Patent Publication Number: US-8991425-B2

Title: Waterway assembly including an overmolded support plate

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/758,800, filed Feb. 4, 2013, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/848,737, filed Aug. 2, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,365,770, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/700,634, filed Jan. 31, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,766,043, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/809,033, filed May 26, 2006, the disclosures of which are expressly incorporated by reference herein. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to plumbing fixtures and, more particularly, to a faucet including a molded waterway assembly. 
     Single handle faucets typically include mixing valves that control the flow of both hot and cold water to a delivery spout. These faucets have found wide acceptance and are commonly constructed such that a handle or knob is movable in distinct directions to adjust the temperature (i.e., the mix of hot and cold water) and the flow rate of water. 
     Conventional mixing valves typically include a machined brass body and associated brass fittings. The brass body usually includes a hot water inlet, a cold water inlet, and a mixed water outlet. An adjustable valve element, typically either a mixing ball or a slidable plate, is manipulated by a handle to control the aforementioned temperature and flow rate of water. In conventional faucets, copper tubes are usually brazed to the inlets and the outlet(s) of the valve body and to associated fittings. Following the brazing operation, an etching or bright dip operation is typically performed to clean the metal surfaces of contaminants. 
     It may be appreciated that such conventional mixing valves have certain disadvantages. For example, the cost of copper tubing and the additional assembly cost associated with the brazing and bright dipping operations may be significant. The bright dipping operation may also result in the undesirable deposit of metal on the valve body. As such, it is known that the use of plastic materials for waterways may reduce cost, eliminate metal contact, and provide protection against acidic and other aggressive water conditions. The use of non-metallic materials in plumbing fixtures is significant given the growing concern about the quality of potable water. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, NSF International (National Sanitary Foundation) and other health-related organizations are actively seeking to reduce the metal content (i.e., copper and lead) in water. 
     Previous plastic faucets have often attempted to use plastic in a method similar to brass, i.e., as both a structural component and a water conducting mechanism. This has caused some issues because the yield strength and stiffness of most plastics are not similar to the properties of brass. This may result in the need to use higher grade materials that can be difficult to process. Alternatively, materials less suitable for structural applications may be used in the interest of cost and long term durability. 
     According to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a fluid delivery device includes a waterway assembly having a first inlet fluid transport component formed of a polymer and with opposing first and second ends, and an outlet fluid transport component formed of a polymer and with opposing first and second ends. The waterway assembly further includes a base formed of a polymer and having an upper surface and a lower surface and being overmolded around the first end of the first inlet fluid transport component and the first end of the outlet fluid transport component. A valve assembly includes a first inlet port in fluid communication with the first inlet fluid transport component, and an outlet port in fluid communication with the outlet fluid transport component. The valve assembly further includes a lower surface facing the upper surface of the base and sealingly engaged with the base. The valve assembly further includes a movable valve member configured to control the flow of water from the first inlet port to the outlet port. 
     According to a further illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a faucet includes a holder, and a waterway assembly including a base supported by the holder. A hot water inlet tubular member includes a first end fluidly coupled to the base and a second end configured to be fluidly coupled to a hot water supply. A cold water inlet tubular member includes a first end fluidly coupled to the base and a second end configured to be fluidly coupled to a cold water supply. An outlet tubular member includes a first end fluidly coupled to the base and a second end. A valve assembly includes a hot water inlet port in fluid communication with the hot water inlet tubular member, and a cold water inlet port in fluid communication with the cold water tubular member. The valve assembly further includes an outlet port in fluid communication with the outlet tubular member, and a lower surface facing an upper surface of the base and sealingly couple with the base. The valve assembly also includes a movable valve member configured to control the flow of water from the inlet ports to the outlet port. A locking member is operably coupled to the valve assembly and is configured to secure the valve assembly to the waterway assembly. 
     According to a further illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a fluid delivery device includes a valve assembly having a lower surface and a first locating element supported by the lower surface. The fluid delivery device further includes a waterway assembly having a first fluid transport component having opposing first and second ends, and a second fluid transport component having opposing first and second ends. A base includes an upper surface and a lower surface and is overmolded around the first end of the first fluid transport component and the first end of the second fluid transport component. The waterway assembly further includes a second locating element supported by upper surface of the base and is configured to cooperate with the first locating element of the valve assembly to facilitate proper orientation of the valve assembly relative to the waterway assembly. 
     According to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a faucet includes a valve assembly, and a waterway assembly including a first inlet fluid transport component formed of a non-metallic material and having opposing first and second ends, and an outlet fluid transport component formed of a non-metallic material and having opposing first and second ends. The waterway assembly further includes a base formed of a non-metallic material and having an upper surface and a lower surface, the base being fluidly coupled to the first end of the first fluid inlet transport component, the first end of the outlet fluid transport component, and the valve assembly. An upper housing is formed of a non-metallic material and includes a spout having an outlet fluidly coupled to the outlet fluid transport component, and a channel to receive the outlet fluid transport component. 
     According to a further illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a waterway assembly includes a plurality of flexible tubular members formed of a polymer and having opposing first and second ends. The waterway assembly further includes a base formed of a polymer and overmolded around the first end to the plurality of tubular members. 
     According to yet another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a waterway assembly includes a base including a plurality of openings. A plurality of tubular members formed of a cross-linked polymer includes opposing first and second ends, the first ends of the plurality of tubular members being received within the plurality of openings of the base. 
     According to a further illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a fluid delivery device includes a flow directing member, and a molded waterway fluidly coupled to the flow directing member. The molded waterway includes a base having an inlet opening and an outlet opening, and a flexible tubular member fluidly coupled to the inlet opening. A fluid passageway extends from the inlet opening, through the flow directing member and out of the outlet opening wherein the fluid travels in a first direction through the inlet opening and in a second direction, different from the first direction, through the outlet opening. 
     According to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a base for a waterway assembly includes an upper surface, a lower surface, a first inlet opening in fluid communication with the upper surface, and an outlet opening in fluid communication with the upper surface and positioned in spaced relation to the inlet opening. The base is formed of a cross-linked polymer. 
     According to a further illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a waterway assembly includes a plurality of flexible tubular members formed of a polymer and having opposing first and second ends. A valve interface member is formed of a polymer and overmolded around the first ends of the plurality of tubular members. The valve interface member includes a first surface, a second surface, a plurality of openings extending into the first surface and in fluid communication with the plurality of tubular members, a seat defined by the first surface and extending around the plurality of openings and configured to seal with a valve assembly to provide fluid communication between the plurality of openings and the valve assembly. 
     According to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a waterway assembly includes a base having a first surface, a second surface, a plurality of openings extending from the first surface to the second surface, and a seat defined by the first surface and configured to sealingly interface with a valve assembly. A plurality of tubular members are formed of a cross-linked polymer and include opposing first and second ends, the first ends of the plurality of tubular members being received within the plurality of openings of the base and extending from the second surface. A plurality of fluid couplings are supported by the second ends of the plurality of tubular members. 
     According to a further illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a valve interface member for a waterway assembly includes an upper surface, a lower surface, a first inlet opening extending into the upper surface, and an outlet opening extending into the upper surface and positioned in spaced relation to the inlet opening. A first flow directing channel extends into the upper surface, extends outwardly from the first inlet opening, and is in fluid communication with the first inlet opening. A second flow directing channel extends into the upper surface, extends outwardly from the outlet opening, and is in fluid communication with the outlet opening. A valve assembly seat is supported by the upper surface and extends around the first flow directing channel and the second flow directing channel, wherein the valve interface member is formed of a cross-linked polymer. 
     According to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a waterway assembly includes a plurality of tubular members formed of a polymer and having opposing first and second ends. A support plate includes a plurality of openings aligned with the first ends of the plurality of tubular members. The support plate has a plate stiffness. A base is formed of a polymer and has a base stiffness. The base is overmolded around the first ends of the plurality of tubular members and the support plate. The plate stiffness is greater than the base stiffness. 
     Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of the illustrative embodiment exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the invention as presently perceived. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The detailed description of the drawings particularly refers to the accompanying figures in which: 
         FIG. 1A  is a perspective view of an illustrative embodiment faucet of the present disclosure mounted to a sink deck and fluidly coupled to hot and cold water supply lines; 
         FIG. 1B  is a perspective view similar to  FIG. 1A , showing another illustrative fluid coupling to hot and cold water supply lines; 
         FIG. 1C  is a perspective view similar to  FIG. 1A , showing a further illustrative coupling to hot and cold water supply lines; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of the faucet of  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view similar to  FIG. 2 , with the escutcheon removed to show the molded waterway assembly, the holder, and the valve assembly; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view similar to  FIG. 3 , with the undercover removed to reveal additional details of the molded waterway assembly; 
         FIG. 5  is an exploded perspective view, with a partial cut-away, of the faucet of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a partial exploded perspective view of the faucet of  FIG. 2 , showing the escutcheon, the bonnet, the guide ring, and the securing sleeve; 
         FIG. 7  is a diagrammatic view of an illustrative embodiment faucet showing a molded waterway assembly coupled to a valve assembly; 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  8 - 8  of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a detailed cross-sectional view of  FIG. 8 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a partial exploded perspective view of the faucet of  FIG. 2 , showing the interface between the molded waterway assembly and the valve body; 
         FIG. 11  is a top plan view of the base of the molded waterway assembly; 
         FIG. 12  is a bottom plan view of the base of molded waterway assembly; 
         FIG. 13  is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view showing another illustrative fluid coupling arrangement for the waterway assembly; 
         FIG. 14  is a diagrammatic cross-sectional view similar to  FIG. 13 , showing a further illustrative fluid coupling for the waterway assembly; 
         FIG. 15  is a side elevational view, in partial cross-section, of a further illustrative embodiment faucet of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 16  is a partial exploded perspective view of the faucet of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a detailed view of the cross-section of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view showing the molded waterway assembly of the faucet of  FIG. 15  supported by the sink deck; 
         FIG. 19  is a partial perspective view of the molded waterway assembly of  FIG. 18 ; 
         FIG. 20  is an exploded perspective view of the molded waterway assembly of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 21  is a partial exploded perspective view of the faucet of  FIG. 15 , showing the interface between the valve body and the molded waterway connection; 
         FIG. 22  is a top plan view of the base of the molded waterway assembly; 
         FIG. 23  is a bottom plan view of the base of the molded waterway assembly; 
         FIG. 24  is a diagrammatic view showing fluid flow in an illustrative waterway assembly; 
         FIG. 25  is a diagrammatic view showing fluid flow in another illustrative waterway assembly; 
         FIG. 26  is a diagrammatic view showing fluid flow in a further illustrative waterway assembly; 
         FIG. 27  is a partial perspective view of a further illustrative molded waterway assembly; 
         FIG. 28  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  28 - 28  of  FIG. 27 ; 
         FIG. 29  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  29 - 29  of  FIG. 27 ; and 
         FIG. 30  is a perspective view of a support plate of the molded waterway assembly of  FIG. 27 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The embodiments of the invention described herein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to precise forms disclosed. Rather, the embodiments selected for description have been chosen to enable one skilled in the art to practice the invention. Although the disclosure is described in connection with water, it should be understood that additional types of fluids may be used. 
     Referring initially to  FIG. 1A , an illustrative embodiment faucet  10  is shown mounted to a sink or mounting deck  12  above a sink basin  14 . The faucet  10  is fluidly coupled to hot and cold water supplies or sources  16  and  18  through conventional stops  20  and  22 , respectively. Hot and cold water risers  24  and  26  may fluidly couple the stops  20  and  22  to hot and cold water inlet fluid transport components, or tubes  28  and  30 , respectively. While  FIG. 1  illustrates hot and cold water risers  24  and  26  coupled to inlet tubes  28  and  30  through fluid couplings  32  and  34 , it should be appreciated that the inlet tubes  28  and  30  may extend uninterrupted from the faucet  10  to the stops  20  and  22  through fluid couplings  36  and  38 , as shown in  FIG. 1B . Additionally,  FIG. 1C  shows an illustrative embodiment where inlet tubes  28  and  30  are coupled behind the wall  40  to the plumbing system of the building or house. 
     Referring further to  FIGS. 2-6 , the faucet  10  includes a holder  42  configured to be secured to the sink deck  12 . The holder  42  includes a pair of downwardly extending legs  44  and  46 , illustratively comprising hollow tubes having external threads  48  and  49 , respectively. Securing members, illustratively nuts  50  and  51  are threadably received by threads  48  and  49  of legs  44  and  46 . The nuts  50  and  51  are configured to secure the holder  42  to the sink deck  12 . Supports  52  and  54  are coupled to the upper ends of legs  44  and  46  and are connected by a bridge member  56 . The bridge member  56 , in turn, supports a stand  58  in spaced relation above the supports  52  and  54 . 
     With further reference to  FIG. 5 , the stand  58  illustratively includes a cylindrical outer wall  59  supporting a plurality of external threads  60 . An upper end of the wall  59  supports a platform  62  surrounding a longitudinal opening  64 . In one illustrative embodiment, the holder  42  is molded from a polymer, such as a long-fiber reinforced thermoplastic (LFRT) exhibiting high dimensional stability and strong mechanical properties. One such LFRT is Celstran® available from Ticona of Florence, Ky. However, it should be noted that the holder  42  may be formed of other suitable materials, such as stainless steel or brass. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 4 ,  5 , and  7 , a molded waterway assembly  70  is supported by the stand  58  of holder  42 . The molded waterway assembly  70  illustratively includes a valve interface member or base  72  in the form of a puck or disk having a hot water inlet opening  74 , a cold water inlet opening  76 , and an outlet opening  78 , all extending between upper and lower surfaces  80  and  82  ( FIG. 10 ). The hot water inlet tube  28 , the cold water inlet tube  30 , and an outlet tube  66  are fluidly coupled to the openings  74 ,  76 , and  78 , respectively, in the base  72 . As detailed herein, the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  are illustratively formed of a flexible non-metallic material, such as a polymer. 
     In the illustrative embodiment, the tubes  28 ,  30 ,  66  and the base  72  are formed of compatible materials, such as polymers, and illustratively of cross-linkable materials. As such, the waterway assembly  70  is illustratively electrically non-conductive. As used within this disclosure, a cross-linkable material illustratively includes thermoplastics and mixtures of thermoplastics and thermosets. In one illustrative embodiment, the tubes  28 ,  30 ,  66  and the base  72  are formed of a polyethylene which is subsequently cross-linked to form cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). However, it should be appreciated that other polymers may be substituted therefor. For example, the waterway assembly  70  may be formed of any polyethylene (PE) (such as raised temperature resistant polyethylene (PE-RT)), of polypropylene (PP)(such as polypropylene random (PPR)), or of polybutylene (PB). It is further envisioned that the waterway assembly  70  could be formed of cross-linked polyvinyl chloride (PVCX) using silane free radical initiators, of cross-linked polyurethane, or of cross-linked propylene (XLPP) using peroxide or silane free radical initiators. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 9 ,  10 , and  12 , the upper ends  84  of tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  are positioned within the openings  74 ,  76 , and  78  of the base  72 . Each opening  74 ,  76 , and  78  includes a counterbore  74   a ,  76   a , and  78   a  extending upwardly from the lower surface  82  and defining a stop surface  75  which cooperates with the upper ends  84  of the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66 , respectively. In the illustrative embodiment, the base  72  is overmolded around the upper ends  84  of the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66 . More particularly, the base  72  is formed of a polymer which is molded over the previously formed tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66 , in the manner detailed herein. The overmold base  72  partially melts the upper ends  84  of the tubes, forming couplings or bonds  86   a ,  86   b ,  86   c  between material of the base  72  and material of the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  (shown diagrammatically in  FIG. 7 ). To facilitate the molding process, the openings  74 ,  76 , and  78 , and thus tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66 , are illustratively aligned along a common center axis  79  ( FIG. 11 ). Flow directing channels  109 ,  111 , and  113  are formed within upper surface  90  of the base  72  and are configured to facilitate fluid flow through openings  74 ,  76 , and  78 , respectively ( FIGS. 10 and 11 ). 
     As shown in  FIGS. 9 and 12 , a support or reinforcing boss  110  illustratively extends downwardly from the lower surface  82  of the base  72  and surrounds the openings  74 ,  76 , and  78 . The boss  110  provides additional support to the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  coupled to the base  72 . 
     In the illustrative embodiment detailed herein, the base  72  is formed of polyethylene which has been overmolded around the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  and subsequently cross-linked. It should be noted that reinforcing members, such as glass fibers, may be provided within the polyethylene of the base  72 . While a polymer, such as cross-linkable polyethylene, is the illustrative material for the base  72 , in certain embodiments other materials may be substituted therefore, such as brass or copper. Additionally, the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  may be fluidly coupled to the base  72  in a variety of manners other than through overmolding, such as ultrasonic welding or heat staking. 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , illustrative alternative means for coupling the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  are shown. For example, in  FIG. 13 , the upper ends  84  of tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  include an enlarged portion  134  configured to be received within cooperating counterbores  135  formed within base  72 . As may be appreciated, each enlarged portion  135  is retained intermediate a lip  136  formed within counterbore  135  of the base  72  and the lower surface  102  of the valve assembly  100 . The enlarged portion  135  may illustratively be formed integral with each tube  28 ,  30 ,  66 , or as a separate component, such as an overmold. As shown in the further illustrative embodiment of  FIG. 14 , the upper ends  84  of the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  may include external threads  137  which threadably engage internal threads  139  formed within base  72 . 
     As detailed herein, the base  72  of the waterway assembly  70  is illustratively secured to the tubes through overmolding. The basic principle of overmolding plumbing connections on the tubes is well known. Exemplary overmolds are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,895,695, U.S. Pat. No. 6,082,780, U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,501, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,902,210 each listing William W. Rowley as an inventor, the disclosures of which are all expressly incorporated by reference herein. 
     In the present method, the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  are illustratively positioned within a mold (not shown) wherein pins or mandrels slide into each respective tube end  84  to prevent collapsing thereof during the injection molding process. The mold receives the parallel aligned ends of the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  and then receives a flowable polymer, illustratively polyethylene, which forms the appropriate base  72 . As further detailed herein, the upper ends  84  of the tubes  28 ,  30 ,  66  are aligned along a common axis  79  to facilitate opening and closing of portions of the mold. After the polymer sufficiently hardens, the mold is opened to release the base  72  and tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66 . Through overmolding, the end  84  of each tube  28 ,  30 , and  66  partially melts and bonds with the overmolded material of the base  72  through couplings  86   a ,  86   b , and  86   c . This makes a substantially monolithic waterway assembly  70 . 
     As is known, polyethylene is flexible, or semi-rigid, and may be cross-linked to form PEX. Cross-linking polyethylene couples the individual molecule chains together and prevents splitting. The curing or cross-linking process may use any one of several different technologies to form, for example, PEX-A, PEX-B or PEX-C. PEX-A is formed by using peroxide to cross-link polyethylene. More particularly, PEX-A is formed of a polyethylene having incorporated therein peroxide. Upon heating the peroxide polyethylene above the decomposition temperature of the peroxide, “free” radicals are produced to initiate the cross-linking process. PEX-B is formed by using silane to cross-link polyethylene. PEX-B is formed by using silane-grafted polyethylene which is then “moisture-cured” by exposure to heat and water, also known as sauna curing. PEX-C is formed of polyethylene which is cross-linked by bombarding it with electromagnetic (gamma) or high energy electron (beta) radiation. 
     By overmolding, it is possible to obtain a material to material bond, thereby providing a substantially leak-proof coupling between the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  and the base  72 . The resulting overmolded waterway assembly  70  is then cross-linked by means known in the art, e.g., peroxide cross-linking, silane cross-linking, radiation cross-linking, etc. More particularly, and as detailed above, cross-linking can be performed by a silane process or a peroxide process, or combinations thereof, wherein cross-linking is completed in a hot bath. Each process has a cross-linking catalyst that causes the polymer to crosslink when certain temperature and pressure and/or humidity are used. In the illustrative embodiment, the waterway assembly (i.e., waterway assembly  70 ) is passed under a radiation unit and the exposure causes cross-linking. While illustratively the final product  70  is cross-linked, in certain circumstances it might be appropriate to cross-link individual components  28 ,  30 ,  66 , and  72 . In a further illustrative embodiment, the material for the base  72  may be partially cross-linked prior to overmolding, followed by further cross-linking after coupling to the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 2 , the second ends  92  of each inlet tube  28  and  30  illustratively includes a fluid coupling  94 , which may define couplings  32  and  34  shown in  FIG. 1 . Illustratively, each fluid coupling  94  includes an overmolded coupler  96  and cooperating internally threaded nut  98 . Additional details regarding illustrative overmolded fluid couplings is provided in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,895,695 and 6,287,501, the disclosures of which are expressly incorporated by reference herein. 
     In one illustrative embodiment, the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  may include certain additional features, such as corrugated walls for improved flexibility, as detailed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. US 2008/0178957, published Jul. 31, 2008, entitled “TUBE ASSEMBLY,” the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 5 ,  9 , and  10 , a valve assembly  100  is supported by the base  72  of the molded waterway assembly  70 . More particularly, a lower surface  102  of the valve assembly  100  sealingly engages a seal, illustratively a silicone gasket  103  received intermediate the base  72  and the valve assembly  100 . The gasket  103  is received within a channel  104  formed within lower surface  102  of the valve assembly  100  and seals against a seat  105  formed by the upper surface of the base  72  ( FIG. 10 ). The gasket  103  extends around the flow directing channels  109 ,  111 , and  113 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 10 , first locating elements, illustratively locating pegs  106   a  and  106   b , are positioned on the bottom of the valve assembly  100  and extend downwardly from the lower surface  102 . The pegs  106   a  and  106   b  are configured to be received within second locating elements, illustratively recesses  108   a  and  108   b , formed within the upper surface  80  of the base  72 . The position of the pegs  106  within the recesses  108  facilitates proper orientation of the valve assembly  100  relative to the molded waterway assembly  70  and hence, alignment with the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  and respective openings  74 ,  76 , and  78 , with appropriate ports  116 ,  118 , and  120  of the valve assembly  100 . Engagement between the pegs  106  and the recesses  108  may also improve resistance to torque generated between the valve assembly  100  and the base  72 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 9 and 10 , the valve assembly  100  illustratively includes a stem  112  that may be actuated by a handle  114  to selectively allow variable temperature and flow rate of water to be supplied to an outlet port  120  from a hot water inlet port  116  and a cold water inlet port  118 . The base  72  of the waterway assembly  70  fluidly couples the hot water inlet port  116  to the hot water inlet tube  28 , and fluidly couples the cold water inlet port  118  to the cold water inlet tube  30 . The base  72  also fluidly couples the outlet port  120  to the outlet tube  66 . 
     With further reference to  FIG. 9 , the valve assembly  100  illustratively includes an upper housing  126 , a stem assembly  128 , a coupling member  130 , a carrier  132 , an upper disc  138 , a lower disc  144 , a seal  150 , and a lower housing  152 . The stem assembly  128  illustratively includes a ball  160  molded from a thermoplastic material over a portion of the stem  112 . A longitudinal extension or knuckle  162  extends downwardly from the ball  160 . The ball  160  transmits motion of the stem  112  to the upper disc  138  through the extension  162  and the carrier  132 . 
     The upper disc  138  is positioned on top of the lower disc  144  to control the mixing of hot and cold water and the flow rate of water through the valve assembly  100 . Illustratively, both the upper and lower discs  138  and  144  are constructed of a ceramic material, however, any suitable material may be used, such as stainless steel. 
     In a further illustrative embodiment, a temperature limiting member  164  is received intermediate the coupling member  130  and the upper housing  126 . The temperature limiting member  164  limits lateral pivoting movement of the stem  112  and the extension  162 , and hence the maximum allowable temperature of water flowing through the valve assembly  100 . 
     Additional details of an illustrative valve assembly are provided in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/494,889, filed Jul. 28, 2006, the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein. While the illustrative valve assembly  100  is of a movable disc variety, it should be appreciated that other types of valve assemblies may be substituted therefor. For example, a ball-type mixing valve assembly may find equal applicability with the present invention. Illustrative ball-type valve assemblies are detailed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,838,304 to Knapp, U.S. Pat. No. 5,615,709 to Knapp, U.S. Pat. No. 5,927,333 to Grassberger, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,920,899 to Haenlein et al., the disclosures of which are expressly incorporated by reference herein. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , an upper housing or escutcheon  170  includes wing portions  172  and  174  which are received over the holder  42  and secured thereto through conventional fasteners. More particularly, hex bolts  176  and  178  are illustratively received within legs  44  and  46  and extend through apertures  180  and  182  formed in the supports  52  and  54  and up into threaded apertures  184  and  186  formed in the bottom of the wings  172  and  174 . The valve assembly  100 , the base  72 , and the holder  42  are all received within a hub  187  of the escutcheon  170 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 5 and 8 , a spout  188  is formed by an upper spout member  189  of the escutcheon  170  and a lower spout or undercover member  190 . The undercover member  190  is illustratively coupled to the upper spout member  189  through resilient snap fingers  191 . A boss  192  having a central opening  193  on the undercover member  190  may be aligned with a cooperating opening  194  formed in a boss  196  of the holder  42 . A fastener (not shown) may be received within the aligned openings  193  and  194  to further secure the undercover member  190  to the holder  42  ( FIG. 8 ). 
     The undercover member  190  illustratively includes a channel  198  which receives a portion of the outlet tube  66 . The channel  198  extends from the hub  187  of the escutcheon  170  to an outlet  199  of the spout  188 . The outlet tube  66  rests in channel  198  when the spout  188  is assembled. More particularly, upper spout member  189  conceals the channel  198  from the view of an outside observer. 
     In one illustrative embodiment, the spout  188  is formed of a non-metallic material. More particularly, the upper spout member  189  and the undercover member  190  may be molded from a polymer, such as a thermoplastic or a cross-linkable material, and illustratively a cross-linkable polyethylene (PEX). Further illustrative non-metallic materials include polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and thermosets, such as polyesters, melamine, melamine urea, melamine phenolic, and phenolic. Of course, the spout  188  may be formed of traditional metallic materials, such as zinc or brass. Additional details of a further illustrative embodiment spout is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,717,133, issued May 18, 2010, entitled “SPOUT TIP ATTACHMENT,” the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein. 
     As detailed herein, a first end  84  of the outlet tube  66  is coupled to the base  72  of the waterway assembly  70 . The second end  92  of the outlet tube  66  is illustratively coupled to an overmold component  200 . The overmold component  200  provides an interface including a sealing surface and is operably coupled to an aerator assembly  202  ( FIG. 8 ). Additional details concerning the overmold component  200  are provided in U.S. Pat. No. 7,748,409, issued Jul. 6, 2010, entitled “OVERMOLD INTERFACE FOR FLUID CARRYING SYSTEM,” the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 5 and 9 , a locking sleeve or nut  204  is received over the valve assembly  100  and waterway base  72 , and threadably engages with the external threads  60  of the holder  42 . As shown in  FIG. 9 , lip  205  of locking sleeve  204  forces the valve assembly  100  toward the base  72  of the waterway assembly  70 , thereby compressing the gasket  103  for effecting a seal therebetween. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 5 ,  6  and  9 , a guide ring  206  is concentrically received over the locking sleeve  204 . The guide ring  206  includes a resilient body  208  having a slit  210  formed therein. A plurality of retaining tabs  212  extend upwardly from the body  208 . The retaining tabs  212  of the guide ring  206  are configured to frictionally engage with an inside surface  214  of a bonnet  216  to retain the bonnet  216  in a fixed position relative to the locking sleeve  204 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 15 and 16 , a further illustrative embodiment faucet  310  is shown. The faucet  310  includes many of the same features identified above with respect to faucet  10 . As such, similar components are identified with like reference numbers. 
     The faucet  310  includes a holder  312  having a cylindrical outer wall  314  supporting a stand  316 . A securing member, illustratively a conduit  318  having external threads  320 , extends downwardly from the holder  312 . A nut  322  and washer  324  may threadably engage the threads  320  of the conduit  318  for securing the holder  312  to the sink deck  12 . The stand  316  includes a plurality of external threads  60  and a platform  62  surrounding a longitudinal opening  64 . 
     The holder  312  may be overmolded to an upper end  325  of the conduit  318 . Alternatively, the holder  312  may be secured to the conduit  318  in other conventional manners, such as locking rings or threads. Illustratively, the holder  312  is formed from a polymer, such as Celstran®. 
     The holder  312  is received within an upper housing or escutcheon  326 , illustratively formed of brass. The housing  326  includes a hub  328  and a spout portion  330 . As shown in  FIG. 13 , the spout portion  330  is configured to slidably receive a conventional pull out wand  332 . Illustratively, the pull out wand  332  is Model No. 473 available from Delta Faucet Company of Indianapolis, Ind. The pull out wand  332  includes a coupling portion  334  configured to be received within the spout portion  330 , a body  336  connected to the coupling portion  334 , and a spray head  338 . The second end of the outlet tube  66  illustratively includes an overmolded coupling  339  which is configured to be fluidly coupled to the wand  332 . The overmolded coupling  339  illustratively includes annular grooves  341  configured to receive sealing members, such as o-rings (not shown). The coupling  339  may be formed in a manner similar to couplings  96  detailed above. A button  340  may be provided on the wand  332  and is operably coupled to a diverter (not shown) to toggle between different modes of operation, such as a spray mode and a stream mode. 
     The molded waterway  70 ′ is supported by the holder  312  and includes tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  overmolded to a base  72 ′, in a manner similar to the molded waterway assembly  70  detailed above. The inlet tubes  28  and  30  are configured to extend through a lower opening  342  defined by the wall  314  of the stand. The outlet tube  66  is configured to extend through a side opening  344  formed within the wall  314  and to the outlet  346  of the spout portion  330 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 16 ,  20 , and  23 , a first registration element, illustratively a plurality of aligned ribs  347  extend downwardly from the lower surface  82  of the base  72 ′. The ribs  347  are configured to be received within a second registration element, illustratively a notch  349  formed within the stand  316  to facilitate proper orientation of the waterway assembly  70 ′ relative to the holder  312  ( FIG. 16 ). It should be appreciated that the base  72 ′ may be registered relative to the stand  316  in a number of ways, including by providing the base  72 ′ with an asymmetrical shape configured to cooperate with mating elements on the stand  316 . 
     The valve assembly  100  is sealingly coupled to the base in a manner detailed above with respect to the faucet  10 . A bonnet  348  is received over the valve assembly  100  and the molded waterway assembly  70 ′. The bonnet  348  threadably engages the external threads  60  of the holder  312 . An annular lip  350  of the bonnet  348  engages the valve assembly  100 , thereby securing the valve assembly  100  and the waterway assembly  70  to the holder  312  ( FIG. 17 ). 
     With reference now to  FIGS. 24-26 , various illustrative embodiments of waterway assembly  70  and cooperating flow directing member, illustratively valve assembly  100 , are shown. In  FIG. 24 , the base  72  defines hot water inlet opening  74 , cold water inlet opening  76 , and outlet opening  78 . Fluid passageways are defined by the inlet openings  74  and  76 , cooperating valve assembly  100 , and outlet opening  78 . Hot and cold water travels in parallel directions (as shown by arrows  352   a  and  352   b ) through the inlet openings  74  and  76 . Valve assembly  100  changes the water flow direction and redirects the mixed water flow in a second direction downwardly through the outlet opening  78  (as shown by arrow  354 ). 
     With further reference to  FIG. 25 , a further illustrative waterway assembly  70  is shown with two separate bases  72   a  and  72   b . The separate bases  72   a  and  72   b  may be utilized for a widespread-type faucet. More particularly, hot water  352   a  enters through hot water inlet opening  74  formed within base  72   a  where it is redirected through a flow directing member, illustratively a hot water control valve  100 . The redirected hot water passes in a second direction downwardly (as shown by arrow  354   a ) and out through hot water outlet  358   a  to a delivery spout (as shown by arrow  356 ). Similarly, cold water enters through cold water inlet opening  76  and is redirected by a cold water outlet valve  100   b . The redirected cold water then exits the base  72   b  through cold water outlet  358   b  in a second direction to the delivery spout. As shown, the cold water combines with the hot water prior to exiting the delivery spout. 
       FIG. 26  illustrates yet another illustrative embodiment waterway assembly wherein first and second bases  72   a ′ and  72   b ′ are provided for a centerset-type faucet. The inlet openings  74  and  76  are similar to those identified above with respect to  FIG. 25 . Similarly, hot and cold water valves  100   a  and  100   b  are provided to control the flow of fluid through the respective inlets  74  and  76  to hot and cold water outlets  358   a ′ and  358   b ′, respectively. The hot and cold water outlets  358   a ′ and  358   b ′ in  FIG. 26  each include first and second portions  360   a ,  360   b  and  362   a ,  362   b , respectively, disposed at right angles to each other. More particularly, fluid flow in a first direction (as shown by respective arrows  352   a ,  352   b ) is redirected from the inlet  74 ,  76  to outlet  358   a ′,  358   b ′ for exiting base  72   a ′,  72   b ′ in a second direction (as shown by arrow  362   a ,  362   b ) which is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The fluid flow from the outlets  358   a ′ and  358   b ′ then combines and passes to the outlet of a delivery spout (as shown by arrow  366 ). 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 27-30 , a further illustrative embodiment waterway assembly  470  is shown. The waterway assembly  470  includes many of the same features identified above with respect to waterway assembly  70 . As such, similar components are identified with like reference numbers. 
     The molded waterway assembly  470  may be supported by a holder, such as holder  42 ,  312  detailed above. Similar to waterway assembly  70 , waterway assembly  470  includes tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  overmolded with a valve interface member or base  472 . More particularly, the molded waterway assembly  470  illustratively includes valve interface member or base  472  in the form of a puck or disk having a hot water inlet opening  474 , a cold water inlet opening  476 , and an outlet opening  478 , all extending between upper and lower surfaces  480  and  482  ( FIG. 28 ). An annular groove  483  may be formed within the base  472  to receive an o-ring (not shown). Hot water inlet tube  28 , cold water inlet tube  30 , and outlet tube  66  are fluidly coupled to the openings  474 ,  476 , and  478 , respectively, in the base  472 . Hot water inlet tube  28 , cold water inlet tube  30 , outlet tube  66  and base  472  are illustratively formed of a polyethylene which is subsequently cross-linked to form cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). However, it should be appreciated that other polymers may be substituted therefor. 
     A valve assembly (not shown) is supported by the base  472  of the molded waterway assembly  470 , in a manner similar to valve assembly  100  being supported by the base  72  of the molded waterway assembly  70  as detailed above. A lower surface of the valve assembly may sealingly engage a seal, such as a silicone gasket received intermediate the base  472  and the valve assembly. The gasket illustratively seals against a seat formed by the upper surface  480  of the base  472  and extends around the openings  474 ,  476 , and  478 . 
     The valve assembly interfacing with the base  472  may be of a Euro-motion design different from the valve assembly  100  detailed above. As such, the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  are arranged within the base  472  in a different configuration due to the Euro-motion design of the valve assembly. More particularly, the openings  474 ,  476 , and  478  receiving the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  are not aligned along a vertical plane, and the outlet tube  66  is no longer positioned intermediate the hot water inlet tube  28  and the cold water inlet tube  30 . 
     Locating elements, illustratively recesses  484   a ,  484   b  and  484   c  are formed within the upper surface  480  of the base  472 , and are configured to receive cooperating locating elements, such as pegs, of the valve assembly. The position of the pegs within the recesses  484  facilitates proper orientation of the valve assembly relative to the molded waterway assembly  470  and hence, alignment with the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  and respective openings  474 ,  476 , and  478 , with appropriate ports of the valve assembly. Engagement between the pegs and the recesses  484  may also improve resistance to torque generated between the valve assembly and the base  472 . 
     With reference to  FIGS. 27-29 , the upper ends  84  of tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66  are positioned within the openings  474 ,  476 , and  478  of the base  472 . Each opening  474 ,  476 , and  478  includes a counterbore  474   a ,  476   a , and  478   a  extending upwardly from the lower surface  482  and defining a stop surface which cooperates with the upper ends  84  of the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66 , respectively. In the illustrative embodiment, the base  472  is overmolded around the upper ends  84  of the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66 . More particularly, the base  472  is formed of a polymer which is molded over the previously formed tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66 , in the manner detailed herein. The overmold base  472  partially melts the upper ends  84  of the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66 , forming couplings or bonds between material of the base  472  and material of the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66 . In one illustrative embodiment, the tubes  28 ,  30 , and  66 , and the base  472  are all formed of polyethylene which is cross-linked following the overmolding operation. 
     The base  472  illustratively includes an internal support plate  490  to improve rigidity and reduce deflection of the base  472  during high pressure loads (e.g., high water pressure between valve assembly and base  472 ). The reduced deflection of the base  472  helps to minimize any potential gap formed between the valve assembly and the base  472  during burst testing. The minimized gap prevents the seal above the base  472  from migrating away from the pressure load and relieving to atmosphere. The support plate  490  also helps provide for a smooth or level upper surface  480  on the base  472 . 
     The support plate  490  includes openings  494 ,  496 , and  498  aligned with openings  474 ,  476 , and  478  of the base  472 . Arcuate notches  500   a ,  500   b , and  500   c  are formed in the outer edge  502  of the support plate  490  to align with locating recesses  484   a ,  484   b  and  484   c  in the base  472  for receiving pegs of the valve assembly. 
     The base  472  is illustratively overmolded around the support plate  490 . Illustratively, the base  472  encapsulates the support plate  490  so that no portion of the support plate  490  is exposed or visible from outside of the base  472 . The support plate  490  is illustratively formed of a material having a stiffness greater than that of the overmolded base  472 . For example, the PEX of the base  472  has a Modulus of Elasticity of approximately 0.8 GPa, and the stainless steel of the support plate  490  has a Modulus of Elasticity of approximately 180 GPa. 
     In the illustrative embodiment, the support plate  490  is formed of a metal. More particularly, the support plate  490  may be formed of stainless steel having a thickness of approximately 0.05 inches and an outer diameter of approximately 1.16 inches. It should be appreciated that materials other than metal, including polymers, may be used for the support plate  490  if having a stiffness greater than the material of the base  472 . 
     Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred embodiments, variations and modifications exist within the spirit and scope of the invention as described and defined in the following claims.