Patent Publication Number: US-10786767-B2

Title: Filter apparatus with torque limiting mechanism

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/445,499, filed Apr. 12, 2012, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/474,493 filed on Apr. 12, 2011. The contents of both applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety the entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The disclosure herein generally relates to filter installation, servicing, and replacement. In particular, the disclosure herein relates to a filter apparatus employing a torque limiting mechanism that can prevent or at least minimize over tightening of a filter so as to avoid the occurrence of damage. 
     BACKGROUND 
     During installation, servicing, and/or replacement of filters, for instance liquid fluid filters, there can be a risk of over tightening the filter assemblies. Such over tightening can cause damage to filter assembly components. 
     For example, service technicians have used tools such as a strap wrench or socket drive, depending on the type of filter, to install or service a filter on an engine. Such installation or servicing often includes connecting a filter to a filter head by a threaded engagement. However, such tools do not indicate when to stop tightening the filter. Thus, over tightening can occur which has caused some filters to crack, such as for example cracking of the filter housing or shell. The over tightening of a filter housing or shell can lead to pre-mature failure of the components and seals. Typically, filter seals will expand when subjected to heat and fluids for extended periods, therefore increasing the load on the filter as well as increasing the necessary torque for removal. 
     To reduce the risk of over tightening, torque measuring has provided predetermined torque specifications, which require one to torque the filter to the engine specification. However, one may still over tighten and/or over torque filter components, for example, by manually overriding such specified torque measurements. 
     Improvements may be made upon existing filter designs so as to prevent over tightening and filter component damage. 
     SUMMARY 
     Generally, an improved filter apparatus is described herein that has a torque limiting device, which may be a clutch mechanism, and which can activate once a certain torque is reached. The torque limiting device can protect a filter from being over tightened and thereby prevent damage to filter components, and can also eliminate or reduce the need for torque measurement of certain filter components. 
     The filter apparatus described herein can be useful in various filtration applications, including for example filters that are used in liquid filtration, such as lubrication, fuel, and diesel exhaust fluid filtration, as well as filtration applications that do not employ liquid filters, such as filters for crankcase ventilation, and air. It will be appreciated that the filter apparatus herein may be useful in filtration applications other than those just mentioned, and where there may be a general need to prevent over tightening of filter component(s). 
     Generally, the filter apparatuses herein have a clutch mechanism that is located on one of the fluid filter that connects to the engine, the filter head that engages the fluid filter, or a combination of both the fluid filter and the filter head, where some clutch mechanism elements are on the fluid filter and some are on the filter head, such that the elements cooperate with each other when the fluid filter and filter head are connected. 
     In one embodiment, a filter apparatus includes a fluid filter that is connectable to an engine. The fluid filter includes a clutch mechanism on the fluid filter. In some embodiments, the clutch mechanism is on or proximate a top part of the fluid filter. For example, the clutch mechanism is disposed proximate the area of connection where the fluid filter connects to an engine. In some embodiments, the clutch mechanism is on a bottom of the fluid filter. In other embodiments, the clutch mechanism is on a side of the filter. 
     In one embodiment, a filter apparatus includes a filter head. The filter head includes a clutch mechanism. In some examples, the clutch mechanism is proximate a connecting spud of the filter head. 
     In other embodiments, a filter apparatus includes both a filter body and a filter head. The filter body and filter head have an interface. A clutch mechanism is disposed at the interface where the filter body and filter head. In some embodiments, the clutch mechanism has elements that are on the fluid filter and some that are on the filter head. The elements cooperate with each other when the fluid filter and filter head are connected. 
     In one embodiment, a method of connecting a fluid filter to an engine includes engaging the fluid filter with a filter head. The fluid filter is then tightened with the filter head. Further tightening is limited due to activation of a clutch mechanism, which prevents over tightening and can also provide an indication that connection is complete. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The drawings herein show and provide description as to various inventive concepts of a torque limiting devices, which may include a clutch mechanism, that are employed in fluid filters and/or filter heads, as well as their systems and components. 
         FIG. 1  is a partial top perspective view of one embodiment of a fluid filter with a torque limiting device. 
         FIG. 2  is a side sectional view of the fluid filter with the torque limiting device of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a partial side sectional view of one embodiment of a seal configuration such as for the fluid filter with the torque limiting device of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a side view of another embodiment of a filter apparatus with a torque limiting device. 
         FIG. 5  is a side sectional view of the filter apparatus of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 6  is an exploded view of the filter apparatus of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 7  is an exploded view of the torque limiting device of  FIG. 4 . 
         FIG. 8  is a partial top perspective view another embodiment of a filter apparatus with a torque limiting device. 
         FIG. 9  is a top perspective view of the torque limiting device of the filter apparatus of  FIG. 10 , where some features are also shown in  FIGS. 11A and 11B . 
         FIG. 10  is a side sectional view of another embodiment of a filter apparatus with a torque limiting device. 
         FIG. 11A  is a side view of fluid filter that incorporates a torque limiting device incorporating the spud utilizing an internal clutching mechanism shown in  FIG. 9   
         FIG. 11B  is a side view of fluid filter that incorporates a torque limiting device incorporating the spud utilizing an internal clutching mechanism shown in  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 12A  is a bottom view of another embodiment of a filter apparatus with a torque limiting device. 
         FIG. 12B  is a bottom perspective view of another embodiment of a filter apparatus with a torque limiting device. 
         FIG. 13  is a bottom perspective view of another embodiment of a filter apparatus with a torque limiting device. 
         FIG. 14  is a side view of fluid filter that incorporates a torque limiting device, such as in  FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 13 . 
         FIG. 15  is a close up view showing operation of a torque limiting device, such as shown in  FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 13 . 
         FIG. 16A  is a partial side view of another embodiment of a filter apparatus with a torque limiting device. 
         FIG. 16B  is a partial top view of the filter apparatus with a torque limiting device shown in  FIG. 16A . 
         FIG. 17  is a side view of another embodiment of a filter apparatus with a torque limiting device. 
         FIG. 18  is a side sectional view of the filter apparatus of  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 19  is top sectional view of the torque limiting device of  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 20  is an exploded view of the filter apparatus of  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 21  is an exploded view of the torque limiting device of  FIG. 17 . 
         FIG. 22  is a side view of another embodiment of a torque limiting device which may be employed in a filter apparatus. 
         FIG. 23  is a side view of the torque limiting device of  FIG. 22 . 
         FIG. 24  is a side view of another embodiment of a torque limiting device which may be employed in a filter apparatus. 
         FIG. 25  is a bottom view of the torque limiting device of  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 26  is a top view of the torque limiting device of  FIG. 24 . 
         FIG. 27  is a side view of another embodiment of a torque limiting device which may be employed in a filter apparatus. 
         FIG. 28  is a perspective sectional view of another embodiment of a torque limiting device which may be employed in a filter apparatus. 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view of a portion of the torque limiting device of  FIG. 28 . 
         FIG. 30  is side sectional view of another embodiment of a filter apparatus with a torque limiting mechanism. 
         FIG. 31  is a side sectional view of the filter apparatus of  FIG. 30 . 
         FIG. 32  is a side sectional view of the filter apparatus of  FIG. 30 . 
         FIG. 33  is a perspective view of another embodiment of torque limiting device which may be employed in a filter apparatus. 
         FIG. 34  shows the torque limiting device of  FIG. 33 . 
         FIG. 35  is a perspective view of another embodiment of a torque limiting device which may be employed in a filter apparatus. 
         FIG. 36  is a perspective view of another embodiment of a torque limiting device which may be employed in a filter apparatus. 
         FIG. 37  is a perspective view of another embodiment of torque limiting device which may be incorporated in a filter apparatus. 
         FIG. 38  is a top view in partial section of the filter apparatus with torque limiting device of  FIG. 37 . 
         FIG. 39  is a side sectional view of the filter apparatus with torque limiting device of  FIG. 37 . 
         FIG. 40  is a close up view of  FIG. 38  showing the torque limiting device of  FIG. 37 . 
         FIG. 41  is a perspective view of another embodiment of torque limiting device which may be incorporated in a filter apparatus. 
         FIG. 42  is a top view of the filter apparatus with torque limiting device of  FIG. 41 . 
         FIG. 43  is a side sectional view of the filter apparatus with torque limiting device of  FIG. 41 . 
         FIG. 44  is another side sectional view of the filter apparatus with torque limiting device of  FIG. 41 . 
         FIG. 45  is a bottom sectional view showing the torque limiting device of  FIG. 41 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIGS. 1-45  illustrate and the following describes exemplary embodiments of a filter apparatus with a torque limiting device, which may also include a clutch mechanism. The torque limiting device can provide a protective function for a filter, and can activate once a certain torque is reached. The torque limiting device can protect a filter from being over tightened and thereby prevent damage to filter components. A torque limiting device and a clutch mechanism described herein can also eliminate or reduce the need for torque measurement of certain filter components. It will be appreciated that the filter apparatus described herein can be useful in various filtration applications, including for example filters that are used in liquid filtration, such as lubrication, fuel, and diesel exhaust fluid filtration, as well as filtration applications that do not employ liquid filters, such as filters for crankcase ventilation, and air. It will be appreciated that the filter apparatus herein may be useful in filtration applications other than those just mentioned, and where there may be a general need to prevent over tightening of filter component(s). 
     Generally, the filter apparatuses herein have a torque limiting device that is located on one of the fluid filter that connects to the engine, the filter head that engages the fluid filter, or a combination of both the fluid filter and the filter head, where some elements of the torque limiting device are on the fluid filter and some are on the filter head, such that the elements cooperate with each other when the fluid filter and filter head are connected. For example, the torque limiting device can include a clutch mechanism with clutch elements on the fluid filter, the filter head, or on both the fluid filter and filter head. It will be appreciated that the torque limiting device could be integral to the gasket section and/or integral to the head assembly. 
     For example, the clutch mechanism can be located on the top, bottom, or side of the fluid filter, and may be on or near various structural components of the fluid filter, such as for example on the fluid filter&#39;s spud, nutplate, nutplate to can/housing interface, the collar, or the bottom of the housing, such as at a drive area. In other examples, the clutch mechanism may be located on the spud of the filter head that connects with the fluid filter or located on another component of the filter head. In some circumstances, it may be desirable to have the clutch mechanism closer in proximity to where the fluid filter is to be attached to the engine, such as for example near a connection of the fluid filter and a filter head. The following figures provide additional embodiments of a clutch mechanism for a filter apparatus. 
     With reference to  FIGS. 1-3 , a filter apparatus  10  includes a fluid filter having a housing  12  that connects with a nutplate  14 . The housing  12  has an inner volume that houses a filter media  30 . The nutplate  14  includes a connective portion  28 . In one embodiment, the connective portion  28  is a hole with an annular thread that allows the fluid filter to be connected to an engine, for example to a spud on a filter head. 
     It will be appreciated that the term “connective portion” is not meant to be limited to threads, a threaded engagement, or the like, and in the embodiments shown and described with respect to any of  FIGS. 1-36 , references to such threaded connections is merely exemplary and is meant to refer to connective portions in general as connection structures other than threaded connections may be employed, for example but not limited to snap fits, interference fits, and other mechanical structures that would be suitable for connection. 
     A clutch mechanism is provided by ratchets  16  on the bottom of the nutplate  14  and ratchets  18  on the top of the housing  12 . The ratchets  16 ,  18  are shown as two surfaces with ramps, the ramps cooperate such that when the fluid filter is tightened to an engine, e.g. connected with a filter head, the ratchets  16 ,  18  provide a torque limiting feature so as to prevent over tightening of the fluid filter. For example, the ratchets  16 ,  18  can continue to allow rotation between the nutplate  14  and the housing  12  in the tightening direction which provides slippage, where the fluid filter would not be over tightened at the connective portion  28 . That is, the two ramped surfaces interface to allow slippage (rotation) when desired torque is reached in the tightening direction, and provide a non-slipping engagement in the loosening direction. As shown, the ratchets of the clutch mechanism are in an axial configuration. 
     The nutplate  14  includes a seal configuration on its top surface. The seal configuration axially seals the fluid filter to the engine, for example when the fluid filter is connected to a filter head. As shown in  FIG. 1 , the seal configuration has inner and outer floating seals  20  on inner and outer overmold rings of the nutplate  14 . In other embodiments, the inner and outer seals may be a double  24  or triple  26  ribbed gaskets, such as shown in  FIG. 3 . It will be appreciated that other seal configurations may be employed and that the filter apparatus  10  is not limited to the particular seal configurations shown. 
     Returning to the structure of the clutch mechanism, it will be appreciated that the mechanical implementation of the clutch mechanism can be accomplished in a variety of ways using a variety of structures, and is therefore not meant to be limiting. Other options that could be used for the clutching mechanism can include for example spring loaded balls into detente areas, rotating collars for large filters, flexible tabs, and springs. For example, the clutch mechanism can include flexible fingers within a circular disk which slide and/or lock against ramped teeth. It also will be appreciated that the orientation of the clutch mechanism is not meant to be limiting. For example,  FIGS. 1-3  show an axially configured clutch, but it will be appreciated that a radially configured clutch mechanism or other orientations may be employed as appropriate. 
       FIGS. 4-7  show another embodiment of a filter apparatus  300  having an axial ramp configured clutch mechanism. The clutch mechanism can reside in a filter head structure that is connectable to a fluid filter. As shown, the filter apparatus  300  has an assembly access plate  314  that connects to an engine, for example through fasteners such as bolts  324 . A face seal  320  seals the access plate  314  side of the filter apparatus  300 . The apparatus  300  includes a connective portion  312 , shown for example as a spud, which is used to connect with a fluid filter, such as by a threaded engagement. The apparatus further includes a spring  330  disposed between the access plate  314  and spud  312 . The clutch mechanism is shown as axial ramp surfaces  316 ,  318  (close up shown in  FIG. 7 ). Axial ramp surface  316  is on clutch element  322 , which is shown connected to the spud  312  through a fastener such as a bolt. Axial ramp surface  318  is on the main body  310 . The axial ramp surfaces  316 ,  318  provide a torque limiting feature that allows slippage by the surfaces  316 ,  318  riding on each other. The tooth design of the ramp surfaces  316 ,  318  can be angled or ramped for the tightening direction, but may have an upright surface, e.g. at about 90 degrees, so that there is no slippage in the loosening direction. The spring  330  provides another protective feature. The spring  330  allows axial movement of the spud  312 , such that the ramp surfaces can be cleared of each other and slippage is allowed in both the tightening and loosening directions. Apparatus  300  can also include a distance D that allows the spud  312  to be partially inserted into the space between the access plate  314  and spud  312 . The spring size can be dependent upon the torque requirement of the component and the angle of the tooth design of the ramp surfaces. 
       FIGS. 8-11B  show further embodiments of filter apparatuses that have a clutch mechanism, where the clutch mechanism resides on or proximate the spud of a fluid filter. In the example shown in  FIG. 8 , the filter apparatus  500  has a clutch mechanism with radial ramps  516 ,  518  (best shown in  FIG. 9 ) that ride on each other to allow slippage in the tightening direction, but not in the loosening direction. The clutch mechanism is located at the spud  514  of the fluid filter  512 . In the embodiment shown, the spud  514  can engage a ribbed center tube ( 520  shown in  FIG. 9 ) that is slotted to provide torque limiting. The ribbed center tube has radial ramps at the slots to provide the torque limiting function.  FIG. 9  shows one embodiment of such a clutch mechanism with a ribbed center tube  520  that would engage the spud  514 . Slots  530  are on the ramps  516  which allow a click flex with the ramps  518 . As shown, ramps  518  are on a ring portion, for example at the top of the nutplate. 
       FIG. 10  shows an embodiment of a clutch mechanism near the spud of the fluid filter. Nutplate  510  may be separately attached to the shell  522  of the fluid filter (see arrows of  FIG. 10 ), such as for example by a spin weld. As shown in  FIG. 10 , the clutch mechanism is shown as clutch elements  526  and  528  that are proximate the spud  524 . The clutch elements  526 ,  528  may be configured with axial ramps, such as shown in  FIGS. 4-7 . 
       FIG. 11A  shows an embodiment of a clutch mechanism in the spud  532  of the fluid filter  500 . The ribbed center tube  536  and spud  532  (region  534 ) may be configured with ramps, such as shown in  FIG. 9 . Center tube  536  can be attached to the shell  539  so force applied to the bottom or side of the filter can cause the center tube  536  and spud  532  to engage and function as the clutch mechanism. Filter media  537  is represented for reference only, and seal  538  may seal between the spud  532  and the shell  539 . 
       FIG. 11B  shows an embodiment of a clutch mechanism in the spud  542  of the fluid filter  500 . The ribbed center tube  546  portion of the filter shell  549  and spud  542  (region  544 ) may be configured with ramps, such as shown in  FIG. 9 . Tube section  546  is attached to shell  549  so force applied to the bottom or side of filter can cause center tube  546  and spud  542  to engage and function as the clutch mechanism. Filter media  547  is represented for reference only, and seal  548  may seal between the spud  542  and the shell  549 . 
       FIGS. 12A-15  show another embodiment of a clutch mechanism that is located on the bottom of the fluid filter, for example on a drive area  614  of fluid filter  600  (see  FIG. 14 ). The clutch mechanism includes radial ramps  616 ,  616   a  that engage radial ramps  618 ,  618   a  (see  FIGS. 12A and 13 ).  FIG. 12B  shows another example of radial ramps  618   b  and drive area  624   b  that can be employed instead of the drive area  624 ,  624   a  and radial ramps  616 ,  616   a  of  FIGS. 12A and 13 . In some embodiments, the radial ramps  616 ,  616   a  reside on a spring plate  622 ,  622   a  (see also e.g. spring plate  622   d  in  FIG. 14 ), which may be fixed to a shell or housing  612   a ,  612   d  of fluid filter  600 , and the radial ramps  618 ,  618   a  can reside on a torque drive e.g.  624 ,  624   a ,  624   b ,  624   d . In this embodiment, a portion of the clutch mechanism is contained in a portion of the filter housing e.g.  612   a ,  612   d  that is a separate, isolated chamber  626  from that containing the fluid being filtered and the filter media  628  (see  FIG. 14 ).  FIG. 15  shows another example how radial ramps (e.g.  616   c ,  618   c ) cooperate with one another, and which may be applied on a spring plate, e.g. spring plate  622   d  of  FIG. 14 . In the tightening direction, the ramps are allowed to ride along each other once a certain torque has been reached. This allows the slippage so that over tightening does not occur. In the loosening direction, the ramps do not allow relative rotation, thus providing a ratchet effect. 
       FIGS. 16A and 16B  show another embodiment of a filter apparatus  700  with a clutch mechanism. In some embodiments, a nutplate  714  has ramps or dimples  718  and a filter shell  716  which also has engaging features such as, ramps or dimples  720 . The housing  700  would clutch when the nutplate  714  reached a predetermined torque and would lock when removing. The nutplate would get a ratcheting feature from designing either a ramp  718  or half dimple feature working with the housing feature  720  to slip or spin when a predetermined torque is met. Sealing would be achieved by placing a bead roll  724  in the shell to retain an o-ring or gasket  722 . 
       FIGS. 17-21  show another embodiment of a filter apparatus  800  having a clutch mechanism with radially operating features. The clutch mechanism can reside in a filter head structure, e.g.  810 , that is connectable to a fluid filter. As shown, the filter apparatus  800  has an assembly access plate  814  that connects to an engine, for example through fasteners such as bolts  824 . A face seal  820  seals the access plate  814  side of the filter apparatus  800 . The apparatus  800  includes a connective portion  812 , shown for example as a spud, which is used to connect with a fluid filter, such as by a threaded engagement. The apparatus further includes a spring  830  disposed between the access plate  814  and clutch elements and spud  812 . The clutch mechanism is shown as curved surfaces  816 ,  818  respectively on a clutch element  822  and an annular rim of an access plate  814 . The curved surfaces  816 ,  818  are radially disposed (see e.g.  FIG. 19 ). In the embodiment shown, surfaces  816  are shown as curved protrusions on the clutch element  822 , which is connected to the spud through a fastener such as a bolt. Surfaces  818  are shown as curved recesses or notches radially disposed on the annular rim of the access plate  814 . See  FIG. 19 . It will be appreciated that the configuration of the surfaces is not limited to that of  FIGS. 17-21 , for example, the annular rim may have the protrusions and the clutch element  822  may have the recesses. The annular rim of the access plate in some embodiments is relatively flexible so as to allow the clutch element  822  or disc to slip after a preset torque has been reached. The surfaces  816 ,  818  provide a torque limiting feature that allows slippage by the surfaces riding on each other. 
     In some embodiments, the annular rim of the access plate  814  is constructed as a composite component, so that the radial curved surfaces  818  on the downward extending annular rim can move outward (see outward arrows) when engaged with the curved protrusions  816  on the clutch element  822 . Under a high enough torque, the clutch element  822  and spud  812  are allowed to rotate relative to the access plate  414 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 18 , apparatus  800  can also include a distance D that allows the spud  812  to be partially inserted into a space within the annular rim of the access plate  814 . 
       FIGS. 22 and 23  show another embodiment of a clutch mechanism  900 . For example, a hex or multisided shaft that is held in place via a spring clip that expands when a specified or certain torque is reached. As shown, the clutch mechanism  900  includes shaft  910  held in place by spring clip  930 . When the shaft  910  rotates and expands the spring clip  930 , locks  940  engage within retaining grooves  920 . The clutch mechanism  900  provides a free spinning configuration (e.g. in  FIG. 22 ) and lock configuration (e.g. in  FIG. 23 ). For example, rotation of shaft  910  opens the spring clip  930  and can lock a spud. The clutch mechanism can be actuated by connection of the fluid filter. 
     In a free state, an internal portion of the filter which attaches to a mating portion of the head will freely rotate. This can also hold true if the floating or rotating feature is a facet of the head itself. A feature (e.g. shaft  910 ) that is either an integral part of a filter head or filter housing will in some embodiments include a specific geometric shape which activates a specialized spring clip contained within. During installation, the rotation of this feature  910  in conjunction with the filter will engage and spread a self contained spring clip that will expand and lock against a surrounding wall or containment enclosure enabling a solid rotational union between the filter and head. When a design torque specific to the spring clip is reached, the spring will flex inward allowing a slipping action or ratcheting to occur. This will limit the amount of installation turns or torque which can be applied to the joint. 
       FIGS. 24-26  show another embodiment of a filter apparatus  1100  with a torque limiting mechanism. The torque limiting mechanism can reside in a filter head structure that is connectable to a fluid filter. In the embodiment shown, for example, the torque limiting mechanism is located at a spud  1112  of the filter head. As shown, the torque limiting mechanism has a spring  1130  that in some embodiments is reverse wound and press fit into a bore  1120 , in which the spud  1112  resides. The spud has threads that are held stationary until a certain torque is reached, where slippage can occur so that a filter is not over tightened with the filter head. In a loosening direction, the spring  1130  expands so that there is no slippage and so as to allow removal of a fluid filter from the filter head. That is, the spring  1130  can be press fit into the bore  1120  and attached to the spud  1112 . Threads on the spud  1112  are held stationary until a certain torque is reached to wind the spring and reduce its outer diameter. This causes friction to be reduced, which allows the spud to freely rotate, thus limiting filter installation torque, e.g. on the filter head. Upon removal, the spring  1130  can expand and return the outer diameter to the frictional engagement to hold the spud  1112  in place and allow for filter removal. 
       FIG. 27  shows an alternative to the interface of  FIGS. 24-26 . The spring  1130  can be engaged with an additional engagement member  1110  that is movable along the spud  1112 . The engagement member  1110  can be moved by a part of a fluid filter to engage the spud  1112  to the spring  1130  and prevent free spinning. 
       FIGS. 28-29  show additional embodiments of a filter apparatus  1400  with a torque limiting mechanism. The torque limiting mechanism can reside in a filter head structure that is connectable to a fluid filter. As shown, the filter apparatus  1400  has a body  1414  that connects to an engine. The body  1414  includes a collar that is sealed with plate  1410  having a spud  1412 . The connective portion e.g. spud  1412 , is used to connect the filter head with a fluid filter, such as by a threaded engagement. Fluid flow holes  1426  are provided through the plate  1410 . The apparatus further includes a spring  1430 . The spring  1430  is held in place by the collar of body  1414 . When a certain torque is reached by applying a fluid filter, and that is greater than the force of the spring  1430 , a rotation of the plate  1410  can occur which allows slippage. Seals  1420  seal the body  1414  with the plate  1410  and flow path through the spud  1412 . The seals  1420  may be o-ring seals, since rotation of the plate  1410  is minimal and is used in a semi-static role. 
     In some embodiments, the apparatus  1400  has a clutch mechanism shown as axial ramp surfaces  1416 . Axial ramp surface  1416  is on the plate  1410  and can engage axial ramp surface (not shown) on the main body  1410 . The ramp surfaces provide a ratchet-like torque limiting feature that allows slippage by the surfaces riding on each other. In some embodiments, the ramps provide so that a total movement can be minimized to a pre-determined rotation of 5 to 20 degrees. It will be appreciated that this predetermined rotation is merely exemplary as other settings on the amount of rotation may be employed. In some cases, the setting can be any fixed range below 1 full turn, or usually less than about 90 degrees. Such a configuration can also be desirable, for example, when seal compression lock and thread forces are present in a filter apparatus. A ratcheting configuration as shown can ensure that free rotation can occur to prevent over tightening. 
       FIGS. 30-32  show another embodiment of a filter apparatus  1600  with a torque limiting mechanism. The torque limiting mechanism can reside in a filter head structure that is connectable to a fluid filter. As shown, the filter apparatus  1600  has a filter head side that is connectable to a fluid filter  1610 . In the example shown, a plate  1614  has a spud  1612  which can threadedly engage the fluid filter  1610 . Seals  1620  seal the fluid filter  1610  to the filter head, e.g. plate  1614 . The torque limiting mechanism includes a spring  1630  between the threaded portion of the spud  1612  and the plate  1614  Once the fluid filter  1610  passes the threaded portion of the spud  1612 , it may freely spin relative to the filter head and spud  1612  (see e.g.  FIG. 31 ). That is, a partially threaded spud  1612  (see “d” in  FIG. 32 ) creates a spud portion that does not include thread, so that once the threads of the fluid filter  1610  clear the threads on the spud  1612 , no over tightening or torqueing occurs. As shown, the threads disengage at a certain point on the spud creating the slippage, free rotation. 
     In some embodiments, a locking device  1640  may be included with the torque limiting mechanism. With reference to the example of  FIG. 32 , the thread locking device  1640  is located on the non-threaded portion of the spud  1612 , and between the threaded portion and plate  1614 . 
       FIGS. 33-36  show other embodiments of a filter apparatus  1700  with a torque limiting mechanism. The torque limiting mechanism can reside on a fluid filter, for instance on the bottom of a housing, such as for example on a drive area. As shown, fluid filter  1710  has a housing  1714 , where the bottom part has a drive area. The drive area has the torque limiting mechanism  1712  constructed around the drive socket. As shown, the torque limiting mechanism  1712  has break away ribs  1716 . In a tightening direction, the ribs are configured to break off at a certain torque, which will limit over tightening. It will be appreciated that the ribs  1716  may not necessarily need to break off, but may also deform or deflect out of the way, similar to for example a cantilever beam, after a predetermined torque is reached or passed. Blocks  1718  allow a tool such as a socket wrench to loosen the fluid filter  1710  from its connection with a filter head. The blocks  1718  can be pushed by the tool in the loosening direction. See e.g.  FIG. 34 .  FIGS. 33 and 34  show a ribs ratchet configuration for inserting a drive and rotating the fluid filter until appropriate torque is reached. 
       FIG. 35  shows another embodiment of a filter apparatus  1800  with a torque limiting mechanism. The torque limiting mechanism can reside on a fluid filter, for instance on the bottom of a housing, such as for example on a drive area. As shown, fluid filter  1810  has a housing  1814 , where the bottom part has a drive area. The drive area has the torque limiting mechanism  1812  constructed as part of the drive socket. As shown, the torque limiting mechanism  1812  is a one-way ratcheting nut that only allows filter removal using a drive on the nut. The ratcheting or slippage is provided by ramps  1816  within the nut and ramps  1818  on the housing  1814 . In some embodiments, the nut  1812  can be constructed to snap on the housing  1814 , and the ramps provide the torque limiting effect once a certain torque has been reached. 
       FIG. 36  shows another embodiment of a filter apparatus  1900  with a torque limiting mechanism. The torque limiting mechanism can reside on a fluid filter, for instance on a nutplate. As shown, fluid filter  1910  has a housing  1914 , where a nutplate  1920  includes the torque limiting mechanism  1912 . As shown, the torque limiting mechanism  1912  is constructed of a floating threaded metal piece that is configured to slide up and snap into place. In one embodiment, the threaded center rotates independent of the housing  1914  and will produce a click or ratchet to provide the torque limiting effect once a certain torque has been reached. For example, the torque limiting mechanism  1912  includes the floating threaded metal piece which may be a nut that has outer surfaces that can contact with side posts of the nutplate, which are shown on two sides of the floating metal piece of  1912 . When the threaded center rotates independent of the housing  1914  it can produce a click or ratchet with the side posts to provide the torque limiting effect once a certain torque has been reached. This design is reflective of the idea that any of the torque limiting designs described can be integrated within the filter itself as opposed to only the block and head assembly. Thus, it will be appreciated that any combination or derivative of the previously proposed concepts are applicable. 
       FIGS. 37-40  show another embodiment of torque limiting device which may be incorporated in a filter apparatus, such as for example a fluid filter  2000 . The torque limiting device is disposed on a spud  2014  included on the fluid filter  2000  and on a center tube  2020  of the fluid filter. In the embodiment shown, the torque limiting device includes a clutch mechanism with radial ramp elements that operate for example similar to those described in  FIGS. 8 and 9 . 
     As shown, the clutch mechanism resides on or proximate the spud  2014  of the fluid filter  2000  and on the center tube  2020 . In the embodiment shown, for example in  FIG. 39 , the fluid filter  2000  has a clutch mechanism with radial ramps  2016 ,  2018  (best shown for example in  FIG. 40 ) that ride on each other to allow slippage in the tightening direction, but not in the loosening direction, e.g. one way ratcheting. The clutch mechanism is located at the spud  2014  of the fluid filter  2000  and on the center tube  2020 . In the embodiment shown, the ramps  2016  on the spud  2014  can engage the ramps  2018  on the center tube  2020  to provide torque limiting. 
     In some embodiments, the center tube  2020  can be an integral part of the nutplate  2010 . The nutplate  2010  may be separately attached to the shell  2012 , having filter media therein, of the fluid filter  2000  (see e.g.  FIG. 39 ). 
     In some embodiments, the spud  2014  may be attached to the nutplate  2010  as a separate piece and can be removed from the nutplate  2010 . The nutplate  2010  in the embodiment shown may also have retaining members  2024  that can connect to and retain the spud  2014  to the nutplate  2010 , but also allow for the spud to rotate relative to the nutplate  2010  as suitable for the interaction of the radial ramps  2016 ,  2018 . As shown, the retaining members  2024  can be catch or barb like structures that allow for example the spud  2014  to snap onto the nutplate  2010 . It will be appreciated that the retaining members  2024  are not meant to be limited to the specific structure shown, as other suitable structures may be employed. 
       FIGS. 41-45  show another embodiment of torque limiting device which may be incorporated in a filter apparatus  2100 . The torque limiting device is disposed on a spud  2114  included on the fluid filter  2100  and on a center tube  2120  of the fluid filter. In the embodiment shown, the torque limiting device includes a clutch mechanism with radial ramp elements that operate for example similar to those described in  FIGS. 37-40 . A difference is that the spud  2114  and center tube  2120  are disposed inside the fluid filter  2100  behind the nutplate  2110  and inside the filter shell  2112 . 
     As shown, the clutch mechanism resides on or proximate the spud  2114  of the fluid filter  2100  and on the center tube  2120 . In the embodiment shown, for example in  FIGS. 43 and 44 , the fluid filter  2100  has a clutch mechanism with radial ramps  2116 ,  2118  (best shown for example in  FIG. 45 ) that ride on each other to allow slippage in the tightening direction, but not in the loosening direction, e.g. one way ratcheting. The clutch mechanism is located at the spud  2114  of the fluid filter  2100  and on the center tube  2120 . In the embodiment shown, the ramps  2116  on the spud  2114  can engage the ramps  2118  on the center tube  2120  to provide torque limiting. In the embodiment shown, the spud  2114  has the radial ramps  2116  on an outer surface of an annular flange of the spud  2114  (see e.g.  FIGS. 41 and 45 ), and the center tube  2120  has radial ramps  2118  on an inner surface of an annular flange of the center tube  2120  (see e.g.  FIGS. 41 and 45 ). In such a configuration, the clutch mechanism can reside inside the fluid filter  2100  so as to minimize the profile of the fluid filter  2100 , using internal space of the fluid filter  2100  that may be available, and that can be used as a retrofit design on existing filtration systems. In the embodiment shown, for example, the spud  2114  is an internal threaded connection. 
     In some embodiments, the center tube  2120  can be an integral part of the nutplate  2110 . The nutplate  2110  may be separately attached to the shell  2112 , having filter media therein, of the fluid filter  2100  (see e.g.  FIGS. 43 and 44 ). In one embodiment, an integral molded seal  2126 , such as rubber may be employed (see  FIG. 43 ), or an o-ring type seal  2128  may be employed to seal filtered fluid exiting the fluid filter  2100  from fluid that has yet to be filtered by the fluid filter  2100 . 
     In some embodiments, the spud  2114  may be attached to the nutplate  2110  as a separate piece and can be removed from the nutplate  2110 . The nutplate  2110  in the embodiment shown may also have retaining members  2124  that can connect to and retain the spud  2114  to the nutplate  2110 , but also allow for the spud to rotate relative to the nutplate  2010  as suitable for the interaction of the radial ramps  2116 ,  2118 . As shown, the retaining members  2124  can be catch or barb like structures that allow for example the spud  2114  to snap onto the nutplate  2110 . It will be appreciated that the retaining members  2124  are not meant to be limited to the specific structure shown, as other suitable structures may be employed. 
     In the embodiment shown, the nutplate  2110  can have various structures integrated therein so as to provide a multi-function nutplate as a single piece component of the fluid filter  2100 , including for example the clutch element radial ramps  2118 , the retaining members  2124 , as well as the inlet and outlet of fluid flow and appropriate sealing. 
     The torque limiting devices described herein, with or without a clutch mechanism, can provide a protective function for a filter, and can activate once a certain torque is reached. A clutch mechanism as described herein can protect a filter from being over tightened and thereby prevent damage to filter components, and can also eliminate or reduce the need for torque measurement of certain filter components. It will be appreciated that the filter apparatus described herein can be useful in various filtration applications, including for example filters that are used in liquid filtration, such as lubrication, fuel and diesel exhaust fluid filtration, as well as filtration applications that do not employ liquid filters, such as filters for crankcase ventilation, and air. It will be appreciated that the filter apparatus herein may be useful in filtration applications other than those just mentioned, and where there may be a general need to prevent over tightening of filter component(s). It also will be appreciated that appropriate seal configurations can be implemented so that dirty and clean areas of the filtration system remain separate so that general leakage can be avoided. 
     The embodiments disclosed in this application are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not limiting. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are intended to be embraced therein.