Patent Publication Number: US-2021172538-A1

Title: Faucet with multi-directional controls

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/214,299, filed Dec. 10, 2018, which is a Continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/403,789, filed Jan. 11, 2017, both of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     This application relates generally to the field of faucets. More specifically, this application relates to faucets having a handle that provides for multi-directional control of water temperature and flow rate about two separate axes. 
     SUMMARY 
     One embodiment relates to a faucet that is mountable to a mounting surface. The faucet includes a base, a sleeve, a handle body, a first valve, a second valve, and a spout. The base is configured to detachably mount to the mounting surface. The sleeve is coupled to the base, such that the sleeve extends upwardly from the base. The handle body is disposed around the sleeve and is configured to rotate about a vertical axis (e.g., relative to the base). The handle body includes a vertical portion and a horizontal portion extending outward from a side of the vertical portion. The first valve is disposed within the base, and the second valve is disposed within the horizontal portion of the handle body. The spout is configured to receive water from the sleeve and direct the water to an outlet of the spout. The vertical portion of the handle body is configured to be rotated about the vertical axis to control the first valve, and the horizontal portion of the handle body is configured to be rotated about a horizontal axis to control the second valve. 
     Another embodiment relates to a faucet that is mountable to a mounting surface and configured to fluidly connect to a supply of hot water and a supply of cold water. The faucet includes a base configured to detachably mount to the mounting surface; a first valve supported by the base and configured to control a temperature of water comprising the hot water, the cold water or a mixture thereof through the first valve; a spout configured to receive and output a flow of water; and a handle assembly. The handle assembly includes a handle body disposed between and rotatable relative to the base and the spout about a longitudinal axis; a handle extending outwardly from the handle body along a radial axis relative to the longitudinal axis; and a second valve disposed within the handle assembly and configured to control a flow rate of the flow of water to the spout. The handle is rotatable relative to the handle body about the radial axis to control the second valve, and the handle rotates with the handle body about the longitudinal axis to control the first valve. 
     Yet another embodiment relates to a faucet that is configured to fluidly connect to a supply of hot water and a supply of cold water. The faucet includes a spout having an outlet configured to output a flow of water; a first valve configured to control a temperature of water comprising the hot water, the cold water, or a mixture thereof through a first adjustment; a second valve configured to control a flow rate of the water from the first valve to the spout through a second adjustment; a handle body that is rotatable about a longitudinal axis; a handle extending outwardly from the handle body along a radial axis relative to the longitudinal axis, where the handle is rotatable relative to the handle body about the radial axis to control the second adjustment; a support sleeve that is disposed in the handle body and supports the spout; and a rotatable sleeve that is disposed in the support sleeve and fluidly connects the first and second valves, wherein rotation of the handle body rotates the rotatable sleeve and the handle about the longitudinal axis to control the first adjustment. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a faucet, according to the present application. 
         FIG. 2  is another perspective view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 1  indicating a motion to control the flow of water through the faucet. 
         FIG. 3  is another perspective view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 1  indicating a motion to control the temperature of water flowing through the faucet. 
         FIG. 4  is an exploded view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5  is a cross-sectional view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a faucet, according to the present application. 
         FIG. 7  is a top view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 8  is a front view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 9  is a partially exploded perspective view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 10  is another partially exploded perspective view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 11  is an exploded view of a portion of the faucet shown in  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 12  is a cross-sectional view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 6 . 
         FIG. 13  is another cross-sectional view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 6  taken along line  13 - 13  in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 14  is another cross-sectional view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 6  taken along line  14 - 14  in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 14A  is a detailed view of a portion of the faucet shown in  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 14B  is another detailed view of a portion of the faucet shown in  FIG. 14 . 
         FIG. 15  is another cross-sectional view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 6  taken along line  15 - 15  in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 16  is another cross-sectional view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 6  taken along line  16 - 16  in  FIG. 15 . 
         FIG. 17  is another cross-sectional view of the faucet shown in  FIG. 6  taken along line  17 - 17  in  FIG. 15 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring generally to the Figures, disclosed herein are various embodiments of faucets that provides for multi-directional control of water temperature and flow rate about two separate axes. The faucets include handle assemblies that have a first member, which is rotatable about a first axis to control the temperature of water flowing through and from the faucet, and a second member, which is rotatable about a second axis to control the flow rate of water flowing through and from the faucet. The first and second axes may be transversely arranged, such as, for example, perpendicular to one another. 
       FIGS. 1-5  illustrate an exemplary embodiment of a faucet  100  having a handle assembly  101 , a base  102 , a spout  105 , and a valve assembly  104 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , the base  102  is configured to mount to a support  90  to secure the faucet  100  to the support  90 . The support  90  may be, according to non-limiting examples, a sink, a countertop, a cabinet or other suitable member. The support  90  includes a mounting surface  91 , which is shown in  FIG. 1  as an upper surface of the support  90 , on which the faucet  100  (e.g., the base  102 ) is mounted. 
     The handle assembly  101  is configured to provide a multi-directional control of temperature and flow rate of water to an outlet of the faucet. The handle assembly  101  (or a portion thereof) may be moveable (e.g., rotatable) about a first axis to control a temperature of water, and the handle assembly  101  (or a portion thereof) may be moveable about a second axis to control a flow rate of water, where the second axis is not the same as (e.g., is not collinear with) the first axis. As shown in  FIGS. 1-5 , the handle assembly includes a handle body  110  and a handle  111 . The handle  111  is rotatable relative to the handle body  110  to control the flow rate of water; and the handle  111  rotates with the handle body  110  to control the temperature of the water. 
     Also shown in  FIG. 3 , the first axis is configured as a longitudinal axis LA of the handle body  110 , such that the handle assembly  101  (e.g., the handle body  110  and the handle  111 ) is rotatable about the longitudinal axis LA to control the temperature of water flowing through the faucet  100  (e.g., the spout  105 ). The longitudinal axis LA may extend vertically through a center of the handle body  110 . The longitudinal axis LA may be concentric with base  102  (e.g., center axis thereof). The longitudinal axis LA may be configured as a vertical axis. The handle assembly  101  is rotatable about the longitudinal axis LA by an angular rotation a between a first position and a second position. According to one embodiment, the first position corresponds to a maximum cold temperature of the water flow and the second position corresponds to a maximum hot temperature of the water flow. For example, in the first position, the cold water supply may be fully open and the hot water supply may be fully closed; and in the second position, the cold water supply may be fully closed and the hot water supply may be fully open. The handle assembly  101  can be positioned in any number of intermediate positions located between the first and second positions, where each intermediate position corresponds to a different temperature setting. For example, as the handle assembly  101  is rotated from the first position toward the second position, the temperature progressively increases from the maximum cold temperature toward the maximum hot temperature. According to one non-limiting example, the angular rotation a between the first position and the second position is about 90° (e.g., ninety degrees plus/minus ten degrees). A 90° rotation advantageously provides a range of motion that is large enough to accurately set the temperature while moving the handle, but not so large as to end up with a user&#39;s arm/hand under the flow during adjustment of the handle. 
     The handle body  110  includes a base  113  and a shoulder  114 . As shown best in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the base  113  is a hollow member having a substantially cylindrical shape to receive other elements/components of the faucet  100 . The base  113  defines the longitudinal axis LA about which the handle body  110  rotates. Also shown, an outer profile of the base  113  of the handle body  110  is substantially the same as an outer profile of the spout  105 . This arrangement improves the aesthetics of the faucet  100  by providing a harmonious outer profile between the base  113  and the spout  105  with a more seamless appearance. 
     The shoulder  114  of the handle body  110  extends outwardly form the base  113  and is configured to support the handle  111  either directly or indirectly, such as through the second valve  142 . As shown best in  FIG. 14 , the shoulder  114  is hollow member having a substantially cylindrical shape to receive other elements/components of the faucet  100 , such as the second valve  142 . Also, an outer profile of the shoulder  114  may be substantially the same as an outer profile of the handle  111 . This arrangement improves the aesthetics of the faucet  100  by providing a harmonious outer profile between the shoulder  114  and the handle  111  with a more seamless appearance. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the second axis is configured as a radial axis RA of the handle  111 , such that the handle  111  is rotatable relative to the handle body  110  about the radial axis RA to control a flow of water through the faucet  100  (e.g., the spout  105 ). The radial axis RA may extend horizontally through a center of the handle  111 . For example, the handle  111  may be a substantially cylindrical member that extends outwardly from the handle body  110  and along the radial axis RA. The radial axis RA may be configured as a horizontal axis, such that handle  111  extends horizontally from the handle body  110 . The handle  111  may be open at an inner end having a chamber  116  (e.g., cavity) that receives the second valve  142  (e.g., at least a portion thereof). An outer end of the handle  111  may be closed. As noted, the outer profile of the handle  111  may complement (e.g., be the same as or substantially the same as) the outer profile of the shoulder  114  of the handle body  110 . 
     The spout  105  is a hollow member having a first end  151  (e.g., inlet end, entrance, etc.) fluidly connected to a second end  152  (e.g., outlet end, outlet, etc.) through a fluid passage  153 . As shown in  FIGS. 9 and 15 , the spout  105  is a generally U-shaped or J-shaped tubular element. The second end  152  may be configured to receive an element, such as an aerator  155 , sprayer or other device to influence the configuration (e.g., shape, pattern) of the water emitted from the second end  152  of the spout  105 . The first end  151  is configured to be coupled to another element of the faucet  100 , which is discussed below. 
     The valve assembly  104  includes a valve. As shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the valve assembly  104  includes a first valve  141  and a second valve  142 . The first valve  141  is configured to fluidly connect to hot and cold water supplies through the first and second fluid conduits  93 ,  94  (see  FIG. 4 ) and to control the outputted temperature of water based on the hot and cold water received through the conduits  93 ,  94 . The first valve  141  is received in an element/component (e.g., housing) of the base  102 , which is discussed below. The first valve  141  can be adjusted, such as through a torque connection (e.g., an adjustment gear  143 ) to vary the temperature of water outputted from the first valve  141  through an output  144 . Rotation of the adjustment gear  143  in a first direction (e.g., clockwise, counterclockwise) increases the temperature of the outputted water, whereas rotation of the adjustment gear  143  in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction decreases the temperature of the outputted water. The adjustment gear  143  may be rotatable relative to a casing  145  of the first valve  141 , and the casing  145  may be retained by the base  102  to prevent relative rotation of the casing  145  and the base  102  (or at least part thereof). 
     The second valve  142  is fluidly connected to the outputted water from the first valve  141  and controls the flow rate of the outputted water to the spout  105 . The second valve  142  has a full open position corresponding to a maximum flow rate of water to the spout  105 . The second valve  142  has a full closed position corresponding to a zero flow rate (i.e., no water flows to the spout  105 ). The second valve  142  may include any number of intermediate positions between the full open and full closed positions corresponding to various flow rates between the maximum and zero flow rates. The full open, full closed and any intermediate positions of the second valve  142  are archived by rotation of the handle  111  relative to the handle body  110 . The handle  111  retains a first portion  147   a  of the second valve  142  such that rotation of the handle  111  drives rotation of the first portion  147   a  of the second valve  142  relative to a second portion  147   b  of the second valve  142 . For example, the first portion  147   a  may be a drive gear or other torque driving device and the second portion  147   b  may be as a casing (or portion thereof). The first portion  147   a  is disposed in the chamber  116  and coupled to the handle  111 . Rotation of the first portion  147   a  relative to the second portion  147   b  drives a valve member  148  between full open, full closed, and any intermediate positions relative to a valve chamber  149  (see  FIG. 5  as well as  FIG. 16  of that embodiment). For example, the valve member  148  may be moved to close off the valve chamber  149  in the full closed position to prevent water from flowing to the spout  105 , whereas the valve member  148  may be moved to maximize the flow rate to the spout  105  in the full open position. 
     The faucet  100  may include one or more than one sleeve. As shown best in  FIG. 4 , the faucet  100  includes a first (e.g., rotatable) sleeve  106  that is configured to control the first valve  141  upon rotation. The sleeve  106  is configured to rotate with the handle body  110  about the longitudinal axis LA to control the first valve  141 . The sleeve  106  includes a hollow tubular member  160  defining an internal fluid passage  161  that fluidly connects the first valve  141  and the second valve  142 . The sleeve  106  may include a first torque connection  162  to rotate a mating torque connection of the first valve  141  (e.g., the adjustment gear  143 ) upon rotation of the sleeve  106  to adjust a temperature of the water from the first valve  141  to the second valve  142 . As shown, the first torque connection  162  is disposed at a first end  163  (e.g., bottom end, lower end, etc.) of the sleeve  106 . The first torque connection  162  may include a gear, a spline, a key-way feature (i.e., a feature having a shape that is configured to transmit torque) such as a star shape, square shape, “D” shape, “double D” shape or other suitable shape, or any other suitable torque transmission feature. As shown best in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , a second torque connection  164  is disposed at a second end  165  of the sleeve  106 . The second torque connection  164  can be configured the same as or different form the first torque connection  162 , and the second torque connection  164  is configured to communicate rotation from a valve connector  167 . 
     The valve connector  167  is configured to transmit rotation of the handle body  110  to the sleeve  106  to thereby control the first valve  141 . The valve connector  167  includes an inlet that is fluidly connected with the outlet  166  of the sleeve  106 . The valve connector  167  includes a torque connector that is configured to mate with the second torque connector  164  so that rotation of the valve connector  167  drives rotation of the sleeve  106 . The valve connector  167  includes an outlet  168  that is fluidly connected with the spout  105  so that water controlled by the second valve  142  passes through the outlet  168  to the spout  105 . The valve connector  167  includes an inlet opening  169  that is configured to receive a portion of the second valve  142  to control the flow rate of the water to the spout  105  upon rotation of the handle  111  and the first portion  147   a  of the second valve  142  about the radial axis RA relative to the sleeve  106  and valve connector  167 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , the inlet opening  169  extends transversely through the valve connector  167  at a location that is between the outlet  168  and the inlet. It is noted that the valve connector  167  and the sleeve  106  can be combined into a single component/element, such as, for example, as shown in  FIGS. 6-17 . 
     Also shown best in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the faucet  100  includes a second sleeve  107  (e.g., a support sleeve, a fixed sleeve, a stationary sleeve, etc.) that is coupled to the base  102 . As shown, the second sleeve  107  is configured to remain stationary with the base  102  upon relative rotation of the (rotatable) sleeve  106  and handle body  110 , so that there is no relative rotation or translation of the second sleeve  107  relative to the base  102  (or part thereof). According to other exemplary embodiment(s), the second sleeve  107  is coupled to the base  102 , such as to prohibit movement along the longitudinal axis LA while allowing relative rotation of the second sleeve  107  (e.g., relative to the base  102  or part thereof). The second sleeve  107  is configured to support the spout  105 , such that the handle body  110  and the spout  105  can rotate relative to one another. The second sleeve  107  includes a hollow tubular member  170  defining an internal passage  171  in which the first sleeve  106  is disposed. The tubular member  170  of the sleeve  107  extends from a first end  173  (e.g., bottom end, lower end, etc.) to a second end  174  (e.g., top end, upper end, etc.). The first end  173  is configured to be coupled to and supported by the base  102 , which is discussed below (see  FIGS. 14 and 15  for reference); and the second end  174  is configured to support the spout  105 . The second sleeve  107  may include an aperture  175  that is located between the first and second ends  173 ,  174  and is configured to receive the portion of the second valve  142  that is received by the inlet opening  169  of the first sleeve  106 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , the aperture  175  is elongated (e.g., slotted) to allow the second valve  142  to rotate relative to the second sleeve  107  (if stationary) upon relative rotation of the first sleeve  106  and the second valve  142  coupled thereto. Thus, the configuration (e.g., size and shape) of the aperture  175  is configured to allow rotation of the handle body  110 , the sleeve  106 , and the second valve  142  between the maximum cold temperature and the maximum hot temperature. 
     The faucet  100  may include a swivel joint that allows for the relative rotation between the spout  105  and the second sleeve  107  and/or the handle body  110 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , the swivel joint includes a swivel connector  181  that includes a lower end  182 , which engages an upper end of the (stationary) sleeve  107  and/or an upper end of the handle body  110 , and an upper end  183 , which engages a lower end (e.g., the first end  151 ) of the spout  105 , such as to allow the spout  105  to rotate relative to the second sleeve  107  and/or the first sleeve  106  to reposition the outlet in the spout  105 . The swivel connector  181  may be a generally cylindrical element having a bore (e.g., through the center) to allow fluid (e.g., water from the second valve  142 ) to pass into the fluid passage  153  of the spout  105 . The first end  151  of the spout  105  may include an undercut section (e.g., a section having a thinner wall relative to the adjacent wall) that receives the upper end  183  of the swivel connector  181 . The lower end  182  of the swivel connector  181  may be coupled (e.g., fixedly, rotatably) to the second sleeve  107  and/or the handle body  110 . For example, the lower end  182  may be coupled to the second end  174  of the second sleeve  107 . Also, for example, the lower end  182  may be rotatably received in the handle body  110 . 
     The swivel joint may include a collar  180  disposed between a portion of the handle body  110  and a portion of the swivel connector  181  to allow relative rotation between the swivel connector  181  and the handle body  110 . The collar  180  may be a cylindrical bushing to facilitate the relative rotation between the swivel connector  181  and the handle body  110 . The lower end  182  of the swivel connector  181  may include a channel (e.g., a recess having a smaller diameter than the adjacent section(s)) that receives the collar  180 . The configuration (e.g., depth, length, etc.) of the channel may be tailored to the configuration of the collar  180 . A seal in the form an O-ring  190   a  may be disposed between the lower end  182  of the swivel connector  181  and the handle body  110  and/or the spout  105  to prohibit leaking therebetween. The lower end  182 , the handle body  110  and/or the spout  105  may include a channel or other feature for receiving the O-ring  190   a . The base  113  of the handle body  110  may include a first supporting section (e.g., the first supporting section  217   a  shown in  FIG. 14 ) that supports the collar  180  and/or the O-ring  190   a . The first supporting section may have a smaller inner diameter relative to the adjacent section(s) of the base  113 . A top of the first supporting section may support a bottom of the collar  180  (if provided) and a top of the collar  180  may support the swivel connector  181 . 
     The faucet  100  may include additional seals (e.g., O-rings) to help prohibit leaking. As shown best in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , one or more O-rings  190   b  may be disposed between the sleeve  107  and the base  113  of the handle body  110  just below the bottom of the shoulder  114 ; an O-ring  190   c  may be disposed between the shoulder  114  of the handle body  110  and the second valve  142 ; and one or more O-rings  190   d  may be disposed between the first sleeve  106  and the second sleeve  107  and/or the valve connector  167 , such as proximate to the second valve  142 . The base  113  of the handle body  110  may include a second supporting section (see the second supporting section  217   b  shown in  FIG. 14 ) that has a smaller inner diameter relative to the adjacent section(s) of the base  113 , where the second supporting section may support an O-ring  190   b.    
     Also shown best in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the first sleeve  106  is disposed within the second sleeve  107 , which is disposed within the handle body  110 . Thus, the second sleeve  107  is located between the first sleeve  106  and the handle body  110 . This arrangement advantageously facilitates actuation of the first valve  141  even when supported by or located proximate to the base  102 , while supporting the spout  105 . For example, the first sleeve  106  is configured to rotate relative to the second sleeve  107 , such as when adjusting (e.g., setting) the temperature of water from the faucet. 
     As shown best in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , the base  102  includes a housing  120 , a collar  121 , and a retainer  122 . The housing  120  is a generally cylindrical element extending between a bottom end  124  and a top end  125 . The top end  125  is open defining a bore  126  that extends toward the bottom end  124 . The bore  126  is configured to receive the first valve  141 , which is retained by the housing  120  (e.g., a sidewall, the bottom end  124 ). The bottom end  124  includes one or more apertures (e.g., openings, bores) configured to receive fluid conduits for introducing the hot water and the cold water. For example, the bottom end  124  may include a first aperture that receives a first fluid (e.g., hot water) conduit  93  and a second aperture that receives a second fluid (e.g., cold water) conduit  94  (see  FIG. 14  for reference). 
     The retainer  122  includes a sidewall extending between a bottom end and a top end. The retainer  122  may include an outwardly extending annular flange (e.g., radially extending) from the sidewall, such as at the top end. The flange may include one or more holes that receive fasteners that secure the flange to the housing. The retainer  122  may include an inwardly extending flange, such as located at the bottom end, with an inner diameter that is smaller than the adjacent section(s) of the retainer  122 . The lower flange may advantageously help retain the first valve  141  by prohibiting the first valve  141  to be withdrawn from the open end of the housing  120  (e.g., during assembly) and/or may help secure the second sleeve  107  to the base  102 . According to other examples, the retainer does not include flanges and the sidewall retains the first valve  141  in place. 
     A retaining member may be configured to secure the second sleeve  107  to the retainer  122  and/or another element of the facet  100 , such as by engaging a groove in the second sleeve  107  and/or in the retainer  122  (e.g., the bottom end) such as to prohibit the sleeve  107  and retaining member from being withdrawn (e.g., moved upward) relative to the retainer  122 . The retaining member  131  may be a snap-ring having an annular shaped body with a notch (e.g., break) through the body to allow the member to flex into and out of engagement with the sleeve  107  and/or the retainer  122 , may be a C-clip, or may have any suitable configuration. 
     The collar  121  is may be a cylindrical member to support the second sleeve  107 . The collar  121  may be a cylindrical bushing to facilitate relative rotation between the second sleeve  107  and the handle body  110  and/or the base  102  (e.g., the retainer  122 ). The collar  121  may contact a portion of the outer surface of the second sleeve  107  and/or a portion of the inner surface of the sidewall of the handle body  110  and/or the base  102 . The second sleeve  107 , the handle body  110 , and/or the base  102  may include a channel (e.g., a groove, a recess) having a smaller diameter than the adjacent section(s) that receives the collar  121 . 
     The base  102  may include an escutcheon  133  that covers the base  102  to provide improved aesthetics of the faucet  100  when mounted (e.g., coupled, secured, etc.) to the support  90 . The escutcheon  133  may include a top wall  133   a , a first sidewall  133   b  (e.g., an inside sidewall), and a second sidewall  133   c  (e.g., an outside sidewall) that define a cavity (e.g., below the top wall  133   a  and between the sidewalls) that may house other elements/components of the base  102 . For example, a portion of the housing  120  may be housed in the cavity to conceal the housed elements from view when the faucet  100  is installed to the support  90 . The first sidewall  133   b  may be configured to engage and/or be coupled to the housing  120 . For example, the first sidewall  133   b  may include external threads that thread to mating internal threads of the housing  120  (e.g., at the top end  125 ). The first valve  141  may be retained in the bore  126  after the escutcheon  133  and the housing  120  are coupled together. 
     The base  102  may include a grommet  134  that is configured to rest on the mounting surface  91  of the support  90 . The grommet  134  may be annular in shape and may be made out of an elastomeric material that is compressible to seal the connection between the support  90  and the grommet  134 . During fastening of the base  102  to the support  90 , the grommet  134  may be compressed. For example, the grommet  134  may engage a recess in an underside of the to end  125  of the housing  120 . 
     The faucet  100  may include a fastening system  108  to secure the base  102  (e.g., one or more elements/components thereof) in place. For example, the fastening system  108  may secure the housing  120  in place to the support  90 . As shown best in  FIG. 4 , the fastening system  108  includes a clamp plate  185 , a lock plate  186  and a fastener  187  to adjustably move the clamp plate  185  relative to the lock plate  186 . For example, the fastening system  108  may include a plurality of fasteners  187 , such as two fasteners  180  on opposite sides of system. 
     The clamp plate  185  is an annular plate having a top surface that is configured to contact a bottom surface of the member being clamped (e.g., the support  90 ). The clamp plate  185  also includes a bottom surface that is configured to be contacted by each fastener  187 , such as an end thereof. The clamp plate  185  includes a central opening that is configured to receive the housing  120  to allow the clamp plate  185  to be slid over the housing  120  to contact the support  90 . 
     The lock plate  186  is annular in shape. The lock plate  186  may include internal threads that thread to mating external threads of the housing  120  and/or the escutcheon  133  (e.g., the sidewall  133   b ) to allow the lock plate  186  to be screwed onto the housing  120 /escutcheon  133  to secure the lock plate  186  in place relative to the housing  120 /escutcheon  133 . The threads may be provided on a portion of the housing  120  so that the lock plate  186  can be screwed down all the way (i.e., until reaching the non-threaded portion). In this way the non-threaded portion acts as a travel stop to the lock plate  186 . The lock plate  186  includes a threaded opening in the annular portion for each fastener  187 . 
     Each fastener  187  is threaded into one of the threaded openings of the lock plate  187  until contacting the clamp plate  185 , then further rotation of the fastener  187  moves the clamp plate  185  away from the lock plate  186  through the movement of the end of the fastener  187 . In this way, rotating each fastener  187  can move the clamp plate  185  toward the underside of the support  90  until the clamp plate  185  contacts the support  90 , upon which further rotation (e.g., tightening) of the fastener  187  applies a clamping force into the support  90  by the clamp plate  185 . The fastening system  108  advantageously allows for the faucet  100  to be secured to different thickness supports  90 . 
     The fastening system  108  may include other elements/components. For example, an intermediate plate  188  (e.g., second lock plate) may be provided. If provided, the intermediate plate  188  includes an annular member having a threaded opening through the annular member for each fastener  187 . A fastener  187  can be threaded through the threaded opening in the intermediate plate  188  to contact the clamp plate  185 . 
       FIGS. 6-17  illustrate another exemplary embodiment of a faucet  200  that provides for multi-directional control of water temperature and flow rate about two separate axes. As shown in  FIG. 6 , the faucet  200  includes a handle assembly  201  that provides a multi-directional control of temperature and flow rate of water to a spout  205  of the faucet  200 . The faucet  200  also includes a base  202  (e.g., base assembly) and a valve assembly  204 . Like the base  102  shown in  FIG. 1 , the base  202  is configured to mount to a support  90  to secure the faucet  200  to the support  90 . 
     The handle assembly  201  includes a handle body  210  and a handle  211 . The handle  211  is rotatable about a first axis of rotation (e.g., a radial axis RA) relative to the handle body  210  to control the flow rate of water. The handle body  210  is rotatable about a second axis of rotation (e.g., a longitudinal axis LA) relative to the base  202  to control the temperature of water. The handle  211  rotates with the handle body  210  about the second axis of rotation. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first and second axes of rotation are arranged to be not collinear. For example, the first and second axes of rotation may be arranged to be transverse, such as perpendicular or at an oblique angle relative to one another. The first and second axes of rotation may be arranged at a compound angle relative to one another. 
     Also shown in  FIG. 6 , the second axis of rotation (i.e., the longitudinal axis LA) of the handle body  210  extends vertically through a center of the handle body  210 . The longitudinal axis LA may be concentric with a center axis of the base  202 , the spout  205  or another component/element of the faucet  200 . The handle  211  and the handle body  210  are rotatable about the longitudinal axis LA by an angular rotation (e.g., the angular rotation a shown in  FIG. 3 ) between a first position, which corresponds to a maximum cold water temperature, and a second position, which corresponds to a maximum hot water temperature. For example, in the first position, the first valve  241  (see  FIGS. 11 and 12 ) may be configured with the cold water supply fully open and the hot water supply fully closed; while in the second position, the first valve  241  may be configured with the cold water supply fully closed and the hot water supply fully open. The handle assembly  201  can be repositioned in any number of intermediate positions located between the first and second positions, where each intermediate position corresponds to a different temperature setting (e.g., of the first valve  241 ). For example, as the handle assembly  101  is rotated from the first position toward the second position, the temperature progressively increases from the maximum cold temperature toward the maximum hot temperature. 
     As shown best in  FIG. 10 , the handle body  210  includes a base  213  and a shoulder  214 . The base  213  is a hollow member having a substantially cylindrical shape to receive other elements/components of the faucet  200 . The base  213  defines the longitudinal axis LA about which the handle body  210  rotates. As shown in  FIG. 9 , an outer profile of the base  213  of the handle body  210  is substantially the same as an outer profile of the spout  205 . This arrangement improves the aesthetics of the faucet  200  by providing a harmonious outer profile between the base  213  and the spout  205  with a more seamless appearance. 
     The shoulder  214  of the handle body  210  extends outwardly form the base  213  and is configured to support the handle  211  either directly or indirectly, such as through the second valve  242 . As shown best in  FIGS. 10 and 14 , the shoulder  214  is hollow member having a substantially cylindrical shape to receive other elements/components of the faucet  200 , such as the second valve  242 . An outer profile of the shoulder  214  may be substantially the same as an outer profile of the handle  211 . This arrangement improves the aesthetics of the faucet  200  by providing a harmonious outer profile between the shoulder  214  and the handle  211  with a more seamless appearance. 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , the first axis (i.e., the radial axis RA) of the handle  211  extends horizontally through a center of the handle  211 . For example, the handle  211  may be a substantially cylindrical member that extends outwardly from the handle body  210  (e.g., the shoulder  214 ) in the direction along the radial axis RA. Thus, the radial axis RA may be configured as a horizontal axis, such that handle  211  extends horizontally from the handle body  210 . The handle  211  may be open at an inner end having a chamber  216  (e.g., cavity) that receives the second valve  242  (e.g., at least a portion thereof). An outer end of the handle  211  may be closed. As noted, the outer profile of the handle  211  may complement (e.g., be the same as or substantially the same as) the outer profile of the shoulder  214  of the handle body  210 . 
     The spout  205  is a hollow member having a first end  251  (e.g., inlet end, entrance, etc.) fluidly connected to a second end  252  (e.g., outlet end, outlet, etc.) through a fluid passage  253 . As shown in  FIGS. 9 and 15 , the spout  205  is a generally U-shaped or J-shaped tubular element. The second end  252  may be configured to receive an element, such as an aerator  255 , sprayer or other device to influence the configuration (e.g., shape, pattern) of the water emitted from the second end  252  of the spout  205 . The first end  251  is configured to be coupled to another element of the faucet  200 , which is discussed below. 
     The valve assembly includes one or more valves. As shown best in  FIGS. 9, 11 and 14 , the valve assembly includes a first valve  241  and a second valve  242 . The first and second valves  241 ,  242  may have any suitable configuration based on disclosure provided herein. 
     The first valve  241  is fluidly connected to the hot and cold water supplies through the first and second fluid conduits  93 ,  94  (see  FIG. 14 ) and controls the outputted temperature of water based on the hot and cold water received. The first valve  241  is received in an element/component (e.g., housing) of the base  202 , which is discussed below. The first valve  241  can be adjusted, such as through an adjustment gear  243  ( FIGS. 9 and 11 ) to vary the temperature of water outputted from the first valve  241  through an output  244 . Upon rotation of the adjustment gear  243  in a first direction (e.g., clockwise, counterclockwise), the temperature of the outputted water is increased, whereas rotation of the adjustment gear  243  in a second direction that is opposite to the first direction decreases the temperature of the outputted water. The adjustment gear  243  may be rotatable relative to a casing  245  of the first valve  241 , and the casing  245  may be retained by the base  202  to prevent relative rotation of the casing  245  and base  202  ( FIG. 12 ). 
     The second valve  242  is fluidly connected to the outputted water from the first valve  241  and controls the flow rate of the outputted water to the spout  205 . The second valve  242  has a full open position, which corresponds to a maximum flow rate of water to the spout  205 , and a full closed position, which corresponds to a zero flow rate (i.e., no water flows to the spout  105 ). The second valve  242  may include any number of intermediate positions between the full open and full closed positions corresponding to various flow rates between the maximum and zero flow rates. The full open, full closed, and any intermediate positions of the second valve  242  are archived by rotation of the handle  211  relative to the handle body  210  (as shown in  FIG. 2 ). The handle  211  retains a first portion  272   a  of the second valve  242  such that rotation of the handle  211  drives rotation of the first portion  272   a  relative to a second portion  272   b  of the second valve  242 , which is retained by the shoulder  214  ( FIGS. 10 and 12 ). As shown, the first portion  272   a  includes splines that align with complementing splines in a cavity  216  of the handle  211  to drive rotation of the first portion  272   a  when the handle  211  is rotated. 
     The second valve  242  may include a valve member  248  that is configured to move (e.g., translate, rotate, etc.) between full open, full closed, and any intermediate positions relative to a valve chamber  249  upon rotation of the handle  211  (see  FIG. 16 ). The movement of the valve member  248  may be tied to the first portion  272   a  and the movement thereof. For example, rotation of the handle  211  in a first direction moves the valve member  248  to close off the valve chamber  249  in the full closed position to prevent water from flowing to the spout  205 , whereas rotation of the handle  211  is a second direction (that is opposite to the first direction) moves the valve member  148  to open the valve chamber  249  to increase the flow rate to the spout  205  (e.g., maximize the flow rate to the spout  205  in the full open position). The valve member  248  may be part of or driven by a third portion  272   c  of the second valve  242  (see  FIG. 10 ). The third portion  272   c  may have an outer end that is driven to rotation by the first portion  272   a  and an inner end that passes through the second portion  272   b . A lock ring  272   d  may be used to retain the second valve  242  together and/or to the shoulder  214 . For example, the lock ring  272   d  may retain the second portion  272   b  to the shoulder  214 . A fastener  272   e  may be used to secure the first and third portions  272   a ,  272   c  together and/or one of the portions to the handle  211 . 
     The faucet  200  includes one or more sleeves. As shown best in  FIGS. 10 and 14 , the faucet  200  includes a sleeve  206  (e.g., a first sleeve, a rotatable sleeve, etc.) that is configured to control the first valve  241  upon rotation. The sleeve  206  is configured to rotate with the handle body  210  about the longitudinal axis LA to control the first valve  241  and the water temperature. The sleeve  206  includes a hollow tubular member  260  defining an internal fluid passage  261  that fluidly connects the first valve  241  and the second valve  242 . The sleeve  206  may include a torque connection  262  to rotate a mating torque connection of the first valve  241  (e.g., the adjustment gear  243 ) upon rotation of the sleeve  206  to adjust a temperature of the water from the first valve  241  to the second valve  242 . As shown, the torque connection  262  is disposed at a first end  263  (e.g., bottom end, lower end, etc.) of the sleeve  206 . The torque connection  262  may include a gear, a spline, a key-way feature (i.e., a feature having a shape that is configured to transmit torque) such as a star shape, square shape, “D” shape, “double D” shape or other suitable shape, or any other suitable torque transmission feature. The sleeve  206  includes an outlet  266  that is fluidly connected to the spout  205 . As shown, the outlet  266  is in a second end  264  (e.g., top end, upper end, etc.) of the sleeve  206 . The sleeve  206  may include an inlet opening  265  that is configured to receive a portion of the second valve  242  to control the flow rate of the water to the spout  205  upon rotation of the handle  211  and at least a portion of the second valve  242  (e.g., the first portion  272   a ) about the radial axis RA relative to the sleeve  206 . As shown, the inlet opening  265  extends transversely through the tubular member  260  of the sleeve  206  at a location that is between the first and second ends  263 ,  264 . The size of the inlet opening  265  can be tailored to the size of the second valve  242 . 
     Also shown best in  FIGS. 10 and 14 , the faucet  200  includes a sleeve  107  (e.g., a support sleeve, a second sleeve, etc.) that is coupled to the base  202 . According to one example, the sleeve  107  is configured to remain stationary with the base  202  upon relative rotation of the sleeve  206  and the handle body  210 . According to another example, the sleeve  107  is coupled to the base  202 , such as to prohibit movement along the longitudinal axis LA while allowing rotation of the sleeve  207  (e.g., relative to the base  202  and/or the sleeve  206 ). The sleeve  207  is configured to support the spout  205 , such that the handle body  210  and the spout  205  can rotate relative to one another. As shown in  FIG. 10 , the sleeve  207  includes a hollow tubular member  270  defining an internal passage  271  ( FIG. 12 ) in which the sleeve  206  is disposed. The tubular member  270  of the sleeve  207  extends from a first end  273  (e.g., bottom end, lower end, etc.) to a second end  274  (e.g., top end, upper end, etc.). As shown best in  FIGS. 14 and 15 , the first end  273  is configured to be coupled to and supported by the base  202 , which is discussed below; and the second end  274  is configured to support the spout  205 . The sleeve  207  may include an aperture  275  that is located between the first and second ends  273 ,  274  and is configured to receive the portion of the second valve  242  that is received by the inlet opening  265  of the sleeve  206 . As shown in  FIG. 10 , the aperture  275  is elongated (e.g., slotted) to allow the second valve  242  to rotate relative to the sleeve  207  (if configured to be stationary) upon relative rotation of the sleeve  206  and the second valve  242  coupled thereto. Thus, the configuration (e.g., size, shape, etc.) of the aperture  275  in the sleeve  207  may be configured to allow for rotation of the handle body  210 , the sleeve  206 , and the second valve  242  between the maximum cold temperature and the maximum hot temperature. 
     The faucet  200  may include a swivel joint that allows for the relative rotation between the spout  205  and the sleeve  207  and/or the handle body  210 . As shown in  FIG. 12 , the swivel joint includes a swivel connector  281  that includes a lower end  282 , which engages an upper end of the sleeve  207  and/or an upper end of the handle body  210 , and an upper end  283 , which engages a lower end (e.g., the first end  251 ) of the spout  205 , such as to allow the spout  205  to rotate relative to the sleeve  207  and/or the sleeve  206  to reposition the outlet in the spout  205 . The swivel connector  281  may be a generally cylindrical element having a bore (e.g., through the center) to allow fluid (e.g., water from the second valve  242 ) to pass into the fluid passage  253  of the spout  205 . The first end  251  of the spout  205  may include an undercut section (e.g., a section having a thinner wall relative to the adjacent wall) that receives the upper end  283  of the swivel connector  281 . The lower end  282  of the swivel connector  281  may be coupled (e.g., fixedly, rotatably) to the (stationary) sleeve  207  and/or the handle body  210 . For example, the lower end  282  may be coupled to the second end  274  of the sleeve  207 . Also, for example, the lower end  282  may be rotatably received in the handle body  210 . 
     The swivel joint may include a collar  280  that is disposed between a portion of the handle body  210  and a portion of the swivel connector  281  to allow relative rotation between the swivel connector  281  and the handle body  210 . The collar  280  may be a cylindrical bushing to facilitate the relative rotation. The lower end  282  of the swivel connector  281  may include a channel (e.g., a recess having a smaller diameter than the adjacent section(s)) that receives the collar  280 . The configuration (e.g., depth, length, etc.) of the channel may be tailored to the configuration of the collar  280 . 
     A seal in the form an O-ring  290   a  may be disposed between the lower end  282  of the swivel connector  281  and the handle body  210  to prohibit leaking therebetween. One or both of the lower end  282  and the handle body  210  may include a channel or other feature for receiving the O-ring  290   a . As shown in  FIGS. 14 and 14A , the base  213  of the handle body  210  includes a first supporting section  217   a  that supports the collar  280  and the O-ring  290   a . The first supporting section  217   a  has a smaller inner diameter relative to the adjacent section(s) of the base  213 . A top of the first supporting section  217   a  may support a bottom of the collar  280  (if provided) and a top of the collar  280  may support the upper end  283  of the swivel connector  281 . 
     The faucet  200  may include additional seals (e.g., O-rings) to help prohibit leaking. As shown best in  FIGS. 14 and 15 , an O-ring  290   b  may be disposed between the sleeve  207  and the base  213  of the handle body  210  just below the bottom of the shoulder  214 ; an O-ring  290   c  may be disposed between the shoulder  214  of the handle body  210  and the second valve  242 ; and an O-ring  290   d  may be disposed between the sleeve  206  and the sleeve  207  proximate to the second valve  242 . The base  213  of the handle body  210  may include a second supporting section  217   b  that has a smaller inner diameter relative to the adjacent section(s) of the base  213 , where the second supporting section  217   b  supports the O-ring  290   b . As shown best in  FIG. 10 , an O-ring  290   e  may be configured to seal between the escutcheon  233  and the support bushing  232 ; and an O-ring  290   f  may be configured to seal between the retainer  222  and the second sleeve  207 . Further, as shown best in  FIG. 11 , an O-ring  293  may be configured to seal between the escutcheon  233  and the housing  220 . 
     Also shown best in  FIGS. 14 and 15 , the sleeve  106  is disposed within the sleeve  207 , which is disposed within the handle body  210 . Thus, the sleeve  207  is located between the sleeve  206  and the handle body  210 . This arrangement advantageously facilitates actuation of the first valve  241  even when supported by or located proximate to the base  202 , while supporting the spout  205 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 9 and 13-15 , the base  202  includes a housing  220 , a collar  221 , and a retainer  222 . The housing  220  is a generally cylindrical element having extending between a bottom end  224  and a top end  225 . The top end  225  is open defining a bore  226  that extends toward the bottom end  224 . The bore  226  is configured to receive the first valve  241 , which is retained by the housing  220  (e.g., a sidewall, the bottom end  224 ). The top end  225  includes an annular shoulder  227  that extends outward around the bore  226 . The bottom end  224  includes one or more apertures (e.g., openings, bores) configured to receive fluid conduits for introducing the hot water and the cold water. As shown in  FIG. 14 , a first aperture  228   a  in the bottom end  224  is configured to receive a first fluid (e.g., hot water) conduit  93 , and a second aperture  228   b  in the bottom end  224  is configured to receive a second fluid (e.g., cold water) conduit  94 . 
     The retainer  222  includes a sidewall  222   a  extending between a bottom end  222   b  and a top end  222   c  (see  FIGS. 13-15 ). An annular flange  222   d  extends outwardly (e.g., radially) from the sidewall  222   a  at the top end  222   c . The flange  222   d  includes one or more holes  222   e , where each hole  222   e  receives a fastener  230  that secures the flange  222   d  to the shoulder  227  of the housing  220 . Thus, the retainer  222  is coupled to the housing  220  through the fastener(s)  230 . An inwardly extending flange  222   f  may be located at the bottom end  222   b  such that the inner diameter of the flange  222   f  is smaller than the adjacent section(s) of the retainer  222 . The flange  222   f  may advantageously help retain the first valve  241  by prohibiting the first valve  241  to be withdrawn from the open end of the housing  220  (e.g., during assembly) and/or may help secure the sleeve  207  to the base  202 . 
     As shown best in  FIGS. 14 and 14B , a retaining member  231  is configured to secure the sleeve  207  to the retainer  222  by engaging a first groove  276  in the sleeve  207 . The retaining member  231  may engage the end of the retainer  222  (e.g., the bottom end  222   b ) such as to prohibit the sleeve  207  and retaining member  231  from being withdrawn (e.g., moved upward) relative to the retainer  222 . The retaining member  231  may engage a complementing groove in the retainer  222  (e.g., the flange  222   f ). The retaining member  231  may be a snap-ring having an annular shaped body with a notch (e.g., break) through the body to allow the member to flex into and out of engagement with the sleeve  207  and/or the retainer  222 , may be a C-clip or may have any suitable configuration. 
     The collar  221  is may be a cylindrical member to support the second sleeve  207 . The collar  221  may be a cylindrical bushing to facilitate relative rotation between the sleeve  207  and the retainer  222 . The collar  221  may contact a portion of the outer surface of the sleeve  207  and/or a portion of the inner surface of the sidewall  222   a  of the retainer  222 . The sleeve  207  and/or the retainer  222  may include a channel (e.g., a groove, a recess) having a smaller diameter than the adjacent section(s) that receives the collar  221 . 
     The base  202  may include a support bushing  232  that supports and allows rotation of the handle body  210  relative to the base  202  (see  FIG. 14 ). The support bushing  232  may include a base that is supported by the retainer  222 . For example, the retainer  222  may include a counterbore that defines a shoulder on which the base of the support bushing  232  rests. A top part of the support bushing  232  may extend up from the base to define a shoulder on which the bottom of the base  213  of the handle body  210  rests. Thus, the handle body  210  may be rotatable about the support bushing  232 . An inside of the support bushing  232  may engage (e.g., contact) or be adjacent to the sleeve  207 . 
     The base  202  may include an escutcheon  233  that covers the base  202  to provide improved aesthetics of the faucet  200  when mounted (e.g., coupled, secured, etc.) to the support  90 . The escutcheon  233  may include a top wall  233   a  and a sidewall  233   b  that define a cavity below the top wall  233   a  and inside the sidewall  233   b  (see  FIG. 14 ). This cavity may house other elements/components of the base  202 . For example, the flange  222   d  of the retainer  222  and top end  225  of the housing  220  are housed in the cavity, such that the top wall  233   a  and the sidewall  233   b  of the escutcheon  233  conceal the housed elements from view when the faucet  200  is installed to the support  90 . 
     The base  202  may include a support  291 , as shown in  FIG. 11 . The support  291  may engage the cavity of the housing  220  (which holds the first valve  241 ) to retain the first valve  241  in the cavity and/or support other elements/components of the faucet  200 . For example, the support  291  may be configured to support one or more of the sleeves  106 ,  107 . The support  291  may be configured to lock the position of the first valve  241 , such as by retaining the casing  245  in place inside the housing  220 . The first valve  241  can be placed in and indexed to the housing  220 , then the support  291  may be screwed tight to another component of the system (e.g., the housing  220 ). 
     The base  202  may include a grommet  234  that is configured to rest on the mounting surface  91  of the support  90 . The grommet  234  may be annular in shape and may be made out of an elastomeric material that is compressible to seal the connection between the support  90  and the grommet  234 . During fastening of the base  202  to the support  90 , the grommet  234  may be compressed. For example, the grommet  234  may engage a recess in an underside of the to end  225  of the housing  220 . 
     The faucet  200  may include a fastening system  208  to secure the base  202  (e.g., one or more elements/components thereof) in place. For example, the fastening system  208  may secure the housing  220  in place to the support  90 . As shown best in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the fastening system  208  includes a clamp plate  285 , a lock plate  286  and a fastener  287  to adjustably move the clamp plate  285  relative to the lock plate  286 . For example, the fastening system  208  may include a plurality of fasteners  287 , such as two fasteners  280  on opposite sides of system. 
     The clamp plate  285  is an annular plate having a top surface that is configured to contact a bottom surface of the member being clamped (e.g., the support  90 ). The clamp plate  285  also includes a bottom surface that is configured to be contacted by each fastener  287 , such as an end thereof. The clamp plate  285  includes a central opening that is configured to receive the housing  220  to allow the clamp plate  285  to be slid over the housing  220  to contact the support  90 . 
     The lock plate  286  is an annular plate having internal threads that thread to mating external threads of the housing  220  to allow the lock plate  286  to be screwed onto the housing  220  to secure the lock plate  286  in place relative to the housing  220 . The threads may be provided on a portion of the housing  220  so that the lock plate  286  can be screwed down all the way (i.e., until reaching the non-threaded portion). In this way the non-threaded portion acts as a travel stop to the lock plate  286 . The lock plate  286  includes a threaded opening in the annular portion for each fastener  287 . 
     Each fastener  287  is threaded into one of the threaded openings of the lock plate  287  until contacting the clamp plate  285 , then further rotation of the fastener  287  moves the clamp plate  285  away from the lock plate  286  through the movement of the end of the fastener  287 . In this way, rotating each fastener  287  can move the clamp plate  285  toward the underside of the support  90  until the clamp plate  285  contacts the support  90 , upon which further rotation (e.g., tightening) of the fastener  287  applies a clamping force into the support  90  by the clamp plate  285 . The fastening system  208  advantageously allows for the faucet  200  to be secured to different thickness supports  90 . 
     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. 
     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. 
     The construction and arrangement of the elements of the faucets as shown in the exemplary embodiments are illustrative only. Although only a few embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, 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 recited. 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. 
     Additionally, the word “exemplary” is used to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. Any embodiment or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or designs (and such term is not intended to connote that such embodiments are necessarily extraordinary or superlative examples). Rather, use of the word “exemplary” is intended to present concepts in a concrete manner. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims. 
     Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may also be made in the design, operating conditions and arrangement of the various exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, any element (e.g., spout, handle body, handle, sleeve(s), base, valve, etc.) disclosed in one embodiment may be incorporated or utilized with any other embodiment disclosed herein. Also, for example, the order or sequence of any process or method steps may be varied or re-sequenced according to alternative embodiments. Any means-plus-function clause is intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures. Other substitutions, modifications, changes and omissions may be made in the design, operating configuration, and arrangement of the preferred and other exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the appended claims.