generally upwardly and rearwardly from the rear edge 46 of the bottom flange so as to be generally arcuate in profile having a convex interior or top side and a concave exterior or bottom side thereof. The second portion 50 depends downwardly from the rear end of the arcuate first portion 48 to terminate at a bottom free edge which is generally rounded in profile.
The top flange and the bottom flange effectively define a rear opening 52 at the rear side of the housing which is generally vertically oriented to span the full length of the housing between the two opposing ends 28 at the rear side while spanning substantially the full height between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange of the housing.
The housing further includes a mounting channel 54 on the rear surface of the front panel 26 such that the mounting channel is fully received within the hollow 5 interior of the housing. More particularly, the mounting channel 54 is continuous in profile in the lateral direction along the full length of the housing between the two opposing ends 28. The mounting channel 54 is approximately central in height between the top and bottom of the front panel so as to be similarly located at an intermediate location within the hollow interior of the housing at a location between
The channel thus forms a recessed trough relative to the common plane of the remainder of the top flange.
The housing further includes a bottom flange 44 which similarly projects rearwardly from the front panel 26 to a respective rear edge 46 at a location spaced below the top flange so as to be parallel to the top flange. A bottom flange remains spaced above the bottom edge of the front panel but at a location which is closer to the bottom edge than the top of the front panel. In this manner, a portion of the front panel 26 projects downwardly beyond the bottom flange 44 at the front side of the housing.
The rear edge 46 of the bottom flange 44 includes an integral hinge component 47 formed therein which includes a first arcuate portion 48 and a second hook portion 50. The first portion 48 extends generally upwardly and rearwardly from the rear edge 46 of the bottom flange so as to be generally arcuate in profile having a convex interior or top side and a concave exterior or bottom side thereof. The second portion 50 depends downwardly from the rear end of the arcuate first portion 48 to terminate at a bottom free edge which is generally rounded in profile.
The top flange and the bottom flange effectively define a rear opening 52 at the rear side of the housing which is generally vertically oriented to span the full length of the housing between the two opposing ends 28 at the rear side while spanning substantially the full height between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange of the housing.
The housing further includes a mounting channel 54 on the rear surface of the front panel 26 such that the mounting channel is fully received within the hollow 5 interior of the housing. More particularly, the mounting channel 54 is continuous in profile in the lateral direction along the full length of the housing between the two opposing ends 28. The mounting channel 54 is approximately central in height between the top and bottom of the front panel so as to be similarly located at an intermediate location within the hollow interior of the housing at a location between
10 the top and bottom flanges so as to be spaced from both the top and bottom flanges while being closer to the bottom flange than the top flange.
The mounting channel 54 generally includes an upper flange 56 and a lower flange 58 projecting rearward in perpendicular orientation to the front panel 26 from which they project. The lower flange 58 is parallel and spaced below the upper flange 56. The inner free edges 61 of both the upper flange 56 and the lower flange 58 are hook shaped relative to the remainder of the flange such that both free edges 61 project inwardly towards one another such that the mounting channel 54 has a generally C-shaped boundary about the hollow interior thereof as defined by the upper flange 56 the lower flange 58 and a portion of the front panel connected therebetween at the front side.
The internal recess of the mounting channel 54 is suitable for receiving a bolt head 60 of suitable fasteners slidable therein in the lateral direction between the opposing ends 28. The upper and lower flanges of the mounting channel mate with corresponding flat surfaces of the bolt heads with sufficiently close proximity to resist rotation of the bolt heads about respective axes thereof. A corresponding threaded
The mounting channel 54 generally includes an upper flange 56 and a lower flange 58 projecting rearward in perpendicular orientation to the front panel 26 from which they project. The lower flange 58 is parallel and spaced below the upper flange 56. The inner free edges 61 of both the upper flange 56 and the lower flange 58 are hook shaped relative to the remainder of the flange such that both free edges 61 project inwardly towards one another such that the mounting channel 54 has a generally C-shaped boundary about the hollow interior thereof as defined by the upper flange 56 the lower flange 58 and a portion of the front panel connected therebetween at the front side.
The internal recess of the mounting channel 54 is suitable for receiving a bolt head 60 of suitable fasteners slidable therein in the lateral direction between the opposing ends 28. The upper and lower flanges of the mounting channel mate with corresponding flat surfaces of the bolt heads with sufficiently close proximity to resist rotation of the bolt heads about respective axes thereof. A corresponding threaded
11 portion 62 of each fastener projects from the bolt head through the opening between the free edges 61 of the upper and lower flanges to project sufficiently into the hollow interior of the housing to permit a respective nut 64 to be secured thereon for fastening wiring clips 66 in fixed relation to the housing within the hollow interior .. thereof.
All of the components of the housing as described above, including the front panel 26, the top flange 34, the bottom flange 44, the hinge component at the rear edge of the bottom flange, and the mounting channel 54 are all extruded together so as to be continuous in profile along the full length between the opposing ends 28 in the lateral direction and so as to be formed as a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material which is integral throughout.
Likewise, the cover 22 is formed as a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material which is integral throughout including a rear panel 68, a hinge component 70 at a bottom edge of the rear panel and a fastener flange 72 joined to .. the rear panel 68 as described in further detail below.
The rear panel 68 is generally rectangular in shape and is elongate in the lateral direction to span the full length of the housing between the two opposing ends 28 thereof. The rear panel 68 similarly spans the full height of the hollow interior of the housing between the top and bottom flanges respectively.
The hinge component 70 is integrally formed at the bottom edge of the rear panel 68 to span the full length of the housing in the lateral direction.
The hinge component 70 interlocks with the corresponding hinge component 47 of the housing such that the hinge componeots interlock to allow relative sliding in the lateral direction for assembly while being restricted to a generally relative pivotal movement about a horizontal pivot axis between the open and closed positions of the cover
All of the components of the housing as described above, including the front panel 26, the top flange 34, the bottom flange 44, the hinge component at the rear edge of the bottom flange, and the mounting channel 54 are all extruded together so as to be continuous in profile along the full length between the opposing ends 28 in the lateral direction and so as to be formed as a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material which is integral throughout.
Likewise, the cover 22 is formed as a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material which is integral throughout including a rear panel 68, a hinge component 70 at a bottom edge of the rear panel and a fastener flange 72 joined to .. the rear panel 68 as described in further detail below.
The rear panel 68 is generally rectangular in shape and is elongate in the lateral direction to span the full length of the housing between the two opposing ends 28 thereof. The rear panel 68 similarly spans the full height of the hollow interior of the housing between the top and bottom flanges respectively.
The hinge component 70 is integrally formed at the bottom edge of the rear panel 68 to span the full length of the housing in the lateral direction.
The hinge component 70 interlocks with the corresponding hinge component 47 of the housing such that the hinge componeots interlock to allow relative sliding in the lateral direction for assembly while being restricted to a generally relative pivotal movement about a horizontal pivot axis between the open and closed positions of the cover
12 relative to the housing once assembled. More particularly, the pivot axis of the cover relative to housing is situated approximately at the bottom end of the rear panel 68 corresponding to the rear edge of the bottom flange of the housing.
When the cover is pivoted into the closed position, the rear panel 68 fully spans the rear opening in the housing for enclosing the hollow interior thereof while the rear panel 68 is generally vertical in orientation, parallel to the front panel but spaced rearward therefrom.
The fastener flange 72 of the cover is fixed to the forward, interior side of the rear panel 68 to project forwardly therefrom adjacent to and immediately below the top flange of the housing in the closed position. More particularly in the closed position, the top edge 74 of the rear panel is received immediately below the rear edge of the top flange of the housing such that the top edge of the rear panel abuts against the side flange at the rear side of the channel 38 formed in the top flange. In this instance, the rearmost side flange 32 of the mounting channel 38 forms a shoulder surface supported below the top flange 34 against which the top edge of the rear panel 68 of the cover is abutted in the closed position. The shoulder surface is spaced forwardly from the rear edge of the top flange such that a rear portion of the top flange protrudes rearwardly beyond and overhangs the cover in the closed position of the cover.
The fastener flange is spaced slightly below the top edge 74 of the rear panel by height corresponding approximately to the height of the channel 38 recessed below the top flange 34 such that the fastener flange in the closed position is generally horizontal and in close proximity below the base flange 40 of the channel in the top of the housing 20. Suitable fastener apertures are provided in both the fastener flange 72 and the base flange 40 at the top of the housing for alignment with one another in the closed position such that suitable fasteners 76 can be threaded into the aligned fastener apertures for securing the rear panel in the closed position.
The hinge component 70 generally includes a lower hook portion 78 which is curved upwardly and forwardly from the bottom edge of the rear panel 68 in the closed position and an upper hook portion 80 as described in further detail below.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-07-16
When the cover is pivoted into the closed position, the rear panel 68 fully spans the rear opening in the housing for enclosing the hollow interior thereof while the rear panel 68 is generally vertical in orientation, parallel to the front panel but spaced rearward therefrom.
The fastener flange 72 of the cover is fixed to the forward, interior side of the rear panel 68 to project forwardly therefrom adjacent to and immediately below the top flange of the housing in the closed position. More particularly in the closed position, the top edge 74 of the rear panel is received immediately below the rear edge of the top flange of the housing such that the top edge of the rear panel abuts against the side flange at the rear side of the channel 38 formed in the top flange. In this instance, the rearmost side flange 32 of the mounting channel 38 forms a shoulder surface supported below the top flange 34 against which the top edge of the rear panel 68 of the cover is abutted in the closed position. The shoulder surface is spaced forwardly from the rear edge of the top flange such that a rear portion of the top flange protrudes rearwardly beyond and overhangs the cover in the closed position of the cover.
The fastener flange is spaced slightly below the top edge 74 of the rear panel by height corresponding approximately to the height of the channel 38 recessed below the top flange 34 such that the fastener flange in the closed position is generally horizontal and in close proximity below the base flange 40 of the channel in the top of the housing 20. Suitable fastener apertures are provided in both the fastener flange 72 and the base flange 40 at the top of the housing for alignment with one another in the closed position such that suitable fasteners 76 can be threaded into the aligned fastener apertures for securing the rear panel in the closed position.
The hinge component 70 generally includes a lower hook portion 78 which is curved upwardly and forwardly from the bottom edge of the rear panel 68 in the closed position and an upper hook portion 80 as described in further detail below.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-07-16
13 The lower hook portion 78 has a concave interior side and a convex bottom or exterior side such that the lower hook 78 is suited for mating about the bottom free edge of the second portion 50 of the hinge component 47.
The upper hook portion 80 is in the form of an arcuate flange projecting generally forwardly and downwardly above the arcuate first portion 48 of the hinge component 47 of the housing in the closed position. More particularly, the upper hook portion 80 is arcuate in profile having a concave bottom surface mating with the convex top surface of the first portion 48 of the hinge component 47.
The mating of the curved surfaces of the corresponding portions of the two hinge components effectively couples the cover for pivotal movement relative to the housing between the open and closed positions described above. More particularly, the cover can be pivoted from the vertical closed position to an open position in which the rear panel 68 forming the cover projects generally rearward away from the rear opening at a slight upward slope such that the rear opening of the housing is substantially unobstructed by the cover.
In the open position, the free end of the lower hook portion 78 abuts the end of a corresponding slot between the first and second portions of the hinge component 47 to prevent continued rotation of the rear panel away from the closed position beyond the open position shown in Figure 6.
The bumper assembly further includes a pair of end caps 82 arranged to be mounted at the two opposing ends 28 of the housing so as to be parallel to one another and perpendicular to the lateral direction. Each end cap 82 comprises a generally rectangular panel which fully encloses a respective end of the housing to span the full height between the top and bottom flanges of the housing while spanning
The upper hook portion 80 is in the form of an arcuate flange projecting generally forwardly and downwardly above the arcuate first portion 48 of the hinge component 47 of the housing in the closed position. More particularly, the upper hook portion 80 is arcuate in profile having a concave bottom surface mating with the convex top surface of the first portion 48 of the hinge component 47.
The mating of the curved surfaces of the corresponding portions of the two hinge components effectively couples the cover for pivotal movement relative to the housing between the open and closed positions described above. More particularly, the cover can be pivoted from the vertical closed position to an open position in which the rear panel 68 forming the cover projects generally rearward away from the rear opening at a slight upward slope such that the rear opening of the housing is substantially unobstructed by the cover.
In the open position, the free end of the lower hook portion 78 abuts the end of a corresponding slot between the first and second portions of the hinge component 47 to prevent continued rotation of the rear panel away from the closed position beyond the open position shown in Figure 6.
The bumper assembly further includes a pair of end caps 82 arranged to be mounted at the two opposing ends 28 of the housing so as to be parallel to one another and perpendicular to the lateral direction. Each end cap 82 comprises a generally rectangular panel which fully encloses a respective end of the housing to span the full height between the top and bottom flanges of the housing while spanning
14 the full depth of the housing between the front panel and the rear panel in the closed position.
The top flange is slightly longer in the rearward direction from the front panel than the bottom flange such that the rear opening has a slight upward and rearward slope from the rear edge of the bottom flange to the rear edge of the top flange of the housing. Accordingly, the rear edge of each end cap is similarly slightly sloped to extend upward at a slight rearward slope in the mounted position from the bottom end to the top end thereof.
Each end cap spans over a respective end of the mated hinge components in the assembled configuration. In this manner, the hinge components are interlocked with one another by sliding the cover panel in the lateral direction relative to the housing for assembly, however once the cover is aligned with the housing in the lateral direction, the end caps 82 are mounted at both ends of the housing to span the opposing ends of the hinge components and effectively retain the hinge component of the cover between the two end caps 82 fixed on the housing so as to restrict sliding of the cover relative to the housing in the lateral direction in the mounted position.
Each end cap 82 is mounted in fixed relation to the housing by providing each end cap with a top edge flange 84 and a bottom edge flange 86 projecting horizontally inward from corresponding top and bottom edges of the end caps to extend inwardly in overlapping configuration overtop the top flange of the housing and below the bottom flange of the housing respectively. Corresponding fastener apertures receive suitable fasteners 88 extending through the edge flanges and through corresponding apertures at opposing ends of the top and bottom flanges for fastening the end caps with threaded fasteners that permit the end caps to be subsequently readily released from the housing as desired.
The rear panel is further provided with light apertures 90 laterally spaced apart positions along the length of the two opposing ends 26 of the housing.
Each 5 light aperture 90 mounts a respective light assembly 92 therein. Each light assembly includes a generally circular housing received within the light aperture together with a peripheral flange 94 which overlaps a rear side of the rear panel about a periphery of the light aperture 90 to permit fasteners to selectively fix each light assembly to the rear panel. Once mounted in place, the light assemblies are pivotal together with the 10 rear panel of the cover relative to the housing between the open and closed positions.
Each end cap is further provided with a light aperture 96 formed centrally therein for similarly receiving therein for similarly receiving a respective light assembly 98 therein which similarly includes a peripheral mounting flange for being fastened to the end cap.
The top flange is slightly longer in the rearward direction from the front panel than the bottom flange such that the rear opening has a slight upward and rearward slope from the rear edge of the bottom flange to the rear edge of the top flange of the housing. Accordingly, the rear edge of each end cap is similarly slightly sloped to extend upward at a slight rearward slope in the mounted position from the bottom end to the top end thereof.
Each end cap spans over a respective end of the mated hinge components in the assembled configuration. In this manner, the hinge components are interlocked with one another by sliding the cover panel in the lateral direction relative to the housing for assembly, however once the cover is aligned with the housing in the lateral direction, the end caps 82 are mounted at both ends of the housing to span the opposing ends of the hinge components and effectively retain the hinge component of the cover between the two end caps 82 fixed on the housing so as to restrict sliding of the cover relative to the housing in the lateral direction in the mounted position.
Each end cap 82 is mounted in fixed relation to the housing by providing each end cap with a top edge flange 84 and a bottom edge flange 86 projecting horizontally inward from corresponding top and bottom edges of the end caps to extend inwardly in overlapping configuration overtop the top flange of the housing and below the bottom flange of the housing respectively. Corresponding fastener apertures receive suitable fasteners 88 extending through the edge flanges and through corresponding apertures at opposing ends of the top and bottom flanges for fastening the end caps with threaded fasteners that permit the end caps to be subsequently readily released from the housing as desired.
The rear panel is further provided with light apertures 90 laterally spaced apart positions along the length of the two opposing ends 26 of the housing.
Each 5 light aperture 90 mounts a respective light assembly 92 therein. Each light assembly includes a generally circular housing received within the light aperture together with a peripheral flange 94 which overlaps a rear side of the rear panel about a periphery of the light aperture 90 to permit fasteners to selectively fix each light assembly to the rear panel. Once mounted in place, the light assemblies are pivotal together with the 10 rear panel of the cover relative to the housing between the open and closed positions.
Each end cap is further provided with a light aperture 96 formed centrally therein for similarly receiving therein for similarly receiving a respective light assembly 98 therein which similarly includes a peripheral mounting flange for being fastened to the end cap.
15 The front panel 26 of the housing is further provided with a plurality of bolt holes at laterally spaced positions along the length thereof to receive threaded fasteners for bolting the housing to corresponding frame portions of the trailer frame.
Once mounted in place, wiring for the rear signaling lights of the trailer frame extend from the trailer frame through a suitable wiring aperture 102 also located in the front panel of the housing. The wiring 104 is typically sealed relative to the surrounding aperture 102 by a suitable resilient plug receiving the wiring therethrough but maintaining a sealed connection with the surrounding perimeter of the aperture 102.
The wiring 104 is then received through the wiring clips mounted within the mounting channel 54 for communicating with all of the respective light assemblies
Once mounted in place, wiring for the rear signaling lights of the trailer frame extend from the trailer frame through a suitable wiring aperture 102 also located in the front panel of the housing. The wiring 104 is typically sealed relative to the surrounding aperture 102 by a suitable resilient plug receiving the wiring therethrough but maintaining a sealed connection with the surrounding perimeter of the aperture 102.
The wiring 104 is then received through the wiring clips mounted within the mounting channel 54 for communicating with all of the respective light assemblies
16 in the light apertures 90 and 96 while maintaining the wiring supported spaced above the bottom flange of the housing within the hollow interior of the housing.
With the cover in the open position, the user is provided with ready access to the wiring connections to the different light assemblies as well as being provided with ready access to the threaded fastener connection of the bumper assembly to the trailer frame. Together with the threaded fastener connection of the end caps 82 which in turn selectively retain the cover interlocked with the remainder of the housing, ready removal of threaded fasteners permits any one of the light assemblies, the end caps, the cover, or the entire housing to be readily interchanged on the trailer frame or relative to one another for repair or replacement as may be desired.
In the closed position of the cover, the wiring is securely contained within the hollow interior of the bumper assembly at a location spaced above the bottom flange to be suspended above any collected moisture within the hollow interior.
Since various modifications can be made in my invention as herein above described, it is intended that all matter contained in the accompanying specification shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not in a limiting sense.
With the cover in the open position, the user is provided with ready access to the wiring connections to the different light assemblies as well as being provided with ready access to the threaded fastener connection of the bumper assembly to the trailer frame. Together with the threaded fastener connection of the end caps 82 which in turn selectively retain the cover interlocked with the remainder of the housing, ready removal of threaded fasteners permits any one of the light assemblies, the end caps, the cover, or the entire housing to be readily interchanged on the trailer frame or relative to one another for repair or replacement as may be desired.
In the closed position of the cover, the wiring is securely contained within the hollow interior of the bumper assembly at a location spaced above the bottom flange to be suspended above any collected moisture within the hollow interior.
Since various modifications can be made in my invention as herein above described, it is intended that all matter contained in the accompanying specification shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not in a limiting sense.
Claims (23)
1. A light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer frame comprising:
a housing arranged for mounting in fixed relation to a rear end of the trailer frame including:
a front panel spanning laterally between two opposed ends of the housing in an upright orientation;
a top flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the top flange along a length of the front panel between the ends of the housing;
a bottom flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the bottom flange along the length of the front panel between the ends of the housing at a location spaced below the top flange to define a rear opening in the housing between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange;
a shoulder surface supported below the top flange;
a cover comprising a rear panel arranged to span the rear opening of the housing;
a hinge assembly connecting a bottom of the rear panel to the bottom flange of the housing such that the cover is pivotal relative to the housing between a closed position in which the rear panel spans the rear opening along the length of the housing between the ends thereof and an open position in which the rear panel extends away from the rear opening such that the rear opening is substantially unobstructed by the rear panel;
a top edge of the rear panel of the cover abutting the shoulder surface of the housing in the closed position of the cover;
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-07-16 the shoulder surface being spaced forwardly from a rear edge of the top flange such that a rear portion of the top flange protrudes rearwardly beyond the cover in the closed position of the cover; and a plurality of vehicular signalling lights mounted in the rear panel for movement together with the cover between the open and closed positions.
a housing arranged for mounting in fixed relation to a rear end of the trailer frame including:
a front panel spanning laterally between two opposed ends of the housing in an upright orientation;
a top flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the top flange along a length of the front panel between the ends of the housing;
a bottom flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the bottom flange along the length of the front panel between the ends of the housing at a location spaced below the top flange to define a rear opening in the housing between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange;
a shoulder surface supported below the top flange;
a cover comprising a rear panel arranged to span the rear opening of the housing;
a hinge assembly connecting a bottom of the rear panel to the bottom flange of the housing such that the cover is pivotal relative to the housing between a closed position in which the rear panel spans the rear opening along the length of the housing between the ends thereof and an open position in which the rear panel extends away from the rear opening such that the rear opening is substantially unobstructed by the rear panel;
a top edge of the rear panel of the cover abutting the shoulder surface of the housing in the closed position of the cover;
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-07-16 the shoulder surface being spaced forwardly from a rear edge of the top flange such that a rear portion of the top flange protrudes rearwardly beyond the cover in the closed position of the cover; and a plurality of vehicular signalling lights mounted in the rear panel for movement together with the cover between the open and closed positions.
2. The assembly according to Claim 1 wherein the hinge assembly comprises:
a first hinge component integrally formed on the cover such that the first hinge component and the cover comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material; and a second hinge component on the housing such that the second hinge component and the housing comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material;
the first and second hinge components being shaped to mate with one another for relative pivotal movement to define a pivot axis of the cover relative to the housing between the open and closed positions thereof.
a first hinge component integrally formed on the cover such that the first hinge component and the cover comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material; and a second hinge component on the housing such that the second hinge component and the housing comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material;
the first and second hinge components being shaped to mate with one another for relative pivotal movement to define a pivot axis of the cover relative to the housing between the open and closed positions thereof.
3. The assembly according to claim 2 further comprising a pair of end caps supported at opposing ends of the housing in fixed relation to the housing, the first hinge component of the cover being restrained in the lateral direction by the end caps.
4. The assembly according to Claim 3 wherein the end caps are readily releasable from the housing and wherein the first hinge component is laterally slidable relative to the second hinge component on the housing when the end caps are released from the housing.
5. The assembly according to either one of Claims 3 or 4 wherein the end caps fully enclose the opposing ends of the housing respectively.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-07-16
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-07-16
6.
The assembly according to any one of Claims 3 through 5 wherein each end cap spans a full height between the top flange and the bottom flange and spans a full depth between the front panel and the rear panel in the closed position of the cover.
The assembly according to any one of Claims 3 through 5 wherein each end cap spans a full height between the top flange and the bottom flange and spans a full depth between the front panel and the rear panel in the closed position of the cover.
7. The assembly according to any one of Claims 3 through 6 wherein the end caps each support a secondary signalling light therein.
8.
The assembly according to Claim 1 wherein the cover is pivotal relative to the housing between the open and closed positions about a pivot axis located at the rear edge of the bottom flange.
The assembly according to Claim 1 wherein the cover is pivotal relative to the housing between the open and closed positions about a pivot axis located at the rear edge of the bottom flange.
9. The assembly according to any one of Claims 1 through 8 further comprising a mounting channel supported on the front panel within a hollow interior of the housing to extend laterally between the two opposed ends of the housing.
10.
The assembly according to Claim 9 wherein the mounting channel and the front panel comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material.
The assembly according to Claim 9 wherein the mounting channel and the front panel comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material.
11. The assembly according to either one of claims 9 or 10 further comprising wiring connected to the vehicular signalling lights and a plurality of wiring clips removably secured to the mounting channel, the wiring clips supporting the wiring spaced above the bottom flange of the housing.
12. The assembly according to any one of Claims 1 through 11 wherein the cover further comprises a fastener flange protruding forwardly from the rear panel adjacent to the top flange in the closed position, the fastener flange of the cover and the top flange of the housing being arranged to receive common fasteners therethrough to selectively retain the cover in the closed position.
13. The assembly according to Claim 12 wherein the fastener flange is received below the top flange in the closed position of the cover.
Date recue / Date received 2021-12-16
Date recue / Date received 2021-12-16
14. The assembly according to Claim 13 wherein the top flange of the housing includes a recessed channel formed therein which is arranged to receive said common fasteners therein, the recessed channel defining said shoulder surface thereon.
15. A light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer frame comprising:
a front panel spanning laterally between two opposed ends of the front panel and being arranged for mounting in an upright orientation in fixed relation to a rear end of the trailer frame;
a top flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the top flange along a length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel; and a bottom flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the bottom flange along the length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel at a location spaced below the top flange;
a rear panel spanning between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange at a location spaced rearwardly from the front panel;
a plurality of vehicular signalling lights mounted in the rear panel;
at least one of the top flange and the rear panel defining a cover which is pivotal relative to a remainder of the bumper assembly between an open position in which a hollow interior of the bumper assembly is accessible through an access opening and a closed position in which the hollow interior of the bumper assembly is enclosed;
a first hinge component integrally formed on the cover such that the first hinge component and the cover comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded Date recue / Date received 2021-12-16 material; and a second hinge component on the remainder of the bumper assembly such that the second hinge component and the remainder comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material;
the first and second hinge components being shaped to mate with one another for relative pivotal movement to define a pivot axis of the cover relative to the remainder of the bumper assembly between the open and closed positions thereof; and a pair of end caps supported at opposing ends of said remainder of the bumper assembly in fixed relation to said remainder of the bumper assembly for enclosing the opposing ends of said remainder of the bumper assembly, the first hinge component of the cover being restrained in the lateral direction relative to said remainder of the bumper assembly by the end caps.
a front panel spanning laterally between two opposed ends of the front panel and being arranged for mounting in an upright orientation in fixed relation to a rear end of the trailer frame;
a top flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the top flange along a length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel; and a bottom flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the bottom flange along the length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel at a location spaced below the top flange;
a rear panel spanning between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange at a location spaced rearwardly from the front panel;
a plurality of vehicular signalling lights mounted in the rear panel;
at least one of the top flange and the rear panel defining a cover which is pivotal relative to a remainder of the bumper assembly between an open position in which a hollow interior of the bumper assembly is accessible through an access opening and a closed position in which the hollow interior of the bumper assembly is enclosed;
a first hinge component integrally formed on the cover such that the first hinge component and the cover comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded Date recue / Date received 2021-12-16 material; and a second hinge component on the remainder of the bumper assembly such that the second hinge component and the remainder comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material;
the first and second hinge components being shaped to mate with one another for relative pivotal movement to define a pivot axis of the cover relative to the remainder of the bumper assembly between the open and closed positions thereof; and a pair of end caps supported at opposing ends of said remainder of the bumper assembly in fixed relation to said remainder of the bumper assembly for enclosing the opposing ends of said remainder of the bumper assembly, the first hinge component of the cover being restrained in the lateral direction relative to said remainder of the bumper assembly by the end caps.
16. The assembly according to Claim 15 wherein the end caps are readily releasable from said remainder of the bumper assembly and wherein the first hinge component is laterally slidable relative to the second hinge component when the end caps are released from said remainder of the bumper assembly.
17. The assembly according to either one of Claims 15 or 16 wherein each end cap spans a full height between the top flange and the bottom flange and spans a full depth between the front panel and the rear panel in the closed position.
18. The assembly according to any one of Claims 15 through 17 wherein the end caps are fixed to said remainder of the bumper assembly using fasteners such that the end caps are readily releasable from the bumper assembly.
19. The assembly according to any one of Claims 15 through 18 wherein the end caps each support a secondary signalling light therein.
20. A light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer frame Date recue / Date received 2021-12-16 comprising:
a front panel spanning laterally between two opposed ends of the front panel and being arranged for mounting in an upright orientation in fixed relation to a rear end of the trailer frame;
a top flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the top flange along a length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel; and a bottom flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the bottom flange along the length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel at a location spaced below the top flange;
a rear panel spanning between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange at a location spaced rearwardly from the front panel;
a plurality of vehicular signalling lights mounted in the rear panel;
at least one of the top flange and the rear panel defining a cover which is pivotal relative to a remainder of the bumper assembly between an open position in which a hollow interior of the bumper assembly is accessible through an access opening and a closed position in which the hollow interior of the bumper assembly is enclosed; and a mounting channel supported on the front panel within the hollow interior of the bumper assembly to extend laterally between the two opposed ends of the front panel, the mounting channel being arranged for supporting wiring associated with the vehicular signalling lights thereon at a location spaced above the bottom flange.
a front panel spanning laterally between two opposed ends of the front panel and being arranged for mounting in an upright orientation in fixed relation to a rear end of the trailer frame;
a top flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the top flange along a length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel; and a bottom flange protruding rearwardly from the front panel towards a rear edge of the bottom flange along the length of the front panel between the ends of the front panel at a location spaced below the top flange;
a rear panel spanning between the rear edge of the top flange and the rear edge of the bottom flange at a location spaced rearwardly from the front panel;
a plurality of vehicular signalling lights mounted in the rear panel;
at least one of the top flange and the rear panel defining a cover which is pivotal relative to a remainder of the bumper assembly between an open position in which a hollow interior of the bumper assembly is accessible through an access opening and a closed position in which the hollow interior of the bumper assembly is enclosed; and a mounting channel supported on the front panel within the hollow interior of the bumper assembly to extend laterally between the two opposed ends of the front panel, the mounting channel being arranged for supporting wiring associated with the vehicular signalling lights thereon at a location spaced above the bottom flange.
21. The assembly according to Claim 20 wherein the mounting channel and the front panel comprise a single, unitary, seamless body of extruded material.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-07-16
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-07-16
22. The assembly according to either one of claims 20 or 21 in combination with said wiring, the wiring being connected to the vehicular signalling lights, the assembly further comprising a plurality of wiring clips removably secured to the mounting channel in which the wiring clips support the wiring spaced above the bottom flange.
23. The assembly according to any one of claims 20 through 22 wherein the mounting channel is arranged to support a plurality of fasteners thereon such that a bolt head of each fastener is longitudinally slidable along the mounting channel while being restricted from rotating relative to the mounting channel.
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-07-16
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-07-16
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2895528A CA2895528C (en) | 2015-06-22 | 2015-06-22 | Light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2895528A CA2895528C (en) | 2015-06-22 | 2015-06-22 | Light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2895528A1 CA2895528A1 (en) | 2016-12-22 |
| CA2895528C true CA2895528C (en) | 2022-10-25 |
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Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2895528A Active CA2895528C (en) | 2015-06-22 | 2015-06-22 | Light bar bumper assembly for a vehicular trailer |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2895528C (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR3118132A1 (en) * | 2020-12-22 | 2022-06-24 | Psa Automobiles Sa | PROTECTION DEVICE AGAINST IMPACTS WITH INTEGRATED OPTICAL BLOCK IN CONSTRAINED ENVIRONMENT, FOR A VEHICLE |
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2015
- 2015-06-22 CA CA2895528A patent/CA2895528C/en active Active
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| CA2895528A1 (en) | 2016-12-22 |
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