Magnetized apron assembly

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.

1 . A detachable apron assembly for a bathtub, whirlpool or shower apparatus comprising a frame member and access panel, wherein said frame member is attached to said access panel using magnetic means. 
   
   
       2 . The apron assembly of  claim 1 , wherein said frame member comprises at least two opposing open sections with a central supporting section in between. 
   
   
       3 . The apron assembly of  claim 1 , wherein said magnetic means comprises a magnet and a steel plate. 
   
   
       4 . The apron assembly of  claim 3 , wherein said magnet is a rare earth magnet, a neodymium magnet, a Cast Alnico magnet, a Sintered Alnico magnet or a hard ferrite magnet. 
   
   
       5 . The apron assembly of  claim 3 , wherein said magnetic means comprises one or more magnets chosen from the group consisting of rare earth magnets, neodymium magnets, Cast Alnico magnets, Sintered Alnico magnets and lard ferrite magnets. 
   
   
       6 . The apron assembly of  claim 1 , which attaches to at least a portion of the outer rim of said bathtub, whirlpool assembly or shower apparatus. 
   
   
       7 . A system for aesthetically covering access openings in a bathtub, whirlpool or shower assembly when interior access is not required, comprising the apron assembly of  claim 1 . 
   
   
       8 . A bathtub, whirlpool or shower apparatus that includes the apron assembly of  claim 1 .