Patent Publication Number: US-11659928-B2

Title: Apron front sink panel assembly

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION 
     The present application claims the benefit of, and priority to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/589,967 (now U.S. Pat. No. 11,324,318), filed Oct. 1, 2019, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/740,995, filed Oct. 4, 2018, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The present disclosure relates generally to the field of sinks. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an apron front sink panel that is configured to be installed on a front surface of a cabinet having a sink. 
     SUMMARY 
     At least one embodiment of this application is related to a panel assembly for providing an apron-front aesthetic for a sink installed in a cabinet. The panel assembly includes a mounting body configured for coupling to a cabinet. The panel assembly also includes a cover panel coupled to the mounting body to provide an apron-front aesthetic for a sink coupled to the cabinet. 
     At least one embodiment of this application is related to a sink and cabinet assembly, the assembly including a cabinet. The assembly also includes a sink coupled to the cabinet, the sink comprising a basin. The assembly further includes a countertop coupled to the cabinet. The assembly even further includes a decorative panel assembly coupled to a front portion of the cabinet at a location forward of the basin and below the countertop such that at least a portion of the cabinet is between the sink and the decorative panel assembly. The decorative panel assembly includes a mounting structure coupled to the front of the cabinet and a cover panel coupled to the mounting structure. 
     At least one embodiment of this application is related to a method of providing an apron-front sink aesthetic to a non-apron-front sink. The method includes the steps of removing a panel from a front portion of a cabinet, the cabinet configured to have a sink coupled thereto; coupling a mounting body to the cabinet at the location where the panel has been removed; and coupling a decorative panel to the mounting body; wherein the decorative panel and mounting body together form a faux apron for a sink coupled to the cabinet. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective view of a panel assembly coupled to a cabinet assembly, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  2    is a perspective view of a panel assembly coupled to the cabinet assembly, according to another embodiment. 
         FIG.  3 A  is a perspective view of a first mounting body of the panel assembly shown in  FIG.  1   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  3 B  is a rear view of the first mounting body shown in  FIG.  3 A . 
         FIG.  4    is a perspective view of a cover panel of the panel assembly shown in  FIG.  1   , according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIGS.  5 - 10    illustrate the installation process of the panel assembly of  FIG.  1   . 
         FIG.  11    is the perspective view of the panel assembly of  FIG.  2   . 
         FIG.  12    is a perspective view of a second mounting body for use with the panel assembly shown in  FIG.  2   . 
         FIG.  13    is a perspective view of the rear of the end cap of  FIG.  12   . 
         FIG.  14    is a perspective view of the panel assembly shown in  FIG.  2    coupled to a sink, according to another embodiment. 
         FIG.  15    is a perspective view of the panel assembly shown in  FIG.  2    coupled to a sink, according to yet another embodiment. 
         FIG.  16    is a perspective view of the panel assembly shown in  FIG.  2    coupled to a sink, according to even yet another embodiment. 
         FIG.  17 A  illustrates an enlarged schematic of deep-textured stainless steel. 
         FIG.  17 B  illustrates an enlarged cross-sectional view of the deep-textured stainless steel of  FIG.  17 A . 
         FIG.  17 C  illustrates a comparison of the scratch resistance of a non-textured stainless steel surface compared to a deep-textured stainless steel surface. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Prior to turning to the FIGURES, which illustrate the one or more exemplary embodiments in detail, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details or methodology set forth in the description or illustrated in the figures. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of description only and should not be regarded as limiting. 
     Referring generally to the FIGURES, a faux apron front sink panel assembly (e.g., panel assembly) having an interchangeable front panel (e.g., cover panel, end cap, etc.) is shown according to various exemplary embodiments. The panel assembly can be installed in various environments, including but not limited to kitchens and bathrooms. A front panel of the panel assembly is configured to couple to a mounting panel on a mounting surface of a portion of a cabinet that is located below a sink. The panel assembly beneficially provides a user with the flexibility to customize the aesthetic of the sink area, such as to match the aesthetic of a kitchen environment (e.g., a kitchen theme), by interchanging the front panel without the need for installing an entire new sink, which can be expensive and time consuming. By way of example, the front panel can be made of a deep-textured stainless steel, which beneficially may provide an appealing aesthetic, while also providing a scratch-resistant surface finish for improved durability and longevity. 
     Referring generally to  FIG.  1   , a perspective view of a panel assembly (e.g., decorative panel assembly, etc.)  100  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The panel assembly  100  is configured to be mounted to a cabinet assembly  140 , the cabinet assembly  140  including a front surface  142  and a countertop  150  having a top surface  152 . The countertop  150  is coupled to the cabinet assembly  140  and configured to receive or operatively couple to a sink  160  having a basin.  FIG.  1    shows the sink  160  as an undermount style, double bowl sink. However, the panel assembly  100  may be operably coupled proximate one or more other types of sinks, including drop-in style sinks, single bowl sinks, single basin sinks, and a variety of similar sinks commonly found in a kitchen or bathroom. The panel assembly  100  is configured to provide an apron-front aesthetic to the sink  160  installed in the cabinet. In some embodiments, the panel assembly  100  is configured to couple to a front portion of the cabinet assembly  140  at a location forward of a sink basin (e.g., the basin of the sink  160 ) and below the countertop  150  such that at least a portion of the cabinet assembly  140  is between the sink  160  and the panel assembly  100 . 
     The countertop further includes a lip  154  extending laterally away from the sink  160  and disposed above the front surface  142  of the cabinet assembly  140 . The lip  154  includes a front lip surface  156 . The front lip surface  156  is contiguous with the top surface  152 . The front lip surface  156  may be generally parallel to the front surface  142 . The front surface  142  of the cabinet assembly  140  is shown to further include two doors  144  proximate the front surface  142 . However, it should be appreciated that the cabinet assembly  140  may include any number of doors  144  (e.g., one, two, etc.) or drawers. In some embodiments, the cabinet assembly  140  does not include any doors or drawers. The panel assembly  100  is approximately the same width as the cabinet assembly  140 . In some embodiments, the panel assembly  100  is slightly wider than the cabinet assembly  140  such that the panel assembly  100  has an overhang. As shown in  FIG.  1   , the panel assembly  100  is coupled proximate the front surface  142 , above the doors  144  and underneath the lip  154 . In some embodiments, the panel assembly  100  is coupled directly to the sink  160 . 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, the panel assembly  100  includes a first mounting body  102  and a generally planar cover panel  104 . The illustrated panel assembly  100  may have a substantially vertical orientation and a substantially rectangular cross section when installed. In some embodiments, the panel assembly  100  has curved sides at an angle relative to the front surface  142 . The first mounting body  102  is configured for coupling (e.g., to be coupled, to be directly coupled, etc.) to the cabinet assembly  140  for structural support. The cover panel  104  is configured to be coupled to the first mounting body  102  to provide an apron-front aesthetic for the sink  160  coupled to the cabinet assembly  140 . The cover panel is further configured to be a forward facing aesthetic panel, such that at least a portion of the cover panel  104  is visible when viewed from the front. The cover panel  104  is detachably coupled to (e.g., coupled within) the first mounting body  102  such that the aesthetics of the panel assembly  100  may be customized by swapping out the cover panel  104  for another cover panel with a different aesthetic (e.g., detaching the cover panel  104  and attaching a similar cover panel). That is, the panel assembly  100  is configured such that the first mounting body  102  can be mounted to the cabinet assembly  140 , and a user may selectively change the cover panel  104  to provide a different aesthetic look. In this way, the panel assembly  100  provides a customizable and more cost efficient means of obtaining a different aesthetic look around a sink (e.g., the apron of the sink) without actually replacing the entire sink. Specifically,  FIG.  1    illustrates the panel assembly  100  having a first embodiment of the cover panel  104 , where the cover panel  104  is configured to be received within an opening of the first mounting body  102  upon installation. 
     Turning to  FIG.  2   , a panel assembly (e.g., decorative panel assembly)  200  is shown according to another embodiment. The panel assembly  200  includes a second mounting body (e.g., mounting structure)  202  and an end cap (e.g., decorative panel)  204 . The panel assembly  200  is similar to the panel assembly  100 . A difference between the panel assembly  100  and the panel assembly  200  is that the end cap  204  is configured to be a forward facing aesthetic end cap, such that at least a portion of the end cap  204  is visible when viewed from the front. The end cap  204  is detachably (e.g., removably) coupled to (e.g., coupled around) the second mounting body  202  such that the aesthetics of the panel assembly  200  may be customized by swapping out the end cap  204  for another end cap with a different aesthetic (e.g., detaching the end cap  204  and attaching a similar end cap). That is, the panel assembly  200  is configured such that the second mounting body  202  can be mounted to the cabinet assembly  140 , and a user may selectively change the end cap  204  to provide a different aesthetic look. The end cap  204  of the panel assembly  200  receives the second mounting body  202 . As a consequence of the end cap  204  receiving the second mounting body  202 , the second mounting body  202  is hidden from view when the panel assembly  200  is viewed from the front. The panel assembly  200  is described in further detail herein ( FIGS.  11 - 16   ). 
     Referring to  FIGS.  3 A and  3 B , the first mounting body  102  (e.g., mounting panel, mounting frame, receiving body, mounting structure, etc.) is shown in greater detail. The first mounting body  102  includes a base wall having a first front  302  and a first back  304 , which are parallel to one another. The first back  304  is planar and is configured to couple proximate to the front surface  142  of the cabinet assembly  140 . The first mounting body  102  further includes an opening  306  that is configured to receive the cover panel  104  therein. When fully assembled, the cover panel  104  is located within the opening. The opening  306  is defined by the first front  302 , a first top  308  extending laterally away from the first front  302  and generally away from the cabinet assembly  140 , a first bottom  310  opposite the first top  308  and extending laterally away from the first front  304  and generally away from the cabinet assembly  140 , and two first sides  312 . The first top  308  may have a different aesthetic appeal (e.g., finish, color, etc.) than either the first sides  312  or the first front  302 . For example, the first top  308  may match a top flange of the sink  160 . In some embodiments, the first top  308  may have a first finish, the first front  302  and the first sides  312  may have a second finish different from the first finish, and the top flange of the sink  160  may have a third finish which matches the first finish. In other embodiments, the third finish and the first finish may be different. The first top  308  and the first bottom  310  of the illustrated first mounting body  102  may be parallel to one another and perpendicular to each of the two first sides  312 , which are parallel to one another. Thus, the perimeter of the opening  306  may have a substantially rectangular cross section when viewed from the front. In some embodiments, however, the cross-section of the first opening  306  may be any one of a variety of regular or irregular polygons, such as a crescent, trapezoid, ellipse, rhombus, or similar shapes. The first front  302  is shown to include at least one throughgoing counterbore  320  (e.g., the counterbore  320  extends from the first front  302  to the first back  304 ). Each counterbore  320  is configured to receive a rearward extending fastener, which couples the first mounting body  102  to the cabinet assembly  140 . That is, when installed, the first back  304  of the first mounting body  102  will couple proximate to the front surface  142 . In some embodiments, the first mounting body  102  may include any number of counterbores  320  that are configured to receive fasteners. Similarly, it should be appreciated that any number or type of fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) may be used to couple the first mounting body  102  to the cabinet assembly  140 . In addition, in the event that the user instead drills their own holes, it should be appreciated that the first mounting body  102  may not include any counterbores  320  for receiving fasteners. The first bottom  310  is shown to also include at least one bottom aperture  325  configured to receive a fastener to secure the cover panel  104  to the first mounting body  102 . For example, the first mounting body  102  of  FIG.  3 B  is shown to include three bottom apertures  325 , each of which is configured to receive one fastener. Specifically, the first mounting body  102  is configured to receive at least one fastener extending through the first bottom  310  and into the cover panel  104  to couple the cover panel  104  to the first mounting body  102 . In some embodiments, the cover panel  104  may instead be press fit, snapped, latched, slid, nailed, or glued to/into/within the first mounting body  102  such that the bottom apertures  325  may not be needed. The first mounting body  102  can be made of, for example, a metal, such as sheet metal or cast. However, the first mounting body  102  may also be made of, for example, aluminum, wood, stone, glass, or ceramic, as well as any combination thereof and/or any other suitable material, which can be replaced or interchanged to tailor the aesthetics of the panel assembly  100 . In some embodiments, the first mounting body  102  may be formed of a material different from the cover panel  104  to achieve a desirable aesthetic appearance. 
     Referring to  FIG.  4   , the cover panel  104  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The cover panel  104  is shown to include a cover panel front  402 , a cover panel back  404  opposite the cover panel front  402 , a cover panel top  408 , a cover panel bottom  410 , and two cover panel sides  412  disposed on opposite ends of the cover panel  104 . The cover panel  104  is configured to be located in (e.g., received entirely within, coupled to, etc.) the first opening  306  of the first mounting body  102  upon installation. That is, the cover panel  104  may have a rectangular cross-section that is proportionally slightly smaller than the opening  306  and matches the cross-section of the first mounting body  102  such that there are no gaps between the first walls of the first mounting body  102  and the cover panel walls of the cover panel  104  (e.g., the first top  308  interfaces with the cover panel top  408  such that there is no space between the first top  308  and the cover panel top  408 , etc.). In some embodiments, the cross-section of the cover panel  104  is not rectangular, but of another regular or irregular polygon shape. When the panel assembly  100  is installed to the cabinet assembly  140 , the cover panel front  402  may be configured to be parallel to the front surface  142 . The cover panel front  402  may be further configured to be visible to a user when the cover panel  104  is installed into the opening  306  of the first mounting body  102 . The cover panel  104  may be made of, for example, a deep-textured stainless steel, so as to beneficially provide a scratch resistant property. However, the cover panel  104  may also be made of, for example, aluminum, wood, stone, glass, or ceramic, as well as any combination thereof and/or any other suitable material, which can be replaced or interchanged to tailor the aesthetics of the panel assembly  100 . The cover panel  104  may be formed of a material different from the first mounting body  102 . For example, the first mounting body  102  may be formed of a first material, such as stainless steel, and the cover panel  104  may be formed of a second material different from the first material, such as wood. The cover panel  104 , or the cover panel front  402 , may further have an aesthetically pleasing finish (e.g., the cover panel  104  includes a decorative pattern). In some embodiments, the cover panel  104  may have the same finish as the sink  160  such that the cover panel  104  and the sink  160  are the same color. In some embodiments, the cover panel  104  has a metallic finish. In some embodiments, the cover panel has a textured surface finish. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill, the cover panel  104  may be formed of plastic, but may be given a metallic or reflective finish through plastic chrome plating, vacuum metalizing, or chrome spray paint. When installed, the cover panel back  404  of the cover panel  104  may face and optionally couple to the first front  302  of the first mounting body  102 . In some embodiments, the cover panel bottom  410  is configured to interface with an upwardly extending fastener, coupling the cover panel  104  to the first mounting body  102  upon installation. In other embodiments, the cover panel  104  includes latches, pins, adhesive, and/or snaps to help couple the cover panel  104  to the first mounting body  102 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  5 - 10   , the installation process of providing an apron-front sink aesthetic to the cabinet assembly  140 . In some embodiments, this is the installation process of providing an apron-front sink aesthetic to a non-apron-front sink installed in the cabinet assembly  140 . Referring specifically to  FIG.  5   , the cabinet assembly  140  is shown prior to the installation of the panel assembly  100 . Prior to the installation of the panel assembly  100 , the cabinet assembly  140  may include a planar body, shown as a front cabinet panel  505  (e.g., a false drawer front). The front cabinet panel  505  may behave (e.g., appear, etc.) as a false drawer. The front cabinet panel  505  may have a generally rectangular cross-section. The front cabinet panel  505  may have a thickness approximately the same as a thickness of the doors  144 . The front cabinet panel  505  may be disposed above the doors  144  and below the lip  154 . In some embodiments, a front surface of the front cabinet panel  505  comprises a portion of the front surface  142  of the cabinet assembly  140 . Referring now to  FIG.  6   , removing a panel (e.g., the front cabinet panel  505 ) from the front of the cabinet assembly  140  is shown. Removing the panel (e.g., the front cabinet panel  505 ) from the front of the cabinet assembly  140  may be performed after the sink  160  and the countertop  150  are installed (e.g., coupled) to the cabinet assembly  140 . The front cabinet panel  505  removed from the cabinet assembly  140  may expose a mounting surface  510 . The mounting surface  510  is disposed behind the front cabinet panel  505  and behind the doors  144 . The mounting surface  510  may be generally parallel to the front surface  142 . In some embodiments, the cabinet assembly  140  does not include the front cabinet panel  505 . Accordingly, the illustrated step of removing the front cabinet panel  505  is optional. In the event that the cabinet assembly  140  does not include the front cabinet panel  505 , or the user does not wish to remove the front cabinet panel  505  (e.g., to instead install the panel assembly  100  over it), the panel assembly  100  may be coupled to an area defined as below the lip  154  and above the doors  144 . In some embodiments, the panel assembly  100  may be sized (e.g., customized, manufactured, etc.) to mount to a variety of cabinet assemblies. 
     Referring now to  FIG.  7   , positioning the first mounting body  102  at the location where the panel (e.g., the front cabinet panel  505 , the false drawer, etc.) was removed is shown. The first mounting body  102  is configured to couple to a portion of the cabinet assembly  140  where a false drawer would normally be located. In some embodiments, the first mounting body  102  is positioned at a front of the cabinet assembly  140 . In some embodiments, the first mounting body  102  is positioned on the mounting surface  510 . The first mounting body  102  may be positioned such that the first back  304  abuts the mounting surface  510 , the first top  308  is proximate the lip  154 , and the first bottom  310  is proximate a top door surface  515  of the doors  144 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  8   , coupling the first mounting body  102  to the cabinet assembly  140  at the location where the panel (e.g., the front cabinet panel  505 , the false drawer front, etc.) has been removed is shown. Coupling the first mounting body  102  to the cabinet assembly  140  may include using at least one fastener. In some embodiments, the first mounting body  102  is coupled to the front of the cabinet assembly  140 . The first mounting body  102  may be coupled to the cabinet assembly  140  at a location where a false drawer front (e.g., the front cabinet panel  505 ) has been removed from the cabinet assembly  140 . More specifically, the first mounting body  102  may be coupled to the mounting surface  510 . The first mounting body  102  may be secured by way of rearward extending fasteners (e.g., screws). For example, the fasteners are configured to extend through the counterbores  320  and into the cabinet assembly  140 . 
     Referring now to  FIG.  9   , coupling a decorative panel (e.g., the cover panel  104 ) to the first mounting body  102  is shown. Coupling the decorative panel (e.g., the cover panel  104 ) to the first mounting body  102  may include inserting at least a portion of the decorative panel (e.g., the cover panel  104 ) into the first mounting body  102  and inserting a fastener through the first mounting body  102  to engage the cover panel decorative panel and secure the decorative panel in place relative to the first mounting body  102 . In some embodiments, the cover panel  104  is coupled to and received entirely within the first opening  306  of the first mounting body  102 . In some embodiments, the cover panel  104  is generally planar such that the cover panel front  402  is parallel to the first front  302 . The cover panel  104  may be secured to the first mounting body  102  with at least one fastener, the fastener configured to extend through a portion of the first mounting body  102  to engage the cover panel  104  so as to secure the cover panel  104  in place with respect to the first mounting body  102 . In some embodiments, vertically extending fasteners may be installed, extending through the bottom apertures  325  in the first bottom  310  and into the cover panel bottom  410  of the cover panel  104  to couple the cover panel  104  to the first mounting body  102 . In some embodiments, the cover panel  104  is removably received within the opening  306  of the first mounting body  102  such that the cover panel  104  may be removed and replaced by a different cover panel having a different aesthetic. Of course, other approaches to securing the cover panel  104  to the first mounting body  102  may be used according to other exemplary embodiments (e.g., shims, horizontally-oriented fasteners, adhesives, magnets, etc.). 
     Referring now to  FIG.  10   , as shown, once installed, the cover panel front  402  is parallel to the front surface  142  of the cabinet assembly  140  and may be visible to a user. 
     Turning now to  FIG.  11   , the panel assembly  200  is shown. The panel assembly  200  is configured to provide an apron-front aesthetic to the sink installed in the cabinet assembly  140 . In some embodiments, the panel assembly  200  is configured to couple to a front portion of the cabinet assembly  140  at a location forward of a sink basin (e.g., the basin of the sink  160 ) and below the countertop  150  such that at least a portion of the cabinet is between the sink  160  and the panel assembly  200 . The panel assembly  200  includes a second mounting body  202  and an end cap  204 . The illustrated panel assembly  200  may have a substantially vertical orientation and a substantially rectangular cross section when installed. In some embodiments, the panel assembly  200  has curved sides at an angle relative to the front surface  142 . The second mounting body  202  is configured to be a mounting panel, such that the second mounting body  202  is configured to coupling (e.g., is coupled, is directly coupled) to the cabinet assembly  140  for structural support. The end cap  204  is configured to be coupled to the second mounting body  202  to provide an apron-front aesthetic for the sink  160  coupled to the cabinet assembly  140 . The end cap  204  is further configured to be a forward facing aesthetic end cap, such that the end cap  204  visible when viewed from the front. The end cap  204  is detachably coupled to the second mounting body  202  such that the aesthetics of the panel assembly  200  can be customized by swapping out the end cap  204  for another end cap with a different aesthetic (e.g., detaching the end cap  204  and attaching a similar end cap). That is, the panel assembly  200  is configured such that the second mounting body  202  can be mounted to the cabinet assembly  140 , and a user may selectively change the end cap  204  to provide a different aesthetic look. In this way, the panel assembly  200  provides a customizable and more cost efficient means of obtaining a different aesthetic look around a sink (e.g., the apron of the sink) without actually replacing the entire sink. 
     Specifically,  FIG.  11    illustrates the panel assembly  200  having a first embodiment of the end cap  204 , the end cap  204  formed of brushed nickel. The end cap  204  may be manufactured from any variety of metals, such as stainless steel (e.g., 22 gauge 304 stainless steel, etc.), brass, copper, iron, titanium, and similar metals. 
     Referring to  FIG.  12   , the second mounting body  202  (e.g., mounting panel, mounting plate, fixture panel, fixture, mounting structure, etc.) is shown. The second mounting body  202  is similar to the first mounting body  102 . A difference between the two is that the second mounting body  202  is, when the panel assembly  200  is fully assembled, configured to be located within the end cap  204 . The second mounting body  202  may include a counterbore  1220  configured to receive a fastener to couple the second mounting body  202  to the front of the cabinet assembly  140 . In some embodiments, the second mounting body  202  is coupled at the location where a false drawer would be located. In other embodiments, the second mounting body  202  is located at the location where the panel (e.g., the front cabinet panel  505 ) was removed. In some embodiments, the second mounting body  202  is configured for coupling to the mounting surface  510 . The second mounting body  202  includes a base wall having a second front  1202  and a second back  1204 , which are parallel to one another. The second back  1204  is planar and is configured to couple proximate to the front surface  142  of the cabinet assembly  140 . The second mounting body  202  further includes a second top  1208 , a second bottom  1210 , and two second sides  1212 . The second top  1208  and the second bottom  1210  may be parallel to one another and perpendicular to each of the two second sides  1212 , which are parallel to one another. Thus, the perimeter of the second mounting body  202  may have a substantially rectangular cross section when viewed from the front. In some embodiments, however, the cross-section of the second mounting body  202  may be any one of a variety of regular or irregular polygons, such as a crescent, trapezoid, ellipse, rhombus, and similar shapes. The second front  1202  is shown to include at least one throughgoing counterbore  1220  (e.g., the counterbore  1220  extends from the second front  1202  to the second back  1204 ). Each counterbore  1220  is configured to receive a rearward extending fastener, which couples the second mounting body  202  to the cabinet assembly  140 . That is, when installed, the second back  1204  of the second mounting body  202  will couple to the mounting surface  510 . In some embodiments, the second mounting body  202  may include any number of counterbores  1220  that are configured to receive fasteners. Similarly, it should be appreciated that any number or type of fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws, etc.) may be used to couple the second mounting body  202  to the cabinet assembly  140 . In addition, in the event that the user instead drills their own holes, it should be appreciated that the second mounting body  202  may not include any counterbores  1220  for receiving fasteners. The second mounting body  202  can be made of, for example, a metal, such as sheet metal or cast. 
     Referring to  FIG.  13   , a perspective rear view of the end cap  204  is shown. The end cap  204  includes an end cap front  1302  and an end cap back  1304  substantially parallel to and opposite of the end cap front  1302 . The end cap  204  further includes an opening  1306  that is configured to receive the second mounting body  202  therein. Coupling the end cap  204  to the second mounting body  202  may include inserting at least a portion of the second mounting body  202  into the end cap  204  and inserting a fastener through the end cap  204  to engage the second mounting body  202  and secure the end cap  204  in place with respect to the second mounting body  202 . The opening  1306  is defined by the end cap back  1304 , an end cap top  1308 , an end cap bottom  1310 , and two end cap sides  1312 . The end cap top  1308  and the end cap bottom  1310  of the illustrated end cap  204  may be parallel to one another and perpendicular to each of the two end cap sides  1312 , which are parallel to one another. Thus, the perimeter of the opening  1306  may have a substantially rectangular cross section when viewed from the front. In some embodiments, however, the cross-section of the opening  1306  may be any one of a variety of regular or irregular polygons, such as a crescent, trapezoid, ellipse, rhombus, and similar shapes. The end cap bottom  1310  is shown to include at least one bottom aperture  1325  configured to receive a fastener to secure the end cap  204  to the second mounting body  202 . For example, the end cap  204  of  FIG.  13    is shown to include three bottom apertures  1325 , each of which is configured to receive one fastener. Specifically, the end cap  204  is configured to receive at least one fastener extending through the end cap bottom  1310  and interface with second mounting body  202  to couple the end cap  204  to the second mounting body  202 . In some embodiments, the end cap  204  may instead be press fit, snapped, latched, slid, nailed, or glued onto the second mounting body  202  such that the bottom apertures  1325  may not be needed. The end cap  204  can be made of, for example, a metal, such as sheet metal or cast (or may be made of other materials according to other exemplary embodiments). 
     The end cap  204  is configured to receive the second mounting body  202  such that the second mounting body  202  is received within the end cap  204 . That is, the second mounting body  202  may have a rectangular cross-section that is proportionally slightly smaller than the opening  1306  and matches the cross-section of the end cap  204  such that there are no gaps between the second walls of the second mounting body  202  and the end cap walls of the end cap  204  (e.g., the second top  1208  interfaces with the end cap top  1308  such that there is no space between the second top  1208  and the end cap top  1308 , etc.). In some embodiments, the cross-section of the second mounting body  202  is not rectangular, but of another regular or irregular polygon shape. When the panel assembly  200  is installed to the cabinet assembly  140 , the end cap front  1302  may be configured to be parallel to the front surface  142 . In some embodiments, such as depending on the cabinet and/or sink assembly design, the end cap top  1308  and/or the end cap sides  1312  may also be visible to a user (e.g., when viewed from the top and/or sides) when installed. The end cap top  1308  may have a different aesthetic appeal (e.g., finish, color, etc.) than either the end cap sides  1312  or the end cap front  1302 . For example, as seen in  FIG.  16   , the end cap top  1308  may match a top flange of the sink  160 . In some embodiments, the end cap top  1308  may have a first finish, the end cap front  1302  and the end cap sides  1312  may have a second finish different from the first finish, and the top flange of the sink  160  may have a third finish which matches the first finish. In other embodiments, the third finish and the first finish may be different. In some embodiments, the panel assembly  200  is integrally manufactured to the sink The end cap front  1302  may be further configured to be visible to a user when the end cap  204  is installed onto and around the second mounting body  202 . The end cap front  1302  may be flush with (e.g., in the same plane as) the front lip surface  156 . When installed, the end cap back  1304  of the end cap  204  may face and optionally couple to the second front  1202  of the second mounting body  202 . In some embodiments, the second bottom  1210  is configured to interface with an upwardly extending fastener, coupling the end cap  204  to the second mounting body  202  upon installation. In other embodiments, the second mounting body  202  includes latches, pins, adhesive, and/or snaps to help couple the end cap  204  to the second mounting body  202 . 
     The end cap  204  may be made of, for example, a deep-textured stainless steel, so as to beneficially provide a scratch resistant property. However, the end cap  204  may also be made of, for example, aluminum, wood, stone, glass, or ceramic, as well as any combination thereof and/or any other suitable material, which can be replaced or interchanged to tailor the aesthetics of the panel assembly  200 . The end cap  204  may be formed of a material different from the second mounting body  202 . For example, the second mounting body  202  may be formed of a first material, such as stainless steel, and the end cap  204  may be formed of a second material different from the first material, such as wood. The end cap  204  may further have an aesthetically pleasing finish (e.g., the end cap  204  includes a decorative pattern). In some embodiments, the end cap  204  may have the same finish as the sink  160  such that the end cap  204  and the sink  160  are the same color. In some embodiments, the end cap  204  has a metallic finish. In some embodiments, the end cap  204  has a textured surface finish. As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill, the end cap  204  may be formed of plastic, but may be given a metallic or reflective finish through plastic chrome plating, vacuum metalizing, or chrome spray paint. 
     Turning to  FIG.  14   , another embodiment of the panel assembly  200  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The panel assembly  200  of  FIG.  14    is coupled to the front of a non-front-apron front sink, such as the sink  160 , to provide an apron-front sink aesthetic. The panel assembly  200  in  FIG.  14    is similar to the panel assembly  200  in  FIG.  11   . A difference between the two is that the sink  160  includes the mounting surface  510  (as opposed to the cabinet assembly  140  having the mounting surface  510 ). The second mounting body  202  is coupled to the mounting surface  510  of the sink  160 . The end cap  204  is then coupled to the second mounting body  202 , completely enclosing the second mounting body  202  and hiding the second mounting body  202  from view when the panel assembly  200  is viewed from the front. The end cap  204  and the mounting surface  510  may have the same width (e.g., a distance between the two end cap sides  1312 ). As shown in  FIG.  14   , the end cap  204  is formed of a hammered steel. However, the end cap  204  may alternatively be made of, for example, aluminum, wood, stone, glass, or ceramic, as well as any combination thereof and/or any other suitable material, which can be replaced or interchanged to tailor the aesthetics of the panel assembly  200 . In some embodiments, the end cap  204  and the sink  160  have the same finish and/or the same color. 
     Turning to  FIG.  15   , yet another embodiment of the panel assembly  200  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The panel assembly  200  of  FIG.  15    is similar to the panel assembly  200  of  FIG.  14   . A difference between the two is that the end cap front  1302  of the end cap  204  of  FIG.  15    is formed of a scratch resistant, deep-textured stainless steel.  FIG.  15    illustrates a dimpled texture, which is aesthetically appealing. In addition, the dimpled texture also diffuses light (i.e., reduces light reflection), which may reduce the visibility of blemishes on the end cap front  1302  that may have otherwise been easily apparent. 
     Turning to  FIG.  16   , even yet another embodiment of the panel assembly  200  according to an exemplary embodiment. The panel assembly  200  of  FIG.  16    is similar to the panel assembly  200  of  FIG.  14   . A difference between the two is that the end cap  204  of  FIG.  16    is taller than the end cap  204  of  FIG.  14    (e.g., a distance between the end cap top  1308  and the end cap bottom  1310  is greater in  FIG.  16    than in  FIG.  14   ). The height of the panel assembly  200  may be adjusted to accommodate different sized sinks (e.g., the sink  160 ) and different sized mounting surfaces (e.g., the mounting surface  510 , the surface defined by the lip  154  and the doors  144 , a desired surface to be covered, etc.). Another difference between the panel assembly  200  of  FIG.  14    and the panel assembly  200  of  FIG.  16    is that the end cap top  1308  is contiguous with the top flange of the sink  160 . The end cap  204  may be manufactured to be structurally integral with the sink  160 . An advantage of this integration is that the second mounting body  202  is not required to mount the end cap  204  to the sink  160 . In some embodiments, the countertop  150  is not disposed above the end cap top  1308  such that the end cap top  1308  is visible to a user from the front of the cabinet assembly  140 . In some embodiments, the countertop  150  is only disposed above a portion of the end cap top  1308  (e.g., an overhang of the end cap  204  proximate the end cap sides  1312  and extending laterally away from and beyond the sink  160 ). The integration of the end cap  204  with the sink  160  may help a user clean the end cap top  1308  as there is no discontinuity between the end cap top  1308  and the top flange of the sink  160  for dirt or debris to gather. In some embodiments, the end cap bottom  1310  interfaces with the cabinet assembly  140 , the cabinet assembly  140  hiding a bottom portion of the basin of the sink  160  from view, the bottom portion of the sink  160  extending below the end cap bottom  1310 . The end cap  204  and the sink  160  may be integrally manufactured such that the end cap  204  and the sink  160  are a single piece (e.g., the end cap  204  and the sink  160  are of a one-piece configuration, the end cap  204  and the sink  160  are cast together, the end cap  204  and the sink  160  are integrally structured together, etc.). The end cap  204  may have a finish similar to the finish of the end cap  204  of  FIG.  14    or the end cap  204  of  FIG.  15   . 
     The end cap  204  is shown to have a variety of possible textured appearances (i.e., rippled, dimpled, woven, peened, etc.). However, it should be appreciated that the end cap  204  is not limited to only the textures shown.  FIGS.  17 A- 17 C  illustrate three enlarged views of the stainless steel finish used for the end cap  204 . Specifically,  FIGS.  17 A- 17 C  illustrate various views of 22 gauge 304 stainless steel when it is plastically deformed such that the material has been stretched to form convex and concave surfaces. Turning to  FIG.  17 A , a zoomed-in view of the end cap  204  shown in  FIGS.  15  and  16   . The end cap  204  includes deep-texturing, creating a dimpled appearance. 
       FIG.  17 B  is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of the sheet of stainless steel. The process of deep-texturing a sheet of stainless steel metal effectively includes the metal being stretched to exceed the yield point of the metal, causing it to plastically deform (i.e., strain hardening). However, once the yield point of the material is reached, higher levels of stress are required to continue the deformation of the material. In other words, after being plastically deformed, the material increasingly gets stronger until reaching a maximum yield point. Depending on the process and tooling used, deep-textured metal can be deformed to create various patterns and shapes having convex and concave portions. Thus, the deep-textured (i.e., non-flat) portion of the stainless steel sheet may exhibit improved strength properties compared to a flat sheet of steel, because the deep-textured portion has been strain hardened. Further, by providing a deep-textured surface, a part can be made stronger without requiring additional or a denser material, thus remaining weight-efficient. 
     Lastly,  FIG.  17 C  demonstrates a side-by-side comparison of a flat sheet of stainless steel (e.g., the end cap  204  having a smooth finish) on the left, and a textured sheet of stainless steel (e.g., the end cap  204 , similar to as shown in  FIGS.  14 - 16   ) on the right. As can be seen, the textured stainless steel surface exhibits much higher scratch resistance and conceals blemishes or imperfections better than the flat surface. This is so partially due to the improved strength of utilizing a deep-textured finish, since the surface is stronger and more durable, thus allowing fewer scratches to penetrate the surface. In addition, the deep-textured finish on the right diffuses the light reflection, thus making any scratches or blemishes less apparent. It should be appreciated that applying the deep-textured finish to the cover panel  104  or the end cap  204  would beneficially provide an improved scratch resistance, and thus aid in the appearance and durability of the panel assembly  100  or the panel assembly  200 , respectively. 
     As utilized herein, the terms “approximately,” “about,” “substantially”, and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning in harmony with the common and accepted usage by those of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter of this disclosure pertains. It should be understood by those of skill in the art who review this disclosure that these terms are intended to allow a description of certain features described and claimed without restricting the scope of these features to the precise numerical ranges provided. Accordingly, these terms should be interpreted as indicating that insubstantial or inconsequential modifications or alterations of the subject matter described and claimed are considered to be within the scope of the disclosure as recited in the appended claims. 
     It should be noted that the term “exemplary” and variations thereof, as used herein to describe various embodiments, are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, and/or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such terms are not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples). 
     The term “coupled,” as used herein, means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent or fixed) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members coupled to each other, with the two members coupled with a separate intervening member and any additional intermediate members coupled with one another, or with the two members coupled together with an intervening member that is integrally formed as a single unitary body with one of the two members. Such members may be coupled mechanically, electrically, and/or fluidly. 
     The term “or,” as used herein, is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctive language such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unless specifically stated otherwise, is understood to convey that an element may be either X, Y, Z; X and Y; X and Z; Y and Z; or X, Y, and Z (i.e., any combination of X, Y, and Z). Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended to imply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least one of Y, and at least one of Z to each be present, unless otherwise indicated. 
     References herein to the positions of elements (e.g., “top,” “bottom,” “above,” “below,” etc.) are merely used to describe the orientation of various elements in the FIGURES. It should be noted that the orientation of various elements may differ according to other exemplary embodiments, and that such variations are intended to be encompassed by the present disclosure. 
     It is important to note that the construction and arrangement of the shelf assembly as shown in the various exemplary embodiments is illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible (e.g., variations in sizes, dimensions, structures, shapes and proportions of the various elements, values of parameters, mounting arrangements, use of materials, colors, orientations, etc.) without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the subject matter described herein. For example, the position of elements may be reversed or otherwise varied, and the nature or number of discrete elements or positions may be altered or varied. Any element disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized with any other embodiment disclosed herein. Although one example of an element that can be incorporated or utilized in another embodiment has been described above, it should be appreciated that other elements of the various embodiments may be incorporated or utilized with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein. 
     Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, any element (e.g., arm, shelf member, fastener, etc.) disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized with any other embodiment disclosed herein. Also, for example, the order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Any means-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating configuration, and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.