Magnetized apron assembly

Inactive Publication Date: 2009-10-15
MAAX BATH
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  • Summary
  • Abstract
  • Description
  • Claims
  • Application Information

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0010]The use of magnets in lieu of traditional mechanical means confers several advantages. First, it does not cause damage to either the frame member or the access panel. Second, the access panel can be more readily removed without risk of breakage. Third, the overall appearance of the bathtub can be improved due to the fact that the magnetic elements are concealed from view.

Problems solved by technology

Whirlpool spas and showers often have the same limitations as showers.
A problem can arise when installing aprons and securing them to the bathing fixture.
Traditional means that are used to install aprons include bolts and clips, and these can weaken the aprons over time and otherwise damage them.
They can also make removal of apron assemblies difficult when it is necessary to gain access to the operating equipment.

Method used

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Examples

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Embodiment Construction

[0018]The novelty of the present invention resides in the positioning of one or more magnetic elements within an apron assembly. These magnets replace more traditional fixation means that are used for bathtubs, whirlpools and showers, such as bolts and clips. Advantageously, the use of magnets minimizes damage to the apron assembly and facilitates removal of the access panel for maintenance and repairs.

[0019]FIGS. 1 and 2 show a bathtub that includes an apron assembly in accordance with the present invention. The bathtub 10 includes an outwardly extending rim 12 all around its top edge. The apron assembly 40 is attached to one of the longitudinal sides 14 of the bathtub against the rim 12 to enclose that side of the bathtub. The other longitudinal side 16 may be similarly enclosed, as well as the front and back ends 18 and 20 of the tub, though in many cases only one longitudinal side 14 or 16 will be so enclosed, the other three sides being positioned against a wall or similar encl...

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PUM

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Abstract

The present invention relates generally to structures for enclosing bathing fixtures, such as bathtubs, whirlpools and showers. More particularly, it relates to an apron assembly comprising a frame member and an access panel that are held together through magnetic means.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]The present invention relates generally to structures for enclosing bathing fixtures, such as bathtubs, whirlpools and showers. More particularly, it relates to a novel apron assembly that is suitable for attachment thereto.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Conventional bathtubs are provided with front panels or aprons that are not detachable. In order to make the plumbing connections for the tub after the tub is in place, access thereto must be provided through a door or opening in a wall against which the tub abuts. This same door is necessary for making repairs. Whirlpool spas and showers often have the same limitations as showers.[0003]Aprons (also referred to herein as “apron assemblies”) for bathtubs and whirlpools are commonly used to give a finished look to a bathtub or whirlpool. They provide access, when needed, to equipment such as pumps, motors, piping and other operating equipment located behind the apron. A problem can arise when installing a...

Claims

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Application Information

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IPC IPC(8): A47K3/02
CPCA47K3/161
Inventor LEBRUN, NICOLASSAUVAGEAU, DAVIDISABELLE, PAULGENOIS, PATRICEHAMEL, PIERRE
Owner MAAX BATH
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