Abstract: A beverage dispenser includes a system for detecting an empty state of a consumable in the dispenser. The system detects the physical movement of an element of a fluid delivery component that is fluidly connected to the consumable. The movement is triggered by the empty state of the consumable and is detected by a sensor disposed in the beverage dispenser. The system can be retrofitted into a legacy beverage dispenser with reduced installation effort.

Abstract: Filter cartridges and methods of use with manifolds of appliances. The filter cartridges can includes components, such as handles, levers, cams, rotatable nuts, actuators, pins, and springs, to assist in removing the filter cartridge from the manifold. Some embodiments of the filter cartridges can include a neck having a non-uniform diameter over a longitudinal length. Other embodiments of the filter cartridges can include a recess that receives a portion of the manifold and the recess can have at least one seal. One embodiment of the invention provides an adapter for use between a manifold and a filter.