Patent Publication Number: US-11639762-B2

Title: Articulating faucet

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION 
     The present application is a Continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/284,769, filed Feb. 25, 2019, which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/636,322, filed Feb. 28, 2018, each of which is hereby fully incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     The present application relates generally to water delivery devices, such as faucets and the like. 
     Water delivery devices, such as faucets, can include a rigid spout or conduit for directing fluid to a desired location. Generally speaking, most rigid faucet spouts have a fixed structural shape or orientation, and are not adjustable so as to change the fluid discharge location or aesthetic appearance of the spout. 
     SUMMARY 
     One embodiment of the present application relates to a water delivery device. The water delivery device includes a first conduit section, and a second conduit section rotatably coupled to the first conduit section by a magnetic joint. The magnetic joint includes a plurality of magnets that cooperatively define a plurality of rotational positions between the first conduit section and the second conduit section. 
     Another embodiment relates to a water delivery device. The water delivery device includes a first conduit section configured to be coupled to a mounting surface, and a second conduit section rotatably coupled to the first conduit section by a magnetic joint. The magnetic joint includes a plurality of magnets that cooperatively define a plurality of rotational positions between the first conduit section and the second conduit section. 
     Yet another embodiment relates to a water delivery device. The water delivery device includes a first conduit section, and a second conduit section rotatably coupled to the first conduit section by a magnetic joint. The magnetic joint includes a first plurality of magnets spaced annularly apart from each other on the first conduit section and a second plurality of magnets spaced annularly apart from each other on the second conduit section. The first plurality of magnets and the second plurality of magnets cooperatively define a plurality of rotational positions between the first conduit section and the second conduit section. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, the first conduit section and the second conduit section each have a length that defines a longitudinal axis, and the first conduit section has an angled interface with the second conduit section such that rotation of the second conduit section relative to the first conduit section results in changing a relative angular orientation of the longitudinal axes. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, the water delivery device further comprises a fluid conduit extending between the first conduit section and the second conduit section. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, the water delivery device is a faucet, and the first and second conduit sections collectively define a spout of the faucet. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of magnets includes a first plurality of magnets and a second plurality of magnets. The magnetic joint further comprises a first member including the first plurality of magnets spaced annularly apart from each other, and a second member including the second plurality of magnets spaced annularly apart from each other. The first member is rotatably coupled to the second member. The first member is coupled to the first conduit section and the second member is coupled to the second conduit section. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, the second conduit section is configured to magnetically bias away from the first conduit section when the second plurality of magnets substantially overlap the first plurality of magnets, and the second conduit section is configured to magnetically bias toward the first conduit section when the second plurality of magnets substantially overlap the spaces between adjacent magnets of the first plurality of magnets. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, the first plurality of magnets and the second plurality of magnets are each arranged to have the same polarity facing each other. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, the first plurality of magnets and the second plurality of magnets are each arranged to have alternating polarities on a facing surface of the first and second members, respectively. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, the first plurality of magnets and the second plurality of magnets are each spaced apart equidistant from each other on the first and second members, respectively. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, the first member is spaced apart from the second member such that the first plurality of magnets do not physically contact the second plurality of magnets at the plurality of rotational positions. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, the first member further comprises a protrusion having a hollow cylindrical shape that defines a central passage, and the protrusion includes a flange portion. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, the protrusion rotatably couples the first member to the second member, and the flange portion retains the second member to the first member in an axial direction. 
     In some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of magnets includes a first plurality of magnets spaced annularly apart from each other on an end surface of the first conduit section and a second plurality of magnets spaced annularly apart from each other on an end surface of the second conduit section that faces the end surface of the first conduit section. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is a perspective view of a faucet shown in two different orientations according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  2    is a perspective view of the faucet of  FIG.  1    shown in another orientation according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  3    is a perspective view of the faucet of  FIG.  2    shown in another orientation according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  4    illustrates a water delivery device according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  5    illustrates the water delivery device of  FIG.  4    in two different configurations. 
         FIG.  6    is an exploded view of a conduit section of the water delivery device of  FIG.  4    according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  7    illustrates the water delivery device of  FIG.  4    in a plurality of different configurations relative to a sink basin. 
         FIG.  8    is a perspective view of a faucet according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  9    is a cross-sectional view of the faucet of  FIG.  8   . 
         FIG.  10    is a perspective view of a conduit section for use in a fluid delivery device according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  11    is an exploded view of the conduit section of  FIG.  10   . 
         FIG.  12    is a perspective view of two conduit sections including a central conduit, according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  13    is a perspective view of the two conduit sections of  FIG.  12    shown with the outer cover removed. 
         FIG.  14    is a partial exploded view of the two conduit sections of  FIG.  13   . 
         FIG.  15    illustrates a method of inserting magnetic members into a conduit section according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIGS.  16 - 18    illustrate a method of assembling magnetic members into a conduit section according to another exemplary embodiment. 
         FIG.  19    illustrates the polarity and interaction of the magnetic members of a magnetic joint for use in a conduit section according to an exemplary embodiment. 
         FIGS.  20 - 23    are perspective views of a magnetic joint according to an exemplary embodiment. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     Referring generally to the FIGURES, disclosed herein are water delivery devices that include a plurality of movable or articulating conduit sections to allow for reconfiguring or reorienting the shape of the device. According to various exemplary embodiments, the water delivery devices include a spout or conduit defined by a plurality of rigid conduit sections, where adjacent conduit sections are magnetically coupled to each other by a magnetic joint. In one embodiment, the magnetic joint includes a first member including a first plurality of individual magnets spaced annularly apart from each other (e.g., a first magnet array, etc.), and a second member including a second plurality of individual magnets similarly spaced annularly apart from each other (e.g., a second magnet array, etc.). The first member can be coupled to or integrally formed with an end of a first conduit section, and the second member can be coupled to or integrally formed with an end of an adjacent conduit section. Each of the conduit sections can be selectively rotated relative to adjacent conduit sections between a plurality of rotational positions that are defined by the spacing and the polarity of the magnets at the magnetic joint, so as to selectively reorient the conduit section(s) and change the overall shape of the water delivery device. This can, advantageously, allow for increased functionality of the water delivery device to, for example, fill various containers, provide access for cleaning various kitchen accessories (e.g., pots, pans, etc.), provide clearance around other structures or appliances where the water delivery device is installed, or change the overall aesthetic appearance of the water delivery device. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, the magnets on one of the conduit sections can be arranged to have an opposite polarity to the magnets on an adjacent conduit section, such that the two conduit sections can be magnetically coupled to, or biased toward, each other by an attractive magnetic force when the magnets on the two conduit sections are substantially overlapping each other. According to another exemplary embodiment, the magnets can be arranged to have the same polarity when facing or substantially overlapping each other, such that the magnets repel, or bias away, from each other when rotated substantially above an opposite magnet, but can attract, or bias toward, each other when rotated to substantially overlap the spaces between the magnets (see, for example,  FIG.  19   ). 
     According to another exemplary embodiment, one of the conduit sections can include a plurality of magnets arranged with alternating polarities, such that the magnets on an adjacent conduit section are attracted to the magnets having opposite polarity on the other conduit section (i.e., biased toward each other), to thereby set a relative rotational position of the two conduit sections. The magnets having the same polarity can repel each other (i.e., bias away from each other) during rotation of one of the conduit sections to set a different relative rotational position. According to various exemplary embodiments, the conduit sections do not physically contact each other at the magnet surfaces, so as to minimize the amount of friction at the joint. In this way, rotation of the two conduit sections relative to each other provides a smoother tactile response and requires less force to manually or automatically move the conduit sections (e.g., via an electromagnetic actuator, an electric motor, etc.), as compared to a conventional mechanical joint. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  1 - 3   , a water delivery device, shown as a faucet, includes a plurality of magnetic joints according to an exemplary embodiment.  FIGS.  1 - 3    illustrate the same faucet in various orientations.  FIG.  1    illustrates a faucet  100   a  shown in a first orientation and a faucet  100   b  shown in a second orientation that is different from the first orientation. The faucet  100   a  includes a base  105   a  and a spout  120   a  defined by a plurality of conduit sections  125   a  each rotatably coupled to each other by a magnetic joint. According to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of conduit sections  125   a  are substantially rigid. Each of the plurality of conduit sections  125   a  can be selectively (e.g., manually or automatically) moved by rotating one or more of the conduit sections  125   a  relative to the base  105   a , or relative to an adjacent conduit section  125   a , so as to change the orientation or shape of the spout  120   a . According to the exemplary embodiment shown in  FIG.  1   , the faucet  100   a  can be reconfigured or reoriented to the second orientation, shown as faucet  100   b  in  FIG.  1   . Similarly, the faucet  100   a  or  100   b  can be reconfigured to a third orientation, shown as faucet  100   c  in  FIG.  2   , or to a fourth orientation, shown as faucet  100   d  in  FIG.  3   . Although only four different faucet orientations are illustrated in  FIGS.  1 - 3   , it is appreciated that the faucet can be reconfigured or reoriented to a plurality of other orientations not shown. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  1 - 3   , each of the conduit sections  125   a  has a tapered or angled interface (e.g., joint, end, etc.) where the adjacent conduit sections meet, such that rotating the conduit sections  125   a  relative to each other, or relative to the base  105   a , can change the orientation or overall shape of the spout  120   a . For example, each conduit section  125   a  may define a longitudinal axis along its length. Thus, when rotating adjacent conduit sections  125   a  relative to each other, the angled interface between them results in changing the relative angular orientations of the longitudinal axes of adjacent conduit sections, thereby changing the relative positions of adjacent conduit sections. According to an exemplary embodiment, the conduit sections  125   a  have an oval cross-sectional shape, such that the angled or tapered end at the joint interface between adjacent conduit sections has a circular cross-sectional shape. This can, advantageously, allow for an annular arrangement of magnets at the joint interface to provide for uniform spacing between the individual magnets of each magnetic joint. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  4 - 7   , a water delivery device  10  is shown as a faucet according to another exemplary embodiment. As shown, water delivery device  10  includes a plurality of conduit sections  11 ,  12 ,  13 ,  14 , and  15  that are rotatably coupled to each other. Conduit sections  11 - 15  are each substantially rigid and have an oval cross-sectional shape. The conduit section  11  defines a base of the water delivery device  10 , and is configured to be coupled to a mounting surface (e.g., a countertop, a sink, etc.). The conduit section  11  can pivot or swivel about a central axis defined by the conduit section  11  relative to the mounting surface. According to an exemplary embodiment, the conduit section  11  includes a waterway or fluid conduit disposed therein that can swivel, so as to allow for articulation of the conduit section  11 . Similarly, the conduit section  15  defines a free end or outlet end of the water delivery device  10 , and is also configured to swivel or pivot about a central axis defined by the conduit section  15 . The plurality of conduit sections  11 - 15  each include a central opening for receiving one or more fluid conduits therein for communicating fluid from a fluid supply source to an end user (e.g., hot and cold water supplies, etc.). 
     Still referring to  FIGS.  4 - 7   , each of the conduit sections  11 - 14  includes an elbow portion (e.g., bent portion, angular portion, etc.) located near the ends of each conduit section that defines an angled interface between adjacent conduit sections (e.g., 45 degree interface, etc.), so as to allow for reconfiguration of the water delivery device  10 . For example, each of the conduit sections  11 - 14  can be selectively rotated or articulated relative to an adjacent conduit section between a plurality of rotational positions that are defined by a magnetic joint disposed at the end portions of each conduit section (see, for example, magnetic joint  20  in  FIG.  6   ). In other words, each conduit section  11 - 14  may define a longitudinal axis along its length, and rotating adjacent conduit sections relative to each other via the magnetic joint results in changing the relative angular orientations of the longitudinal axes of adjacent conduit sections, because of the angled interface. In this manner, the orientation and configuration of the water delivery device  10  can be selectively changed to, advantageously, allow for the water delivery device  10  to discharge water at every possible location within a sink basin, as illustrated in  FIG.  7    (see, for example, water delivery device configurations  10   c ,  10   d ,  1 O e ,  1 O f ,  10   g ,  10   h ). 
     Referring to  FIG.  5   , the water delivery device  10  is shown in a first configuration  10   a  and a second configuration  10   b . Although only two configurations of the water delivery device  10  are illustrated in  FIG.  5   , it should be appreciated that the water delivery device  10  can be adjusted or articulated between a plurality of other configurations, as illustrated in  FIG.  7   , for example. The water delivery device  10  is configured to be selectively adjusted between the first configuration  10   a  and the second configuration  10   b  by selectively rotating one or more of the conduit sections of the water delivery device, such as conduit sections  11 ,  12 ,  13 , or  14 . The conduit sections can be rotated or articulated between a plurality of angular/rotational positions that are defined by a magnetic joint at each conduit interface, as shown schematically in  FIG.  5    (e.g., conduit section  12  can be rotated (illustrated by arrows) about each of the magnetic joint assemblies  21  relative to adjacent conduit sections  11  and  13 , respectively). In this manner, for example, the free end of the last conduit section  15  (i.e., the outlet end of the water delivery device  10 ) can be moved between a first height shown in the first configuration  10   a  and a second height shown in the second configuration  10   b , which can, advantageously, allow for the water delivery device to fill different sized containers or rinse various items within a sink basin. 
     Referring to  FIG.  6   , an exploded view of conduit section  12  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown, conduit section  12  includes a central opening for receiving a fluid conduit therein (e.g., a waterway tube, etc.) to allow for fluid communication between adjacent conduit sections. Conduit section  12  is rotatably coupled to adjacent conduit sections  11  and  13  at opposite ends of conduit section  12  by a magnetic joint assembly  21 . The magnetic joint assembly  21  can be coupled at the ends of each of the conduit sections  11 ,  13 ,  14 , and  15 , so as to allow for articulation of the conduit sections relative to each other. As shown in  FIG.  6   , the magnetic joint assembly  21  includes a body  17  (e.g., sleeve, housing, etc.) having a generally hollow, cylindrical shape. The body  17  is configured to be received within openings  12   a  located at each end or each elbow portion of the conduit section  12 . One or more bearings  18  are disposed within the body  17 , and are configured to allow for relative rotational movement between the conduit section  12  and adjacent conduit sections  11  and  13 . 
     A magnetic joint member  20  (e.g., a first member, etc.) is coupled to the body  17 , and defines a plurality of angular or rotational positions for the conduit section  12  relative to adjacent conduit sections  11  and  13 . The magnetic joint member  20  is configured to interact with, and selectively magnetically bias toward or away from, a similar magnetic joint member (e.g., a second member, etc.) disposed in adjacent conduit sections  11  and  13 , so as to change the relative orientation of the conduit section  12  and adjacent conduit sections  11  and  13 . 
     For example, referring to  FIG.  19   , the magnetic joint member  20  of  FIG.  6    can be configured the same as members  520 ,  530  of a magnetic joint  500  shown in  FIG.  19   , according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown in  FIG.  19   , the magnetic joint  500  includes a magnet array defined by a plurality of magnetic members  510  (e.g., magnets, etc.) each having a north-south polarity. The magnetic joint  500  is cooperatively defined by a first member  520  including a first plurality of magnetic members  510  that are arranged on a facing surface of the first member to have their south polarity facing toward the south polarity of a second plurality of magnetic members  510  arranged on a facing surface of a second member  530 . The first member  520  and the second member  530  can be rotatably coupled to each other and can cooperatively define the magnetic joint. For example, the first member  520  can be coupled to, or integrally formed with, an end of the conduit section  12 , and the second member  530  can be coupled to, or integrally formed with, an end of an adjacent conduit section  11  or  13 . In this way, when the second member  530  is rotated relative to the first member  520 , or vice versa, the magnetic members  510  on each member will repel each other (i.e., bias away from each other) when directly facing or substantially overlapping each other, but will attract each other (i.e., bias toward each other) when the magnetic members  510  substantially overlap the spaces between the magnetic members  510  on the opposite member due to the opposite north-south polarities in these regions. Thus, the spaces between the plurality of magnetic members  510  on each member define a plurality of rotational positions or detents to hold or rotationally bias the two members relative to each other, to thereby change the relative orientation/position of the conduit sections. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, the magnet arrays of the magnetic joint  20  for each conduit section include the same number of magnetic members and can be spaced apart the same distance on each array. According to an exemplary embodiment, the magnetic joint  20  includes at least eight magnetic members. According to other exemplary embodiments, the number of, and spacing of, the magnetic members on each of the magnetic joints of the water delivery device  10  is different, depending on the relative position of each magnetic joint. According to various exemplary embodiments, the spacing and the polarity of the magnetic members can be arranged to define a plurality of rotational positions for setting a relative rotational position of the various conduit sections, the details of which are discussed in the paragraphs that follow. 
     Referring to  FIG.  6   , a waterway  19  (e.g., tube, connector, etc.) is disposed through a central portion of the magnetic joint  20 , the one or more bearings  18 , and the body  17 , and is configured to fluidly couple the conduit section  12  to adjacent conduit sections  11  and  13 . For example, the waterway  19  can, advantageously, couple a fluid conduit disposed in the conduit section  12  to a fluid conduit disposed in adjacent conduit sections  11  and  13  via couplers  16  (e.g., fasteners, etc.) at opposite ends of the waterway  19 . In this way, the waterway  19  can allow for fluid communication between conduit section  12  and adjacent conduit sections  11  and  13 , while permitting relative rotational movement between these conduit sections via the magnetic joints  20 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  8 - 9   , a faucet  100  is shown according to another exemplary embodiment. The faucet  100  includes a base  120 , a first conduit section  110 , and a second conduit section  130 . According to an exemplary embodiment, the base  120  is configured to be coupled to a support surface, such as a countertop or the like. The first conduit section  110  and the second conduit section  130  are configured to be rotated relative to each other and relative to the base  120 , so as to selectively reconfigure the shape of the faucet  100 . As shown in  FIG.  8   , the base  120  includes a hollow interior defining a flow channel for fluid to flow through. The base  120  includes part of a first magnetic joint  121   a  including a first magnet array  122  having a plurality of magnetic members  113 . The base  120  further includes an opening  123  defined by a wall  124 . The base  120  is configured to be fixed relative to the first conduit section  110  and the second conduit section  130 . 
     The first conduit section  110  is rotatably coupled to the base  120  at the first magnetic joint  121   a  via a protrusion  111 . As shown in  FIG.  8   , the protrusion  111  is received in the opening  123 , and is rotatably coupled to the wall  124  via a flange  112 . The first conduit section  110  is configured to rotate relative to the base  120  via the protrusion  111  about an axis “A” defined by the opening  123 . The protrusion  111  includes a hollow interior to allow for a flow of water to pass through from the base  120  to an interior of the first conduit section  110 . In other words, the protrusion  111  fluidly couples the base  120  to the first conduit section  110 . The first conduit section  110  further includes a second magnet array  114  having a plurality of magnetic members  113 . The second magnet array  114  is positioned on a plane parallel to, and offset from, the first magnet array  122 . The first magnet array  114  and the second magnet array  122  cooperatively define the first magnetic joint  121   a  of the assembly. 
     Still referring to  FIG.  8   , the second conduit section  130  is rotatably coupled to the first conduit section  110  at an end opposite to the first magnetic joint  121   a  at a second magnetic joint  121   b  via a protrusion  131 . The protrusion  131  is received in an opening  115  defined by a wall  116  of the first conduit section  110 . The protrusion  131  is rotatably coupled to the wall  116  via a flange  132 . The first conduit section  110  is configured to rotate relative to the second conduit section  130 , and vice versa, via the protrusion  131  about an axis “B” defined by the opening  115 . The axis B is oriented at an angle that is different than the orientation of axis A (e.g., 90 degrees relative to each other, etc.), such that rotation of the first conduit section  110  and/or of the second conduit section  130  relative to each other, or relative to the base  120 , results in a change of orientation of the entire assembly. The protrusion  131  includes a hollow interior to allow for a flow of water to pass through from the first conduit section  110  to an interior of the second conduit section  130 , and to an outlet  131  located at a distal end of the second conduit section  130 . The second magnetic joint  121   b  includes a third magnet array  114   b  having a plurality of magnetic members  113 . The third magnet array  114   b  is positioned on a plane parallel to, and offset from, a fourth magnet array  132  located at an end of the second conduit section  130 . The third magnet array  114   b  and the fourth magnet array  132  cooperatively define the second magnetic joint  121   b  of the assembly. 
     According to an exemplary embodiment, the various magnet arrays of the fir t and second magnetic joints  121   a ,  121   b  have the same number of magnetic members and can be spaced apart the same distance on each array. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first magnetic joint  121   a  and the second magnetic joint  121   b  can include at least eight magnetic members. According to other exemplary embodiments, the number of, and spacing of, the magnetic members on each of the magnetic joints is different. According to various exemplary embodiments, the spacing and the polarity of the magnetic members can be arranged to define a plurality of rotational positions for setting a relative rotational position of the various conduit sections (e.g., conduit sections  110 ,  130 , etc.). 
     For example, referring to  FIG.  19   , the magnetic members  113  of the various magnet arrays described above can be configured or arranged the same as the magnetic members  510  shown in  FIG.  11   . As shown in  FIG.  19   , the magnetic members  510  each have a north-south polarity. A first member  520  includes a first plurality of magnetic members  510  that are arranged to have their south polarity facing toward the south polarity of a second plurality of magnetic members  510  located on a second member  530 . The first member  520  and the second member  530  can cooperatively define a magnetic joint. In this way, when the second member  530  is rotated relative to the first member  520 , the magnetic members  510  will repel each other (i.e., bias away from each other) when substantially overlapping (e.g., directly facing, etc.) each other on the two members, but will attract each other (i.e., bias toward each other) when the magnetic members  510  substantially overlap the spaces between the magnetic members due to the opposite north-south polarities in these regions. Thus, the spaces between the plurality of magnetic members  510  on each member define a plurality of angular positions to hold or rotationally bias the two members relative to each other. 
     In this manner, the magnetic joints  121   a ,  121   b  can allow for the selective repositioning of the first conduit section  110  and/or the second conduit section  130  relative to each other or relative to the base  120 , so as to reconfigure the shape of the faucet  100 . This can, advantageously, allow for the faucet  100  to fill various containers, provide access for cleaning various kitchen accessories (e.g., pots, pans, etc.), provide clearance around other structures or appliances where the faucet is installed, or change the overall aesthetic appearance of the faucet. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  10 - 11   , a conduit section  210  is shown according to another exemplary embodiment. In this exemplary embodiment, the conduit section  210  includes an outer sleeve  211 , a first body half  213   a , a second body half  213   b , a plurality of magnetic members  212 , a bushing  214 , and a seal  215 . The first body half  213   a  and the second body half  213   b  each include a plurality of openings or sleeves  216  for receiving a plurality of magnetic members  212  therein. As shown in the embodiment of  FIG.  11   , the first and second body halves  213   a  and  213   b  each include six sleeves  216  arranged circumferentially about a center axis of each body half. According to other exemplary embodiments, the body halves  213   a ,  213   b  can include a different number of sleeves for receiving a different number of magnetic members  212 . Each of the sleeves  216  is spaced equidistant relative to each other along the circumference of each body, according to an exemplary embodiment, although other alternative spacing is contemplated. The first body half  213   a  and the second body half  213   b  each have a generally half-cylinder shape. The first body half  213   a  is configured to be coupled to the second body half  213   b  (e.g., via adhesive, ultrasonic welding, etc.) to define a single, unitary body  213  including a central opening  219  (see  FIG.  10   ). The two body halves  213   a ,  213   b  are configured to be coupled to each other with the bushing  214  disposed therebetween at an upper and/or lower portion thereof. At least a portion of the bushing  214  is disposed above an end of the body  213 , and is configured to rotatably couple two conduit sections together (see, for example,  FIGS.  12 - 14   ). In addition, the bushing  214  includes a central opening to fluidly couple two conduit sections together (i.e., to allow a flow of fluid to pass between two adjacent conduit sections). 
     Still referring to  FIGS.  10 - 11   , the first body half  213   a  includes an upper end surface  217   a  and a lower end surface  218   a . The upper end surface  217   a  and the lower end surface  218   a  are each oriented at different angles relative to each other (e.g., 90 degrees, etc.). In other words, the upper end surface  217   a  and the lower end surface  218   a  are not parallel to each other. Likewise, the second body half  213   b  includes an upper end surface  217   b  and a lower end surface  218   b . The upper end surface  217   b  is oriented at the same angle as the upper end surface  217   a  of the first body half  213   a , and the lower end surface  217   b  is oriented at the same angle as the lower end surface  217   a , to thereby define upper and lower coplanar surfaces of the unitary body  213  (e.g., when the first and second body halves  213   a ,  213   b  are coupled together). In this way, rotation of the conduit section  210  relative to another adjacent conduit section  210 , or relative to a fixed base (e.g., base  120 , etc.), will change the orientation or overall shape of the assembly. According to an exemplary embodiment, the conduit section  210  has an oval cross-sectional shape, such that the angled end surfaces have a circular cross-sectional shape. This can, advantageously, allow for an annular array of magnetic members  212  at the end surfaces to provide for uniform spacing between the individual magnetic members. 
     As shown in the embodiment of  FIGS.  10 - 11   , each of the magnetic members  212  is disposed in a sleeve  216  of the body  213 . At least a portion of each of the magnetic members  212  is exposed at the upper end surface  217  and at the lower end surface  218 . According to an exemplary embodiment, each of the magnetic members  212  is substantially flush with the upper end surface  217  and the lower end surface  218  of the body  213 . In this way, the upper end surface  217  and the lower end surface  218  can define part of an upper magnetic joint and a lower magnetic joint of the conduit  210 , respectively. The upper magnetic joint and the lower magnetic joint can, advantageously, allow for a plurality of conduit sections  210  to be rotatably coupled together. 
     For example, as shown in  FIGS.  12 - 14   , at least two conduit sections  210  are rotatably coupled to each other to define, for example, part of a faucet assembly or a similar water delivery device. A fluid conduit  220  (e.g., tube, etc.) is disposed through the central opening  219  of each conduit section  210  to allow for a flow of fluid to pass therethrough. The seal  215 , shown as an O-ring according to an exemplary embodiment, can sealingly engage two conduit sections  210  at an interface of the two conduit sections  210 . As shown in  FIGS.  12 - 14   , the two conduit sections  210  are rotatably coupled to each other via the bushing  214 , and can be selectively rotated between a plurality of angular positions defined by a magnetic joint of the assembly. The magnetic joint is cooperatively defined by a lower end surface  217  of the upper conduit section  210  and an upper end surface of the lower conduit section  210 . According to various exemplary embodiments, the spacing and the polarity of the magnetic members  212  at the upper and lower end surfaces of the adjacent conduit sections can be arranged to define the plurality of angular positions for setting or holding the two conduit sections  210  relative to each other. 
     For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, the magnetic members  212  on one of the conduit sections  210  can be arranged to have an opposite polarity to the magnetic members on the adjacent conduit section  210 , such that the two conduit sections can be magnetically coupled or biased toward each other by an attractive magnetic force when the magnetic members on the two conduit sections are facing each other at the magnetic joint interface. According to another exemplary embodiment, the magnetic members  212  can be arranged to have the same polarity when facing each other, such that the magnetic members  212  repel each other or bias away from each other when rotated directly above or substantially overlapping an opposite magnet on the adjacent conduit section, but can attract each other or bias toward each other when the magnetic members  512  substantially overlap the spaces between the magnetic members  212  on the end surfaces (e.g., due to the opposite polarity in those regions of the magnetic joint interface). According to various exemplary embodiments, the conduit sections  210  do not physically contact each other at the magnetic interface of the two conduit sections, so as to minimize the amount of friction at the joint interface. In this way, rotation of the two conduit sections relative to each other provides a smoother tactile response and requires less effort by a user and/or by an actuator (e.g., an electromagnetic actuator, etc.), as compared to conventional mechanical joints. 
     Referring to  FIG.  15   , a body half  313  for a conduit section is shown including a plurality of sleeves  313   a  for receiving a plurality of magnetic members  312 , according to another exemplary embodiment. The body half  313  and the magnetic members  312  are identical to the body half  213   b  and the magnetic members  212  of  FIGS.  10 - 14   . The plurality of magnetic members  312  can each be arranged to have their north polarity facing upward and their south polarity facing downward prior to being inserted into each of the sleeves  313   a  of the body half  313 . Each of the magnetic members  312  can have their end surfaces compound angle cut to match the angles of the corresponding end surfaces of the body half  313 , such that the ends of the magnetic members  312  are substantially flush with the end surfaces of the body half  313 . This can, advantageously, allow for more consistent rotation and magnetic holding of the conduit section relative to other conduit sections. According to another exemplary embodiment, the precut magnetic members  312  can be insert molded with the body half  313 . 
     According to another exemplary embodiment shown in  FIGS.  16 - 18   , a plurality of uncut magnetic members  412  are first inserted into each of the sleeves  313   a  of the body half  313 . The plurality of magnetic members  412  can then have their end surfaces compound angle cut to match the angles of the corresponding end surfaces of the body half  313  after the magnetic members are inserted in the body half  313 , such that the ends of the magnetic members  412  are substantially flush with the end surfaces of the body half  313 . According to other exemplary embodiments, the uncut magnetic members  412  can be insert molded with the body half  313 , and then cut after molding and curing of the body half  313 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  19 - 23   , a magnetic joint  500  is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. The magnetic joint  500  can be used as a joint interface for rotatably coupling a plurality of adjacent conduit sections of a water delivery device, such as, for example, first conduit section  110  and third conduit section  130 . According to other exemplary embodiments, the magnetic joint  500  can be used in other types of fluid conduits, plumbing assemblies, or other types of devices where it is desirable to rotatably couple one or more members together to, for example, allow for the selective repositioning of the members relative to each other. 
     As shown in the embodiment of  FIGS.  19 - 23   , the magnetic joint  500  includes a first member  520  and a second member  530 . According to an exemplary embodiment, the first member  520  can be coupled to, or integrally formed with, an end of a conduit section (e.g., conduit section  12 ,  110 ,  130 , etc.). Similarly, the second member  530  can be coupled to, or integrally formed with, an end of a second, adjacent conduit section. For example, the first member  520  includes a plurality of tabs  522 ,  523  for coupling (e.g., inserting, etc.) the first member  520  to another member, such as a portion of a first conduit section (e.g., conduit section  12 ,  110 ,  130 , etc.). Similarly, the second member  530  includes one or more tabs  531  for coupling the second member  530  to another adjacent member, such as a portion of a second conduit section. The first member  520  includes a central passage  524  defined by a protrusion  521  extending from the first member  520 . The central passage  524  can, for example, permit a flow of fluid to pass between two adjacent conduit sections. The protrusion  521  has a substantially cylindrical shape, and is configured to rotatably couple the first member  520  to the second member  530 . The protrusion  521  includes a flange portion  525  for retaining the second member  530  to the first member  520  in an axial direction. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first member  520  and the second member  530  only physically contact each other at the protrusion  521 , but are otherwise spaced apart (e.g., offset, etc.) from each other (see, for example,  FIG.  22   ). 
     Still referring to  FIGS.  19 - 23   , the first member  520  and the second member  530  are each configured to be selectively rotated relative to each other between a plurality of angular or rotational positions that are defined by a plurality of magnetic members  510 . The magnetic members  510  have a circular arrangement on each of the first member  520  and the second member  530 . According to the exemplary embodiment shown, the magnetic members  510  are spaced equidistant from each other, and eight magnetic members are disposed on each of the first and second members  520 ,  530 . According to other exemplary embodiments, there are a different number of magnetic members  510  on the first member  520  and/or the second member  530 . According to various exemplary embodiments, the spacing and the polarity of the magnetic members  510  on the first and second members  520 ,  530  can be arranged to define a plurality of angular positions for setting or holding the two members relative to each other. 
     For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, the magnetic members  510  on the first member  520  can be arranged to have an opposite polarity facing the magnetic members on the second member  530 , such that the two members can be magnetically coupled or biased toward each other by an attractive magnetic force when the magnetic members on the two members are facing each other. According to another exemplary embodiment shown in  FIG.  19   , the magnetic members  510  can be arranged to have the same polarity when facing each other, such that the magnetic members  510  repel each other or bias away from each other when rotated directly above or substantially overlapping an opposite magnet on the other member, but can attract each other or bias toward each other when rotated to substantially overlap the spaces between the magnetic members on the two members (e.g., due to the opposite polarity in those regions of the magnetic joint). According to an exemplary embodiment, the first member  520  only physically contacts the second member  530  at the protrusion  531 . In other words, the two members do not physically contact each other at the magnetic members  510 , so as to minimize the amount of friction at the joint interface. In this way, rotation of the two members relative to each other provides a smoother tactile response and requires less effort to rotate by a user and/or by an actuator (e.g., an electromagnetic actuator, etc.), as compared to a conventional mechanical joint. 
     The water delivery devices disclosed herein include conduit sections that can be selectively rotated relative to each other between a plurality of angular or rotational positions defined by magnetic joints, so as to selectively reorient the conduit section(s) and change the overall shape of the water delivery device. This can, advantageously, allow for increased functionality of the water delivery device to, for example, fill various containers, provide access for cleaning various kitchen accessories (e.g., pots, pans, etc.), provide clearance around other structures or appliances where the water delivery device is installed, or change the overall aesthetic appearance of the water delivery device. 
     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 invention as recited in the appended claims. 
     It should be noted that the term “exemplary” as used herein to describe various embodiments is intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations, and/or illustrations of possible embodiments (and such term is not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples). 
     The terms “coupled,” “connected,” and the like, as used herein, mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary (e.g., permanent) or moveable (e.g., removable or releasable). Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another. 
     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 apparatus and control system 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, elements shown as integrally formed may be constructed of multiple parts or elements, 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. The order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. 
     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 disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized with any other embodiment disclosed herein.