Patent Publication Number: US-2023139571-A1

Title: Water Filtration System and Method

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/786,477 filed on Oct. 17, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/316,386 filed on Jun. 26, 2014, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/839,747 filed on Jun. 26, 2013. The contents of the foregoing applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Water filtration systems are frequently used in a variety of settings including residential and commercial applications in which the systems are designed to remove contaminants and other impurities from the water supply to provide filtered water. To that end, water quality varies drastically globally and requires unique filtration parameters tailored to the specific properties of the water being filtered and the desired level of filtration required by the end user. 
     Water filtration systems usually include a filter cartridge coupled to a manifold, which are usually installed in any number of locations in the water supply line. For example, a water filtration system may be installed in a refrigerator in communication with a built-in water dispenser. Additionally, a water filtration system may be installed under a countertop that supports a sink and/or faucet. Alternatively, or in addition to, a water filtration system may be employed on the faucet itself. Finally, other types of water filtration systems may be utilized at some other point in the water supply between the main water line that supplies water from a municipal or city water source to the end dispensing point (e.g., a faucet, water dispenser, etc.). 
     In many instances, water filtration systems utilize a changeable and disposable filter cartridge when the filter cartridge has reached the end of its operable life. At this point, the filter cartridge must be disengaged from the system and replaced with a new filter cartridge. The entire used filter cartridge is disposed of after the new filter cartridge has been installed. 
     There are many obstacles associated with some existing water filtration systems and the cartridge removal and replacement process. For example, many filter cartridges engage with the system via a vertical engagement mechanism, whereby the filter cartridge must be pulled downwardly with respect to the manifold to remove the filter cartridge. Vertical disengagement is problematic in many instances due to clearance and space constraints within the refrigerator, under the sink, or in other confined areas, which makes the filter replacement procedure difficult. Additionally, the disposal of the entire spent filter cartridge is also undesirable due to the increased cost to the consumer purchasing the filter cartridge and because of the harm caused to the environment due to the increase in waste. 
     Some water filtration systems have attempted to address these deficiencies by providing a reusable cartridge. However, these cartridges frequently include one or more portions that are fixed to the manifold, which decreases the ease of media replacement in the filter cartridge and increases water spillage. In particular, a cartridge head is frequently joined to the manifold with the filter cartridge being threadingly engaged to the cartridge head. In this instance, the person changing the cartridge must disengage the filter cartridge by rotating the cartridge and removing it from the cartridge head. The disengagement at the point of attachment between the cartridge head and the filter cartridge is inconvenient due to space constraints and leads to more spillage during the replacement procedure due to leakage at the point of disengagement. 
     One known water filtration system provides a filtering device that includes a cartridge head permanently installed in a fluid dispensing machine and a corresponding disposable canister. A central chamber is formed in the cartridge head, and the chamber is in communication with an inlet port and an outlet port for receiving an unfiltered liquid and supplying a filtered liquid, respectively. The disposable canister has a flask shaped main body with a flat top and a neck of substantially uniform diameter on the top. The neck of the disposable canister is configured to vertically engage the central chamber of the cartridge head. A pair of tab receptacles are provided on the cartridge head and a complementary pair of tabs on the canister are engageable with one another by ¼ rotation of the canister to lock the canister to the cartridge head. Thus, once the disposable canister is spent, both a rotational and vertical disengagement mechanism are required to unlock and separate the canister from the cartridge head, which is not desirable for water filtration systems located in constrained spaces. In addition, the entire canister is disposable causing increased environmental waste. 
     Another system provides a filtering system for water treatment including a head member having inlet and outlet ports and a replaceable, disposable filter cartridge for insertion into the head member. The filter cartridge includes a dual lug retaining system for retaining the filter cartridge in the head member. The lugs are formed with a tapered end to assist in rotating the cartridge approximately 90 degrees to a secured position in the head member. The filter system provides insertion of the filter cartridge into the head member via a rotational and vertical disengagement mechanism. Additionally, the filter cartridge unit is designed as a unitary disposable unit. 
     In yet another system, a disposable separation module is disclosed that is capable of connecting to a fluid processing system in a quick-connect fashion. The module includes a housing containing a separation element with a plurality of fluid connectors on one end of the housing that are parallel to and exclusive of each other. This arrangement provides for vertical engagement and sealing of the fluid connectors to corresponding mating connectors on the fluid processing system. To replace the disposable filtration module, a handle must be pulled in a direction that is perpendicular to the direction of motion required for engaging the fluid connectors to the mating connectors to unlock the filtration module from the manifold. Thus, in order to insert and remove the filtration module to and from the manifold block and receptor, the user is required to perform a complex set of engagement and disengagement maneuvers. 
     There is a continuing need for water filtration systems that are capable of filtering water at the desired levels, take up less space, are quick and simple to maintain, and contribute less to environmental waste. There is also a need for a simplified engagement mechanism between the manifold and filter cartridge for use in a water filtration system that maintains a tight seal during use, but allows easy disengagement to change out the replaceable filter cartridge. 
     There is a further need to provide a modular water filtration system that can easily be adjusted through engagement mechanisms that allow numerous filter manifolds to be joined together to form multi-stage filtration systems. The modular systems are particularly useful in situations where the desired level of filtration is variable and/or may need to be adjusted depending on the water source and the needs of the end user. 
     SUMMARY 
     The disclosure relates generally to a water filtration system, and more specifically to a water filtration system that includes a modular setup that allows numerous filter manifolds to be easily attached together to form a multi-stage filtration system. The water filtration system includes an engagement mechanism between the filter manifold and the filter cartridge that allows the cartridge to be engaged in the manifold via a horizontal force. The water filtration system further allows filtration media to be easily and conveniently removed from the filter cartridge via a removable cap located at a terminal end of a sump that holds the filtration media. 
     The water filtration system reduces the time, effort, and expense necessary to install and maintain the water filtration system. The simplified engagement mechanism maintains a tight seal and utilizes a check valve to control fluid flowing through the system during operation, while at the same time allowing for easy disengagement when the filter cartridge is removed from the filter manifold. Additionally, providing a reusable filter cartridge that allows replacement of the filtration media from a lower end is more convenient and reduces environmental waste and expense associated with the system. 
     Some embodiments of the disclosure provide a water filtration system that includes a filter cartridge designed to be inserted into a filter manifold using horizontal force. The filter cartridge further includes a locking surface that engages tracks in the filter manifold to secure the filter cartridge in a releasable manner. 
     Some other embodiments of the disclosure provide a water filtration system that includes a filter manifold having a rotatable cover. A filter cartridge is provided that includes a sump having a filter head integrally secured to a first end, and a cap releasably secured to a second end. An engagement mechanism extending from the cover locks into the filter manifold to position the cartridge in an “in-use” state. The filter cartridge further includes two offset cylindrical inlet and outlet members protruding from the filter head that are designed to engage corresponding inlet and outlets of the filter manifold. A check valve is positioned within the filter manifold adjacent the inlet of the filter cartridge to control fluid flow through the water filtration system. 
     In one aspect, a modular water filtration system including a filter manifold and a filter cartridge is provided. The filter manifold includes a body, a first arm member, a second arm member, a brace, and a slot positioned on the brace. The filter cartridge includes a cartridge head and a fin member protruding upwardly from the cartridge head, and the fin member is sized to be received within the slot of the filter manifold. The filter cartridge is adapted to engage the filter manifold through a horizontal force when the fin member is aligned with the slot. 
     In some embodiments, the filter cartridge further includes an inlet tube and an outlet tube protruding horizontally from the cartridge head, and the fin member extends at least partially above the inlet tube and the outlet tube. The fin member is positioned and located between the inlet tube and the outlet tube, or adjacent to the outlet tube and a first outer edge of the cartridge head, or adjacent to the inlet tube and a second outer edge of the cartridge head. 
     In other embodiments, the slot is positioned and located between the first arm member and the second arm member. 
     In some embodiments, the first arm member and the second arm member define a receiving section of the filter manifold. The receiving section is adapted to receive the cartridge head of the filtration cartridge. 
     In yet other embodiments, the fin member is provided as a substantially rectangularly-shaped prism and the slot is provided as a substantially rectangularly-shaped recess. 
     In some embodiments, the brace of the filter manifold further includes channels disposed thereon, and the slot is provided within the channels. 
     In another aspect, a modular water filtration system comprising a first filter manifold and a filter cartridge is provided. The first filter manifold includes a housing, a first slot member extending in a substantially horizontal direction that is positioned and located within the housing, and a cover rotatably coupled to the housing. The cover includes locking ribs that protrude horizontally and inwardly from a body of the cover. The filter cartridge includes a cartridge head and a first fin protruding upwardly from the cartridge head. The shape of the first fin corresponds to the shape of the first slot member such that the first fin can be received in the first slot member. The filter cartridge is adapted to engage the first filter manifold via a horizontal force when the first fin is aligned with the first slot member. The cover engages the cartridge head as the cartridge head moves towards the housing of the first filter manifold and the locking ribs lock the filter cartridge to the first filter manifold. 
     In some embodiments, the filter cartridge further includes catch members that protrude upwardly from a surface of the cartridge head, and the catch members engage the locking ribs when the filter cartridge is received in the first filter manifold. 
     In other embodiments, the cartridge head of the filter cartridge further includes a second fin and the housing of the first filter manifold further includes a second slot member. In such embodiments, the filter cartridge is adapted to engage the first filter manifold via the horizontal force when the second fin is aligned with the second slot member. 
     In yet other embodiments, the housing of the first filter manifold further includes two members extending outwardly and horizontally away from the housing. The two members define a receiving area. A plurality of channels is positioned and located between the two members and within the receiving area. In some such embodiments, the cartridge head of the filter cartridge further includes a second fin and the housing of the first filter manifold further includes a second slot member. The first slot member is disposed within a first channel of the plurality of channels and the second slot member is disposed within a second channel of the plurality of channels. Further, at least one additional channel of the plurality of channels is positioned and located between the first channel and the second channel. 
     In some embodiments, the housing of the first filter manifold further includes a plurality of channels extending horizontally within the housing, and the first slot member is disposed in a first channel of the plurality of channels. 
     In other embodiments, a second filter manifold is provided, and the first filter manifold is in fluid communication with the second filter manifold. 
     In yet another aspect, a modular water filtration system including a filtration manifold and a filtration cartridge is provided. The filtration manifold includes a housing having a body extending in a first direction, and a first elongated member and a second elongated member extending outwardly from the body in a second direction. The first elongated member and the second elongated member define a receiving area of the housing therebetween. The filtration manifold further includes an inlet and an outlet positioned and located within the receiving area, the inlet and the outlet extending from the housing substantially in the second direction. A plurality of channels is positioned and located proximate to the inlet and the outlet, and each channel of the plurality of channels extends substantially in the second direction away from the body of the housing and into the receiving area. A first channel of the plurality of channels includes a first slot extending into the channel substantially in the second direction and towards the housing. The filtration cartridge is designed to be received by the receiving area of the filter manifold when inserted into the filter manifold in substantially the second direction. 
     In some embodiments, the plurality of channels of the filter manifold further includes a second slot, and each channel of the plurality of channels are substantially parallel to each other. In some such embodiments, the first slot and the second slot are separated by at least one channel. 
     In other embodiments, the plurality of channels of the filter manifold includes a second slot and a third slot. The first, second, and third slots may be proximate to each other, or any of the first, second, and third slots may be separated by at least one channel. 
     In yet other embodiments, the filter cartridge further comprises at least one fin extending away from the filter cartridge in the second direction. A first fin of the at least one fin is received into the first slot when the filter cartridge is inserted into the receiving area. 
     In some embodiments, a brace extends from the first elongated member and towards the second elongated member in a third direction, and the plurality of channels is provided on the brace. 
     In other embodiments, the inlet and the outlet of the filter manifold are offset relative to each other in the first direction, and the filter cartridge is designed to couple to the inlet and the outlet. 
     These and other aspects of the disclosure will become apparent in light of the following detailed description. 
    
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is an isometric view of a water filtration system that includes a filter manifold having a housing and a cover, and a filter cartridge including a filter head, a sump, and a removable cap, according to one embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG.  2    is a left side elevational view of the water filtration system of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  3    is right side elevational view of the water filtration system of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  4    is a front elevational view of the water filtration system of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  5    is an isometric view of the housing of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  6    is a rear elevational view of the housing of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  7    is a side elevational view of the housing of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  8    is a top plan view of the housing of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  9    is a front elevational view of the housing of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  10    is a partial sectional, isometric view of the housing of  FIG.  1    taken substantially along line  10 - 10  of  FIG.  7   ; 
         FIG.  11    is an isometric view of a valve suitable for use with the water filtration system of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  12    is a different isometric view of the valve of  FIG.  11   ; 
         FIG.  13    is an isometric view of a cover member suitable for use with the valve of  FIG.  11   ; 
         FIG.  14    is an isometric view of the valve of  FIG.  11    in conjunction with the cover member of  FIG.  13   ; 
         FIG.  15    is a front isometric view of the cover of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  16    is a side elevational view of the cover of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  17    is a rear isometric view of the cover of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  18    is an isometric view of the filter cartridge of  FIG.  1    with the cap removed; 
         FIG.  19    is an isometric view of the filter cartridge of  FIG.  1    with the cap releasably attached to the sump; 
         FIG.  20    is an isometric view of the filter cartridge of  FIG.  1    with the cap removed; 
         FIG.  21    is a side elevational view of the filter cartridge of  FIG.  1    with the cap removed; 
         FIG.  22    is a front elevational view of the filter cartridge of  FIG.  1    with the cap removed; 
         FIG.  23    is an enlarged partial isometric view of the filter cartridge of  FIG.  1    with the cap removed; 
         FIG.  24    is a top plan view of the filter cartridge of  FIG.  1    with the cap removed; 
         FIG.  25    is a rear plan view of the filter cartridge of  FIG.  1    with the cap removed; 
         FIG.  26    is a top isometric view of the cap of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  27    is a bottom isometric view of the cap of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  28    is an exploded isometric view of a filter cartridge suitable for use with one type of filtration media; 
         FIG.  29    is an exploded isometric view of a filter cartridge suitable for use with another type of filtration media; 
         FIG.  30    is an exploded isometric view of a filter cartridge suitable for use with a different type of filtration media; 
         FIG.  31    is an exploded isometric view of the filter cartridge of  FIG.  1    disengaged from the filter manifold of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  32    an isometric view of the filter cartridge of  FIG.  1    engaged to the filter manifold of  FIG.  1   ; 
         FIG.  33    is a partial isometric view of the water filtration system of  FIG.  1    in an operational position; 
         FIG.  34    is a partial isometric view of the water filtration system of  FIG.  1    with the cover rotatably disengaged from the filter cartridge; 
         FIG.  35    is an isometric view of the water filtration system of  FIG.  1    in an operational position; 
         FIG.  36    is a partial cross-sectional view of the water filtration system of  FIG.  1    with the cover in an open position; 
         FIG.  37    is a partial cross-sectional view of the water filtration system of  FIG.  1    with the cover in an intermediate position; 
         FIG.  38    is a partial cross-sectional view of the water filtration system of  FIG.  1    with the cover in a closed position; 
         FIG.  39    is a partial schematic view of the water filtration system of  FIG.  1    with the cover of the housing disengaged from the filter cartridge; 
         FIG.  40    is partial schematic view of the water filtration system of  FIG.  1    with the cover of the housing releasably locked to the filter cartridge; 
         FIG.  41    is partial cross-sectional schematic view of the water filtration system of  FIG.  1    showing the filter cartridge engaged with the filter manifold and further including the valve of  FIG.  11    disposed within the filter manifold; 
         FIG.  42    is an isometric view of the filter cartridge of  FIG.  1    showing an inlet tube with a semicircular feature for activating water flow into the filter cartridge head; 
         FIG.  43    is a top isometric view of another embodiment of a filter manifold showing a slotted keying feature for engaging the filter cartridge head; 
         FIG.  44    is a side elevational view of the filter manifold of  FIG.  43   ; 
         FIG.  45    is a top isometric view of the filter cartridge head and the filter manifold showing the slotted keying feature in an unmatched position; 
         FIG.  46    is a top isometric view of the filter cartridge head and the filter manifold showing the slotted keying feature in a matched position prior to engagement; 
         FIG.  47    is a top isometric view of the filter cartridge head and the filter manifold showing the slotted keying feature in the matched position; 
         FIG.  48    is a side elevational view of another filter cartridge showing the filter cartridge head attached to the sump at one end and closed at an opposite end; 
         FIG.  49    is a cross sectional view of the filter cartridge of  FIG.  48   ; 
         FIG.  50    is an isometric view of another embodiment of a water filtration system including two filter cartridges coupled to two filter manifolds; 
         FIG.  51    is an isometric view of the filter manifolds of  FIG.  50   ; and 
         FIG.  52    is a partial cross-sectional schematic view of the water filtration system of  FIG.  50    showing one filter cartridge coupled to the second filter cartridge. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. Unless specified or limited otherwise, the terms “mounted,” “connected,” “supported,” and “coupled” and variations thereof are used broadly and encompass both direct and indirect mountings, connections, supports, and couplings. Further, “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings. 
     The following discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use embodiments of the disclosure. Various modifications to the illustrated embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein can be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from embodiments of the disclosure. Thus, embodiments of the disclosure are not intended to be limited to embodiments shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The following detailed description is to be read with reference to the figures, in which like elements in different figures have like reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of embodiments of the disclosure. Skilled artisans will recognize the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of embodiments of the disclosure. 
       FIGS.  1 - 4    illustrate a water filtration system  100  according to one embodiment of the disclosure. The water filtration system  100  is fluidly coupled to a water feed line (not shown) and/or a water supply line (not shown) and is designed to filter contaminates from the water supply. The water filtration system  100  includes a filter manifold  102  defined by a housing  104  in communication with a rotatable cover  106 . The filter manifold  102  is releasably coupled to a filter cartridge  108 . The filter cartridge  108  includes a sump  110  that includes a cartridge head  112  at one end and a removable cap  114  at an opposing end (see e.g.,  FIGS.  28 - 30   ). The filter cartridge  108  holds replaceable filtration media  116  (see  FIGS.  28 - 30   ) in an interior cavity. Contaminants and other impurities are removed as water flows through the filtration media  116  of the filter cartridge  108 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  5 - 10   , the housing  104  of the filter manifold  102  includes a bracket  120  having a rear surface  122  and a front surface  124  with two opposing arm members  126   a ,  126   b  protruding outwardly from the front surface  124 . The arm members  126  are joined by a brace  128  that extends between interior surfaces  130   a ,  130   b  of the arm members  126   a ,  126   b . The bracket  120 , arm members  126   a ,  126   b , and brace  128  collectively define an interior section  132 , which holds one or more internal components discussed below. 
     Still referring to  FIGS.  5 - 10   , the bracket  120  is formed by a substantially square body  134  that includes a plurality of holes  140  that extend through the body  134  from the rear surface  122  to the front surface  124 . The holes  140  are adapted to support one or more attachment components in the form of screws (not shown). The screws may be inserted through the holes  140  to secure the filter manifold  102  to a surface (not shown). In the embodiment depicted, three holes  140  are disposed adjacent a top edge of the body  134  and one hole  140  is disposed adjacent a bottom edge of the body  134 . An opening  142  (see  FIG.  6   ) is optionally provided through the rear surface  122  disposed adjacent the holes  140  that is in communication with one or more internal components of the filter manifold  102 . 
     The filter manifold  102  may be used in numerous settings and secured to a variety of surfaces. For example, the filter manifold  102  may be secured to a vertical wall under a sink adjacent the water feed line. In another instance, the filter manifold  102  may be secured to an interior portion of a refrigerator. In other instances, the filter manifold  102  is in fluid communication with the water feed line and may not be secured to any surfaces. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  5  and  7   , the arm members  126   a ,  126   b  protrude outwardly from opposing lateral edges of the front surface  124  of the bracket  120 . In the embodiment depicted, the arm members  126   a ,  126   b  are spaced slightly interiorly of the lateral edges of the bracket  120 . The arm members  126   a ,  126   b  each include a substantially L-shaped body  150   a ,  150   b  that each has interior surfaces  130   a ,  130   b  and opposing exterior surfaces  152 ,  152   a . The interior surface  130   a ,  130   b  is substantially smooth and the exterior surface  152   a ,  152   b  is defined by a raised flange  154   a ,  154   b  that circumscribes the perimeter of the body  150   a ,  150   b  to form a recess  156   a ,  156   b  therein. 
     Still referring to  FIGS.  5  and  7   , the structure of the raised flange  154   a ,  154   b  of each arm member  126   a ,  126   b  is the same, so only one flange  154  will be discussed for clarity, with the same structure labeled on both arm members  126   a ,  126   b . In particular, the raised flange  154  includes an upper section  156  that protrudes outwardly in a substantially horizontal orientation and terminates at a curved section  158 . The curved section  158  is slightly concave and terminates at a lower section  160  of the flange  154 . The lower section  160  of the flange  154  extends outwardly from the curved section  158  in a horizontal orientation that is similar to the orientation of the upper section  156 . The lower section  160  of the flange  154  terminates at a substantially vertical endwall  162 . The endwall  162  is in communication with a bottom section  164  that extends rearwardly at an incline until becoming substantially horizontal at a point  166  (see  FIG.  7   ) that is along an axis A defined by the point in which the curved section  158  intersects the lower section  160 . The intersection of the endwall  162  and the bottom section  164  define detents  168  designed to interact with the cover  106  of the filter manifold  102  when the cover  106  is in a locked position. 
     As shown in  FIG.  10   , the lower section  160  of the flange  154  is interrupted by an angled notch  170  that includes two opposing angled walls. The notch  170  is positioned vertically above the point  166  and adjacent the intersection of the curved section  158  and the lower section  160 . The notch  170  provides clearance for the cover  106  to rotate into an open position. The angled side wall to the left of the notch  170  prevents the cover  106  from over-rotation, whereas the angled side wall to the right of the notch  170  holds the cover  106  open during the filter cartridge  108  replacement procedure, but allows the cover  106  to be rotated into a closed position. 
     Referring again to  FIG.  5   , the arm member  126   a  further includes a circular duct  180  that extends through the body  150   a  and is surrounded by a substantially annular rib  182  that protrudes outwardly from the exterior surface  152   a  of the body  150   a . The circular duct  180  is designed to provide fluid communication between the filter manifold  102  and either other filter manifolds  102  (when more than one filtration stage is utilized), and/or with the water supply line. The arm member  126   a  also includes a racetrack shaped opening  184  disposed below the circular duct  180 . The racetrack shaped opening  184  extends through the body  150   a  and is surrounded by a similarly shaped rib  186  that protrudes outwardly from the exterior surface  152   a  of the body  150   a . The racetrack shaped opening  184  optionally acts as an alignment and engagement mechanism in conjunction with corresponding similarly shaped protrusions (discussed below) when more than one filter manifolds  102  are in communication with each other. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  6 - 8   , arm member  126   b  includes a cylindrical protrusion  190  that extends outwardly from the exterior surface  152   b  of the body  150   b . The cylindrical protrusion  190  defines a cylindrical bore  192  that provides fluid communication between the water feed line and the filter manifold  102  and/or between an adjacent filter manifold  102 . The arm member  126   b  further includes a racetrack shaped rib member  194  (see  FIG.  6   ) disposed below the cylindrical bore  192 . The racetrack shaped rib member  194  extends outwardly from the body  150   b  and is surrounded by a similarly shaped flange  196  that is adjacent the exterior surface  152   b  of the body  150   b . The racetrack shaped rib member  194  optionally acts as an alignment and engagement mechanism when more than one filter manifolds  102  are in communication with each other. In particular, the rib member  194  is designed to fit into the racetrack shaped opening  184 , and the cylindrical protrusion  190  is designed to extend into the duct  180  of an adjacent filter manifold  102  during multi-stage filtration. In some embodiments, one or more of the racetrack shaped openings/rib members  184 ,  194  are omitted and/or other engagement mechanisms and shapes are provided that assist in joining one or more filter manifolds  102 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  5  and  9   , the housing  104  of the filter manifold  102  further includes the brace  128  that mechanically joins the arm members  126   a ,  126   b . In some embodiments, the brace  128  is integrally formed with the arm members  126   a ,  126   b . Alternatively, the brace  128  may be joined to the arm members  126   a ,  126   b  by welding, or any suitable fastening technique. The brace  128  extends between interior surfaces  130   a ,  130   b  of the arm members  126   a ,  126   b  and divides the housing  104  into the interior (rear) section  132  and (front) receiving section  196 . 
     The brace  128  is defined by a substantially rectilinear wall  200  that has a front surface  202  and an opposing rear surface  204  (as shown in  FIG.  8   ). Two angled leg members  206  protrude downwardly on opposing sides of the wall  200 . An interior edge  212  of the leg members  206  and lower edge  214  of the rectilinear wall  200  are designed to receive portions of the filter cartridge  108 , as described below. 
     The wall  200  further includes two members  220  that extend outwardly from the front surface  202 . Each member  220  includes a body  222  that has a recess  224  formed in a lateral surface  226 . A circular projection  228  is disposed centrally in the recess  224  and protrudes outwardly before terminating at an angled end  230 . The members  220  are inset slightly from the arm members  126   a ,  126   b , as shown in  FIG.  8   . Lower surfaces  232  of the members  220  and upper surfaces  234  of the lower section  160  of the flange  154  form a track  236  (see  FIG.  7   ) designed to support and receive portions of the filter cartridge  108 , described in more detail below. 
     Turning again to  FIGS.  5 ,  9 , and  10   , the wall  200  of the brace  128  includes a cylindrical inlet orifice  250  disposed adjacent to a cylindrical outlet orifice  252 . The inlet and outlet orifices  250 ,  252  extend entirely through the wall  200  and are offset with respect to each other, whereby the inlet orifice  250  is disposed adjacent to the lower edge  214  of the rectilinear wall  200  and the outlet orifice  252  is disposed slightly above the inlet orifice  250 . The inlet and outlet orifice  250 ,  252  are designed to facilitate fluid flow into and out of the filter manifold  102 , respectively, from the filter cartridge  108 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  5 ,  8 , and  10   , the inlet orifice  250  is disposed in an end of a cylindrical housing  254  that extends between the rear surface  204  of the wall  200  of the brace  128  and to the front surface  124  of the bracket  120 . The inlet orifice  250  is in communication with an inlet chamber  260  that holds a valve  270  (as shown in  FIGS.  11 - 14   ). The inlet chamber  260  defines a fluid path through the filter manifold  102  that is depicted by the arrows “I” shown in  FIG.  10   . The fluid path is formed between the water feed line, the cylindrical bore  192  of the arm member  126   b  (as shown in  FIG.  7   ), and the inlet orifice  250 . 
     Now turning to  FIGS.  11 - 14   , the valve  270  is disposed within the inlet chamber  260  and is designed to control water flow through the filter manifold  102 . In one embodiment, the valve  270  includes a circular body  272  with four elongate ribs  274  extending downwardly from a lower surface  276  of the body  272 . The ribs  274  are joined to a smaller frustoconical wall  277  that includes a circular opening  278 . A cylindrical shaft  280  extends through the body  272  and through the opening  278 . The shaft  280  assists in opening and closing the fluid passageways through the valve  270  when axial force is applied to the shaft  280 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  13   , the valve  270  further includes a circular sealing member  282  designed to act as a compression surface for the shaft  280  of the valve  270 . The sealing member  282  includes a cylindrical body  284  with a cross-shaped member  286  defining a central intersection  288 . As shown in  FIG.  14   , the shaft  280  of the valve  270  is designed to contact the intersection  288  of the cross-shaped members  286  during use. When the valve body  272  is forced toward the sealing member  282 , the shaft  280  is axially displaced to open a fluid path. When the valve body  272  moves outwardly away from the sealing member  282 , the shaft  280  returns to the rest position and closes the fluid pathway. 
     In one embodiment, the valve  270  is a check valve or other valve designed to allow fluid flow in only one direction. For example, one suitable valve  270  is any of the check valves designed by Neoperl, Inc. In other embodiments, the valve  270  may be other types of valves suitable for use in the water filtration system  100 . 
     Turning again to  FIGS.  8 - 10   , the outlet orifice  252  is disposed in an end of a cylindrical housing  290  that extends between the rear surface  204  of the wall  200  of the brace  128  to the front surface  124  of the bracket  120 . The outlet orifice  252  is in communication with an outlet chamber  292  that defines an outlet fluid path through the filter manifold  102  that is depicted by the arrows O shown in  FIG.  10   . The fluid path is formed between the outlet orifice  252 , the outlet chamber  292 , and the circular duct  180  of the arm member  126   a.    
     Still referring to  FIG.  10   , the outlet chamber  292  includes an opening  294  that is in communication with the water supply line (not shown) that supplies water to the end user, and a secondary opening  298  that extends through a lower surface  296  of the housing  290 . In one instance, the opening  294  is in fluid communication with additional filter manifolds  102  during multi-stage filtering. In another instance, the opening  294  is in communication with the water supply line. The secondary opening  298  is optional and may be in communication with additional filtration components that may or may not be utilized in conjunction with the water filtration system  100 . 
     In some embodiments, the outlet orifice  252  is in communication with the outlet chamber  292  and holds a valve (not shown), such as a ball check valve. The valve may be disposed within the outlet chamber  292  adjacent the secondary opening  298  and is designed to inhibit leakage while changing the cartridge  108 . In addition, the valve may inhibit the back flow of water into the cartridge  108  while water is supplied to the end user through the opening  294 . 
     Now turning to  FIGS.  15 - 17   , the cover  106  is rotatably attached to the filter manifold  102 . The cover  106  includes a substantially L-shaped body  310  having a curved front wall  312  integral with a slightly protruding wall  314  extending from a rear surface of the front wall  312 . Two members  316  extend outwardly from lateral edges  318  of the front wall  312  at opposing ends of the front wall  312 . 
     Still referring to  FIGS.  15 - 17   , the curved front wall  312  further includes a curved lip member  320  that juts outwardly along a lower edge  322  of a front surface  324  of the wall  312 . The lip member  320  acts as a finger grip that a user may utilize to apply force to rotate the cover  106 . An elongate ridge  326  extends across the surface of the protruding wall  314  and tapers adjacent the opposing ends. 
     As shown in  FIG.  17   , two locking ribs  328  protrude horizontally inwardly from a rear surface  330  of the wall  312  adjacent the lower edge  322  on opposing ends of the wall  312 . The locking ribs  328  are designed to interact with portions of the filter cartridge  108  to lock the cartridge  108  to the filter manifold  102 , as described in detail below. 
     Still referring to  FIGS.  15 - 17   , the protruding members  316  each include a substantially smooth exterior surface  340  and an opposing interior surface  342 . The protruding members  316  also include curved upper and lower surfaces  344 ,  346 , respectively. The protruding members  316  extend outwardly from the wall  312  until terminating at a hook member  348  disposed at the ends. 
     Locking members  360  extend inwardly from each of the interior surfaces  342  of the protruding members  316  and include a substantially annular body  362  having two claw members  364  (see  FIG.  17   ) that extend outwardly toward the hook members  348 . The claw members  364  define a recess  368  designed to interact with portions of the filter cartridge  108 . The locking members  360  each include an aperture  370  that extends entirely through the locking member  360  from the exterior surface  340  to the opposing interior surface  342 . The apertures  370  are designed to receive the circular projections  228  on the brace  128  of the housing  104  to rotatably lock the cover to the housing  104 . 
     Now turning to  FIGS.  18 - 30   , the filter cartridge  108  includes the sump  110  having the cartridge head  112  at one end  380  and the removable cap  114  at an opposing end  382 . The sump  110  is an elongate cylindrical housing  384  that is designed to hold and protect one or more components of the filtration media  116  and the internal components of the filter cartridge  108 . In some embodiments, the sump  110  includes a height dimension H of about 28 cm to about 30 cm and a diameter dimension D of about 5 cm to about 8 cm. It should be appreciated that the size of the sump  110  may be adjusted depending on the desired filtration needs. 
     The end  380  of the sump  110  is closed via the cartridge head  112 . In some embodiments, the cartridge head  112  is integral with the sump  110  and is not designed to be separated therefrom. As shown in  FIGS.  20  and  21   , the cartridge head  112  includes a domed body  400  separated into a front half  402  and a rear half  404  by a protruding strut  406 . As shown in  FIG.  21   , the protruding strut  406  is slightly angled with respect to a longitudinal axis L formed by the housing  384  of the sump  110 . Two rail members  408  extend outwardly from the front half  402  of the body  400  in parallel with a horizontal axis H that is perpendicular to the axis L. The rail members  408  are characterized by a substantially flat surface  410  that terminate at catch members  412  disposed on terminal ends of the rail members  408 . The catch members  412  protrude upwardly from the surface  410  and include a substantially flat end wall  414  forming a locking surface. The locking surface is designed to interact with portions of the housing  104  to assist in locking the filter cartridge  108  into the housing  104 , as explained in more detail below. 
     The cartridge head  112  also includes a cylindrical inlet tube  420  and an adjacent cylindrical outlet tube  422  protruding from the front half  402  of the body  400 . As shown in  FIG.  23   , the inlet tube  420  includes an internal valving mechanism  424  designed to allow fluid communication between water flowing from the housing  104  into the filter cartridge  108 . The inlet tube  420  is a cylindrical member that has an aperture  426  surrounded by prong members  428 . The prong members  428  are configured to engage and activate the valve  270  disposed within the inlet chamber  260  to control water flow through the filter manifold  102 . When the prong members  428  are axially displaced, the aperture  426  is opened such that water is able to flow into the cartridge head  112 . When the prong members  428  return to the position depicted in  FIGS.  18 - 25   , the aperture  426  is closed and water is unable to enter the cartridge head  122 . 
     In some embodiments, the prong members  428  may be replaced by a single, semi-circular prong  528 , as shown in  FIG.  42   , which is also configured to engage the valve  270  disposed within the inlet chamber  260  to control water flow through the filter manifold  102 , as will be described in further detail below. It is contemplated that the prong members  428 ,  528  may take various different shapes and surround the aperture  426 ,  526  of the inlet tube  420 ,  520  at any suitable location that allows the cartridge  108  to engage the filter manifold  102 . Thus, the prong members  428  shown in  FIG.  23    may have a cylindrical shape as opposed to the rectilinear shape depicted. In addition, the semi-circular prong  528  shown in  FIG.  42    may be positioned at a bottom portion of the aperture  526  as opposed to the top portion of the aperture as shown in  FIG.  42   . In a further embodiment, any of the prongs  428 / 528  may be omitted. 
     As depicted in  FIGS.  20 - 24   , the outlet tube  422  of the cartridge head  112  includes a cylindrical body  440  with a centrally disposed aperture  444  that allows water to flow out of the cartridge head  112 . As shown in  FIG.  20   , the inlet tube  420  and the outlet tube  422  each include a circular recess  429  that circumscribes an outer surface of the inlet and outlet tubes  420 ,  422 . Each circular recess  429  is configured to receive an O-ring (not shown). Thus, when the inlet tube  420  engages the inlet orifice  250  of the housing  104  and the outlet tube  422  engages the outlet orifice  252  of the housing  104 , a seal is created. In some embodiments, as shown in  FIG.  42   , one or more circular recesses  529  may circumscribe the outer surface of the inlet and outlet tubes  520 ,  522  and may be configured to receive O-rings (not shown) for additional sealing. 
     Returning to  FIG.  22   , the inlet tube  420  and the outlet tube  422  are offset with respect to an axis H 2 , formed by the flat surface  410  of the rail members  408 . The inlet tube  420  is oriented to align with the inlet orifice  250  of the housing  104  and the outlet tube  422  is positioned to align with the outlet orifice  252  of the housing  104 . The offset nature of the inlet orifice  250  and outlet orifice  252  allows the width of both of the filter manifold  102  and the filter cartridge  108  to be minimized. 
     Now turning to  FIGS.  18 ,  19 ,  26 , and  27   , the opposing end  382  of the sump  110  includes a removable cap  114 . The cap  114  includes a circular body  450  and optionally includes one or more finger grips  452  disposed on an exterior surface  454 . The cap  114  is designed to close the end  382  of the sump  110  during use of the water filtration system  100  and is designed to be removed to allow the filtration media  116  to be replaced. The finger grips  452  provide a gripping surface to facilitate removal of the cap  114 . 
     The cap  114  may be releasably attached to the end  382  of the sump  110  via numerous attachment mechanisms. In one embodiment, the cap  114  is releasably attached to the sump  110  via snap fit using a ridge  460  circumscribing the end  382  of the sump  110  and corresponding undercut  462  disposed on an interior surface of the cap  114 . In another embodiment, the cap  114  is threadingly engaged to the sump  110  via threads (not shown) that circumscribe an exterior surface of the sump  110  and corresponding grooves (not shown) formed on an interior surface of the cap  114 . In a further embodiment, the cap  114  is releasably attached to the sump  110  via an interference fit. In still other embodiments, the cap  114  may be releasably attached to the sump  110  using other attachment mechanisms. Alternatively, the filter cap  114  may be permanently attached to the sump  110  via welding or other suitable attachment mechanisms. 
     Now turning to  FIGS.  28 - 30   , the filter cartridge  108  holds replaceable filtration media  116  in an interior cavity. The filtration media  116  is designed to receive untreated water from the water feed line and remove various impurities before sending the filtered water to the supply line. The filtration media  116  is a self-contained cylindrical cartridge  468  that may be easily removed from the sump  110  and replaced. To facilitate attachment to the cartridge head  112 , the filtration media  116  optionally includes an engagement mechanism  470  or a neck extending upwardly from a top surface. The engagement mechanism  470  of the filtration media  116  engages a corresponding engagement component (not shown) within the cartridge head  112  to prepare the filtration media  116  for use by creating a fluid path therebetween. One or more valving mechanisms may be contained in the cartridge  468  and/or the inlet/outlet tubes  420 ,  422  of the cartridge head  112 . 
     The filtration media  116  comprises any number of filtration mechanisms suitable to filter water to the desired purity levels. In one embodiment, the filtration media  116  is a reverse osmosis membrane  472 . In another embodiment, the filtration media  116  is a carbon black cartridge  474 . In yet another embodiment, the filtration media  116  is a sediment cartridge  476 . Other suitable filtration media  116  and cartridges  108  include those described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0185330, filed on Nov. 22, 2006, and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0227959, filed on Mar. 31, 2006, both incorporated by reference in their entireties. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  18 ,  19 , and  28 - 30   , in use, the filtration media  116  is installed into the filter cartridge  108  and the filter cartridge  108  is locked into the filter manifold  102  to create a fluid path through the water filtration system  100 . As an initial step, the cap  114  may be rotated or otherwise removed from the sump  110  to allow access to the end  382  to install the filtration media  116 . The filtration media  116  is slid upwardly into the sump  110  until the engagement mechanism  470  contacts the corresponding engagement component of the cartridge head  112 . After the filtration media  116  is in communication with the cartridge head  112 , the cap  114  is replaced to enclose the filtration media  116  in the sump  110 . This process is repeated each time the filtration media  116  needs to be replaced. The same or different types of filtration media  116  may be utilized each time the filtration media  116  is replaced. 
     In another step, the filter cartridge  108  is designed to engage the filter manifold  102 . To insert the filter cartridge  108  into the filter manifold  102 , the cover  106  of the housing  104  is rotated upwardly as shown in  FIGS.  31  and  32    to allow access to the housing  104 . Once the cover  106  is opened, the filter cartridge  108  is moved parallel with respect to axis H defining a plane H (see  FIG.  21   ), in a horizontal manner toward the housing  104  of the filter manifold  102 . The inlet and outlet tubes  420 ,  422  are aligned with the corresponding inlet and outlet orifices  250 ,  252  associated with the wall  200  of the housing  104 . Once coupled, internally, the prong members  428  of the inlet tube  420  axially displace the valve  270  to form a fluid path and allow water to access the filter cartridge  108  via the inlet orifice  250 , which is in communication with the inlet chamber  260  (see  FIG.  41   ). 
     As best seen in  FIGS.  36 - 38   , as the cartridge  108  is moved toward the housing  104 , the rail members  408  of the cartridge head  112  are aligned with the tracks  236  formed by the lower surfaces  232  (see  FIG.  7   ) of the members  220  and upper surfaces  234  of the lower section  160  of the flange  154  of the housing  104 . The rail members  408  slide onto the tracks  236  and continue sliding axially until the catch members  412  of the cartridge head  112  interact with the claw members  364  of the cover  106 . The catch members  412  slide into the recess  368  such that the flat end wall  414  presses against the recess  368 . 
     At the same time, the cover  106  is grasped and rotated toward a closed position in a manner shown by arrow C (see  FIG.  34   ), which further forces the cartridge  108  toward the housing  104  via the catch members  412 . Once the cover  106  is fully rotated as shown in  FIGS.  35  and  38   , the end wall  414  abuts a point  167  on the housing  104 , which is the point where the curved section  158  intersects the lower section  160 . 
     The protruding strut  406  of the cartridge head  112  rides over the interior surface of the cover  106  until being disposed adjacent the protruding wall  314  between members  316  (see  FIG.  38   ). Additionally, the two locking ribs  328  of the cover  106  engage the detents  168  of the arm members  126   a ,  126   b  of the housing  104  (see  FIGS.  39  and  40   ). In this locked position, the filter cartridge  108  is in fluid communication with the housing  104  and is ready for use. 
     In use, unfiltered water flows through the water feed line and enters the filter manifold  102  through the bore  192  extending from the housing  104 . Water flows into the bore  192 , through the valve  270 , and into the inlet chamber  260 . Water continues through the inlet chamber  260  and is directed into the filter manifold  102  via the inlet orifice  250  that is in communication with the inlet tube  420  of the cartridge head  112 . Water flows through the filter cartridge  108  through the filtration media  116  and exits via the outlet tube  422 . The filtered water continues through the outlet tube  422  of the filter cartridge  108  through the outlet orifice  252  and into the outlet chamber  292 . The water flows through the outlet chamber  292  to one or more of the opening  294  and/or secondary opening  298 . The filtered water is either directed to the water supply line to be distributed to the end user, or directed to one or more additional filter manifolds  102  during multi-stage filtering. In another instance, water may be sent to additional filtration components. For example, water may be filtered to a reverse osmosis system such as the one described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,262,910, filed on Aug. 31, 2011, and incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
     To change the filtration media  116  and/or the filter cartridge  108 , one or more steps of the process described above are reversed. It is contemplated that the filtration media  116  alone may be replaced without removing the filter cartridge  108  from the manifold  102 . To do this, the cap  114  is removed from or rotated in an opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise) to disengage the cap  114  from the sump  110 . The filtration media  116  must be dislodged from the cartridge head  112  by rotating, sliding, or otherwise disengaging the engagement mechanism  470  from the engagement component of the cartridge head  112 . Once the spent filtration media  116  is finished, new replacement media  116  is added in the manner discussed previously. 
     To disengage the entire filter cartridge  108  from the filter manifold  102 , the cover  106  of the housing  104  is rotated upwardly to allow access to the housing  104 . The claw members  364  of the cover  106  may be configured to engage the catch members  412  to unseat the cartridge head  412  from the filter manifold  102 . Once the cover  106  is opened, the filter cartridge  108  is slid horizontally outwardly with respect to axis H (see  FIG.  21   ), away from the housing  104  of the filter manifold  102 . 
     In another embodiment, as shown in  FIGS.  42 - 47   , the cartridge head  512  includes one or more fin members  501  upwardly extending from the front half  502  of the domed body  500  that are configured to be received by corresponding slots  603  (see  FIG.  43   ) of the filter manifold  602 . The cartridge head  512 , filter cartridge  108 , filter manifold  602  and associated components are similar to the cartridge head  112 , filter cartridge  108 , filter manifold  102  and associated components described with respect to  FIGS.  1 - 41    and therefore similar reference numerals will be used to describe similar components. In addition, the cartridge head  512  and filter manifold  602  shown in  FIGS.  42 - 47    may be configured to receive a similar cover  106  as described in  FIGS.  1 - 41   . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  43 - 44   , the housing  604  of the filter manifold  602  includes a bracket  620  with two opposing arm members  626   a ,  626   b  protruding outwardly therefrom. The arm members  626  are mechanically joined by a brace  628  that extends between interior surfaces  630   a ,  630   b  of the arm members  626   a ,  626   b  and divides the housing  604  into the interior (rear) section  632  and (front) receiving section  696 . The interior (rear) section  632  includes the cylindrical housing  654  that extends between the brace  628  and the bracket  620 . The cylindrical housing  654  defines the inlet chamber  650  that receives the inlet tube  520  of the cartridge head  512 . The interior (rear) section  632  further includes the cylindrical housing  690  that also extends between the brace  628  and the bracket  620  of the filter manifold  602 . The cylindrical housing  690  defines the outlet chamber  692  that receives the outlet tube  522  of the cartridge head  512 . 
     With continued reference to  FIGS.  43 - 44   , the brace  628  further includes two members  621  that extend outwardly from the brace  628 . A plurality of corrugated channels  629  also extend outwardly from the brace  628  in the receiving section  696  of the filter manifold  602 . The plurality of corrugated channels  629  may extend between the members  621  and/or may be integrally formed with the members  621  of the brace  628 . One or more slots  603  may be provided in the plurality of corrugated channels  629  for receiving the fin members  501  of the cartridge head  512 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  43   , eight corrugated channels  629  are depicted with slots  603  provided in two of the eight channels  629 . However, it is contemplated that the slots  603  may be provided in any one of the channels  629  and the slots  603  may be provided in different shapes (e.g., semi-circular recesses, triangular recesses, etc.). In addition, more than eight channels  629  or less than eight channels  629  may be provided. It is further provided that the slots  603  may be provided independent of the channels  629  (e.g., the channels  629  may be omitted). 
     Returning to  FIG.  42   , the fin members  501  may be rigid and extend upwardly from the front half  502  of the domed body  500  and extend outwardly from the protruding strut  506  that separates the cartridge head into the front half  502  and the rear half  504 . A top portion  507  of each fin member  501  may be substantially rectangular in shape in order to engage the slots  603  within the plurality of corrugated channels  629 . A bottom portion  509  of each fin member  501  may be arc shaped to match the curvature of the domed body  500 . Thus, the fin members  501  may be integrally formed with the domed body  500  of the cartridge head  512 . However, in some embodiments, the fin members  501  may be coupled to the domed body  500  using any suitable fastening technique. 
     Still referring to  FIG.  42   , one or more fin members  501  may be provided on the domed body  500  of the cartridge head  512 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  42   , two fin members  501  are shown. One of the fin members  501  is positioned between the inlet tube  520  and the outlet tube  522 , and the other fin member  501  is positioned to the left of the outlet tube  522 . However, it is contemplated that the fin members  501  may be spaced and positioned in various locations on the front half  502  of the domed body  500 . In one non-limiting example, one fin member  501  could be positioned between the inlet tube  520  and the outlet tube  522 , and the other fin member  501  may be positioned to the right of the inlet tube  520 . In another non-limiting example, one fin member  501  may be positioned to the left of the outlet tube  522  and the other fin member  501  may be positioned to the right of the inlet tube  520 . In addition, more than two fin members  501  or less than two fin members  501  may be provided and may include various shapes depending on the shape of the corresponding slots  603  of the filter manifold  602 . 
     By providing various combinations of the slot  603  positions and spacing between the fin members  501 , a particular type of filter cartridge  108  media (e.g., RO membrane) may be designed to only engage the filter manifold  602  having corresponding slots  603 . This assures that the correct filter cartridge  108  is being provided to the filter manifold  602 . Additionally, the appropriately spaced slots  603  and corresponding spaced fin members  501  can provide the user with a simple alignment mechanism while inserting the filter cartridge  108  into the filter manifold  602 . 
     For example, as shown in  FIG.  45   , the fin members  501  do not align with the slots  603  of the filter manifold  602 , thereby indicating the incorrect filter cartridge  108  is being inserted into the filter manifold  602 . In contrast, as shown in  FIG.  46   , the fin members  501  are properly aligned with the slots  603  of the filter manifold  602 , thereby indicating the correct filter cartridge  108  is being inserted into the filter manifold  602 . 
     In use, the filter cartridge  108  is designed to engage the filter manifold  602 , as shown in  FIG.  46   . To insert the filter cartridge  108  into the filter manifold  602 , the cover (not shown) is rotated upwardly to allow access to the housing  604 . Once the cover is opened, the filter cartridge  108  is moved parallel with respect to axis H (see  FIG.  21   ), in a horizontal manner toward the housing  604  of the filter manifold  602 . The fin members  501  of the filter cartridge  108  are aligned with the corresponding slots  603  of the filter manifold  602 . In turn, the inlet and outlet tubes  520 ,  522  are aligned with the corresponding inlet and outlet orifices (not shown) associated with the inlet chamber  650  and the outlet chamber  692  or the cylindrical housings  654 ,  690 . Once coupled, internally, the semi-circular prong  528  of the inlet tube  520  axially displaces the valve  270  to form a fluid path and allows water to access the filter cartridge  108  via the inlet orifice, which is in communication with the inlet chamber  560 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  46   , as the cartridge  108  is moved toward the housing  604 , the rail members  508  of the cartridge head  512  are aligned with the tracks  636  of the filter manifold housing  604 . The rail members  508  slide onto the tracks  636  and continue sliding axially until the catch members  511  of the cartridge head  512  interact with the claw members of the cover (not shown). At the same time, the fin members  501  axially engage the corresponding slots  603 . The cover (not shown) is then grasped and rotated toward a closed position to force the cartridge  108  toward the housing  604  via the catch members  511  into the locked position, as previously described with respect to  FIGS.  39  and  40   . 
     In another embodiment, as shown in  FIGS.  48 - 49   , the filter cartridge  108  includes the sump  110  having the cartridge head  512  at one end  380  and a cap portion  514  at an opposing end  382 . The cap portion  514  may be integrally formed with the end portion  382  of the sump  110 . The cartridge head  512  is defined by a cylindrical side wall  513  that extends downwardly from the domed body  500 . A lower portion  515  of the cylindrical side wall  513  tapers inwardly toward the filtration media  116 . Thus, the lower portion  515  of the cylindrical side wall  513  is configured to be received by a recess  517  formed within the end portion  380  of the cylindrical housing  384  of the sump  110 . In some embodiments, the end portion  380  of the sump  110  is welded to the lower portion  515  of the cylindrical side wall  513  of the cartridge head  512  and is not designed to be separated therefrom. 
     In another embodiment shown in  FIGS.  50 - 52   , two filter manifolds  702   a ,  702   b  are attached to create a multi-stage water filtration system  700 . To attach one filter manifold  702   a  to a second filter manifold  702   b , a cylindrical protrusion  790  (see  FIG.  52   ) of arm member  726   b  slides into a circular duct  780  of the arm member  726   a  to provide a fluid path between the filter manifolds  702   a ,  702   b.    
     The filter manifolds  702  are modular in this manner so that numerous manifolds  702  can be attached to each other to create the multi-stage filtration system  700 . In one instance, one or more filtration stages may be utilized to correspond to various filtration properties of the water being filtered. In particular, numerous filtration media  116  types may be utilized in conjunction with each other in the multi-stage system  700  to further refine the filtration properties. In other instances, the same filtration media  116  is utilized in the filter cartridges  108 . 
     It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that while the disclosure has been described above in connection with particular embodiments and examples, the disclosure is not necessarily so limited, and that numerous other embodiments, examples, uses, modifications and departures from the embodiments, examples and uses are intended to be encompassed by the claims attached hereto. The entire disclosure of each patent and publication cited herein is incorporated by reference, as if each such patent or publication were individually incorporated by reference herein.