MAGNETIC CLASP SHOWER CURTAIN HANGER

Abstract

The present invention relates to an advanced shower curtain hanger system featuring a magnetic snap-apart and curtain retention mechanism, enabling quick and effortless attachment and removal of shower curtains. The system utilizes integrated neodymium magnets within durable body structures, eliminating the need for traditional clasps or hooks. Additionally, the hanger incorporates various curtain retention systems, including frictional surfaces, elastic tensioning, weighted elements, and inherent material grip properties, to prevent lateral movement and ensure stability. The hanger body may be formed from materials such as plastic, wood, metal, silicone, or composite materials and can take various shapes, including circular, horseshoe-shaped, unibody, or other suitable geometric configurations. The neodymium magnets may be coated with some durable, water resistant composite to prevent any degradation. This versatile design offers user-friendly solutions for maintaining and cleaning shower curtains with minimal effort while providing aesthetic and functional benefits.

Claims

1. A shower curtain hanger comprising: a left curved body comprising a left curved body frame with an internal curvature, a left distal end, a grooved indentation at said distal end, and a left magnetically responsive material, wherein said left left magnetically responsive material is embedded within said left curved body frame underneath said grooved indentation at said left distal end; a right curved body comprising a right curved body frame with an internal curvature, a right distal end, a protrusion at said distal end, and a right magnetically responsive material, wherein said right magnetically responsive material is located at said protrusion at said right distal end; a coating that encompasses said right curved body frame and said left curved body frame; and, a hinge unit.

2. The shower curtain hanger of claim 1, wherein both the left curved body and the right curved body are made of ABS plastic.

3. The shower curtain hanger of claim 1, wherein both the left curved body and the right curved body are made of high-grade silicone.

4. The shower curtain hanger of claim 1 wherein the coating is resistant to ultraviolet light.

5. The shower curtain hanger of claim 1 wherein both the left magnetically responsive material and the right magnetically responsive material are magnets.

6. The shower curtain hanger of claim 5 wherein the magnets are neodymium magnets.

7. The shower curtain hanger of claim 1 wherein both the right curved body frame with an internal curvature and the left curved body frame with an internal curvature have at least one textured rubberized coating.

8. A method of hanging a shower curtain, utilizing a hanger comprising: a left curved body comprising a left curved body frame, a left distal end, a grooved indentation at said distal end, and a left magnetically responsive material, wherein said left magnetically responsive material is embedded within said left curved body frame underneath said grooved indentation at said left distal end; a right curved body comprising a right curved body frame, a right distal end, a protrusion at said distal end, and a right magnetically responsive material, wherein said magnetically responsive material is located at said protrusion at said right distal end; a coating that encompasses said right curved body frame and said left curved body frame; and, a hinge unit.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein both the left curved body and the right curved body are made of high-grade ABS plastic.

10. The method of claim 8 wherein both the left curved body and the right curved body are made of high-grade silicone.

11. The method of claim 8 wherein the coating is resistant to ultraviolet light.

12. The method of claim 8 wherein both the left magnetically responsive material and the right magnetically responsive material are magnets.

13. The method of claim 8 wherein both magnets are neodymium.

14. The method of claim 8 wherein both the right curved body frame with an internal curvature and the left curved body frame with an internal curvature have at least one textured rubberized coating.

15. A shower curtain hanger comprising: a left curved body comprising a left curved body frame, a left distal end, a grooved indentation at said distal end, and a left magnetically responsive material, wherein said left magnetically responsive material is embedded within said left curved body frame underneath said grooved indentation at said left distal end; a right curved body comprising a right curved body frame, a right distal end, a protrusion at said distal end, and a right magnetically responsive material, wherein said right magnetically responsive material is located at said protrusion at said right distal end; and, a coating that encompasses said right curved body frame and said left curved body frame.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] So that the manner in which the above-recited features of the present invention is understood in detail, a more particular description of the invention, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to embodiments, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is to be noted, however, that the appended drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, for the invention may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

[0007] FIG. 1 shows an overhead view of the magnetic shower curtain hanger in its opened state.

[0008] FIG. 2 shows a forward-overhead-left perspective view of the magnetic shower curtain hanger in its opened state.

[0009] FIG. 3 shows an underside-right perspective view of the magnetic shower curtain hanger in its opened state.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention comprises a magnetic shower curtain system. The magnetic shower curtain hanger system is engineered to enhance user convenience by simplifying the attachment and removal of shower curtains. The primary innovation lies in the integration of a magnetic snap-apart mechanism within various hanger structures, eliminating the need for traditional hooks or clasps.

[0011] A shower curtain hanger comprising: [0012] a left curved body comprising a left curved body frame with an internal curvature, a left distal end, a grooved indentation at said distal end, and a left magnet, wherein said left magnet is embedded within said left curved body frame underneath said grooved indentation at said left distal end; [0013] a right curved body comprising a right curved body frame with an internal curvature, a right distal end, a protrusion at said distal end, and a right magnet, wherein said right magnet is located at said protrusion at said right distal end; a coating that encompasses said right curved body frame and said left curved body frame; [0014] and, a hinge unit.

[0015] The shower curtain hanger of [0011], wherein both the left curved body and the right curved body are made of high-grade ABS plastic.

[0016] The shower curtain hanger of [0011] wherein both the left curved body and the right curved body are made of high-grade silicone.

[0017] The shower curtain hanger of [0011] wherein the coating is resistant to ultraviolet light.

[0018] The shower curtain hanger of [0011] wherein both the left magnet and the right magnet are neodymium magnets.

[0019] The shower curtain hanger of [0011] wherein both the right curved body frame with an internal curvature and the left curved body frame with an internal curvature have at least one textured rubberized coating.

[0020] A method of hanging a shower curtain, utilizing a hanger comprising: [0021] a left curved body comprising a left curved body frame with an internal curvature, a left distal end, a grooved indentation at said distal end, and a left magnet, wherein said left magnet is embedded within said left curved body frame underneath said grooved indentation at said left distal end; [0022] a right curved body comprising a right curved body frame with an internal curvature, a right distal end, a protrusion at said distal end, and a right magnet, wherein said right magnet is located at said protrusion at said right distal end; a coating that encompasses said right curved body frame and said left curved body frame; and, [0023] a hinge unit.

[0024] The method of [0017] wherein both the left curved body and the right curved body are made of high-grade ABS plastic.

[0025] The method of [0017] wherein both the left curved body and the right curved body are made of high-grade silicone.

[0026] The method of [0017] wherein the coating is resistant to ultraviolet light.

[0027] The method of [0017] wherein both the magnet and the right magnet are neodymium magnets.

[0028] The method of [0017] wherein both the right curved body frame with an internal curvature and the left curved body frame with an internal curvature have at least one textured rubberized coating.

[0029] A shower curtain hanger comprising: [0030] a left curved body comprising a left curved body frame, a left distal end, a grooved indentation at said distal end, and a left magnetically responsive material, wherein said left magnetically responsive material is embedded within said left curved body frame underneath said grooved indentation at said left distal end; [0031] a right curved body comprising a right curved body frame, a right distal end, a protrusion at said distal end, and a right magnetically responsive material, wherein said right magnetically responsive material is located at said protrusion at said right distal end; and, [0032] a coating that encompasses said right curved body frame and said left curved body frame.

[0033] Reference is made to FIGS. 1-3. A common numbering system is used for all figures. A comprehensive list of the structures identified in the figures is provided below.

[0034] Item 101 designates the grooved indentation at the distal extremity of Item 103, which is the left curved body. In a preferred embodiment, a neodymium magnet is embedded within the left curved body at 101.

[0035] Item 102 designates the protrusion at the distal extremity of Item 104, which is the right curved body. In a preferred embodiment, a neodymium magnet is embedded within the right curved body at 102.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the Item 102, the protrusion at the distal extremity of Item 104, fits within 101, the grooved indentation at the distal extremity of Item 103. This provides a physical clasp and secures the right curved body and the left curved body in place. In this arrangement, the neodymium magnets that are located at Items 101 and 102 are within proximity to one another such that they produce a magnetic force which helps secure the two bodies in place. However, in its envisioned that a user can open this physical clasp using both hands.

[0037] Item 105 designates the hinge pivot mechanism. When the two curved bodies (103 and 104) are released from the magnetic force formed by the connection of the neodymium magnets at Items 101 and 102, the two sides can swing around the pivot mechanism. This enables placement of the magnetic shower curtain hanger around a shower rod.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment, each hanger comprises a left curved body and a right curve, which are both made from molded ABS plastic, ensuring durability and resistance to moisture. Embedded within the opposing ends of the circular body (i.e., 101 and 102) are neodymium magnets, which are known for their strong magnetic properties. These magnets facilitate the snap-apart feature, allowing the hanger to securely attach to or detach from a shower curtain rod with minimal effort.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, the present invention has the following measurements. When closed, the outer diameter's width is approximately 2 inches while the outer diameter's height is approximately 2 inches. The thickness of each curved body is approximately inch.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, each neodymium magnet measures approximately 0.175 inches in diameter and 0.059 inches in thickness.

[0041] These dimensions may vary slightly based on manufacturing needs.

[0042] The neodymium magnets are strategically placed within recessed cavities at either end of the circular body. One small magnet is embedded in the left side while the right side two magnets are embedded; one on top of the other. In order to prevent corrosion and ensure longevity they can be coated with a rust resistant composite such as ABS plastic, nickel, zinc, epoxy, etc.

[0043] The magnetic force is calibrated and positioned to provide a secure hold on standard shower curtain rods while allowing easy detachment when necessary. Users can simply apply slight outward force to snap the two sides of the hangers apart, facilitating quick removal of the shower curtain for cleaning or replacement.

[0044] Integrated within the circular body can be a curtain retention system designed to prevent lateral movement of the shower curtain along the rod. This system utilizes frictional surfaces achieved through textured rubberized coatings on the internal perimeter of the hanger. These surfaces create sufficient resistance to inhibit curtain slippage while maintaining smooth movement when intentional adjustments are made. The frictional surfaces may have a thickness of approximately 0.1 inches to ensure effective retention without compromising the hanger's flexibility.

[0045] In another embodiment, the shower curtain hanger is formed from a unibody structure made from a flexible material such as silicone. This flexible design allows the hanger to pivot and snap onto the rod without requiring a separate pin or fastening mechanism at the top. The unibody structure simplifies manufacturing and provides a sleek aesthetic, while the magnetic coupling at the bottom still ensures secure attachment to the rod. The unibody hanger has an outer diameter of approximately 2.5 inches to provide adequate flexibility and strength.

[0046] The body is preferably manufactured using high-grade ABS plastic, chosen for its strength, durability, and resistance to water and mold. The neodymium magnets are encased within the plastic to protect them from moisture and prevent direct contact with the shower environment. Additionally, a UV-resistant coating may be applied to the hanger to prevent degradation from prolonged exposure to water and cleaning agents. Alternative materials such as wood, metal, or silicone may be used depending on aesthetic and functional requirements. The hanger can take on an oval, circular, rectangular or any other geometric form that suits the user's needs. The manufacturing process involves molding the ABS plastic into the desired shape, embedding the magnets during the molding process, and applying necessary coatings for enhanced durability. Alternatively, the hanger may be 3-D printed whereas the magnets are embedded separately using an adhesive.

[0047] The present invention offers the following advantages.

[0048] Ease of Use: The magnetic snap-apart mechanism allows for quick and effortless removal and reattachment of the shower curtain.

[0049] Durability: Materials selected for the hanger ensure long-term resistance to moisture, mold, and mechanical wear.

[0050] Stability: The integrated curtain retention system prevents lateral movement, maintaining the curtain's position and appearance.

[0051] Versatility: Multiple embodiments cater to different user preferences and varying shower rod sizes.

[0052] Aesthetic Appeal: The streamlined design eliminates bulky hooks, offering a sleek and modern look suitable for various bathroom dcors.

[0053] Simplified Manufacturing: The unibody structure and modular segments simplify the manufacturing process, reducing production costs and enhancing product reliability.

[0054] While several possible embodiments of the invention have been described above and illustrated in some cases, it should be interpreted and understood as to have been presented only by way of illustration and example, but not by limitation. Thus, the breadth and scope of a preferred embodiment should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments.

[0055] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention. While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above described embodiment, method, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope of the invention. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary, with the true scope of the invention being indicated by the claims.