Power and fault management of electrical components in transportation climate control systems powered by electric vehicles

Abstract

A power management system is disclosed for managing power to a climate control unit (CCU) configured for use with and at least partially powered by an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container. The system includes a power distribution system comprising a power input, a power distributor electrically connected to the power input, a fault detection and isolation circuit electrically connected to the power input, and a connection point for receiving the climate control unit. The connection point is electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit. A power controller is electrically connected to the power distribution system. The power controller includes a processor and a memory.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to power and fault management of an electrically powered accessory component configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container, the electrically powered accessory component being at least partially powered by the electric vehicle. Background Art

[0002] For example, a transport climate control system may include a transport refrigeration system (TRS) and / or a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. A TRS is typically used to control environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) within the cargo space of a transport unit (e.g., a truck, a container (such as a container on a flatbed, an intermodal container, etc.), a boxcar, a semi-tractor, a bus, or other similar transport unit). The TRS can maintain the environmental conditions of the cargo space to maintain the cargo (e.g., produce, frozen foods, pharmaceuticals, etc.). In some embodiments, the transport unit may include an HVAC system to control the climate within the passenger space of the vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to power and fault management of an electrically powered accessory component configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container, the electrically powered accessory component being at least partially powered by the electric vehicle.

[0004] A power management system is disclosed for managing power to a climate control unit (CCU) configured for use with and at least partially powered by an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container. The system includes a power distribution system comprising a power input, a power distributor electrically connected to the power input, a fault detection and isolation circuit electrically connected to the power input, and a connection point for receiving the climate control unit. The connection point is electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit. A power controller is electrically connected to the power distribution system. The power controller includes a processor and a memory.

[0005] An electric vehicle is disclosed, comprising: a battery; and a climate control unit (CCU) electrically connected to the battery and configured to receive power from the battery. The CCU is configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container. A power management system includes a power distribution system comprising a power input, a power distributor electrically connected to the power input, a fault detection and isolation circuit electrically connected to the power input, and a connection point for receiving the climate control unit. The connection point is electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit. A power controller is electrically connected to the power distribution system. The power controller includes a processor and a memory.

[0006] A method for managing power to a climate control unit (CCU) configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container and powered at least in part by the electric vehicle is disclosed. The method includes monitoring, by a power controller, a fault detection and isolation circuit to identify an electrical fault in the climate control unit electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit. The power controller isolates the electrical fault identified during monitoring. The power controller monitors the fault detection and isolation circuit for an indication that the electrical fault no longer exists.

[0007] A power management system is disclosed for managing power to accessory electrical components configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container and powered at least in part by the electric vehicle. The power management system includes a power distribution system. The power distribution system includes a power input, a power distributor electrically connected to the power input, a fault detection and isolation circuit electrically connected to the power input, and a connection point for receiving the accessory electrical components. The connection point is electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit. A power controller is electrically connected to the power distribution system. The power controller includes a processor and a memory.

[0008] In an embodiment, the connection point comprises a plurality of connection points, and the accessory electrical component comprises a plurality of accessory electrical components.

[0009] Also disclosed is an electric vehicle. The electric vehicle includes a battery. Accessory electrical components are electrically connected to the battery and configured to receive power from the battery. The accessory electrical components are configured for use with at least one of the electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container. A power management system includes a power distribution system. The power distribution system includes a power input, a power distributor electrically connected to the power input, a fault detection and isolation circuit electrically connected to the power input, and a connection point for receiving the accessory electrical components. The connection point is electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit. A power controller is electrically connected to the power distribution system. The power controller includes a processor and a memory.

[0010] In an embodiment, the connection point comprises a plurality of connection points, and the accessory electrical component comprises a plurality of accessory electrical components.

[0011] A method for managing power to an electric accessory configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container and powered at least in part by the electric vehicle is disclosed. The method includes monitoring, by a power controller, a fault detection and isolation circuit to identify an electrical fault in an accessory electrical component electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit. The power controller isolates the electrical fault identified during monitoring. The power controller monitors the fault detection and isolation circuit for an indication that the electrical fault no longer exists.

[0012] In an embodiment, the connection point comprises a plurality of connection points, and the accessory electrical component comprises a plurality of accessory electrical components. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part of this disclosure and which illustrate embodiments in which the systems and methods described herein may be practiced.

[0014] Figure 1A Shown is a side view of a truck with a vehicle powered transport refrigeration unit mounted on the front wall, according to an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 1B A schematic cross-sectional side view of a transport refrigeration unit with a multi-temperature transport refrigeration system is shown according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 1C A perspective view of a vehicle having an APU according to an embodiment is shown.

[0017] Figure 1D A front perspective view of an APU is shown according to an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 1E A side view of a truck with a roof-mounted, vehicle-powered transport refrigeration unit is shown in accordance with an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a climate control loop according to an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 3 A schematic diagram illustrating a power management system according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 4 A schematic diagram illustrating a power management system according to another embodiment is shown.

[0022] Figure 5 A flow chart illustrating a method for managing power to electric accessories within an electric vehicle, according to an embodiment.

[0023] Like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The present disclosure generally relates to power and fault management of an electrically powered accessory component configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container, the electrically powered accessory component being at least partially powered by the electric vehicle.

[0025] In an electric vehicle, such as one that includes electrically powered accessory components associated with the vehicle, trailer, or shipping container (e.g., a transport climate control system), a shared power source may be utilized to operate various electrical systems. In some cases, when a fault occurs in a particular electrical system (e.g., one component or multiple components), the entire power system may be shut down or otherwise prevented from operating. As a result, such a fault may prevent a hazard from occurring. For example, when a fault occurs in an electrical system, a complete shutdown including critical systems (including, but not limited to, safety systems) may be problematic. Therefore, isolating an electrical system with a fault within a power distribution system may preserve partial system operation. Similarly, in the event that an energy storage system (e.g., a cell within a battery pack, etc.) experiences a fault, it may be beneficial to isolate the faulty portion of the energy storage system to preserve some power output capacity, thereby enabling the entire system to continue to partially operate. Partial system operation may be particularly advantageous when the electric vehicle is in transport.

[0026] Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a power management system that can monitor fault reporting and control parameters of power users (e.g., accessories) and power distribution systems. In the event of a fault in a particular subsystem, the power controller can disconnect contactors and connections to remove the faulty subsystem and allow the non-faulty system to continue operating. Alternatively, the power management system can perform optional connection of battery modules to isolate the faulty module and allow partial power connection that is still available to the system. Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure can, for example, reduce the situation where a faulty subsystem causes a complete shutdown of functional systems within an electric vehicle.

[0027] An accessory electrical component is an electrically powered accessory configured for use with at least one of a vehicle, a trailer, and a shipping container. Alternatively, an accessory electrical component may be referred to as an electrically powered accessory. An accessory electrical component may be an intelligent electrical component or a simple electrical component. Intelligent electrical components typically include an onboard processor that can provide feedback to a power controller. For example, this feedback may include electrical load information, predicted energy levels, power usage information, health diagnostic information, etc. Simple electrical components typically do not include an onboard processor and may have inactive managed loads. Simple electrical components may not provide feedback information to the power controller.

[0028] The embodiments described below generally illustrate various embodiments of a transport climate control system. It should be understood that the electrically powered accessory components are not limited to a transport climate control system or a climate control unit (CCU) of a transport climate control system. For example, the climate control unit may be a transport refrigeration unit (TRU).

[0029] In an embodiment, for example, the accessory electrical component may be: a crane attached to the vehicle; a cement mixer attached to a truck; one or more food appliances of a food truck; a boom attached to the vehicle; a concrete pump truck; a garbage truck; a fire truck (with electrically powered ladders, pumps, lights, etc.); suitable combinations thereof, etc. The accessory electrical component may require continuous power even when the vehicle's ignition is off or the vehicle is parked, idling, charging, or a combination thereof. Independent of the vehicle's operating mode, the accessory electrical component may require a large amount of power to operate, operate continuously, operate autonomously based on need (e.g., to control temperature / humidity / airflow in a climate-controlled space), or a combination thereof.

[0030] Figure 1A A climate controlled truck 100 is depicted that includes a climate controlled space 105 for carrying cargo and a transport climate control system 110 for providing climate control within the climate controlled space 105. The transport climate control system 110 includes a climate control unit (CCU) 115 mounted to a roof 120 of the truck 100. The transport climate control system 110 may also include, among other components, a climate control circuit (see Figure 2 ), for example, the climate control loop connects a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, and an expansion device to provide climate control within the climate controlled space 105. It will be understood that the embodiments described herein are not limited to climate controlled trucks, but may be applied to any type of transport unit (e.g., a truck, a container (e.g., a container on a flatbed, an intermodal container, an ocean container, etc.), a boxcar, a semi-tractor, a bus, or other similar transport unit), etc.

[0031] The transport climate control system 110 also includes a programmable climate controller 125 and one or more sensors (not shown) configured to measure one or more parameters of the transport climate control system 110 (e.g., ambient temperature outside the truck 100, ambient humidity outside the truck 100, compressor suction pressure, compressor discharge pressure, supply air temperature of air supplied to the climate-controlled space 105 via the climate control unit 115, return air temperature of air returned from the climate-controlled space 105 to the climate control unit 115, humidity within the climate-controlled space 105, etc.) and transmit the parameter data to the climate controller 125. The climate controller 125 is configured to control the operation of the transport climate control system 110, including components of the climate control loop. The climate controller 115 may include a single integrated control unit 126, or may include a distributed network of climate controller elements 126, 127. The number of distributed control elements in a given network may depend on the specific application of the principles described herein.

[0032] Figure 1B A climate controlled straight truck 130 is depicted that includes a climate controlled space 131 for carrying cargo and a transport climate control system 132. The transport climate control system 132 includes a climate control unit 133 mounted on a front wall 134 of the climate controlled space 131. The climate control unit 133 may include, among other components, a climate control circuit (see Figure 2 ), for example, a climate control loop connects a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, and an expansion device to provide climate control within the climate-controlled space 131.

[0033] The transport climate control system 132 also includes a programmable climate controller 135 and one or more sensors (not shown) configured to measure one or more parameters of the transport climate control system 132 (e.g., ambient temperature outside the truck 130, ambient humidity outside the truck 130, compressor suction pressure, compressor discharge pressure, supply air temperature of air supplied to the climate-controlled space 131 via the climate control unit 133, return air temperature of air returning from the climate-controlled space 131 to the climate control unit 133, humidity within the climate-controlled space 131, etc.) and transmit the parameter data to the climate controller 135. The climate controller 135 is configured to control the operation of the transport climate control system 132, including components of the climate control loop. The climate controller 135 may include a single integrated control unit 136, or may include a distributed network of climate controller elements 136, 137. The number of distributed control elements in a given network may depend on the specific application of the principles described herein.

[0034] Figure 1COne embodiment of a climate controlled transport unit 140 is shown attached to a tractor 142. The climate controlled transport unit 140 includes a transport climate control system 145 for a transport unit 150. The tractor 142 is attached to the transport unit 150 and is configured to tow the transport unit 150. Figure 1C The transport unit 150 shown is a trailer.

[0035] The transport climate control system 145 includes a climate control unit 152 that provides environmental control (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) within a climate-controlled space 154 of the transport unit 150. The climate control unit 152 is disposed on a front wall 157 of the transport unit 150. In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the climate control unit 152 may be disposed on the top or another wall of the transport unit 150, for example. The climate control unit 152 includes a climate control circuit (see Figure 2 ), for example, the climate control circuit connects a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, and an expansion device to provide conditioned air into the climate-controlled space 154.

[0036] The transport climate control system 145 also includes a programmable climate controller 156 and one or more sensors (not shown) configured to measure one or more parameters of the transport climate control system 145 (e.g., ambient temperature outside the transport unit 150, ambient humidity outside the transport unit 150, compressor suction pressure, compressor discharge pressure, supply air temperature of air supplied to the climate-controlled space 154 via the climate control unit 152, return air temperature of air returned from the climate-controlled space 154 to the climate control unit 152, humidity within the climate-controlled space 154, etc.) and transmit the parameter data to the climate controller 156. The climate controller 156 is configured to control the operation of the transport climate control system 145, including components of the climate control loop. The climate controller 156 may include a single integrated control unit 158, or may include a distributed network of climate controller elements 158, 159. The number of distributed control elements in a given network may depend on the specific application of the principles described herein.

[0037] Figure 1D Another embodiment of a climate-controlled transport unit 160 is shown. The climate-controlled transport unit 160 includes a multi-zone transport climate control system (MTCS) 162 for a transport unit 164, which may be towed, for example, by a tractor (not shown). It will be understood that the embodiments described herein are not limited to tractor-trailer units, but may be applied to any type of transport unit (e.g., a truck, a container (such as a container on a flatbed, an intermodal container, an ocean container, etc.), a boxcar, a semi-tractor, a bus, or other similar transport unit).

[0038] The MTCS 162 includes a climate control unit 166 and a plurality of remote units 168 that provide environmental control (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) within a climate-controlled space 170 of the transport unit 164. The climate-controlled space 170 can be divided into a plurality of zones 172. The term "zone" refers to a portion of the climate-controlled space 170 separated by walls 174. The climate control unit 166 can serve as a master unit and provide climate control within a first zone 172a of the climate-controlled space 166. The remote unit 168a can provide climate control within a second zone 172b of the climate-controlled space 170. The remote unit 168b can provide climate control within a third zone 172c of the climate-controlled space 170. Thus, the MTCS 162 can be used to separately and independently control the environmental conditions within each of the plurality of zones 172 of the climate-controlled space 162.

[0039] The climate control unit 166 is disposed on the front wall 167 of the transport unit 160. In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the climate control unit 166 may be disposed, for example, on the top or another wall of the transport unit 160. The climate control unit 166 includes a climate control circuit (see Figure 2 ), for example, the climate control circuit connects a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, and an expansion device to provide conditioned air to the climate-controlled space 170. The remote unit 168a is disposed on the ceiling 179 in the second zone 172b, and the remote unit 168b is disposed on the ceiling 179 in the third zone 172c. Each of the remote units 168a, 168b includes an evaporator (not shown) that is connected to the remaining components of the climate control circuit disposed in the climate control unit 166.

[0040] MTCS 162 also includes a programmable climate controller 180 and one or more sensors (not shown) configured to measure one or more parameters of MTCS 162 (e.g., ambient temperature outside transport unit 164, ambient humidity outside transport unit 164, compressor suction pressure, compressor discharge pressure, supply air temperature of air supplied to each of zones 172 via climate control unit 166 and remote unit 168, return air temperature of air returning from each zone 172 to the respective climate control unit 166 or remote unit 168a or 168b, humidity within each zone 118, etc.) and transmit the parameter data to climate controller 180. Climate controller 180 is configured to control the operation of MTCS 162, including components of the climate control loop. Climate controller 180 may include a single integrated control unit 181, or may include a distributed network of climate controller elements 181, 182. The number of distributed control elements in a given network may depend on the specific application of the principles described herein.

[0041] Figure 1E 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle 185 including a transportation climate control system 187 according to an embodiment. The vehicle 185 is a mass transit bus that can carry one or more passengers (not shown) to one or more destinations. In other embodiments, the vehicle 185 can be a school bus, a rail car, a subway, or other commercial vehicle that carries passengers. The vehicle 185 includes a supported climate-controlled space (e.g., a passenger cabin) 189 that can accommodate multiple passengers. The vehicle 185 includes a door 190 located on one side of the vehicle 185. Figure 1E In the illustrated embodiment, a first door 190 is positioned adjacent to the front end of the vehicle 185 and a second door 190 is positioned toward the rear end of the vehicle 185. Each door 190 is movable between an open position and a closed position to selectively allow access to the climate-controlled space 189. The transportation climate control system 187 includes a climate control unit 192 that is attached to a roof 194 of the vehicle 185.

[0042] The climate control unit 170 includes a climate control circuit (see Figure 2), for example, the climate control loop connects a compressor, a condenser, an evaporator, and an expansion device to provide conditioned air to the climate-controlled space 189. The transportation climate control system 187 also includes a programmable climate controller 195 and one or more sensors (not shown) configured to measure one or more parameters of the transportation climate control system 187 (e.g., ambient temperature outside the vehicle 185, space temperature within the climate-controlled space 189, ambient humidity outside the vehicle 185, space humidity within the climate-controlled space 189, etc.) and transmit the parameter data to the climate controller 195. The climate controller 195 is configured to control the operation of the transportation climate control system 187, including the components of the climate control loop. The climate controller 195 may include a single integrated control unit 196, or may include a distributed network of climate controller elements 196, 197. The number of distributed control elements in a given network may depend on the specific application of the principles described herein.

[0043] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of a climate control loop 200 according to some embodiments. The climate control loop 200 generally includes a compressor 205, a condenser 210, an expansion device 215, and an evaporator 220. For example, the compressor 205 can be a scroll compressor, a reciprocating compressor, or the like.

[0044] The climate control loop 200 is exemplary and can be modified to include additional components. For example, in some embodiments, the climate control loop 200 can include an economizer heat exchanger, one or more flow control devices (e.g., valves, etc.), a receiving tank, a dryer, a suction liquid heat exchanger, etc.

[0045] The climate control loop 200 can be generally applied to various systems for controlling environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, air quality, etc.) in a space (commonly referred to as a climate-controlled space). Examples of systems include, but are not limited to, the above-mentioned Figures 1A to 1E Climate control system shown and described.

[0046] The components of the climate control circuit 200 are fluidically connected. The climate control circuit 200 can be specifically configured as a cooling system (e.g., an air conditioning system) capable of operating in a cooling mode. Alternatively, the climate control circuit 200 can be specifically configured as a heat pump system capable of operating in both a cooling mode and a heating / defrosting mode.

[0047] Climate control loop 200 operates according to generally known principles. Climate control loop 200 may be configured to heat or cool a heat transfer fluid or medium (eg, a gas such as, but not limited to, air), in which case climate control loop 200 may generally represent an air conditioner or heat pump.

[0048] During operation, compressor 205 compresses a heat transfer fluid (e.g., a refrigerant) from a relatively low-pressure gas to a relatively high-pressure gas. The relatively high-pressure and relatively high-temperature gas is discharged from compressor 205 and flows through condenser 210. According to commonly known principles, the heat transfer fluid flows through condenser 10 and prevents heat from being dissipated to the heat transfer fluid or medium (e.g., air), thereby cooling the heat transfer fluid. The cooled heat transfer fluid, now in liquid form, flows to expansion device 215 (e.g., an expansion valve). Expansion device 215 reduces the pressure of the heat transfer fluid. As a result, a portion of the heat transfer fluid is converted to a gaseous form. The heat transfer fluid, now in a mixed liquid and gaseous form, flows to evaporator 220. The heat transfer fluid flows through evaporator 220 and absorbs heat from the heat transfer medium (e.g., air), thereby heating the heat transfer fluid and converting it to a gaseous form. The gaseous heat transfer fluid then returns to compressor 205. The above process continues when the heat transfer circuit is operating, for example, in cooling mode (e.g., while compressor 205 is activated).

[0049] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of a power management system 250 according to an embodiment is shown.

[0050] The power management system 250 may generally be used to ensure that if one accessory electrical component within a system of accessory electrical components fails, the remainder of the system of accessory electrical components may continue to operate and the failed accessory electrical component remains isolated from the remainder of the system of accessory electrical components.

[0051] The power management system 250 includes a power distribution system 255 and a controller 260. The controller 260 may alternatively be referred to as a power controller 260. However, the controller 260 may provide not only power level control but also more functionality, such as controlling associated powered accessories (e.g., a climate control unit, etc.). It should be understood that the power controller 260 may be incorporated into a controller of a climate control system, such as within a climate control unit (see FIG. Figures 1A to 1E ), or can be separated from the climate control unit.

[0052] The power distribution system 255 includes a power input 265, a power distributor 270, and a fault detection and isolation circuit 275. A plurality of accessory electrical components 280A to 280C are in electrical communication with the power distributor 270 via the fault detection and isolation circuit 275. Three accessory electrical components 280A to 280C are shown. It should be understood that this number is representative and that the actual number of accessory electrical components 275 may vary to more than three.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, power distributor 270 is electrically connected in series with fault detection and isolation circuit 275 to power input 265, wherein power input 265 is electrically connected to power distributor 270 via a first connection and then electrically connected in series with fault detection and isolation circuit 275. In an embodiment, power input 265 may represent an electrical power take-off (ePTO).

[0054] The power distributor 270 can be used to selectively provide power from the power input 265 to the accessory electrical components 280A to 280C. In an embodiment, the power distributor 270 can control the power supply. In an embodiment, the power distributor 270 can enable connection from the power supply via the power input 265 to the rest of the power management system 250. In an embodiment, the power distributor 270 can control a power converter located between the power supply and the power management system 250.

[0055] The fault detection and isolation circuit 275 may include various hardware for detecting a fault within one of the accessory electrical components 280A-280C and isolating the fault. Although the fault detection and isolation circuit 275 is illustrated as representing both fault detection and isolation, it should be understood that fault detection and fault isolation may be performed separately, for example, via the fault detection circuit and the fault isolation circuit. For example, in one embodiment, the fault detection circuit is dedicated to fault detection and detects a fault in the accessory electrical component 280. In such an embodiment, a fault indicator may be provided to the power distribution controller 270 so that the fault isolation circuit can isolate the faulty accessory electrical component 280.

[0056] In an embodiment, the fault detection and isolation circuit 275 may include one or more of a super junction, a metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET), a solid-state transformer, one or more power electronic transformers, an isolation mechanism, a contactor (which may have multiple contactors connected in series), or a suitable combination thereof. In an embodiment, the fault detection and isolation circuit 275 may perform a fast Fourier transform (FFT) to monitor a signal that is not at a level expected from one of the accessory electrical components 280A to 280C to determine when the one or more accessory electrical components 280A to 280C are operating at a frequency that indicates a fault condition. For example, the power controller 260 knows at which frequency (e.g., 100 Hz) a compressor drive (e.g., in a climate control system) is operating. If an FFT is performed and shows that the binary value of 100 Hz is greater than a threshold, the compressor drive circuit may be alerted to be checked for a possible fault.

[0057] There may be various types of fault detection circuitry within the fault detection and isolation circuitry 275. Examples include, but are not limited to, insulation and / or isolation monitoring circuitry including, but not limited to, DC isolation checking, AC isolation checking, or a suitable combination thereof.

[0058] During a DC isolation check, the fault detection and isolation circuit 275 monitors leakage current from an isolated power source and an isolated reference (e.g., the chassis on a vehicle). Monitoring can be passive, where an established midpoint is monitored to confirm that the voltage signal remains midway between the positive and negative power sources (reference). If the voltage signal is closer to the negative or positive pole than to half the difference, then a fault will result in an imbalance. For example, a 400-volt DC bus has a midpoint of 200 volts DC. If, using a measurement circuit, the difference between the positive pole and the midpoint is 150 volts and the difference between the negative pole and the midpoint is 250 volts, then since the measurement circuit should maintain balance, there is leakage, resulting in a voltage imbalance. Monitoring can be performed using an injected DC signal or superimposing an added charge on an existing voltage and can include an additional test resistor or isolated power source to verify that the charge remains isolated and leaks to the reference. Measuring leakage means sensing current. In embodiments, a DC isolation check is simple and relatively fast.

[0059] In an AC isolation check, the fault detection and isolation circuit 275 monitors the resistance and capacitance between the isolated power source and the isolated reference (e.g., from a high voltage battery to the chassis of a vehicle). Monitoring can be accomplished by injecting an AC signal from the isolated power source being measured or by superimposing an increased charge on the existing voltage. Similar to a DC isolation check, when the charge is increased, the leakage is below a threshold, otherwise an isolation (insulation) fault would occur. The leakage can be measured as the amplitude of the signal at a specific time. Due to the time constant of the system, this may take several minutes to perform.

[0060] To determine the location of the fault, the connection to a specific portion of the circuit network can be disconnected and measurements can be performed (using an isolation monitor). In embodiments, this can help infer which portion of the circuit network has a problem. For example, if the compressor drive output is removed by cutting power and the fault no longer exists, that portion of the circuit should not be connected again and an alert for maintenance can be generated.

[0061] Accessory electrical components 280A-280C generally represent any accessory component that consumes power and can be connected to an electric vehicle. Accessory electrical components 280A-280C can be accessories from an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or can be part of the electric vehicle. Components 280A-280C can be accessories connected by the electric vehicle manufacturer or can be accessory components connected after manufacturing. Depending on the embodiment, accessory electrical components 280A-280C can be components of a climate control system. In embodiments, accessory electrical components 280A-280C can include components that are separate from and unassociated with the climate control system.

[0062] Components 280A-280C can generally be either smart components or simple components. Smart components typically include an onboard processor that can provide feedback to the power distribution system 255. For example, this feedback can include electrical load information, predicted energy levels, power usage information, health diagnostic information, etc. Simple components typically do not include an onboard processor and instead have inactive managed loads. In some embodiments, simple components may not provide feedback information to the power controller 260.

[0063] The power controller 260 includes a processor 285 and a memory 290. The memory may include one or more stored rules, such as temperature control requirements 295 and exception rules 300. The temperature control requirements 295 may include one or more rules related to the operation of the electric vehicle's climate control system. The exception rules 300 may include one or more rules related to the actions to be taken when a fault is detected by the fault detection and isolation circuit 275. For example, these rules may include rules regarding how to handle specific accessory electrical components, or they may include rules establishing relationships between different accessory electrical components. For example, a rule may indicate that if a fault occurs in accessory electrical component 280A, accessory electrical component 280B may continue to operate, but in addition to bypassing accessory electrical component 280A, accessory electrical component 280C should also be bypassed. It should be understood that this is an example, and other relationships may be established. For example, if accessory electrical component 280A has a fault and accessory electrical component 280A could expose users to an electrical safety hazard, a shutdown may be initiated. That is, the exception rules 300 may also define the severity of the fault condition.

[0064] The power controller 260 is electrically connected to a plurality of sensors 305 to 315. The sensors 305 to 315 can provide additional operational information about, for example, the climate control system of the electric vehicle. For example, sensor 305 can represent a sensor configured to indicate whether a door of the electric vehicle is open or closed, sensor 310 can represent a motion detector in a controlled space of the climate control system, and sensor 315 can represent one or more sensors that monitor spatial conditions within the controlled space of the climate control system.

[0065] The power controller 260 may be electrically connected to a user input 320 configured to enable a user to override or deactivate the fault detection and isolation circuit 275. The power controller 260 may also be electrically connected to a network 325 to, for example, provide operational information of the power control system 250, receive updates, etc.

[0066] It should be understood that Figure 3 One or more additional components may be included, such as but not limited to a power manager (such as the following Figure 4 Power manager 330 in ).

[0067] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a power management system 350 according to an embodiment is shown. The power management system 350 includes Figure 3 The power management system 250 in FIG. 2 has similar architecture and functionality. Therefore, similar features are identified by similar numbers. Figure 3 The main difference between the power management system 350 and the power management system 250 is the power distribution system 255 .

[0068] The power distributor 265 of the power distribution system 255 is connected in parallel to a plurality of power distributors 270A to 270C. The power distribution system 255 also includes a plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits 275A to 275C. Figure 4In the power distribution system 255, each of the accessory electrical components 280A to 280C is connected to one of the power distributors 270A to 270C and one of the fault detection and isolation circuits 275A to 275C. As a result, each of the accessory electrical components 280A to 280C can be controlled more specifically. As can be seen from the diagram, the fault detection and isolation circuits 275A to 275C are connected in series and can be sorted so that the smart components are connected at a position with higher priority than the simple components. In an embodiment, the order of connection may not be associated with the priority of each of the accessory electrical components 280A to 280C. That is, the physical connection provides a daisy chain for communication and has nothing to do with establishing priority. It should be understood that the priority can be set in the power controller 260 regardless of the order in which the accessory electrical components 280A to 280C are connected. In an embodiment, even when a communication problem occurs, Figure 3 The power management system 250 in the system can also provide hardware redundancy and the additional capability of isolating faults. Figure 4 This may not be possible in the power management system 350.

[0069] The power controller 260 in the power management system 250 can additionally be electrically connected to an external power manager 330, which can, for example, limit the total system power consumption or the power consumption of the power input 265. The external power manager 330 can include one or more rules for limiting the total power consumption of the power distribution system 255. For example, the power manager 330 can include a rule that recognizes that when the door of the electric vehicle is opened, the power consumption of other auxiliary electrical components is reduced.

[0070] Figure 5 A flow chart illustrating a method 400 for managing power to electric accessories within an electric vehicle according to an embodiment. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The method 400 is generally operable when a power controller 260 in the electric vehicle is used to monitor and handle faults in accessory electrical components connected to the electric vehicle.

[0071] At 405, the power controller 260 monitors the fault detection and isolation circuitry (e.g., the fault detection and isolation circuitry 275) to determine if a fault has occurred in any connected accessory electrical component. In an embodiment, the fault indication may originate directly from the accessory electrical component and be communicated to the power controller 260 via the fault detection and isolation circuitry 275. In this case, the accessory electrical component may be an intelligent component. In another embodiment, the fault indication may be determined by the fault detection and isolation circuitry 275. Such an embodiment may indicate a fault in a simple component.

[0072] At 410, the power controller 260 may take action to isolate the fault. The action taken at 410 may depend on one or more exception rules stored in the memory of the power controller 260. Typically, isolation involves shutting down the faulty accessory electrical component. In embodiments, if the accessory electrical component is an intelligent component, it may be capable of disabling or shutting down only the problematic aspect that caused the fault. In embodiments, at 410, when parallel wiring is used to enable load reduction (rather than disabling or shutting down), the accessory electrical component may have a reduced load or voltage, or use alternative connection paths and wiring. At 410, in addition to isolating the fault, a flag for service may be set (or a notification generated). The event may also be timestamped. For example, a human-machine interface (HMI), a diagnostic light, a service tool, a wireless service information tool, or a suitable combination thereof may be used to notify the operator / owner / dealer / OEM of the need for service. In embodiments, information regarding the problem may be transmitted for troubleshooting, to determine why the problem occurred, and to prevent future problems. In embodiments, this may aid in fault tracing via data logging.

[0073] At 415, the power controller 260 continues to monitor the fault detection and isolation circuit and the connected accessory electrical components to determine if additional faults exist or to indicate that the fault no longer exists. The continued monitoring following a fault may depend on the type of accessory electrical component where the fault occurred at 410. For example, for an intelligent accessory electrical component, the accessory electrical component may be taken offline at 410, and at 415, the power controller 260 may poll the controller of the accessory electrical component to determine if the accessory electrical component can be restarted. For a simple accessory electrical component, the accessory electrical component may be taken offline at 410, and at 415, the power controller 260 may attempt to bring the accessory electrical component back online.

[0074] aspect

[0075] Note that any of aspects 1 to 7 can be combined with any of aspects 8 to 16, 17 to 20, 21 to 27, 28 to 36, or 37 to 40. Any of aspects 8 to 16 can be combined with any of aspects 17 to 20, 21 to 27, 28 to 36, or 37 to 40. Any of aspects 17 to 20 can be combined with any of aspects 21 to 27, 28 to 36, or 37 to 40. Any of aspects 21 to 27 can be combined with any of aspects 28 to 36, or 37 to 40. Any of aspects 28 to 36 can be combined with any of aspects 37 to 40.

[0076] Aspect 1. A power management system for managing power to accessory electrical components, the accessory electrical components being configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a transport container and being at least partially powered by the electric vehicle, the power management system comprising a power distribution system and a power controller, the power distribution system comprising a power input, a power distributor electrically connected to the power input, a fault detection and isolation circuit electrically connected to the power input, and a connection point for receiving the accessory electrical components, the connection point being electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit, the power controller being electrically connected to the power distribution system, the power controller comprising a processor and a memory.

[0077] Aspect 2. The power management system according to aspect 1, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit is a single fault detection and isolation circuit connected in parallel with the plurality of connection points.

[0078] Aspect 3. An electric power management system according to any one of Aspects 1 or 2, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit includes a plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits corresponding to the plurality of connection points, so that there is a one-to-one relationship between the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits and the plurality of connection points.

[0079] Aspect 4. A power management system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 3, wherein the connection point includes multiple connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit includes one or more isolators, which are configured to selectively enable or disable power from the power distributor to the multiple connection points.

[0080] Aspect 5. A power management system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 4, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the power controller selectively enables or disables power from the power distributor to the plurality of connection points in response to a fault identified in the fault detection and isolation circuit.

[0081] Aspect 6. A power management system according to any one of Aspects 1 to 5, wherein the connection point includes multiple connection points, and wherein the power distributor includes multiple power distributors connected in parallel, and the fault detection and isolation circuit includes multiple fault detection and isolation circuits connected to the multiple power distributors, the multiple fault detection and isolation circuits correspond to the multiple connection points so that there is a one-to-one relationship between the multiple fault detection and isolation circuits and the multiple connection points, and the multiple fault detection and isolation circuits are connected in series.

[0082] Aspect 7. The power management system according to any one of aspects 1 to 6, wherein the power controller is electrically connected to a user input.

[0083] Aspect 8. An electric vehicle comprising: a battery; accessory electrical components electrically connected to the battery and configured to receive power from the battery, wherein the accessory electrical components are configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a transport container; and a power management system comprising a power distribution system and a power controller, the power distribution system comprising a power input electrically connected to the battery, a power distributor electrically connected to the power input, a fault detection and isolation circuit electrically connected to the power input, and accessory electrical components electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit via a connection point, the power controller electrically connected to the power distribution system, the power controller comprising a processor and a memory.

[0084] Aspect 9. The electric vehicle according to aspect 8, further comprising a power manager including one or more rules for limiting the amount of power that can be drawn from the battery.

[0085] Aspect 10. An electric vehicle according to any one of aspects 8 or 9, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit is a single fault detection and isolation circuit connected in parallel with the plurality of connection points.

[0086] Aspect 11. An electric vehicle according to any one of Aspects 8 to 10, wherein the connection point includes multiple connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit includes multiple fault detection and isolation circuits corresponding to the multiple connection points, so that there is a one-to-one relationship between the multiple fault detection and isolation circuits and the multiple connection points.

[0087] Aspect 12. An electric vehicle according to any one of Aspects 8 to 11, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit includes one or more isolators configured to selectively enable or disable power from the power distributor to the plurality of connection points.

[0088] Aspect 13. An electric vehicle according to any one of Aspects 8 to 12, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the power controller selectively enables or disables power from the power distributor to the plurality of connection points in response to a fault identified in the fault detection and isolation circuit.

[0089] Aspect 14. An electric vehicle according to any one of Aspects 8 to 13, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the power distributor includes a plurality of power distributors connected in parallel, and the fault detection and isolation circuit includes a plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits connected to the plurality of power distributors, the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits correspond to a plurality of connection points such that there is a one-to-one relationship between the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits and the plurality of connection points, and the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits are connected in series.

[0090] Aspect 15. The electric vehicle according to any one of aspects 8 to 14, further comprising a user input electrically connected to the power controller.

[0091] Aspect 16. The electric vehicle according to any one of aspects 8 to 15, wherein the electric vehicle comprises a vehicle, a trailer, or a transport container.

[0092] Aspect 17. A method for managing power to an electric accessory, the electric accessory being configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a transport container and being at least partially powered by the electric vehicle, the method comprising monitoring, by a power controller, a fault detection and isolation circuit to identify an electrical fault in an accessory electrical component electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit; isolating, by the power controller, the electrical fault identified in the monitoring; and monitoring, by the power controller, the fault detection and isolation circuit for an indication indicating that the electrical fault no longer exists.

[0093] Aspect 18. The method according to aspect 17 further includes monitoring for other electrical faults.

[0094] Aspect 19. The method according to any one of aspects 17 or 18, wherein isolating includes shutting down the attached electrical component having the electrical fault.

[0095] Aspect 20. The method of aspect 19, further comprising attempting to bring the accessory electrical component having the electrical fault back online.

[0096] Aspect 21. A power management system for managing power to a climate control unit (CCU), the climate control unit (CCU) being configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a transport container and being at least partially powered by the electric vehicle, the power management system comprising a power distribution system and a power controller, the power distribution system comprising a power input, a power distributor electrically connected to the power input, a fault detection and isolation circuit electrically connected to the power input, and a connection point for receiving the climate control unit, the connection point being electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit, the power controller being electrically connected to the power distribution system, the power controller comprising a processor and a memory.

[0097] Aspect 22. The power management system according to aspect 21, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit is a single fault detection and isolation circuit connected in parallel with the plurality of connection points.

[0098] Aspect 23. A power management system according to any one of Aspects 21 or 22, wherein the connection point includes multiple connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit includes multiple fault detection and isolation circuits corresponding to the multiple connection points, so that there is a one-to-one relationship between the multiple fault detection and isolation circuits and the multiple connection points.

[0099] Aspect 24. A power management system according to any one of Aspects 21 to 23, wherein the connection point includes multiple connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit includes one or more isolators configured to selectively enable or disable power from the power distributor to the multiple connection points.

[0100] Aspect 25. A power management system according to any one of Aspects 21 to 24, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the power controller selectively enables or disables power from the power distributor to the plurality of connection points in response to a fault identified in the fault detection and isolation circuit.

[0101] Aspect 26. A power management system according to any one of Aspects 21 to 25, wherein the connection point includes multiple connection points, and wherein the power distributor includes multiple power distributors connected in parallel, and the fault detection and isolation circuit includes multiple fault detection and isolation circuits connected to the multiple power distributors, the multiple fault detection and isolation circuits correspond to the multiple connection points so that there is a one-to-one relationship between the multiple fault detection and isolation circuits and the multiple connection points, and the multiple fault detection and isolation circuits are connected in series.

[0102] Aspect 27. The power management system according to any one of aspects 21 to 26, wherein the power controller is electrically connected to a user input.

[0103] Aspect 28. An electric vehicle comprising: a battery; a climate control unit (CCU) electrically connected to the battery and configured to receive power from the battery, wherein the climate control unit is configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a transport container; and a power management system comprising a power distribution system and a power controller, the power distribution system comprising a power input electrically connected to the battery, a power distributor electrically connected to the power input, a fault detection and isolation circuit electrically connected to the power input, and the climate control unit electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit via a connection point, the power controller electrically connected to the power distribution system, the power controller comprising a processor and a memory.

[0104] Aspect 29. The electric vehicle of aspect 28, further comprising a power manager including one or more rules for limiting the amount of power that can be drawn from the battery.

[0105] Aspect 30. An electric vehicle according to any one of aspects 28 or 29, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit is a single fault detection and isolation circuit connected in parallel with the plurality of connection points.

[0106] Aspect 31. An electric vehicle according to any one of Aspects 28 to 30, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit includes a plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits corresponding to the plurality of connection points, so that there is a one-to-one relationship between the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits and the plurality of connection points.

[0107] Aspect 32. An electric vehicle according to any one of Aspects 28 to 31, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit includes one or more isolators configured to selectively enable or disable power from the power distributor to the plurality of connection points.

[0108] Aspect 33. An electric vehicle according to any one of Aspects 28 to 32, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the power controller selectively enables or disables power from the power distributor to the plurality of connection points in response to a fault identified in the fault detection and isolation circuit.

[0109] Aspect 34. An electric vehicle according to any one of Aspects 28 to 33, wherein the connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the power distributor includes a plurality of power distributors connected in parallel, and the fault detection and isolation circuit includes a plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits connected to the plurality of power distributors, the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits correspond to a plurality of connection points such that there is a one-to-one relationship between the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits and the plurality of connection points, and the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits are connected in series.

[0110] Aspect 35. The electric vehicle according to any one of aspects 28 to 34, further comprising a user input electrically connected to the power controller.

[0111] Aspect 36. The electric vehicle of any one of aspects 28 to 35, wherein the electric vehicle comprises a vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container.

[0112] Aspect 37. A method for managing power to a climate control unit (CCU) configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container and at least partially powered by the electric vehicle, the method comprising monitoring, by a power controller, a fault detection and isolation circuit to identify an electrical fault in the climate control unit electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit; isolating, by the power controller, the electrical fault identified in the monitoring; and monitoring, by the power controller, the fault detection and isolation circuit for an indication that the electrical fault no longer exists.

[0113] Aspect 38. The method according to aspect 37 further includes monitoring for other electrical faults.

[0114] Aspect 39. The method of any one of aspects 37 or 38, wherein isolating comprises shutting down the climate control unit having the electrical fault.

[0115] Aspect 40. The method of aspect 39, further comprising attempting to bring the climate control unit having the electrical fault back online.

[0116] The terms used in this specification are intended to describe particular embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the terms "a," "an," and "the" also include plural forms. The terms "include" and / or "comprise," when used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components.

[0117] With respect to the foregoing description, it should be understood that changes may be made in detail, particularly in the materials used and the shape, size, and arrangement of parts without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. This specification and the described embodiments are exemplary only, with the true scope and spirit of the present disclosure being indicated by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A power management system for managing power to a climate control unit (CCU) configured for use with and at least partially powered by at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container, the power management system comprising: An electric power distribution system, comprising: Power input, a power distributor electrically connected to the power input, a fault detection and isolation circuit electrically connected to the power input, and a connection point for receiving the climate control unit, the connection point being electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit; and a power controller electrically connected to the power distribution system, the power controller comprising a processor and a memory, wherein the connection point comprises a plurality of connection points, and wherein the power distributor comprises a plurality of power distributors connected in parallel, and the fault detection and isolation circuit comprises a plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits connected to the plurality of power distributors, the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits corresponding to the plurality of connection points, such that there is a one-to-one relationship between the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits and the plurality of connection points, and the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits are connected in series.

2. The power management system according to claim 1, wherein: The connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit is a single fault detection and isolation circuit connected in parallel with the plurality of connection points.

3. The power management system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: The connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit includes one or more isolators configured to selectively enable or disable power from the power distributor to the plurality of connection points.

4. The power management system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: The connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the power controller selectively enables or disables power from the power distributor to the plurality of connection points in response to a fault identified in the fault detection and isolation circuit.

5. The power management system according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein: The power controller is electrically connected to a user input.

6. An electric vehicle comprising: Battery; a climate control unit (CCU) electrically connected to the battery and configured to receive power from the battery, wherein the climate control unit is configured for use with at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container; and A power management system, the power management system comprising: An electric power distribution system, comprising: a power input electrically connected to the battery, a power distributor electrically connected to the power input, a fault detection and isolation circuit electrically connected to the power input, and the climate control unit being electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit via a connection point; and a power controller electrically connected to the power distribution system, the power controller comprising a processor and a memory, wherein the connection point comprises a plurality of connection points, and wherein the power distributor comprises a plurality of power distributors connected in parallel, and the fault detection and isolation circuit comprises a plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits connected to the plurality of power distributors, the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits corresponding to the plurality of connection points, such that there is a one-to-one relationship between the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits and the plurality of connection points, and the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits are connected in series.

7. The electric vehicle of claim 6, further comprising a power manager containing one or more rules for limiting the amount of power that can be drawn from the battery.

8. The electric vehicle according to any one of claims 6 and 7, wherein: The connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit is a single fault detection and isolation circuit connected in parallel with the plurality of connection points.

9. The electric vehicle according to any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein: The connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the fault detection and isolation circuit includes one or more isolators configured to selectively enable or disable power from the power distributor to the plurality of connection points.

10. The electric vehicle according to any one of claims 6 to 7, wherein: The connection point includes a plurality of connection points, and wherein the power controller selectively enables or disables power from the power distributor to the plurality of connection points in response to a fault identified in the fault detection and isolation circuit.

11. The electric vehicle of any one of claims 6 to 7, further comprising a user input electrically connected to the power controller.

12. A method for managing power to a climate control unit (CCU) configured for use with and at least partially powered by at least one of an electric vehicle, a trailer, or a shipping container, the method comprising: monitoring, by the power controller, a fault detection and isolation circuit electrically connected to the power input to identify an electrical fault in the climate control unit electrically connected to the fault detection and isolation circuit via a connection point; isolating, by the power controller, the electrical fault identified in the monitoring; as well as monitoring the fault detection and isolation circuit by the power controller for an indication that the electrical fault no longer exists, wherein the connection point comprises a plurality of connection points, and wherein the power input member is electrically connected to a power distributor, the power distributor comprises a plurality of power distributors connected in parallel, and the fault detection and isolation circuit comprises a plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits connected to the plurality of power distributors, the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits correspond to the plurality of connection points, such that there is a one-to-one relationship between the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits and the plurality of connection points, and the plurality of fault detection and isolation circuits are connected in series.

13. The method of claim 12, further comprising monitoring for other electrical faults.

14. The method according to any one of claims 12 and 13, wherein The isolation includes shutting down the climate control unit having the electrical fault.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising attempting to bring the climate control unit having the electrical fault back online.

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