Wabash National has patented a composite cargo body structure featuring an embedded electrical grid within fiber-reinforced polymer layers. This design enhances power distribution, structural integrity, and includes sensors for monitoring conditions such as temperature and moisture in refrigerated trailers. GlobalData’s report on Wabash National gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Wabash National, Foamed multilayer laminates was a key innovation area identified from patents. Wabash National's grant share as of July 2024 was 52%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Composite cargo body with embedded electrical grid
The granted patent US12017435B2 describes a laminated composite structure specifically designed for the cargo body of refrigerated trailers. This innovative structure consists of a core layer sandwiched between an outer and an inner fiber-reinforced polymer layer. A key feature of this composite is the inclusion of an embedded electrical grid, which comprises two sets of conductive fibers arranged perpendicularly to each other, along with intermediate insulating fibers. This configuration not only enhances the structural integrity of the composite but also allows for the integration of various sensors, such as temperature, moisture, GPS, load, and accelerometers, which can communicate the operational state of the refrigerated trailer.
Further details of the patent highlight that the conductive fibers are stitched into a mat formed by the insulating fibers, which may be made of glass. The electrical grid is designed to be powered in an alternating manner, and the trailer is equipped with a power source that connects to this grid. Additionally, a control system is incorporated to monitor the integrity of the electrical grid, capable of detecting and locating any breaks. This composite structure aims to improve the functionality and reliability of refrigerated trailers, ensuring that the cargo is maintained at the desired conditions during transport.
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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
